Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD)

Āyurveda relates COPD to śvāsa roga, where aggravated kapha blocks prāṇavaha srotas (respiratory channels) and vāta drives breathlessness. Pitta may add inflammation. Weak agni (digestion) forms āma (toxins), worsening congestion and reducing lung capacity. Over time, disturbed doṣas weaken ojas (immunity), leading to chronic cough, wheezing, and difficulty in normal breathing.

Common Causes of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD)

Long-term smoking or exposure to pollutants.
Kapha-aggravating diet with dairy, fried, or cold foods.
Chronic respiratory infections weakening lungs.
Poor digestion producing toxins.
Genetic tendency combined with unhealthy lifestyle.

Symptoms of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD)

Chronic cough with mucus production.
Wheezing and breathlessness on exertion.
Chest tightness and reduced stamina.
Frequent respiratory infections.
Fatigue and disturbed sleep.

Ayurveda’s Approach to Healing Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD)

Herbs like tulasī, vaśā, pippalī, and guḍūcī.
Svedana (steam therapy) and dhoomapāna (herbal smoking) for kapha clearance.
Pañcakarma therapies like vamana and basti in suitable patients.
Pathya diet with warm soups, honey, and light meals.
Yoga, prāṇāyāma, and meditation to strengthen lungs.