Bernie Noe, ND

Naturopathic Physician

Take the Natural Route to Better Health

A Holistic Approach to the Treatment of Asthma

Asthma is a common condition which leads to breathing difficulty, coughing, and wheezing.  It is caused by a spasm of the small airways of the lung and the production of excess mucous, both of which impair the ability of the lungs to exchange air.  The severity of asthma symptoms can range from mild wheezing to life threatening breathing difficulties.  It affects about 3% of the US population, with children under the age of 10 being most at risk.

The natural treatment of asthma focuses on several key principles:  reducing allergic exposure, reducing the sensitivity and spasticity of the airways of the lungs, balancing the allergic/inflammatory pathways in the body, and correcting nutrient imbalances.

More than 90% of asthmatic children under the age of 16 are allergic, about 70% of asthmatics between the ages of 16 and 30 are allergic, and one half of those over 30 are allergic.  Reducing allergic exposure is therefore key to the treatment of asthma and includes avoiding not only airborne allergens such as molds, pollens, animal dander, and dust, but also food allergens such as dairy, eggs, and wheat.

The first step in reducing exposure to airborne allergens is to remove from the house dogs, cats, upholstered furniture, carpets, and rugs which can harbor allergens.  Dust mites, which are a very common allergic trigger, can be found in especially high amounts in carpets and also bedding.  While it may not be possible to remove all of these sources of allergens, the most important place to start is in the bedroom.  The second step is to limit the ability of the remaining sources to harbor allergens.  Mattresses can be encased in allergen-proof plastic, sheets and other bedding should be washed weekly in very hot water, and pets can be washed weekly.  The third step is to limit the amount that allergens become airborne.  Vacuuming, which increases airborne allergens for 30 minutes or so, is a primary source of airborne allergens.  Using a HEPA vacuum or having a non-allergic household member do the vacuuming are the best ways to limit this.  Finally, using an air filter can be a very effective way to remove allergens from the air.  Both HEPA and ionizing air purifiers work well, but ionization units should be chosen carefully for low ozone output, which is itself an irritant.

Food allergies are very common in people with asthma, especially when the asthma starts early in life.  A 1981 study of 284 asthmatic children found food sensitivities in 74.8% of the children.  Dairy, eggs, wheat, citrus, peanuts, and chocolate are the most common offenders, although any food eaten more than three times a week should be suspect.  Food allergies can be effectively diagnosed with either a blood test or an elimination/challenge diet.  Once the allergic foods are determined, they must be eliminated from the diet.

Reducing the spasticity of the airways of the lung is the second component of the natural treatment of asthma.  Magnesium is well known for its ability to relieve muscle spasm, and this includes the muscles that surround the airways of the lung.  Green tea and the herbal medicine Ma Huang are also effective bronchodilators.

Balancing the allergic/inflammatory pathways in the body is also very important.  Omega 3 oils, which are found in fish and flax seeds, is one very effective way to do this.  One study found that children who eat fish more than once per week have one third the risk of developing asthma as those who don’t eat fish regularly.  Avoiding tartrazine dyes (found in many artificial colorings), preservatives, aspirin, ibuprofen, and other non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs is also important as these substances promote the production of leukotrienes, which are potent inflammatory substances involved in asthma.  Other nutrients that reduce the production of leukotrienes include vitamin E and selenium.

Nutrients that are important in the treatment of asthma include vitamins C, B6, and B12, and the mineral molybdenum.  There have been 11 clinical studies since 1973 which have studied the use of vitamin C in the treatment of asthma, seven of which showed significant improvement.  Vitamin B12 and molybdenum both act to reduce sensitivity to sulfites, a common ingredient of restaurant foods which aggravates asthma in many people.

Finally, many people with asthma don’t produce enough stomach acid, a condition which can lead to food allergies and decreased nutrient absorption.  A 1931 study found that 80% of asthmatic children produce insufficient amounts of stomach acid.  This problem can be corrected with hydrochloric acid supplements.

While all of the above natural substances can be used individually, the greatest benefit comes from a comprehensive treatment program which includes the use of appropriate herbs, nutrients, dietary modifications, and allergen elimination.  Many people with mild to moderate asthma are able to reduce or even eliminate their need for prescription medications by following this approach.  Asthma medications should not, however, be discontinued without first consulting a physician, as this can lead to a life threatening emergency.

Asthma is a complex condition which is best managed using a comprehensive approach which includes dietary modifications, the appropriate use of herbal and nutritional supplements, and the treatment of any underlying conditions which may be exacerbating the condition. For more information on managing asthma naturally, see a naturopathic physician.