Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease Natural Treatments

Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) is a group of lung disorders that restrict airflow by causing airway obstruction and produce difficulty breathing. This is a progressive condition, which means that it will get worse over time. COPD consists of two main conditions, emphysema and chronic bronchitis. Some people may have one condition or the other while others suffer from both. Smoking is the main cause for a majority of cases. Many natural treatments can alleviate the symptoms of COPD but at this time this condition can only be managed and not cured.

Treatments for Chronic Bronchitis

American and Siberian ginseng help clear bronchial passages and reduce inflammation. Use in tincture form and take as directed on the label. Using both will provide maximum benefit. Bromelain liquefies and lessens bronchial secretions. Take 500 milligrams two or three times a day between meals. Couch grass tea relieves inflammation. Drink 1 cup four times a day. Elecampane tea stimulates coughing and helps expel mucus from the lungs. It also fights bacteria. Drink 1 cup four times daily. Fenugreek tea or capsules reduce flow of mucus. Take both as directed. Lobelia eases bronchial congestion. Take 1,000 milligrams for no more than two weeks at a time. Plaintain seed tea loosens phlegm. Drink 1 cup three times a day.

Avoid American ginseng if you have high blood pressure or any heart condition. Do not use Siberian ginseng if suffering from prostate cancer or any autoimmune diseases like lupus or rheumatoid arthritis. People with pineapple allergies can experience a rash when taking bromelain. Discontinue use if a rash appears. Do not use plantain within an hour of taking other medicines.

Treatment for Emphysema

Astragalus speeds healing in the bronchial tubes and promotes better breathing. Take either capsules or fluidextract as directed on the label. Ephedra alleviates shortness of breath, chest tightness and wheezing. Use the well known natural Chinese formula Clear Lungs as directed on the label. Horsetail helps repair and maintain lung tissue. Take 10 to 20 drops of tincture in cup of water three times a day. Myrtle loosens mucus. Take capsules as directed on the label. Quercetin strengthens the lung's ability to handle dust and particle pollution. Take 250 milligrams three times a day.

Do not use ephedra if suffering from anxiety, glaucoma, heart disease, high blood pressure, insomnia or prostate disease. Do not use quercetin if taking Neoral, Sandimmune or Procardia.