According to the National Institutes of Health, asthma is a chronic lung disease that causes the airways leading to the lungs to become inflamed and narrow. It affects nearly 22 million Americans, 6 million of whom are children. Although there are a multitude of medications available to treat and manage this condition, some may choose to treat naturally. It should be noted that the following is not meant to replace your doctor's recommendations.
How to Treat Asthma Without Medication
Step 1
Know your triggers. Most people with asthma have a particular trigger or triggers that cause their attacks. Knowing what your particular triggers are makes it possible for you to avoid them, thus preventing the inflammation of your airways that results in an asthma attack.
Step 2
Eat more fish. Fish such as salmon, mackerel and tuna are great sources of the fatty acids omega-3. These fatty acids are a natural anti-inflammatory and may have the ability to treat this symptom in asthmatics. If you don't like fish, omega-3s are available in supplement form.
Step 3
Increase your magnesium. According to All4NaturalHealth.com, magnesium has the ability to dilate bronchial passages and prevent spasms in theses passages. Magnesium can be found in foods such as beets, spinach, okra and bean sprouts. You can also take a magnesium supplement and receive the same benefits.
Step 4
Consume more vitamin C. This vitamin is both an anti-inflammatory and antioxidant. It may have the ability to reduce wheezing as well as reduce the frequency and severity of asthma attacks. You can take a supplement or eat more citrus fruits such as oranges and grapefruit.
Step 5
Drink green tea. Green tea is more than just a morning drink--it may also serve as a treatment for asthma. It contains a compound called theophylline, which helps relax and support the bronchial tubes. This results in fewer and less severe asthma attacks.
Things You'll Need
- List of triggers
- Omega-3
- Magnesium
- Vitamin C
- Green tea
