Asthma
Asthma is breathing disorder, characterized by reversible airflow obstruction. In Ayurveda, asthma has been classified into 5 – maha shwas, urdhava shwas, chinna shwas, thamaka shwas and kshudra shwas. Maha, udrdhava and chinna shwas are grave and often treatment is difficult. Kshudra shwas is of no consequence and it demands only rest.
Tamaka shwas is what is called bronchial asthma which is commonly found. It worsens in night.
The causes for bronchial asthma are primarily improper diet such as cold food, spicy food, dry food etc. Next comes life style. Inhaling of dust or smoke, exposure to breeze or cold air, constipation, exercise or induced exertion, bathing in cold water etc are the reasons coming in third place.
In acute cases tightness in chest, pain in temple and abdominal distention are experienced.
Asthma rears its head mostly during winter and spring. Therapeutic emesis in this period is a preventive action. After emesis, therapeutic purgation is advised to discharge the residual toxin from the body. More important, ensure the bowl system is in order.
The house should be kept clean, well-ventilated and warm. Don’t drink cold water. Drink only warm water. The upper respiratory tract should be kept infection-free. For this administer steam inhalation, gargling, blowing the nose etc. Applying gingelly oil in the nostrils helps trap dust and other allergens. Cover head and ear with scarf during night.
Avoid cold food items such as curds, ice cream. Phlegm producing fruits such as banana, guava should not be consumed much. And avoid sleeping under the fan or in air-conditioned room.
During attack take the following steps:
Loosen the dress. Take juice of one clove of garlic mixed in honey or little water. Consume one tea spoon of narayan thaila diluted in ½ cup of hot water. This may be taken frequently till relief is felt.
