Asthma medications often come with risk, and some asthma patients prefer to search for alternative ways to relieve their asthma symptoms. Homeopathic asthma treatments, while not always accepted by mainstream doctors, have been shown in several studies to be effective in reducing asthma symptoms. While it is always important to consult with your doctor before changing the way you treat your asthma, it is smart to be aware of what your treatment options are so you can take charge of your health.
Vitamin E
Studies have shown that asthma symptoms may be decreased by vitamin E, which can be found in foods, such as almonds, wheat germ, spinach, broccoli, mango, peanut butter and more. Vitamin E supplements can be taken, but they contain a slightly different form of the vitamin, and studies are still unclear whether vitamin E in supplement form is as effective as vitamin E that comes from foods. Vitamin E works to reduce inflammation, which is a major cause of asthma-related symptoms.
Omega-3s for Asthma
Several studies have been conducted trying to determine whether omega-3 fatty acids may help reduce asthma symptoms. Omega-3s can be found naturally in fish, walnuts, and seeds or taken in supplement form. Children may not be willing to take omega-3 supplements by themselves, but they can be found in flavored form or mixed in with juice or yogurt.
Local Honey
Many asthma sufferers also suffer from allergies, which can then trigger asthma symptoms. Local honey is thought to help reduce allergies by exposing a person to small amounts of local pollen and helping their body to slowly get used to the allergens over time. It’s always best to consult with your doctor before trying something new, especially if you have severe allergies or asthma.
Magnesium
A study, performed by Bastyr University in Kenmore, Wash., and the University of California at Davis, found evidence that asthma symptoms could be reduced by taking magnesium supplements. Asthma patients participating in the study were able to move larger amounts of air in and out of their lungs after they had added magnesium supplements to their regular diet and medications. Magnesium can be found in food sources, such as nuts and green vegetables, as well.
Traditional Chinese Herbs
Traditional Chinese medicine has been around for centuries and may prove useful for relieving some asthma symptoms. Studies have been conducted, comparing the effectiveness of traditional Chinese herbs to standard asthma medications; the early results are promising. Chinese herbs have been shown to reduce inflammation and help the immune response, both of which are important factors in controlling asthma symptoms.
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