If you have asthma, you may be curious about the many alternatives or additions to prescription medication that people claim can help control symptoms. Social media is full of such claims, and it can sometimes be difficult to know what’s legitimate and what’s not. Because they have other known health benefits, for instance, herbs have been promoted for asthma relief.
“Asthma is a serious, chronic condition that requires careful management,” says Melinda Ring, MD, the executive director of the Osher Center for Integrative Health at Northwestern University in Evanston, Illinois. “While there’s growing interest in natural remedies, it's critical to recognize that herbs are not a replacement for conventional treatments like inhalers or corticosteroids,” Dr. Ring says. “Certain herbs may offer complementary benefits by reducing inflammation or supporting overall respiratory health, but they should always be used alongside, and not in place of, prescribed asthma medications."
Here’s a look at the purported benefits of herbal asthma relief, what herbs you can try, and how to use them safely.
“Natural remedies are becoming more popular as people look for ways to support their health holistically, often driven by a desire for fewer side effects and more personalized care,” says Ring. “Many individuals are seeking integrative approaches that combine conventional treatments with evidence-based natural therapies. Additionally, as research on the benefits of herbs and botanicals grows, people are more open to incorporating these options into their wellness routines, especially for chronic conditions like asthma.”
You can consume herbs and spices in various forms, including fresh or dried. There are also herbal teas for asthma and essential oils, which can be incorporated into lotions or balms for topical use, says Angel Luk, RDN, a registered dietitian-nutritionist in Vancouver, British Columbia. More research is needed to determine what methods are best, she adds.
“Unfortunately, there isn't enough research on the medical effectiveness of herbs and spices to make claims or recommendations about specific doses or their use overall in treating health conditions,” Luk says.
Natural asthma support remedies often incorporate ginger, turmeric, garlic, or eucalyptus. “While some herbs might offer extra support, they can’t control asthma or help during a flare-up and should never replace your regular medications,” says Raj Dasgupta, MD, a board-certified pulmonologist based in Los Angeles. “Asthma is serious, so always follow your doctor’s treatment plan.” If you are interested in using herbs this way, discuss it with your healthcare provider first. The following herbs have properties that may ease certain asthma symptoms.
“Garlic is known for its immune-modulating, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory properties, which may help support respiratory health,” Ring says, noting that it can be used in cooking or taken as a supplement.
When taken alongside prescription medications, herbs for asthma may benefit some people. Like all natural remedies, however, herbs have risks, and it’s important to talk to your doctor before making any changes to your treatment plan. Asthma is a serious condition, but it’s manageable with professional help.
Rohan Mankikar, MD, is the chief of pulmonary medicine at Huntington Hospital and practices on Long Island. Originally from New Jersey, Dr. Mankikar studied medicine at The Medical…