I’m
asthmatic, and I have been for two decades. I’ve enjoyed years without an
attack and endured minutes of uncertainty over my next breath. You haven’t lived
until you’re wheezing up a storm at the expense of a looming deadline. Several
triggers rile up an attack, from stress to dust and pollen exposure, but as a
writer, I can vouch for the disease’s nuisance in my need for prolonged
concentration.
Prescribed
medication such as bronchodilators offer an immediate reprieve, but they’re ineffectual
in the long-term. I’m actually immune to most, and according to an insightful
article titled, The Depressive Spectrum, it’s time I completely weaned myself off them.
I
trod the organic route for one reason. To end the heart palpitations the steroid-based
pills I consume inspire. The blister packs aren’t exactly candid with this information,
nor do they decisively warn you about high blood pressure and the all too familiar
mood swings. It doesn’t end there, but I’m deviating.
After
a series of experiments, the following five effectively fend off the
claustrophobic sensation that characterizes my attacks.
Coffee
Some
experts urge stimulant avoidance, I say what do they know? This is MY
experience, so when an attack arises, fill your favorite mug with water and add
two heaped teaspoons of instant coffee {Kenyan seems to work better than anything
from South America, for some reason}. No cream
or sugar, please. Heat in the microwave for a minute, then drink slowly and voila!
You will be mucous and constriction free in ten minutes.
Honey & Cinnamon
I
have to admit that my love affair with cinnamon faded thanks to this concoction,
but it works. You need to, however, consume this at least twice a day, every
day, if you want to suppress your symptoms. Mix a teaspoon of each in hot water and drink.
Ginger & Garlic
Both
of these herbs are natural anti-histamines. Translation? They counteract the
body’s reaction to allergens. Crush garlic and ginger and boil in tealeaves for
fifteen minutes. Sieve and sip at least twice a day, preferably as the first
drink at dawn and the last at dusk. If the taste is too much for you, a
teaspoon of honey will soothe your gag reflex.
Ground Turmeric
The
very whiff of turmeric powder always has me hankering for Indian food, but back
to the remedy. Add a teaspoon to a glass of water and drink three times a day. Hot,
cold, it doesn’t matter. Alternate the water for milk {I don’t!}. Consume it
every day for the best results. Turmeric aids in phlegm reduction.
Yoghurt
This
viscous treat is rich in vitamin B12, which, amongst its litany of benefits, fortifies
the body’s immune system. The irony here is that asthmatics are generally
advised to avoid milk products, as they facilitate mucous production in the
body. Yet yoghurt is a tried and true remedy against asthma attacks. One cup a
day should do it, and I strongly recommend the forest fruits flavor!
I’m
useless when an asthma attack descends, especially at night, which is when I prefer
to write, but if you’re like me, or you know someone like me, do share the
above. Life is wasted in breathes, not minutes.
Great
Bite?
Yoghurt.
Naturally!
