The Best Natural Asthma Remedies

Asthma can be classified into two categories: allergic and nonallergic. Allergic asthma results from exposure to allergens (often the same allergens that cause hay fever). Common triggers for allergic asthma include

• dust mites
• animal dander
• pollen
• mold

Other physical triggers can set off asthma symptoms, too, but are considered nonallergic. These include

• chemicals
• pollution
• tobacco smoke
• chest colds
• strenuous physical exercise
• weather changes

Nonphysical triggers such as stress can also exacerbate asthma. No matter the classification of asthma, the effects can be distressing.

Conventional treatments

The most common treatment for an acute asthma attack is an inhaler, a hand-held device that quickly de-escalates the inflammatory response by the body. There are also long-term daily medications to ease airway problems.

However, in addition to appropriate medication, there are many natural asthma remedies you can use on a daily basis to help control symptoms.

Nutritional recommendations

Focus on consuming foods with anti-inflammatory properties, such as wild salmon and raw fruits and vegetables. Antioxidant-rich foods such as blueberries, pomegranate, or pumpkin can help clean up free radicals causing damage to the lungs. Consider decreasing foods containing sulphites; these preservatives can trigger asthma symptoms in some asthmatics.

Try cooking with the following herbs and spices, which may have airway-relaxing properties:

• thyme
• ginger
• turmeric
• cinnamon

Aged garlic extract has also shown promise. However, be aware that spices such as cinnamon and garlic can trigger allergic asthma symptoms in some people.

Environmental considerations

Reducing exposure to environmental triggers remains a top priority for those suffering from asthma.

Outdoor precautions

During the summer, levels of some air pollutants rise, creating difficulty for asthma sufferers. In addition, hot weather and thunderstorms may trigger symptoms in some people. It’s a good idea to avoid exercising during the hottest part of the day and to plan outdoor activities for earlier in the day when air quality is usually better.

Indoor action plan

Around the home, identify and remove environmental triggers that may be causing asthmatic episodes.

• Have vents and air filters cleaned throughout the year.
• Switch scented candles for pure beeswax tealights.
• Opt for natural laundry and dish detergents that do not contain fragrance or colours.
• Use plants to help clean and filter the air, and consider using essential oil diffusers (see sidebar for suggested oils and precautions).

Oral hygiene

A recent study found a link between gum disease and severe asthma. Study subjects with periodontal infection were five times more likely to have airway inflammation. Regular flossing and brushing is recommended to help mitigate this—but make sure the toothbrush is helping, not harming.

“A clean toothbrush is a big step toward excellent lung health,” says Jenny Jun, ND. “Often people use the same toothbrush for too long, which can accumulate a lot of junk.”

Toothbrushes should be replaced every three to four months.

Stress management

If stress exacerbates your or your child’s asthma, take steps to reduce stress. Write thoughts down in a journal or listen to relaxing music during the day. Consider joining a therapy group for support and healing techniques. Some nervousness can be alleviated in children by having easy access to their inhaler and knowing a team of family and friends is nearby.

Alternative techniques

“The lungs are related to sadness in Chinese medicine theory,” says Jun. If this rings true for you or your child, seek a counsellor or alternative practitioner to help work through these feelings.

Breathing exercises may help with asthma symptoms, as may acupuncture and yoga. A recent review of studies found that in 10 out of 15 studies, there was significant improvement in asthma sufferers because of yoga.