See our top 10 unhealthy jobs list, and find out how your job ranks out.

How & why
Our jobs impact our health
The main way work impacts health is through stress.  Physical, emotional, mental and even spiritual stress takes a toll on us and leads to varying health problems.  Jobs demand a lot from us, from the overrated multitasking to sleepless nights and annoying coworkers, our bodies are constantly tasked beyond safe limits, posing serious health risks.

As if that is not enough, unhealthy habits, poor diets and lack of hydration increase the risk.  Many people are compelled by work pressures to poor diets: processed foods and snacks, and are often oblivious of the benefits of proper hydration.  Deadlines, presentations, emails, noise, EMFs (electromagnetic frequency), temperature changes, poor ventilation or lack of fresh air and difficult co-workers or bosses all affect our health.  Add a bad habit like smoking into the mix and you tip the scale to risky proportions.

Did u know?
Technological advances: emails, voicemail, text messaging, faxes, twitters have further stressed workers?  A study conducted by Pitney Bowes, the Institute for the Future, the Gallup Organization, and San Jose State University in California suggests sending and receiving messages takes up so much of the workday, forcing employees to take real work home.

The immune system protects us from invasion of bacteria, fungus, virus, and yeast and cancer cells.  Immune cells that fight off these unwanted cells are constantly been produced in the bone marrow, and carried in the blood.  They destroy toxins and microbes that enter the body.

An enormous amount of nutrients is needed by the immune system to function properly.  Processed foods with added chemicals, preservatives, and artificial colors unfortunately do not provide adequate nutrition for immune function.  Processed sugar alone is known to suppress the immune system, leaving the body prone to infections.  Symptoms such as allergies, sinus problems etc are indicative of the immune system battling invasion.

Since we spend most of our time at work, our immune system takes a beating from the unending battle with toxins to keep us healthy.  Viruses and toxins may lay dormant for years until the immune system becomes too weak to protect the body from their effects.  Then show up suddenly, causing serious health problems.  It takes time for them to infuse into healthy cells and multiply to do damage.

Also, there is the unending attack of chemicals, living and nonliving materials that attack the body from work environments.  The kind of work environment you find yourself today will ultimately determine your health in the future.  Plus, some people add to it with harmful cleaning solvents in the home.

Take for example, a painter who smokes consumes a lot of sodas and processed foods; his wife, a pest control technician cleans the home with bleach and other harmful chemicals (see the Bushman’s Spring Cleaning tips).  Add two in-house dogs and kids, and you have a high risk home for numerous health problems.

Bottom line:
Jobs mount pressure on the immune system making us vulnerable to sickness and diseases.  Bad habits and poor diets add to the problem.  Immune support is needed to fight back.

Here are some of the reasons why regular exercise could help with unhealthy job effects:

Exercise is an immune stimulant.  Exercise is known to boost the immune system up to 13% affording the body a better fighting against sickness and disease.  If you have a stressful job that does not allow for exercise, or you think your job is enough exercise, you may be missing one thing: exercise does not have to be strenuous like you are going for a new Olympic record!  A 20-30 minute walk may be all you need to activate your immune system.

A construction worker, for instance, may labor all day pounding cement block, tearing down walls, and doing a lot of heavy lifting.  Enough exercise, right?  Maybe so, but he could do with some stretching and calming exercises such as yoga and tai chi.

Exercise makes for improved digestion, raised metabolism, and therefore affords your body a better fighting chance against sickness and diseases. 
When you are well rested your body is better able to defend you against foreign invaders.  Lack of sleep is a major cause of high blood pressure.  About everyone I have met with high blood pressure have had their sleep patterns affected in one way or another.  Exercise helps correct sleep disorder by enabling the body fall asleep and stay asleep all night.

The skin is the largest organ of the body.  The skin is also a channel of elimination.  The main substance eliminated via the skin is water, in form of sweat.  The body gets rid of poisons and toxins through sweat.  Exercise ensures this process.

Did U Know?
There is more lymphatic fluid in our bodies than blood?  Lymphatic fluids…
Exercise also ensures proper bowel movement.  The bottom-line is when you exercise, things move…literally!

When you sweat and release wastes, the body needs to be re-hydrated.  Exercise improves hydration practices.  People who hardly drink water pant for it after exercise.  Proper hydration is key to the health of every organ and every metabolic process in the body.  See hydration…

The most common benefit of exercise is by far weight loss.  However, at Bushman fitness, weight loss is not an important concept as weight management.  Exercise provides a necessary means to proper weight management.  See weight management tips.

Botanical name:

Elderberry has been with man for a long time.  It has existed for centuries, and has earned quite a reputation.  From esteemed, to feared, and respected, even evil reputations, depending on the century or country in question.  It is a member of the honeysuckle family.  The word “Elder” is believed to come from the Anglo-Saxon word aeld, which means fire. 

However, some suggest its generic name sambucus come from a Greek musical instrument, sambuke, supposedly made from Elderberry wood.  As a musical instrument it was used to make music to heal the spirit, they say.  Elderberry has always had some therapeutic connotations attached to it; the cross of Christ was made from the Elderberry tree.  Thank God for Elderberry!

Ripe Elderberries

For centuries the plant has had contrasting and conflicting reputations: carpenters feared a cradle made from its wood would bring harm to babies; when gathered on the last day of April, it was believed to keep witches at bay hung on windows and doors; and at the same time it attracted witches after dark.  It was known to indicate imminent illness if seen in a dream.  Superstition or not, it has to do with sickness and health!

Elderberry has also been revered for its great therapeutic powers.  In fact, seventeenth-century herbalist, John Evelyn called it a remedy “against all infirmities whatsoever” because it was such a healthful plant.  Another physician is said to tip his hat in respect every time he passed the plant.

One amusing historical fact about Elderberry comes from the late 20th century when dishonored wine traders added Elderberry juice to cheap port to make it look and taste expensive.  They were outlawed and Elderberry was banned until a sailor’s claim gave them partial vindication.  He told his doctor a drunken binge on such “fine port” was a great remedy for rheumatism.  Doctors investigated the claim; found it to be true; and started prescribing Elderberry juice in port.

Elderberry juice is known to trigger the body’s resistance to infections and diseases as well as aiding cellular restoration.  Fresh juice of the berries is high in potassium and mildly laxative and promotes perspiration.  It helps expel bronchial mucus to relieve asthma; it relieves colds, cholera and sore throat.  In Europe, the berries have been used for all kinds of nervous complaints, including sciatica, lumbago and general inflammation.

For over two thousand years it has been used to treat coughs, colds, headache, gout, epilepsy, jaundice, palsy, scrofula, skin eruptions, and of course rheumatism.  Folk medicine practitioners valued it as some kind of wild pharmacy, using it as a diaphoretic, diuretic, hydragogue, laxative, and gargle.  It is one of a few herbs in the herb kingdom having parts with varying uses.  The flower, fruit, bark, leaves, stems and roots all possess differing medicinal properties.

In England, people often took a teaspoon of Elderberry syrup to protect them from winter illness, including sore throat, as it helped expel bronchial mucus and relieves respiratory inflammation.  It comes highly recommended by herbalist, ancient and modern, as a gentle decongestant and expectorant for colds and respiratory congestions.

Therein lay Elderberry’s claim to fame: cold medicine.  However, its flower is considered one of the greatest and most versatile herbs in the treatment of disease.  This is due to its ability to detoxify the body of toxic waste, especially at the cell level.  It increases blood circulation and promotes sweating: very useful for bringing down fevers, and in treating bronchitis.

Recent European researches demonstrated that Elderberries have antiviral activity, which helps buttress their historical use for treating colds, coughs, and flu.  The plant contains essential oils (terpenes), bioflavonoids (rutin, quercetin), mucilage and tannins, which earns it a dynamic reputation in natural healing. 

Elderberry powder

Two of its active components derived from its proteins have been demonstrated to obliterate eight strains of the influenza virus.  Several studies were performed in the 1980s to dispute this claim.  In one of such studies, 90% of the patients who received Elderberry syrup showed an increase in immune function, and were completely cured of various strains of influenza in seventy-two hours, while the placebo group only showed significant improvement after six days.

This suggests Elderberry may be a viable alternative to the influenza vaccine, which is not only effective against two or three strains, but is also known to cause side effects in a significant percentage of those who are vaccinated.

Other constituents of the herb display sedative and analgesic properties, making it useful for people of all ages.  Elderberry is also a natural diuretic that reduces swelling, especially the kind common in respiratory infections.  As it stimulates toxic elimination from various elimination channels through perspiration, expectoration, diuretic and laxative actions, the body heals rapidly.

Elderberry is high in vitamins A (beta carotene) and C, both known to strengthen immunity.  It is also high in potassium; a good source of iron (essential for the production of bacteria-destroying enzymes and oxidants), and bioflavonoids. 

Elderberry blends well with other herbs.  Its flowers make an excellent remedy for colds, flu, fever and stomachaches when extracted in water and glycerin along with fresh mint and Yarrow.  The leaves are useful topically for wounds, ulcerations, bruises, sprains and other skin afflictions.  The inner bark is a bitter herb, and therefore possesses potent laxative effects.  When dried and aged, its laxative effect is lessened, just like Cascara sagrada.

It is excellent for infections, especially when combined with Golden Seal and Yarrow; best combined with Mullein for lung congestions and asthma, and blends (flower) with Eyebright and Golden Seal to make good eyewash.

Elder flower

Other uses of the herb include to dye hair, to fade freckles, soothe sunburn, lighten blond hair (flower hair wash), insect repellant (fresh leaves and blossoms), to make wine, to make comb and mathematical instruments, and to soften skin. 

American Indians pushed out the pith from its stem and to make flutes.  They called Elderberry “the tree of music.” My personal favorite use of the herb is to make breakfast syrup.  Hmm, hmm hmm!  A pancake or waffle breakfast has never been so good!

There are no known side effects to using Elderberry; however, caution is needed when using the herb.  The bark for example, may be too strong a laxative unless dried and aged.  Generally, it is considered a very safe herb.

Any job that mounts stress on the body, cuts down on sleep, and does not allow for breaks is unhealthy.  Also, the long and short term effects of the jobs on the body are considered.  The nature of the health effect, whether chronic, terminal, or permanent damage, is also a factor in our ranking.

See if your job or former job makes the list.  I hope not!

10. Secretarial administration
Number 10 on our top 10 unhealthy jobs is secretarial/administrative jobs.  Yes, secretaries would argue, but work with me here!  This category applies to all secretarial/administrative roles.  The personal assistants, the customer service representatives, and help desk employees. 

The main adverse effect suffered by this job category is stress.  Not to say stress is a minor health risk, but they can easily combat it with adaptogenic herbs such as Ginseng, Bee Pollen, Astragalus, and Suma, or several other means (see “Stress combating tips”).   Adding to the stress is EMFs (electromagnetic frequency), poor diet, and lack of proper hydration and physical exertion.  Most of which can be dealt with by making simple adjustments. 

So secretaries…it’s not all that bad!  Keep a positive attitude, get up and stretch and/or exercise every day, drink plenty of water, hold the caffeine, sugar, and dairy, and you will be alright!

9.  Medical care providers
This category applies to doctors and nurses.  Especially pediatricians and veterinarians who deal with a lot of patients with communicable diseases.  It is popular belief that hospitals are the best places to get infected by bacteria, viruses.  Apart from the baseline stress and common unhealthy habits these medical care providers face exposed to infections from their patients.

Their solution is pretty simple: wash hands and disinfect.  Rubbing NSP’s Silver Shield gel on washed hands has the ability to protect them from catching an infection for hours.  They need to watch out for carriers of infection and drink plenty of water also.  Other support for the immune system such as antioxidants, and herbs maybe useful.  See our immune boosting tips.

8.  Zoo keeping/veterinary medicine
Next on our list are those jobs involving animal care.  The zoo keepers, poultry, and other animal control jobs.  What makes these jobs unhealthy is exposure to animal bacteria/parasites and diseases.  Animals are known to carry pathogens on them, in their feces and urine with particles tiny enough to be airborne.  Constant contact with animals may encourage transfer of parasites and other pathogens that cause chronic illnesses. 

People in this category need to support respiratory system more than anything else.  A periodic respiratory cleanse may be added to safety repertoire.

7.  EMTs
We see them every once in a while, we love to hear their sirens when they are headed to rescue us.  What you may not know is that ambulance workers work under one of the most risky conditions.  Their stress levels are off the charts as they have irregular sleep schedules, poor diet (hardly any time to eat a good meal), often suffer dehydration; and they are exposed to environmental pollution as well as communicable diseases.

These people need adaptogenic and nervine herbs to help them deal with stress.  Staying hydrated will go a long way with those in this category, also.

6.  Pest/animal control
Everyday traffic hustle, endless driving, working with chemicals, and pests’ diseases place the next category at number six.  This comprises pest control technicians, animal controllers, and Walk into a home place traps for mice, poisons for roaches and keep the ants at bay.  Seem like a pretty easy job, right?  Think again.

They have almost no time to eat a decent meal, as they are on the road all day; they are constantly being exposed to parasite-carrying pets (the fleas, and lice, etc), dangerous pesticides, and pathogens from pests such as rat urine and feces; plus they eat in their trucks.  A study found heavy pesticide concentrations on the steering wheels of 97% of the pest control technicians’ trucks studied.

Eating in these trucks is common practice among workers in this group.  What better way to get pesticides inside you?! 

Immune system boost, respiratory cleansing and support, and a high antioxidant regimen are highly recommended for members of this category.  See also “Tips”.

The culprit: exposure to airborne bronchodilator sprays.  They create asthma.  Asthma is a chronic condition, and that makes this risk serious.  Studies show respiratory therapists are five times more likely to develop asthma with exposure to bronchodilator sprays than without exposure.

4.  Cleaning/painting/lab work
This group is one of the most exposed to toxins and chemicals and other pathogens than any other group.  They are the household cleaners, maids, carpet and office cleaners, painters, and lab workers.  The constant handling of harmful chemicals on a daily basis takes this group to the number four spot.

Cleaning activities constitute serious health risks.  Vacuuming, for example, pick up big dirt pieces, but leave tiny particles floating in the air, carrying harmful substances in them.  Dust particles in the home are known to contain high concentrations of heavy metals, pesticides and pet allergens. 

As if that is not enough, there is the exposure to bacteria such as E. coli from the kitchen and toilets (see …), plus exposure to second-hand smoke, cleaning solvents, other home chemicals and toxins such as lead-based paint, radon, mold, disease-causing pests (and pets), formaldehyde, and stain resistant chemicals on carpets and upholstery, leech into air, as well as communicable diseases from their clients.

The painters and lab workers also handle heavy metals and toxic chemicals on a daily basis.  Breathing them in also. 

Going green is the best answer for this group.  Insist on safe, natural cleaning products.  The good ole baking soda, vinegar, hydrogen peroxide, lemon and other essential oils such as lavender.  See The Bushman’s Magnificent Seven and Spring Cleaning.

These people need constant cleanses and detox from these pollutants.  See “Types of cleanses” to pick a cleanse that may be right for you. 

3. Factory work
This is no doubt the most common risky job as far as health is concerned.  The long term negative effects of this category ranks it at number three.  The key to the risk in this category is the toxic substance or chemical that is involved, and its means of pollution.  For example, those working with asbestos would top the list here.  Asbestos is not only toxic and cancer-causing; it is also very easily ingested into the lungs via breathing. 

What makes it so deadly is the long term damaging effect on the lungs; and it results in terminal cancer.
 
2.  The trucker
A surprise, the truck driver ranks at number two.  The trucker is not only prone to many long and short term diseases and conditions; they are also the number in unhealthy habits and junk food.  They do too valuable and too sacrificial a job to suffer all that they do; God bless them.

On average the trucker sits all day hauling loads across country.  I have a friend who is now resigned from the job would told me he has been to every state in America except Alaska and Hawaii.  The galloping and bumping action of the eighteen wheelers alone obstructs many metabolic processes such as digestion and elimination. 

They are, therefore, at a high risk of developing hemorrhoids, prostrate problems, indigestion, asthma, GERD (gastro esophageal reflux disease); plus their poor diets and also poor absorption of nutrients take it to a higher level.  Not to mention poor sleeping habits: a precursor to high blood pressure.

Truckers need tons of supplements to get by.  A good probiotic- to maintain intestinal flora, digestive enzymes- to ensure proper digestion/absorption of nutrients, high antioxidants- to combat free radical damage, an adaptogen- to support stress mechanisms, a high fiber diet or supplement, and a good multiple mineral and vitamin supplement- to aid metabolic processes.

1.  Carpentry
All the damages to health by the jobs on our list from 10 to two do not compare to the brain damage carpenters and furniture finishers suffer.  The major culprit here is the finishing solvents.  That is some toxic chemical that causes serious brain damage.  Dr. Daniel Amen, of the Amen Clinics, a renowned brain doctor likened the damage from these solvents to that caused by hard drugs.

“They are doing hard drugs without even knowing it” Dr. Amen says.  Once you can smell the solvents it is in your brain and entire respiratory system already.  I met a lady whose dad is a very good carpenter.  Upon hearing this, a client of mine admitted her dad, a carpenter and frequent finishing solvent user, always seemed high and goofy.  The man is an ardent drug addict without even realizing it.

It is indeed a sad thing: we take jobs and careers to help us pay the cost of staying healthy, among other things, and end up incurring more health problems.  No one needs such a job; I don’t care how much your salary is. 

This is how it plays out: you are pretty much healthy, until you take a job in a factory or as a trucker.  “Just for a year or two” you tell yourself.  Eighteen months later you are so sick from all the negative effects it metes out on your body.   So you do well to quit, after 27 months, but the symptoms of high blood pressure, high cholesterol, diabetes, and even cancer do not quit your health! 

They stay with you, and what’s more?  You still have medical bills that you are unable to pay; more doctor visits to come; and your health condition prevents you from getting another job, or moving on with your career and other plans; that is if it does not kill you first.  Give me healthy and broke any day!

Let us be wise in our choices, we have only one body, one health and one chance to keep it and enjoy life.  I am not saying quit your job.  That is entirely up to you.  I am only saying be aware; and there are things you can do to protect yourself from bigger, chronic problems in the future.  Remember: it is not enough to survive…you must thrive!

Consider these simple tips to boost your immune system:

The easiest and cheapest thing you can do for your health is drink water.   It takes half an ounce of water per pound of body weight to properly hydrate the organs and tissues.  Make sure to drink purified water, the chlorine content in tap water has been indicated to contribute to heart disease and cancer.

Stress is known to suppress the immune system.  High stress jobs weigh down on the immune system, and reduce employees’ resistance to diseases and infection.  See some stress management tips here.

A lot of nutrients are needed to fuel the immune system.  Maintaining a diet rich in raw organic fruits and vegetables is essential for immune health.  These foods provide the body with enzymes and trace minerals that facilitate immune building. 

Processed and canned foods actually hurt the immune system.  Most adults are prone to high consumption of processed foods containing dyes, preservatives, taste enhancers, colors, and MSG (monosodium glutamate), especially at work.  Avoid yeast products such as breads and other moldy foods.  They contribute to yeast overgrowth.  Yeasts produce toxins that weaken the immune system.

Probiotics restore the intestinal flora of the colon and thus provides support for the immune system.  Antibiotics are a no-no, they multiply yeast and therefore compromise the immune system, leading to less and less resistance to diseases and infections.   

One quick and sure way to boost the immune system is by exercising.  Exercise has been shown to boost immunity by 13%.  See our exercise page on more ways exercise can contribute to stronger immunity.

Getting help from nature’s bounty may be necessary for some cases.  Immune stimulating herbs such as Echinacea, Astragalus, and Suma boost the body’s ability to fight infection, while antiseptic, antibiotic, and disinfecting herbs such as Golden Seal, Garlic, Lavender, and Olive leaf directly destroy pathogens that invade the body.  Or a combination of the herbs maybe necessary.

More immune herbs- Bayberry, Catnip, Chamomile, Elderberry, Eleuthero, Red Clover, and Pawpaw.

Limit exposure to toxins.  There are too many toxic substances in our environment not to make any effort to reduce exposure.  There are pesticides, herbicides, household cleaning products, and fungicides.  Live plants such as Boston fern and spider can help absorb these toxins in the air.  Prolonged exposure to high power lines, power substations, computers, TV sets, microwave ovens can be linked to cancer, fibromyalgia, etc.

How many times have you taken time out to really breathe?  How about time off to eat?!  Uhuh, you get the idea!  We need to fill up our air tanks (lungs) as often as we can, especially because air cannot be stored for use later!

How & Why
Breathing is vital to overall health
When we breathe, oxygen enters the lungs and is delivered to the bloodstream and then to every cell in the body.  It combines with nutrients (food) and is processed for energy.  Waste material produced in the form of carbon dioxide is eliminated through the same channel when we exhale. 

This, in a nutshell, is the process of respiration.  Therefore, the organs of the respiratory system such as the nose, mouth, trachea, other air passage ways, and lungs need to be clear of obstructions to deliver as much oxygen to the bloodstream as possible. 

Translation: the more oxygen delivered to cells; the more energy produced.

This is one good reason to fill up the lungs with air by deep-breathing (Here’s how).  Since we require a lot of energy to stay alive, the entire chest: from collar bone to the bottom of the rib cage is dedicated to respiration.  Therefore, surface area is important to the respiratory system and its organs, especially the loading and off-loading docks (the lungs).

Did U know?
When spread out flat, the lungs will cover one half of a tennis court?  The entire half including the doubles line (for men), or just the singles half (for women) on average.  This is indicative of how much oxygen the body needs to thrive.  Taking time to breathe deeply, filling the lungs with air is known to solve an array of health problems including indigestion, headache, gastro esophageal reflux disease (GERD), and insomnia.

Unfortunately, there are many unwanted particles in the air we breathe that the respiratory system is sometimes over tasked in its filtration job.  Equipped with mucous membranes, the walls of the air passage ways trap dust, germs, pollutants, and other tiny particles in mucus so they don’t get enter the bloodstream. 

It does not stop there; the system is equipped with tiny microscopic threadlike projections, called cilia that literally sweep mucus-trapped particles up the throat to be eliminated via the digestive tract and down the colon.  This process is repeated when unwanted or harmful particles (including some foods) are ingested into the digestive tract.  They get trapped in mucus to prevent harmful effects.  This is why in Traditional Chinese Medicine the lungs are viewed as back-up for the digestive system.

Breathe and live.

As the lungs produce mucus to trap unwanted particles from the air and push them up the digestive tract; there are also unwanted particles from the digestive tract.  This result in congestion in air passage ways, especially when other elimination channels (e.g. the colon) are sluggish or congested themselves.  Diet is often the culprit of most respiratory problems.  See more on dietary changes for respiratory health on our tips page.

While the respiratory system backs up the digestive system, the lymphatic system (an integral part of the immune system) backs up the respiratory system.  White blood cells (the body’s main defense) are carried by lymphatic fluids, and lymphatic wastes are discharged into the colon.  Again, if there is an obstruction in the colon, the wastes are flushed into the lungs (see more on “Channels Of Elimination”).

The result: congestion, and breathing problems.  Less oxygen in cells and increased microbial activity increases in the lymph nodes (lymphatic “bus stops” mainly located in the groin, armpits and neck area) stir up all sorts of problems, such as runny nose, sinusitis, earaches, coughs, bronchitis, and asthma.  See more on asthma here.

Also, poor oxygenation weakens the immune system partly because harmful microbes such as bacteria and cancer cells thrive in a poorly oxygenated environment.  This respiratory-digestive-lymphatic-immune connection holds the key to respiratory health.

Bottom line
A healthy and efficient respiratory system means well oxygenated cells, and thus an overall healthy body.

How & why
Exercise triggers asthma attacks
It is true that physical exertion can be an asthma-inducing trigger.  In fact, it is the chief trigger for about 90% of asthma sufferers.  Exercise is not the culprit here; it is the air, more particularly cold air, that triggers symptoms.

When you are at rest, or not physically exerting yourself, the air you breathe is warm, moist, and filtered by the cilia in the nose, sinuses and lungs.  The air enters the body slowly and dusts particles are more readily trapped by mucus in the airways.

During exercise, however, you breathe a lot faster usually through the mouth (no filters there, mind you!).  This brings dry, cool air to the lungs very quickly.  As a result, the harsh air causes the airways to tighten, the bronchi inflame and produces excess mucus narrowing the airways to make breathing difficult prompting a full on attack in asthma sufferers with the regular symptoms of coughing and wheezing that follow.

This process or effect is the same even for non asthma sufferers.  I suffer the same symptoms playing soccer outdoors in the cold of winter.  With proper control you can perform better and live like a non sufferer.  Jackie Joyner Kersee, Isaiah Thomas, and Dennis Rodman are perfect examples of elite athletes who got asthma under control to perform even better than us non sufferers!  See tips on controlling asthma here.

How do I exercise with asthma?
First, you want to ensure you have proper breathing techniques.  Practice deep breathing so you get accustomed to it and therefore get more air into the body.  Here’s how.

Then, before you exercise get a lung function test to measure how much air you are able to exhale, and how quickly.  Lung function tests confirm the presence of airway obstruction that improves with asthma treatment.

On the day of exercise, make sure you are feeling well, or there is no symptom, however mild, of an attack.

Measure your peak flow with a peak flow meter (peak flow meters measure lung capacity).  If your peak flow is less than 80, do not exercise.
 
Avoid exercising in bad weather.  If the weather outside is foggy, cold, or there is generally poor air quality and you set off to run a 5k, you are simply asking for it.

Warm up slowly and thoroughly before exercise.  Stretch, breathing deeply to enhance the stretch.  Follow up with a more comprehensive stretch after exercise.

Drink plenty water.  This should be a given, but most asthma sufferers “forget” to hydrate during exercise.  Hydration relieves bronchial dilation from dry air and makes for proper circulation and elimination of toxins that could constitute a risk.  See more on hydration here.

Use your inhaler before exercise, and keep it close during exercise.

If you experience an attack, stop.  Use your inhaler; sit up straight.  When the attack subsides, you may choose to continue.

Stop completely, if you have a second attack.  Your team mates will have to continue the game without you at that point!

Control asthma, don’t let it control you.  Respiratory health, and of course exercise is key to overall physical health.  Inactivity only makes the condition worse.  Of course talk to your doctor before engaging in any physical exerting regimen.  Remember, the goal is to thrive… not just survive!

Mullein is one of a few herbs with versatile applications.  As such, it is unclear where it gets its name from.  However, Mullein has been known as a medicinal plant from antiquity.  One look at Mullein will suggest therapeutic potentials.  It has been around a good while, and cuts across every race, hence its numerous aliases. 

Dioscorides trusted Mullein in the treatment of tonsillitis, coughs, eye problems, toothaches, and stings.  Early European settlers kept it handy as they sailed “The New World”.  They introduced the herb to Native Americans who smoked it to treat asthma and other lung problems.  During the American Civil War, Confederates depended on cough syrups made with Mullein to treat respiratory ailments when their medical supplies ran out.

Modern research has affirmed Mullein’s expectorant action, attributing it to the presence of triterpenoid saponins in the plant.  It has been a popular natural remedy for asthma, colds, coughs, croup, emphysema, hoarseness, laryngitis, sinus congestion, tonsillitis, whopping cough, bronchitis, tracheaitis, and other respiratory ailments.  It is highly recommended to provide soothing relief to the lungs and throat.

I know of no other herb so designed to heal in all of its qualities.  Everything about Mullein is beneficial to the respiratory system and other ailments of the body.  Mullein contains tannins which help shrink inflamed and swollen respiratory passages, thus allowing for easier breathing.  Volatile oils and flavonoids are also active constituents in Mullein.

Mullein is also rich in mucilaginous substances, called polysaccharides, which protect mucous membranes and prevent them from absorbing toxins.  This makes it very effective in providing soothing relief to the lungs and throat.  The cooling, soothing properties of the mucilage lubricate tissues, reduce inflammation, and enhance healing. 

As an antispasmodic, Mullein relaxes muscle spasms which help relieve chronic coughing and abdominal cramping.  It also provides diuretic, analgesic (pain relieving), antiseptic, and antibacterial benefits.  Such properties support Mullein’s use for treating allergies and hayfever, glandular swelling, hemorrhoids, inflammatory skin conditions, influenza, nephritis, ulcers, urinary tract infections, and even nervous tension and insomnia.

Mulleins in bloom

One popular property of Mullein is its narcotic property.  It is termed a “natural wonder herb” because of this.  What makes it wonderful as a narcotic is that it is not poisonous, habit forming and does not induce euphoria.  However, it is its affinity and benefits to the respiratory organs that earned Mullein a permanent place in Herbology.

It has a calming effect on the nerves, making it effective in treating inflammatory conditions of the nervous and respiratory systems.  That is why Mullein is so efficient in relieving coughs, cramps, spasms, and inducing sleep.  It strengthens sinuses and allows for free breathing; it enables expectoration of excess mucus, and nourishes and strengthens the lungs.

Modern research concurs ancient historical uses of the herb to treat lymphatic congestion, and inhibit Mycobacterium tuberculosis (tuberculosis-causing bacteria).  It is also indicated as a sleep aid, a laxative, and to get rid of warts. 

Mullein owes its medicinal power to the synergy of its saponins, mucilage, and tannins.  For example, in improving respiratory health, its mucilage provides mucilaginous protection to mucous surfaces, the tannins inhibit absorption of allergens through mucous membranes; and saponins are responsible for expelling excess mucus produced to free up airways and enhance breathing.

Dried Mullein leaves

Other uses of Mullein include external application to heal boils, burns, scalds, sores, wounds, itching, and rheumatic pains.  In Germany, Mullein leaves and flowers are steeped in olive oil, and used for ear infections, earaches and to soothe hemorrhoids.  Its fresh flowers are crushed and used to remove warts; tea from its leaves have been used for dropsy, sinusitis, and swollen joints.  Hot Mullein tea is also applied to mumps, tumors, sore throat, and tonsillitis.

Mullein is very rich in iron, and is a good source of Vitamins A, B-complex, C, and D, as well as the minerals calcium, magnesium, potassium, manganese, silicon, and sulphur.

There are no known side effects of Mullein, but it is highly combustible.  Native American tribes used it to make dyes and torches.  I guess they noticed its dry leaves and stems make excellent tinder from smoking it!  Or maybe it was the other way around: it ignited when exposed to the slightest spark, and so they decided it could be smoked for healing purposes!  Whatever the case, the herb with the most aliases is also called “Great”.

Adopt these tips to develop a thriving respiratory system:

The most important thing anyone can do for them self is drink water.  A properly hydrated body more readily cleanses itself.  Mucus is not as thick so as to cause congestion of airways; and lymphatic stagnation becomes rare.  In fact, dehydration is one of the root causes of adult asthma. 

Exercise is absolutely critical to lymphatic flow.  Exercise makes things move in the body. Sedentary lifestyles contribute to sluggish lymph systems and hence to respiratory congestions.  The accelerated elimination of toxins from the body via sweating, and high amounts of oxygen inhaled during exercise are enough to change things in the body. 

Deep breathing exercise sessions several times a day ensure proper respiratory function and therefore keep most health problems at bay.  Here’s how to breathe properly.  Contrary to popular belief exercise really does not cause asthma.  Physical exertion is contemporaneous with labored breathing which poses risks for an asthma attack.  It is a risk factor rather than a causative one.  See our “Asthma Scoop” for more on exercise-induced asthma.

For more information on this, refer to “Exercising with asthma” on our exercise page.

Another cool way of exercising the respiratory system is to play a wind instrument.  Wind instruments task our breathing and “teach” the body how to utilize air properly.  They often involve long breaths in and out of the lungs, strengthening the respiratory organs, with one side effect: you make music while you play them! 

Pick any one today such as a trumpet, flute, or my personal favorite, a harmonica.  Harmonicas are so cool; they are portable and easy to play.  See you at the Blues Lounge!

Get some herbal aid.  Herbs are very effective in freeing up the lungs and airways to improve respiratory health.  Our herb of the month, Mullein is king of every respiratory ailment (see more in herbs).  Some herbs such as Capsicum, Garlic and Elecampane decongest mucus from the lungs to improve breathing.  It does not matter much how they are taken; teas, soups, extracts, tinctures, capsules, and even poultices may all remedy respiratory ailments so long as they are natural. 

The herbal relaxant, Lobelia has a profound effect on the respiratory and nervous systems.  Perfect for asthma sufferers (aka “Asthma Weed”).  Lobelia extract + pineapple juice relieves asthma quicker than you can say Lobelia inflata!  It can be rubbed on the feet, especially for kids’ asthma.  Fenugreek, Thyme, Yerba Santa, Marshmallow are other powerful herbs for the respiratory system.  Combinations such as ALJ, FOUR and BREATHE EZ may also be helpful.

My favorite respiratory remedy is the Ancient Chinese secret essential oil blend called Tei Fu.  It consists of several

Zhongfu: acupuncture Lung meridian

essential oils including safflower, menthol, and wintergreen.  Tei Fu Oil  brings amazing relief to respiratory ailments when massaged on the front of the shoulder area; an acupuncture pressure point known as Zhongfu or LU1 (LU stands for lung).

Zhongfu is the first point along the lung meridian in Traditional Chinese Medicine; massaging it with Tei Fu Oil may bring relief to many respiratory ailments such as snoring, sleep apnea, and even an asthma attack.

Bee Pollen is yet another miraculous remedy.  It is considered a strong immune stimulant and generator of health.  This is because it helps restore body proteins broken down by toxins and environmental pollutants.  When body proteins break down, histamine is produced; causing several allergic reactions.  Senator Tom Harkin (D-Iowa) is convinced that Bee Pollen cured his allergic asthma.  See more on Bee Pollen here. 

Dietary changes are also a must when dealing with respiratory or lymphatic problems.  Heavy consumption of dairy products such as milk, cheese and ice cream is known to cause excess mucus production, as well as slow down lymphatic flow.  Sometimes eliminating dairy completely from diet is needed to find relief.

Allergies to foods such as wheat, peanuts, corn, and eggs are often the culprit of respiratory problems, especially asthma.  A fast maybe needed to determine if a particular food triggers allergic reactions.  A lung function test may also be required before asthma is diagnosed (see “Asthma Scoop” for more details).

While diary may cause congestion, and some other foods may trigger allergic reactions; spicy foods such as cayenne pepper, Ginger, salsa, hot mustard, Garlic and Horseradish aid lymphatic flow and relieve respiratory congestion.  They also aid digestion, and thus improve lymph drainage.  Other herbs that help in this area are Fenugreek, Thyme, Yerba Santa, Marshmallow, and our herb of the month, Mullein.

A 15-minute upper body massage once a week may help relieve breathing discomfort and wheezing by identifying stress and relieving tensed muscles.  This is especially useful for asthma symptoms.  The use of acupressure to relieve respiratory problems is common practice in the Orient.

Regular bowel movement (2-3 times per day) is important for lymphatic health.  Many people require a colon cleanse to ensure proper functioning.  A free colon means a decongested lymphatic system; which in turn frees up the respiratory system.  See “Types of Cleanses” to find out the type of cleanse the may be right for you.