Asthma - #7

I’m sorry to hear about your son’s struggles with asthma. Ayurveda offers several approaches and remedies that may help manage his condition and reduce the frequency of attacks. First, ensure he has a balanced diet rich in fruits and vegetables to strengthen his immune system. Foods like apples, pears, and berries, along with green leafy vegetables, are beneficial. Incorporating warm, cooked foods can also help, as they are easier to digest. Herbs such as turmeric, ginger, and black pepper can reduce inflammation and support respiratory health. For asthma specifically, consider using tulsi, or holy basil, known for its anti-inflammatory and respiratory benefits. You can make tulsi tea by boiling fresh leaves in water, and drinking this tea regularly may help alleviate asthma symptoms. Vasaka, or Adhatoda vasica, is another herb traditionally used to treat respiratory conditions, helping to relax bronchial muscles and ease breathing. You can find vasaka syrup or capsules in Ayurvedic stores. Triphala, a combination of three fruits, is excellent for detoxification and may improve overall health, aiding digestion, which is important for respiratory health. Triphala powder can be taken with warm water before bedtime. Pippali, or long pepper, is known to improve lung function and support respiratory health, and pippali powder can be mixed with honey and taken daily. Fresh ginger can also soothe the airways; prepare ginger tea by boiling slices of ginger in water and adding honey for taste to ease breathing during an asthma attack. In addition to herbal remedies, incorporating breathing exercises like pranayama into his routine can strengthen lung capacity and improve overall respiratory function. Regular physical activity, such as walking or yoga, can also enhance lung function, but be sure he avoids any triggers during exercise.

I totally get how worrisome it must be for you to see your son struggling with asthma. Ayurveda offers some ways to help ease those symptoms and might even help reduce those frequency of attacks. It’s all about aiming for balance, specifically addressing kapha dosha, which tends to be involved in asthma issues.

For herbs, there’s a few that come to mind. Vasaka (or Malabar nut) is one of the stars. It’s known for its ability to clear respiratory pathways and soothe symptoms. Then there’s Tulsi, the holy basil, which can also assist with easing respiratory distress. Having Tulsi tea regularly — like one or two times a day — could help. You could also look into Pippali powder, taken with honey, for it’s warming effect which clears mucus.

In terms of lifestyle changes, try seeing if there are any environmental triggers around your home. Dust, smoke, strong odors — getting rid of those can make a big difference in managing asthma symptoms. Also, encourage regular steam inhalation, adding drops of eucalyptus oil if possible, helps to keep nasal passageways clearer.

Diet wise, warm foods that do not aggravate kapha should be the focus. So maybe cut back on cold, oily, or processed food stuff, and try incorporating warm soups or broths.

Make sure he stays hydrated, but avoid cold beverages. Instead, warm water with a pinch of turmeric and ginger could be soothing and also act as an anti-inflammatory.

Finally, yoga! Simple breathing exercises like Anulom Vilom or Bhramari Pranayama could improve lung capacity and help in calming the mind during attacks.

Please keep in mind, though, that if there’s any severe or worsening of his symptoms, it’s really crucial to get medical attention right away. Always best to consult with your current healthcare provider before making any changes, especially with something as sensitive as asthma. It’s about finding a gentle, supportive path forward for your son.

Asthma, particularly in children, can persistently challenge daily life, and seeking complementary approaches could help manage its frequency. In the Siddha-Ayurvedic tradition, asthma is often viewed through the lens of dosha imbalances, primarily involving vata and kapha. A holistic approach includes dietary changes, lifestyle adjustments, and specific herbal remedies.

Focus on a diet that helps balance these doshas. Warm, cooked foods that are easy to digest can support stabilizing symptoms—think of soups, stews, and lightly spiced vegetables. Avoid cold foods and drinks that may increase kapha and vata—like raw vegetables, ice creams, and cold beverages. Including warming spices such as ginger, black pepper, and turmeric can help support lung function and clear congestion.

Herb-wise, consider using Tulsi (Holy Basil) and Vasaka (Adhatoda vasica)—both have traditionally been known to support respiratory health. Tulsi tea, taken warm, can be consumed twice daily, and purified Vasaka leaves can be used in Ayurvedic formulations for regular support. However, it’s crucial to consult with a specialist for proper formulations suited to your son’s prakriti and to avoid any possible interactions with current medications.

Steam inhalation with a few drops of eucalyptus oil could also aid in easing breathing during an attack, but use it cautiously and ensure proper supervision due to sensitivity to oils in children. Incorporating Pranayama (breathwork) daily, under guidance, can strengthen the lungs.

While these integrations can be helpful, it’s vital to maintain routine medical care and continue prescribed medications to manage acute symptoms effectively. If asthma attacks seem severe or increase in frequency, consult your healthcare provider immediately for appropriate evaluations and treatments to ensure your son’s safety and well-being.