There are two main types of asthma: allergic and non allergic. Two thirds of asthma sufferers have the allergic type, which is often worse during spring and summer. Allergens can include dust mites, cigarette smoke, pollens, grass clippings, animal dander, mould spores and certain foods or food additives. The non allergic type is triggered by a variety of factors, including exercise, changes in weather, emotional upsets and viral or bacterial infections.
 
Asthma and diet
 
Diet is incredibly important for asthmatics, who should consume a healthy, whole-foods diet based on lean proteins, grains, fruits and vegetables. Large amounts of saturated and animal fats should be avoided, as should dairy products that tend to increase the production of mucus. Recent research suggests that Western diets may be linked to asthmatic and allergic reactions in children, and a diet high in polyunsaturated fats (such as margarine, fried foods, omega-6 fatty acids) has been shown to double the risk of asthma. Vegan and vegetarian diets have shown benefit in some asthmatics, possibly due to the elimination of allergens and/or altered fatty-acid metabolism. A clinical trial demonstrated that a vegan diet improved symptoms of asthma in 92 per cent of participants after one year.1

Many asthmatics react to additives found in processed food, so minimising the consumption of the following food additives may be helpful:

• Preservatives (31–312, 317–320) found in margarine, dairy spreads and cooking oils.
• Benzoates (210–213) found in cordials, fruit drinks, soft drinks and dessert toppings.
• Colourings (102, 123) found in lollies, cake mix, jelly and cordial.
• MSG (621) found in instant noodles, chips, rice crackers, stock and gravy.
• Sulphur dioxide and sulphites (220, 221–225, 228) found in dried fruit, fruit juices, soft drinks and jam.

Some asthma sufferers may also have an intolerance to salicylates. These are naturally occurring chemicals found in plants. Foods with the highest levels of salicylates include grapes, sultanas, berries, oranges, tomatoes and pineapples. (See our article on low additive foods on page 11 of this issue).
 
Asthma and fatty acids
 
Low intakes of omega-3 fatty acids may also contribute to the occurrence of asthma, since the ratio of omega-3 to omega-6 fatty acids has been shown to be low in asthma sufferers. Supplements of omega-3 fatty acids may be useful in relieving asthma symptoms, although not all studies have shown beneficial effects. Fish oil is rich in omega-3 fatty acids and has anti-inflammatory properties that help to reduce inflammation in the bronchial tubes. Essential fatty acids also help to maintain the integrity of the cell walls that help to fight invading viruses, bacteria and allergens.
 
Herbs for respiratory health
 
Herbal treatment of asthma involves the use of anticatarrhal herbs. These help the lungs eliminate phlegm, a process known as expectoration. Other herbs can be used to soothe and support this process. Some herbs have antispasmodic qualities which ease the spasm response in the muscles of the lungs, and antimicrobials are useful in preventing secondary infections. Herbs that calm the nervous system are also useful for alleviating the stress-related aspects of asthma. The following are herbs that may be helpful for respiratory allergies:
 
Mullein (Verbascum thapsus) is an antispasmodic herb. It tones and soothes the mucous membranes, reduces inflammation and encourages healthy fluid production in the lungs. By encouraging mucus production, Mullein protects the membranes from absorbing allergens and encourages expectoration.
 
Fenugreek (Trigonella foenum-graecum) seed powder soothes irritated airways and membranes, and is excellent for conditions involving excess mucus or phlegm. Fenugreek seeds contain saponins, which have dissolving and loosening properties. This may explain why they have been used to dissolve thick or hardened mucus and aid in its expulsion from the body.
 
Fennel (Foeniculum vulgare) is an aromatic herb, especially useful for stimulating the digestive process. It has a long history of use in helping to overcome colic, gas and other digestive disturbances. Fennel appears to stimulate the lungs to eliminate phlegm, and historically, it has been used in cases of persistent coughs.
 
Horseradish (Armoracia rusticana) is a pungent, heating aromatic along the same lines as capsicum and ginger. It also appears to have a strong stimulating effect on the respiratory membranes, encouraging them to expel mucus.
 
Bitter Orange (Citrus aurantium) contains chemicals that help inhibit the release of histamines from mast cells – the cells that respond to allergies and help defend against pathogens.
 
Nutritional support
 
Bromelain, an enzyme found in pineapple, has been shown in laboratory tests to reduce the body’s inflammatory response.
 
Quercetin, a compound found in garlic and onion, has anti-inflammatory and anti-allergic activity. It also inhibits the release of histamine (a protein released in an allergic response) and the hormone leukotriene. These compounds cause blood vessels to narrow and airways to constrict during asthma attacks.
 
Minimising exposure to allergens
 
As asthma is a potentially serious condition, never discontinue conventional asthma medications, such as Ventolin, without consulting your healthcare provider. Herbs, nutritional supplements and diet can greatly assist the management of asthma. See table for additional measures that will contribute to the success of these remedies.
 
Extra measures to manage allergens
 
Air filters help to eliminate many common airborne allergens including pollen, mites, mould, animal dander and dust. Make sure you clean or replace air-conditioning and heating-system filters regularly so you are not recycling dust through your home. Consider installing a negative-ion generator at home as this may help to reduce airborne allergens. Breastfeeding has been shown to help build up the natural immunities that prevent children from developing allergies. Breathing methods, such as Buteyko, are showing potential in asthma management. Clinical trials have shown that yoga greatly reduces the need for asthma medications (when using specific poses and practiced for at least 65 minutes twice a week for at least 1 year). Some studies are demonstrating hypnotherapy may be useful for alleviating asthma and allergy.

This oil supplies more Vitamin E than any other vegetable oil, carrying nearly 45-50% oil content. It is a combination of monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats with low saturated fat levels. Sunflower oil has been known to help arthritis, constipation, skin conditions, wound healing, and lowering low-density lipoprotein (LDL, “bad”) cholesterol. There are several types of sunflower oils produced, such as high linoleic, high oleic and mid oleic. High linoleic sunflower oil typically has at least 69% linoleic acid. High oleic sunflower oil has at least 82% oleic acid. Variation in unsaturated fatty acids profile is strongly influenced by both genetics and climate.

The highly polyunsaturated sunflower oil  is a great alternative and excellent for grills, mayonnaise and salad dressings.

The highly monounsaturated sunflower oil is a premium healthy oil which is highly versatile for use in long life frying, sauces, dressings and marinades. Mono-sunflower oil has the highest monounsaturated content of all the oils (> 80%), poly-sunflower oil has high levels of omega-6 polyunsaturated fats.

Oils are incredibly versatile, and great in many dishes:

• try margarine spreads made from nutritious oils
• use a variety of oils as an essential ingredient to cook delicious meals
• add as many different oils to apple cider vinegar for a very powerfully healthy salad dressing
• infuse oils with other ingredients, such as chilli, rosemary, truffle or vanilla, to add flavour and fun to your menu
• use convenient spray oils for greasing baking pans
• add oils in your kitchen to bring variety to your cooking, and enjoyment to every meal

Sunflower Oil Composition:

Sunflower oil contains predominantly linoleic acid in triglyceride form.

Palmitic acid : 4 – 9%,
Stearic acid : 1 – 7%,
Oleic acid : 14 – 40%,
Linoleic acid : 48 – 74%.

Sunflower oil also contains lecithin, tocopherols, carotenoids and waxes. Sunflower oil’s properties are typical of a vegetable triglyceride oil. Sunflower oil is produced from oil type sunflower seeds. Sunflower oil is light in taste and appearance and has a high Vitamin E content. It is a combination of mono-unsaturated and polyunsaturated fats with low saturated fat levels.

Sunflower oil is safe when used in appropriate amounts. A diet high in sunflower oil seems to raise blood sugar after meals in people with type 2 diabetes and might contribute to hardening of the arteries. So if you suffer from diabetes do not take sunflower oil.

Caution

Do not take sunflower oil if:

• You are pregnant or breast-feeding
• You are allergic to ragweed, marigolds, daisies, and related herbs
• You have diabetes

References:

AOF
National Sunflower Association
Wikipedia

Nutritional content of sesame oil:

• 14% saturated fats, 42% monounsaturated fats, 45% polyunsaturated fats
• 42% oleic acid (omega-9), a monounsaturated fatty acid
• 45% linoleic acid (omega-6), a polyunsaturated fatty acid
• 10% palmitic acid, 5% stearic acid
• High in Vitamin E, 1 Tbsp meets 21% of daily requirement for tocopherol
• Naturally contains sesamol and sesamolin, which are antioxidants that keep the oil fresh.

 A Few Serving Ideas:

• Add sesame seeds into the batter the next time you make homemade bread, muffins or cookies.
• Use the traditional macrobiotic seasoning, gomasio, to enliven your food. You can either purchase gomasio at a health food store or make your own by using a mortar and pestle. Simply mix together one part dry roasted sea salt with twelve parts dry roasted sesame seeds.
• Sesame seeds add a great touch to steamed broccoli that has been sprinkled with lemon juice.
• Spread tahini (sesame paste) on toasted bread and either drizzle with honey for a sweet treat or combine with miso for a savory snack.
• Combine toasted sesame seeds with rice vinegar, tamari and crushed garlic and use as a dressing for salads, vegetables and noodles.
• Healthy sauté chicken with sesame seeds, tamari, garlic, ginger and your favorite vegetables for a healthy, but quick, Asian-inspired dinner.

Some theraputic uses of sesame oil:

• As nose drops, sniffed back into the sinuses, sesame seed oil has cured chronic sinusitis. As a throat gargle, it kills strep and other common cold bacteria. It helps sufferers of psoriasis and dry skin ailments. It has been successfully used in the hair of children to kill lice infestations. It is a useful natural UV protector.
• Used after exposure to wind or sun it will calm the burns. It nourishes and feeds the scalp to control dry scalp dandruff and to kill dandruff causing bacteria. It protects the skin from the effects of chlorine in swimming pool water. Used before and after radiation treatments, sesame seed oil helps neutralize the flood of oxygen radicals which such treatment inevitably causes.
• On the skin, oil soluble toxins are attracted to sesame seed oil molecules which can then be washed away with hot water and a mild soap. Internally, the oil molecules attract oil soluble toxins and carry them into the blood stream and then out of the body as waste.
• Used as a douche mixed with warm water, the oil controls vaginal yeast infections.
• Sesame seed oil absorbs quickly and penetrates through the tissues to the very marrow of the bone. It enters into the blood stream through the capillaries and circulates. The liver does not sweep sesame seed oil molecules from the blood, accepting those molecules as friendly.
• Sesame seed oil helps joints keep their flexibility. It keeps the skin supple and soft. It heals and protects areas of mild scrapes, cuts and abrasions. It helps tighten facial skin, particularly around the nose, controlling the usual enlargement of pores as skin ages chronologically.
• Teen boys and girls have learned, wrongly, that all oil is bad for their facial skin. Heavy oils and toxic oils and creams are bad for all facial skin. But sesame seed oil is the one oil which is actually good for young skin. It helps control eruptions and neutralizes the poisons which develop both on the surface and in the pores. With sesame oil, no cosmetics are needed. The oil will cause young facial skin to have and display natural good health.
• Used on baby skin, particularly in the area covered by a diaper, sesame seed oil will protect the tender skin against rash caused by the acidity of body wastes. In the nose and ears, it will protect against common skin pathogens.
• For children going to school, who will be in the presence of other children with colds and sniffles, sesame seed oil swabbed in the nose can protect against air borne viruses and bacteria.
• When using the oil as a massage oil, stroke the long limbs up and down. Use circular motions over all joints to stimulate the natural energy of those joints.

References:

WH Foods
Youthing Strategies
Wikipedia

Avocado oil

Cold pressed from the flesh of the avocado fruit, this oil is rich in Vitamins, A, B & D and lecithin. Possessing a mild nutty flavour. Avocado oil is a tasty and healthy choice when used as a base for salad dressings and oil marinades. When cooking, avocado oil must never be heated as bitter flavours will develop. Avocado Oil readily penetrates the skin and its extremely high vitamin and mineral content nourish dry climate-abused or aging skin. To nourish the skin, massage a portion of avocado oil into the skin using a warm face cloth to remove excess oil.

Safflower oil

Low in saturated fats and has a neutral flavor that is perfect for salad dressings, dips, mayonnaise and low temperature baking. Safflower oil, with a fatty acid profile of 79 percent polyunsaturates, 13 percent monounsaturates and just 8 percent saturated fats, is the most highly polyunsaturated vegetable oil available.

Sesame oil

Suitable for salads, sautés and frying. Sesame oil can make a wonderful moisturiser for the skin. This light yellow oil is distinctively sweet and nutty in aroma. Excellent stability and resistance to oxidation due to natural sesamol content.

Sunflower oil

Sunflower oil is light in taste and appearance and supplies more Vitamin E than any other vegetable oil. It is a combination of monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats with low saturated fat levels. The versatility of this healthy oil is recognized by cooks internationally. Sunflower oil is valued for its light taste, frying performance and health benefits. Great for cooking, salads and dressings.

Soybean oil

Soybean oil is cheap, healthful and has a high smoke point. Soybean oil’s clean, natural taste and nearly imperceptible odor support and enhance the natural flavors of prepared foods. This versatile oil is great for salad dressings, sandwich spreads, margarine, bread, mayonnaise, non-dairy coffee creamers and snack foods. The high smoke point of soybean oil allows it to be used as frying oil.

Pumpkin seed oil

Pumpkin seed oil is a delicious tasting nutritional oil, that keeps better than flax seed oil and very rarely goes rancid. Pumpkin seed oil offers the good fats  for smooth skin, increased energy, maintenance and improvement of sexual health and optimum brain function. Pumpkin seed oil is known to prevent and alleviate bladder and prostate problems. Pumpkin seed oil is typically used as a salad dressing combined with apple cider vinegar and salt. Additionally, it can be used in cooking and baking as an ingredient in sauces and cakes.

Grapeseed oil

Grapeseed oil is light in color and flavor, with a hint of nuttiness. It has a very high smoking point, so many people use grapeseed oil to fry foods. Grapeseed oil can also be included in dressings and sauces. Culinary grapeseed oil can also be flavored with the addition of things like peppers, truffle shavings, and herbs. Grapeseed Oil is full of antioxidants and moisturising properties helpful in restoring damaged done by the elements. It has mild astringent qualities which may help to tighten and tone the skin. Some cosmetic grapeseed oils are stabilized with chemicals which could be harmful to consume. Like other oils, grapeseed oil should be stored in a cool dark place until it is used.

Flax Seed oil

Flaxseed oil can be used in salad dressings, over toast as a substitute for butter or even added to protein shakes. Some people enjoy its buttery, nutty taste, but others find it unpleasant. Flaxseed is used for a variety of medicinal purposed, most commonly constipation and other conditions requiring high fiber. It is also said to be good for arthritis, heart disease, cancer, depression, Crohn’s disease, and much more.

Wheatgerm oil

Wheatgerm oil is a very sensitive oil, therefore must be used cautiously. It tends to degrade in quality, when exposed to high temperatures. It is usually dark in color and also has a heavy smell. Wheatgerm oil is a good source of fatty acids that are very vital for the healthy growth of the body. Wheatgerm oil supports the skins natural process of regeneration. Good for stretch marks, scar tissue, and for dry rough skin. Wheat Germ Oil can be taken alone, drizzled on top of salads, vegetables, pasta, pesto, or other meals. Wheat Germ Oil should not be heated.