What is Acid Reflux, and why does it Occur?

Acid reflux occurs when the digestive juices of the stomach enter the oesophagus [the food pipe connecting the mouth and stomach]. This causes heartburn, burping, regurgitation, breathlessness and mild to severe pain below the chest–called Epigastric Pain.    Ayurvedic Approach—

• People with Pitta Imbalance are susceptible to occasional acid indigestion and heartburn. Stress, anger, extra-hot spicy foods, and environmental factors such as heat can worsen the Pitta. A few simple changes in the lifestyle and diet can help bring Pitta to the right balance for more effective digestion and greater calm and contentment. “Pitta’ is the heat energy mainly located in the stomach. Excess intake of heat-producing foods can increase acid production. Pitta-aggravating foods such as tomatoes, citrus fruits, orange juice, salsa, yoghurt (except lassi), onions, garlic, chilli peppers, salty fried foods, and alcohol can upset the digestion. These foods should be avoided entirely until the acid level is brought to a complete balance. 

 

• Do not skip meals. Eating breakfast is highly crucial. Omitting breakfast hurts the Sub dosha of Pitta called Sadhaka Pitta, which governs the emotional heart. It is responsible for contentment and bliss. At lunch, with Agni (the digestive fire) increasing along with stomach acid, an empty stomach is not ideal from the ayurvedic viewpoint. It can cause anger, impatience and be over-hungry. 

 

• Avoid high-stress situations—practice stress-management techniques. Enjoy the natural beauty; it helps to balance Sadhaka Pitta. If you feel uneasy during the day, take a few sips of cold milk on an empty stomach.
• Pomegranate juice also helps balance the acid in the stomach. It tastes sour, but it is astringent and bitter, which can help balance ‘Pitta’.
• Aloe Vera Gel is beneficial to balance pitta. Avoid the store-bought juice, as citric acid is used as a preservative and it is too acidic if you suffer from acid indigestion.
• Roasted Fennel Seeds can be eaten to help settle the stomach and balance digestion. Eat ¼ teaspoon of baked fennel seeds three times a day between meals.
• Rosewater or mint lassi is good with a meal. Split moong, green leafy vegetables, grains, watermelon, honeydew melon, lettuce, mangoes, fenugreek seeds, coriander, cardamom and mint should be included regularly in your diet.

  Madras Institute of Ayurveda, Chennai is the centre of Ayurvedic medicine and treatment in Chennai, where age-old tradition meets modern techniques that range from Panchakarma treatment to Rejuvenation. They provide a whole range of quality ayurvedic treatments, assisted by an accomplished team experienced therapist. Care begins with an accurate diagnosis, based on which the doctors create a specific treatment plan to treat the disease and not just the symptoms.  Log on to www.miayurveda.org to learn more about our treatment plan.

What do we mean by Respiratory Disorders?

Respiratory Disorders are disorders of the lungs. It is an unfortunate state of affairs, as the air we breathe is wholly polluted with dust and harmful gases making our body more prone to sickness.

Causes for Respiratory Disorders—

Obesity –Obesity is prevalent a majority of our population, causing respiratory problems in many ways. Obesity weakens our immunity that leads to many other diseases.

Dietary habits – Consumption of fast food & improper eating habits ultimately leads to indigestion & constipation issues which in turn lowers the immunity of the body making a person fall prey to the infections present in the environment.

Air pollution – Air pollution makes our body’s -immunity very poor. It increases the risk of infections & allergies that cause breathing problems and is one of the essential reasons behind most of the respiratory disorders.

Smoking – Smoking has been estimated to cause about 2/3 of all lung cancers and half of the chronic respiratory diseases worldwide.

Respiratory infections are best treated with Ancient Ayurveda—

Ayurvedic herbs help to overcome respiratory disorders. Ayurveda has a magical power that can eliminate and ultimately destroy the root cause of diseases. It balances the internal functions & hormonal disturbances to avoid any further issues in the future.

Special Ayurvedic herbs & Panchakarma therapies are very beneficial in rejuvenating the body. Various herbs are provided to the patients in the form of capsules, powders & syrups to boost the immunity and make them more defensive against infections and viral attacks.

The prominent herbs for supporting a healthy bronchial response are—
The peppercorns (black pepper and pippali) are long-term lung tissue builders and detoxifiers. It does an excellent job in keeping the airways open over time.
Liquorice is another herb that supports the proper functioning of the lungs and adrenals. It supports a healthy immune response and elimination of natural toxins from the liver.
Calming herbs such as turmeric may help in stressful situations when the bronchial system is overworked. Turmeric can calm down the bronchial system, especially when mixed with coriander and cumin.
Bitter herbs such as turmeric and dandelion support the reduction of a long-term accumulation of mucus.
Pungent herbs as black pepper, garlic, cinnamon, cloves, and ginger, help reduce the consistency of the mucus, making it easier to breathe.
A combination of the fruits such as Amalaki, Haritaki and Bibhitaki is the classic decoction.
Kaphapitta Shamaka [reduces vitiated Kapha and Pitta], is one of the coldest and most bitter herbs in Ayurveda.
Vasaka Leaf, a famous Ayurvedic herb, is very useful in lung infections.
A syrup made from the combination of Vasaka leaf, Liquorice root, tulsi leaf, ginger root, Haritaki fruit, pippali fruit, and peppermint is beneficial.
Talisadi and Sitopaladi are other such herbs that are an excellent addition since they focus on immunity build.
Fortunately, the body desperately wants to keep the lungs healthy, so let’s work with the body’s priorities to heal these lung problems.
At Madras Institute of Ayurveda [MIA]—the Herbal Ayurveda and Panchakarma Centre, there is an Out-patient Department with facilities for consultation in different areas, regular check-ups and more. It also possesses an in-patient department with well-equipped Panchakarma theatres. Successful treatment options for an entire spectrum of diseases are offered. A correct diagnosis is essential before starting the treatment.

So, log on to www.miayurveda.org for any questions or concerns you may have.

Ayurvedic pharmacy introduces two good friends, “Ashwagandha and Brahmi”, that work together to keep the body calm and support the mind. The Ayurvedic chemistry includes Gunas [Qualities], of the herbs and the Shakti [energy] of a remedy preparation. 

 

Caring for the Nerves—One becomes entangled with unprocessed thoughts, and feelings [what we call Ama, or “Goo” in Ayurveda], which can be from grief, trauma, or just the byproduct of overextended stress. It can produce a general dullness or numbness in mind. Here is where the two Ayurvedic herbs-Ashwagandha and Brahmi come into play!

Our Nervous System impacts every breath, feeling, decision, and experience in our lives. We generally tend to focus our attention on the imbalances of the physical body, but Ayurveda claims the mind to be the root cause of all shortcomings. 

 

Ashwagandha and Brahmi are the two Herbal Warriors that support the nervous system: 

 

• Ashwagandha brings warmth, vitality, and strength. The root is the part that’s most often used in herbal preparations to support the nervous system. It is the combination of the word Ashva, meaning horse, and Gandha, meaning smell, so translated it means “smell of a horse” or the essence of a horse, alluding to the fact that it can give us strength and stamina just like a stallion! 

 

This herb naturally aids the nervous system, helping us maintain the vigour to process stressful experiences, supporting our concentration, and helping to fuel our bodies with the energy needed to run the system. Other uses include rejuvenation of the nervous system and brain cells, memory support, combatting stress and immune support.

 

• Brahmi is more cooling in nature yet also an excellent tonic for the nervous system. Brahmi, like ashwagandha, also helps our nervous system to withstand emotional stress and improves our capacity to focus. It brings more support to our mind’s ability to learn and remember! Brahmi is bitter, light, and oily. In Ayurveda, this means it has a general “building” or brahmana quality, which makes it an excellent rejuvenator for the nervous system, immune system, and the mind. 

 

These two beautiful herbs will each offer the nervous system the strength to stay focused. The combination of pungent and bitter qualities support concentration and learning. 

 

When dealing with grief, depression, or anxiety, a daily massage with Ashwagandha or Brahmi sesame seed oil helps feel more at ease, supported my nervous system, and provides a sense of deep compassion and nourishment for the mind, body, and soul. Brahmi in the summer and ashwagandha for winter. 

For any additional questions about ashwagandha, Brahmi, or abhyanga in general, talk to an Ayurvedic doctor at ‘The Madras Institute of Ayurveda’ [MIA], Chennai. MIA offers a wide range of various ailment treatments. 

Log on to www.miayurveda.org for more information.

In Ayurveda, Goiter is called ‘Galaganda’. Goitre is the enlargement of the ‘Thyroid Gland’ that results in the swelling of the throat region. Usually, goitre is painless, but if it becomes too large, it starts causing difficulty in swallowing and breathing. Goitre may be or may not be associated with the actual Thyroid Dysfunctions.

 

Causes of Goitre—

Goitre is caused due to iodine deficiency. Other factors such as exposure to radiations, pregnancy, family history of autoimmune disease, cigarette smoking, and some bacterial, viral and fungal infections may also cause goitre. 

 

Some Common Symptoms are—

• Hoarseness of voice
• Cough
• Swelling
• A feeling of heaviness in the body

 

Treating Goiter with Ayurveda–

According to Ayurveda, Galaganda is caused by ‘Vitiated Kapha’, though sometimes vata might also be involved. Vitiated Kapha mixes with Meda Dhatu (fat tissue), creating swelling in the throat, which is called Galaganda. It’s classified into three types, viz. Vataj, Kaphaj and Medoj-

—Vataj Galaganda (caused mainly by vitiated Vayu) is slightly painful and is marked by dryness and tastelessness in the mouth. 

—Kapha Galaganda (caused primarily to vitiated Kapha) is large and cold to touch, causes very little pain and feels sweet in the mouth. 

—Medoj Galaganda (caused mainly by vitiated Meda Dhatu) has an offensive odour and may cause staggering speech and oiliness in the mouth.

 

Lifestyle changes and Diet Advice—

• Consume adequate quantity of iodine every day. For adults, the daily requirement of iodine is 150 mcg.
• Codfish, milk, yoghurt, locally grown fruits, vegetables and eggs are rich sources of iodine. They should be consumed in adequate quantity.
• Include–Iron-rich foods(like onion, garlic, carrot), Vitamin A rich foods (papaya, mango, sweet potato) and Vitamin B rich foods(like guava, okra, nuts) regularly.
• Foods such as spinach, soya beans and peanuts should be minimized, especially by those who are more at risk.
• Neck exercises and Yoga (especially those which mobilizes the neck region) should be performed.
• Sedentary lifestyle and mental stress can disturb the thyroid function. Therefore, the practice should be to follow a healthy and relaxed lifestyle.
• Level of thyroid hormones should be checked at least once a year.

 

Come to our Ayurvedic Center — “The Madras Institute of Ayurveda” at Chennai, to learn more about Ayurvedic treatment plans. This centre has facilities for a whole range of ayurvedic treatments. It mimics the Authentic Kerala Chikitsalaya [ Treatment Center]. 

For any queries, you may have, log on to www.miayurveda.org.

Constipation, as we all know, is one of the most common health issues. A day without a complete bowel movement can be unpleasant and painful.

What Is constipation, and what does it do to the human body?

Constipation is a Vata condition that expresses qualities like dryness and hardness. It occurs when Vata’s cold and dry qualities disturb the colon, interfering proper functioning. It is caused due to insufficient fibre in the diet, inadequate water intake, lack of exercise and numerous other factors. Constipation may increase chances of distension and discomfort, flatulence and pain, and headache and bad breath.

 

Reasons for Constipation–

Constipation is usually caused by not paying attention to nature’s call in time. A sedentary lifestyle, irregular eating habits, a disturbed and worried mind, and drinking too much tea or coffee adds up to already sluggish digestion, eventually causing constipation.

 

Ayurveda suggests the following to cure constipation—

*Vata Dosha Pacifying Diet—One of the best ways to prevent constipation is to follow ‘Vata Balancing Diet’. Do not consume cold foods and drinks, dried fruit, salads and beans. Consume only warm foods, warm beverages and well-cooked vegetables.

*Triphala Is The Remedy–-One of the most trusted and most effective remedies is Triphala, that helps cure constipation. Consume Triphala tea or take one-fourth of a teaspoon of it, half teaspoon of coriander seeds and one-fourth teaspoon of cardamom seeds. Grind them and have twice a day. Triphala has laxative properties, and cardamom and coriander seeds help relieve flatulence and indigestion.

*Milk and Ghee—Consuming one or two teaspoons of ghee in a cup of hot milk at bedtime is a very effective and gentle means of relieving constipation. 

*Liquorice Root—Take a teaspoonful of Liquorice root powder and add a teaspoon of jaggery. Drink this with a cup of warm water. Liquorice or Mulethi is known to promote bowel activity.

*Roasted Fennel—A teaspoon of roasted fennel taken at bedtime with a glass of warm water can act as a mild laxative. The volatile oils found in fennel can help kick start digestion by promoting the production of gastric enzymes.

*Figs [Anjeer]—Fresh and dry Figs are highly recommended due to the presence of its high fibre content. You can eat figs every day to keep your digestion going.

 

Bid goodbye to constipation by following this simple advice—

– Drink around four glasses of water in the morning. You can drink green tea or chamomile tea that can help boost your digestion.

– Consume a fibre-rich diet every day.

– Exercise at least 30 minutes daily to help kick-start your metabolism.

– Include lots of seasonal fruits and vegetables to add up to the bulk.

 

The Madras Institute of Ayurveda – Centre for treatment in Chennai, where age-old tradition meets modern techniques, ranges from ‘Panchakarma treatment to Rejuvenation treatment’. There are facilities for a whole range of quality ayurvedic treatments, with the highest standards dating back to Vedic times. This Institute was established to bring the same genuine treatment with all facilities to a more accessible location. 

So, feel free to log on to www.miayurveda.org to learn more about the procedures this centre offers.

 

 

 

 

• It is very much necessary to form a habit of evacuating early morning. Regular physical exercise is also important for having clear bowels. One should try to have relaxed mind, free from anxiety, stress etc.

Absolute No-nos! :

• –Pasteurized milk
• –Cooked eggs
• –Overcooked Meats
• –Refined starch.

Allergies are not fun to handle. They spell out discomfort for those of us who already suffer from allergies.
So, what are Allergies?
According to Ayurveda—an allergy is the result of an allergen- aggravating a specific Dosha: Vata, Pitta, or Kapha.
Ayurveda describes allergies according to dosha, depending on which one gets triggered in any given case. The pitta-predominant individual is likely to develop a pitta type of allergy, whereas a Kapha-predominant individual is likely to suffer from a Kapha type.
Let’s understand the three types of allergies identified in the Ancient Ayurvedic—

*Vata-Type Allergies
Vata types of allergies are commonly experienced in the digestive tract and include symptoms such as burping, gastrointestinal discomfort, gurgling intestines, abdominal pain, wheezing, headache, sneezing, sciatica, muscle spasms and other Vata-type discomforts.
Vata imbalances can cause food sensitivities to –raw foods, many beans (black beans, pinto beans etc.), and some animal protein, like pork.
–Balancing Vata
When Vata is aggravated, it is essential to slow down, keep warm, stay hydrated, and eat a Vata pacifying diet. Vata type of allergies often gets better with the intake of ginger or liquorice teas with an added drop of ghee. As the place of Vata is in the colon, one very effective therapy for balancing Vata-type allergies is a Dashamula tea enema.

*Pitta-Type Allergies
Pitta type of allergies usually occurs when the allergen comes in contact with the skin, slowly entering the blood. Pitta-type of allergies is often skin-based reactions such as itching, allergic dermatitis, eczema, rashes and may also involve bloodshot eyes. Pitta allergies can also cause heartburn, acid indigestion, stomach issues, nausea, or even vomiting.
Pitta can cause food sensitivities to hot spicy dishes, citrus fruits, tomatoes and fermented foods.
–Balancing Pitta
For Pitta type of allergies, it is advisable to eat a Pitta pacifying diet. Natural formulas that specifically support the blood can also be beneficial– a mixture of Manjistha and Neem. Mix one-part Manjistha with one-part Neem; take ½ teaspoon of the mix in warm water three times per day, after meals.

*Kapha Type Allergies
Kapha type allergies are most likely to be a cause of pollen-based allergens. The symptoms include irritation of the mucous membranes, hay fever, colds, congestion, sinus infection, bronchial congestion, asthma, and even sleeping disorders. Kapha can cause food sensitivities to dairy products like milk, yoghurt or cheese.
–Balancing Kapha
It is good to keep warm and dry, stay active, and eat a Kapha friendly diet. Clarifying teas such as ginger, cinnamon, cardamom, etc., can help to eliminate excess Kapha. Using local honey as a sweetener helps to cleanse the system. Trikatu, in tablet form, can also be supportive. Besides, Punarnava very effectively clears excess Kapha from the chest and stomach, promoting proper fluid balance in the tissues.
Panchakarma is also a very effective means of clearing accumulated Kapha from the system.

Here are some useful ayurvedic approaches to help stop allergies—
* Use a Neti pot, with a weak saline solution and distilled water, to loosen up the heaviness of Kapha. This also helps remove allergens that may be sticking to the mucous membranes.
* Practice Nasya: Dab a little sesame oil with eucalyptus or camphor in each nostril about an hour after using the neti pot.
*Take Trikatu, a combination of black pepper, long pepper, and ginger, before meals to heat the Agni (digestive fire).
* Avoid cold foods and drinks, including dairy, wheat, meat and iced drinks, as they can slow down the digestion and dampen the Agni.
*Eat warm, light, natural, cooked foods that are easy to digest. Focus on fresh, organic vegetables and fruits. Cook vegetables with a little bit of ghee or olive oil to soothe the mucous membranes.
* Include ginger tea throughout the day, as it helps the digestive fire.
* Take Triphala tablets at night to help rid the body of excess toxins that can cause slow digestion. The Ayurvedic trio of Amalaki, Haritaki, and Bibtaki, derived from fruits, works to cleanse and strengthen the system.
* Exercise daily to help stimulate Agni and eliminate Ama.

At ‘The Madras Institute of Ayurveda, Chennai, treatments for various ailments are offered. This ancient system of medicine heals in a very natural and holistic way. Benefits of Ayurveda go way beyond just relief. Treatment type is customized and integrates the age-old traditions into a daily routine (Dinacharya) and seasonal routine (Ritucharya) to help cure and prevent recurrence of any illnesses.
Log on to www.miayurveda.org to learn more about Ayurveda and its beneficial treatments.

The very name [Parkinson] makes you burst out in a cold sweat—something menacing and frightening about it, right?

So, what is Parkinson’s disease, and what makes it so terrifying? 

Parkinson’s Disease is a Motor System Disorder. It is a disease of the nervous system that mostly affects older people, which begins around the age of 50. It is a progressive disease which, in most cases, will gradually get worse.

 

Symptoms of Parkinson’s?

            *Restricted and slow movements 

             *Muscle stiffness all over the body and

            *Tremors 

Ayurvedic Insight of Parkinson’s Disease—

According to Ancient Ayurveda, Parkinson’s is caused by a Vata ailment that is chronic, with the symptoms becoming worse each day. The Ayurvedic texts describe Parkinson’s as Kampavata – where Kampa means tremor, and Vata means metabolic disorder. According to Ayurveda, Vata governs the body movement, and Parkinson’s is the cause of an imbalance of the Vata Dosha. 

 

Treatment for Parkinson’s?

Some effective treatments can relieve the symptoms. Ancient Ayurveda has a more holistic approach, where it’s believed to cure the condition naturally. Ayurvedic approach is based on the fact that most of the problems arise due to imbalances in the ‘Tridosha’ [ Kapha, Vata, and Pitta].

Ayurvedic therapies help in controlling the symptoms to a great extent. 

• Garlic, which is an excellent antioxidant, helps control oxidative damage to neurons. Garlic extracts are vital and beneficial in balancing the Vata components. Mix 5gm garlic paste, 5ml of gingelly oil, and a pinch of rock salt. Taken twice a day, this combination can effectively reduce symptoms of Parkinson’s Disease.
• Make a decoction with 20ml each of Tinospora Cordifolia, Zingiber officinale and Boerrhvia diffusa that can be combined with 10ml castor oil and taken twice a day. The disturbances of Vayu [Air] in the Colo-rectal region can be treated with moist laxatives such as Triphala and Psyllium.
• Mucuna Pruriens, when taken along with Neuroprotective herbs such as Ashwagandha and Haridra, can be used for treatment. 10gm of the Ayurvedic formulation made with “Ashwagandha and Mucuna Pruriens” must be taken with milk twice a day for a few weeks. Herbs, such as Brahmi and Jatamansi, can also be added to the formulation or used separately. They help in controlling secondary symptoms of the disease such as depression.

 

 Controlling Diet in Parkinson’s

 Patients should remember that they have to control their diet, to manage the disease better. Being healthy can help them cope with the disease and reduce the symptoms. Therefore—

*Include more fibre in your daily diet. Some of the foods with high fibre include peas and beans, whole grain bread, vegetables, cereals, rice, and fresh fruits.

*Say no to foods–that are high in cholesterol or saturated fat.

*Reduce the quantity of milk, curds, sugar and salt.

*Drink lots of water – at least eight glasses every day.

*Avoid alcohol totally, as it might interfere with the medications.

 

With all this said, we now need an expert to guide us through the process of treatment and care. At Madras Institute of Ayurveda, the centre for ayurvedic treatment in Chennai, quality care range from Panchakarma treatment to rejuvenation treatment. The facility provides a whole range of holistic ayurvedic therapies with the highest standards and finest traditions dating back to Vedic times. So, come and take full advantage of our offers or log on to our website at www.miayurveda.org for further information.

 

 

Psoriasis is a non-infectious, inflammation of the skin. There is increased proliferation of the skin layers due to excessive division of the cell in the basal areas. There is frequently a Genetic Predisposition. 

 

Causes of Psoriasis- 

Psoriasis is the cause of the faulty balance of Vata and Kapha. [Two of the primary energies, that maintain our body’s equilibrium, according to ayurveda]. The build-up of mild poisons called Dooshi Vishas is the first change occurring in the body. Improper eating habits, consuming the wrong food combinations, excessive intake of yoghurt, seafood, sour foods, etc., can aggravate the pathogenesis. 

Ayurveda is an ancient, holistic and natural form of treatment. It is based on the fact that good health depends on a healthy body, Mind, and Spirit.

It relies on herbal remedies and living a healthy lifestyle, which include—

• Exercises such as Yoga 
• Ayurvedic therapies
• Detoxification and most importantly –
• A timely, healthy Diet

Ayurveda practitioners believe that every person has a well-defined energy pattern which includes three types of energies, called doshas. They are Vata [controls bodily functions], pitta [controls metabolic functions] and Kapha [controls growth in the body] energy. When these doshas go out of balance, you may feel over-stressed or fall sick. Therefore, Ayurvedic therapies aim to keep your doshas balanced for optimal health.

 

Treatments Include–

*Panchakarma therapy

The first medication used to correct psoriasis is Panchakarma therapy. This treatment involves plant-based medicines and dietary changes that are meant to detox and purify the body. A ‘Vegetarian Diet’ is often recommended.

The Panchakarma treatment includes—

• Consuming medicated ghee, considering the dosha type
• Covering the entire body in a paste of medicines and mud
• Detoxifying by introducing purging [Virechana] and vomiting [Vamana]
• Dripping medicated buttermilk on the forehead [Dhara] and 
• Introducing medicated enemas [Basthies] 

The success of the treatment depends on the severity of psoriasis, and how committed one is, to the treatment.

The following Ayurvedic Remedies may also be used to treat psoriasis:

• Onions and Garlic, to purify the blood
• The paste of jasmine flower, to relieve itching and reduce inflammation
• Guggul Vati or powder to reduce swelling and puffiness
• Neem leaves to boost the immune system and purify the blood
• Turmeric to reduce inflammation, redness and swelling

Psoriasis can be triggered by physical or emotional stress. Meditation and exercise can help reduce stress-related psoriasis flare-ups. Some herbal remedies can also help to reduce stress. For example, an Ayurvedic herb ‘Ashwagandha’ determined that the herb has anti-stress properties and is a very beneficial restorative tonic. Ashwagandha is also known as ‘The Indian Ginseng’. Ayurvedic treatments should always be taken under the direction of a trained practitioner.

 

Talking to your Ayurvedic Vaid [doctor]

If you suspect to have psoriasis, it’s essential to consult a medical doctor for a diagnosis first. The mind-body connection seems to play a role in overall wellness. Ayurvedic treatment that helps one person may not be of help to another. So, developing a plan that includes both mainstream and Ayurvedic medicine, can hopefully give the best of both worlds and satisfying results as well.

 

Visit our ayurvedic centre at ‘Madras Institute of Ayurveda’, Chennai for a wide range of treatment plans for various health issues. Madras Institute of Ayurveda offers dedicated services by trained therapists. Care begins with an accurate diagnosis, based on which the doctors create a customised treatment plan to correct the disease and not the symptoms alone.

So, log on to www.miayurveda.org for any further queries you may have.

Asthma is a chronic disorder of the lung, caused due to inflammation in the airways, which become narrower and fill with mucus. It ultimately blocks the airflow, which then results in short gasping breaths, causing wheezing, coughing and tightness of the chest. Asthma can be triggered by allergic reactions to irritants like dust, smoke, fumes or chemical allergens like pollen and grass. The underlying cause of all asthmatic conditions is-‘Increased Kapha dosha in Stomach’. From there it progresses into the lungs, trachea and bronchi. ‘Kapha’ is one of the three energies or doshas (Vata, pitta and Kapha) responsible for balancing the overall health. 

 

Bronchial Asthma is one of the most’ Fatal Respiratory Diseases’. It’s called ‘Tamaka Shvasa‘ [difficulty in breathing]. The primary dosha associated with bronchial Asthma is the watery Kapha which leads to mucus formation. This accumulation leads to narrowing and obstruction of the arteries. As a result, there is an obstruction in the airflow of the lungs, causing ‘shortness of breath and difficulty in breathing’.

 

Let us understand the different types of Asthma based on the dominant doshic influence——–‘The Causes.’

 

Vata dosha:  This type of Asthma is caused due to physical or emotional stress. It could also be triggered by a diet that is dry and cold (qualities of Vata). It usually exhibits dry cough following an asthma attack, that could lead to drastic weight loss along with other symptoms of Vata deterioration. Vata Dosha is the most common type of dosha.

 

Kapha dosha. Consuming excessive cold and heavy foods or even overeating, can trigger this type. A wet cough will usually follow with an asthmatic episode. Mucus is cloudy in consistency and white. Those suffering from this type, may be overweight or show other signs of Kapha vitiation.

 

Pitta dosha: Pitta vitiation can be a combination of Vata or Kapha type asthma. It is usually caused by exposure to allergens or microbes. The bronchial passages get inflamed, and the cough produced has a yellow or green mucus. 

 

Ayurvedic Treatment— 

Here are some Ayurvedic remedies that can help in reducing the symptoms of Asthma and controlling the frequency of the attacks. The treatment aims to move the excess Kapha back to stomach and then eliminate it. The following methods are adopted—

• Swedana [Sudation]
• Vamana [Therapeutic emesis]
• Virechana [Therapeutic purgation] 

The above therapies will be applied as per the need of individual patients. The practice of Pranayama, laxatives, light diet in the night and use of warm water add to the treatment of Asthma.

 

Ayurvedic treatments for asthma focus on eliminating the Kapha lodged in the lungs. Herbs like Vasa, Pushkarmula and Yastimadhu are all known to control the symptoms of asthma”.

 

 Pathya—Execute the following

• Goduma (wheat), od rice, Mudga (green gram), Kulattha (Horse gram), Yava (barley), Patola (snake gourd)
• Lukewarm water, goat milk, honey
• Respiratory exercises, Pranayama, yoga
• Use of Garlic, turmeric, ginger, black pepper

 

 

Apathya—Avoid the following

• Exposure to Smoke, Dust and fumes and pollen
• Exposure to cold & humid atmosphere
• Sweets, cold water, stored food items, curd
• Suppressing of natural urges
• Excessive physical exertion
• Cold foods, fried and heavy snacks, fish etc.

 

Come to our centre at ‘Madras Institute of Ayurveda’ [ MIA] Chennai, to learn more about the treatments offered for various health issues. With an ever-increasing awareness on Ayurveda, the quest is for proper treatment and facilities by qualified therapists. MIA aims at bringing natural ayurvedic medicine with all facilities to a more accessible location. Log onto www.miayurveda.org for any questions.