AYUR Clinic Melbourne 

Bronchial Asthma

In Ayurveda, Bronchial Asthma is known as Thamaka Shvasa. It is a chronic inflammatory disease affecting the airways. It is characterized by sneezing, difficulty in breathing and shortness of breath and wheezing. According to Ayurveda, the aggravation of kapha dosha blocks the flow of air creating spasms in the bronchial area causing the condition.

Asthma attacks may come without warnings as the patient may be sensitive to certain substances like dust and pollutants or even certain foods.

Causes of Bronchial Asthma

According to Ayurveda, Accumulation of aggravated kapha in the airways lead to obstructions in the passage interruptions in airflow causing Bronchial Asthma. It also occurs largely due to environmental or genetic factors but there are no exact causes to the condition. There are certain factors trigger an asthma reaction they are:

- Exposure to substances like dust, pollen, animal fur, and even certain bacteria

- Cold, flu and pneumonia

- Pollutants such as smoke and chemicals

- Anxiety and Stress

- Extreme physical activity and exercise can induce asthma.

- Certain Medications can trigger attacks

- Perfumes and incenses

- Extreme Weather conditions and changes in temperature.

- Certain Food additives can also trigger asthma

Symptoms of Bronchial Asthma

The symptoms of asthma can vary for each individuals depending on certain factors. The common symptoms of asthma are:

- Breathlessness or shortness breath

- Pain or tightness in chest.

- Trouble sleeping due to breathlessness

- Coughing

- Wheezing

- Whistling sound in the chest while breathing

- Cold and flu

Herbs for bronchial asthma

A number of herbs have been touted to give relief and prevent asthma they are:

- Ginger – it helps in decreasing inflammation and decreasing and managing asthma symptoms

- Turmeric – it helps prevent asthma attacks and keep allergies at bay

- Lemon grass – it contains anti-inflammatory, antifungal, and antibacterial properties and is rich in vitamin c that boosts immunity and fights inflammation

- Garlic – it has anti-inflammatory properties that help clear congestions in the chest

- Oregano – it contains flavonoids and anti-inflammatory properties that act as lung cleansing elements

- Licorice – it has anti-inflammatory properties that help in restoring normal breathing

Diet and lifestyle for asthma

- Pulses like rice, wheat, barley, beans should be consumed regularly.

- Avoid exposure to indoor and outdoor pollution, cigarette smoke, and allergens

- Add Honey to your drinks and teas

- nuts and dry fruits can be taken in moderate amount

- Eat foods rich in antioxidants

- The heavy foods like milk, cheese, curd, buttermilk and banana should be avoided.

- Oily, greasy and fried foods should be avoided.

- Try to avoid the cold and refrigerated foods and drinks.

- Avoid excessive or physical exercises

- Yoga and meditation can be helpful

- Cover your mouth and nose when stepping out in cold weather
Avoid processed foods, additives, white sugar and artificial sweeteners