Asthma Safest Management With Ayurveda And Herbal Medicine

Abstract

Asthma is a chronic respiratory disease that affects millions of people worldwide. It is characterized by airflow obstruction, cough, wheezing and dyspnea. The term asthma is derived from the Greek word “ásthma,” which translates to “panting” or “shortness of breath”. It is also referred to as bronchial asthma. It is one of the most prevalent diseases worldwide. Asthma can affect both children and adults. The incidences of asthma has been rising in urban areas due to factors like air pollution, dust, smoke and lifestyle changes. In ayurveda, asthma is seen as a condition caused by an imbalance in doshas (humors). These are –vata, Pitta and Kapha.  Ayurvedic treatment for asthma aims to reduce inflammation, manage triggers, and improve respiratory functions.

Introduction

Bronchial asthma is a common chronic condition where the immune system overreacts, leading to inflammation and narrowing of airways. Factors like environmental pollution, lifestyle changes and higher levels of stress may contribute to the sensitivity of the immune system, triggering asthma symptoms more easily. The inflammation causes constriction of bronchioles and increased mucus production, leading to obstruction in airways of the lung. This causes symptoms such as shortness of breath, cough, wheezing and tightness in the chest. Some people may experience asthma flare-ups that are sudden and can get more severe. Proper diagnosis and treatment are essential for managing asthma and controlling its symptoms. With the right approach, it can be managed, allowing people to live healthy lives.

Airways Of The Lungs

The airway refers to the path through which air travels in and out. It consists of several structures that bring air from the outside world into the lungs. They are as follow

1. Nose/Mouth: These are the openings through which air first enters the body.
2. Pharynx (Throat): It is a passageway that connects nose and mouth to the larynx and trachea, allowing air to move down.
3. Larynx (Voice Box): It acts as passage of air from the pharynx to trachea. It also prevents the entry of food and liquid into the lungs.
4. Trachea (windpipe): It is a large tube which carries air from the larynx to the lungs.
5. Bronchi: these are two main airways that branch off from the trachea, leading to each lung.
6. Bronchiole: These are smaller airways that branch off from the bronchi and spread throughout the lungs.
7. Alveoli: They are tiny sacs located at the end of bronchioles in the lungs. Gases exchange takes place at this part.

Causes And Some Triggers of Asthma

Asthma is a condition with many possible causes. It is likely caused by a combination of environmental influences and genetic factors. Causes of asthma are as follow

1. Environmental Factors

• Allergens – allergens such as dust, pollen, mites, mold etc. can provoke symptoms of asthma in those people who are sensitive to those.
• Air pollution – Exposure to industrial pollutants, tobacco smoke, chemical fumes, cigarette smoke, car exhaust etc. can increase the risk of asthma.

2. Genetic Factor

• Family history of respiratory disorders such as asthma, bronchitis or any other respiratory allergy can increase the likelihood of development of asthma.

3. Respiratory Infections

• Viral infections such as rhinovirus, influenza, adenovirus etc. can increase inflammation in the lungs, thus increasing the chances of development of asthma.
• Bacterial infections can play a role in exacerbating the symptoms of asthma.

4. Weather

• Cold air can cause tightness in airways, and make it harder to breath.
• Humidity can promote growth of molds, mites or other bacteria that can trigger symptoms of asthma.
• Strong wind can increase pollen and other allergens in environments. This can worsen the air quality and trigger the symptoms of asthma.

5. Obesity

• Obesity can increase the risk of asthma by causing inflammation and altering lung functions.

6. Dietary Factors

• Food allergies, such as to nuts or dairy can trigger asthma symptoms
• Diet low in antioxidants can increase inflammation and provoke the symptoms of asthma.
• Cold drinks and cold food can worsen the symptoms of asthma

7. Medications

• Certain medications can trigger and worsen the symptoms of asthma such medications are Aspirin, Beta-blocker, some antihistamines etc.

Symptoms of Asthma

The symptoms of asthma can vary from mild to severe. They are as follow

• Persistent coughing, mostly at night
• Wheezing sound during breathing in and out
• Shortness of breath
• A sensation of tightness or pressure in the chest
• Production of thick mucus or phlegm
• Rapid breathing
• Bluish discoloration of lips and nails

Asthma Attack or Flare-Up

It is a condition in which the symptoms of asthma suddenly get worse. The asthma attack or flare-up feels like your breathing is suddenly being blocked. The airway in lungs becomes more inflamed, narrow and gets filled with mucus. This causes difficulty in breathing, making it harder to breathe. During an asthma attack you may experience sudden coughing, struggle to breathe or hear a wheezing sound when you breathe. This can happen quickly and it can make you feel breathless. This sudden attack of asthma can be triggered by various factors such as dusty environments, car exhaust, physical activities in cold areas, respiratory infections, cold and dry air etc. These factors can irritate the airways of lungs, thus causing inflammation.

Diagnosis of Asthma

There is no specific test that can confirm asthma on its own. As this is a long term lung condition, it is diagnosed by reviewing medical history and symptoms. Some diagnostic measure of asthma include

1. Medical History Review

• History of previous lung infection.
• History of any allergies
• Family history

2. Physical Exam

• Using a stethoscope to hear lung sounds such as wheezing and crackling sound.
• Assessing breathing patterns
• Checking skin rashes due to allergy, nasal congestion or other health conditions.

3. Lung Function Test

• Spirometry
• Peak flow measurement

4. Allergy Testing

• Pollen allergy
• Dust allergy
• Food allergy
• Pet dander
• Mold
• Allergies from strong chemical fumes or perfumes

5. Imaging Techniques

• Chest X-ray
• High-resolution CT scan
• MRI

Management of Asthma

The symptoms and flare-up of asthma can be managed by following steps

1. Avoid Triggers

• Identify and avoid the triggers.
• Maintain hygiene

2. Exercise

• Regular physical activity
• Weight management

3. Diet

• Eat foods that are rich in antioxidants such as leafy greens, carrots, tomatoes and blueberries.
• Eat omega-3 fatty acid rich food such as walnuts, chia seeds and flax seeds.
• Take an adequate amount of vitamin D.

4. Medications

• Antibiotics
• Long term control medications
• Quick relief medications
• Corticosteroids
• Combination inhaler

Complication of Asthma

When the condition is not properly managed or controlled, asthma can lead to some complications such as

• Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD)
• Pneumonia
• Pulmonary Hypertension
• Asthma-COPD Overlap Syndrome (ACOS)
• Bronchiectasis
• Respiratory Failure

Ayurvedic Concept

In ayurveda, respiratory disorders are associated with the condition Shwas Vyadhi (breathing related disorders). It is considered as a disorder of pranavaha srotas (respiratory channels) in ayurveda. Pranavaha srotas are the channels through which the prana vayu (life force energy) circulates in the body. It controls the respiratory system. When this prana vayu is disturbed due to vitiated kapha and vata dosha, it starts to move abnormally in an upward direction, it causes symptoms such as wheezing and labored breathing. This breathing sound is described as Bhastrika (bellow-like breathing) in ayurvedic texts. This sound is characteristic of asthma and other respiratory disorders.  Shwas vyadhi (respiratory disorders) is classified into different types on the basis of its symptoms. The symptoms of various types of Shwas Vyadhi (respiratory disorders) in ayurveda can be correlated with modern respiratory conditions, including bronchial asthma. The types of shwas vyadhi ((respiratory disorders) are Maha shwas (Biot`s Breathing), Urdhawa Shwas (stertorous breathing), Chinna shwas (Cheyne-Stoke breathing), Kshudra shwas (dyspnoea), Tamak shwas (bronchial asthma). The characteristics of bronchial asthma closely resemble the condition “tamak-swasa” as described in ayurvedic texts. The symptoms of tamak shwas (bronchial asthma) are kasa (cough), pratamyati (dyspnoea), pramohan (loss of consciousness), dukhitaha (distress), kantha udhwamsa (difficulty in speaking), anindra (not able to sleep), vishushka asya (dryness of mouth) and muhur shwas (breathlessness in repeated cycle). 

Ayurvedic Approach In Managing Asthma

In ayurveda, asthma is considered as a result of an imbalance in the doshas (vata, pitta, kapha). The ayurvedic approach in treating asthma focuses on restoring balance between the mind, body and spirit. The treatment typically include

1. Diet

• Warm and light food
• Avoiding cold and heavy foods.
• Adding food that is good for the immune system such as garlic, honey and ghee.

2. Herbs

• You can take herbs which have anti-inflammatory and bronchodilatory properties such as turmeric, cumin, ginger and black pepper.
• Licorice has a soothing property, thus it can be used.
• Amla (Indian gooseberry) can reduce kapha dosha.

3. Panchkarma

• Swedana (steam therapy) can be done to open up pores and to expel toxins from the body.
• Abhyanga (Oil massage) helps in reducing stress and calming down the nervous system.
• Nasya (nasal therapy) is helpful in clearing congestion and opening airways for better circulation.

Herbal Remedies For Asthma By Planet Ayurveda

Planet Ayurveda’s 100% Pure Vegetarian Asthma Care Pack is designed to provide a natural and holistic approach to managing asthma, with no added chemicals or preservatives. This carefully curated pack includes herbal supplements that are free from artificial additives, ensuring a safe and effective treatment for asthma. Each of these products is made using only the finest, purest herbal ingredients, helping to restore balance to the respiratory system and alleviate asthma symptoms.

1. Praanrakshak Churna
2. Aller-G Care
3. Tulsi Capsules
4. Shwas Kuthar Ras

Product Description

1. Praanrakshak Churna

It is an Ayurvedic herbal formulation specifically designed to support the respiratory system and manage conditions like asthma and bronchitis. It is prepared using a blend of powerful herbs known for their bronchodilator, anti-inflammatory, and immune-boosting properties. The key ingredients are Vaasa (Adhatoda vasica), Anantmool (Tylophora asthmatica), Shirish (Albizia lebbeck), Mulethi (Glycyrrhiza glabra) and several other herbs. The expectorant properties of these herbs help clear mucus from the lungs, reducing coughing and wheezing. The herbs in the churna strengthen the immune system, making the body less susceptible to respiratory infections and allergies.

Dosage – 1 tsp, two times a day with warm water after meals.

2. Aller-G Care

These capsules are made with a blend of herbs such as  Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera), Haridra (Curcuma longa), Shirish (Albizia lebbeck) and other herbs. These herbs have the ability to calm inflammation, reduce oxidative damage, and support the body’s natural ability to heal and restore balance. They also have antibacterial and antiseptic properties that help maintain respiratory health. They are designed to help support clear, easy breathing and promote proper lung function, making it easier to breathe comfortably throughout the day. They are safe for people of all ages, these capsules can be taken as a daily supplement to enhance respiratory health and overall well-being.

Dosage – 2 capsules, two times daily after meal with warm water.

3. Tulsi Capsules

These capsules are made using 100% pure extracts derived naturally from the Tulsi herb (Ocimum sanctum) . The product is completely pure and is available in an easy-to-consume capsule form. It is packed with antioxidants that reduce inflammation. It strengthens the body’s defenses against infections and illnesses. With its soothing properties, tulsi helps reduce coughing and other respiratory irritations associated with asthma.

Dosage – Take 1-2 capsules, twice a day with plain water, after meals.

4. Shwas Kuthar Ras

It is a traditional Ayurvedic formulation designed to support respiratory health and manage conditions like asthma, bronchitis, and other respiratory disorders. It is made with herbs such as Maricha Churna (Powder of Piper nigrum), Shudha Parada (Purified Mercury), Shunthi churna (Powder of Zingiber officinale) and several other herbs. It helps clear excess mucus and phlegm from the lungs, easing breathing and reducing symptoms of chest tightness.

Dosage – 1-2 tablets twice daily, after meals.

Conclusion

In this article I have concluded about asthma. It is a chronic condition where the immune system overreacts, leading to inflammation and narrowing of airways. We discussed its causes, symptoms, types, diagnosis, management, complications, ayurvedic aspect and home remedies for asthma. Medications, lifestyle changes, and avoiding triggers play a key role in asthma management. Early intervention and ongoing care are essential to preventing complications and minimizing the long-term effects of the disease. With the right approach, people with asthma can lead active, healthy lives.