July 2011
Welcome to the monthly Ask Dr. Marty Newsletter. In response to several requests, I have decided to share some information based on questions that I frequently receive regarding natural health topics. I promise to keep the newsletter short. But if at any time you get overwhelmed with emails, please let me know and I’ll be glad to take you off of the mailing list. In the meantime, I hope you enjoy the newsletter and hope that you will forward any questions you may have as well. All questions will be anonymous. Even if they don’t make it into the newsletter, I promise to answer all questions.
QUESTION: At the age of 60, I have developed asthma. I have had sinus problems for years, but they have gotten worse, and I have even had pneumonia several times. Help!
ANSWER: Asthma can be a frightening, life-threatening problem. Always consult your healthcare professional before changing your approach to addressing the source of the problem, as well as the relief of symptoms.
There are many different approaches that could make a big difference for you:
– Asthma can be triggered by a nervous system response that constricts bronchial tube muscles. Nervine supplements, like Nutri-Calm or magnesium, or anti-spasmodics, like lobelia or black cohosh can help the muscles to relax.
– Asthma can also be triggered by allergies to food or airborne pollutants, like pollen, dander, or household cleaning products. Minimize exposure to the offenders whenever possible.
– Drinking sufficient amounts of water can thin mucus so that your body can get rid of it through normal processes, like coughing and sneezing.
– Essential oils, like peppermint or TeiFu can be applied directly to the skin over the bronchial/lung area. You can also place a drop of these oils just inside each nostril and breathe in deeply to open up the entire respiratory system.
– Experiment by eliminating all dairy products from your diet. Many people eliminate joint and muscle aches, digestive problems, as well as respiratory problems when they ditch the dairy. Good substitutes, like almond milk and almond cheese, are available in most large groceries and are delicious. Be alert to any other food triggers by keeping a food log. Chemicals in food, like artificial colors, dyes, and preservatives can often trigger allergies.
– ALJ and Histablock are herbal combinations designed to combat the allergic response that results in respiratory congestion.
– Breathe Free, fenugreek, and thyme are especially helpful in thinning mucus so that it can be expelled.
– Expectorants like mullein, Bronchial Formula, Lung Support, red clover, and Sinus Support can work with the body to help expel the mucus from the entire respiratory system for long-term relief.
– Maintaining a healthy weight and Body Mass Index (BMI) can also make a big difference. According to Harvard Medical School and the American Lung Association, women with a BMI of 30 or more are three times more likely to develop asthma than women with a BMI less than 20. For a great website for determining your BMI and ideal weight, check out http://www.halls.md/body-mass-index/bmi.htm.
Most people think of alcohol or drug detox when the word detox is used. Some even think of an intestinal cleanse. But any part of the body can actually be cleansed or detoxified. Detoxifying your respiratory system will be very different from “suppressing” a cough or other symptoms with pharmaceuticals or over-the-counter meds. Only your healthcare professional can help you decide what is right for you, but working WITH the body’s normal processes can really pay off in the long haul.
Hot Tip: Indoor air quality can often be far more polluted than outdoor air. A quality air purifier can efficiently remove many allergens from your indoor air.
Next month…The truth about sunscreens
*******
Maureen (Marty) Kernion is not a physician and does not diagnose nor prescribe. She received a bachelor’s degree in secondary education from Louisiana State University, and a Master of Science degree and Doctorate of Natural Health degree from Clayton College of Natural Health. She is the author of Going Natural with Herbs. Marty lectures on natural health topics across the country and has been featured at 78 Barnes and Noble book stores since her book was published. She is also a retired professor, specializing in courses in nutrition and herbal remedies.
It is always wise to advise your pharmacist or health care practitioner about any change in diet or supplements you plan to take, especially if you take any prescription medication.
“Their fruit will serve for food and their leaves for healing.” Ezekiel 47:12
Ask Doctor Marty 