Asthma is a killer disease which has medicines to suppress the attacks but asthma related disorders and infections of lungs can be fatal. Though there are medicines, still taking herbs for asthma are a good way to prevent asthma is good as these remedies have no side effect but in return boost your immunity. There are many things that can trigger an asthma attack like pet dander, allergens, pollen, pollutants and exercise, smoke etc.
In case of an emergency attack black coffee has shown to be effective in reducing the intensity of asthma. Along with caffeine they contain theobromine and theophylline also known as xanthenes which are natural compounds that stop bronchial spasms and open up air passages.
Some herbs that can increase your chances of lowering asthma attacks are Ephedra or Ma Huang which has been used for centuries in folk medicine. It needs to be consumed as tea and it is strong so take an advice of alternative medicine specialist before going in for it. Stinging nettles has been a favorite in Australia as herb for treatment of asthma and antihistamine. You need to cook them for consumption. Anise and fennel have enzymes creosol and alpha - pinene that help loosen the mucus in the lungs providing relief in breathing. Others which have similar properties are cardamom, coriander, parsley, ginger that can be used or reliving the asthmatic symptoms.
Gingko has been used extensively in Chinese medicine for allergies, cough and asthma. Other citrus fruits like orange, lemon and tomato have Vitamin C and research has shown that 1000mg of Vitamin C can prevent asthmatic attacks considerably. It also controls wheezing, respiratory infections and other allergic symptoms.
Using herbs to support medication can help a lot sometimes, medication can be reduced also. All systems of medications provide relief to asthma patients and can be given a try to see what suits you best.