The exact cause of asthma is unknown. However, triggers can be avoided to prevent asthma attacks. In addition to taking medication, there are also various natural asthma remedies that can be used to prevent shortness of breath, coughing, and wheezing that occur during an asthma attack.
Besides being readily available, natural asthma remedies can also be a complementary therapy to maximize the effectiveness of existing asthma medications. However, these natural remedies cannot replace medications prescribed by a doctor.
Various Natural Asthma Remedies
Natural asthma remedies can relieve asthma in various ways, from reducing inflammation in the airways, widening the airways, to maintaining the balance of bacteria in the stomach. Here are some natural asthma remedies:
1. Coffee
The benefits of coffee as a natural asthma remedy are derived from its caffeine content. Caffeine can widen the airways, allowing air to flow more smoothly. The effects of caffeine as a natural asthma remedy are similar to those of theophylline and can last up to 4 hours.
Consuming 1–2 cups of coffee is believed to prevent asthma relapses. However, this still requires further research to confirm its effectiveness.
2. Garlic
Garlic contains the compound allicin, which has anti-inflammatory properties. Thanks to this compound, garlic is often used to treat various inflammatory diseases, one of which is asthma.
To reap its benefits, simply boil a few cloves of garlic until boiling, then drink the boiled water when it cools. You can also add more garlic to your cooking to reap its benefits as a natural asthma remedy.
3. Ginger
The benefits of ginger as a natural asthma remedy are also supported by the anti-inflammatory properties of the compounds gingerol, shogaol, and paradol. Not only does ginger reduce inflammation in the airways, but it is also known to relax the tracheal muscles. This will widen the airways and improve airflow.
To reap the benefits of ginger as a natural asthma remedy, try making ginger tea by boiling 1 piece of bruised ginger until it boils. Then, drink the ginger tea while it's still warm.
4. Fish oil
Fish oil, which is rich in omega-3s, can reduce inflammation and improve lung function in people with severe asthma. Furthermore, omega-3s can also prevent airway obstruction that can lead to asthma flare-ups.
To use fish oil as a natural asthma remedy, you can take supplements, which are widely available at pharmacies. However, make sure you choose supplements that have received marketing authorization from the Food and Drug Authority (BPOM) and consume them according to the instructions on the packaging.
5. Eucalyptus Oil
The compounds in eucalyptus oil are known to reduce inflammation of the respiratory tract, making it an effective natural asthma remedy. However, its use as a natural asthma remedy should be consulted with a doctor, as it can trigger asthma attacks in people who are allergic to eucalyptus oil.
You can use this natural asthma remedy by mixing 2–3 drops of eucalyptus oil into a bucket of warm water. Lean your head over the bucket and place a towel over your head, covering it and the bucket. Then, inhale the steam from the eucalyptus oil for 5–10 minutes.
Alternatively, you can mix 2–3 drops of eucalyptus oil with a carrier oil, then apply it to your chest and inhale the aroma for 15–20 minutes.
6. Honey
Besides being a natural flu remedy, honey is also effective as a natural asthma remedy. These benefits are due to honey's anti-inflammatory properties, which can improve respiratory function, especially in the lungs, and reduce asthma symptoms and relapses.
You can consume 2 tablespoons of honey daily to reap its benefits as a natural asthma remedy. You can also mix honey into the other natural asthma remedies mentioned above.
If your asthma doesn't improve despite trying the natural remedies mentioned above, consult a doctor immediately. This examination will allow your doctor to assess your condition and prescribe appropriate flu medication.