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:
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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
Contents
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:
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Acute Bronchitis: Usually caused by infections (viral or bacterial) and typically resolves in a few weeks.
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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:
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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.
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Vata dosha (responsible for movement) when aggravated leads to dryness and causes difficulty in the flow of air in the respiratory system.
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Pitta dosha (responsible for heat and inflammation) can contribute to the inflammatory response that exacerbates the condition.
2. Accumulation of Ama (Toxins):
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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.
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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:
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Exposure to air pollutants, cigarette smoke, dust, and chemicals is a significant risk factor for chronic bronchitis.
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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:
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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)
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Cough with mucus production (Kaphaja) or dry cough (Vataj)
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Chest tightness and pain
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Shortness of breath or wheezing
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Fatigue and weakness
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Fever (mainly in acute bronchitis due to infection)
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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:
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Tulsi (Holy Basil):
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Properties: Anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and expectorant.
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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.
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Ginger (Zingiber officinale):
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Properties: Anti-inflammatory, expectorant, and antimicrobial.
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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.
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How to Use: Drink ginger tea or chew small pieces of fresh ginger with honey for soothing the throat and clearing the chest.
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Licorice (Yashtimadhu):
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Properties: Demulcent (soothing), anti-inflammatory, and expectorant.
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How it Helps: Licorice helps to soothe the irritated bronchi, reduces coughing, and balances Kapha. It also helps improve respiratory health.
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How to Use: Drink licorice root tea or consume licorice powder in small quantities.
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Pippali (Long Pepper):
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Properties: Expectorant, anti-inflammatory, and promotes respiratory health.
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How it Helps: Pippali is known to break down mucus and improve lung function, thus helping with bronchial congestion and improving overall breathing.
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How to Use: It can be taken with honey or as a powder mixed with warm water.
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Brahmi (Bacopa monnieri):
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Properties: Anti-inflammatory, rejuvenating, and calming.
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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.
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Guggulu:
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Properties: Anti-inflammatory and balancing to Vata and Kapha.
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How it Helps: Guggulu helps clear the lungs and detoxify the respiratory system, supporting the healing process for both acute and chronic bronchitis.
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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:
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Virechana (Purgation): Helps to remove excess Kapha and Ama (toxins) from the system, which is a common cause of respiratory congestion.
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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.
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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:
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Avoid: Cold, heavy, oily, and processed foods. Dairy products, especially milk, cheese, and ice creams, should be avoided as they increase mucus production.
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Increase:
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Warm, easily digestible foods: Opt for soups, steamed vegetables, and light grains like rice or quinoa.
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Anti-inflammatory foods: Include turmeric, ginger, garlic, and mustard seeds in your cooking.
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Lemon and honey: Lemon helps detoxify the body, and honey has soothing and antimicrobial properties that can ease a sore throat and cough.
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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
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Rest: Adequate rest is essential to allow the body to heal and recover, especially during the acute phase of bronchitis.
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Warm Compress: Use a warm compress or steam inhalation to help loosen mucus and ease chest congestion.
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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.
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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.