Pantothenic acid (vitamin B5) supports adrenal function and the nervous system. Give your child one dose of pantothenic acid, two or three times a day, for two months.
Note: When giving your child supplements of any of the B vitamins, it is best to give a daily B-vitamin complex supplement as well.
Vitamin B12 deficiency has been linked to some types of asthmatic conditions. Given in either oral or injectible form, this vitamin can help to prevent an asthma attack. Discuss this with a nutritionally oriented physician.
Herbal Treatment
Herbal treatments for asthma are directed at preventing or supporting recovery from an asthma attack, rather than treating an acute episode. In the event of an acute asthma attack, seek immediate medical care for your child. For age-appropriate dosages of herbal remedies.
Astragalus (Astragalus membranaceous) is a Chinese herb that helps to increase what the Chinese call wei chi, or a person's own protective energy. It also helps strengthen the lungs. Give your child one dose, twice a day, for two weeks out of every month, for six months following an asthma attack.
Note: This herb should not be given if a fever or any other signs of infection are present.
Licorice root soothes the lungs and helps to strengthen adrenal function. Give your child one dose, once a day, every other month, for six months after an asthma attack.
Note: This herb should not be given to a child with high blood pressure.
Minor bupleurum formula is a Chinese herbal combination that is helpful in restoring and building the immune system. Give your child one dose daily for three months following an asthma attack. Stop for three months, then repeat.
Note: Minor bupleurum should not be given to a child with a fever or any other sign of an acute infection.
Homeopathy
Homeopathic treatments for asthma are directed at preventing or supporting recovery from an asthma attack, rather than treating an acute episode. In the event of an acute asthma attack, seek immediate medical care for your child.
If your child suffers from chronic asthma, consult a homeopath to determine an appropriate constitutional remedy.
Antimonium tartaricum is a homeopathic remedy for a child who is wheezing, with a tight feeling in her chest; there may be mucus but it is difficult to cough up. If your child's symptoms match this description, give her one dose of Antimonium tartaricum 12x, 30x, 6c, or 9c every hour until symptoms lessen. Then give her one dose, three times a day, for several days or until symptoms subside.
Note: Do not use this remedy in the presence of a fever.
Arsenicum album 30x, 200x, 9c, or 30c is for the tired, anxious, and cold-sensitive child with asthma, whose symptoms are often worse in the middle of the night or when she is lying down. Give this child one dose, three times a day, for several days or until symptoms subside.