Herbal Treatment And Remedies For Pleurisy

A membrane that encloses the lungs is called the Pleura. This pleural lining also lies on the inside of the chest. The pleural tissue layers separate the chest wall from the lungs. One layer is wrapped on the lung exterior and the other layer lines the inside of the wall of the chest. Any kind of an inflammation or swelling of this vital membrane causes a state called pleurisy, which can affect either or both sides of the chest. This inflation of the pleural cavity normally occurs because of an infection that attacks the lungs.

In between these two tissue layers lies a small area called pleural space that contains a little amount of fluid. This fluid prevents the aggressive rubbing of the chest and lungs and permits smooth breathing. This buildup of fluid in between the pleural lining leads to tenderness and inflammation in the pleura, and the condition is termed as pleural effusion. This condition has been noted in states of lung cancer and mesothelioma.

Pleural liquid in case of pleurisy acts as a lubricant, if it is there in small amounts. This little amount causes no pain but if the fluid in pleural cavity is in excess quantity then it wields stress on the pleura and disturbs the lung functioning. The breathing becomes labored and other lung conditions rise and any kind of expansion of the lungs become painful.

There is a restricted room that the lungs occupy and when the pleura get inflamed, trouble arises. This swelling causes the pleural membranes to brush hard and aggressively against each other, every time the person inhales and exhales. A constriction and severe pain rises in the lung region the moment he or she breathes in air if the condition is very severe. The pain can be unbearable during coughing, physical work and deep breathing. This inflammation may be because of pneumonia, viral infections, rheumatic fever, uremia, congestion, chest injury, clot in lung, or lung cancer.

The onset of pleurisy is in the form of congestion, chills and temperature. Higher the fever, worse the state as it means that the infection is strong. A diet that includes celery may be helpful in pleurisy as the seeds of this green plant have been said to have anti-spasmodic properties. Hog wood, the weed, can be dried and ground into a superfine residue and then this fine powder can be taken to get respite from the condition of pleurisy. You need to drink at least 5 glasses of water and use hot chest packs or heating pads of cotton to keep the pain in the lungs and chest under control. Milk and holy basil are also very effective in this lung condition.

A diet high in nutritional content and other home remedies can be taken to provide relief from the conditions of pleurisy. Conventional treatment of pleurisy involves the prescribing of anti-inflammatory (NSAIDs), or pain relieving drugs and loads of rest. Sometimes antibiotics are also given to get rid of the infection. Pleurisy herbal treatment help in provide relief from the condition in a safe and organic manner.