Treating Asthma the holistic way: 4 treatments Ayurveda prescribes
Bronchial asthma, known in Ayurveda as Tamaka Swasa, is a chronic respiratory condition that affects the lungs and airways. It causes difficulty in breathing, wheezing, chest tightness, coughing, and shortness of breath, especially during the night or early morning.
With the rise in pollution, poor lifestyle choices, and stress, the number of asthma cases has been steadily increasing.
And as Ayurveda helps people treat the root cause of the problem or disease, more and more people are turning to Ayurveda to treat and cure the long-term effects and the immediate symptoms of Bronchial asthma.
Asthma in Ayurveda
In Ayurveda, asthma is classified under Swasa Roga, or a group of diseases related to the respiratory system.
It is said to occur because of an imbalance in the Vata and Kapha doshas, and arises from the reverse flow of Vata in the respiratory channels, which leads to obstruction due to the accumulation of mucus, resulting in breathlessness and wheezing.
Causes and symptoms of Asthma today
The causes of Asthma today are both internal and external, and start with our plates. Eating dry, cold, heavy, or incompatible foods, being exposed to dust, smoke, wind, or cold weather for prolonged periods, excessive physical exercise or exhaustion, especially overdoing certain things, stress, anxiety, or emotional distress can also lead to asthma.
by Taboola
by Taboola
Sponsored Links
Sponsored Links
Promoted Links
Promoted Links
You May Like
Giao dịch vàng CFDs với sàn môi giới tin cậy
IC Markets
Tìm hiểu thêm
Undo
And the most common symptoms people will see is wheezing or a whistling sound while breathing, prolonged dry cough and recurrent bouts of breathlessness, throat choking, dry mouth, excessive sweating, and chest tightness, especially when you try to sleep.
Chikitsa for Asthma
One of the most common Ayurveda treatments for Asthma is Fomentation, or sweat-inducing therapies. Some Ayurvedic practitioners advise people to take sessions of oil massage using sesame oil mixed with rock salt, followed by steam.
This is believed to help in breaking down the sticky mucus from the airways, and allows people to breathe freely.
Another treatment mentioned in the book 'Holistic Health: Law and Facts' by Swami Ramdev and Acharya Balkrishna, involves preparing a decoction of Nidigdhika, Bilva fruit pulp, Karkatshringi, Duralabha, Guduci, Kulattha, and more, and this decoction is made with pepper, dry ginger, and rock salt.
The book also mentions that patients can mix equal parts of powdered jaggery and dry ginger powder, and consume this to get relief from respiratory problems.
Another treatment for Asthma, according to the book and findings, is
Padmapatradi yoga
, a herbal formulation, that helps in increased expiratory flow, and helps patients have relief from breathlessness and congestion.
Why choose
Ayurveda for Asthma
?
One of the many reasons why people are moving to Ayurveda for certain diseases, is that it does not manage a single problem, but rather looks at the root causes and works to eliminate them.
It is made from herbs and is safe for long-term use, unlike certain steroids or inhalers, Ayurvedic medicines do not suppress the immune system and are safe to use under guidance of experts, and also that the treatment in Ayurveda is unique to every person.
One step to a healthier you—join Times Health+ Yoga and feel the change
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Time of India
44 minutes ago
- Time of India
Scientists have found a breakthrough in cancer treatment, and it is deep within the ocean
A team of scientists led by the University of Mississippi has discovered a rare sugar in sea cucumbers that may help stop cancer from spreading, without the dangerous side effects of traditional treatments. What does the discovery say? The study published in the journal Glycobiology reveals that a compound called fucosylated chondroitin sulfate, found in the sea cucumber Holothuria floridana, blocks Sulf-2, an enzyme that cancer cells use to grow and metastasize. The compound could become a critical tool in future cancer therapies. Play Video Pause Skip Backward Skip Forward Unmute Current Time 0:00 / Duration 0:00 Loaded : 0% 0:00 Stream Type LIVE Seek to live, currently behind live LIVE Remaining Time - 0:00 1x Playback Rate Chapters Chapters Descriptions descriptions off , selected Captions captions settings , opens captions settings dialog captions off , selected Audio Track default , selected Picture-in-Picture Fullscreen This is a modal window. Beginning of dialog window. Escape will cancel and close the window. Text Color White Black Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Opacity Opaque Semi-Transparent Text Background Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Opacity Opaque Semi-Transparent Transparent Caption Area Background Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Opacity Transparent Semi-Transparent Opaque Font Size 50% 75% 100% 125% 150% 175% 200% 300% 400% Text Edge Style None Raised Depressed Uniform Drop shadow Font Family Proportional Sans-Serif Monospace Sans-Serif Proportional Serif Monospace Serif Casual Script Small Caps Reset restore all settings to the default values Done Close Modal Dialog End of dialog window. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Play War Thunder now for free War Thunder Play Now Undo 'Marine life produces compounds with unique structures that are often rare or not found in terrestrial vertebrates,' said Marwa Farrag, a fourth-year doctoral student and lead author of the study. 'The sugar compounds in sea cucumbers are unique. They aren't commonly seen in other organisms. That's why they're worth studying.' Sulf-2 plays a key role in altering glycans, sugar molecules that coat the surface of all human cells and regulate communication and immune responses. When this enzyme modifies glycans, it helps cancer cells break away and spread. Blocking Sulf-2 may stop tumors from invading healthy tissues. Live Events 'This sugar essentially stops the pruning of the cellular 'forest,'' said Dr. Vitor Pomin, associate professor of pharmacognosy. 'If we can inhibit that enzyme, we are fighting against the spread of cancer.' The research team, which also included scientists from Georgetown University, used lab testing and computer modeling to confirm the sugar's effect. Both methods produced consistent results. Safe for human use Unlike some Sulf-2 inhibitors already known, this sea cucumber sugar does not affect blood clotting, making it safer for use in humans. 'If a molecule interferes with blood coagulation, you risk life-threatening bleeding,' said Dr. Joshua Sharp, associate professor of pharmacology. 'This one doesn't.' Lack of abundance The team now faces a new challenge: sea cucumbers aren't abundant enough to harvest for mass production. 'One of the problems in developing this as a drug would be the low yield,' said Dr. Pomin. 'So, we have to develop a chemical route.' The scientists are currently working to synthesize the compound in the lab so it can be tested in animal models. If successful, this breakthrough could pave the way for cleaner, safer, and more sustainable cancer treatments, originating not from synthetic chemicals or land animals, but from the ocean floor.
Time of India
an hour ago
- Time of India
Still using refined oil? Try these 5 healthier alternatives doctors recommend
When it comes to Indian cooking, oil is an indispensable ingredient. However, choosing the right oil is crucial especially for heart health. According to renowned cardiologist and functional medicine expert Dr. Alok Chopra, not all oils are created equal, and blindly following global cooking oil trends may not be the best choice for Indian kitchens. In an Instagram video posted on June 15, Dr. Chopra named five science-supported oils that are the most appropriate for Indian cooking. These oils are not fad-based but based on their nutritional value and compatibility with traditional Indian cuisine. Why is choosing the right cooking oil important Using the right cooking oil goes beyond just taste; it's a vital step toward better heart health. Oils rich in unsaturated fats can support cardiovascular wellness, but cutting out all fats isn't realistic. The key lies in selecting oils that both suit the nutritional needs of your body and enhance the unique flavors of Indian cuisine. Many common Western oils aren't ideal for Indian cooking methods, which often involve high-heat searing and complex spice blends. That's why choosing oils that can handle the heat—while also offering health benefits—is essential for both flavor and long-term wellness. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Giao dịch CFD với công nghệ và tốc độ tốt hơn IC Markets Đăng ký Undo Source: Instagram 5 healthiest oils for Indian cooking besides refined oil The use of the appropriate oil is a matter of balance, tradition, and science. Dr. Alok Chopra's top picks include: Ghee Coconut oil Mustard oil Sesame oil Groundnut oil Each of these oils is unique in its health benefit and also complements the richness and diversity of Indian food. If you're regularly cooking Indian food, these five oils are good to have in your pantry—not for flavor alone, but for long-term health. Know more these cooking oil: India's healthiest cooking oils recommended Ghee Dr. Chopra is a big supporter of ghee, highlighting its immune-stimulating and digestive capabilities. Packed with fat-soluble vitamins A, D, E, and K, ghee promotes enhanced gut health and nutrient uptake. "Ghee is not merely a fat used for cooking—it's an Indian traditional medicinal superfood," maintains Dr. Chopra. In spite of its relatively high saturated fat status, ghee has been used in Ayurveda for centuries and is one of the healthiest fats to use in moderation. Coconut Oil Coconut oil, which Dr. Chopra also loves, is chock-full of medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs). These molecules of fat are quickly absorbed and turned into energy, so coconut oil is a great choice for brain and gut support. As per the National Institutes of Health (NIH), MCTs not only provide instant energy but also help regulate several metabolic and neurological diseases. Mustard Oil Mustard oil is popular in Indian homes and gets a nod from Dr. Chopra due to its anti-inflammatory and heart-protective effects. It has omega-5 fatty acids, which help improve circulation and bring down inflammation. "Mustard oil is one of the few oils that is great with Indian spices and yet is supportive of heart health," says Dr. Chopra. Sesame Oil With its high content of antioxidants and healthy fats, sesame oil is a good backup choice. Dr. Chopra points out its advantages for joint mobility and skin health, and it makes a valuable all-around option that feeds the body internally. Sesame oil is commonly employed in South Indian and Ayurvedic cuisine and also contains natural anti-inflammatory and anti-aging properties. Groundnut Oil Last but not least, groundnut oil (peanut oil) finds a place on Dr. Chopra's list due to its good fat profile and plant sterol, which reduce cholesterol levels. Moderation is, however, the word. "Groundnut oil is good for the heart, but as with all oils, it must be consumed wisely," warns Dr. Chopra. Its lack of flavour and high smoke point make it perfect for deep frying and day-to-day Indian cuisine. A word of caution on cooking oils! In an earlier report, Dr. Chopra cautioned that the ingestion of the inappropriate type of cooking oil, particularly refined oils containing high levels of trans fats, will enhance the risk of heart disease, cancer, and obesity. Selecting oils by trends without regard for their compatibility with Indian cooking practices can be more harmful than beneficial. Also Read | Sea salt, pink salt, Celtic salt: Experts say these 'fancy' salts may secretly harm your heart health One step to a healthier you—join Times Health+ Yoga and feel the change
Indian Express
2 hours ago
- Indian Express
Is this morning gut health test really effective? Let's find out if you pass it
While doomscrolling online, we came across digital creator Akanksha Pandey's morning gut health test. In it, she elaborated on four test case scenarios and suggested solutions to potential problems. Deepalakshmi, a registered dietitian at The Cleft & Craniofacial Centre, Sree Balaji Medical College & Hospital, Chennai, helped us break down the test and learn more about its effectiveness. Pandey suggested that a white coating on the tongue signals 'toxin overload,' rooted in traditional medicine systems like Ayurveda, where such symptoms are associated with accumulating ama or undigested residue. From a clinical perspective, however, Deepalakshmi explained that a coated tongue is more often linked to poor oral hygiene, dehydration, or fungal overgrowth (such as oral thrush). 'While it may indicate microbial imbalance or dietary issues, calling it 'toxin overload' lacks medical specificity,' she said. Ensuring adequate hydration, tongue cleaning, and balanced nutrition typically helps address this issue. Pandey's solutions to the problem was three-fold: Oil pulling, light dinners, and a gut cleanse. Oil pulling is often recommended for oral health, and some traditional practices suggest it can support digestion. 'While oil pulling with coconut or sesame oil may reduce oral bacterial load and improve gum health, there is limited scientific evidence connecting it directly with improved digestion,' said Deepalakshmi, adding that it may serve as a supportive self-care habit, but underlying digestive discomfort is more effectively addressed through dietary and lifestyle changes such as increasing fibre intake, managing stress, and avoiding late-night heavy meals. 'Advising a light dinner for better gut health is evidence-informed and aligns with traditional and modern nutritional advice. Late-night heavy meals can interfere with digestion and sleep, while early, lighter dinners may improve gastric emptying and reduce bloating,' said the dietitian. However, she believes Pandey's recommendation to get a gut cleanse done is vague. 'Medically, the gut does not need cleansing unless advised for specific conditions or procedures. A healthy gut is maintained through hydration, fibre-rich foods, prebiotics, and regular physical activity—not extreme cleanses,' she explained. According to Deepalakshmi, the claim that not having the urge to poop in the morning indicates a 'dry gut' is an oversimplification. 'While constipation can be a sign of poor hydration or inadequate fat and fibre intake, the term 'dry gut' is not used in medical literature,' she said. That said, healthy fats like ghee, water-rich vegetables such as gourds, and good fluid intake can support regular bowel movements and improve stool consistency. These practices are generally safe and may help manage mild constipation. Deepalakshmi said that a 'gut reset' is not a clinically defined intervention, but improvements in gut health can be achieved through a balanced diet, probiotics, and reducing processed foods. 'The assertion that one should never have bad breath in the morning is misleading. Mild halitosis upon waking is common due to decreased saliva production overnight, which allows bacteria to accumulate,' she said, adding that persistent or very foul-smelling breath may reflect poor oral hygiene, gum disease, or in some cases, gut-related issues such as reflux or constipation. Finally, for those experiencing morning acidity or gas, Pandey said that ingredients like licorice (mulethi), amla, and gulkand are traditional remedies that may offer relief. 'Licorice has demulcent properties and may help soothe an irritated gut lining. Amla is rich in antioxidants and vitamin C, supporting digestion and gastric health. Gulkand, made from rose petals, is used in Ayurveda for its cooling and mild laxative properties,' explained the dietitian, stating that while these can be helpful as part of a broader dietary approach, persistent symptoms should always be medically evaluated.
