Dyspnea, or shortness of breath, is the sensation of difficult or uncomfortable breathing associated with a variety of conditions including lung diseases, cardiovascular diseases, epiglottitis, obesity, lack of exercise and allergies. Treatment depends upon the underlying cause, although oxygen therapy and hospitalization may be required in some cases. Several herbs may also help treat or manage dyspnea naturally. However, it is important to talk to doctor before using them.
Hawthorn
The leaves, flowers and fruits of the hawthorn plant are made into liquid extracts, tablets and capsules that can significantly improve difficult and uncomfortable breathing in patients suffering from heart disease, says Holly Phaneuf in the book "Herbs Demystified." Hawthorn supplements are generally safe to use, although mild side effects such as upset stomach, dizziness and headache may occur. Drug interactions with hawthorn have not been well studied. Hence, it is important to inform your doctor about any medications you might be taking.
Astragalus
The University of Maryland Medical Center recommends dried root extracts of astragalus plant to treat dyspnea associated with asthma, allergies and anxiety. The herb is available in liquid extract and decoction form and doses range from 1 to 25 g per day. Talk to your doctor to determine the dosage that is right for you. No serious side effects or drug interactions have been reported at recommended doses.
Essential Plant Oils
Marianne Matzo, co-author of the book "Palliative Care Nursing: Quality Care to the End of Life," states that a combination of essential oils obtained from bark, leaves, berries and branches of plants such as eucalyptus, peppermint, ginger, lavender, basil, sandalwood and cypress may provide relief from shortness of breath. Diluted essential oils are inhaled through a diffuser, vaporizer or humidifier. They are safe to use and are non-habit-forming but can cause mild allergic reactions in certain individuals. Inform your doctor immediately if symptoms such as hives and skin rash appear of if breathing difficulties worsen.
Pinus Strobus
Pinus strobus, or Eastern white pine, is an evergreen tree native to Northeastern United States. Decoctions made by boiling the bark of this tree in water can help treat shortness of breath, especially in obese individuals. The benefits of Pinus strobus and other herbs for dyspnea have not been proven scientifically, nor have the side effects of Pinus strobus been well documented. It should, therefore, be used only under the supervision of a doctor.
References
- "Herbs Demystified: a Scientist Explains How the Most Common Herbal Remedies Really Work"; Holly Phaneuf; 2005
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Astragalus
- "Palliative Care Nursing: Quality Care to the End of Life"; Marianne Matzo and Deborah Witt Sherman; 2009
- "Native American Medicinal Plants: an Ethnobotanical Dictionary"; Daniel E. Moerman; 2009
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