Asthma

A disease in which the airways of the lungs becoming more tight and swelling up, asthma may restrict airflow and make it harder to breathe. Huge asthma attacks have been reported to cause sufferers to suffocate. Asthma attacks are believed to be caused by both external and internal factors. The external factors are believed to feature food, pollen, smoke and dust. The internal factors may include stress, exercise and bronchitis. For preventing asthma it has been recommended to manage stress levels, consume high amounts of water to keep mucus loose, and keep one’s home clear of both pollen and dust.

The reported symptoms of Asthma
- A tight feeling inside the chest.
- Wheezing while breathing.
- Difficulty in breathing or short breath.
- Coughing over a lengthy periods of time.
- Suffering from sleeping problems.

Supplements that are viewed as beneficial for combating asthma
- Vitamin C supplements are believed to be useful as it is high in antioxidants. It is said to be good for treating allergic reactions, and consuming Vitamin C before sporting activity may thwart an asthma attack.
- Quercetin is a flavonoid that is strong antioxidant and may help in neutralising free radicals that may result in bronchial inflammation.
- The herbs Plantain, Hyssop and Liquorice have been reported to be good for people suffering from asthma.

Bronchitis

The inflammation of the bronchial tubes, bronchitis is reported to occur as the airways of the lung swell and thicken, paralysing the cilia. There are two separate forms of bronchitis, acute and chronic. Acute is where a person suffers from fever and a cough. Chronic bronchitis is reported to last longer than acute, it is a cough which is believed to last for several months.
It is said that acute bronchitis originates from a cold or flu, whereas chronic bronchitis happens when the lungs have been irritated over a lengthy period of time. The people who are more likely to suffer from chronic bronchitis are believed to be smokers and workers that are frequently exposed to chemical fumes. The signs of chronic bronchitis are thought to include coughs that create yellow or green phlegm for around ten weeks of the year.
In order to prevent bronchitis it has been recommended to consume plenty of water in order to stay hydrated. This is because dehydration can result in mucus tothicken and make it hard to cough up. It has been advised to avoid smoking and not to be subjected to passive smoking.

Supplements that are believed to help in treating Bronchitis
- Flavonoid supplements have been recommended to be taken because of their anti- viral and anti- inflammatory features.
- The herb Echinacea is seen as beneficial due to its anti bacterial and anti viral features. They are also thought to help strengthen the immune system.
- The herb Astragalus also hosts antibacterial and antiviral properties that are seen as essential for preventing acute bronchitis.
- The herb thyme may be consumed as a tea, as it is believed to thin mucus secretions.