Interstitial lung disease (ILD) occurs when the alveoli, or small sacs in your lungs, become inflamed and unable to function properly. Oxygen flow to your body is inhibited, which in turn impair the workings of your body. An entire group of lung conditions falls into the category of ILD. Vitamins and herbs such as burdock, ginger and vitamin C may be effective adjuncts to medical advice and care from a pulmonologist.
About Interstitial Lung Disease
Medicine divides interstitial lung disease into two broad categories, those conditions whose cause is unknown --- idiopathic ILD --- and the disorders that can be linked to a root cause. In both types, the alveoli become scarred, inflexible and unable to process oxygen. Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis, in which the entire lung is infiltrated by scar tissue, is the most frequently diagnosed ILD. Causes include infections, pharmaceutical drugs, autoimmune disorders and industrial pollutants. Cigarette smoking can aggravate ILD. Symptoms include shortness of breath, exhaustion and cough.
Useful Vitamins
A healthy diet can support your immune and respiratory systems. Vitamins C and E are antioxidants, which defend your cellular DNA from attack by free radical molecules. Citrus fruit, green peppers, strawberries, raspberries, tomatoes and spinach are rich in vitamin C. Avocados, dark green leafy vegetables, nuts and vegetable oils can supply you with plenty of vitamin E. Red grapes and blackberries also contain antioxidants, as do green tea and fish oils. Consult a registered dietitian if you have questions about specific supplements.
Anti-Inflammatory Herbs
When first treating ILD, your physician may prescribe a corticosteroid drug, which reduces inflammation. Many herbs have anti-inflammatory abilities, including turmeric and ginger. Turmeric, a culinary spice, contains substances with potent therapeutic properties. According to physician Deepak Chopra, M.D., author of "The Chopra Center Herbal Handbook," turmeric reduces inflammation by halting the manufacture of prostaglandins. Prostaglandins are signaling enzymes that communicate within your cells. Ginger, or Zingiber officinale, also is an herb that can alleviate inflammation, according to a 2006 study published in "Phytotherapy Research." In addition, the study demonstrated that ginger is also a successful pain killer.
Herbs for Coughs
A dry and persistent cough often accompanies lung conditions. Susun S. Weed, a clinical herbalist and author of the 2003 book "Wise Woman Tradition: Healing Wise," recommends burdock for coughs. Burdock seeds can relax constriction in your upper respiratory system. Additionally, tea brewed from violet leaves can soothe irritated lungs. The use of herbal supplements is not an adequate substitute for advice and treatment from a qualified health care provider.
References
- Analgesic, Antiinflammatory and Hypoglycaemic Effects of Ethanol Extract of Zingiber Officinale (Roscoe) Rhizomes (Zingiberaceae) in Mice and Rats
- PubMed Health: Diffuse Interstitial Lung Disease
- "Wise Woman Herbal: Healing Wise"; Susun S. Weed; 2003
- "The Chopra Center Herbal Handbook"; Deepak Chopra M.D., et al.; 2000
