Effective Home Remedies For Asthma

By Jamie Sue Tan

What would an asthmatic do without inhalers? Inhalers are considered an asthmatic's best friend. But if you run out of supply and you had an asthma attack, you have to buy yourself some time. To do so, you can turn to a variety of home remedies. Note that these home remedies are not to become your primary treatment. It will only serve as your temporary reliever until "backup" arrives. It's best to prepare these for the meantime, just in case.

The home remedy that you need is one that has been tested and proven to work by asthmatics around the world. If you're looking for these kinds of remedies, there are actually only a few. Here are some examples of the most effective home remedies that can help you when you need them.

Coffee: Hot, dark, and preferably strong coffee is advised by doctors for asthmatics when there is an emergency. The main components that work to stop bronchial spasms, breaking down mucus, open up airways, and bring relief during emergency situations are theophylline and theobromine. About two cups of brewed coffee, if possible, can bring your asthma under control in a matter of minutes.

Honey: Preferably local, non-processed, and non-tampered honey has been found to have an aroma that helps relieve asthmatics by breaking down the mucus blocking the airways; thereby reducing inflammation caused by the exacerbation of your asthma. Simply put, inhaling the aroma of pure honey makes it easier for you to breathe. Besides the quick relief it gives you, honey can also be used in combination with your conventional medication for prevention. Two teaspoons of honey in a glassful of milk taken every night have bee found to prevent the occurrences of allergic reactions and nocturnal asthma attacks.

Steam: The easiest to produce and the most readily available home remedy you have is steam. If you happen to be in the worst scenario, with no medications, no coffee, and no honey, then you can settle for steam treatment; unless you have no water supply. Run the shower at its highest heat setting and allow the steam to linger in the bathroom. Inhale the steam that rises to get temporary relief until medical help arrives. Alternately, you can boil some water and put it in a bowl, pan, dish, or any other open container and inhale the steam that rises. Hot steam helps break down the mucus and relieve the airways to allow better airflow.

Keep in mind that home remedies are only to be considered in times of emergency. They may not be able to give you long-term relief, but it can help delay the worsening of your asthma attack while someone else runs to the pharmacy to buy your inhaler refills. - 31822

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