Asthma is a serious medical condition that restricts breathing when the bronchial tubes in the lungs constrict, leaving the asthma patient gasping for air. Asthma attacks may occur as the result of exposure to animal dander, dust mites, pollution, smoke inhalation, pollen and other airborne allergies. Some attacks may result from strenuous exercise, cold air or anxiety. Home remedies complement traditional medications to reduce the frequency of an asthma attack, but do not discontinue your prescribed asthma regimen without permission from your physician.
Diet
The "Gale Encyclopedia of Alternative Medicine" recommends eating a diet low in dairy products to reduce mucus production in the lungs. Other foods to avoid include refined starches and highly processed foods, and convenience-type foods that include additives.
Recommended foods are fresh vegetables, fruits and whole grain products. The "Gale Encyclopedia of Alternative Medicine" also says that vegan diets may benefit some asthma sufferers, if they are allergic to arachidonic acid, which is found in beef and other meat and poultry products.
Relaxation Techniques
When an asthma attack begins, you may become tense and anxious, aggravating the attack. Meditation, deep breathing, self-hypnosis and mental imagery, when practiced in advance, may help you relax to reduce the severity of the attack.
Aromatherapy
Some essential oils may help open constricted bronchial tubes, reducing or preventing mild asthma attacks. Chamomile oil, lavender oil, eucalyptus and rosemary oils may be beneficial. Add a drop or two to a pot of simmering water.
Healthy Indoor Environment
Close the windows, and use an air conditioner, especially during pollen season. Avoid animals with fur or feathers, if animal dander is one of your asthma triggers. Change your furnace and air conditioner filters every month to avoid recirculating dust. Choose allergy-free latex pillows instead of feather pillows. In addition, use dust-proof covers on upholstered furniture and mattresses.
Keep your home clean to reduce an attack. Use a HEPA filter on your vacuum to remove the majority of airborne pollutants. Consider replacing wall-to-wall carpeting with tile or linoleum that does not trap dust. Wash curtains seasonally.
Additional Home Remedies
Overeating before bedtime may trigger an asthma attack. Eat earlier in the evening or take an antacid before retiring. Avoid cigarette smoke and smoke from fireplaces or wood-burning stoves. Wear a scarf or a face mask if it is cold outside. Avoid breathing in the cold blast of air that emits from an open freezer.
Talk to your doctor about drinking caffeine in the event of an impending attack. Add a Vitamin B6 supplement to your diet.
Keep in mind that asthma can be deadly. You must always keep your inhaler with you. Home remedies may be valuable for reducing the frequency and the severity of asthma attacks, but they cannot open constricted bronchial tubes during a full-blown asthma attack.
References
- “Gale Encyclopedia of Alternative Medicine, Volume 1;” Jacqueline L. Longe; 2005
- Mayo Clinic
- Mother Nature
