Three Herbal Supplements That May Help Control Adult Asthma
If you suffer from asthma, it can be a difficult part of your daily life, especially when you have a sudden asthma attack. During these moments, it is usually best to use whatever medication your asthma doctor has prescribed for you. But in the long run, there are several herbal supplements that may help your asthma. The following are three herbs that many adults with asthma have found helpful.
Ginger
Ginger is perhaps the most well known herbal supplement for treating asthma, and this is likely due to the anti-inflammatory effect it has on the body. It works by keeping your air passages from constricting. There are also other benefits to using ginger, such as its antioxidant proprieties, so it will contribute to your overall health. To get the full benefits of ginger, you should not buy it in a processed form. It is a root, so you should purchase it this way or as a powder with no additives. You can add small shavings to a soup or salad. Another idea is to add it to boiling water, then mix in honey or lemon to make a tea.
Turmeric
This is more of a spice than an herbal supplement. Although it is not used as much in western cooking, it is popular in many Asian dishes. Like ginger, turmeric is known for its anti-inflammatory properties, so it can be a positive part of your diet to help with asthma. You can buy this spice in powder form and add it to many dishes. Some people like to use it in their scrambled eggs for breakfast, others add it to their favorite cooked vegetables or use it in soups. Perhaps the most popular way to use turmeric is with rice. Turmeric is also available in tablet form, but you should consult with your doctor before using it this way. The dosages are likely higher than you will get when using it as a spice.
Khella
This is also a popular treatment for long-term control of asthma. It works by helping to dilate your bronchial tubes, and this, in turn, helps reduce the chances of an asthma attack. It can be purchased as an extract or as a tablet. As an extract, you can use it in a beverage such as tea. If taken as a tablet, consult your doctor before using. Khella also has benefits associated with your heart. It is thought to help strengthen heart muscles.
Before you start taking any herbal supplement, especially in tablet form, always consult with your doctor. There can be conflicts with medication you are currently taking, and your doctor can also help you with dosage.