9 Natural Remedies That Will Help Combat Pleurisy

Are you struggling with chest pain that worsens when you inhale or cough? Pleurisy is a condition in which the membrane covering the lungs and lining the chest cavity becomes inflamed. In some cases, this inflammation may be accompanied by the accumulation of fluid in the space between the chest wall and the lungs, a condition known as pleural effusion.

While lung infections such as pneumonia are the most common cause of pleurisy, it can also occur due to various conditions such as pulmonary embolism, lung cancer, and connective tissue disorders. Depending on the cause, other symptoms may also be present in addition to chest pain.

The treatment for pleurisy depends on its underlying cause. Antibiotics, analgesics, and anti-inflammatory medications are commonly used to combat the infection and inflammation associated with many underlying conditions. In cases where pleural effusion is causing respiratory difficulties, your doctor may drain the fluid. Meanwhile, pulmonary embolism may be treated with medications such as anticoagulants or thrombolytics, while lung cancer may require chemotherapy, radiation, or surgery. While it’s important to thoroughly research and address the causes of pleurisy in a timely manner, there are also many home remedies that can help you deal with the condition.

In this article, we will discuss nine effective and natural remedies that can help Combat Pleurisy symptoms and promote recovery.

Natural Remedies That Will Help Combat Pleurisy

1. Lie on the affected side

If you experience chest pain, it is advisable to consult a doctor. As we have seen, some conditions that cause pleurisy require medical treatment. Your doctor can examine you and perform tests to determine the severity and cause of your condition, and then advise you if home remedies will be sufficient for treatment.

Here’s a simple tip to relieve pleurisy-induced chest pain: lying on the affected side can help alleviate the discomfort. This is because it restricts the movement of the chest wall.

2. Consume garlic

Garlic has been traditionally used to Combat Pleurisy. The organosulfur compounds present in this common condiment provide powerful anti-inflammatory properties and help strengthen the immune system. Furthermore, studies show that garlic can act against bacteria that cause lung infections.

Traditional healers recommend eating a clove of garlic on an empty stomach with a little water every day to combat pleurisy. However, consult your doctor before taking garlic to ensure it doesn’t interfere with any other medication you may be taking.

3. Try honey

Honey is an age-old treatment for pleurisy, even mentioned in the classic Hippocratic Corpus. How does it work? It has been found to reduce inflammatory mediators such as TNF-α and COX-2, exerting an anti-inflammatory effect. Research also shows that consuming honey can decrease the concentration of prostaglandin E2, a lipid mediator that plays a role in inflammatory pain. Honey also possesses potent antimicrobial properties and can combat pathogens that can cause lung infections such as pneumonia.

4. Take pleurisy root tea

Pleurisy root, or Asclepias tuberosa, as the name suggests, has been traditionally used to combat the inflammation and pain associated with pleurisy. It is also considered a natural remedy for respiratory infections such as pneumonia and bronchitis. It is generally recommended to drink pleurisy root tea or tincture 2 to 3 times a day as a remedy. However, this herbal remedy may cause heart problems in some individuals, so consult your doctor before using it.

5. Drink turmeric milk

Turmeric is a spice famous for its powerful anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties. It also acts as an analgesic and can help alleviate chest pain caused by pleurisy. In fact, like honey, it can also reduce prostaglandin E2. Research also indicates that it can act against bacteria that can cause lung infections. Boil turmeric powder in milk to prepare a healing cup of turmeric milk or let turmeric powder steep in hot water to make turmeric tea. Add a little honey to sweeten this beverage and enhance its healing power.

6. Try ginger tea

Ginger, another common spice, can help you deal with pleurisy. Studies show that ginger has strong anti-inflammatory effects that can inhibit the release of prostaglandin. Ginger, therefore, could act like non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) that relieve pain and inflammation. And as expected, studies in animals show that ginger also has an analgesic effect. Moreover, research indicates that ginger can also act against pathogens that could attack your respiratory tract and cause lung infections. Boil chopped ginger in water for about 10 minutes, strain to prepare your cup of ginger tea.

7. Consume holy basil

Considered sacred in India, holy basil or tulsi has many beneficial effects and can help if you have pleurisy. Animal studies show that this medicinal plant has significant anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects. Like some NSAIDs, it is a COX-2 inhibitor. Holy basil has also been traditionally used to combat respiratory infections, with studies demonstrating its ability to inhibit pathogens that can cause lung infections. Consume fresh holy basil leaves or steep dried leaves in hot water to prepare an invigorating cup of holy basil tea.

8. Drink caraway tea

The aromatic seeds of caraway have traditionally been considered useful in fighting pleurisy. They contain a compound known as carvone that exhibits anti-inflammatory effects and can reduce prostaglandin biosynthesis. Animal studies also show that caraway acts as a natural analgesic, which may help alleviate chest pain. Steep approximately 1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon of dried and powdered caraway seeds in hot water to prepare a comforting cup of caraway tea.

9. Try slippery elm

Herbal healers recommend slippery elm to deal with pleurisy. It is believed to have a soothing effect on chest infections in addition to pleurisy, although its effectiveness for treating pleurisy and the mechanism through which it works have not been fully established. Research does show that it can relieve sore throat. Therefore, it could be helpful at least if you have pleurisy related to a respiratory infection. An infusion of this herb can be made by steeping it in hot water.

Conclusion

Pleurisy can be a painful and debilitating condition, but along with conventional treatment, there are natural remedies that can provide relief. It is important to consult a doctor before trying any natural remedy to ensure it is safe and suitable for your situation. Integrating these natural remedies can be a complementary option for managing pleurisy.

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Frequently Asked Questions about Combat Pleurisy symptoms

1. Can I use these natural remedies as the sole treatment for pleurisy?
   • It is not recommended to use natural remedies as the sole treatment for pleurisy. It is important to consult a doctor and follow the recommended conventional treatment.
2. How long will it take to see improvements using these remedies?
   • The time required to see improvements can vary depending on the severity of the condition and individual response to treatment. It’s important to be patient and follow medical advice.
3. Are there any side effects associated with these natural remedies?
   • Some natural remedies may have side effects or interact with other medications. It is crucial to consult a doctor before trying any remedy to avoid complications.
4. Can I combine multiple of these remedies at the same time?
   • Some natural remedies can complement each other, but it is important to speak with a doctor to ensure there are no negative interactions or adverse effects.
5. What should I do if I don’t experience relief with the natural remedies?
   • If you don’t experience relief with the natural remedies, it is important to communicate it to your doctor. Adjustments to the conventional treatment or exploration of other options may be necessary.