Respiratory Disorders in Ayurveda: A Detailed Review of Shwasa, Kasa, and Rajayakshma

Respiratory Disorders in Ayurveda: A Detailed Review of Shwasa, Kasa, and Rajayakshma

Abstract:
Respiratory disorders such as Shwasa (dyspnoea/asthma), Kasa (cough), and Rajayakshma (consumption/tuberculosis) are extensively described in Ayurveda. These disorders primarily affect the Pranavaha Srotas and involve doshic imbalances—mainly Vata and Kapha. This article provides a comprehensive Ayurvedic approach to the pathophysiology, clinical features, line of treatment, and Panchakarma modalities for effective management of respiratory diseases.

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1. Introduction
The Pranavaha Srotas are responsible for respiration and oxygenation. Obstruction, inflammation, or derangement of Vata and Kapha in this system leads to respiratory illnesses. These diseases are common in all age groups and may become chronic without proper treatment.

2. Nidana (Etiological Factors)

• Exposure to dust, smoke, allergens, and cold winds

• Suppression of natural urges, excessive speech or crying

• Improper food habits (e.g., excessive oily or cold food)

• Emotional stress and weakened immunity

3. Major Respiratory Disorders

• Shwasa – Dyspnoea (includes Tamaka Shwasa – Bronchial asthma)

• Kasa – Cough (acute or chronic)

• Rajayakshma – Tuberculosis (Kshaya roga)

• Hikka – Hiccups

4. Samprapti (Pathogenesis)

• Vata and Kapha dosha vitiation obstructs Prana Vaha Srotas

• Kapha accumulates in the chest and obstructs the normal respiratory flow

• Vata aggravation causes spasmodic breathing and cough reflex

• In Rajayakshma, Ojas kshaya and Tridosha dushti lead to systemic deterioration

5. Rupa (Clinical Features)

• Shwasa: Dyspnoea, wheezing, chest congestion, inability to lie down

• Kasa: Dry or productive cough, sore throat, hoarseness

• Rajayakshma: Emaciation, cough with blood, fever, fatigue, night sweats

6. Prognosis (Sadhya-Asadhyata)

• Acute Kasa and early Shwasa are Sadhya

• Tamaka Shwasa is Yapya

• Rajayakshma is Krichrasadhya to Asadhya depending on chronicity and tissue loss

7. Chikitsa Sutra (Treatment Principles)

• Kapha-Vata Shamaka therapies

• Srotoshodhana and Deepana-Pachana

• Rasayana and Ojaskara herbs in Rajayakshma

8. Ayurvedic Medicines

• Shwasa: Shwasa Kuthara Rasa, Talisadi Churna, Sitopaladi Churna, Vasavaleha

• Kasa: Kasa Har Churna, Bharangi, Yashtimadhu, Kantakari Ghrita

• Rajayakshma: Chyawanprash, Suvarna Vasanta Malati Rasa, Abhraka Bhasma, Guduchi Satva

9. Panchakarma Therapies

• Snehana and Swedana for Kapha melting

• Vamana in Kapha-dominant Shwasa

• Nasya for upper respiratory symptoms

• Basti for chronic and Vata-related Kasa and Shwasa

10. Pathya-Apathya (Diet & Lifestyle)

• Avoid cold, heavy, greasy, and mucus-forming foods

• Use warm water, soups, and herbal decoctions (Dashamoola, Kantakari)

• Practice Pranayama and light breathing exercises

• Maintain clean, allergen-free living spaces

11. Conclusion
Ayurveda provides a detailed and individualized approach to respiratory conditions. By correcting doshic imbalances, clearing channels, and restoring Ojas, respiratory health can be significantly improved with lasting results.

12. References

1. Charaka Samhita Chikitsa Sthana – Shwasa and Kasa Chikitsa

2. Ashtanga Hridaya Chikitsa – Chapters 3 to 5

3. Sushruta Samhita – Nidana Sthana on Rajayakshma

4. Bhavaprakasha Nighantu – Vasa, Kantakari, Bharangi

5. CCRAS Ayurvedic Formulary Vol I & II