Question:
Can anyone suggest herbal remedies for asthma. I want to forgot using my
inhaler. I went to my health foods store and they recommended lobelia
inflata. Had anyone tried this in tincture form? How does it work?
Answer:
Look in to adaptogenic herbs to support your adrenal glands. Also vitamin C
with bioflavonoids, especially quercetin.
Lobelia is used in asthma attacks, not to prevent them. It relaxes the lungs so
they do not spasm. Though you have to be real careful with dosage. Too much
will make you vomit.
Another old treatment in an emergency is a strong cup of coffee or black tea.
Caffeine, theophylline, and other xanthines block the breakdown of cyclic
adenosine monophosphate (cAMP). The cAMP counters asthma attacks. This is why
theophylline is used in hospitals for the treatment of asthma.
Jujube date seeds are a source of cAMP, and ephedra (ma huang) and coleus
forskohlii stimulate the production of cAMP.
There is at least a start for your research.
Lobelia inflata is indeed used for Asthma, however it is a restricted herb
and only available to practitioners of herbal medicine.
Herbs that are used for asthma include Inula, Thyme & Mint.
I would suggest that you consult a qualified herbalist who can work with you
as an individual and prescribe the appropriate herbs for you.
