What is a ventilator, and how does Ayurveda approach respiratory health naturally?

Question

I’ve been hearing a lot about ventilators lately, especially with the ongoing health crisis, and I don’t fully understand how they work. I know that ventilators are used for patients who have difficulty breathing, but how do they actually help? I recently had a relative who was put on a ventilator in the ICU, and I was shocked at how dependent he became on it for survival. He’s recovering now, but it got me thinking about respiratory health and how we can take better care of our lungs naturally.

I’ve also been struggling with occasional shortness of breath, and I’m concerned about the state of my lungs. I don’t have asthma or any major respiratory conditions, but I feel winded sometimes, especially after climbing stairs or doing physical activities. Could my lungs be weaker than I thought? How can I improve my lung health before it gets worse?

In Ayurveda, is there a natural way to support respiratory health and prevent the need for a ventilator in critical situations? I’ve read that herbs like tulsi, vasa, and licorice are good for strengthening the lungs and improving breathing. Can these herbs help me breathe easier and boost my lung capacity? I also came across the idea of pranayama—breathing exercises that help open the lungs and improve airflow. Do these really work, and how often should I practice them to see a benefit?

Another thing—my digestion isn’t great, and I know Ayurveda believes that poor digestion can affect the overall health of the body, including the lungs. Could my digestive issues be causing my shortness of breath? Should I focus more on improving my gut health to help with breathing problems?

I want to take a holistic approach to my respiratory health and avoid using medications or treatments like a ventilator if possible. If anyone here has used Ayurveda to strengthen their lungs or improve breathing, I’d love to hear your experiences. How did you incorporate Ayurvedic remedies into your daily routine? Did you notice a significant improvement in your lung health?

Dr. Harsha Joy · Accepted Answer

Ventilators are critical for patients with severe breathing difficulties, as they provide mechanical support by delivering oxygen into the lungs and helping remove carbon dioxide when a person cannot breathe adequately on their own. This support is especially crucial in ICU settings, where patients may be unable to maintain sufficient oxygen levels due to conditions like pneumonia, ARDS, or COVID-19. To improve lung health naturally, Ayurveda offers several approaches, such as using herbs like tulsi, vasa, and licorice, which are known to strengthen the respiratory system and ease breathing. Pranayama (breathing exercises) can also play a significant role in improving lung capacity and airflow, especially when practiced regularly. Additionally, Ayurveda emphasizes the connection between digestion and overall health, including the lungs. Poor digestion, or Agni (digestive fire), can weaken the body, making the lungs more susceptible to issues. Focusing on improving digestion through balanced meals, avoiding heavy or irritant foods, and using digestive-supporting herbs like triphala may help alleviate shortness of breath and boost respiratory health. If anyone has used Ayurveda to improve their breathing or lung health, their experiences would be helpful in guiding others looking for natural ways to strengthen the lungs.

What is a ventilator, and how does Ayurveda approach respiratory health naturally? - #16872

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