Asthma and Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease or COPD are serious respiratory diseases. They are characterized by blockage in the air passages, bronchial muscle spasms, swelling of the mucus linings and increased production of mucus, making it difficult to breathe. Asthma and COPD attacks can be triggered by irritants in the air, such as smoke, dust and chemicals and mucus forming foods. However, both diseases can be improved by the consistent use of an alternative diet and natural supplements.
Recommended diet
Dr. Steven Bratman, a medical doctor who has extensively researched alternative health and Dr. James Balch, a medical doctor who also practices alternative medicine, recommend a non-mucus-forming diet high in vitamins and minerals for those who have asthma and COPD. Balch recommends raw vegetables and fruit; fresh, cooked vegetables; pumpkin and sunflower seeds; whole grains and whole grain breads such as brown rice, quinoa, spelt, and barley; lean poultry and fresh fish. Dark green leafy vegetables, garlic and onions, and ground flaxseeds also have anti inflammatory benefits. At the same time, avoid mucus-forming foods, such as dairy products, sugar, junk food, fried food and refined foods. Food additives and preservatives, such as yellow dye number 5, red dye, sulfites, benzoates and MSG, are chemicals. This includes processed foods, smoked food and salad bars. Frozen and cold foods can tighten airway muscles, making it difficult to get air in.
Nutritional Supplements
There is some variation in the nutritional and herbal supplements to take because COPD is a more severe disease. For asthma, Balch recommends a vitamin and mineral regimen. Take 1 to 2 tbls. of flaxseed oil or 5 to 8 g of fish oil daily. Take 250 mg of magnesium four times a day. Take 1,000 mg of vitamin C two to four times a day. Reduce the dosages of magnesium and vitamin C if stools become loose. Take 500 to 1,000 mg of Astragalus twice a day, if no fever. Bratman makes reference to studies that suggest an amino acid called L-carnitine improves the efficiency of lung muscles and other muscles in the respiratory tract, which would be helpful for those with COPD.
Homeopathic Remedies
As an alternative to medications given during an asthma attack, Balch recommends a variety of homeopathic remedies to choose from, based on an individual symptoms. Take 30 C every 10 or 15 minutes during an attack until symptoms disappear. Aconitum napellus and arsenicum album is for sudden asthma attacks, especially after being out in the cold air, being fearful or anxious. Carbo Vegetabilis is for people who breathe better when fanned or sitting near an open window. Ipecacuanha and pulsatilla are relieving for coughing, gagging and vomiting due to a lot of mucus. Lachesis is helpful for constriction in the throat and chest that improve with fresh air. Medorrihinum is for reoccurring attacks, respiratory tract infections and feverishness. Natrum Sulphuricum works well for asthma that worsens in cold, damp weather and in the early morning. All nutritional supplements and homeopathic remedies can be found in a health food store or herb shop.
Chinese Medicine
Dr. Robert Green, Jr., a naturopathic doctor, reports clinical evidence shows that certain Chinese herbs and acupuncture help reduce shortness of breath and improve pulmonary function in COPD. Acupuncture is done by inserting tiny disposable needles just under the skin's surface, along the body's meridian. This relieves pain or restores balance in the body. Many acupuncturists also have knowledge of Chinese herbs and can recommend the correct ones for COPD or refer a client to a source for Chinese herbs that knows.
References
- Accufinder: Natural Approach to Treating Emphysema and COPD
- "Prescription for Natural Cures"; Balch, M.D., James; Stengler, N.D., Mark; 2004
