World COPD Day is earmarked every year for the third Wednesday of November, which this year falls on November 15. The day is organized mainly by the Global Initiative for Chronic Obstructive Lung Disease (GOLD) in collaboration with healthcare professionals and COPD patient groups worldwide. The primary goal of World COPD Day is to raise awareness, share knowledge, and discuss solutions to reduce the risk and impact of this chronic disease.
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The theme for World COPD Day 2023 is ‘Breathing is Life - Act Earlier,’ which mainly emphasizes the significance of early lung health, early diagnosis, early interventions, and holistic approaches to managing this chronic respiratory condition. While advanced COPD requires allopathic medications such as prescribed bronchodilators and antibiotics, if you prefer a holistic approach to keeping your lungs healthy and preventing further degradation, let the 5000-year-old, timeless practice of Ayurveda be your ultimate saviour in effectively managing this condition.
Also Read: World COPD Day 2020: 5 Simple Exercises To Improve Lung Health And Breathe Well
Ayurveda, an ancient Indian system of medicine, offers a comprehensive and holistic approach to treating COPD. It mainly focuses on bringing the body, mind, and spirit together to equilibrium, promoting overall well-being. In this 2-minute read, we bring you a detailed Ayurvedic treatment procedure for COPD, aiming to provide relief and improve the quality of life for individuals with this condition.
Understanding COPD In Ayurveda
In Ayurveda, Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) is generally referred to as "Tamaka Shwasa" or "Pranavaha Srotas Dushti." Ayurveda views COPD as a disorder primarily involving the vitiation of the Vata and Kapha doshas, with secondary involvement of Pitta dosha. These doshas, when imbalanced, affect the respiratory system, causing obstruction and difficulty in breathing.
Vata Dosha Imbalance: Vata, representing air and ether elements, is responsible for movement and control of bodily functions. In COPD, aggravated Vata affects regular air activity, causing breathlessness, spasms, and dryness in the respiratory passages.
Kapha Dosha Imbalance: Kapha, representing earth and water elements, governs stability and lubrication. Aggravated Kapha produces excess mucus, congestion, and phlegm in the respiratory tract, obstructing the airways and impeding breathing.
Pitta Dosha Imbalance (Secondary): Pitta, representing fire and water elements, governs metabolic processes. In COPD, aggravated Pitta can cause inflammation and heat, exacerbating symptoms and disrupting the balance of Vata and Kapha.
Ayurveda therapy primarily focuses on the balance of these doshas as an imbalance of Vata and Kapha, especially in the chest area and respiratory system, disrupts the normal functioning of the lungs and airways. The goal of Ayurvedic treatment for COPD is to restore the balance of these doshas through dietary changes, lifestyle modifications, herbal remedies, Panchakarma therapies, and breathing exercises, ultimately alleviating symptoms and improving respiratory health.
Ayurvedic Treatment Steps To Manage COPD:
Prakriti Analysis and Dosha Assessment:
The treatment should be initiated by consulting an experienced Ayurvedic doctor or practitioner. The doctor usually thoroughly assesses the individual's prakriti (constitution) and the dosha imbalance present in the body. This helps in customizing the treatment plan to their specific needs.
Dietary And Lifestyle Modifications:
For effectively managing COPD, personalized diet plans are quite crucial. A diet that balances Vata and Kapha doshas while avoiding heavy, cold, and mucus-forming foods is usually advised. Encourage regular, light, warm, and easily digestible meals. Emphasize lifestyle changes such as regular exercise, pranayama (breathing exercises), and maintaining a daily routine.
Panchakarma (Detoxification):
Panchakarma therapies like Vamana (therapeutic vomiting) and Virechana (therapeutic purgation) help eliminate excess doshas and toxins from the body. These therapies aid in reducing congestion and improving lung function.
Abhyanga (Oil Massage) and Swedana (Steam Therapy):
Abhyanga, a full-body oil massage, followed by Swedana (herbal steam therapy), helps to relax the muscles, relieve stiffness, and enhance breathing. The choice of oils and herbs is based on the individual's dosha imbalance.
Herbal Medications:
Herbal medicines are prescribed to balance the aggravated doshas, strengthen the respiratory system, and enhance lung capacity. Common herbs include Pushkarmool, Vasaka, Yashtimadhu, and Tulsi, and herbal formulations include Talisadi Churna and Sitopaladi Churna. These herbs help in reducing inflammation, clearing mucus, and improving breathing.
Nasya (Nasal Administration):
Administering medicated oils or powders through the nasal passages relieves congestion and enhances respiratory function.
Rasayana Therapy:
Rasayana, the rejuvenation therapy, involves using specific formulations to enhance immunity and vitality. It helps to improve the overall health and well-being of individuals with COPD.
Yoga and Pranayama:
Specific yoga postures like Sukhasana, Bhujangasana, and Pranayama techniques such as Anulom Vilom and Kapalbhati benefit COPD patients. These practices enhance lung function, reduce stress, and improve respiratory health.
Regular Follow-up and Adjustments:
Continuous monitoring of the individual's progress is vital. Ayurvedic treatment plans are adjusted based on the response to therapies, ensuring maximum effectiveness.
Precautions:
- Seek guidance from a qualified Ayurvedic practitioner for a personalized treatment plan.
- Ayurvedic treatments may need to be continued over an extended period for optimal results.
- It's important to continue any prescribed allopathic medications while undergoing Ayurvedic treatment, gradually tapering them under medical supervision if necessary.
Conclusion
On World COPD Day, let us embrace the holistic approach of Ayurveda to managing COPD, focusing on restoring the balance of doshas, enhancing respiratory health, and improving overall well-being. Combining dietary modifications, lifestyle adjustments, herbal formulations, Panchakarma therapies, and rejuvenation techniques holds promising potential for alleviating symptoms and enhancing the quality of life for individuals battling COPD.
