Asthma is chronic respiratory condition characterized by constricted and inflamed airways that cause wheezing and breathlessness. People with this condition suffer from asthma attacks as a result of inhaling an irritant, for example, pet dander or pollen. Although there is no cure for asthma, your doctor can prescribe medicines that reduce inflammation in the airways and help you breathe more easily. Some herbs may also have anti-inflammatory effects, although you should never use them to treat an asthma attack. Ask your doctor whether it safe for you to include herbal supplements in your asthma treatment plan.
Example
The University of Maryland Medical Center website notes that several herbs may help reduce asthma-associated inflammation, including an herb extracted from the resin of a plant used in traditional Indian medicine, known as boswellia. Although it contains a number of biologically active ingredients, the Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center notes that its major component, boswellic acid, is likely responsible for this herb's anti-inflammatory effects, and it may work by reducing the production of pro-inflammatory chemicals.
Efficacy
Clinical studies evaluating the role of boswellia for the treatment of asthma are limited. However, the results of the clinical study by M.E. Houssen et al published in the July 2010 issue of "Clinical Biochemistry," shows that boswellia reduced blood plasma levels of anti-inflammatory chemicals in patients with bronchial asthma, leading the authors to conclude that it may play a role in the management of this condition. In contrast, an analysis of clinical data from trials evaluating the role of herbal medicines, including boswellia, in the treatment of asthma, published in the December 2010 issue of "Primary Care Respiratory Journal," concluded that improvements in asthma symptoms were mainly subjective. As such, authors C.E Clark et al conclude that no recommendations can be made for the use of herbal supplements for the treatment of asthma.
Side Effects and Contraindications
RxList notes that boswellia, sometimes referred to as Indian frankincense, appears to be safe for most people. However, it may also cause side effects such as diarrhea, abdominal pain and nausea in some people. Do not use this herb if you are pregnant or breastfeeding. Discontinue use if you start to feel unwell while using boswellia.
How to Take Your Supplement
The appropriate dose of boswellia may depend on age, health and other conditions, according to RxList. The UMMC website suggests taking 3mg three times per day to alleviate asthma symptoms, while Drugs.com notes that 900mg of boswellia gum resin may be taken daily to treat bronchial asthma. Given the disparity in dosing guidelines, you should ask your doctor for advice on the right dose for you. This herb is usually supplied in capsule or tablet form and should be taken whole with water.
References
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Asthma
- Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center: Boswellia
- Clinical Biochemistry; Natural Anti-Inflammatory Products and Leukotriene Inhibitors as Complementary Therapy for Bronchial Asthma; M.E. Houssen et al; July 2010
- Primary Care Respiratory Journal; Herbal Interventions for Chronic Asthma in Adults and Children: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis; C.E. Clark et al; December 2010
- RxList: Indian Frankincense
- Drugs.com: Indian Frankincense
