If you have asthma, you probably have medicine to treat it. On the other hand, you might be the type of person who chooses to treat the condition naturally. That is your right. Interestingly, there are home remedies for asthma that you may not know about that can help asthma attacks and reduce symptoms. This article is for informational purposes only and is not a recommendation for the treatment of asthma. Proper medical care is needed, and that can only be obtained from a licensed physician. Despite this, these home remedies for asthma often work very well.
the power of tea
One of the first drugs used to treat asthma was theophylline. Actually, it is still used, although rarely. Theophylline comes from tea (camellia sinensis). Both green and black tea contain this compound and can quickly relieve asthma symptoms. Many people find quick relief with a large cup of hot green tea. Only high-quality tea contains enough theophylline to make a difference, so generic tea bags won’t necessarily work as home remedies for asthma.
Coffee comes to the rescue
One of the most popular drinks in the world is coffee. It is high in caffeine, which is another compound that can relieve asthma symptoms. Caffeine is found in certain over-the-counter asthma remedies along with theophylline, which was mentioned above. This is a useful home remedy for asthma that most people have on hand at all times.
Herbs and spices are secret remedies for asthma
Would you believe there are home remedies for asthma in your spice cabinet? Common herbs and spices used in cooking can relieve asthma symptoms. In fact, they have been used for centuries for this purpose. These herbs and spices include oregano, thyme, basil, ginger, cumin, anise seed, cloves, mustard seed, mint, and cardamom. It’s best to use these herbs fresh, but dried herbs will work just as well. Simply steep a tablespoon in boiling water for 10 minutes and drink. Oregano, thyme, and cumin are probably the best. It may not taste great, but it can work in a pinch (not a serious emergency).
Other home remedies for asthma
Some people are familiar with the idea of standing in a very hot shower to ease the symptoms of an asthma attack. If you don’t, here’s the surprise: If you don’t have anything else, go to your bathroom, close the door, and put a towel under the door gap. Turn on the shower to the highest heat level and open the curtain. Sit on the edge of the bathtub or on the (closed) toilet and breathe in the steam that builds up for as long as you can stand it. It works in most cases. If not, dial 911.
Another home remedy is to boil mint leaves in a pot of water and inhale the steam with a towel covering your head to the top of the pot. Menthol vapors can open the bronchi. Again, please note that these methods are not recommended as a cure or treatment. If symptoms worsen, seek medical attention.