Pneumonia is an inflammation of the lung parenchyma commonly caused by microbial agents (Johnson, MS 11th Ed.). The inflammatory reactions may occur in the alveoli, giving rise to exudates that partly blocks the alveoli or bronchi. Thus, bronchospasm may occur when the patient has a reactive airway illness that may hinder the gas exchange.

Symptoms of pneumonia include sudden chills, increasing fever (38.5 to 40.5 degree Celsius) and profuse sweating. Occurrence of chest pain may be noted and is aggravated by breathing and coughing and in severe cases tachypnea (rapid breathing) is noticeable, ranging from 25 to 45 breaths per minute coupled with a difficulty of breathing. Headache, myalgia (muscle pains), and upper respiratory tract symptoms such as nasal congestion and sore throat may be initialized too.

Medical management of pneumonia extends from administration of prescribed antibiotics based on the causative agent determined through gram staining up to the assistance in hydration, antihistamines, nasal decongestant and antipyretic treatments. Another known supportive solution in this potentially serious and unfavourable disease could be found in the kitchen or in the backyard too. There are natural ways to support treatment of the said disease by the aid of Mother Nature. Listed below are among the discovered wonderful supportive therapy for pneumonia.

1. Garlic

   One of the most treasured spices of all time with ample of health benefits is Garlic. The Egyptians were thought to be the ones responsible for making ginger popular way back 3500 BC.  Since then garlic has been considered in many ancient healing formulas for the management of health problems, from inflammatory conditions to skin problems and even heart disease.  Louis Pasteur (the same man behind pasteurization), a French chemist, discovered the beneficial use of garlic as an antibiotic among his other experiments that supports the germ theory of diseases. Scientifically, an ml of raw garlic syrup is equal to the constitution of 60 mg of penicillin.

   Garlic remedies for pneumonia helps in lowering down body temperature and easing laboured breathing per application of garlic paste on the chest. Garlic capsule offers natural supports through its antibacterial purposes. However, allicin, the same ingredient that wards of inflammation and bacteria, is the same culprit in the horrible smell that it omits. But the advantages of using garlic far outweigh its not-so-pleasant smell.

2. Fenugreek Tea

   The fenugreek plant is widely used as a spice and herb in various natural remedies for various diseases. The tea made from the seeds of the fenugreek plant have the same value as that in quinine which is known to reduce fevers and is peculiarly treasured as a soothing and cleansing drink. The seeds, when dampened with water, are considered to be lightly mucilaginous and a tea made from it has the ability to lyse sticky substances such as body mucus.

   Consuming fenugreek tea can aid the body get rid of toxic substances and allows the body to sweat out in patients with pneumonia. Drinking up to 4 cups daily is advisable. To add some flavour, squeezing a bit of lemon juice may be done. However, it is very important to remember that in order to prevent food and tea interaction and promote proper pneumonia treatment, do not eat any other food while drinking the tea.

3. Vegetable juices

   Nothing compares to the nutritional and medicinal prowess behind vegetables and fruits. So, is vegetable juice beneficial to clients experiencing pneumonia? Yes, of course. Various vegetable juices were reported to aid in the treatment of pneumonia. One example of which is a juice from carrots which is rich in phytochemicals, beta-carotene and anti-oxidant. It will help the lung repair its tissues because of its potassium content plus, it can work as an antioxidant agent in the damaged lungs. Combinations of other vegetables juices such as that from spinach, beet, and cucumber prove to be beneficial also.

4. Sesame seeds

   There are three known varieties of sesame seeds: black, white and red. The black variety is best in producing high quality oil and is best fitted for medicinal purposes. The white ones are known to be rich in calcium while the red variety is particularly high in iron.

   Sesame seeds are also effective in combating respiratory disease such as acute and chronic bronchitis, pneumonia, and asthma because of its expectorant property thus removing phlegm from the bronchial tube. A mixture of sesame seeds with a tablespoonful of linseed, a pinch of salt and one spoonful of heavenly honey should be taken every night as it yields a beneficial result in treating pneumonia the natural way.

5. Herbs

   Herbs have a variety of uses that ranges from culinary to medicinal and even up to spiritual usage. Medically speaking, herbs are one of the natural ways to help treat many diseases although there are some herbs that shouldn’t be administered in large quantities because they produce a toxic effect. Take note, it is recommended that before initializing the usage of any herbal remedy one must consult his or her doctor in order to have the proper dosages.

   In pneumonia, herbs are used in strengthening the immune system and eliminating toxic impurities in body. Pleurisy root or Asclepsiastuberosa is one herb specific for pneumonia, bronchitis, influenza and pleurisy remedy. It is known to be an efficient peripheral vasodilator that enhances the volume of the lungs.  Wild cherry, also known as Prunusserotina, is reported to treat various health illnesses including that related to the lungs. Wild cherry has a stimulating astringent effect, which helps in expectoration, calms nervous irritability and it is also noted for its usefulness in aiding mucus membrane irritations.  On the other hand, bloodroot is an herb with an antispasmodic, diaphoretic, diuretic, expectorant and mucus membrane stimulation effect essential in the natural treatment plan for individuals with pneumonia.

Remember, that even though pneumonia is treatable, it is considered to be an extremely serious illness. Piece of advice: do not wait and get treatment as early as possible. And it won’t hurt that apart from the medical management your doctor has institutionalized during the treatment phase, you will also consider natural ways to supplement and alleviate the symptoms and the condition as quickly as possible.

Sources
wisebread.com
flavoursofindia.tripod.com
ehow.com
all4naturalhealth.com
best-home-remedies.com
livestrong.com