Ayurvedic Treatment To Asthma

Asthma is known as "Tamak Shwas" in Ayurveda. Most of the people with asthma learn to live with their problem, and modern treatment allows them to immediately control and limit the attack of asthma. The Ayurvedic herbal treatment of asthma is highly relevant today, since if used judiciously, Ayurvedic treatment can significantly reduce the intensity and frequency of episodes of asthma.



For the sake of treatment, many Ayurvedic physicians consider two types of asthma, the first with predominance of "Kapha", and the second with predominance of "Vata". Some physicians also consider a third type which is associated more with "Pitta" dosha. The constitution of the patient is also taken into consideration while deciding the course of Ayurvedic treatment for each individual patient. During an attack of asthma, as per selection of patients according to the Ayurvedic principles, patients with a strong constitution are given induced vomiting (Vaman), some are given smoke inhalation of various herbs, and some are given induced purgation (Virechan). Patients with weak constitution are given oral medicated lubricants, medicines and medicated soups.

Some Ayurvedic medicines which are useful in asthma are Kanakasav, Yashtimadhu (Glycerrhiza glabra), Kantakaryavaleha compounds and Sameerpannag. Some Ayurvedic physicians use Mahanarayan (containing mainly Asparagus racemosus) oil and warm Yashtimadhu decoction every 5 - 10 minutes till the acute attack of asthma subsides. It is believed that chronic inflammation of the lungs is the main cause of asthma, and various other trigger factors lead to the acute asthma attack. Therefore, the goal of Ayurvedic treatment in between acute attacks is to reduce the lung inflammation, and to increase the immunity of the body on the whole, and the mucous membrane of the nose, throat and the lungs, in particular. Chausastha Pippali (treated Piper longum), or a course of medicine called "Vardhaman Pippali" is very much effective. Products containing Amalaki( Emblica officinalis ) like Dhatri avaleha, Chyawanprashavaleha and Bhallatak (Semicarpus anacardium ) products like Bhallatakasav are also used. Hingashtaka Churna, Samasharkar Churna, Rasa Parpati, Karpuradi Churna and Sanjivani Vati are also used with good results. Several herbal combinations are available which contain effective medicines in tablet form, which can easily be taken orally. As all medicines do not benefit all patients; the patient selection is very important.



Patients generally have an aggravation of asthma with the onset of winter or monsoon. Patients with a strong constitution, to avoid asthma attacks during these seasons can have induced vomiting done before the onset of these seasons. However, these procedures should be done by qualified and experienced physicians at well-equipped clinics. All patients should have an early and light evening meal and it is best to avoid known trigger factors and refrigerated and fermented food products. It is beneficial to use tolerable amounts of garlic and ginger in the daily diet .Some of the patients also benefit with the use of warm water for drinking. Ayurvedic treatment recommends that a person suffering from Asthma follow strict dietary restrictions. He should consume only a limited quantity of proteins, fats and carbohydrates. However, patient should consume large quantities of fresh fruits, green vegetables and sprouted seeds. Rice, sugar, tea, coffee, curd, other alcoholic beverages, processed foods, spicy foods, etc. are best avoided.

• John Palsson
• 07/12/2008, 10:59 PM
• 0 Comments