Homeopathic remedies offer a safe solution for respiratory problems and chest inflammations like asthma. Choosing the correct remedy requires careful evaluation of the asthma attack to determine what might have caused it, the symptoms during the episode and what may improve or worsen the condition. Homeopathy can encourage healthy breathing and may aid in treatment of an acute asthma attack. Most remedies come in tablet and liquid form at 30C potency and can be taken every one-half to two hours until symptoms abate. If the attack does not subside, you should seek medical attention immediately.
Aconite
Aconite is a dilution of the plant commonly known as monkshood or wolfsbane. The plant is toxic in its whole form and should only be taken in homeopathic potencies of 3x or higher. When asthma comes on suddenly, especially after exposure to cold, aconite may be indicated. According to Dr. Carolyn Dean, children with asthma who need this remedy may express great fear during the episode.
Antimonium Tart
This remedy is derived from antimony oxide and potassium tartrate. It is more commonly known as tarter emetic in conventional medicine. Antimonium is commonly used to treat children with a rattling cough alongside loud, heavy wheezing. Even though people in need of antimonium may feel chilled, they still prefer a cool room and tend to avoid warm, stuffy areas. According to Dr. Ellen Feingold, this homeopathic remedy can be used for those who are unable to expectorate mucus, specifically the very old and very young.
Arsenicum
Arsenicum is composed of the arsenic oxide compound, which is poisonous when not given in a homeopathic dilution. This remedy is often used when symptoms include wheezing with a cough accompanied by restlessness and anxiety. Arsenicum is especially useful in cases of nighttime attacks with panic, according to Dr. Carolyn Dean. If you find yourself thirsty, but only desire small sips of water, this may be the remedy needed. Emotional symptoms may include an impending sense of doom or fear of dying.
Ipecacuanha
The root of the plant Cephaelis ipecacuanha gives us this remedy, which is used in Western medicine to induce vomiting. In homeopathic dilution, this remedy is indicated when there is a shortness of breath accompanied by a choking sensation or feelings of suffocation. Nausea may be present with a cough that does not expectorate any mucus. If a nosebleed follows an asthma attack, Ipecacuanha is strongly recommended. Coughing that leads to vomiting is a strong indication for this remedy. According to Dr. Gary Null, homeopathic physicians often recommend Ipecacuanha for violent coughing and chest restriction.
Phosphorus
This chemical element is present in every living cell and is made into a homeopathic remedy through standard dilution. Phosphorus is often indicated for noisy breathing and those who have recurrent asthma. The person in need of this remedy is often anxious and needs to be touched and reassured. This individual may experience improvement during asthmatic coughing from stroking of the body.
Spongia
This homeopathic remedy is made from the fresh roasted sea sponge. A dry, spasmodic cough accompanied by a feeling of suffocation may indicate the need for spongia. A deep-sounding cough may be present following an upper respiratory infection. In children, a cough that is barky and croupy may become worse in the early evening. In addition to spongia, consuming warm food and liquids may help individuals with these symptoms.
References
- "Complete Encyclopedia of Natural Healing"; Gary Null, PhD; 2005
- "Homeopathic Remedies for Children's Common Ailments"; Carolyn Dean, MD; 1995
- "Homeopathy, Herbal Remedies, and Nutritional Supplements"; Ellen Feingold, MD; 2008
