Ailments and Situations - Asthma - Remedies

- Herbs -

Herbs

Elecampane is used as a popular rejuvenating tonic for the lungs. Pour 4 cups of water over 3 teaspoons of root and bring to a boil. Simmer for 10 to 15 minutes and divide into 3 doses for the day. If using a tincture, take 10 to 30 drops in ¹/₄ cup of water, 3 times daily

Lobelia is a powerful expectorant and anti-asthmatic herb where, when taken, the effects are felt all the way down to the toes. It is an ideal method of controlling difficult breathing without any adverse side effects. Infuse one teaspoon with one cup boiling water for 10 minutes and take three times daily. If using a tincture, take 20 to 30 drops when needed, up to three times daily. The best lobelia tinctures are made with apple cider vinegar, as this fully extracts the plants alkaloids

Nettle may also prove helpful. Add 1 to 3 teaspoons dried herb to 1 cup hot water. Drink three times daily.

- Homeopathy -

Homeopathy

Certain remedies can be used in acute situations if your symptoms fit the symptom picture of the remedy. For dosages, see the dedicated section on Homeopathy. Consult your homeopath or naturopath to determine your constitutional remedy: the remedy that best fits you as a whole person. Your homeopath or naturopath will take a complete case history considering all of your mental and physical ailments and match these symptoms with the symptom picture of the remedy.

Aconite: For dry asthma (non productive, no expectoration). Asthma attacks come suddenly and with great intensity. Person is restless and fearful.

Arsenicum: Asthma attacks occur from 12 AM to 2 AM. Made better by sitting in an upright position. The person is full of fears, restless, and weak.

Ipecac: Useful in productive asthma, especially in children. Rattling cough, where the phlegm rattles as the person breathes. Nausea and abdominal pains occur in warm humid weather.

Pulsatilla: Asthma is worse in bed, preventing person from sleep, especially children. Made worse when lying down or has a cold -- increased expectoration causes coughing.

Sambucus: An important remedy for children's asthma. Child cannot breath due to nasal congestion. Awakens at night with feelings of suffocation. Heavy perspiration.