Home Remedies for Asthma to Relieve Symptoms Naturally

ByAgkidzone Staff

Updated: Oct 2, 2024

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Asthma is among the most common chronic respiratory conditions worldwide, and, unfortunately, there's no known cure yet. It leads to symptoms like chest tightness, wheezing, and significant difficulty in breathing. While inhalers are the standard go-to treatment during an asthma attack, folks with asthma might reduce the frequency of these attacks by minimizing triggers and making certain dietary adjustments.

Besides practicing various breathing techniques, some people turn to complementary therapies that include natural remedies. Keep in mind, these natural products should always be used alongside prescribed bronchodilator medications and only after getting the green light from your doctor.

Ginger

Ginger is renowned for its phenolic compounds that boast anti-inflammatory properties and can relax airway smooth muscle (ASM). Acting as a bronchodilator, ginger may help reduce coughing duration and lessen the time someone needs mechanical ventilation. A 2020 study even found that ginger's bioactive components reduced allergic lung inflammation in mice. So, brewing a cup of tea with fresh ginger root or adding this herb to your cooking might just do the trick.

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Mustard Oil

You can incorporate mustard seeds as a spice in your meals or heat up mustard oil to apply on your chest. Applying a tablespoon of warm mustard oil topically might reduce inflammation and provide relief, though more research is needed to confirm these benefits. Always do a patch test first to ensure you don't have a reaction. And remember, some people might be allergic to mustard, plus pure mustard oil is banned in North America and Europe.

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Figs

Figs have been used for ages in Ayurvedic medicine to address respiratory issues and help eliminate phlegm. To try this remedy, rinse three dried figs and soak them overnight in a small covered bowl with some water. In the morning, eat the softened fruit on an empty stomach and drink the leftover water. Just be aware that sulfites in dried fruits can cause adverse reactions, so opting for fresh figs might be a better idea.

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Garlic

Since asthma is an inflammatory condition, anti-inflammatory foods like garlic could be beneficial. Garlic has antiasthmatic properties, and a 2019 study showed that garlic extracts lowered inflammatory cell counts in mice with allergen-induced airway inflammation. While more research is needed, adding fresh garlic to your cooking might help. But watch out—garlic can cause gas, which might put pressure on the diaphragm and affect breathing.

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Coffee

Good news for coffee lovers! Caffeine can improve airway function for about two to four hours after consumption. Because caffeine is similar to the bronchodilator theophylline, it has potential benefits for people with asthma, even if your morning cup isn't as potent or fast-acting as a rescue inhaler. Just make sure to avoid caffeine for at least four hours before a lung function test, or it might skew the results.

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Probiotics

There's evidence suggesting a link between asthma and gut health. Consuming foods that promote beneficial gut bacteria might ease some asthma symptoms by reducing airway inflammation. Probiotic-rich foods include fermented options like kimchi, sauerkraut, kefir, and kombucha. Whenever possible, it's best to get probiotics from your diet rather than supplements.

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Vitamin D

Low levels of vitamin D have been connected to an increased risk of asthma attacks. Ensuring you get enough vitamin D might offer better protection against acute respiratory infections and reduce reliance on systemic corticosteroids. You can boost your vitamin D levels by consuming eggs, salmon, and fortified orange juice, spending some time in the sun, or taking a short-term supplement.

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Vitamin E

Vitamin E contains a compound called tocopherol, which can reduce asthma symptoms like wheezing. It might also lower levels of mucin, making mucus less sticky and easier to expel from the body. While a vitamin E supplement could help reduce ozone-induced bronchoconstriction, incorporating foods like almonds, hazelnuts, Swiss chard, and kale into your meals sounds both delicious and beneficial.

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Turmeric

Turmeric, with its active compound curcumin, is a staple in Eastern medicine. This root herb has anti-inflammatory effects, and curcumin becomes more bioavailable when paired with piperine found in black pepper. Including turmeric in your diet might lead to less airway obstruction and improved airflow in the lungs.

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Omega-3 Oils, Not Omega-6

Adding more omega-3 fatty acids to your diet can lead to fewer asthma symptoms related to indoor air pollution. On the flip side, omega-6 fatty acids might have the opposite effect. So, eating more salmon and cutting down on foods high in omega-6s, like those containing corn oil, could be valuable steps.

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Flaxseeds and Chia Seeds

In the quest for natural asthma relief, don't forget about flaxseeds and chia seeds. Packed with omega-3 fatty acids known for their anti-inflammatory properties, these tiny seeds have been found beneficial in managing asthma symptoms in some studies. Incorporating them into your diet is simple: sprinkle them over oatmeal, blend them into smoothies, or mix them into yogurt. Their nutty flavor and nutritional benefits make them an excellent addition to any meal, offering a plant-based method to potentially ease the inflammation characteristic of asthma.

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Magnesium-Rich Nuts and Seeds

Magnesium has been highlighted for its potential to ease asthma symptoms due to its muscle-relaxing properties that may help open up the airways. Nuts like almonds and peanuts, along with seeds such as pumpkin and sunflower seeds, are excellent sources of this vital mineral. Snacking on these magnesium-rich foods or adding them to your meals could offer a natural way to support respiratory health. While they aren't a substitute for medical treatment, they could serve as a complementary approach to an asthma-friendly diet, helping make breathing a bit easier.

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Honey

Honey has long been cherished for its soothing effects on the throat, making it a popular home remedy for coughing associated with asthma. A spoonful of honey can help coat the throat, offering temporary relief from coughing spells. However, it's important to use honey with caution, especially if you have a known allergy to it. Always consult with a healthcare provider before introducing new remedies into your routine. And remember, do not give honey to children under one year old due to the risk of botulism. Despite these precautions, honey's natural sweetness and comforting texture make it a favored choice for many seeking relief from coughing.

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