How Inhalers Now Combine herb with Health

How Inhalers Now Combine herb with health

Inhalers have a wide range of applications in the health field, covering the treatment of respiratory diseases, management of allergies and infections, regulation of mental health, improvement of sleep quality, enhancement of athletic performance, and assistance in smoking cessation.

By delivering drugs or therapeutic substances directly to the respiratory tract, inhalers provide an efficient, safe and convenient treatment method.

The birth of the modern inhaler

In 1846, A. T. Thompson: invented the first modern inhaler, which was used to convert medicine into vapor for inhalation to treat respiratory diseases. This device produced vapor by heating the drug solution, which the patient inhaled through the mouth.

In 1860, G. M. Glover: designed a handheld inhaler that could convert drug solutions into mist and inhale through the mouth or nose.

In 1956, Riker Laboratories introduces the first metered dose inhaler (MDI), branded as “Medihaler.” This device allows patients to precisely control the dose of medication each time they inhale, significantly improving the effectiveness and convenience of treatment.

At the same time, due to the continuous development of modern medicine, more medicinal effects of herbs have been further confirmed.

Chamomile has a calming and relaxing effect. The essential oil components contained in these herbs can affect the nervous system through inhalation, help relieve stress and anxiety, and are not addictive.

Herbs such as lavender can promote sleep. The aroma of lavender can promote relaxation and improve sleep quality through inhalation.

Herbs such as astragalus and licorice also have a strong effect in enhancing immunity. These herbs contain a variety of active ingredients. Through inhalation, they can stimulate the immune system, enhance the activity and function of the immune system, and improve the body’s resistance.

Inhalers in health applications

1. Safety of herbal medicines

Allergic reactions: Before using herbal medicines, you must confirm that you are not allergic to the selected herbal medicines. Some herbs may cause allergic reactions, such as rashes, breathing difficulties, etc.

2. Applicability

People with different constitutions react differently to herbs. To choose herbs that suit your constitution, you can consult online experts on our website, Chinese medicine practitioners or herbal medicine experts to understand your constitution and the herbs that are suitable for you.

3. Drug interactions

Herbs may interact with other drugs, affecting their efficacy or causing side effects. For example, licorice may affect the metabolism of certain drugs, resulting in changes in drug efficacy. Before using herbal inhalers, especially if you are taking prescription drugs, it is recommended to consult a doctor or pharmacist.

4. Special populations

Pregnant and lactating women: The safety of many herbs during pregnancy and lactation has not been fully studied. You should be particularly cautious before using them. It is best to use them under the guidance of a doctor.

Children: Children react differently to herbs than adults. You should choose herbs suitable for children and control the dosage.

Elderly: Elderly people may be more sensitive to herbs. They should choose mild herbs and closely observe their body reactions during use.

5. Usage

Inhalation method: Different herbs are suitable for different inhalation methods. For example, peppermint essential oil is suitable for steam inhalation, while some herbal powders are suitable for dry powder inhalers.

Equipment cleaning: Clean the inhaler equipment regularly to prevent bacterial growth and herbal residue from affecting the effect of use.

For more information about the history of herbal medicine, please refer to the blog: The Innovative Path of Asian Herbal Extract

Reference: Phytochemicals of herbs and spices: Health versus toxicological effects