Asthma kills thousands of people in the world each year, and the number grows as air quality decreases.
Herbs that can be used to treat asthma are:
1. Lobelia. Lobelia is both a bronchial dilator and antispasmodic that can help reduce dependency on pharmaceutical inhalers. This is a step-by-step process whereby 10-15 drops of lobelia tincture is taken on the tongue whenever one feels the desire to use the inhaler. Lobelia works by relaxing bronchiole muscles, allowing airways to open. Lobelia can lower blood pressure, so it’s contraindicated for those with very low blood pressure. Lobelia can be used to help quit cigarette smoking, by taking a few drops every time a cigarette is desired, along with high dosages (3-6 grams) of vitamin C each day. Stimulating expectorants have the capacity to cause vomiting, which in some cases may be necessary to clear out the lungs; lobelia is such an expectorant, so keep dosages small.
2. American ephedra (Ephedra americanus, also referred to as joint-pine or Brigham Young tea). American ephedra is a milder bronchial dilator than its Chinese cousin and can be used safely when made as an infusion and sipped by the half-cupful throughout the morning and afternoon (not to exceed two cups a day for adults).
3. Chinese ephedra or Ma huang (E. chinensis). The healing herb Chinese ephedra (Ma Huang) has been a source of conflict and confusion due to its misuse and consequent harm to those who have taken it in improper dosages or in combination with the excessive circulatory stimulants in weight-loss supplements. More effective for severe asthma due to its higher levels of ephedrine, Ma Huang is best used with other supporting herbs.
Other herbs that dilate bronchioles are:
Yerba matte (Ilex paraguariensis);
Coffee bean;
Cola nut (Cola spp.).
Antispasmodics include:
Grindelia;
Skunk cabbage rhizome;
Cherry bark.
