Hawaiian materia medica for asthma.

A literature search and traditional narration determined that at least 58 herbs with scientific names were commonly used by Hawaiians for asthma. Of particular note were Piper methysticum, solanum americanum, and Aleurites molucana with oral tradition singling out Sophora chrysophylla. These four therapeutic agents, especially Sophora, have scientific merit and warrant further investigation because of the recent increase in asthma mortality, their potential for improved patient compliance, minimal of side effects, and the low cost.