Asthma is a disease of the respiratory tract that makes breathing difficult and can, in some cases, lead to death. If you or a loved one suffers from asthma, you are familiar with the periodic episodes of constriction in the throat, chest, bronchial tubes and lungs. Because asthma attacks often occur during sleep they are often accompanied with fear, especially in children, due to not being able to breath. There are many helpful herbs that can relieve asthma, strengthen the lungs or prevent attacks.
Gingko Biloba
Gingko biloba helps protect the throat from swelling closed during asthma attacks due to its ability to protect against anaphylaxis. It tones the blood vessels and helps to bring additional blood supply to the lungs, according to Peaceful Mind.
Mullein
According to the Mother Nature website, mullein is an important herb for treating asthma, and is found in many asthma preparations. Mullein relaxes constriction in the bronchial tubes, reducing or eradicating wheezing and shortness of breath. It's a great tonic for the lungs.
Anise
The Peaceful Mind website reviews anise, which has been found helpful in reducing tightness in the bronchial tubes. Anise is an expectorant and helps mucous break up making cough easier.
Elecampane Root
Elecampane root is purported to be an excellent tonic for the lungs, and found in numerous commercial asthma preparations, according to MotherNature.com. Elecampane root helps to lessen the frequency of asthma attacks and shorten the time frame of existing attacks, notes the Peaceful Mind site.
Mouse Ear
Mouse ear is a traditional herb used in Wales and England for reducing bronchial spasms and congestion in airways, explains Holistic Online. Mouse ear is very effective for helping cases of asthma where there is soreness in the throat and chest where constant coughing may lead to bleeding and spitting blood.
Turmeric
Turmeric, with its active ingredient curcumin, has been found to have excellent anti-inflammatory properties. It dilates blood vessels that may have gone into spasm in the bronchial tubes, relieving an asthma attack.
Parsley Leaf
Peaceful Mind also explains how parsley leaf helps to act as an expectorant, soothing coughs and loosening thick mucus in the chest.
Other Considerations
Never self-treat a chronic disease like asthma. Always seek medical advice and speak to your herbalist or health care practitioner for recommendations in how to take these herbs and in what doses.
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