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Breathe Easy
Natural Approaches to Asthma
By Andrea Candee
Valerian, blue cohosh and lobelia are excellent anti-spasmodic herbs. Combine liquid extracts of these herbs during an attack. Based on an adult dose of about 40 drops of the combined herbs, dose according to weight. For example, a 150-pound adult would get the full dose while a 50-pound child would get one-third the dose. Start with equal parts valerian and blue cohosh, then add just a few drops of lobelia, a powerful anti-spasmodic. (Important: Be careful not to overdose lobelia, which could cause vomiting, but acts as a catalyst to the other herbs.) A dose of this combination, diluted in a little water or juice, can be given every 15 minutes during an asthma attack.
The natural approach to asthma does not mean immediately withdrawing medication. Instead, introduce these natural therapies concurrent with asthma medicines. As these therapies strengthen the bronchial/lung area, less of the medication may be required, and with the guidance of your physician, can be slowly tapered off and replaced by the safe, natural supports. Eventually, by further strengthening the lungs and immune system, by eliminating poorly tolerated foods and by managing environmental issues, you may be able to withdraw even these natural supports.
You may find the natural approach to asthma management a bit overwhelming at first. That's understandable, since we are accustomed to the "silver bullet" approach: Let a magic pill do all the work. Take it one step at a time, make changes gradually and you will find encouragement in the positive results.
