Ayurvedic Approach to Respiratory and ENT Disorders: A Clinical Overview of Shwasa, Kasa, and Pratishyaya

Ayurvedic Approach to Respiratory and ENT Disorders: A Clinical Overview of Shwasa, Kasa, and Pratishyaya

Abstract:
Respiratory and ENT disorders such as Shwasa (asthma), Kasa (cough), and Pratishyaya (rhinitis) are frequently encountered in Ayurvedic practice. These conditions are predominantly Kapha-Vata disorders affecting the Pranavaha Srotas. This article provides a detailed clinical and Ayurvedic perspective on their etiology, pathogenesis, classification, signs, treatment principles, classical formulations, and Panchakarma options.

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1. Introduction
Shwasa, Kasa, and Pratishyaya are explained in detail in Ayurvedic texts and are grouped under Urdhwajatrugata Vikara (diseases of the region above the clavicle). These disorders disturb respiration and quality of life, and have significant doshic and srotas involvement.

2. Nidana (Etiological Factors)

• Ratri jagarana, exposure to cold or dust

• Intake of heavy, oily, kapha-increasing foods

• Suppression of natural urges (vega-dharana)

• Over-exertion

• Environmental allergens, infections

3. Classification

• Shwasa (5 types): Maha Shwasa, Urdhwashwasa, Chinna Shwasa, Tamaka Shwasa, Kshudra Shwasa

• Kasa (5 types): Vataja, Pittaja, Kaphaja, Kshataja, Kshayaja

• Pratishyaya: Vataja, Pittaja, Kaphaja, Sannipataja, Dushta

4. Samprapti (Pathogenesis)

• Vata and Kapha get aggravated and obstruct the Pranavaha Srotas

• In Shwasa, there is Kapha Avarana of Prana Vata

• In Kasa, irritation in the Urah sthana due to dosha dushti

5. Rupa (Signs & Symptoms)

• Shwasa: Dyspnea, wheezing, difficulty in expiration, anxiety

• Tamaka Shwasa: Night aggravation, need to sit upright

• Kasa: Cough, pain in chest, expectoration

• Pratishyaya: Nasal congestion, sneezing, rhinorrhea

6. Prognosis

• Kshudra Shwasa and Kaphaja Kasa are curable

• Tamaka Shwasa and Kshayaja Kasa are Yapya (manageable)

7. Chikitsa Sutra (Treatment Principles)

• Kapha-hara and Vata-anulomana

• Deepana-Pachana for Ama digestion

• Swedana and Nasya

• Shamana Chikitsa in stable conditions

• Shodhana Chikitsa in chronic or recurrent episodes

8. Shamana Aushadhi (Internal Medicines)

• Shwasa: Talisadi Churna, Sitopaladi Churna, Vasa Avaleha, Dashamoola Kwatha

• Kasa: Kasa Har Churna, Yashtimadhu, Bharangyadi Kwatha

• Pratishyaya: Tribhuvan Kirti Rasa, Haridra Khanda, Anu Taila Nasya

9. Panchakarma Therapies

• Svedana: Useful in Kapha-Vata involvement

• Nasya: For Pratishyaya, sinusitis

• Vamana: In chronic Shwasa and recurrent Kaphaja conditions

• Virechana: For Pittaja Kasa and Pratishyaya

• Basti: In Tamaka Shwasa, chronic Kasa

10. Pathya-Apathya (Diet & Lifestyle)

• Warm, light diet

• Avoid curd, cold water, heavy foods

• Use of warm water with ginger

• Avoid night exposure to cold and allergens

11. Conclusion
Ayurveda provides a rational and effective framework for managing respiratory and ENT disorders through a combination of dosha-specific internal medications, Panchakarma therapies, and preventive care.

12. References

1. Charaka Samhita Chikitsa Sthana Chapters 17–18

2. Ashtanga Hridaya Uttara Tantra – Kasa & Shwasa

3. Madhava Nidana – Kasa, Shwasa, Pratishyaya

4. Bhavaprakasha Nighantu – Vasa, Kantakari, Haridra

5. CCRAS Ayurvedic Formulary Vol I & II