Asthma and Natural Asthma Remedies

Asthma is caused by constriction of the bronchi in the lungs due to spasms of the muscles surrounding the bronchi. This restricts the amount of air coming into and leaving the lungs. Constriction of the bronchi occurs as a result of excessive histamine that is produced by the body's immune system as an allergic response. High histamine levels also cause inflammation along the walls of the bronchi resulting in the narrowing of the passages.

Many asthmatic attacks are triggered by allergens, such as dust, mould spores, mites, animal hair or feathers, but the onset may equally be caused by cold air, or it may be preceded by an infection such as a cold. It is necessary for asthmatics to lower their histamine levels to avoid allergic reactions. Histamine causes constriction of the bronchi in the lungs and this will prevent sufficient air entering and leaving the lungs. It is also necessary to treat the immune system of the asthmatic as a weakened immune system can contribute towards allergic reactions to dust, animal hairs and other possible allergens. Remember that it is not natural to be allergic to these common everyday "allergens". The body's immune system is simply over reacting to these items by attacking them as if they were dangerous pathogens.

Treating asthmatics involves lowering histamine levels, reducing the spasms in the bronchi, a change in diet to eliminate possible allergic reactions and supporting the immune system. Foods containing preservatives such as Sodium Benzoate and Sulfur Dioxide e.g. dried fruit should also be avoided as these preservatives trigger asthma attacks. NB most cooldrinks contain Sodium Benzoate.

remedies:

Herbs: Grindelia, elecampane, comfrey, lobelia, mullein, passion flower, valerian.

Supplements: Probiotics. bioflavonoids, glyconutrients, l-cysteine, B-cornplex, cod liver oil, Vit A, colostrum.

Diet: Avoid foods containing preservatives such as Sodium Benzoate and Sulphur Dioxide e.g. dried fruit (look for sun dried fruit free of sulfur dioxide). NB most cool drinks contain Sodium Benzoate.

Hyperthyroidism and Natural Remedies

Hormones produced by the thyroid gland govern body temperature, heart rate, and body weight. When the thyroid (located in the neck) produces excessive amounts of hormones, the condition is known as hyperthyroidism. The many types of hyperthyroidism include Graves' disease and toxic nodular goiter. Trauma, medications, smoking, heavy metals and incorrect diet (fizzy drinks) are all involved in causing this debilitating condition. The condition may sometimes surfaces after an infection or pregnancy. The problem is more common among women and in people with a family history of hyperthyroidism.

Hyperthyroidism

Signs/Symptoms

Typical symptoms Include:

1. Nervousness
2. Anxiety
3. Mood swings
4. Restlessness
5. Rapid heartbeat
6. Sensitivity to heat
7. Trembling hands
8. Fatigue
9. Diarrhea or constipation

1. Constant hunger
2. Weight loss

Following an infection or a stressful event such as surgery, people with hyperthyroidism may develop a severe form of the condition called thyroid storm. Symptoms include:

1. Extremely high temperature
2. Severe diarrhoea leading to dehydration
3. Very rapid or irregular heartbeat
4. Exaggerated emotional swings
5. Coma

Without medical care, thyroid storm can end in death.

To determine the severity of the problem, your doctor will probably order a test for the amount of thyroid hormone in your blood. Other possible tests include: Thyroid Scan or a 24-Hour Urine Test .Your body burns extra energy when it has too much thyroid hormone, so keep it supplied with plenty of fuel. (Refer to Food Guide). Avoid or limit coffee, tea, soda, and other caffeinated beverages. Caffeine, like thyroid hormone, can cause anxiety.

Hyperthyroidism can cause diarrhea, which can lead to too much thyroid hormone increases perspiration, causing skin rashes and sores. Shower every day with cool water, making sure to wash between folds of skin. If you feel dizzy, take a bath or use a shower chair.

remedies:

Herbs: Kelp after / with meals, bugleweed, treat for Graves Disease or growths.

Supplements: Iodine (start with snail doses 1-2 drops 1- 2 x daily), multi minerals, biocombin tissue salts, calmag, Co Q10.

Coughs

Should one soothe coughs, stimulate coughs, or suppress coughs?   It is always preferable to focus on the underlying cause of the cough as removing the cause will obviously alleviate the cough.

Acute inflammatory conditions of the respiratory system can be treated with demulcents to soothe the inflamed tissue.

Coughing is a reflex response to anything blocking the airways. Usually this is mucous secreted by membranes lining the

respiratory tract. Such mucous secretions help protect the respiratory tract from any kind of irritant, trapping and flushing

out smoke particles, bacteria, and viruses. Clearing the mucous build up in the lungs is important but it is also necessary

to treat any underlying infection.

remedies:

Herbs:

Wet cough: Comfrey, mullein, lobelia.

Dry cough: Coltsfoot, plantain, lobelia, comfrey, marshmallow.

Supplements: Vit C, bee pollen, citrus bioflavonoids, colostrum, propolis,