Asthma: how to care naturally?
Written by: Loris Vitry (holistic coach)
Validated by: Cathy Maillot (Osteopath)
Caution: If you have any medical questions or concerns, please speak to your doctor. Even if the articles on this site are based on scientific studies, they do not replace professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment.
Asthma is one of the most chronic lungs and inflammatory diseases in the world.
It may result from an allergy or an infection; this disease has far from negligible consequences.
It usually results in a regular and sometimes intense cough followed by wheezing in some patients.
The leading causes of this disease are well known, contrary to real alternatives to treat it.
If you don’t consult a doctor or go to a pharmacy, you can opt for natural remedies.
We offer some insights in this article.
Opt for an adapted diet
Asthma is usually accompanied by a condition called metabolic acidosis, which is characterized by a high level of acids in the human body.
Reducing the level of these toxins amounts to fighting asthma.
A diet rich in potassium and magnesium is also recommended to reduce asthma.
According to scientific studies, a person who consumes little foods rich in potassium and magnesium doesn’t breathe as well as the one who consumes more.
It implies that people who have asthma could consume more quantity of potassium and magnesium to help fight the disease by eating fruits, vegetables, non-fatty foods, etc.
Adopting the Buteyko method
Developed by Dr. Buteyko, this so-called breathing method is mainly characterized by relaxation exercises.
The Buteyko method also consists of educational exercises on asthma as well as some breathing techniques.
In reality, this method aims to reduce hyperventilation, one of the causes of asthma.
Results from several studies show that many asthmatics have found relief with the Buteyko method.
Even if the method developed by Dr. Buteyko remains unrecognized by science, it is still an option, at least, to reduce stress.
It is, above all a safe method.
However, it is recommended to consult a professional practitioner of this method to avoid the risk of worsening the disease, especially for pregnant women and new mothers.
Use the Coleus
The Coleus, a tropical plant, is from the Lamiaceae family, whose antispasmodic properties are used to treat asthma.
Widely used in Asia to calm cardiovascular problems, this herb is useful in correcting respiratory issues.
Forskolin extracted from Coleus have active properties that fight against asthma.
They are both vasodilators, hypotensive, and bronchodilators.
However, taking Coleus is strongly discouraged for pregnant women as well as those who are breastfeeding.
Use the leaves of Boswellia serrata
Used for the production of Indian incense, Boswellia is one of the potential solutions to treat asthma naturally.
Also called Indian olibanum, this plant has fairly powerful anti-inflammatory properties.
Boswellia serrata can inhibit the synthesis of leukotrienes in the body, sources of inflammation.
Leukotrienes are the chemical components responsible for the crisis observed with asthmatics.
Boswellia serrata resin also strengthens the function of the intestinal mucosa while improving rheumatoid arthritis.
Although it is not contraindicated, it is advisable to point out that Boswellia serrata should be used with caution.
This plant is not recommended for pregnant women.
Consume fatty fish
Eating fatty fish such as salmon, sardines, or trout can help reduce the signs of asthma.
This diet (Mediterranean diet) is much more recommended for children with asthma.
Indeed, a study carried out on a hundred children aged 5 to 12 years old revealed that they were relieved of asthma after 6 months by following a Mediterranean diet.
During this period, the children noticed an excellent improvement in their pulmonary function, which may be linked to consuming oily fish, as they contain omega-3 fatty acids that have anti-inflammatory properties.
In addition to improving lung function, fatty fish also help reduce wheezing, especially in children under 5.
Opt for psychotherapy
Psychotherapy has proven to be one of the best methods for treating asthma.
Indeed, according to several studies, this method is capable of correcting signs of asthma, including stress and wheezing.
Although this option remains possible, it requires personal motivations of the patient as well as a considerable investment in the process.
The patient will have to show attention and obedience to the recommendations put forward by the psychotherapist.
Follow an essential oil treatment
Although it is not a well-known method, essential oils are still an excellent alternative for treating asthma.
Whether used in the form of herbal tea or food supplements, these oils have proven their effectiveness in several cases of asthma.
The essential oils improve breathing thanks to their anti-inflammatory properties.
Six essential oils can reduce the expression of cyclooxygenase, one of the primary sources of asthma.
These are essential oils:
- bergamot;
- cloves;
- thyme;
- fennel;
- pink;
- and those of eucalyptus.
If you opt for one of these essential oils, beware of respecting the dosage as well as the treatment method.
Strengthen fiber intake
Fiber supplements are also a solution for naturally treating asthma.
These supplements contain properties capable of correcting the symptoms of asthma by stimulating the intestinal microbiota.
Results from studies by Australian researchers show that some patients have been relieved after taking inulin supplements daily.
More specifically, this soluble fiber had a positive impact on the intestinal microbiota as well as lung function.
It helps control asthma and dramatically decrease inflammation in the airways.
You will find fibers in bananas, leeks, chicory, onions, endive, etc.
You now have a variety of remedies that can help you find relief from your asthma.
For sure, you will find in this list, the treatment that best suits your body.
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