Natural Treatments for Asthma 

Overview 

Asthma is a respiratory condition characterized by intermittent spasms of the smooth muscle that surrounds the bronchial tubes, inflammation of the lining of the lungs, shortness of breath, chronic cough and the production of a thick mucous discharge. It is the most common chronic pulmonary disorder in the US affecting approximately 3-5% of the total population, with the highest rate of occurrence being in children under 10 years of age. However, the incidence of asthma has increased in recent years and appears to remain steadily on the rise. While the majority of asthma cases are relatively manageable, some cases can be severe. In fact, according to the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology, approximately 5,000 deaths occur in the US annually due to asthma attacks leading to respiratory arrest. 

There are two categories of asthma: extrinsic (or atopic) and intrinsic. Extrinsic asthma is an allergic disorder in which elevated blood levels of the IgE antibody are typically present. This form of asthma is usually triggered by food allergies, dust, animal dander, pollen and mold spores. Intrinsic asthma, on the other hand, usually occurs in response to secondary triggers, such as being exposed to cold air, environmental toxins, physical exertion or emotional distress. 

Both types of asthma involve inflammation of specialized cells that reside in the bronchial tubes and the lining of the lungs, collectively known as mast cells, lymphocytes, and eosinophils. When triggered by an allergen, these cells are stimulated to slowly release what is referred to as inflammatory mediators, specifically histamine and leukotrienes. These mediators then bind with cell receptors in the bronchial tubes where a chain reaction takes place that results in increased mucous secretion, constriction of bronchial smooth muscle, and the restriction of oxygen intake due to air becoming trapped in the alveoli (air sacs) of the lungs.

What Causes Asthma Attacks? 

While this list is by no means complete, the following factors are some of the most common culprits that contribute to asthma attacks: 

-         Food additives

o       Coloring agents

o       Sulfites

-         Food sensitivities

o       Animal products, including dairy

o       Nuts

o       Shellfish

-         Animal Dander

-         Dust mites

-         Tree and grass pollen

-         Mold (indoor and outdoor)

-         Exposure to the pertussis (whopping cough) vaccine

-         Certain medications

o       Excessive use of beta-blockers

o       NSAIDS can lead to aspirin-induced asthma

-         Strong odors

o       Cooking odors, paint fumes, perfumes, etc.

o       First or second hand cigarette smoke

-         Environmental toxins

o       Air pollution

o       Water contaminates

-         Emotional reactions

o       Crying and even laughing

o       Stress

-         Family history of asthma

Adrenal function is also believed to play a role in asthma patients since the adrenal gland is responsible for producing the hormones cortisol and epinephrine, which stimulate beta-2 receptors in bronchial tissue to promote the relaxation of airways. During an asthma attack, the production and release of these hormones becomes inhibited, leading to further bronchial restriction. 

Strategies for the Natural Management of Asthma 

One of the most important things one can do to manage asthma and its symptoms is to minimize exposure to environmental allergens. Depending on severity, this may mean eliminating carpeting (including throw rugs), draperies and even upholstered furniture—any material that can collect and trap dust mites and dander.  

Unfortunately, it may also be necessary to find another home for any existing pets, even if they are so-called ‘shed-proof.’ In fact, it’s a common misconception that an exception can be made for breeds of cats and dogs reputed to shed little or no hair. However, it isn’t the animal’s fur (or feathers) that can spur an allergic response; it’s the dander on the animal’s skin. 

In addition, try to only use bedding (sheets, pillow cases, mattresses, etc.) made from hypoallergenic materials. It is also helpful to install air purification systems that use HEPA (high-efficiency particulate arresting) filters. These devices can be stand-alone appliances strategically placed throughout the home, or those designed to adapt your central air and heating systems. 

Dietary Considerations 

Avoid food allergens commonly associated with triggering asthma symptoms. Eggs, shellfish and nuts (particularly peanuts) are often responsible for immediate onset sensitivity, usually in that order. Likewise, delayed onset of asthma symptoms are often attributed to milk, chocolate, wheat, citrus fruits and juice and food colorings. 

Consider eliminating all animal products in favor of a vegan diet. Dietary arachidonic acid, obtained exclusively from consuming animal products, is a precursor to the synthesis of leukotrienes and prostaglandins, which significantly contribute to allergy-induced asthma. One long-term trial involving 25 subjects showed a 71% marked reduction of symptoms after four months of being meat and dairy-free. For subjects that continued the vegan diet for a full year, 92% experienced improvement or complete abatement of symptoms. 

The elimination of food additives is also important. The most common food dyes that are troublesome for asthma sufferers are tartrazine and amaranth. In the preservatives category, strive to avoid sodium benzoate, 4-hydroxybenzoate esters and sulfites.

Recommended Supplements in the Treatment of Asthma

Antioxidants 

Researchers have found that antioxidants may prevent long-term damage of bronchial and lung tissue by reducing oxidative stress that accompanies asthma. 

For instance, a vitamin C deficiency is associated with a higher incidence of asthma and related oxidative stress. In fact, several studies have shown that increasing vitamin C intake may relieve symptoms. Vitamin C is normally found in abundance in airway passages with the specific purpose of stimulating chemotaxis, or the ability of white blood cells to respond to invading bacteria and infection. Adequate reserves of vitamin C also prevent histamine release. Of particular interest is the impact of vitamin C on exercised-induced asthma (EIA). Study subjects often report that daily supplementation of vitamin C results in significantly fewer EIA episodes. 

Vitamin E inhibits the production of leukotrienes, one of the primary inflammatory mediators that bind to receptor sites to trigger asthma symptoms, including secondary symptoms associated with allergic rhinitis, or hay fever. 

Bioflavonoids 

Quercetin, a flavonoid found in onions, wine and tea, inhibits the production and release of leukotrienes and histamine. Its ability to do so may be due to the fact that its chemical makeup is similar to that of cromolyn, an inhaled anti-inflammatory and mast cell stabilizer sometimes prescribed for asthma. 

Other flavonoids, such as lycopene from tomatoes and pycnogenol obtained from French maritime pine bark, have also shown an ability to improve respiratory function and reduce inflammation in asthma patients in recent studies. 

B Vitamins 

Vitamin B-12 plays a major role in blocking the allergic response driven by the consumption of sulfites in processed foods and beverages. Its mechanism of action is to promote the manufacture of a sulfite-cobalamin complex, which neutralizes the allergic effects of sulfites. Since sulfite sensitivity is so prevalent among children, many health care practitioners consider vitamin B-12 therapy a primary goal in the treatment of childhood asthma. 

Minerals 

Studies have revealed that many chronic asthma sufferers have a deficiency in selenium, as well as reduced glutathione activity. Selenium is necessary for the body to manufacture glutathione peroxidase, an enzyme that naturally decreases the production of leukotrienes. One study involving pregnant women with low serum selenium levels revealed a higher incidence of asthma in their newborns compared to other infants, suggesting that adequate selenium intake may be key to a reduced risk of asthma. 

Magnesium, also a prominent resident of airway passage lining, has been studied for its value in reducing asthma symptoms in children. Several studies have shown that children who supplemented with magnesium were able reduce the need to use inhalers. It is also interesting to note that asthma patients are prone to magnesium deficiency. 

Fish Oils 

Omega-3 fatty acids, most notably eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexanoic acid (DHA), not only decrease the effect of arachidonic acid, but also reduce leukotriene synthesis from the form most responsible for causing inflammatory response (4-series) to the lesser form (5-series). For this reason, omega-3 supplementation is well recognized as a beneficial supplement in the treatment of asthma. In addition, a 2003 study on the effectiveness of omega-3 in preventing asthma showed similar protective qualities as previous studies with selenium supplementation. The researchers found a lower incidence of asthma in infants born to women who supplemented with omega-3 during pregnancy. However, fish oil (from which omega-3 is derived) has also been linked to accelerating symptoms in subjects who are prone to aspirin-induced asthma. Therefore, omega-3 supplementation may not be suitable for individuals with aspirin sensitivity.

Herbal Therapies in the Treatment of Asthma

Ginkgo biloba 

Ginkgo biloba extract, standardized to contain 24% terpenoid ginkgolides, has been shown to improve respiratory function and reduce bronchial inflammation and constriction. The mechanism of ginkgolides is to compete for binding sites with another inflammatory mediator known as PAF, or platelet activating factor. Ginkgo is also a rich source of beneficial flavonoids, which have also demonstrated an ability to reduce the severity and frequency of asthma symptoms. 

Garlic 

Garlic, as well as other members of the allium family, reduces production of lipoxygenase, arachidonic acid and cyclooxygenases, all of which are responsible for the production of inflammatory prostaglandins. 

Borage Oil 

The seeds of the borage plant contain gamma-linolenic acid, a type of fatty acid that stabilizes the metabolism of prostaglandins and leukotrienes to reduce inflammatory response. In fact, researchers have found that GLA from borage oil regulates these substances in a similar way as Zileuton, a prescription asthma medication. 

Licorice 

The anti-inflammatory action of glycyrrhetinic acid, the main constituent of licorice root, is well documented. Several studies have demonstrated that glycyrrhetinic acid blocks the production of leukotrienes and prostaglandins with efficacy comparable to that of corticosteroids, such as prednisone. As an added benefit, licorice also promotes expulsion of mucous and is therefore an effective expectorant. 

Safety Precautions 

For most people, supplementing with vitamins, minerals and botanical therapies is generally safe. However, just as with any over-the-counter or prescription medication, certain conditions or circumstances may be present which may present an unsafe interaction with these natural substances. For this reason, we provide the following information so that you may discuss your course of treatment with your doctor and make an informed decision regarding your health care. 

First and foremost, always consult with your health care practitioner before undertaking a supplement regimen. 

Discontinue supplementing with all minerals, nutrients and herbs at least two weeks prior to undergoing any surgical treatment.

In addition: 

-         You should not supplement with vitamin C if you have sideroblastic anemia, sickle cell anemia, or a history of kidney stones.

-         Avoid supplementing with vitamin E if you are taking warfarin (Coumadin), or if you have a vitamin K deficiency or liver disease.

-         Avoid high doses (1000 micrograms or more per day) of selenium. Prolonged supplementation of selenium can lead to selenium poisoning, characterized by brittle nails and hair loss.

-         Do not take magnesium supplements if you have kidney disease or myasthenia gravis (an autoimmune neuromuscular disorder).

-         EPA and DHA from omega-3 can increase the risk of bleeding if taken with warfarin (Coumadin).

-         Consistent use of ginkgo biloba should be avoided if you are diabetic, at risk for seizures, hypertension, or currently taking NSAIDS, blood thinners, diuretics, or SSRI’s.

-   Do not supplement with GLA (borage oil) if you are currently taking warfarin (Coumadin) due to an increased risk of bleeding.