Bot Med Wk 9 - Asthma Flashcards
What is asthma?
A chronic inflammatory disease of the airways causing wheezing, breathlessness, and coughing
What are common asthma triggers?
cold air, humidity, pollution, allergens, and exercise
What is a common diagnostic tool for asthma?
Spirometry, which measures lung function
What are common asthma medications?
Bronchodilators (short- and long-acting), corticosteroids, and leukotriene inhibitors
What is the primary desired botanical actions for asthma?
- pulmonary tonic (Respiratory adaptogen)
- relaxing expectorant
- antispasmodic
- anti-inflammatory
Name a key respiratory adaptogen used for asthma
Ephedra - a pulmonary tonic, bronchodilator, and antispasmodic
What herb is consider a primary pulmonary tonic?
Mullein (Verbascum thapsus)
Which herb acts as a bronchodilator and is commonly used in Ayurveda?
Coleus (Coleus forskholii)
What is the primary action of Lobelia (Lobelia inflata) in asthma treatment?
it is an antispasmodic and relaxing expectorant
Which herbs have anti-inflammatory properties for asthma?
- Coltsfoot
- Coleus
- Licorice root
- Ashwagandha
What is a major caution with Ephedra
it is a stimulant and may cause hypertension, rapid heart rate, and anxiety
What is the key herbal formula for asthma?
- Coleus (25%)
- Mullein (20%)
- Coltsfoot (20%)
- North American ginseng (15%)
- Ephedra (10%)
- Lobelia (10%)
What is the recommended dosage for the asthma herbal formula?
1 tbsp (15 mL) twice daily or as needed for acute symptoms
What are the contraindications for Coltsfoot (Tussilago farfara)?
it contains pyrrolizidine alkaloids which may cause liver toxicity if taken in excess
What diet is recommended for asthma patients?
elimination diet to remove food allergens that may worsen symptoms
what TCM approach is commonly used for asthma?
Strengthening lung Qi and kidney qi to support respiration
what physical therapy is suggested for asthma relief?
contrasting hydrotherapy (alternating hot and cold water treatments)
Name an immune-modulating herb used for asthma
Reishi (Ganoderma lucidum)
What is the role of Cordyceps in asthma management?
immune modulator and adaptogen, improves respiratory function
What herb is a stimulating expectorant for asthma?
Grindelia (Grindelia camporum)
Which herb is a relaxing expectorant for asthma?
Coltsfoot (tussilago farfara)
What is the primary action of licorice root?
- adaptogen
- anti-inflammatory
- demulcent
Why should Lobelia be used with caution?
it can cause nausea and vomiting in high doses
What is a contraindication for Licorice root?
should be avoided in hypertension due to its aldosterone-like effects (can increase blood pressure)
How does green tea (Camellia sinensis) help asthma?
contains caffeine and theobromine, which are bronchodilators
What hebs pair well with Ephedra to support asthma relief?
- Coleus forskohlii
- lobelia inflata
