Pneumonia

Āyurveda understands pneumonia as a type of jvara (fever) and śvāsa roga, where aggravated kapha fills the lungs with phlegm, vāta causes breathlessness, and pitta adds fever and inflammation. Weak agni (digestion) leads to āma (toxins), further blocking prāṇavaha srotas (respiratory channels), producing cough, chest pain, fever, and difficulty in breathing.

Common Causes of Pneumonia

Respiratory infections from bacteria or viruses.
Kapha-aggravating diet like cold, heavy, or oily foods.
Weak immunity and depleted ojas.
Exposure to dust, smoke, or polluted air.
Untreated colds or flu progressing into lung infection.

Symptoms of Pneumonia

High fever with chills and sweating.
Cough with thick or blood-streaked phlegm.
Chest pain worsening with breathing or cough.
Breathlessness and rapid, shallow breathing.
Fatigue, weakness, or loss of appetite.

Ayurveda’s Approach to Healing Pneumonia

Herbs like tulasī, vaśā, pippalī, and guḍūcī.
Śamana with turmeric and yasṭimadhu for lung support.
Svedana (steam therapy) to clear kapha congestion.
Wholesome, light diet with ghee, soups, and warm fluids.
Rest, prāṇāyāma, and gradual strengthening of lungs post-recovery.