Simple home remedies for diseases are very popular with patients of chronic diseases. But do they work? Well, the answer is: “It depends on the disease.” They will work very little, if at all, for diseases like malaria or pneumonia. For other diseases like diabetes and joint problems, home remedies work quite well.

What about Asthma?

Home remedies are certainly useful in asthma. That is not to say that they can substitute inhalers. Inhalers should not be stopped without asking your doctor. But a lot can be gained by following these simple time tested remedies.

Certain simple food items are helpful in asthma. These are easily available in any household or kitchen. Practical experience tells us that the following are helpful:

Ginger: A mixture of ginger, pomegranate juice and honey had in the morning helps in clearing the phlegm. Ginger paste and honey in a spoon can also be used. Ginger can be put in the tea.

Honey: Honey helps in reducing the cough in asthma. It could be mixed with cinnamon powder or mixed with warm water and drunk.

Mustard oil: Gently heated mustard oil, sometimes mixed with a little camphor, can be applied over the chest. This is particularly good for younger children.

Figs: Three figs, soaked in water overnight, can be had in the morning. The water is also drunk.

Garlic: 1 or 2 cloves per day of garlic are advisable for asthma patients.

Coffee: Coffee and tea are good for asthma patients. In has good bronchodilator properties and also clears the congestion.

Eucalyptus oil: Helps in clearing nasal congestion.

Inhaling clean fresh air, having a generally healthy diet, avoiding junk foods and exercising (particularly swimming) are some of the other simple things which help asthma patients.
During aggravation of asthma, before medical help is sought, certain simple home remedies can lessen the attack.

These are:
· Don’t panic. Remain calm.
· Sit in an upright position slightly bent forwards and with the shoulders hunched.
· Drink warm fluids. Clear soup, tea or coffee or even warm water
· Breathe slowly and deeply rather than shallow and fast breaths.
· Take the dose of your quick relief inhaler, as told by your asthma doctor.
· Seek medical help.