COPD is where multiple lung diseases make it very difficult to get a breath because the airflow is blocked. Some symptoms of COPD include shortness of breath, a chronic cough, and wheezing. COPD needs to be treated by a doctor, but alongside medication prescribed, there are natural remedies to help with symptoms experienced with COPD:
1. Thyme
Although used in cooking, thyme can be a great way to help with symptoms of COPD. Thyme may help by relaxing the person’s airways, making it easier to breath or improve the amount of air in the lungs. This treatment is very accessible to try because most people already have this in their spice cabinet.
2. Turmeric
Turmeric, like thyme, is a spice used in the kitchen for dishes like curry. Turmeric is said to reduce inflammation in the airways, which helps those with COPD breathe easier. Since this is something found commonly in kitchens, this remedy may be one that is definitely doable for COPD sufferers.
3. Light exercise
COPD can cause severe weight and muscle loss, so eating a COPD diet high in nutritional value and lightly exercising will help with these effects. One way to exercise is to stretch. Stretching helps with flexibility and helps lengthen muscles. Also, light aerobic exercises can be a great way that exercise helps with COPD. When you do aerobic exercises, you usually use large muscle groups in a rhythmic way. This helps strengthen the lungs, which in turn can aid breathing issues.
4. Breathing exercises
Just like regular exercises, breathing exercises may help with living with COPD. Breathing exercises help strengthen muscles used when breathing. This can help can help the amount of air you can breathe in, and it can make breathing easier in general. Take two breaths in through your nose, then breathe out through your nose again for four seconds. Keep your lips closed through this process. You can always shorten the amount of seconds of this process if this proves to be too difficult at first.
5. Panax ginseng
Panax ginseng is an herb generally used in Chinese medicinal practices. This herb has been stated to help with COPD by being anti-inflammatory, like thyme and turmeric were as well. Also, panax ginseng is said to provide other health benefits that not only helps with symptoms of COPD, but also in life in general. These benefits include stress-reducing qualities, a boost in energy, an immune system booster, and a promoter of relaxation.
Overall, alongside doctor’s orders and prescribed medications, there are natural treatments that may help with symptoms experienced with COPD. From taking supplements, to lightly exercising both your body and breathing techniques, these home remedies may help lessen the crippling effects of COPD. Although the damage caused by COPD cannot be reversed, finding ways to feel better both medically and naturally is very important. Always contact a medical professional with any questions about your health.
