How to Treat COPD with Alternative Therapies

Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease or COPD, encompasses two lung diseases: chronic bronchitis and emphysema. Symptoms include a continuous cough that may produce clear sputum, shortness of breath, and tightness in the chest. This is a disease that may gradually get worse over time. While there is no known cure for COPD, its symptoms can be eased by using alternative therapies.

Instructions

1. Inhaled glutathione therapy has helped many people who suffer from COPD, and has been known to ease many of the symptoms that accompany the disease. A form of glutathione, which comes in a saline solution, is administered by inhaling it from a nebulizer. This is usually done twice a day.

2. Consider homeopathy to help relieve your COPD symptoms. Ipecacunha, adrealinum, natrum sulphiricum and other homeopathic remedies have been used to improve respiratory health and improve lung function. The remedy you are prescribed depends upon your individual set of symptoms. Get in touch with a licensed, board-certified homeopath in your area to find out what will work best for you.

3. Use herbs that can help alleviate some of your COPD symptoms. They can make your lungs clearer, detoxify your body, get rid of inflammation, ease shortness of breath and more. Some especially beneficial herbs include mullein, fenugreek, garlic, cayenne, slippery elm bark, astragalus, yerba santa, ginger and ginkgo biloba. If you choose to use any of these, however, you need to check with your doctor or pharmacist about any possible drug interactions. You should also know the proper amount of individual herbs you should take, in order to avoid the risk of toxicity. Taken wisely, many herbs can be of tremendous help to COPD patients.

4. Give shiatsu massage a try. This type of massage, involving finger pressure, can relax you and make it easier for you to breathe. Check to see if there is a licensed massage therapist in your area who is experienced in shiatsu.

5. Pay attention to your nutrition. Eat foods that contain a lot of omega-3 fatty acids, like tuna, mackerel and salmon. Make sure you are getting plenty of fiber in your diet, as well as vegetables, fruits and whole grains. Eat smaller meals throughout the day, rather than overloading. Avoid eating dairy products, as they will increase the mucus buildup in your lungs.