Interstitial lung disease, or ILD, refers to a collection of diseases that cause lung fibrosis, or gradual lung scarring. ILD's damage is irreversible, although prescription drugs may inhibit further damage to the lungs. If you have this condition, the Pulmonary Fibrosis Foundation, or PFF, recommends a highly nutritive diet. Herbs that build lung strength and alleviate coughs might also help. Always seek advice from your physician before using herbs.
Interstitial Lung Disease
ILD can be caused by autoimmune illnesses, chemotherapy, radiation or exposure to hazardous material such as asbestos, according to MayoClinic.com. Frequently, though, doctors cannot find the precise reason you have developed the disease. ILD affects the membranes of the tiny sacs in your lungs called alveoli. The membranes become hardened with scar tissue and cannot work properly. If you are diagnosed with ILD, the first treatment your doctor may try is a corticosteroid drug. Corticosteroids are prescribed to subdue lung inflammation. If you are experiencing any breathing problems, see your physician.
Vitamins
Physician Ray Sahelian, M.D., writes that lung disease treatment can be assisted by consuming foods high vitamins C and E, which are antioxidants that support immune system health. Fruits abundant in antioxidants include blackberries, blueberries and red grapes. Green tea, fish oil and resveratol supplements provide antioxidants as well. He also recommends quality multivitamins and inositol supplements. It assists in the manufacture of cell membranes. Some vitamins may be inappropriate if you have ILD, so speak to your doctor before using vitamin supplements.
Burdock and Violet
A dry, nagging cough can be a frequent symptom of ILD. Herbs utilized for coughs include burdock and violet, writes clinical herbalist Susun S. Weed in her 2003 book, "Wise Woman Tradition: Healing Wise." Burdock seeds support immune system health and have relaxant properties, which may relax a constricted respiratory system. Violet leaf tea soothes inflamed tissue and tincture of violet root can ease coughs, according to Weed. Many herbs have strong biological effects that may interfere with ILD medications. Use them under the supervision of your physician.
Nettle
Nettle strengthens the respiratory system and acts as a nourishing tonic for the entire body, according to Weed. You can receive nettle's beneficial properties through nettle leaf tea, nettle tincture or the fresh juice of its leaves and stalks. Additionally, tender young nettle leaves can be cooked as a vegetable. The use of herbal supplements is not an adequate substitute for advice and treatment from a qualified health care provider.
References
- Pulmonary Fibrosis Foundation: Quality of Life
- Ray Sahelian, M.D.: Lung Disease and Lung Cancer
- MayoClinic.com: Interstitial Lung Disease
- "Wise Woman Tradition: Healing Wise"; Susun S. Weed; 2003
