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Asthma in young children
My two-year-old grandson has just spent his second three-night stay in hospital suffering from a severe asthma attack. He now has an inhaler but we are still interested in any alternative treatments you could recommend.
In Australia, where asthma rates are even higher than here, a natural remedy called Oralmat, which contains rye grass, has been shown to help asthma sufferers, young and old, reduce the number and severity of attacks.
Rye grass contains calming tryptophan, one of the chemicals the brain needs to make the feel-good mood-booster serotonin, plus zinc, which strengthens the immune system. It also contains magnesium, which also keep muscles and the immune system healthy.
In trials at the John Hunter Hospital in Newcastle, Australia, 40 adult patients were given an extract of rye grass or a placebo for four weeks. Researchers found those taking the rye grass not only felt better, but could exercise for longer and had better lung function after just one week.
Oralmat, which is also reported to be effective against other allergies, colds, flu, respiratory problems, viral, fungal and bacterial infections, is now on sale in UK health stores. It costs £28 for 10ml. To take it, your grandson needs to hold just two drops under the tongue for 15 seconds before swallowing. His parents should try and repeat this dosage twice a day to help prevent a further attack.
The homeopathic remedy for asthma in children is Poumon histamine. To find out how to get homeopathy on the NHS, contact the British Homeopathic Association on 020-7566 7800 and ask for the new patient guide booklet. This organisation also keeps a list of doctors who are homeopaths too. To find other qualified homeopaths in your area, contact The Society of Homeopaths on 01604-621400.
*Mail order Oralmat from the The Nutricentre (0800-587 2290) if you cannot find it on the high street.