COPD or Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease has been found in a recent survey to be ranking fourth in the list of causes of death in the USA . This disease results in an obstruction of the airways which lead to the lungs of an individual. People suffering from this disease have severe shortness of breath or dyspnea in individuals. This disease is actually the result of smoking for many years. This disease of the respiratory tract gets aggravated also by the passive smoking by individuals and environmental toxins like cadmium and silica. Individuals suffering from this disease should have an in-depth knowledge on how to deal with the disease so as to get relief from the disease.
Top alternative medicines:
1. Olive leaf
Olive leaf has been found to be one of the most effective alternative medicines for the treatment of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease in individuals. The olive leaf has been found to be very effective in easing the symptoms of the respiratory disease. It helps in reducing the inflammation that is accompanied with this disease. It is also equally helpful in the prevention of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease related infections. The olive leaf is a naturally occurring antibiotic and has been found to be very useful in the treatment of this disease. It also has anti-viral, anti-bacterial and anti-inflammatory properties to help in fighting away the disease.
2. Cayenne
Cayenne is herb which has been found to improve the circulation in the individual and also aid in improving the breathing of the individual. A simple recipe can be followed by individuals to help them in getting rid of the respiratory disease and for increasing the circulation. For this an individual need a cup of water, one fourth teaspoon of cayenne, one tablespoon of apple vinegar and two tablespoons of honey. The ingredients must be mixed together and the individual can drink this mixture throughout the day to get relief from the condition.
3. Omega 3 fats
It has been found in recently conducted clinical studies that people should consume foods rich in omega 3 fats so as to help them in their breathing problems. The airway inflammation that occurs in this disease can be easily combated with the help of consuming these foods. Omega 3 polyunsaturated fatty acids can be found in oily fishes like cod, tuna, herring and sardine. It is also in flax seed, walnuts, canola oil and soybeans. Consuming foods rich in omega 3 fats therefore is very helpful for individuals suffering from this disease.
4. Fennel
Fennel is a licorice flavored herb which is very useful for the treatment of this respiratory disease. It has been found that fennel is used for the treatment of coughing due to acute and chronic bronchitis. It has also been found to very effective for the treatment of other lung conditions. Fennel can be administered to the individual with the disease in the form of syrup or made into a tea. An individual should speak with his doctor before deciding on the dosage of the herb.
5. Mullein
Mullein is the herb that is used extensively for the treatment of coughs and bronchitis. It also helps individuals in relieving symptoms from this respiratory disease. Mullein is usually used in the extract form or is also used as a powder in supplements. It is also included in various herbal medicines for the treatment of coughs. The main work of mullein on the respiratory organ is as an expectorant. It therefore helps to clear the lungs from congestion and mucus. Mullein is readily available at all stores.
6. Saiboku-to
This is a Japanese herb and has been found to be very useful in the treatment of this disease. In Japan this herb is used for the treatment of asthma and bronchitis. Saiboku-to is often mixed with licorice root, ginseng and other herbs and drunk to reduce the effects of coughing in individuals. It has been found to also aid in the reduction of inflammation of the airways which is also an outcome of the disease.
7. Monoterpenes
For the treatment of bronchitis, essential oil monoterpenes is used readily in aromatherapy. This essential oil is actually a mixture of various herbs. Eucalyptus, pine oil and citrus are the extracts used in making the essential oil monoterpenes. This has been found to be very helpful for people with chronic and acute bronchitis. It also relieves deep coughing in individuals. The effect of this oil is the same as antibiotics. It has been found to be very effective therefore in treating chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. People using homeopathic medicines should avoid using this oil for the treatment of this respiratory disease.
8. Elecampane
Elecampane has been found to treat individuals from this disease effectively. This herb is a member of the aster family and grows well in moist and shady conditions. The herb has a sweet and pungent taste of its own. The root of this plant is used for the treatment of various health problems, prime among which is chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. It not only helps in stimulating but also is helpful in cleaning. It therefore acts as a tonic for the mucus membranes of an individual. Elecampane is a powerful antiseptic, expectorant and has anti-inflammatory properties. Before consuming the herb it is better to consult the doctor about the dosage.
9. Colt’s foot
Colt’s foot is herb that is also very effective in combating this respiratory ailment. It is a perennial plant and has been used extensively for the treatment of various lung diseases. This herb is a member of the aster family and has a sweet taste. The whole plant and especially the leaves are used for various diseases in individuals. The herb acts as a diffusive expectorant, antispasmodic, sedative and demulcent remedy. Hence it becomes very effective for people with diseases like chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. It helps in the removal of mucus and debris from the lungs. Pregnant women should consult their doctor before taking this herb as this is an abortifacient and may be harmful for pregnant women.
