How to Combat Asthma

Asthma is a respiratory disorder resulting in difficulty in breathing. During an attack, the airways contract allowing less oxygen in and less carbon dioxide out of the body. The allergic reaction caused by a trigger also produces fluid or swelling of the airways

The causes of an attack can be as follows: allergic reaction to irritants such as dust, moulds, dust mites and industrial pollution; a reaction to cold temperatures; strenuous exercise; emotional factors causing depression of the immune system leading to an autoimmune attack on the lungs; an allergic reaction to certain foods.

There are lots of nasty side effects associated with drugs such as cortisone or bronchodilators prescribed by some doctors for asthma, causing a dependency   on them for the patient being treated. Muscle relaxants also have negative effects on the body. It is therefore best to seek natural treatments in order to prevent or respond to an attack.

Placing a slice of onion on the tongue has been proven over time to be one of the best things a person can do in response to an asthmatic attack. This method is so potent that some minor attacks can be stopped within minutes by simply sucking on a slice of onion. Persons susceptible to attacks can build up their defences by paying particular attention to diet and food supplements.

Asthmatics generally have low blood sugar levels, and therefore should strive to normalise blood sugar by avoiding foods high in carbohydrates, sugars or foods which are highly processed. Avoid wheat products, processed canned foods, dairy products and foods with a high sugar or salt content. Have a test done for food allergies, and avoid anything found to cause a reaction.

Sulphur is helpful for people suffering from asthma. Good food sources of the mineral are fish protein, eggs, onions and garlic. Other foods good for this disorder are black and red radish, cabbage, lettuce, carrots, dried beans, sorrel, sour fruits such as pineapple and berries, and barley water.

The following herbs can also be taken as a preventative measure for the reasons stated: chervil helps combat asthma and sore throats; parsley helps rid the body of toxins and purifies the blood; blessed thistle strengthens the lungs and loosens mucous and phlegm; golden seal reduces swelling; and lobelia acts as an expectorant and relives spams. 

Food supplements can be taken to avoid deficiencies of the following for the reasons stated: magnesium citrate, 500mg twice daily, acts as a muscle relaxant; vitamin B6, 250mg twice daily, acts as an antihistamine; vitamin A, 25,000 IU once daily, helps fight respiratory infections; and vitamin D, 2,000 IU once daily (or fish liver oils in lieu of), helps prevent infections especially when combined with vitamins A or C.  

It is also prudent for asthmatics to drink at least four glasses of water on a daily basis. Drinking an adequate amount of water daily cleanses the whole body and encourages it to expel all waste products and toxins as their retention in the body could be harmful to health in general and the respiratory system in particular.  

The average person in the street uses only about 50% of lung capacity because of improper breathing practices. Yoga type breathing is recommended for asthmatics in order to lessen the problems associated with their condition. Mild aerobic exercises, such as walking, jogging or swimming, on a daily basis are also beneficial.

If you are asthmatic and a smoker, it is best to give up this unhealthy habit as it interferes with the respiratory organs; it is also best to avoid all secondary smoke arising from other people as far as this is possible.

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