The lungs are a pair of spongy organs occupied by air, situated on either side of the thorax or chest, which are rather crucial internal structures responsible for respiration. While maintaining their optimal functions through a wholesome diet and regular exercise is key for breathing normally, they nevertheless encounter a host of ailments in situations of illness, with one such common condition being bronchitis.
Bronchitis refers to the inflammation of the bronchial tubes that perform the important task of transporting air to and from the lungs, which is vital for health and survival. It is characterised by excess phlegm in mucosal linings, blocked nose, incessant coughing, which gives rise to fatigue and body pain. Ayurveda terms bronchitis as “Tamaka Shwasa” in Sanskrit, which translates to inflammatory attributes and obstructions in the lungs, with the defining symptom being “Kaphaja Kasa”, meaning cough that occurs from vitiated kapha dosha, along with aggravated pitta. Besides these respiratory indications, Tamaka Shwasa also results in exhaustion and lowered productivity at home and work, hampered digestion, nausea, vomiting and constant headaches.
However, thanks to Ayurveda – the ancient Indian system of medicine, umpteen powerful herbs are available that restore tridoshic balance, laden with anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, bronchodilatory, expectorant and anti-allergic properties, to ameliorate inflamed or infected bronchial passages and elevate lung power. Discover some spectacular herbal solutions from the time-tested Ayurvedic manuscripts of Sushruta Samhita, Ashtanga Hridaya and Charaka Samhita, to effectively heal bronchitis.
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Fantastic Ayurvedic Remedies To Treat Bronchitis And Uplift Lung Health:
Honey
Known as “Madhu” in Sanskrit, honey has been used since time immemorial as a traditional remedy for respiratory complaints and breathing difficulty. This viscous natural sweetener is a storehouse of phytonutrients with expectorant properties. Mixing 2 tsp of honey in a glass of warm water and consuming it once daily aids in removing accrued mucus in the bronchial tubes of the lungs.
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Amla
This tiny green bounty called “Amalaki” in Sanskrit and Indian Gooseberry in English comprises profuse amounts of anti-allergic and antimicrobial compounds, that significantly thwart lung infection. Consuming a tonic prepared from 1 fresh amla fruit crushed to derive the juice, with 1 tsp cinnamon powder in warm water once a day works wonders in fighting off pathogenic bacteria in the lungs and relieving bronchitis symptoms.
Mustard Oil
Referred to widely as “Sarson Ka Tel” in Hindi and “Sarshapa Tailam” in Sanskrit, mustard oil is an astounding natural therapy for soothing inflamed lungs. In a bowl, mix 2 tbsp of mustard oil with a pinch of camphor and massage in gentle circular motions in the chest region. This herbal mixture offers noteworthy merits in releasing phlegm trapped in the airways and restore optimal breathing abilities.
Garlic
Garlic, called “Lahsun” in Hindi and “Rasona” in Sanskrit is a potent natural remedy for bronchitis and rectifying irritated, infected lungs. The cloves of this pungent spice are imbued with anti-inflammatory agents that enrich the structure and function of pulmonary tissues to restore respiratory health. Mince 2 cloves of garlic, add it to boiled milk and drink this herbal tonic once a day, which is a superb herbal cure for bronchitis.
Tulsi
Containing ample volumes of cooling bioactive components as well as antimicrobial elements, tulsi is an age-old home remedy for a host of lung conditions, including bronchitis. Boiling the leaves in warm water, distilling the extract to prepare a herbal drink and sipping on this tulsi tea in the evening as part of the regular diet efficiently resolves incessant coughing and headaches and alleviates signs of bronchitis.
Thyme:
Thyme, with its potent antimicrobial properties and active compound thymol, effectively combats respiratory infections and eases bronchitis symptoms by alleviating coughs and clearing congested airways. Inhaled as steam or consumed as thyme tea, this herb serves as a natural expectorant, soothing bronchial inflammation and aiding respiratory relief.
Ginger:
Ginger, known for its anti-inflammatory properties, offers relief from bronchitis by soothing irritated airways, reducing inflammation, and aiding in mucus elimination, providing respiratory comfort when consumed as tea or with honey. Its warming nature alleviates coughs and supports bronchial health, contributing to ease during bronchitis episodes.
Eucalyptus:
Eucalyptus, with its decongestant and expectorant properties, aids in relieving bronchitis symptoms by clearing mucus, easing coughs, and opening airways when used in steam inhalation or diffused in vapor form. Its antiseptic nature soothes inflammation in the respiratory tract, providing comfort and facilitating easier breathing during bronchial distress.
References:
- https://www.ijacare.in/index.php/ijacare/article/view/70
- https://ayurhealthcare.com.au/ayurvedic-treatments-for-bronchitis/
- https://www.ayurherbs.com.au/ayurvedic-remedies-for-bronchitis/
- https://www.easyayurveda.com/2021/01/06/bronchitis/