-IBIS-1.7.6-
tx
respiratory system
Emphysema
Integrative Therapies

Home Care

Emphysema is characterized by destruction of the lung tissue, leading to shortness of breath and difficulty in breathing. Most often, it is caused by cigarette smoking or inhalation of other irritants.

Although some of the lung damage is irreversible, the following approach is used to help greatly reduce the symptoms.


THE FOLLOWING SUPPLEMENTS ARE USED FOR EMPHYSEMA AND CAN BE TAKEN UNTIL SYMPTOMS IMPROVE:

1. Beta-carotene – 100,000 Units twice a day. Pregnant women (or women who may become pregnant) should not take more than 15,000 Units per day.

2. Vitamin C – 1,000 milligrams, 4 times a day.

3. Bioflavonoids – 1,000 milligrams, 2 times a day.

4. A multivitamin and mineral – taken according to the manufacturer's directions. Make sure it is free of sugar and artificial ingredients.

5. DMG – 50 milligrams, 2 times a day. DMG may help increase oxygen delivery to the tissues.

6. NAC (N-Acetyl Cystein)- 600 milligrams, three times a day.


THE PROPER DIET FOR EMPHYSZEMA WILL INCLUDE THE FOLLOWING:

• Plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables. Eat at least 1 salad and 2 pieces of fruit a day. One yellow vegetable, such as carrot, sweet potato, or squash, needs to be eaten daily for vitamin A content.

• Avoid the following foods:

1) All dairy products such as milk and cheese. Dairy products produce mucus, which makes respiration more difficult.

2) Sugar-containing foods. These slow the healing process. Replace candy and pastries with fruits and diluted fruit juices.

3) White flour products.


HERBS FOR EMPHYSEMA:

• Quebracho is specifically used for emphysema. Use the tincture, which is a liquid herbal extract – 20 drops, 3 times a day in 1/4 cup of hot water.

• Coltsfoot and Licorice can be taken as a tea. Drink 2 to 3 cups throughout the day. Use 1 tablespoon of the herbs per cup of boiling water. Simmer 5 minutes, then steep 15 minutes.

• Coriolus Avenalla - this herb has traditionally used to decrease fibrosis inthe lung tissue. As a tincture- use 40-60 drops, three times a day.


THE FOLLOWING PHYSICAL THERAPY MEASURES CAN BE USED FOR EMPHYSEMA:

• Postural drainage can be done once or twice a day to help expectorate the mucus in the lungs. Lay on a bed face down with the upper part of the body hanging off the edge of the bed. Use the forearms for sup-port. Have someone tap on the back with a flat hand. Put a basin on the floor near the head to cough into. Do this for 5 to 10 minutes. This procedure requires assistance.

• Steam inhalation helps expectorate phlegm from the lungs. Breathe over a pot of steamy hot water with a towel draped over the head and the pot to prevent steam loss. A few drops of Eucalyptus oil should be added to the water. If you are not using a commercial steam inhaler, be careful not to burn yourself.


Clinic

Footnotes

BarShalom R, Soileau J. (eds.) Natural Health Hotline. Beaverton, OR: Integrative Medical Arts, 1991-1999.