As the lungs in the human body are working all the time, it is essential to keep them healthy. With the increase in atmospheric pollution, unknowingly we inhale numerous bacteria, viruses, or other allergens into our respiratory system. The human body is equipped to filter out most of the impurities in the air to supply healthy and fresh air which plays a major role in keeping the body healthy. But cases may arise where the respiratory system gets affected by harmful viruses which results in impure air reaching the lungs making the cells unhealthy. Respiratory diseases exhibit symptoms such as laboured breathing, coughing, wheezing, excessive production of mucus, chest pain, etc. Ayurveda treatment for lungs disease involves a gradual process of holistic healing starting with detoxification, yoga and breathing exercises, meditation, lifestyle changes including dietary habits.
Bronchial tubes -a part of the respiratory system- are a carrier of air to and from the Lungs. Bronchitis is a condition resulting in inflammation of the bronchial tube lining. According to Ayurveda, bronchitis is a Kasa roga / Cough disease. Ayurveda considers a vitiated digestion the cause of Bronchitis. As a result, a person seeking help in managing bronchitis is often prescribed medications that can help both lungs and stomach. In restoring the digestive balance, it is essential to understand the weakness in the digestive process and the remedial measures administered for its cure. An inflamed bronchial tube discharges a fluid called phlegm and usually occurs in damp or cold climatic conditions. It can also occur as a symptom of tuberculosis and many other diseases.
A chronic form of bronchitis is Allergic bronchitis, which is caused due to being exposed to the allergens – also referred to as the triggers – which might be dust, smoke, pollen, pollution, etc. Once triggered, chronic bronchitis might take weeks or even months in certain cases. Asthma is yet another respiratory disease caused due to allergic reactions to external factors that result in an inflamed airway. When the two conditions, Asthma and Bronchitis occur together, it is called Asthmatic Bronchitis.
One of the most common causes of Allergic bronchitis is Cigarette/tobacco smoking. Smoke inhaled from these contains harsh chemicals which are capable of irritating the bronchial tubes leading to excessive production of mucus into the lungs causing Lungs infection.
Symptoms to look out for:
- Productive Cough (Clear / White mucus)
- Persistent morning cough
- Congested Sinus
- Fatigue
- Wheezing
- Dyspnea / Shortness of breath
- Tight feeling in the chest
To diagnose Allergic bronchitis, a few physical examinations need to be conducted which includes,
- Sputum test
- Lungs function test
- Chest X-ray
After examining the test results, the doctor will discuss in detail the medical history and symptoms to understand the condition properly to move ahead with a treatment plan.
Ayurveda classifies chronic bronchitis as a result of aggravated Vata that affects the lungs. It can result in the body being allergic to Dhuma / Smoke and Raja / Dust leading to persistent mucus production and running nose and is most frequently found in those performing Vata enhancing activities.
Treatments
Ayurvedic way of treating any ailment is by balancing the vitiated dosha. Herbs, either alone or as a combination are to be used as per guidance from the doctor for the desired effect.
The most basic form of treatment is having a glass of warm turmeric milk on a regular basis. Turmeric has natural anti-inflammatory properties which can help relieve the discomforts caused by bronchitis.
The herbs like ginger, pepper, and black pepper combined with a dash of honey can be consumed twice or thrice a day. These herbs exhibit antipyretic properties and help balance metabolism.
Juices of herbs like Vasa, Sitopaladi Churna, Kapha Chintamani, honey, etc are effective in curing congested throat with the presence of catechu.
These herbs help cure fever as well that might arise due to infections owing to its anti-pyretic and stimulant nature.
Apart from the medications and treatments that are undertaken, dietary restrictions also need to be in place for effective recovery from the disease. Cold weather conditions need to be avoided as the symptoms tend to be aggravated under cold weather conditions.
Among the food items that need to be avoided, Curd and other sour food substances come first along with fruits like guava and banana. All sorts of junk food items need to be avoided as well.
For detoxification, Vamana and Virechana are most effective when it comes to the treatment of bronchitis.
The specialized panel of doctors at Sreerudra Ayurveda are adept at bronchitis treatment and can be reached for any further guidance on the condition.
