Chronic Bronchitis has been classified under the broader heading of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) in modern medicine. It is more common in middle-aged males than in females. It is caused due to the inhalation of toxic substances particularly inhalation of smoke, chewing of tobacco, etc. due to which there is inflammation of the lung tissue. The inflammation eventually results into tissue damage. It is a more serious condition as compared to acute bronchitis because in this there is a constant inflammation or irritation of the lining of the bronchial tubes. It is generally seen in smokers. Therefore, a patient needs medical attention that can cure chronic bronchitis naturally without causing any side effects.
What is Chronic Bronchitis – According to Ayurveda?
In Ayurveda, the pathogenesis of Pranavaha Srotodusti has been described which can be co-related to chronic bronchitis. According to Ayurveda, due to the indulgence in the etiological factors, vitiated Prana and Udana which are situated in Pranavaha srotas enforce Kapha dosha which results into obstruction of channels of Pranvaha.
When Prana Vayu gets vitiated, it gets obstructed by Kapha dosha and moves in opposite direction i.e., in opposite direction and not able to perform normal function, this condition results into Shwasa Roga. This condition has been elaborately mentioned in Ayurvedic texts.
What are the Symptoms of Chronic Bronchitis?
- The predominant symptoms of chronic bronchitis are sputum-producing cough and shortness of breath on exertion.
- Crepitation is mostly present in the lower zone of the lungs.
Safe and Effective Alternative Medicine to Treat Chronic Bronchitis
In Ayurveda, both internal and external treatment measures have been described for the management of chronic bronchitis. You can also say these are very safe and effective Alternative medicines to treat chronic bronchitis.
- For external treatment, administration of medicines through nasal route in different forms such as dhumapana (herbal smoking), nasya (administration through nasal route) etc. are well described for the management of chronic bronchitis.
- For internal treatment, herbs, herbal formulations, rasayanas have been well described which help in enhancing vitality and immunity, maintenance of healthy tissues, replenishment of daily wear and tear, regeneration of tissues, etc.
Also Read:- Allergic Bronchitis – Causes, Symptoms & Ayurvedic Treatment
Herbs that are Useful in the Treatment of Chronic Bronchitis
The natural treatment of chronic bronchitis includes the use of herbs having sukshma, tikshna gunas, Vata-Kaphaghana property are prescribed in Ayurveda for the treatment of chronic bronchitis as these help in balancing Kapha dosha along with cause Vatanulomana. These also act on Pitta sthana thus improving the function of Agni as well. Thus, these herbs help in digestion, assimilation and metabolism as well further improving the immunity due to their Rasayana effect thus preventing the recurrence of the symptoms.
- Kantakari (Solanum xanthocarpum)
- Haritaki (Terminalia chebula)
- Vasa (Adhatoda vasica)
- Haridra (Curcuma longa)
- Pippali (Piper longum)
- Shunthi (Zingiber officinale)
- Bharangi (Clerodendrum serratum)
- Guduchi (Tinospora cordifolia)
- Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera)
Ayurvedic Formulations that are Useful in the Treatment of Chronic Bronchitis
- Vasavleh
- Bharangyadi Kashaya
- Sitopladi Churna Vati
- Elakanadi Kashaya
- Haridrakhanda Choorna
- Agastya Haritaki
- Kankasavava
Diet and Lifestyle Guidance
- Use a face mask.
- Avoid exposure to cold air.
- Avoid irritants and smoking.
- Drink warm water throughout the day to thin the mucus.
- Avoid caffeine and alcohol.
- Wash hands frequently.
- Include spices such as ginger, garlic, turmeric, fennel seeds, cardamom in the diet.
- Intake of cold and refrigerated items should be avoided.
- Take good rest.
- Intake of seasonal and fresh fruits is recommended.
Yoga and Pranayam
Pranayama such as Nadi Shodhan, Anulom-Vilom are recommended and various yoga exercises such as Ardha Matsyendrasana, Uttanasana, Sukhasana, Shavasana are highly beneficial.
Conclusion
Thus, alternative treatment for chronic bronchitis through Ayurveda primarily focuses on boosting immunity, cleanses the toxins, balances the aggravated doshas therefore respiratory channels get cleansed and strengthened with ayurvedic herbs, diet, and lifestyle modification.
If you are suffering from acute or chronic bronchitis then it is recommended that please consult with Dr. Sahil Gupta. Book your Appointment now.
