Natural Remedies Against Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease

In addition to following the treatment proposed by the doctor and avoiding tobacco, whether we are active or passive smokers, there are certain foods that can help us improve this condition .

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is one of the most common lung conditions in the world. It is estimated that it affects about 5% of the world’s population and that it causes about 2 million deaths per year.

It is usually caused by exposure to tobacco smoke and can occur in both active and passive smokers. Although it is a health condition that should be given full attention, in addition to medical treatment, there are certain natural remedies that help relieve symptoms. Find out what they are. then.

What is chronic obstructive pulmonary disease?

Chronic obstructive disease (COPD) is an inflammatory lung condition that blocks the flow of air into the lungs. According to a Mayo Clinic publication, l The most frequent cause is cigarette smoking.

However, it can also be caused by prolonged exposure to gases that result from burning fuel for cooking and heating, in poorly ventilated homes. As for symptoms, these usually appear when there is already significant damage to the lungs. Among the most common signs of this problem are the following:

• Difficulty breathing.
• Chest tightness.
• Inflammation in the respiratory tract.
• Inflammation in the lungs.
• Unnecessary wear and tear of lung tissue.

Although e sta disease has no cure , there are some natural remedies that help treat and reduce your symptoms. Here are some of them.

Chuanxiong rhizome ( Ligusticum wallichii )

This is a plant that has been used in traditional Chinese medicine for centuries. Also, it is often used in acupuncture therapies to treat back problems. It is said that u None of its most popular effects is the ability to alleviate breathing problems caused by chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.

Currently, there are various presentations in which you can buy this rhizome, although it is most recommended to look for pasta alternatives. This is usually more easily found in health food stores.

Berries

The content of antioxidants and organic compounds obtained from berries may be helpful in boosting the immune system and respiratory function. In people living with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, their tissues often break.

Eating foods rich in antioxidants may help repair damaged cells and prevent them from mutating. Indeed, a publication in the European Respiratory Journal suggests that this type of food may be associated with an improvement in lung function. We recommend that you try blueberries and goji berries.

Ginseng

This is another of the best-known remedies around the world to treat countless health conditions. According to research in Chinese Medicine , when it comes to chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, consuming this herb could be effective in helping to reverse your symptoms. A good option is to include it as part of your morning smoothies or as an infusion .

Thyme

Respiratory tract infections are the most difficult type to treat. This means that reducing your symptoms and discomfort takes more effort and time than other infections. Thyme can be beneficial to combat some of the symptoms produced by these infections that usually last a long time.

Regarding its effects, an article in Biomedicine and Pharmacotherapy points out that thyme extract is effective in stimulating the elimination of mucus from the respiratory tract. In this way, it helps prevent this condition and helps reduce the severity of its symptoms. To take advantage of these benefits, try to include a cup of thyme tea three times a week.

Give up smoking

It is no secret to anyone that smoking is one of the leading causes of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and many more health problems. Although breaking this bad habit can be tricky, keep in mind that every time you smoke a cigarette you prevent your lungs from healing. Not stopping this habit facilitates the breakdown of lung tissues.

Take your medications on time

Because it is a delicate condition, medication is important to treat the symptoms. Therefore, it is essential to follow your doctor’s instructions precisely, either with the use of inhalers or bronchodilators.

If you interrupt your treatment or consume it at inappropriate intervals, it will take longer for the condition to heal. There is even the possibility that everything will get worse. Remember that these natural remedies are a supplement to medical indications, not a substitute. 

Eat smaller servings

When you eat very large servings of food, your intestines and stomach begin to increase in size. This puts more pressure on your lungs, making it harder for you to breathe normally. In case you are overweight or obese, try to fix it. This is vital to give your lungs the space it needs to perform its primary function.

Reduce your anxiety and stress levels

Excess anxiety and stress abnormally increase the amount of hormones in the body. This could make the symptoms of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease worse and deplete your energy stores. 

All of these natural remedies can help alleviate the signs and symptoms of COPD. However, it is vital to follow the doctor’s recommendations. Also, remember to notify him of any changes you make, either in your diet or in some habits. In this way, he will be able to better analyze the evolution of your case.