ILD – Can Ayurveda help with Interstitial Lung Disease naturally?

Question

A few months ago, I started experiencing persistent shortness of breath, even with mild physical activity. At first, I thought it was just due to low stamina, but over time, I also developed a dry cough that wouldn’t go away. It felt like my lungs weren’t expanding properly, and even taking deep breaths felt restricted.

I finally went to a doctor, and after a series of tests, they diagnosed me with ILD (Interstitial Lung Disease). The doctor explained that ILD is a group of lung conditions that cause scarring in the lungs, making it harder to breathe over time. They said it’s a progressive condition, and while medications can slow it down, there’s no permanent cure.

I’ve been reading about Ayurveda and how it focuses on strengthening the lungs and reducing inflammation naturally. Does Ayurveda have treatments for ILD that can help reduce lung scarring and improve breathing? Are there herbs, breathing techniques, or dietary changes that could support lung function? I read that Ayurvedic therapies like Nasya and steam inhalation with medicated oils can be beneficial for respiratory health—would they help in this case?

Also, could ILD be linked to an imbalance in Kapha or Vata dosha? If so, what can be done to correct it? I really want to explore Ayurvedic treatments alongside my current medications to manage my symptoms better. If anyone has experience with Ayurveda for lung health, I’d love to know what worked for you!

Dr. Harsha Joy · Accepted Answer

ILD in Ayurveda is associated with Vata and Kapha imbalances, leading to lung dryness, fibrosis, and restricted airflow. While Ayurveda cannot reverse lung scarring, it aims to slow progression, improve breathing capacity, and strengthen lung function. Herbs like Vasaka (Adhatoda vasica), Yashtimadhu (Licorice), Pippali (Long pepper), and Shunthi (Dry ginger) help reduce inflammation and support respiratory health. Nasya therapy with medicated oils like Anu Taila, steam inhalation with eucalyptus or Tulsi, and Pranayama practices like Anulom Vilom and Bhramari can enhance lung capacity and ease breathing discomfort. A warm, light diet with ghee, turmeric, and black pepper can help manage symptoms. Regular abhyanga (oil massage) and mild sweating therapies (Swedana) may aid in balancing Vata and Kapha. It's essential to practice stress management and avoid exposure to pollutants, smoke, and cold drafts. Integrating Ayurveda with conventional treatment can offer better symptom management and quality of life.

Dr Sujal Patil · Answer

Ayurveda views Interstitial Lung Disease (ILD) as a chronic imbalance of Vata and Kapha doshas, leading to lung dryness, fibrosis, and restricted airflow. Vata governs movement and dryness, so its aggravation can cause lung tissue scarring, while Kapha imbalance leads to mucus accumulation, further restricting airflow. Ayurveda does not claim to "cure" ILD but aims to reduce inflammation, slow down fibrosis, and strengthen lung function naturally through herbs, therapies, and lifestyle modifications.

Certain Ayurvedic herbs are known for their lung-healing and anti-inflammatory properties. Vasaka (Adhatoda vasica) is excellent for clearing respiratory pathways, reducing inflammation, and improving oxygenation. Turmeric (Curcuma longa) with black pepper acts as a natural anti-fibrotic and immune modulator, while Licorice (Yashtimadhu) soothes lung tissue and prevents further scarring. Sitopaladi Churna and Talisadi Churna help relieve dry cough and improve lung capacity. Ayurvedic formulations like Chyawanprash (rich in antioxidants and Vitamin C) and Agastya Rasayana can also strengthen respiratory health.

Ayurveda emphasizes breathing techniques (Pranayama) and therapies to support lung function. Anulom Vilom (alternate nostril breathing) and Bhastrika (bellows breath) can improve oxygen intake and lung elasticity. Nasya therapy (instilling medicated oils in the nose), steam inhalation with eucalyptus oil, and warm medicated herbal decoctions can help reduce congestion and dryness in the lungs. Abhyanga (warm oil massage with sesame or Mahanarayan oil) can help balance aggravated Vata.

Dietary changes are essential to manage ILD naturally. Warm, nourishing foods like cooked vegetables, soups, and herbal teas help prevent Vata aggravation, while avoiding cold, dry, and heavy foods reduces Kapha accumulation. Ginger tea with honey, tulsi (holy basil), and mulethi (licorice) tea can soothe the lungs and improve breathing capacity. Since gut health is linked to lung health, strengthening digestion with Triphala or mild digestive spices like cumin, coriander, and fennel is beneficial. ILD requires long-term management, and Ayurveda can complement modern treatments by improving lung function and overall well-being.

ILD – Can Ayurveda help with Interstitial Lung Disease naturally? - #16807

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