Respiratory System
Respiration is one of the most vital functions of any living creature, influencing the health of every organ and cell in the body since oxygen is essential for life-giving functions.
According to Ayurveda, the accumulation of Amas (toxins) plays a vital role in the development of respiratory disorders. The increased toxin levels result in low immunity, making the body intolerant of various substances and ultimately causing respiratory distress.
Additionally, Kapha dosha is often implicated in respiratory conditions while an imbalance in Vata can also induce respiratory issues.
Management techniques include adopting a suitable diet to enhance digestive power (Agni) and indulging in therapies such as Vamana, Virechana, Vasty, and Nasya.
Causes:
-
Aggravation of Vata and Kapha Doshas due to environmental factors.
-
Allergies, pollution, and emotional stress.
-
Poor digestion and accumulation of Ama (toxins) in the body.
Symptoms:
-
Difficulty breathing, wheezing, and shortness of breath.
-
Chest tightness, cough, and excess mucus production.
-
Increased breathing rate during attacks.
Panchakarma Treatment:
-
Virechana (purgation therapy)
-
Nasya (nasal therapy)
-
Pottali Sweda(herbal bolus fomentation)
Medications:
-
Sitopaladi Churna (for respiratory health)
-
Talisadi Churna (to balance Kapha and clear mucus)
-
Brahmi Ghrita (for calming Vata and improving respiratory function)
Causes:
-
Long-term smoking, air pollution, and genetic factors.
-
imbalance of Kapha and Vata Doshas affecting lung tissues.
-
Weak digestion and low respiratory capacity.
Symptoms:
-
Persistent cough, mucus production, and wheezing.
-
Shortness of breath and chest tightness.
-
Fatigue, difficulty in performing physical activities.
Panchakarma Treatment:
-
Virechana (purgation therapy)
-
Nasya (nasal therapy)
-
Pottali Sweda (herbal bolus fomentation)
Medications:
-
Chyavanprash (boosts immunity and lung health)
-
Kutajarishta (to reduce excess Kapha and manage cough)
-
Mulethi (Licorice) powder (to clear respiratory passages and soothe inflammation)
Causes:
-
Viral or bacterial infections and excess Kapha Dosha.
-
Smoking, environmental pollutants, and weak immunity.
-
Poor digestion and exposure to cold weather.
Symptoms:
-
Persistent cough, production of thick mucus.
-
Shortness of breath and chest discomfort.
-
Wheezing and fatigue.
Panchakarma Treatment:
-
Virechana (purgation therapy)
-
Nasya (nasal therapy)
-
Pottali Sweda (herbal bolus fomentation)
Medications:
-
Talisadi Churna(balances Kapha and clears mucus)
-
Vasaka (Malabar Nut) syrup (for treating bronchitis)
-
Sitopaladi Churna (to strengthen lungs and respiratory function)
Causes:
-
Bacterial, viral, or fungal infections affecting the lungs.
-
Weak Kapha and Vata Doshas, poor immunity.
-
Exposure to cold and damp environments.
Symptoms:
-
Fever, cough, and difficulty breathing.
-
Chest pain, fatigue, and mucus production.
-
Rapid breathing and sweating.
Panchakarma Treatment:
-
Virechana (purgation therapy)
-
Nasya (nasal therapy)
-
Pottali Sweda (herbal bolus fomentation)
Medications:
-
Kanakasava (for strengthening lung tissues)
-
Pushkarmoola (for clearing the respiratory system)
-
Brahmi Ghrita (to reduce inflammation and promote healing)
Causes:
-
Bacterial infection (Mycobacterium tuberculosis).
-
Aggravation of Kapha and Vata Doshas.
-
Poor immunity, malnutrition, and exposure to infected individuals.
Symptoms:
-
Persistent cough, blood in sputum, and weight loss.
-
Night sweats, fever, and chest pain.
-
Fatigue and weakness.
Panchakarma Treatment:
-
Virechana (purgation therapy)
-
Nasya (nasal therapy)
-
Kashaya Vast (decoction enema)
-
Pottali Sweda (herbal bolus fomentation)
Medications:
-
Vasaka (Malabar nut) syrup (for tuberculosis and chronic cough)
-
Chandanasava (helps to clear toxins from the respiratory system)
-
Ashwagandha (boosts immunity and supports lung function)
Causes:
-
Inflammation of sinuses due to infection, allergens, or pollutants.
-
Imbalance of Kapha and Vata Doshas.
-
Weak digestion and environmental triggers.
Symptoms:
-
Nasal congestion, headache, and facial pain.
-
Thick nasal discharge, cough, and sore throat.
-
Fever and fatigue.
Panchakarma Treatment:
-
Nasya (nasal therapy)
-
Virechana (purgation therapy)
-
Pottali Sweda (herbal bolus fomentation)
Medications:
-
Triphala Churna (supports immune system and reduces inflammation)
-
Kantakari (helps in clearing nasal congestion and relieving sinus pressure)
-
Chandanasava (soothing and healing for sinus issues)
Causes:
-
Obstruction of airways during sleep due to Kapha Dosha imbalance.
-
Excess weight, weak respiratory muscles, and nasal blockages.
-
Sedentary lifestyle and alcohol consumption.
Symptoms:
-
Loud snoring, frequent waking during the night.
-
Daytime fatigue and irritability.
-
Difficulty concentrating and headaches.
Panchakarma Treatment:
-
Nasya (nasal therapy)
-
Shirodhara (oil therapy on forehead)
-
Pottali Sweda (herbal bolus fomentation)
Medications:
-
Brahmi (improves sleep quality and relaxes the mind)
-
Shankhapushpi (calms the nervous system and improves sleep)
-
Ashwagandha (supports respiratory function and reduces stress)
Causes:
-
Allergic reaction to pollen, dust, or pollutants.
-
Imbalance of Kapha and Vata Doshas.
-
Weak immune system and poor digestion.
Symptoms:
-
Sneezing, runny nose, and nasal congestion.
-
Itchy eyes, coughing, and post-nasal drip.
-
Fatigue and irritability.
Panchakarma Treatment:
-
Nasya (nasal therapy)
-
Virechana (purgation therapy)
-
Kashaya Vasti (decoction enema)
-
Pottali Sweda (herbal bolus fomentation)
Medications:
-
Sitopaladi Churna(clears nasal passages and relieves symptoms)
-
Talisadi Churna (balances Kapha and clears mucus)
-
Anu Taila (for nasal congestion and improving airways)