Certain combinations of herbs have similar properties as conventional medicines and can also help build up immunity against allergies

but is poorly and variably absorbed, and has cardiac and CNS side effects. Lastly, the glucocorticoids hydrocortisone and prednisone inhibit histamine and other proallergy metabolites, but have many side effects associated with long-term use, including susceptibility to infection, obesity, acne, ulcers, convulsions and osteoporosis.”

Complementary cures Which is why many people

are turning to herbal medicines as a complementary treatment to their traditional medicines. Certain combinations of herbs have similar properties as the conventional medicines used to ease breathing. They can also help build up a strong immunity against allergies, which conventional medicines cannot do.

Dr Louise suggests several herbs to help to ease the symptoms of asthma and allergies.

“Lobelia ( Lobelia inflata) has a long history for relaxing respiratory muscles and reducing spasmodic coughing,” she says. “Herbs such as mullein ( Verbascum thapsus), liquorice root ( Glycyrrhiza glabra), marshmallow root ( Althea officinalis) or slippery elm ( Ulmus fulva) can be taken to soothe irritated tissues. Fenugreek ( Trigonella foenum-graecum) and thyme can help to open the chest as it loosens and stimulates the gentle removal of mucus and phlegm. To help reduce asthma symptoms, include Ginkgo biloba in your health care programme.”

Of ginkgo, Brinker says that the Chinese have long used the seeds and leaves to treat asthma. “The terpene lactone ginkgolide B may be involved in blocking platelet activating factor leading to bronchospasm,” he says.

He also suggests other herbs for relief of respiratory ailments, including eyebright ( Euphrasia officinalis) – “This plant contains a mild astringent that can be used to bathe the nasal passages for hay