Can Alternative Medicines Help COPD?

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a serious long-term condition. Though no treatment can undo the damage that COPD does to your lungs, symptoms can be managed and few alternative medications can control the discomfort, reduce the risk of complications, and improve the quality of life by taking some simple steps at home. 

Homeopathy offers good supportive role in cases of COPD. Homeopathy can control further destruction of the tissues in lungs. In addition it enhances body’s immunity. Thus symptomatic relief and prevention of complication are main achievement by homeopathy. In severe cases supplementary oxygen may be beneficial. Homeopathy can also reduce need for bronchodilators, cortisone and antibiotics (in case of infection). Consider homeopathy to help relieve your COPD symptoms.The remedy you are prescribed depends upon your individual set of symptoms.

For individualized remedy selection and treatment, You should consult a qualified homeopathic doctor in person. There are some specific homeopathic remedies which are quite helpful in the treatment of COPD symptoms: Kali Carb, Kali Iod, Anacardium, Cina, Carbo Veg, Lachesis, Ipecac, Naja, Cuprum Ars, Hepar Sulph, Lycopodium, Opium, Phosphorous, Sulphur, Spongia, Selenium, Stannum Met, Rumex, Silicea, Nux Vom, kali bi, and many other medicines.  Since COPD is chronic ailment, the dosage should be started with low potency and slowy increased to higher potency. 

Case Study: 53 year old patient suffering from 2nd stage of COPD was treated with Ipecac 30 - 4 pellets twice a day half hour before meals for 3 months at the Homoepathy clinic. There was tremedous improvement in his breathing capacity, the PEV1 results showed positive signs and patient was feeling energetic overall. 

Proper Diet: Eating healthy foods and maintaining a proper weight can significantly help with breathing. Some people with COPD have trouble maintaining a normal weight.

·         Low-fat protein foods such as lean cuts of meat, poultry, and fish—particularly oily fish like salmon, mackerel, and sardines.

·         Whole grain foods such as whole grain bread, bran, brown rice, and oats. These foods are also high in fibre, which helps improve the function of the digestive system.

·         Fresh fruits and vegetables. They contain essential vitamins, minerals, and fibre, which will help to keep your body healthy. Some fruits and vegetables are more suitable than others; refer to the foods to avoid list below to find out more.

·         Foods containing high levels of potassium, including bananas, oranges, tomatoes, asparagus, and potatoes. Potassium-rich foods can be useful if your dietician or doctor has prescribed you diuretic medication.

Control BreathingCertain breathing positions and relaxation techniques can help you breathe more efficiently throughout the day. According to the American Association for Respiratory Care (AARC), pursed-lip and diaphragmatic breathing may increase your blood oxygen levels and help reduce shortness of breath.

Supplement Medications: Bromelain is a supplement made from enzymes found in the stems and juice of pineapple. It’s thought to help COPD because it can reduce inflammation, but according to the National Institutes of Health, there’s not enough scientific evidence to support bromelain as an effective supplement for COPD relief. Vitamins A, C, and E have been touted as supplements for COPD because of their antioxidant properties.

However, alternative medicines are not been proven to be effective in scientific studies, and you should always consult your doctor before trying any of these options to avoid complications or potential drug interactions.