Asthma is a chronic respiratory disorder that affects young children, adults, and seniors. Its common symptoms of include coughing, wheezing, breathlessness, and chest tightness. While there is no permanent cure, it is possible to manage the condition to a point where the symptoms become negligible. This can be done with simple home remedies, healthy lifestyle changes, and even prescriptions for asthma control. Read on to know more about managing asthma.

Food changes to make to manage asthma

Drink coffee
Coffee is one of the most commonly consumed beverages in the world. Americans, on average, consume at least three cups of coffee a day. Interestingly, caffeine mimics the effect of a mild bronchodilator, a type of prescription that eases breathing problems. Clinical research suggests caffeine has significant properties to counter and fight respiratory muscle fatigue. This is a discomfort one might experience during or after performing some physical activity with asthma. Coffee is also an excellent antioxidant that counters inflammation when consumed in moderation.

Use eucalyptus oil
Eucalyptus oil is one of the most potent essential oils suggested among other home remedies for asthma symptoms management. A few drops of the extract can relieve cough, clear chest congestion, and improve breathing. It is also effective against sinusitis, among other known respiratory disorders. The oil can be added to a steamer or diffuser, and inhaling this vapor helps loosen up the mucus. It also loosens the mucous membrane to promote better nasal breathing. Eucalyptus oil is one of the active ingredients found in over-the-counter vapo-rubs.

Apply mustard oil
Mustard oil can be used as a topical application to relieve some of the known symptoms of asthma. One can make a homemade paste by mixing mustard oil and rock salt and apply it to the chest to ease breathing during a major asthma attack. There are many recipes to prepare this mix. But ideally, just two spoons of oil mixed with three spoons of salt creates a potent paste. It is effective for mild to moderate asthma attacks. However, do consult with the doctor first, as some ingredients may cause skin irritation or trigger an allergic reaction.

Include honey in your meals
Honey is one of the most commonly used ingredients for managing coughs and sore throats. It is rich in anti-inflammatory properties and promotes saliva production. Saliva is an excellent natural lubricant for the airways, helping ease irritation. It also counters inflammation to manage any swelling. Honey, when mixed with hot beverages, works better as a cough suppressant.

Add ginger to your food
Ginger is another potent anti-inflammatory compound that helps relax the airways and counters inflammation. Natural ginger extracts are available in the form of oral supplements or liquid extracts. Fresh ginger can also be used to make herbal teas. Alternatively, dried ginger root can be used in daily cooking.

Try tea tree oil
Asthma flare-ups can also happen due to common allergies. When the immune system defends the body from potential infection, white blood cells release histamine into the bloodstream. Some people develop an allergic reaction during the process. Studies reveal that tea tree oil can help suppress the inflammatory response that is triggered due to the release of this chemical. Similar to tea tree oil, lavender oil can also help decrease known asthma symptoms.

Use turmeric while cooking
Turmeric is one of the most widely used spices for cooking. It contains an active compound called curcumin that gives turmeric its bright golden hue. Turmeric is naturally rich in anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that actively combat many known discomforts of asthma. The spice helps relieve airway obstruction and mainly eases breathing. Turmeric can also be mixed with certain beverages or can be consumed in moderation in the form of supplements. Either way, it is beneficial to include this spice in daily foods.

Alternative changes in lifestyle
Home remedies for asthma apart, there are several simple lifestyle changes that can also help ease discomforts and manage the condition to improve one’s quality of life.

• Lower stress
  Stress is one of the main silent triggers of asthma flare-ups. Being stressed constantly releases harmful cortisol in the body that can also worsen the symptoms linked to several known medical conditions. It is necessary to practice stress relieving techniques like deep breathing, mindfulness, and meditation regularly.
• Healthy habits
  One should consider quitting the use of any intoxicants and try to maintain a healthy body weight. Keeping physically active and taking adequate rest at night will also help boost immunity to better manage the symptoms.
• Alternative forms of exercise
  Tai Chi, an ancient Chinese form of slow-moving exercise, can be effective in improving lung function. It also helps counter inflammation, one of the common markers of asthma flare-ups. Practicing yoga has also helped introduce various benefits.

Other remedies
Home remedies will certainly help soothe many of the symptoms of asthma. But for long-term relief, doctors also suggest the following prescriptions approved by the FDA.

Fasenra®
A high concentration of eosinophils in the bloodstream increases the risk of inflammation. Fasenra® is prescribed for patients suffering from eosinophilic asthma. The prescription injection is an alternative to regular steroids and inhalers, administered only once every 8 weeks. It works by targeting and removing the eosinophils to improve breathing and lung function.

Nucala®
Nucala® is another prescription injection that works by targeting and reducing the eosinophils count in the bloodstream. It actively counters airway inflammation to reduce the risk of asthma flareups. Nucala® is administered once every four weeks and works in addition to the other remedies prescribed by the doctor for asthma.

Keep in mind that home remedies cannot cure asthma symptoms. It is advisable to immediately consult with a doctor if any of the common symptoms persist or trigger frequent asthma attacks.