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Asthma is a chronic lung disease in which airways may be inflamed and airway linings become swollen. The airways produce a thick mucus and, as the airways narrow, breathing becomes more difficult. The muscles around the airways can also tighten and make the airways even narrower. These changes in the airway block the flow of air, making it hard to breathe. This narrowing sometimes gets better by itself, but often requires treatment.
Asthma causes the airways to become very sensitive and to react to contact with many airborne substances. Severe asthma can be a traumatic, even life-threatening experience.
Incidence; Causes & Development
Although asthma occurs at all ages, it is most common in children under 10. There is a 2:1 male:female ratio in children, which equalizes by the age of 30.
Mild episodic asthma is due primarily to bronchial smooth muscle contraction whereas moderate to severe sustained asthma is largely due to chronic inflammation of the bronchi with the presence of such white cells as eosinophils, neutrophils and mononuclear cells. These cells contribute products that inflame the airways.
People with asthma have airways that are super-sensitive to 'triggers' that do not bother people without asthma. When an asthmatic is near to or comes in contact with a trigger, an asthma episode may start. The airways may become swollen, produce mucus, and tighten up. Common triggers for asthma episodes include the following:- Dander (or flakes) of skin, hair, or feathers of all warm-blooded pets
- House dust mites
- Cockroaches
- Pollens from grass and trees
- Molds (indoor and outdoor)
- Cigarette smoke or wood smoke; scented products such as hair spray, cosmetics, and cleaning products; strong odors from fresh paint or cooking; automobile fumes; and air pollution
- Infections in the upper airway, such as colds (a common trigger for both children and adults)
- Exercise
- Expressing strong feelings (crying, laughing)
- Changes in weather and temperature
Treatment & Prevention
Some medicines relax the airways while others reduce or prevent the inflammation, swelling and mucus. Natural methods of asthma management should be tried prior to or along with conventional treatments.
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Signs, symptoms & indicators of Asthma:
Conditions that suggest Asthma:
Risk factors for Asthma: | | | | | Allergy |  Allergy to Cow's Milk | "Symptoms of milk-protein allergy include cough, choking, gasping, nose colds, asthma, sneezing attacks..." [Annals of Allergy, 1951; 9] |
Allergy to Foods (Hidden)| | Asthma is one of the three manifestations of a pattern of allergy that is called atopy. The associated disorders are eczema and hay fever. Asthma due to allergy can come from both airborne and food sources. Patients with delayed pattern food allergy have the most severe and persistent inflammatory form of chronic asthma.
While airborne problems are more obvious to asthmatic sufferers, food problems may be a well-hidden source of lung disease. Many studies of food allergy involve patients with food-induced asthma. Eczema and asthma are often associated in atopic patients with food allergy.
In a group of 320 children with atopic dermatitis, 55% had asthma. Food challenges triggered respiratory symptoms in 59% (rhinitis, laryngeal edema, wheezing, and dyspnea). Asthma is frequently treated only as an airborne allergy problem or as a problem unrelated to allergic processes and the possible role of food allergy is neglected. It is overlooked because the usual skin tests are often negative and the history is often not helpful as symptoms appear gradually, hours or days after ingestion of the food. Milk, wheat, egg, yeast, preservatives, colorings, coffee and cheese are the main foods implicated.
Food allergens may be found in the bloodstream within circulating immune complexes that trigger the release of immune mediators into the bloodstream. These chemicals cause a variety of symptoms, including constriction of the bronchial smooth muscle in the lungs; this is the first event during an asthmatic attack. Airflow is reduced in the narrowed tubes. Air has a harder time leaving the lungs than entering, with the result of prolonged noisy exhalation. This inflammatory, obstructive phase is the most important mechanism of chronic asthmatic bronchitis. |
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Childhood |
Past vaccinations or past and future vaccination| | Findings from animal and human studies confirm that DTP (diphtheria and tetanus toxoids and pertussis) and tetanus vaccinations can induce allergic responses [1, 2, 3, 4, 5] and can increase the risk of allergies, including allergic asthma. An analysis of data from nearly 14,000 infants and children revealed that having a history of asthma is twice as great among those who were vaccinated with DTP or tetanus vaccines than among those who were not [6].
[1] Vaccine 1995;13: pp.669-73
[2] Pediatr Allergy Immunol 1997;8: pp.83-7
[3] Pediatr Allergy Immunol 1994;5: pp.118-23
[4] Adv Immunol 1996;61: pp.341-403 [review]
[5] J Allergy Clin Immunol 1974;54: pp.25-31
[6] J Manipulative Physiol Ther 2000;23: pp.81-90 |
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Metabolic |
Problems Caused By Being Overweight| | Being overweight increases the risk of asthma. [Arch Intern Med 1999;159: pp.2582-8] Obese people with asthma may improve their lung-function symptoms and overall health status by engaging in a weight-loss program. A controlled study found that weight loss resulted in significant decreases in episodes of shortness of breath, increases in overall breathing capacity, and decreases in the need for medication to control symptoms. [BMJ 2000;320: pp.827-32] |
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Nutrients |
Selenium Requirement| | Dietary consumption of apples and selenium intake (assessed by food frequency questionnaire) were each associated with a reduced risk of asthma in an English study of adults. [Am J Respir Crit Care Med 2001;164(10): pp.1823-28] |
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Symptoms - Environment |
Air pollution exposure| | The number of people with asthma and the death rate from this condition have been increasing rapidly since the late 1980s. Environmental pollution may be one of the causes of this growing epidemic. Work exposure to flour or cotton dust, animal fur, smoke, and a wide variety of chemicals has been linked to increased risk of asthma. [Blanc PD, Eisner MD, Israel L, Yelin EH. The association between occupation and asthma in general medical practice. Chest 1999;115: pp.1259-64] |
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Asthma suggests the following may be present: | | | | | Allergy |  Allergy to Foods (Hidden)| | Asthma is one of the three manifestations of a pattern of allergy that is called atopy. The associated disorders are eczema and hay fever. Asthma due to allergy can come from both airborne and food sources. Patients with delayed pattern food allergy have the most severe and persistent inflammatory form of chronic asthma.
While airborne problems are more obvious to asthmatic sufferers, food problems may be a well-hidden source of lung disease. Many studies of food allergy involve patients with food-induced asthma. Eczema and asthma are often associated in atopic patients with food allergy.
In a group of 320 children with atopic dermatitis, 55% had asthma. Food challenges triggered respiratory symptoms in 59% (rhinitis, laryngeal edema, wheezing, and dyspnea). Asthma is frequently treated only as an airborne allergy problem or as a problem unrelated to allergic processes and the possible role of food allergy is neglected. It is overlooked because the usual skin tests are often negative and the history is often not helpful as symptoms appear gradually, hours or days after ingestion of the food. Milk, wheat, egg, yeast, preservatives, colorings, coffee and cheese are the main foods implicated.
Food allergens may be found in the bloodstream within circulating immune complexes that trigger the release of immune mediators into the bloodstream. These chemicals cause a variety of symptoms, including constriction of the bronchial smooth muscle in the lungs; this is the first event during an asthmatic attack. Airflow is reduced in the narrowed tubes. Air has a harder time leaving the lungs than entering, with the result of prolonged noisy exhalation. This inflammatory, obstructive phase is the most important mechanism of chronic asthmatic bronchitis. |
Environmental Illness / MCS| | Respiratory complaints include adult onset “asthma”, shortness of breath, and fibrotic lung disease. |
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Inflammation |
Chronic Inflammation| | Asthma is simply a chronic inflammatory condition of the airways rather than some other part of the body, such as the joints. People with asthma have inflamed, hyperreactive airways that produce excessive bronchial mucus. |
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Nutrients |
Vitamin B6 Requirement| | Children with asthma have been shown to have a metabolic defect in tryptophan metabolism. Tryptophan is converted to serotonin, a known bronchoconstricting agent in asthmatics. Studies have shown that patients benefit from either a tryptophan-restricted diet or B6 supplementation to correct the blocked tryptophan metabolism. Pyridoxine may also be of direct benefit to asthmatic patients, since it is a key cofactor in the synthesis of all the major neurotransmitters. |
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Recommendations and treatments for Asthma: | | | | | Botanical |  Ephedra (Ma Huang)| | Ephedra contains ephedrine and variable quantities of pseudoephedrine. These components are still widely prescribed and effective drugs in the treatment of asthma, particularly in chronic cases.
Ephedrine is an approved over-the-counter (OTC) treatment for bronchial tightness associated with asthma. OTC drugs containing ephedrine can be safely used by adults in the amount of 12.5 to 25mg every four hours. Adults should take a total of no more than 150mg every 24 hours and refer to labels for children’s dosages. Ephedra sinica continues to be a component of traditional herbal preparations for asthma, often in amounts of 1 to 2gm of the herb per day. |
Licorice Root| | Glycyrrhizin, found in licorice root, shows steroid-Iike activity and has a long history of use as an anti-inflammatory and anti-allergic agent, actions which have now been documented. Glycyrrhiza is an expectorant, which can be useful for relieving asthma. |
Cayenne Pepper| | Capsaicin, cayenne pepper's major active component, induces long-lasting desensitization of airway linings to various mechanical and chemical irritants. This effect is probably due to capsaicin-induced depletion of substance P in the respiratory tract nerves. The respiratory and gastrointestinal tracts contain neurons which have large numbers of substance P receptors. Depletion of substance P may be desirable in asthma. |
 Frankincense
Boswellia
Coleus| | A small double-blind trial found that inhaled forskolin could decrease lung spasms in asthmatics. [Clin Pharmacol Ther 1993;43: pp.76-83] It is unclear if oral ingestion of coleus extracts will provide similar benefits. |
Ivy Leaf| | A controlled trial in a group of children with bronchial asthma found that 25 drops of ivy leaf extract given twice per day was effective in improving airflow into the lungs after only three days of use. [Münch Med Wschr 1998;140: pp.32-6] However, the incidence of cough and shortness of breath symptoms did not change during the short trial period.
Standardized ivy leaf extract can be taken by itself or in water at 25 drops twice per day as a supportive treatment for children with asthma. [Giornale Italiano de Dermatologia Venereologia 1993;128; pp.619-24] At least double this amount may be necessary to benefit adults with asthma. |
Tylophora| | One clinical trial with asthma sufferers found that tylophora leaf (150mg of the leaf by weight) chewed and swallowed daily in the early morning for six days led to moderate to complete relief of their asthma symptoms. [J Allergy 1969;43:145–50] In a follow-up trial with asthma patients, an alcoholic extract of crude tylophora leaves in 1gm of glucose had comparable effects to that of chewing the crude leaf. [Ann Allergy 1972;30: pp.407-12]
Another trial found similar success in reducing asthma symptoms using a tylophora leaf powder at 350mg per day. [J Indian Med Assoc 1978;71: pp.172-6] However, the tylophora was not as effective as a standard asthma drug combination. One double-blind trial failed to show any effect on asthma for tylophora. [Ind J Med Res 1979;69: pp.981-9]
Tylophora leaf at 200-400mg of the dried leaf per day or 1-2ml of tincture per day can be used to treat asthma.[Clinical Applications of Ayurvedic and Chinese Herbs. Warwick, Queensland, Australia: Phytotherapy Press, 1996: pp.134–6] |
Picrorhiza| | Two open-label, non-placebo, controlled human studies have shown picrorhiza to be of benefit in asthma. [Indian J Pharmacol 1975;7: pp.95-6, J Postgrad Med 1977;23: pp.118-20] However, a follow-up double-blind study did not confirm these earlier findings. [J Postgrad Med 1983;29: pp.89-95] |
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Diet |
 Plant-Based Nutrition| | A long-term trial of a vegan diet (elimination of all animal products) provided significant improvement in 92% of the 25 patients who completed the study. Drinking water was limited to spring water (chlorinated tap water was prohibited), and coffee, tea, chocolate, sugar and salt were excluded. [Journal of Asthma 1985; 22:44, p.13] |
Food Additive Avoidance| | The elimination of food additives is important in the control of asthma. Some asthmatics react to additives such as sulfur dioxide, tartrazine (yellow dye #5), and sodium benzoate, as well as natural salicylates (aspirin-like substances found in many foods). [J Asthma 1985;76: pp.40-5, Pediatrics 1984;73: pp.631-7] Sulfites in particular have been reported to cause asthma attacks in susceptible individuals. A doctor or an allergist can help determine whether chemical sensitivities are present. |
Therapeutic Fasting| | Fasting lowers the allergic reactions causing asthma. |
Increased Fruit/Vegetable Consumption| | Vitamin C, present in fruits, is a powerful antioxidant and anti-inflammatory agent. Its anti-inflammatory activity may decrease the incidence of asthma symptoms. A large preliminary study has shown that young children with asthma experience significantly less wheezing if they eat a diet high in fruits rich in vitamin C.
Dietary consumption of apples and selenium intake (assessed by food frequency questionnaire) were each associated with a reduced risk of asthma in a case-control study (607 cases and 864 controls) of adults aged 16-50 in England. [Am J Respir Crit Care Med 2001;164(10): pp.1823-1828] |
Alcohol Consumption| | Red wine intake was associated with reduced asthma severity in a study of adults in England. [Am J Respir Crit Care Med 2001;164(10): pp.1823-1828] |
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Digestion |
Hydrochloric Acid (Trial)| | An older study showed that 80% of children with asthma had gastric acid secretions below normal levels. |
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Drug |
LDN - Low Dose Naltrexone |
Habits |
Tobacco Avoidance| | Even second-hand smoke should be avoided. In a study of passive smoke exposure, cotinine levels, when tested in asthmatic children, correlated with their bronchial sensitivity. The higher the level of cotinine in the child's urine, the worse the child's bronchial sensitivity. This held true for adults also. [Clin Chem 1999;45(4): pp.505-509] |
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Lab Tests/Rule-Outs |
Test for Food Allergies| | Many studies have indicated that food allergies play an important role in asthma. Negative reactions to food may be immediate or delayed. Immediate onset sensitivities in children are usually due to egg, fish, shellfish, nuts, or peanuts. Foods most commonly associated with delayed onset include milk, chocolate, wheat, citrus, and food colorings. Elimination diets have been successful in treating asthma, especially for infants. |
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Mineral |
Magnesium| | Magnesium levels are frequently low in asthmatics. [J Lab Clin Med 1940;26: pp.340-4] Current evidence suggests that high dietary magnesium intake may be associated with better lung function and reduced bronchial reactivity. Intravenous injection of magnesium has been reported in most, but not all, double-blind trials to rapidly halt acute asthma attacks.
Magnesium supplements may reduce the bronchoconstriction in asthma by relaxing the muscle around the bronchial tubes. Intravenous solutions containing magnesium and other nutrients have been used successfully to break acute asthma attacks. Oral use improves breathing in asthmatics and the improvement correlates with serum magnesium levels.
In a preliminary trial, 18 adults with asthma took 300mg of magnesium per day for 30 days and experienced decreased bronchial reactivity. [Magnesium-Bulletin 1997;19: pp.4-6] However, a double-blind trial investigated the effects of 400mg per day for three weeks and found a significant improvement in symptoms, but not in objective measures of airflow or airway reactivity. [Eur Respir J 1997;10: pp.2225-9] The amount of magnesium used in these trials was 300 to 400mg per day (children take proportionately less based on their body weight). |
Molybdenum
Selenium| | People with low levels of selenium have a high risk of asthma. [Clin Sci 1989;77: pp.495-500] Asthma involves free-radical damage [N Engl J Med 1991;325: pp.586-7 (letter)] that selenium might protect against. In a small double-blind trial, supplementation with 100mcg of sodium selenite (a form of selenium) per day for 14 weeks resulted in clinical improvement in six of eleven patients, compared with only one of ten in the placebo group. [Allergy 1993;48: pp.30-6] Most doctors recommend 200mcg per day for adults (and proportionately less for children) - a higher, though still safe, level. |
Salt Intake Reduction| | Studies suggest that high salt intake may have an adverse effect on asthma, particularly in men. In a small, preliminary trial, doubling salt intake for one month led to a small increase in airway reactivity (indicating a worsening of asthma) in men with asthma, as well as in non-asthmatics. [BMJ 1988;297:454] At least four double-blind trials have provided limited evidence of clinical improvement following a period of sodium restriction. It is difficult to compare the results of these studies because they used different amounts of sodium restriction. However, they consistently suggest that increased dietary sodium may aggravate asthma symptoms, especially in men. [Clin Exp Allergy 2000;30: pp.615-27] |
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Nutrient |
Lycopene| | Lycopene helps reduce the symptoms of asthma caused by exercising. In one double-blind trial [Allergy 2000;55: pp.1184-9], over half of people with exercise-induced asthma had significantly fewer asthma symptoms after taking capsules containing 30mg of lycopene per day for one week compared to when they took a placebo. |
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Oxygen / Oxidative Therapies |
Ozone / Oxidative Therapy |
Physical Medicine |
Calming / Stretching Exercises| | Studies conducted at yoga institutions in India have reported impressive success in improving asthma. For example, one study of 255 people with asthma found that yoga resulted in improvement or cure in 74% of asthma patients. Another study of 114 patients treated over one year by yoga found a 76% rate of improvement or cure and that asthma attacks could usually be prevented by yoga methods without resorting to drugs.
Another Indian study of 15 people with asthma claimed a 93% improvement rate over a 9-year period. That study found improvement was linked with improved concentration, and the addition of a meditative procedure made the treatment more effective than simple postures and breathing exercises. Yoga practice also resulted in greater reduction in anxiety scores than drug therapy. Its authors believe that yoga practice helps patients through enabling them to gain access to their own internal experience and increased self-awareness.
A study of 46 adolescents with asthma found that yoga practice resulted in a significant increase in pulmonary function and exercise capacity and led to fewer symptoms and medications. Patients were given daily training in yoga for 90 minutes in the morning and one hour in the evening for 40 days. Practice included yogic cleansing procedures (kriyas), maintenance of yogic body postures (asanas), and yogic breathing practices (pranayama). |
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Vitamins |
Bioflavonoids| | Quercetin appears to be important in the prevention of asthma attacks. It has been shown to inhibit histamine release from mast cells and basophils when stimulated by antigens (triggers). In addition, quercetin has both a vitamin C-sparing effect and a direct stabilizing effect on membranes, including mast cells. It is also an antioxidant. Other flavones also inhibit histamine release, but to a lesser degree. |
Vitamin C (Ascorbic Acid)| | Supplementation with 1gm of vitamin C per day reduces the tendency of the bronchial passages to go into spasm [Lung 1976;154: pp.17-24], an action that has been confirmed in double-blind research. [Ann Allergy 1990;65: pp.311-4] This amount of vitamin C, while providing benefit, is not curative. Beneficial effects of short-term vitamin C supplementation (i.e., less than three days) have been observed. In one double-blind trial, 500mg of vitamin C per day for two days prevented attacks of exercise-induced asthma. [Ann Allergy 1982;49: pp.146-51]
Both treated and untreated asthmatic patients have been shown to have significantly lower levels of ascorbic acid in both serum and white blood cells. Ascorbic acid has a wide variety of pharmacological effects that appear important in asthmatic treatment. |
Vitamin B12 (Cobalamine)| | In one clinical trial, weekly 1,000mcg intramuscular injections produced definite improvement in asthmatic children. Of 20 patients, 18 showed less shortness of breath on exertion, as well as improved appetite, sleep, and general condition. When given sublingually prior to a sulfite challenge, vitamin B12 appears to be especially effective in cases of asthma caused by sulfite sensitivity. |
Vitamin E| | Vitamin E has multiple actions that makes it a useful supportive agent in asthma treatment. |
Vitamin B6 (Pyridoxine)| | Vitamin B6 deficiency is common in asthmatics. [Ann Allergy 1975;35: pp.153-8] This deficiency may relate to the asthma itself or to certain asthma drugs (such as theophylline and aminophylline) that deplete vitamin B6. [Ann Allergy 1990;65: pp.59-62] In a double-blind trial, 200mg per day of vitamin B6 for two months reduced the severity of asthma in children and reduced the amount of asthma medication they needed. [Ann Allergy 1975;35: pp.93-7] In another trial, asthmatic adults experienced a dramatic decrease in the frequency and severity of asthma attacks while taking 50mg of vitamin B6 twice per day. [Am J Clin Nutr 1985;41: pp.684-8] Nonetheless, the research remains somewhat inconsistent, and one double-blind trial found that high amounts of B6 supplements did not help asthmatics who required the use of steroid drugs. [Ann Allergy 1993;70: pp.141-52] |
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KEY | | Weak or unproven link | | | Strong or generally accepted link |  | | Proven definite or direct link |  | | Strongly counter-indicative | | | May do some good | | | Likely to help | | | Highly recommended |
GLOSSARY
Acute
An illness or symptom of sudden onset, which generally has a short duration.
Allergen (Allergens)
A substance that is capable of producing an allergic response in the body.
Allergic Rhinitis (Hay Fever)
Inflammation of the nasal mucous membranes that is caused by specific allergen(s). It is an allergy characterized by sneezing, itchy and watery eyes, a runny or stuffy nose, coughing and a burning/scratchy sensation of the palate and throat.
Allergy (Allergies)
Hypersensitivity caused by exposure to a particular antigen (allergen), resulting in an increased reactivity to that antigen on subsequent exposure, sometimes with harmful immunologic consequences.
Antigen (Antigenic, Antigens)
A substance, usually protein or protein-sugar complex in nature, which, being foreign to the bloodstream or tissues of an animal, stimulates the formation of specific blood serum antibodies and white blood cell activity. Re-exposure to similar antigen will reactivate the white blood cells and antibody programmed against this specific antigen.
Anti-inflammatory (Antiinflammatory)
Reducing inflammation by acting on body mechanisms, without directly acting on the cause of inflammation, e.g., glucocorticoids, aspirin.
Antioxidant (Antioxidants)
A chemical compound that slows or prevents oxygen from reacting with other compounds. Some antioxidants have been shown to have cancer-protecting potential because they neutralize free radicals. Examples include vitamins C and E, beta carotene, the minerals selenium and germanium, superoxide dismutase (SOD), coenzyme Q10, catalase, and some amino acids.
Anxiety
Apprehension of danger, or dread, accompanied by nervous restlessness, tension, increased heart rate, and shortness of breath unrelated to a clearly identifiable stimulus.
Asthma (Asthmatic)
A lung disorder marked by attacks of breathing difficulty, wheezing, coughing, and thick mucus coming from the lungs. The episodes may be triggered by breathing foreign substances (allergens) or pollutants, infection, vigorous exercise, or emotional stress. Extrinsic Asthma is triggered by pollen, chemicals or some other external agent; Intrinsic Asthma is triggered by boggy membranes, congested tissues, or other native causes… even adrenalin stress or exertion.
Atopic (Atopic Allergy)
Genetically predisposed toward developing immediate hypersensitivity reactions to common environmental allergens.
Ayurvedic (Ayurveda)
Type of alternative medicine in which diet and therapies, such as herbal inhalation and massage, are dictated by individual's body type; 4,000 year-old traditional Indian system believed to be helpful to those suffering insomnia, hypertension and digestive problems.
Basophil (Basophils)
The basophils account for about 1% of the granulocyte count (60 to 75% of the white blood cells). They release chemicals such as histamine and play a role in the inflammatory response to infection.
Bronchitis
Inflammation of the mucous membrane of the bronchial tubes, frequently accompanied by cough, hypersecretion of mucus, and expectoration of sputum. Acute bronchitis is usually caused by an infectious agent and of short duration. Chronic bronchitis, generally the result of smoking, may also be known as Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) or Emphysema.
Bruxism
Prolonged, unintentional grinding and clenching of the teeth, usually occurring during sleep. 'Bruxers' are often unaware that they have developed this habit. Symptoms include abraded/chipped teeth (in extreme cases, waking up with tooth chips in the mouth); facial pain; oversensitive teeth; tense facial and jaw muscles; headaches; dislocation of the jaw; damage to the tooth enamel, exposing the inside of the tooth; a popping or clicking in the temporomandibular joint (TMJ); tongue indentations; damage to the inside of the cheek.
Cardiovascular
Pertaining to the heart and blood vessels.
Chronic (Chronicity)
Usually referring to chronic illness: Illness extending over a long period of time.
Cobalamin (B12, B-12, Cobalamine, Vitamin B12)
Essential for normal growth and functioning of all body cells, especially those of bone marrow (red blood cell formation), gastrointestinal tract and nervous system, it prevents pernicious anemia and plays a crucial part in the reproduction of every cell of the body i.e. synthesis of genetic material (DNA).
Cofactor (Cofactors)
A substance that acts with another substance to bring about certain effects, often a coenzyme.
Cotinine
A chemical from cigarette smoke found in the urine of those exposed to smoke. Levels reliably reflect the degree of second hand smoke exposure also.
Dermatitis
A general term used to refer to eruptions or rashes on the skin.
Dyspnea
Air hunger with pained/difficult breathing. It occurs normally from physical exertion, and abnormally either from impaired respiration, emotional distress, or a breakdown in nerve responses.
Eczema
Swelling of the outer skin of unknown cause. In the early stage it may be itchy, red, have small blisters, and be swollen, and weeping. Later it becomes crusted, scaly, and thickened.
Edema
Abnormal accumulation of fluids within tissues resulting in swelling.
Eosinophil (Eosinophilia, Eosinophils)
The eosinophils, ordinarily about 2% of the granulocyte count (60 to 75% of the white blood cells), increase in number in the presence of allergic disorders and parasitic infestations.
Epidemic
Describes a disease occurring in extensive outbreaks, or with an unusually high incidence at certain times and places.
Expectorant (Expectorants)
A substance that promotes the removal of mucous from the respiratory tract.
Gastric
Of, relating to, or associated with the stomach.
Gastrointestinal (GI, GI Tract)
Pertaining to the stomach, small and large intestines, colon, rectum, liver, pancreas, and gallbladder.
Glucose
A sugar that is the simplest form of carbohydrate. It is commonly referred to as blood sugar. The body breaks down carbohydrates in foods into glucose, which serves as the primary fuel for the muscles and the brain.
Gram (gm, gms, Gramme, Grammes, Grams)
A metric unit of weight, there being approximately 28 grams in one ounce.
Herbs (Herb, Herbal)
Herbs may be used as dried extracts (capsules, powders, teas), glycerites (glycerine extracts), or tinctures (alcohol extracts). Unless otherwise indicated, teas should be made with one teaspoon herb per cup of hot water. Steep covered 5 to 10 minutes for leaf or flowers, and 10 to 20 minutes for roots. Tinctures may be used singly or in combination as noted. The high doses of single herbs suggested may be best taken as dried extracts (in capsules), although tinctures (60 drops four times per day) and teas (4 to 6 cups per day) may also be used.
Histamine
A chemical in the body tissues, produced by the breakdown of histidine. It is released in allergic reactions and causes widening of capillaries, decreased blood pressure, increased release of gastric juice, fluid leakage forming itchy skin and hives, and tightening of smooth muscles of the bronchial tube and uterus. Histamine is the chemical that drives the initial acute allergic reaction, causing itching, swelling and congestion.
Larynx (Laryngeal, Voice Box)
The short passageway shaped like a triangle that is just below the pharyx in the neck.
Lung (Lungs, Pulmonary)
Organ of the body, located in the chest cavity which is designed to bring oxygen from the air into the blood stream, while also expelling carbon dioxide and other waste gases out of the body. Pulmonary: Related to the lungs.
Magnesium
An essential mineral. The chief function of magnesium is to activate certain enzymes, especially those related to carbohydrate metabolism. Another role is to maintain the electrical potential across nerve and muscle membranes. It is essential for proper heartbeat and nerve transmission. Magnesium controls many cellular functions. It is involved in protein formation, DNA production and function and in the storage and release of energy in ATP. Magnesium is closely related to calcium and phosphorus in body function. The average adult body contains approximately one ounce of magnesium. It is the fifth mineral in abundance within the body--behind calcium, phosphorus, potassium and sodium. Although about 70 percent of the body's magnesium is contained in the teeth and bones, its most important functions are carried out by the remainder which is present in the cells of the soft tissues and in the fluid surrounding those cells.
Mast Cells
These are a group of cells that line the capillaries of tissues that come in contact with the outside, for example skin, sinuses, and lung mucosa. They, like their first cousin basophils, are produced in the red bone marrow and migrate to the appropriate tissues, where they stay. They bind IgE, supply the histamine and heparin response that gives you a healing inflammation, and cause allergies.
Mediator (Mediate, Mediates, Mediators)
A substance or structure that helps bring about a specific response in a bodily tissue.
Metabolism (Metabolic, Metabolize, Metabolizes, Metabolizing)
The chemical processes of living cells in which energy is produced in order to replace and repair tissues and maintain a healthy body. Responsible for the production of energy, biosynthesis of important substances, and degradation of various compounds. Also defined as the sum total of changes in an organism in order to achieve a balance (homeostasis): Catabolic burns up, anabolic stores and builds up; the sum of their work is metabolism.
Microgram (mcg, Micrograms, ug)
0.000001 or a millionth of a gram.
Milligram (mg, Milligrams)
0.001 or a thousandth of a gram.
Milliliter (mL)
0.001 or one thousandth of a liter.
Molybdenum
An essential trace element. It helps regulate iron stores in the body and is a key component of at least three enzymes: xanthine oxidase, aldehyde oxidase and sulfite oxidase. These enzymes are involved with carbohydrate metabolism, fat oxidation and urine metabolism. The average adult has about 9mg of molybdenum concentrated mostly in the liver, kidney, adrenal glands, bones and skin. Molybdenum deficiencies are associated with esophageal cancer, sexual impotency and tooth decay.
Mucus (Mucous)
The viscous, slippery substance that consists chiefly of mucin, water, cells, and inorganic salts and is secreted as a protective lubricant coating by cells and glands of the mucous membranes.
Neurotransmitters (Neurotransmitter)
Chemicals in the brain that aid in the transmission of nerve impulses. Various Neurotransmitters are responsible for different functions including controlling mood and muscle movement and inhibiting or causing the sensation of pain.
Neutrophils (Neutrophil)
Another name for polymorphonuclear leukocytes, the most common type of blood-carried white blood cell, and the first mobile resistance cell to come to the rescue in injury.
Over-The-Counter (OTC, Over The Counter)
A drug or medication that can legally be bought without a doctor's prescription being required.
Pharmacological
Involving the use of drugs.
Placebo (Placebos)
A pharmacologically inactive substance. Often used to compare clinical responses against the effects of pharmacologically active substances in experiments.
Pyridoxine
A B-complex vitamin that plays a role as a coenzyme in the breakdown and utilization of carbohydrates, fats and proteins. It facilitates the release of glycogen for energy from the liver and muscles. It also participates in the utilization of energy in the brain and nervous tissue and is essential for the regulation of the central nervous system.
Quercetin
A highly active bioflavonoid which is absorbed most effectively in combination with bromelain.
Rhinitis
Inflammation of the sinus membranes and nasal mucous membrane, sometimes extending to the eyes and ears. It may be caused by a head cold, hay fever, or a chemical irritant.
Selenium
An essential element involved primarily in enzymes that are antioxidants. Three selenium- containing enzymes are antioxidant peroxidases and a fourth selenium-containing enzyme is involved in thyroid hormone production. The prostate contains a selenium-containing protein and semen contains relatively large amounts of selenium. Clinical studies show that selenium is important in lowering the risk of several types of cancers. In combination with Vitamin E, selenium aids the production of antibodies and helps maintain a healthy heart. It also aids in the function of the pancreas, provides elasticity to tissues and helps cells defend themselves against damage from oxidation.
Serotonin
A phenolic amine neurotransmitter (C10H12N2O) that is a powerful vasoconstrictor and is found especially in the brain, blood serum and gastric membranes of mammals. Considered essential for relaxation, sleep, and concentration.
Serum
The cell-free fluid of the bloodstream. It appears in a test tube after the blood clots and is often used in expressions relating to the levels of certain compounds in the blood stream.
Smooth Muscle (Involuntary Muscle)
The human body contains 2 types of muscle - smooth muscle and striated (skeletal) muscle. Smooth muscle is found in our internal organs such as stomach, intestines, blood vessels, or uterus (womb) and causes them to contract. These muscles are involuntary - that is, we don't control their movement.
Sodium
An essential mineral that our bodies regulate and conserve. Excess sodium retention increases the fluid volume (edema) and low sodium leads to less fluid and relative dehydration. The adult body averages a total content of over 100 grams of sodium, of which a surprising one-third is in bone. A small amount of sodium does get into cell interiors, but this represents only about ten percent of the body content. The remaining 57 percent or so of the body sodium content is in the fluid immediately surrounding the cells, where it is the major cation (positive ion). The role of sodium in the extracellular fluid is maintaining osmotic equilibrium (the proper difference in ions dissolved in the fluids inside and outside the cell) and extracellular fluid volume. Sodium is also involved in nerve impulse transmission, muscle tone and nutrient transport. All of these functions are interrelated with potassium.
Spasm
Involuntary contraction of one or more muscle groups.
Steroid (Steroids)
Any of a large number of hormonal substances with a similar basic chemical structure containing a 17-carbon 14-ring system and including the sterols and various hormones and glycosides.
Sublingual (Sublingually)
Situated or administered under the tongue, for example sublingual glands or sublingual tablets.
Sulfite Sensitivity
A person can develop sulfite sensitivity (allergy) at any point in their life but the cause is often unknown. Sulfites are sulfur-based compounds that are added by food manufacturers and restaurants for many purposes such as reducing discoloration of light-colored fruits and vegetables; preventing black spots on seafood; inhibiting the growth of microorganisms in fermented foods such as wine; conditioning dough; maintaining the stability and potency of certain medications. The most common symptom is difficulty in breathing. Sulfites give off the gas sulfur dioxide, which can cause irritation in the lungs and cause a severe asthma attack for those who suffer from asthma. Responses vary; sulfites can also cause chest tightness, nausea, hives, or even anaphalactic shock.
Tincture
An alcohol or water-alcohol solution, usually referring to a preparation from herbal materials.
Tryptophan
Essential amino acid. Natural relaxant and sleep aid due to its precursor role in serotonin (a neurotransmitter) synthesis. Along with tyrosine, it is used in the treatment of addictions.
Vegan (Veganism, Vegans)
A person who consumes no animal products of any kind. In other words, vegans do not consume meat, fish, fowl, dairy products, eggs, honey, or products containing gelatin or any other animal-derived ingredients such as whey powder or food colorings.
Vitamin B6 (B6, B-6)
Influences many body functions including regulating blood glucose levels, manufacturing hemoglobin and aiding the utilization of protein, carbohydrates and fats. It also aids in the function of the nervous system.
Vitamin C (Ascorbic Acid)
A water-soluble antioxidant vitamin essential to the body's health. When bound to other nutrients, for example calcium, it would be referred to as "calcium ascorbate". As an antioxidant, it inhibits the formation of nitrosamines (a suspected carcinogen). Vitamin C is important for maintenance of bones, teeth, collagen and blood vessels (capillaries), enhances iron absorption and red blood cell formation, helps in the utilization of carbohydrates and synthesis of fats and proteins, aids in fighting bacterial infections, and interacts with other nutrients. It is present in citrus fruits, tomatoes, berries, potatoes and fresh, green leafy vegetables.
Vitamin E
An essential fat-soluble vitamin. As an antioxidant, helps protect cell membranes, lipoproteins, fats and vitamin A from destructive oxidation. It helps protect red blood cells and is important for the proper function of nerves and muscles. For Vitamin E only, 1mg translates to 1 IU.
White Blood Cell (WBC, White Blood Cells)
A blood cell that does not contain hemoglobin: a blood corpuscle responsible for maintaining the body's immune surveillance system against invasion by foreign substances such as viruses or bacteria. White cells become specifically programmed against foreign invaders and work to inactivate and rid the body of a foreign substance. White blood cells are composed primarily of neutrophils, monocytes and lymphocytes. Lymphocytes are either T-cells or B-cells. T-cells (CD3 cells) are divided into T-helper (CD4 cells) and T-suppressor/cytotoxic (CD8 cells) cells.
Yeast
A single-cell organism that may cause infection in the mouth, vagina, gastrointestinal tract, and any or all bodily parts. Common yeast infections include candidiasis and thrush.
Last updated: Apr 13, 2008
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