An asthma attack can be a serious medical emergency. Some homeopathic remedies are said to help treat symptoms, but very little evidence suggests it is an effective treatment option.

Asthma is best treated through medication and avoiding allergens that can trigger an attack. Home remedies for asthma are not advised.

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) warns consumers against relying on over-the-counter asthma products labeled as homeopathic, as they have not been evaluated for safety and effectiveness.

In homeopathic medicine, the goal is to treat asthma with a minimal dose that can result in symptoms similar to asthma. This is said to trigger the body’s natural defenses.

Research suggests that homeopathic remedies may have potential therapeutic uses. A small 2018 study indicated that usual medical care combined with homeopathic treatment could be more effective than typical asthma treatment with a placebo. The study authors noted that further research is still needed to confirm its safety and effectiveness.

However, a 2023 review of controlled trials the Australian National Health and Medical Research Council conducted on homeopathy as an asthma treatment found inconclusive results and possible bias in the studies.

The FDA notes that homeopathic products can be highly diluted and contain several substances from plants, minerals, and chemicals. They may also include toxins, such as:

  • nux vomica (the source of strychnine)
  • belladonna (deadly nightshade)
  • mercurius solubilis (mercury)
  • plumbum aceticum (lead)

Homeopathic doctors and homeopaths — those who practice homeopathic medicine — may suggest highly diluted natural medications.

However, there are currently no studies that prove that homeopathic remedies can treat asthma. If you want to try a homeopathic treatment option for asthma, it’s important to speak with a healthcare professional first.

Homeopathic remedies should never be used to treat asthma attacks. If you are having an asthma attack and your asthma medication is not relieving your symptoms or if you are finding it difficult to breathe, you should call 911 or a local emergency number immediately.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), more than 26 million children and adults in the United States have asthma.

For asthma symptoms, healthcare professionals usually prescribe medications such as:

  • bronchodilator inhalers that relax the muscles of the airways to increase airflow, such as Proventil, Ventolin (albuterol), and Xopenex (levalbuterol)
  • steroid inhalers that reduce inflammation, such as Pulmicort (budesonide) and Flovent (fluticasone)

Whether you’re using homeopathic or conventional treatment, you should go to the nearest emergency medical facility if you experience symptoms including:

  • challenges effectively managing asthma attacks, especially if you have a rescue inhaler
  • extreme breathlessness, especially early in the morning or late at night
  • tightness in your chest
  • blue or gray fingernails and lips
  • confusion
  • exhaustion

Asthma is a serious medical condition. There’s little, if any, scientific evidence that homeopathy offers an effective treatment for it.

A severe asthma attack that does not improve with home treatment can become a life threatening emergency. Keep an eye on your symptoms and get emergency help if needed.

If you’re considering a homeopathic treatment, discuss your thoughts with a doctor first to review all treatment options and risks before reaching a decision.