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Herbs are often used as safer alternatives to inhaled steroids and other anti-inflammatory medications for treating asthma. Numerous scientific studies support the effectiveness of a number of herbs that have been used for centuries for treating asthma. These herbs work by strengthening the immune system, reducing constriction of the airway muscles and clearing the airways so that you can breathe with ease.
In Ayurveda, the gum resin of Boswellia serrata, a tree native to the Indian subcontinent, is recommended for alleviating asthma attack. The gum resin contains powerful anti-inflammatory compounds that inhibit production of inflammatory molecules called leukotrienes that trigger asthma.
Gingko biloba is another effective herbal remedy for asthma. Ginkgolides, the key bioactive constituents of the gingko biloba leaves, by reducing inflammation of the airways and constriction of the bronchioles, help in easing breathing.
In the traditional medicines of China and Japan, reishi mushroom is widely recommended for treating respiratory problems. It contains compounds with antihistamine property that help in treating asthma triggered by allergy. It is also a source of anti-inflammatory compounds that help in reducing inflammation of the airways.
In the traditional Indian medicine, picrorhiza, a plant found in the Himalayan Mountains of India and Nepal, are used for treating allergy, asthma and bronchitis. It helps in reducing inflammation and strengthens the immune system. Regular intake of the powdered root of picrorhiza helps in improving lung function.
Hyssop contains anti-inflammatory chemicals that help in reducing inflammation of the airways and increases air circulation in the lungs. In addition, the antibacterial property of the herb provides fast relief from respiratory infections.
Tylophora indica, commonly known as Indian ipecac, is a wonderful natural remedy for allergy, bronchitis and bronchial asthma. The tylophora leaves contain anti-allergic, anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic compounds that help in alleviating the symptoms of asthma.
The antihistamine activity of butterbur helps in healing asthma attacks following exposure to allergens. In addition, it also acts as a leukotriene inhibitor. Studies have shown that regular intake of butterbur dramatically reduces breathing difficulty caused by asthma.
Lobelia has powerful antispasmodic property. It helps in relaxing the bronchioles, thereby providing relief from breathing difficulty. It also helps in eliminating mucus from the lungs and throat and aids in clearing the airways.
Licorice acts as a natural expectorant. By eliminating mucus from the airways, it helps in easing breathing. It also helps in relaxing the smooth muscles of the bronchioles and provides relief from wheezing.
Turmeric is beneficial for people suffering from bronchial asthma. Curcumin, a powerful anti-inflammatory chemical found in turmeric, helps in reducing tightness of the chest and decreases constriction of the airways.
The botanical name of Szechuan lovage is Ligusticum wallichii. In the traditional Chinese medicine, this herb is used for treating asthma. It works by relaxing the tracheal smooth muscles and reducing production of chemicals that constrict the airways.
Ephedra sinica, known as Ma Huang in the traditional Chinese medicine, is a natural bronchodilator. Moreover, it also helps in strengthening the body’s resistance to infections, thereby reducing the risk of respiratory infections that trigger asthma attacks.
Drinking tea made with slippery elm helps in reducing bronchial spasms that cause wheezing and breathing difficulty. It helps in thinning the mucus in the lungs so that it can be easily expelled from the airways.
This herb of the mint family is used as an herbal bronchodilator. Forskolin, the main bioactive constituent of the herb, is known for its antispasmodic property. Studies have shown that inhaling forskolin powder causes significant improvement in the asthma symptoms.
This common kitchen herb can help in alleviating asthma attack. It helps in breaking down histamine, which trigger asthma attack following exposure to allergens. Garlic also stimulates production of prostacyclins that help in dilation of the airways.
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