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Asthma is a chronic condition. Doctors are not sure why people get asthma, which affects 20 million Americans. During an attack, your bronchial tubes secrete mucus, making it hard to breathe. Asthma can cause wheezing, shortness of breath, coughing and tightness in your chest. These symptoms can kill you. Asthma triggers include viruses, pollution, exercise, allergies, stress, dust, chemical fumes and cigarette smoke.
Symptoms
- Wheezing
- Shortness of breath, sometimes just with exercise
- Tightness in the chest
- Coughing, which may occur only at night
A word of caution: Talk to your doctor before taking any supplement or herb. You have no way of knowing if your herb or supplement interferes with a health condition you have or a medication you take. You do not know about the purity or quality of a supplement, and much of the research on these substances is scant and questionable. Also, supplements in high concentrations can be dangerous. Your doctor is the best person to talk with about your concerns.
| Herb |
Claims |
Potential Interactions and Dangers |
Possible Side Effects |
What the Experts Say |
| Boswellia |
Can reduce the number of asthmatic attacks. |
Don't take if you have a history of stomach ulcers or gastroesophageal reflux disease. May interact with drugs such as montelukast (Singulair®). Also may interact with cholesterol-lowering drugs, medications to fight cancer and antifungal drugs. May even reduce the effectiveness of anti-inflammatory drugs. |
Generally well-tolerated. Side effects may include nausea, heartburn, stomach pain and diarrhea. |
Some evidence suggests that boswellia may help reduce the number of asthma attacks. Experts don't know how much is effective and safe. Be sure to talk to your doctor before taking this herb. |
| Omega-3 fatty acid supplements |
May reduce inflam-mation and improve lung function. |
Don't take omega-3 supplements if you have a bleeding disorder or take blood-thinners. More than 3 grams of omega-3 fatty acids a day, or three servings of fish, may put you at risk for stroke. |
Can cause flatulence and diarrhea. |
Some studies suggest omega-3 fatty acids supplements may help reduce inflammation and improve lungs. But there is no definite answer to date. The best bet is to skip the supplements and make sure your diet is rich in omega-3s by eating fish (such as salmon), flaxseed and pumpkin seeds. |
Dietary modifications
Some research suggests that a diet low in potassium and selenium may be connected with asthma. Skip the supplements and go with a diet containing whole grains, beans, lean meats and low-fat dairy foods. Be sure to get at least two servings a week of fatty fish. Some studies suggest onion, garlic and foods rich in vitamins C, E and beta-carotene may help symptoms.
Conventional treatments
Use medications prescribed by your doctor. Inhaled corticosteroids control and relieve inflammation associated with an asthma attack. Bronchodilators are fast-acting medications that relax the muscle around the airway. This reduces symptoms like wheezing, shortness of breath and trouble breathing.
Asthma is a serious disease that requires ongoing management and the correct treatment. If you are interested in trying an herb or supplement, talk to your doctor first.
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This article was reviewed and updated
June 2007.
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