Today we are talking about a comprehensive description of asthma, which is known in Ayurveda as “Tamaka Shwasa” (तमक श्वास).
Definition
In Ayurveda, asthma is referred to as Tamaka Shwasa, a type of chronic respiratory condition characterized by recurrent attacks of breathlessness, chest tightness, wheezing, and coughing. It is classified under Shwasa Roga (disorders of breathing) and is considered a Yapya Vyadhi a manageable but generally incurable condition.
Etymology
- Tamaka: From the root word tama, meaning “darkness,” referring to the suffocative nature of the attack where the patient feels darkness or unconsciousness due to breathlessness.
- Shwasa: Breathing or respiration.
Dosha Involvement
Asthma is primarily a Kapha-Vata disorder with occasional Pitta involvement during acute attacks.
- Kapha Dosha: Causes mucus accumulation in the lungs, leading to obstruction.
- Vata Dosha: Governs the movement of air and prana; its imbalance causes irregular and labored breathing.
- Pitta Dosha: May be involved in inflammation, burning sensation, or fever during exacerbation.
Pathogenesis (Samprapti)
- Aggravated Kapha and Vata accumulate in the chest (Uras).
- Obstruct the pathways of Prana Vayu (vital life force responsible for respiration).
- This causes obstruction of normal airflow and triggers breathlessness, wheezing, and coughing.
- Repeated episodes cause tissue weakness and chronicity.
Symptoms of Tamaka Shwasa
- Difficulty in breathing (especially at night)
- Wheezing sound
- Cough with expectoration (Kapha-rich)
- Feeling of heaviness in chest
- Restlessness, anxiety
- Dry mouth and throat
- Better in sitting posture and worse when lying down
- Perspiration and fatigue
Nidana (Causative Factors)
- Exposure to cold, dust, smoke, pollen
- Overeating or eating heavy, cold, or mucus-producing foods (e.g., dairy, fried items)
- Daytime sleeping
- Emotional stress
- Sudden exposure to wind or environmental changes
- Hereditary predisposition
Treatment (Chikitsa Sutra)
1. Shodhana (Cleansing Therapies)
To eliminate the accumulated Doshas:
- Vamana (Therapeutic Emesis) – Most effective for Kapha removal.
- Virechana (Purgation) – For Pitta involvement and detoxification.
- Nasya (Nasal cleansing) – Clears nasal passages and sinuses.
- Basti (Enema therapy) – Balances Vata Dosha and strengthens lungs.
Note: Panchakarma should be done under expert supervision.
2. Shamana (Palliative Therapies)
Herbal formulations and diet/lifestyle to pacify doshas:
- Sitopaladi Churna
- Talisadi Churna
- Vyoshadi Vatakam
- Kantakari Ghrita
- Dashamoola Kwatha
- Haridra (Turmeric) and Pippali (Long Pepper) combinations
- Trikatu Churna (dry ginger, black pepper, long pepper)
3. Rasayana Therapy (Rejuvenation)
To strengthen lung tissues and prevent recurrence:
- Chyawanprash
- Vasavaleha
- Pippali Rasayana
Lifestyle and Yoga Recommendations
Dinacharya (Daily Routine)
- Wake up before sunrise.
- Practice Abhyanga (oil massage) with warm sesame oil.
- Steam inhalation with eucalyptus or lemon and Ardathoda leaves.
- Mild Pranayama: Anulom Vilom, Bhramari, Sheetali
Asanas
- Bhujangasana (Cobra pose)
- Dhanurasana (Bow pose)
- Ardha Matsyendrasana (Half spinal twist)
- Matsyasana (Fish pose)
Pathya-Apathya (Diet & Regimen)
Recommended Foods
- Warm, light, and easily digestible meals
- Ginger tea with honey
- Turmeric milk (golden milk)
- Soup made of moong dal, cumin, garlic
- Tulsi and Pippali decoction
Avoid
- Cold, refrigerated or raw foods
- Dairy, curd, ice creams
- Oily, fried, or heavy food
- Excessive sweets and sugar
- Smoking, pollutants, allergens
Prognosis
- Yapya Vyadhi – Chronic but manageable with appropriate treatment.
- Regular detoxification, lifestyle correction, and immunity-building therapies are key.
- Severe attacks can be life-threatening and require emergency management.
