title: Use of alternative and complementary therapies for pediatric asthma.
abstract: This survey of 48 multicultural parents of children with asthma identifies and compares alternative and complementary treatments used for asthma, and compares any potentially effective or harmful effects. Thirty-nine (81%) of the parents used at least one form of alternative or complementary therapy to treat their child's asthma. Nontraditional therapies included prayer, over-the-counter medications, herbal teas, vitamins, and massage. African-American parents were more likely to rely on prayer, and Hispanic parents were more likely to use herbal and massage therapies. Use of over-the-counter medications and vitamins was similar among groups. Three herbal remedies were potentially toxic: lobelia, possible pennyroyal mint, and tree tea oil. Medical histories for all patients should include inquiries into the use of alternative therapies.
authors: Department of Pediatrics, The University of Texas-Houston Medical School, 6431 Fannin, Ste 3.138, Houston, TX 77030, USA.
authors: L J
authors: LJ
authors: Mazur
authors: L
authors: L
authors: De Ybarrondo
authors: J
authors: J
authors: Miller
authors: G
authors: G
authors: Colasurdo
mesh_terms: D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D001741:Black or African American; D018927:Anti-Asthmatic Agents / Q000627:therapeutic use; D001249:Asthma / Q000188:drug therapy / Q000628:therapy*; D002648:Child; D002675:Child, Preschool; D003131:Combined Modality Therapy; D000529:Complementary Therapies; D005260:Female; D006630:Hispanic or Latino; D006801:Humans; D007223:Infant; D008297:Male; D008487:Medical History Taking; D013781:Texas; D044465:White People
chemical_list: D018927:Anti-Asthmatic Agents