Asthma

Description (symptoms, prevention)

Asthma is a serious and chronic (long-term) medical condition that affects nearly 300 million people across the world. It is characterized by an inflammation of the bronchial tubes of the lungs, which are the main airways that bring in fresh oxygen to the body. The inflammation produces excess mucus in the lungs and causes the bronchial tubes to tighten, making it difficult to breathe.

Asthma is an ancient Greek word meaning ‘panting or short drawn breath’. It is an allergic condition resulting from the reaction of the body to one or more allergens, and is the most troublesome of respiratory diseases. An asthma patient gets frequent attacks of breathlessness, in between which he may even be completely normal.

treatment of asthma is dominated by attempts to reduce the patient’s exposure to any possible triggers of asthma attacks. There include airborne particles such as dust mites, pollen, mold, and smoke particles. In addition, cold air can cause a sudden constriction of the bronchial tubes, so patients are advised to maintain a warm room temperature. Many people are also allergic to certain drugs, chemicals, or foods such as peanuts and shellfish; these allergens need to be identified and avoided. When it comes to diet, hot peppers help (they dilate the bronchial tubes) which stimulate fluids to thin out the mucous, making it easier to cough up, clearing the lungs.

Diet

Eating healthy is the most important asthma remedy. A healthy meal comprises of green vegetables, fresh fruits, juices and white meat. Milk products, seafood and eggs should be avoided as they are known to be one of the major causes of asthma attack.

Herbs

mullen and sage, we use a tea infuser and he basically drinks it once a day.

A few herbal remedies that have shown some promise in treating asthma symptoms include butterbur, dried ivy and ginkgo extract. Blends of different types of herbs are commonly used in traditional Chinese, Indian and Japanese medicine. However, more studies are needed to determine how well herbal remedies and preparations work for asthma.

elecampane

Therapies

Anise is very effective in clearing congestion in the lungs and the respiratory tracts, in conditions like asthma, bronchitis etc.

Breathing techniques. Examples include the Buteyko breathing technique, the Papworth method, and yoga breathing (pranayama). These exercises may reduce the amount of medication you need to keep your asthma symptoms under control. Yoga classes increase fitness and reduce stress, which may help with asthma as well.

Acupuncture. This technique involves placing very thin needles at strategic points on your body. It’s safe and generally painless.

Relaxation techniques. Techniques such as meditation, biofeedback, hypnosis and progressive muscle relaxation may help with asthma by reducing tension and stress.