Herb
Treatment Support
respiratory antispasmodic
Application
tincture
Asthma
Etiologic and Other Factors Leading to Asthma:
- Genetic Predisposition: Family history of asthma, allergies, or atopic diseases increases susceptibility.
- Environmental Triggers: Exposure to allergens like pollen, dust mites, mold, and pet dander.
- Respiratory Infections: Viral infections, especially in early childhood, can lead to airway sensitivity.
- Irritants: Tobacco smoke, pollution, strong odors, and chemical fumes can exacerbate or trigger asthma.
- Lifestyle Factors: Obesity, sedentary habits, and poor diet may contribute to inflammation and airway reactivity.
- Occupational Hazards: Certain jobs expose individuals to irritants, such as construction, farming, or manufacturing.
- Weather and Climate: Cold air, humidity, or sudden weather changes can provoke asthma symptoms.
Signs to Seek Professional Help:
- Persistent wheezing, shortness of breath, or chest tightness.
- Symptoms that interfere with daily activities or sleep.
- Using quick-relief inhalers more frequently than prescribed.
- Severe symptoms, such as difficulty speaking or bluish lips or face.
- Asthma attacks that do not improve with rescue medication.
- First-time symptoms or worsening of known asthma conditions.
Treatment Plan for Asthma
When to Treat at Home with Herbs:
Herbs may help with mild asthma or as complementary care but should not replace prescribed treatments. Consider:
- Mullein (Verbascum thapsus): Helps soothe the respiratory tract.
- Ginger (Zingiber officinale): Reduces inflammation and relaxes airways.
- Licorice Root (Glycyrrhiza glabra): Eases bronchial inflammation and mucus buildup.
- Turmeric (Curcuma longa): Anti-inflammatory effects may improve airway health.
Use herbs only for mild symptoms or as preventive care, not during acute attacks. Always consult a healthcare professional before using herbs, especially if you are already on medications, as interactions can occur.
Note: Seek professional help for moderate to severe symptoms or any uncertainty regarding treatment.
Christopher Hobbs:
“Asthma is a chronic ailment characterized by a spasmodic narrowing of the airways accompanied by wheezing and shortness of breath. It often has genetic and emotional influences; food and respiratory allergies may also play a role in increasing inflammation and reactivity of the bronchial tissues.
Try excluding eggs, wheat, and dairy products–one at a time–from your diet. An herbal program should include adrenal tonics, antispasmodic herbs for the respiratory tract, anti-inflammatories for the respiratory tract and relaxing nervines.”
Herbal Remedies for Asthma
Herb
Treatment Support
Application
Herb
Treatment Support
respiratory antispasmodic
Application
tea, tincture
Herb
Treatment Support
respiratory antispasmodic
Application
tincture, capsule
Herb
Treatment Support
respiratory antispasmodic
Application
tincture, capsule
Herb
Treatment Support
bronchial dilator
Application
tincture, tea, capsule, tablet
Herb
Treatment Support
adrenal tonic
Application
tincture, capsule, tablet
Herb
Treatment Support
antispasmodic
Application
tincture, capsule
Herb
Treatment Support
antispasmodic, demulcent
Application
tincture
Herb
Treatment Support
expectorant, mucolytic, antispasmodic
Application
tincture, tea
Related Asthma conditions
Additional Ailment
Herb
Application
The information given here is designed to help you make informed choices about your health. The information is drawn from numerous sources—both traditional medicine practice, from the clinical experience of many herbalists currently practicing, and supported by decades of scientific research from the author. The research most consulted includes human clinical trials that help to determine the most effective and safe herbs for various needs, the best doses, and types of preparations.
The information offered in this database is not intended as a substitute for any that may have been prescribed by your health practitioner or physician.
