Abstract:

Tamaka Shwasa is a broad clinical entity in Ayurveda that encompasses several conditions in which dyspnoea is the predominant symptom. However, it can most appropriately be correlated with bronchial asthma. Among the five types of Shwasa Roga, three are considered incurable, while the fourth, Kshudra Shwasa, develops due to excessive physical exertion or intake of excessively dry (Ruksha) food and is easily curable. Tamaka Shwasa, particularly in its early stages, is manageable and may respond well to treatment; however, in chronic or long-standing cases, it becomes difficult to treat.

Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) is the fourth leading cause of death worldwide, and its prevalence continues to rise due to changing lifestyles and unhealthy habits. COPD primarily includes chronic bronchitis and emphysema, and it is considered the second most common pulmonary disorder after pulmonary tuberculosis. In Ayurveda, the clinical features of COPD can be correlated with disorders of Pranavaha Srotodushti, which generally manifest in long-standing cases of Tamak Shwasa. The etiological factors of COPD—such as smoking, exposure to cold weather, dust, air pollution, and chemicals—closely resemble the causes described for Tamak Shwasa. Proper identification, treatment, prevention, and control of COPD are essential, along with necessary lifestyle modifications. These principles are comprehensively described in Ayurveda under the management strategies and formulations indicated for Tamak Shwasa, which may be applied for the prevention and management of COPD.

Keywords:

Tamak shwasa, COPD, Anidra, Vaman, Virechan.

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Methods