Asthma can be defined as attacks of spasmodic contraction of the bronchial tubes, causing breathlessness. It can be caused by allergic reactions and hypersensitivity in the bronchial walls. Herbs that work to sedate and expel phlegm are recommended as teas to help to treat coughs caused by asthma attacks. Some examples of herbs that helps treat coughs due to asthma are licorice root, ephedra and jimson weed. Although these herbs will help to treat the discomfort of the cough and help reduce irritation, the underlying cause for the asthmatic attacks should be diagnosed by a health practitioner who can help reduce recurrence.
Licorice root
Licorice is known botanically as Glycyrrhiza glabra. According to herbalist Rosemary Gladstar in her book, "Family Herbal - A Guide to Living Life with Energy, Health and Vitality," it is a soothing demulcent, which means it coats the bronchial tract, reducing coughing spasms caused by asthma. Gladstar recommends its use for adults as well as children, as it has few reported cases of toxicity. Always consult your doctor before taking herbal remedies.
Ephedra
Ephedra is known botanically as Ephedra sinica and the stems are used to relieve bronchial spasms related to asthma, according to nutritional counselor Phyllis Balch in her book, "Prescription for Nutritional Healing, the A-to-Z Guide to Supplements." Balch notes that ephedra should be avoided by individuals with anxiety disorders, as it will stimulate the nervous system.
Acupuncturist Michael Tierra in his book "The Way of Herbs," says ephedra contains antiasthmatic properties due to its high content of the alkaloid ephedrine and it is especially helpful with whooping cough.
Jimson Weed
Commonly known as thorn apple, jimson weed is known botanically as Datura stramonium. It is an annual medicinal herb that reaches up to three feet in height and tends to grow in roadsides and wood edges. Jimson weed is used in folk medicine as a anticholinergic, which means it inhibits the parasympathetic nervous system by blocking the neurotransmitter acetylcholine. This reduces spasms in the bronchial tract and helps to relieve coughs caused by asthma, according to Simon Mills in his book "The Dictionary of Modern Herbalism."
The recommended dosage for making jimson weed tea is 1/10 tsp. dry herb in a cup of boiling water and Mills warns against overdosing, since jimson weed can cause tachycardia and should be avoided by pregnant women as well as individuals who suffer from prostatic disease, tachychardia and glucoma.
References
- "Family Herbal-A Guide to Living Life with Energy, Health, and Vitality"; Rosemary Gladstar; 2001
- "The Way of Herbs"; Michael Tierra L.Ac., O.M.D.; 1998
- "Perscription for Nutritional Healing, The A-to-Z Guide to Supplements"; Phyllis A. Balch; 2002
- "The Dictionary of Modern Herbalism"; Simon Y. Mills M.A., M.N.I.M.H.; 1988
Member Comments