Which Treatment is Best for Asthma in Ayurveda ?

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Introduction:

Bronchial asthma is a major global problem that is increasing rapidly, much like the rise in pollution. Difficulty in breathing or shortness of breath, wheezing and coughing may be termed as Tamak Swasa. Vata and Kapha Dosha vitiated in Swasa as per Ayurveda. In disease where air (vayu) in the body moves upwards, the condition is called “swasa” ,in this disease, the breathing rate increase, which is why it is called “swasa”. Commonly known as” Dama”. swasa is disease of ” pranavaha srotas” ; prana means vital force,and strotas means channels of transportation and transformation. pranvaha srotas carries the vital force throughout the body .

Which Treatment is Best for Asthma in Ayurveda ?

Bronchial asthma is a common condition where the airways become inflamed and narrow, making breathing difficult. This problem is growing rapidly, especially in developed countries ..In today’s world, there is no completely effective cure for bronchial asthma. However, there is a need to find a cure that is affordable and effective, possibly through alternative medicine. Ancient healer Acharya Charak has mentioned various treatments and methods that could be explored.

The conventional approach to asthma treatment in modern medicine focuses on managing symptoms and preventing attacks. This is usually done with inhalers that deliver quick relief during an asthma attack or long-term control by reducing inflammation in the airways. Doctors may also prescribe medications to help relax the muscles around the airways or prevent allergic reactions that can trigger asthma. The goal is to keep asthma under control so that it doesn’t interfere with daily life.

Asthma affects multiple aspects of health, including breathing, immunity, and overall well-being. An integrated approach, combining modern medicine with alternative therapies, can address all these aspects for more effective management.Modern treatments like inhalers and medications help control symptoms, while alternative methods like breathing exercises, yoga, and dietary changes can reduce triggers and improve lung function, offering long-term relief.Relying solely on medications can sometimes lead to side effects. Integrating other therapies can reduce dependence on drugs and help manage asthma with fewer side effects.

Understanding Asthma:

Modern Medicine vs Ayurveda:

Modern View on Asthma:

Asthma is a chronic respiratory condition characterized by inflammation and narrowing of the airways, which makes breathing difficult. In modern medicine, asthma is understood as a condition where the airways become overly sensitive to certain triggers, such as allergens, pollutants, cold air, or exercise. When exposed to these triggers, the muscles around the airways tighten, and the lining of the airways swells, producing excess mucus. This leads to symptoms like wheezing, coughing, shortness of breath, and chest tightness.

Modern medicine identifies asthma as a long-term condition that can vary in severity from mild to life-threatening. It is typically managed through a combination of quick-relief medications, such as inhalers that open the airways during an attack, and long-term control medications, like corticosteroids, that reduce inflammation and prevent symptoms. The goal of modern asthma treatment is to control symptoms, prevent asthma attacks, and maintain normal lung function, allowing individuals to live active and healthy lives. Regular monitoring and avoidance of known triggers are also key components of managing asthma in modern medicine.

causes of triggers of Asthma:

Allergens: Substances like pollen, dust mites, mold, and pet dander can cause allergic reactions that lead to asthma symptoms.

Pollutants: Air pollution, smoke from cigarettes or fires, and fumes from vehicles can irritate the airways and trigger asthma.

Respiratory Infections: Colds, flu, and other respiratory infections can worsen asthma symptoms or trigger an asthma attack.

Exercise: Physical activity, especially in cold or dry air, can sometimes lead to exercise-induced asthma.

Weather Changes: Cold air, hot and humid conditions, or sudden changes in weather can provoke asthma symptoms.

Strong Odors and Chemicals: Fragrances, cleaning products, and other strong smells or chemicals can irritate the airways and trigger asthma.

Stress and Emotions: High levels of stress or strong emotions can sometimes lead to asthma symptoms or make them worse.
These triggers help in managing Asthma by avoiding or minimizing exposure to them.

Ayurveda perspective on Asthma:

Ayurveda describes asthma as “Tamak-swasa,” which shares similar symptoms with chronic respiratory conditions we see today. According to Ayurveda, health depends on a balance of three vital energies, called doshas: vata, pitta, and kapha. Diseases occur when these doshas are out of balance. In asthma, the imbalance of kapha and vata doshas leads to symptoms.

In bronchial asthma, dosha imbalance is caused by simultaneous aggravation of kapha & vata. The suggested set of factors may aggravate kapha & suggested set of factors may aggravate vata separately. But simultaneous aggravation of vata & kapha may be due to some specific causative factors which are described in Ayurveda texts,

Tamak Swasa, or bronchial asthma, is a condition that worsens at night, making it feel like you’re entering darkness due to the severe difficulty in breathing. This happens when certain foods (Vata prakopaka aahar) and activities (vihara) disturb the body’s balance,vayu gets vitiated in the body to flow in the wrong direction. The air moves into the respiratory system (pranvaha srotas), blocks the throat and head, and increases mucus(kapha) production, leading to a stuffy nose and wheezing.

When the airways are blocked, breathing becomes painful, deep, and fast. The patient may faint often and even lose consciousness while coughing. They feel very uncomfortable when they can’t cough up the mucus but get some relief once they do. Intense coughing can cause a hoarse voice and make speaking difficult. Lying down worsens the breathing, so the patient prefers sitting up and seeks warmth. Their eyes may look upward, and they may sweat on the forehead and have a dry mouth.

Breathing problems worsen with exposure to cold, wind, or damp weather. The disease will continue as long as the patient is exposed to the factors causing it, so understanding these triggers is crucial for treatment. Although specific causes of Tamak Swasa aren’t detailed separately in Ayurvedic texts, the general causes of breathing problems are provided.

Types of Swasa roga
Swasa roga has been classified basing on its signs and symptoms, pathogenesis and also
severity of the disease.
The Pancha swasa rogas are.

Maha swasa (Biot’s breathing)
Urdhva swasa (Stretorous breathing)
Chhinna swasa (Cheyne-stroke’s-respiration)
Tamak swasa (Asthma)
Kshudra swasa (Dyspnoea on exterion)

Ayurvedic prespective on triggers:

Causes of Tamaka Swasa are :

Intake of dry, cold, sweet , heavy to digest and light food combination – incompatible food and irregular intake of food . Excessive Intake of black gram, beans, sesame oil , meat of aquatic animals.Intake of cold water and exposure to cold climate

Exposure to dust, smoke and wind .Excessive exercise, over indulge in the sexual activityTrauma to throat, chest and vital organs.Suppression of natural urges.

These causes obstruct the channels and imbalances the doshas which further leads to Asthma “Tamak swasa”.

Pathogenies of Asthma:

prodromal symptoms:

These symptoms are found before the attack of Tamak swasa. So,
these can be classified into two ways-

1. Before onset of disease

2. Before attack of acuteexacerbation.

In Ayurvedic texts Purvarupa of Tamak swasa has not been described separately, so the Purvarupa of Swasa Roga may be considered as the Purvarupa of Tamak
swasa as Anaha (bloating), loss of appetite ,Parsvasoola (pain in flanks), Hritpeeda (pain in myocardium), distressful expiration, Pranasya
vilomata (death).
these symptoms show that respiratory and abdominal channels are involved .

Mostly person suffers from cold or nasal congestion, dry cough and hoarseness or throat pain

common symptoms:

In Ayurveda, the symptoms and signs of a disease are called “Rupa.” For Tamak Swasa (bronchial asthma), the key Rupa are as follows:

Teevravega Swasa: fast breathing.
Prana Prapeedaka Swasa: difficulty in breathing it feels life-threatening.
Rudda Swasa: Blocked or obstructed breathing.
Ghurghurka: Wheezing or murmuring sound while breathing.
Ativegatcha Pratamyati: Frequent, intense attacks of difficulty breathing.
Shleshmaamuchajanya Dukha: Discomfort and restlessness when mucus is not expelled.
Shlesma Vimokshana Janya Sukham: Temporary relief after coughing up mucus.
Kantodhvamsa: Choking feeling in the throat, making it hard to speak.
Peenasa: Runny nose (rhinitis).
Pramoha Muhra-muhra: Fainting repeatedly, especially while coughing.
Aseenolabhate Soukhyam: Cannot sleep while lying down due to difficulty in breathing but feels good in sitting position
Alpa Nidrata: Difficulty in sleeping (insomnia).
Utchhipta Aaksha: Eyes appear wide.
Lalate Sweda: Sweating on the forehead due to restlessness.
Bhrusam Arati: Feeling depressed.
Visashushkasya: Dry mouth.
Shareera Veedana: Body aches.
Usnabhinandati:likes to have warm things.
Meghambuna Vardhate: Condition worsens when it’s cloudy.
Sheetena Vardhate: Condition worsens in cold weather.
Pragvatena Vardhate: Condition worsens when exposed to winds or Kapha-aggravating foods.

These symptoms describe the severity and nature of Tamak Swasa, guiding its diagnosis and treatment in Ayurveda.

Integrated Approach to Asthma Management:

An integrated approach to managing asthma involves combining modern medical treatments with complementary practices like Ayurveda to provide a more holistic and effective way of controlling the condition. Here’s how this approach works:

1. Diagnosis and Monitoring

Modern Medicine:

Doctors use tests like spirometry (lung function tests), allergy tests, and regular check-ups to monitor asthma. This helps in understanding the severity of the condition and adjusting treatments as needed.

Ayurveda: An Ayurvedic practitioner evaluates your body’s Dosha imbalances and overall health to suggest personalized treatments. This adds another layer of understanding to the root causes of asthma beyond just the symptoms.

2. Combining Treatment Options-

Modern Medicine:

– Quick-Relief Medications: Inhalers that relax the airways are used during asthma attacks to provide immediate relief.

Long-Term Control: Medications like corticosteroids are used daily to reduce inflammation in the airways and prevent future asthma attacks.

Ayurveda:

Detoxification: Treatments like Panchakarma help cleanse the body, which may improve respiratory health.

Herbal Remedies: Herbs such as Vasaka and Licorice( mulethi , yashtimadhu) are used to support lung function, reduce inflammation, and clear mucus from the respiratory tract.

Take 3gms of licorice root powder in 100ml of water and boil like tea. Drinking this tea two to three times a day is good for asthma.

3. Lifestyle and Dietary Adjustments:

Modern Medicine: Avoiding Triggers: Identifying and avoiding triggers like allergens, smoke, or cold air is key to preventing asthma attacks. –

Healthy Lifestyle: Staying active, maintaining a healthy weight, and quitting smoking are essential for managing Asthma.-

Ayurveda: Dietary Changes: Following a Kapha-pacifying diet, which includes warm, light, and easily digestible foods, can help manage asthma symptoms.

Daily Routine (Dinacharya): Incorporating practices like yoga and pranayama (breathing exercises) into your daily routine can strengthen lung function and reduce stress, which is beneficial for asthma.

4. Focus on Preventive Care-

Modern Medicine:

Vaccinations: Staying up to date with vaccinations helps prevent respiratory infections that can trigger asthma. –

Medication Adherence: Sticking to prescribed treatments and regular monitoring helps in keeping asthma under control. –

Ayurveda: – Seasonal Detox: Regular detoxification, especially during seasonal changes, can help prevent asthma flare-ups by keeping the body balanced.

Stress Management: Techniques like meditation and relaxation exercises help manage stress, which can otherwise worsen asthma symptoms.

Herbal Remedies and Medications:

Tamak Shwasa (Asthma) is difficult to cure. The treatment depends on the stage of the Asthma: –

Vegaawastha (Acute Stage): This stage can last for a few minutes, hours, or days, depending on the imbalance of Doshas and the blockage in the body’s channels. –

Avegaawastha (Between Attacks): This is the period between two asthma attacks .Tamak Shwasa is caused by the involvement of both Vata and Kapha Doshas.

However, according to ancient texts, there are two types of Tamak Shwasa based on which Dosha is more dominant:

– If Vata is more dominant, it is called Vatabhiyusht.

– If Kapha is more dominant, it is called Kaphabhiyusht.

The treatment differs based on which Dosha is more imbalanced.

In Kapha-dominant Tamak Shwasa (Asthma), mucus comes out easily, and there is less coughing. A rattling sound (rhonchi) can be heard all over the chest.

In Vata-dominant Tamak Shwasa, there is more dry coughing, and only a little mucus comes out after a lot of coughing. During a chest examination, wheezing is heard, and the person may feel a whistling sound in their chest. This type of Tamak Shwasa is more uncomfortable and distressing.

During the Vegaawastha (acute stage), treatment is given to correct the upward movement of air (Vayu) and direct it downward.

single herbs easily available at home can be used are ginger juice or vasaka leaves juice 10ml with honey for 2 times a day can be tried.

In the Avegaawastha (between attacks), treatments focus on strengthening and rejuvenating the respiratory organs. chyawanprash avleha ,Amalaki rasayan ,Dhatri rasayan can be taken.

Panchakarma: This treatment is given to strong individuals with Kapha-dominant Tamak Shwasa. It includes therapies like: –

Vaman (emesis therapy): Inducing vomiting to clear mucus. –

Virechan (purgation): Cleansing the body. –

Dhumpana (medicated smoking): To clear the airways.

For Vaman, herbs like Vacha, Yastimadhu, Pippali, and ingredients like Sendha Namak (rock salt) and honey are used. For better results, a decoction of Yastimadhu, rock salt, or sugarcane juice can also be used. Vomiting helps remove the sticky mucus from the airways, making the person feel better.For better results, Vaman therapy (induced vomiting) should be done in May, as asthma attacks are more common during the rainy season and Spring season. Before Vaman, massage the chest externally with sesame oil and rock salt. For internal oleation (oiling), sesame oil and oily herbs are used to prepare the body. This helps in correcting the upward movement of Vata (air) in the body.

Virechan (purgation) is also a good option for correcting the upward movement of Vata. However, if Panchakarma treatments are used, they should be done carefully by healthcare professionals.

Conservative (Shaman) Treatment: This treatment is given to weak individuals with Vata-dominant Tamak Shwasa. It involves nourishing the body with oleation (oiling) and soups.-

Oleation: In the acute stage, two teaspoons of sesame oil or Narayana oil with warm water are given to nourish the body and help in downward direction of vayu.- Even in cases of Kapha dominance, external massage with the sesame oil is recommended.

Formulations:

Medications like

vati/tablets: Sameer Panaag ras,Vyuoshaadi vati,Arogyavardini vati , Shwaskuthara vati .

Asava : Kanakasav,Yastimadhu Kalpa, and are safely used in treatment.

Avleha: Kantakarya Avleha, Agastya Avleha, Dhanyaaadi Avleha, Bharangi guda .

churna /powder: shringaadi churna , sunthyaadi churna,talisaadi churna , sitopaladi churna .

Dhumpana (medicated smoking): Just like nebulizers are used today, Dhumpana was used with Yastimadhu (licorice) in the past in acute attack to expell the left over mucus after vaman.

During Avegaawastha (between attacks), nourishing treatments are given, including Chusasta Pippali or Wardmaan Pippali.

Formulations containing Amla, like Dhatri Avleha and Chyawanprash Avleha, are preferred for their health benefits.

Some good Parpati formulations are also used to reduce the frequency of Asthma attacks.

Preventive Medicine:

Sanjivani Vati, Narayana oil with warm water, and Vasa Avleha are recommended to help prevent recurrent Asthma attacks.

Diet:

In Ayurveda, diet plays a crucial role in managing asthma by balancing the doshas, especially Vata and Kapha, which are typically aggravated in this condition. Here are some dietary guidelines and foods recommended for asthma management:

Here’s the content organized under suitable headings:

Ayurvedic Dietary Guidelines for Asthma

1. Warm and Easily Digestible Foods

Prefer warm, cooked foods to aid digestion and reduce mucus buildup.
Light and easily digestible meals help prevent the accumulation of Kapha.

2. Kapha-Pacifying Diet

Avoid heavy, oily, and dairy-rich foods that increase Kapha, such as cheese, yogurt, and ice cream.
Limit intake of sweets, cold drinks, and processed foods.

3. Incorporate Spices

Use warming spices like dry ginger, black pepper, turmeric, cinnamon, and cumin to aid digestion and reduce mucus.
Include garlic and ginger, which have expectorant properties that help clear the respiratory tract.

4. Avoid Incompatible Food Combinations

Avoid mixing incompatible foods, such as fruit with dairy, which can create toxins and worsen asthma.

5. Stay Hydrated

Drink warm water throughout the day to help clear mucus and keep the respiratory system clear.
Herbal teas with ingredients like tulsi (holy basil), ginger, and licorice are beneficial.

Recommended Foods for Asthma

1. Vegetables

Cooked green leafy vegetables, carrots, beets, patola and bathua can be prefer as they are easy to digest and do not increase Kapha.
Avoid tuber vegetables like potato, sweet potato, mustard leaves, lady fingers .

2. Fruits

Opt for warm, cooked fruits like apples, pears, and berries.
Avoid bananas and cold fruits, which can increase mucus production.

3. Grains

Consume warm, light grains such as barley, millet, quinoa, and sasthika rice.
Avoid heavy grains like wheat and bread.

4. Legumes

Mung beans and lentils are preferable as they are lighter and easier to digest.
Avoid kidney beans, black gram, kulatha, and other heavy legumes.

5. Healthy Fats

Use small amounts of ghee or sesame oil, which are warming and help balance Vata without aggravating Kapha.

Foods to Avoid

1. Dairy Products

Milk, cheese, yogurt, and other dairy products are heavy and increase Kapha, leading to more mucus.

2. Cold and Processed Foods

Cold drinks, ice cream, frozen foods, and processed snacks should be avoided as they can aggravate asthma symptoms.

3. Red Meat and Fried Foods

These foods are difficult to digest and can increase inflammation and mucus.

Following an Ayurvedic diet that balances Vata and Kapha can help manage asthma by reducing triggers and improving overall respiratory health. Along with the diet, consider integrating yoga, pranayama, and herbal remedies as part of a holistic approach to asthma management.

Yoga for Asthma in Ayurveda: Daily Practices for Good Breathing

In Ayurveda, yoga is considered a powerful tool for managing asthma and improving respiratory health. Here are some yoga practices that can help enhance breathing on a daily basis:

Pranayama (Breathing Exercises):

Anulom Vilom (Alternate Nostril Breathing): Balances the doshas and clears nasal passages, helping in smoother breathing.
Bhramari (Humming Bee Breath): Calms the mind and soothes the respiratory system, reducing stress-induced asthma.
Kapalbhati (Skull Shining Breath): Strengthens the lungs and clears mucus, but should be practiced gently if you have asthma.

Asanas (Postures):

Sukhasana (Easy Pose): Promotes deep breathing and relaxes the chest.
Bhujangasana (Cobra Pose): Opens up the chest and improves lung capacity.
Ardha Matsyendrasana (Half Spinal Twist): Enhances lung function by stimulating the respiratory system.
Setu Bandhasana (Bridge Pose): Expands the chest and strengthens the lungs.

Shavasana (Corpse Pose):

This pose promotes relaxation, reduces stress, and supports better breathing by calming the nervous system.

Tips for Daily Practice:

Practice yoga in a well-ventilated, clean space, preferably in the morning.
Combine yoga with a Kapha-pacifying diet and regular Ayurvedic treatments for best results.
Consult a healthcare provider before starting if you have severe asthma.

By integrating these yoga practices into your daily routine, you can support better breathing and overall respiratory health, complementing your Ayurvedic treatment for asthma.

Conclusion:

Combining modern medicine with Ayurveda offers a comprehensive approach to managing asthma. Modern medicine provides effective symptom relief and long-term control, while Ayurveda focuses on holistic health, balancing the body, and preventing future issues. This integration ensures better asthma management and overall well-being. However, it’s crucial to consult both a medical doctor and an Ayurvedic practitioner to create a personalized, safe, and effective treatment plan. This collaboration helps you achieve better respiratory health and a higher quality of life.

Also Read : Balanced Diet in Health and Disease prevention in Ayurveda

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FAQs on Asthma

What Causes Asthma? Asthma can be triggered by various factors, including allergens (like pollen, dust mites, and pet dander), air pollution, respiratory infections, exercise, cold air, and stress. Genetics and environmental factors also play a role in developing asthma
. Can Asthma Be Cured? Asthma cannot be cured, but it can be effectively managed with proper treatment and lifestyle changes. Many people with asthma live normal, active lives by controlling their symptoms and avoiding triggers.
How is Asthma Diagnosed? Asthma is diagnosed through a combination of medical history, physical examination, and lung function tests like spirometry. Doctors may also perform allergy tests to identify specific triggers.
. What Should I Do During an Asthma Attack? During an asthma attack: – Use your quick-relief inhaler immediately. – Sit upright and try to remain calm. – If symptoms do not improve, seek emergency medical help.
How Can I Manage Asthma with Lifestyle Changes?Managing asthma involves avoiding triggers, maintaining a healthy weight, exercising regularly (while being mindful of exercise-induced symptoms), and following a balanced diet. Incorporating stress management techniques like yoga and meditation can also help.
Can Asthma Change Over Time? Yes, asthma symptoms can change over time. Factors like age, environment, and overall health can affect the severity and frequency of asthma symptoms. Regular check-ups with your doctor are important to adjust your treatment plan as needed.

Asthma Information

Dr . Manjeet Kaur