Asthma Treatment in Ayurveda

Question

My 10-year-old son has been dealing with asthma since he was about five, and it’s been really hard watching him struggle with breathing issues, especially during the colder months or when he’s around dust. We’ve been managing it with inhalers and medications prescribed by his doctor, but I recently came across information about asthma treatment in Ayurveda and wondered if it could be an additional way to help him.

From what I understand, Ayurveda sees asthma as a problem with the kapha dosha and suggests treatments that focus on balancing it. Are there specific remedies or therapies that are particularly effective for children? I’ve read about herbs like tulsi, vasa, and mulethi being used in asthma treatment in Ayurveda, but I’m not sure if these are safe for kids or how to prepare them.

Another thing I’m curious about is whether diet plays a big role in asthma treatment in Ayurveda. My son eats a pretty regular diet, but he does enjoy cold drinks and snacks like ice cream, which I’ve heard can aggravate respiratory issues. Would we need to cut these out completely, or are there alternatives that would be more suitable?

I’ve also read about Ayurvedic therapies like nasyam and steam inhalation using medicated oils. Do these work well for asthma, and are they something that can be done at home? How often should they be used, and are there any risks involved?

Lastly, I’m wondering how long it usually takes to see results from asthma treatment in Ayurveda. Is it a gradual improvement over time, or do some treatments work more quickly? If anyone here has used Ayurvedic methods for managing asthma, I’d love to hear about your experience. Did you notice a reduction in the severity or frequency of attacks?

I’m also looking for recommendations for trustworthy Ayurvedic practitioners or products, especially those that are suitable for children. I want to make sure we’re trying the right approach.

Dr. Harsha Joy · Accepted Answer

In Ayurveda, asthma is often associated with an imbalance in the kapha dosha, leading to excess mucus and congestion in the lungs and airways. Treatment typically focuses on balancing kapha through herbs, diet, and lifestyle changes. For children, herbs like tulsi (holy basil), vasa, and mulethi (licorice) can be helpful in reducing inflammation and clearing the respiratory system. However, dosage for children should be carefully monitored and adjusted according to age, so it's best to consult with an Ayurvedic doctor before starting these remedies. Tulsi, for example, can be given as a tea or in capsule form in smaller doses, while mulethi and vasa can be part of syrups or powders designed for kids. As for diet, it's important to avoid cold, heavy, or mucus-forming foods like ice cream and cold drinks, especially during asthma flare-ups. Warm, easily digestible foods with spices like ginger and turmeric are ideal. Steam inhalation with medicated oils (such as eucalyptus or turmeric oil) can help clear congestion, and nasyam (nasal administration of medicated oils) may also be beneficial to reduce inflammation in the sinuses and respiratory tract. These therapies are typically safe, but they should be done under supervision to avoid any irritation or discomfort. The benefits of Ayurvedic treatments for asthma are often gradual, and it can take weeks or months to see significant improvements. Consistency in using remedies and making dietary and lifestyle adjustments plays a key role in long-term success. If your son continues to have severe symptoms, Ayurvedic treatments can be used alongside conventional medication, but it’s always advisable to work with a qualified Ayurvedic practitioner who has experience with pediatric care to ensure safety and effectiveness.

Dr Sujal Patil · Answer

Ayurvedic treatment typically focuses on balancing kapha through herbs, diet, and lifestyle changes. For children, herbs like tulsi (holy basil), vasa, and mulethi (licorice) can be helpful in reducing inflammation and clearing the respiratory system. However, dosage for children should be carefully monitored and adjusted according to age, so it's best to consult with an Ayurvedic doctor before starting these remedies. Tulsi, for example, can be given as a tea or in capsule form in smaller doses, while mulethi and vasa can be part of syrups or powders designed for kids. As for diet, it's important to avoid cold, heavy, or mucus-forming foods like ice cream and cold drinks, especially during asthma flare-ups. Warm, easily digestible foods with spices like ginger and turmeric are ideal. Steam inhalation with medicated oils (such as eucalyptus or turmeric oil) can help clear congestion, and nasyam (nasal administration of medicated oils) may also be beneficial to reduce inflammation in the sinuses and respiratory tract. These therapies are typically safe, but they should be done under supervision to avoid any irritation or discomfort. The benefits of Ayurvedic treatments for asthma are often gradual, and it can take weeks or months to see significant improvements. Consistency in using remedies and making dietary and lifestyle adjustments plays a key role in long-term success.

Asthma Treatment in Ayurveda - #6725

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