Are There Natural Asthma Remedies?
There are many natural asthma remedies touted to relieve asthma symptoms. However, because there have been few or no research studies on most types of alternative medicine for asthma, the effectiveness and safety of many are unknown. Here are some examples of natural asthma remedies: • Herbs and natural dietary supplements. Many different herbs, plants, and supplements have been used with asthma, including Tylophora (Indian ipecac), butterbur, ephedra (ma huang), katuka, grapeseed, boswellia, and dried ivy. Since none have been definitively shown to help asthma symptoms, they are generally not recommended. Ma huang (ephedra), a very common herb used in dietary supplements, has been used for years as a bronchodilator. Ephedra was banned by the FDA. Several studies have looked at using vitamin C supplements and omega-3 fatty acids (fish oil) for asthma symptoms. Again, there is not enough evidence to recommend these natural therapies. • Yoga . Oftentimes, stress triggers asthma symptoms.
