Natural Herbs for Asthma

Asthma can be an extremely limiting condition if you fail to get it under control. There are many medications for your symptoms, though these may have side effects. Herbal remedies can improve your asthma symptoms naturally and without nearly as many side effects. Here are a few treatments that can help.

Ephedra

• Ephedra is not currently approved by the FDA, though it still finds its way into some herbal products in the United States and outside of the country. It may be one of the most effective herbal remedies for asthma. Ephedra, which is also known as ma huang or muang, acts to widen your respiratory passages when combined with expectorant herbs like licorice. Try 130 milligrams of the standardized extract of ephedra and 200 milligrams of licorice three times a day. Avoid this remedy if you have heart problems, high blood pressure or anxiety.

Yerba Santa

• Yerba santa (Eriodictyon californicum) is a shrub that grows in California, Oregon and the northern parts of Mexico. The herb has been used to cure bronchitis, tracheitis and asthma and has been used on other respiratory disorders. Yerba santa can be taken as a tonic, as a poultice on the skin or in a bath. An herbalist or integrated medical practitioner can advise you on proper dosage for your particular disorder.

Lobelia

• Lobelia (Lobelia inflata), sometimes called asthma weed, was smoked by Native Americans to relieve asthma and other disorders of the lungs. Lobelia stimulates breathing and relaxes the smaller bronchial tubes. An infusion of the herb can be created by putting half a teaspoon of the leaves in a cup of boiling water and steeping for 10 minutes before straining. Lobelia can be used along with relaxing herbs like skullcap and valerian root, which increase its effectiveness during asthma attacks.

Thyme

• Thyme is a commonly used herb found in many kitchens. The herb has been used topically to heal bruises, cuts, and burns. Thyme also acts as a relaxant for the bronchial tubes which can lead to an improvement of asthma symptoms. It can be taken as an herbal infusion similar to lobelia (see Resources).

Where to Buy

• Most of these remedies can be purchased at natural food stores or over the Internet. It is recommended that you get the guidance of a professional before deciding on any particular remedy.

Warning

• Herbal remedies can cause allergic reactions and can interact with medications that you're already taking. Consult your doctor or an integrated medical practitioner to make sure the herbs are appropriate for you if you take medication or have known allergies.