What is Asthma?
Asthma is a common disease which affects the lungs. Asthmatic patients suffer from constricted and congested air passages which results in an impaired ability to breathe. Symptoms of asthma include difficulty in breathing, wheezing, tightness in the chest, and coughing.
Airways constrict when they are inflamed and irritated by common triggers. These triggers cause asthma attacks. Triggers can include a clammy or arid environment, or even stress and anxiety. Allergy and asthma go hand in hand. Common allergens are also the most common inducers. They cause airways to inflame and trigger attacks. These include pollens, mold, dust mites, animal hair, and feces.
Conventional asthma remedies and medication involves the use of steroids. These tend to be very strong and have many side effects, leaving the body weak. Many asthma patients opt to enhance recovery by opting for complementary natural cures.
What are the natural cures for asthma?
Natural cures for asthma help ease symptoms and decrease the frequency of attacks.
Figs are a good asthma remedy. They are very effective in removing phlegm from the respiratory tracts, allowing for less congestion and easier breathing. Soak a couple of dry figs in a cup of water and eat them in the morning on an empty stomach.
Coffee is another natural cure for asthma. It helps to open constricted airways, allowing easier breathing. Coffee contains theophylline and theobromine which help relax and open up the airways. If you feel uneasy, a few sips of coffee will help soothe the system.
Another great asthma remedy is apple juice. Drinking apple juice twice a day, truly does keep the doctor way! Apple juice contains phytochemicals which ease inflammation in the trachea; this relaxes the respiratory system and also reduces the number of attacks. Pineapple juice also helps ease symptoms.
Cranberries are considered to be natural vasodilators, that is, they free congestion in the bronchial tubes and aid breathing. Boil a bowl of cranberries, strain and puree. Refrigerate the puree. When you feel the onset of an asthma attack, mix two spoons of the pulp in a cup of warm water and drink. This will ease symptoms.
Honey is also very beneficial for asthma patients. Honey soothes the windpipes and lungs. It also thins phlegm from the respiratory tract and so eases congestion. A spoon of honey goes a long way in maintaining health. You can also mix half a spoon of cinnamon powder along with a spoon of honey. Have this spoonful before going to bed.
Garlic is a traditional natural cure for asthma. It boasts of many healing attributes including anti-inflammatory, antiviral and anti-fungal properties. It is recommended to chew on a raw garlic clove every day. This prevents onset of symptoms and reduces the number of attacks.
Vapor rubs can go a long way in easing pain. They contain menthol and eucalyptus, both of which aid breathing. Rubbing them on the chest and back helps open airways and relieve congestion. Inhaling steam with a vapor rub or eucalyptus essential oil also helps.
How are these remedies beneficial?
Natural cures for asthma are not substitutes for allopathic asthma medications. However, they do facilitate over all well being by reducing the frequency of attacks and asthma symptoms. It also reduces reliance on pumps and steroids, boosts immunity and reducing discomfort.