Despite doctor prescribed medication, asthmatics often also seek alternative means of controlling their respiratory problems. With the increase of pharmaceutical product prices along with the increase in irritants both in the air and in homes, it stands to reason that many asthmatics want a more natural way to handle their condition. Here are a few home remedies to help manage asthma:

1. Asthma Diet
There are no foods that mitigate asthma symptoms, however, there are many that could help improve breathing and reduce mucus buildup in the airways, such as:

• Increase your intake of Vitamin D: Low Vitamin D levels are bad for asthma. Eat a lot of eggs, fish, and milk.
• Fresh fruits and vegetables: These contain antioxidants that help toward reducing lung inflammation and irritation caused by free radicals.
• Pass on sulfites: These are preservatives in pre-packaged and processed foods that trigger asthma symptoms.
• Pass on allergy-triggers: Allergic reactions to foods are known to cause asthma symptoms.
• Maintain a healthy weight: Overweight and obesity can cause asthma attacks. Even if you only lose five to ten pounds, it will help. Eat properly to lose and maintain the weight.

2. Buteyko breathing technique
The Buteyko breathing technique emphasizes inhaling warm, humidified, and clean air through the nose as well as exhaling through the nose. The breaths are timed in 30 second intervals. The nose is then held between the fingers to control how long a breath can be held. Twenty-five seconds indicates more work is needed. The aim is to reach a comfortable hold of 40 seconds. Mouth breathing reduces the flow of the airway which results not only in breathing problems but in sleep problems as well. Nose breathing with the tongue on the roof of the mouth enlarges the airway.

3. Garlic
This herb contains Vitamin C which helps to neutralize free radicals that cause inflammation. The herb contains over twice as much Vitamin C than foods like tomatoes. Moreover, foods rich in Vitamin C cause the breakdown of histamine. This is a natural substance emitted by the immune system to fight incoming allergens. Histamine causes the inflammation of the lung tissues. Not only this, but garlic helps the body to create molecules called prostacyclins. These aid in keeping the airways in the lungs open so asthmatics can breathe easier.

4. Ginger
Some studies have been done on both humans and animals that have shown the herb to act as a bronchodilator. It acts as an anti-inflammatory and antioxidant, both of which ease inflammation in the airways. The herb even has a soothing effect on the airway muscles.

5. Honey
Everyone is aware that this sweet treat is good for the cough and sore throat of colds and flu. Asthmatics, however, might not be aware of its benefits for respiratory problems. Honey is an anti-inflammatory. The swelling of lung tissues and the resulting shortness of breath are familiar to asthmatics. Respiratory infections are similar in symptoms to asthma, so this sweet liquid might be of help.

6. Omega-3 fats
Studies show that omega-3 or fish oils morph into a wall that stops inflammation cold but doesn’t stop the immune system. It decreases IgE or the substance triggers allergic reactions and asthma. These oils are found in salmon, flaxseed oil, tuna, walnuts, and anchovies.