Causes & Treatments Of Bronchitis According To Ayurveda

Bronchitis is a well-defined disorder of the respiratory tract in contemporary medical science. In India, it is more common in adult male population than in females due to smoking.

In bronchitis, there is a chronic inflammation of the bronchial mucosa, leading to chronic bronchitis. It is characterized by chronic cough with expectoration for a continuous period of three months in a year. This condition may be advanced into COPD only when chronic airflow obstruction occurs.

What are the causes of Bronchitis?

According to Ayurveda, it begins with the impairment of the digestive fire.

The common causes of Bronchitis are:

• Smoking
• Exposure to chemicals and pollutants
• Mental and physical stress
• Low resistance and immunity
• Poor nutrition
• Accumulation of toxins
• Suppression of natural urges

What are the symptoms of Bronchitis?

• Kasa (Cough)
• Kapha Nishteevana (Sputum)
• Shwasa Kriccharata (Dyspnoea)

Bronchitis according to Ayurveda:

In Ayurveda, Kasa, Shwasa and Hikka are the three major diseases explained under Pranavaha Sroto-Vikara (Respiratory disorders). It is known as Kasa in Ayurveda.

It is caused due to the morbid Vata and Kapha doshas in the Pranavaha Srotas due to its pathological process of Doshadushti, Avarana of Prana Vayu or Vimargamana of Prana Vayu.

In Ayurvedic classics, Master Charak has clearly specified that that avarana of Kapha to gati (movement) of Prana Vata ultimately leads to the problem of Kaphaj Kasa. In bronchitis, there is also the production of mucus due to inflammation of mucosa of the respiratory tract.

Agni dushti (impairment of digestive fire) may also be a contributing factor in the Samprapti (pathogenesis) of the disease. The involvement of Rasa Dhatu plays a major role.

What is the treatment of Bronchitis?

In modern medicine, antibiotics, anti-histamines, expectorants, bronchodilators etc. are commonly prescribed for the management of bronchitis. Although, these medications are effective in reducing the severity of the disease and suppressing the symptoms but none of these modalities of treatment provide a permanent solution. Therefore, these have limitations owing to their unwanted effects.

What is the Ayurvedic treatment of Bronchitis?

The treatment principle of Bronchitis in Ayurveda is Kasahara (anti-tussive), Kaphahara (mucolytic), Shwashara (anti-asthmatics), Vata-Shamaka (pacification of Vata dosha), Agnideepana (stimulation of the digestive fire) and Rasayana (rejuvenation).

The herbs and herbal remedies which have Snigdha, Anabhishyandi and Srotoshodhana properties are prescribed.

Some Home Remedies for Bronchitis are:

10. Mustard and Camphor: Take 2 tablespoons of mustard oil and warm it well. Dissolve about 2 grams of camphor in it. Apply this oil gently on the chest region, neck as well as back. Do not massage. After 10-15 minutes, give a dry fomentation. This is an effective and simple remedy for getting relief in bronchitis.
11. Turmeric and Milk: Add 1 teaspoon of turmeric powder to a glass of warm milk and boil it for a few minutes. Drink this golden milk twice a day.
12. Tomato Soup: Tomato Soup is a rich source of Vitamin C which helps in reducing the excessive formation of mucus. Drink homemade tomato soup regularly to get rid of bronchitis cough.
13. Sesame Seeds: Mix ½ teaspoon of sesame seed powder and 2 tablespoons of water and take it twice a day. The medicinal properties of Sesame seeds help in the treatment of bronchitis and help in relieving chest congestion associated with it.
14. Salt Water: Add 1 teaspoon of salt to a glass of warm water and use it to gargle several times a day. This will soothe the inflammation in the throat. It will also reduce the mucus that may be irritating to the throat. Don’t use too much salt as it may cause burning sensation in the throat. Be sure to spit out water after gargling.
15. Ginger and Black Pepper: Add 1 teaspoon each of ginger powder and black pepper to a cup of boiling water. Boil it for a few minutes and when it becomes lukewarm, add some honey and drink this mixture twice a day.
16. Steam Inhalation: Inhaling steam will help to loosen the mucus in the lungs. You can add few drops of eucalyptus oil to the hot water and take steam for 10-15 minutes. Eucalyptus oil helps in softening the mucus that obstructs the respiratory tract and it has anti-bacterial properties as well.
17. Isabgol Seeds: Isabgol seeds is also known as Psyllium husk. In Ayurveda, it is also mentioned that constipation triggers the bronchial attacks. To prevent these attacks, make sure that you have regular bowel movements. Take a teaspoon of spogel seeds with plain water to prevent constipation.
18. Epsom Salt: Epsom Salt bath helps in relieving bronchitis symptoms especially when a person is suffering from acute bronchitis. You can take Epsom salt bath by adding a few tablespoons of Epsom Salt in the bathing water.
19. Pippali (Piper longum): Take 25 grams long pepper powder, 25 grams jaggery, 25 grams cow ghee and ½ cup water. Take jaggery in a wide mouthed vessel. Add ½ cup water to it. Heat it to dissolve it. Now add cow ghee and long pepper fruit fine powder to the vessel. Continue heating until all the water content evaporates. When water is evaporated, stop heating and filter when it is hot. Take ½ -1 teaspoon of this ghee once or twice a day followed by a cup of warm water for a period of 1-2 months.

Some Ayurvedic herbs useful in the treatment of Bronchitis are:

• Tulsi (Ocimum sanctum)
• Shunthi (Zingiber officinale)
• Haridra (Curcuma longa)
• Guduchi (Tinospora cordifolia)
• Pippali (Piper longum)

Diet and Lifestyle:

• Use spices such as garlic, turmeric, black pepper, ginger in cooking.
• Pranayama under expert guidance is also beneficial.
• Avoid exposure to cold and humid atmosphere.
• Excessive exposure to smoke, dust, fumes, pollutants and pollens should be avoided.
• Suppression of natural urges should be avoided.
• Intake of heavy and cold food should be strictly eliminated from the diet.
• Sweets, curd, stored food items, junk, processed foods having preservatives should not be consumed.
• Intake of lukewarm water is recommended.

Proper Ayurvedic treatment under expert Ayurvedic physician along with changes in diet and lifestyle help in successful management of bronchitis through Ayurveda.

Bronchitis: Causes & Treatments According to Ayurveda

Bronchitis is an inflammation of the bronchi (the air passages in the lungs) that causes symptoms like coughing, mucus production, wheezing, and shortness of breath. Bronchitis can be classified into two types:

• Acute Bronchitis: Usually caused by infections (viral or bacterial) and typically resolves in a few weeks.

• Chronic Bronchitis: A long-term condition, often due to smoking or long-term exposure to irritants, and may last for several months or years.

In Ayurveda, bronchitis is primarily viewed as a Vata-Pitta imbalance, which leads to inflammation and excess mucus in the lungs and airways.

Causes of Bronchitis According to Ayurveda

Ayurveda identifies several key factors that contribute to bronchitis, including:

1. Vitiation of Kapha, Vata, and Pitta Doshas:

• Kapha dosha (responsible for mucus and lubrication) can become aggravated due to cold, wet, or heavy foods and environmental conditions, leading to an excess of mucus in the lungs.

• Vata dosha (responsible for movement) when aggravated leads to dryness and causes difficulty in the flow of air in the respiratory system.

• Pitta dosha (responsible for heat and inflammation) can contribute to the inflammatory response that exacerbates the condition.

2. Accumulation of Ama (Toxins):

• Ama (toxins) is the result of improper digestion and unhealthy lifestyle choices. When ama accumulates in the body, it can lead to the obstruction of channels, causing respiratory ailments like bronchitis.

• Poor digestion, stress, and improper food choices (spicy, greasy, or cold foods) are considered key contributors to the formation of ama.

3. Environmental and Lifestyle Factors:

• Exposure to air pollutants, cigarette smoke, dust, and chemicals is a significant risk factor for chronic bronchitis.

• Seasonal changes like cold and damp weather, or living in areas with high pollution, can worsen bronchitis by aggravating the Kapha dosha.

4. Weak Immune System:

• A weakened immune system due to poor diet, stress, or excessive physical exertion can increase the susceptibility to respiratory infections, leading to acute bronchitis.

Symptoms of Bronchitis (Ayurvedic View)

• Cough with mucus production (Kaphaja) or dry cough (Vataj)

• Chest tightness and pain

• Shortness of breath or wheezing

• Fatigue and weakness

• Fever (mainly in acute bronchitis due to infection)

• Sore throat, runny nose, or congestion

Ayurvedic Treatments for Bronchitis

Ayurveda focuses on restoring balance to the doshas, particularly by addressing the excessive Kapha and inflammation (Pitta), and helping the body detoxify (Ama).

1. Herbal Remedies

Several herbs are traditionally used in Ayurveda to treat bronchitis by reducing mucus, inflammation, and enhancing lung function:

• Tulsi (Holy Basil):

  • Properties: Anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and expectorant.

  • How it Helps: It helps to clear the airways, reduce mucus production, and improve respiratory function. You can drink Tulsi tea or chew fresh Tulsi leaves for relief.

• Ginger (Zingiber officinale):

  • Properties: Anti-inflammatory, expectorant, and antimicrobial.

  • How it Helps: Ginger is highly effective in reducing inflammation and breaking down mucus in the lungs. It helps with clearing congestion and easing coughing.

  • How to Use: Drink ginger tea or chew small pieces of fresh ginger with honey for soothing the throat and clearing the chest.

• Licorice (Yashtimadhu):

  • Properties: Demulcent (soothing), anti-inflammatory, and expectorant.

  • How it Helps: Licorice helps to soothe the irritated bronchi, reduces coughing, and balances Kapha. It also helps improve respiratory health.

  • How to Use: Drink licorice root tea or consume licorice powder in small quantities.

• Pippali (Long Pepper):

  • Properties: Expectorant, anti-inflammatory, and promotes respiratory health.

  • How it Helps: Pippali is known to break down mucus and improve lung function, thus helping with bronchial congestion and improving overall breathing.

  • How to Use: It can be taken with honey or as a powder mixed with warm water.

• Brahmi (Bacopa monnieri):

  • Properties: Anti-inflammatory, rejuvenating, and calming.

  • How it Helps: Brahmi can calm inflammation in the airways and help reduce stress that may exacerbate the condition. It also supports mental clarity and overall vitality.

• Guggulu:

  • Properties: Anti-inflammatory and balancing to Vata and Kapha.

  • How it Helps: Guggulu helps clear the lungs and detoxify the respiratory system, supporting the healing process for both acute and chronic bronchitis.

2. Panchakarma Treatments

Panchakarma is a group of Ayurvedic treatments designed to detoxify the body and remove Ama (toxins) from the system. Key Panchakarma therapies beneficial for bronchitis include:

• Virechana (Purgation): Helps to remove excess Kapha and Ama (toxins) from the system, which is a common cause of respiratory congestion.

• Basti (Medicated Enema): A key therapy for balancing Vata dosha and relieving any dryness or congestion in the lungs. It also improves detoxification and helps in the overall restoration of balance.

• Nasya (Nasal Therapy): Nasya treatments using medicated oils like Anu Taila can be used to clear the nasal passages, soothe inflammation, and improve airflow.

3. Dietary Recommendations

In Ayurveda, diet plays a crucial role in balancing the doshas and supporting recovery. For bronchitis, it is important to consume foods that reduce Kapha and Pitta aggravation, while promoting digestion and detoxification:

• Avoid: Cold, heavy, oily, and processed foods. Dairy products, especially milk, cheese, and ice creams, should be avoided as they increase mucus production.

• Increase:

  • Warm, easily digestible foods: Opt for soups, steamed vegetables, and light grains like rice or quinoa.

  • Anti-inflammatory foods: Include turmeric, ginger, garlic, and mustard seeds in your cooking.

  • Lemon and honey: Lemon helps detoxify the body, and honey has soothing and antimicrobial properties that can ease a sore throat and cough.

• Herbal Teas: Drink ginger tea, peppermint tea, or Tulsi tea throughout the day. These herbs help clear the airways, reduce mucus, and ease inflammation.

4. Lifestyle Recommendations

• Rest: Adequate rest is essential to allow the body to heal and recover, especially during the acute phase of bronchitis.

• Warm Compress: Use a warm compress or steam inhalation to help loosen mucus and ease chest congestion.

• Breathing Exercises: Practice pranayama (breathing exercises) like Anulom-Vilom (alternate nostril breathing) and Kapalbhati to enhance lung capacity, reduce stress, and promote better oxygenation of the lungs.

• Hydration: Drink plenty of warm liquids like herbal teas, soups, and warm water to stay hydrated and help loosen mucus.

Conclusion

In Ayurveda, bronchitis is seen as an imbalance in the doshas, particularly Kapha, that causes excessive mucus, inflammation, and respiratory discomfort. By using herbal remedies, dietary adjustments, Panchakarma treatments, and lifestyle modifications, Ayurveda offers a comprehensive and natural approach to treating bronchitis, focusing on detoxifying the body and promoting lung health.

Always consult with a qualified Ayurvedic practitioner to determine the best course of treatment for your individual needs, especially if you have a pre-existing condition or are experiencing chronic symptoms.

Bronchitis is an inflammation of the bronchial tubes (airways that carry air to and from the lungs), which causes symptoms such as coughing, difficulty breathing, mucus production, and wheezing. In Ayurveda, bronchitis is often linked to an imbalance in the body’s Vata, Pitta, and Kapha doshas. It is generally classified into two types: Acute Bronchitis (short-term) and Chronic Bronchitis (long-term).

Causes of Bronchitis According to Ayurveda:

1. Imbalance in the Doshas:

   • Vata Dosha: When Vata is aggravated, it causes dryness, roughness, and constriction in the airways, leading to symptoms such as coughing and difficulty breathing. The dry cough in bronchitis is often due to Vata’s influence.

   • Pitta Dosha: Pitta governs heat, metabolism, and inflammation. When Pitta is imbalanced, it leads to excessive mucus production, irritation, and inflammation of the respiratory tract, contributing to the symptoms of bronchitis. Inflammatory and burning sensations, along with yellow or green mucus, are often associated with Pitta.

   • Kapha Dosha: Kapha is responsible for lubrication and moisture in the body. When Kapha is aggravated, it leads to an excess of thick, sticky mucus in the bronchial tubes, causing congestion, coughing, and difficulty breathing. In chronic bronchitis, the imbalance of Kapha often plays a dominant role.

2. Accumulation of Toxins (Ama):

   • According to Ayurveda, Ama (toxins) accumulates in the body due to poor digestion (improper Agni), unhealthy eating habits, and a sedentary lifestyle. Ama can block the channels in the respiratory system and lead to symptoms like congestion and coughing.

3. Poor Digestion (Weak Agni):

   • Weak or slow digestion results in the formation of Ama, which accumulates and eventually causes blockages in the respiratory system, leading to bronchial inflammation and infection.

4. Environmental Factors:

   • Exposure to pollutants, dust, smoke, or allergens can irritate the respiratory system, aggravating Kapha and Pitta doshas, and leading to conditions like bronchitis. Climate changes, especially cold or dry air, can worsen symptoms by further aggravating Vata.

5. Infections:

   • Viral or bacterial infections are common triggers for bronchitis. These infections inflame the bronchial tubes, leading to swelling, mucus production, and coughing. The infection can cause Pitta dosha to become imbalanced, leading to inflammation and excess mucus.

6. Emotional Stress:

   • Emotional stress or unresolved negative emotions, such as anger, fear, and sadness, can weaken the immune system and disrupt the balance of the doshas, particularly Vata, leading to respiratory issues like bronchitis.

Ayurvedic Treatments for Bronchitis:

1. Balancing the Doshas:

   • Vata-Pacifying Treatments: To address aggravated Vata, warm, moist, and grounding foods and herbs should be used. Avoid cold, dry, and rough foods.

   • Pitta-Pacifying Treatments: To pacify excess heat and inflammation, cooling, anti-inflammatory foods, and herbs should be favored, like coconut water, ghee, and mint.

   • Kapha-Pacifying Treatments: To address excess mucus and congestion, light, warm, and slightly spicy foods that reduce dampness should be included, like soups with ginger and garlic.

2. Herbal Remedies:

   • Tulsi (Holy Basil): Tulsi is an excellent herb for respiratory conditions. It has anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and expectorant properties that help reduce mucus, inflammation, and clear the airways.

   • Ginger (Zingiber officinale): Ginger is a warming herb that improves digestion and helps thin mucus. It also reduces inflammation in the bronchial tubes, making it beneficial for bronchitis. It can be consumed as tea or added to food.

   • Licorice (Glycyrrhiza glabra): Licorice root is soothing for the throat and respiratory system, helping to reduce coughing and inflammation. It also acts as an expectorant, facilitating the expulsion of mucus.

   • Honey: Honey is widely used in Ayurveda for its soothing and healing properties. It helps to calm the cough, reduce throat irritation, and has mild antimicrobial effects.

   • Turmeric (Curcuma longa): Turmeric is known for its anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties. It helps in reducing bronchial inflammation and fighting respiratory infections.

   • Black Pepper (Piper nigrum): Black pepper promotes respiratory function by helping to clear mucus and improve circulation to the lungs.

3. Ayurvedic Detoxification (Panchakarma):

   • Abhyanga (Oil Massage): A full-body oil massage with warm herbal oils, particularly sesame oil, helps in calming the Vata dosha and relieving congestion in the respiratory tract.

   • Swedana (Steam Therapy): Steam therapy using herbs like eucalyptus, turmeric, and ginger can open up the airways, loosen mucus, and relieve congestion.

   • Virechana (Purgation Therapy): This therapy helps eliminate toxins (Ama) from the digestive system, reducing the underlying causes of bronchitis and improving overall respiratory health.

   • Basti (Medicated Enemas): Basti can be used to eliminate toxins from the body and balance the doshas. It helps detoxify the body and restore digestive and respiratory health.

4. Topical Treatments:

   • Steam Inhalation: Inhaling steam with added essential oils such as eucalyptus, peppermint, or thyme helps clear the respiratory passages, reduce congestion, and soothe the inflammation in the bronchial tubes.

   • Warm Compresses: Applying warm compresses to the chest can help relieve congestion and open up the airways, improving breathing.

   • Turmeric and Honey Paste: A paste made from turmeric and honey can be applied to the chest to help reduce inflammation and support healing.

5. Dietary Recommendations:

   • Warm, Moist Foods: Include soups, stews, and herbal teas to keep the body warm and hydrated. Avoid cold, dry, and heavy foods that can aggravate the doshas.

   • Spices: Use spices like ginger, garlic, turmeric, black pepper, and cinnamon, which have anti-inflammatory and expectorant properties. They help to clear mucus and reduce congestion.

   • Avoid Dairy: Dairy products, particularly when consumed in excess, can increase Kapha and contribute to the production of excess mucus, making it harder to expel.

   • Hydration: Drinking plenty of warm water, herbal teas, and broths can help thin the mucus, making it easier to clear from the lungs and airways.

6. Breathing Exercises (Pranayama):

   • Pranayama (breathing exercises) like Anulom Vilom (alternate nostril breathing) and Bhastrika (bellows breath) can help open the airways, improve lung capacity, and reduce symptoms of bronchitis by enhancing oxygen flow and reducing inflammation in the respiratory system.

7. Lifestyle Modifications:

   • Adequate Rest: Ensure that you get proper rest to allow the body to heal and recover.

   • Stress Management: Practice relaxation techniques like meditation or yoga to reduce emotional stress and enhance overall well-being.

   • Avoiding Exposure to Irritants: Limit exposure to smoke, dust, allergens, and pollutants, which can aggravate the respiratory system.

Conclusion:

In Ayurveda, bronchitis is seen as a disorder of the respiratory system caused by an imbalance in the doshas, particularly Pitta and Kapha, and is often accompanied by Ama (toxins). The treatment for bronchitis involves a holistic approach that includes dietary adjustments, herbal remedies, detoxification therapies, and lifestyle changes. By addressing the root cause of the condition and balancing the doshas, Ayurveda offers effective management and relief from bronchitis. However, it is essential to consult an Ayurvedic practitioner for personalized treatment.