Use These Natural Remedies to Treat COPD at Home
Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a lung disease where a patient experiences difficulty breathing. There are two types of COPD; chronic bronchitis, which is a long-term cough with mucus, and emphysema, which is damage to the lungs over a long period of time. There are some natural remedies for COPD that can help relieve some of the pain. A few of these natural remedies include the following:
1. Vitamins
If you are suffering from COPD, it is essential to have a sufficient intake of vitamins. Try to eat the following foods that are rich in vitamins:
- Vitamin D
This vitamin is fat-soluble and is stored in the liver and fatty tissues. It can be found naturally in beef liver, egg yolks, milk, yogurt, cheese, salmon, and mackerel. People with COPD will have a deficiency of Vitamin D, so the consumption of these foods is essential.
- Vitamin C
This water-soluble vitamin is found in oranges and other citrus fruits. You can also get large amounts of it in green leafy vegetables, berries, tomatoes, and broccoli. It is one of the most essential natural remedies for COPD.
- Vitamin A
This fat-soluble vitamin is found in salmon and other fatty fish, dairy products, and fruits such as mangoes. You can get a good dose of it from carrots, broccoli, and green leafy vegetables.
- Vitamin E
It is a fat-soluble vitamin and is found in cereals, meat, eggs, fruit, and vegetables. It helps boost immunity, protects against cell damage, and is good for blood vessels.
2. Antioxidants
They are naturally occurring or synthetic substances that protect cells from free radicals (highly reactive compounds that can damage cells). Some foods rich in antioxidants are- kidney beans, olive oil, carrots, prunes, plums, pecans, fish, ginger, and green tea. They constitute some of the best natural remedies for COPD.
3. Eucalyptus oil
This herb has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. It opens up the airways, relieves congestion, and eliminates phlegm. It also prevents flare-ups in moderate to severe COPD conditions.
4. Ginger
It is a great root that cures cough, cold, and breaks down mucus, improves circulation in the lungs, and also reduces inflammation. Boil ginger in water, strain it, and add some honey and drink it as a tea.
5. Oregano
It has carvacrol and rosmarinic acid, which are natural antihistamines and decongestants. Fresh oregano can be added to any meal for flavor and also to improve your health.
6. Ginseng
This popular herb has beneficial properties that can heal the body in many ways and is one of the most effective natural remedies for COPD. Studies have also proved that it is effective for treating COPD. It helps in improving breathing and increasing the tolerance of the lungs. Studies have indicated that people who have been consuming it regularly find it easier to breathe, and their lungs function better.
7. Amino acids
They are the building blocks of protein and are essential to enhance lung function, muscle strength, and cognitive functions. They can be found in eggs, nuts, seeds, meat, fish, and poultry.
These natural remedies for COPD will surely help overcome the problems in breathing and obstruction in the airways.