Asthma is a chronic breathing disorder that affects an estimated 300 million people worldwide, as estimated by the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology. Traditional treatments include medications such as bronchodilators and steroids that open congested airways and soothe inflamed tissues. Holistic treatments for asthma can complement the medical approach by attending to asthma's emotional aspects, which are known to affect stress levels and the severity of asthma attacks.
Aromatherapy
Life stress and anxiety play a major role in the functioning of the immune system. Because asthma can be triggered by environmental factors such as allergies, any treatment that supports the immune system can alleviate asthma indirectly. Aromatherapy is an easy method of reducing stress, requiring only essential oils. Peppermint, lavender and eucalyptus oils are the three most popular essential oils for respiratory difficulties, according to the National Association for Holistic Aromatherapy. These can be applied in combination with massage oils, used in a steam bath, or heavily diluted to make a room-cleaning spray. Cedarwood and clary sage also have a calming effect on the mind, and can be applied to the chest in drops before showering to open the airways.
Massage
Like aromatherapy, massage affects not only the body but also calms the mind. Massage for asthmatics is helpful in reducing muscular tensions and anxiety. A 1998 study published in the Journal of Pediatrics reported that their study group of children with asthma had lower anxiety and increased air flow after 30 days of massage treatments. These treatments were given by parents for 20 minutes directly before bedtime, so parents can easily integrate this helpful practice into family routines.
Homeopathy
Western medicine rejects the claims of homeopathy, but the practice has maintained a solid and growing foothold in self-care for over a hundred years. In general, homeopathic treatments are benign herbal remedies taken in extraordinarily diluted forms. Homeopathic doctors have a holistic approach to wellness, as the emotional state and personality characteristics of the patient are taken into account. For asthma, homeopathic remedies address prevention as well as recovery from attacks, but not the actual acute episodes.
Although the scientific merit for homeopathy has not been established by traditional medicine advocates, some medical practitioners believe it is worth researching more due to its popularity in Complementary and Alternative Medicine (CAM). For example, a 2001 article in the Journal of Pediatric Nursing recommends open lines of communication between conventional care providers and parents of asthmatic children, as children respond well to homeopathic asthma remedies for unknown reasons. If you are new to homeopathy, always see a board-certified homeopathic practitioner first. Talking to your medical provider about this and other holistic self-care methods can also prevent unpleasant counter-indications in medications.
Although the scientific merit for homeopathy has not been established by traditional medicine advocates, some medical practitioners believe it is worth researching more due to its popularity in Complementary and Alternative Medicine (CAM). For example, a 2001 article in the Journal of Pediatric Nursing recommends open lines of communication between conventional care providers and parents of asthmatic children, as children respond well to homeopathic asthma remedies for unknown reasons. If you are new to homeopathy, always see a board-certified homeopathic practitioner first. Talking to your medical provider about this and other holistic self-care methods can also prevent unpleasant counter-indications in medications.
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