I avoid medication if at all possible and eat natural foods but when my asthma flairs, there is nothing but western medication that is going to work. There are some herbal things that can help but if a person is having actual asthma, he or she can end up with permanent lung damage (scarring inside and more) if they do not take proper medication. I'm glad you are going to a pulmo doc.
I have found that knowing allergic triggers (dust, etc) allows me to not need any asthma meds at all if I avoid those things except when I have a cold and then I am more susceptible to an asthma flare. Taking meds proactively can prevent this. A good doc will help you figure out your triggers so you will know how to avoid them. Good luck!