Since much of the inflammation is mediated by free radicals, anti-oxidant enzymes vitamins and minerals are useful. These would include vitamins A, C and E, the carotenoids, many bioflavonoids like quercetin, superoxide dismutase, glutathione, and N-acetyl cysteine. Again these nutrients may be given orally or by injection. Digestive enzymes may be used as natural, non-toxic anti-inflammatory supplements. Examples are pancreatic enzymes, bromelain, papain and others.

Homeopathic medications which must be prescribed on a highly individualized basis, depending upon the patient’s symptoms and characteristics can be quite effective in the hands of a well trained, experienced homeopath. Some of the most used homeopathic remedies for asthma are arsenicum album, kali carbonica, calcarea carbonica, pulsatilla and sulphur.

Other alternative therapies that may be useful in individual cases of asthma are acupuncture, chiropractic or osteopathic manipulation, massage and Rolfing.

In summary, asthma is one condition which responds well to a wide variety of alternative and complementary medicine practices. Using these methods more widely should result in an improvement of treatment results and a reduction of mortality and morbidity associated with the use of conventional medicine alone.