Role of dhumapana and ardraka arka in tamaka shwasa management.
Journal name: Ayushdhara
Original article title: Role of dhumapana (nebulization) and pana with ardraka arka in the management of tamaka shwasa
AYUSHDHARA is an international peer-reviewed journal. It focuses on research in Ayurveda, Yoga, Unani, Siddha, Homeopathy, Allopathy, and Pharmaceutical Sciences.
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Summary of article contents:
Introduction
Tamaka Shwasa, which corresponds to bronchial asthma in modern medicine, is a significant health issue characterized by the vitiation of Kapha and Vata doshas affecting the Pranavaha srotas. In India, approximately 15-20 million individuals suffer from asthma yearly, leading to recurrent episodes of breathlessness and wheezing. Various treatment methods from Ayurvedic texts focus on managing Tamaka Shwasa through modalities such as Shodhana, Shamana, and Tarpana, emphasizing the inhalation route for direct drug delivery and faster effects. This study evaluates the efficacy of Dhumapana (nebulization) with Ardraka Arka and its internal administration compared to standard treatments, aiming to uncover an effective therapeutic approach for asthma management.
Inhalation Therapy: A Prominent Concept in Ayurveda
The inhalation of medicated smoke, referred to as Dhoomapana in Ayurveda, has been documented as an effective management strategy for respiratory conditions, including Tamaka Shwasa. The practicality of nebulization has allowed for the delivery of active compounds directly to the lungs, promoting quicker relief from symptoms. The Arka Prakasha text highlights Ardraka Arka—a ginger extract—as beneficial in alleviating asthma symptoms due to its Kapha-Vata balancing and heating properties. In this study, two groups of patients received different forms of Ardraka: one through nebulization and another through oral intake, with results demonstrating the superiority of the inhalation method in symptom relief.
Clinical Findings and Treatment Efficacy
The study conducted on patients with Tamaka Shwasa demonstrated significant improvements in symptoms after treatment with nebulized Ardraka Arka. Subjective assessments indicated marked reductions in wheezing, sputum production, respiratory and heart rates, and overall improvements in peak expiratory flow rates. Comparatively, the internal administration of Ardraka Arka in the control group showed less pronounced improvements. Statistical analyses confirmed that nebulization provided a more effective symptom reduction, highlighting how alternative natural therapies can enhance asthma management without the adverse effects commonly seen with pharmaceuticals.
Conclusion
The management of Tamaka Shwasa through innovative methods such as Dhumapana via nebulization represents a promising advancement in Ayurvedic practice. The compelling evidence from the study underscores the importance of inhalation therapies in delivering immediate symptom relief for asthma patients. Utilizing conventional Ayurvedic drugs like Ardraka can effectively alleviate distressing symptoms, presenting a viable alternative for individuals seeking to minimize reliance on conventional medications with potential side effects. This study affirms the role of Ayurveda in integrating ancient practices with modern methodologies, offering patients improved quality of life and management of chronic respiratory conditions.
Original source:
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*Sushma Pujari
PG Scholar, Dept. of Panchakarma,Sree Kalabyraveshwara Swamy Ayurvedic Medical College, Hospital and Research Centre, Bangalore, Karnataka, India.
Mamatha K.V
Reader, Dept of Shalakya Tantra, Sree Kalabyraveshwara Swamy Ayurvedic Medical College, Hospital and Research Centre, Bangalore, Karnataka, India.
Kiran M Goud
Principal & Professor, Dept of Panchakarma, Sree Kalabyraveshwara Swamy Ayurvedic Medical College, Hospital and Research Centre, Bangalore, Karnataka, India.
Baidyanath Mishra
Deputy Dean, PG Studies, Sree Kalabyraveshwara Swamy Ayurvedic Medical College, Hospital and Research Centre, Bangalore, Karnataka, India.
Ayushdhara:
(A peer-reviewed, bi-monthly open-access journal)
Full text available for: Role of dhumapana (nebulization) and pana with ardraka arka in the management of tamaka shwasa
Year: 2014
Copyright (license): CC BY-NC-SA 4.0
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FAQ section (important questions/answers):
What is Tamaka Shwasa and its modern equivalent?
Tamaka Shwasa, identified in Ayurveda, corresponds to bronchial asthma in modern medicine. It arises from the vitiation of Kapha and Vata dosha affecting the Pranavaha srotas, leading to symptoms like breathlessness and wheezing.
How does Dhumapana (Nebulization) benefit asthma management?
Dhumapana, or inhalation therapy, directly delivers therapeutic agents like Ardraka Arka to the lungs. This method provides rapid relief from symptoms by reducing inflammation and improving airflow, making it effective in managing acute exacerbations of asthma.
What were the aims of the study on Ardraka Arka?
The study aimed to evaluate the efficacy of Ardraka Arka Pana and Dhumapana, comparing their effects in managing Tamaka Shwasa. It sought to demonstrate the therapeutic benefits of nebulization in enhancing patient quality of life without adverse medication effects.
Glossary definitions and references:
Scientific and Ayurvedic Glossary list for “Role of dhumapana and ardraka arka in tamaka shwasa management.”. This list explains important keywords that occur in this article and links it to the glossary for a better understanding of that concept in the context of Ayurveda and other topics.
1) Arka:
Arka refers to a distillate or an essence, a preparation elaborated using a distillation process in Ayurveda. In the study, the role of Arka, particularly Ardraka Arka, is examined for its therapeutic effects on Tamaka Shwasa, akin to bronchial asthma, using methods like Pana (oral intake) and Dhumapana (inhalation).
2) Tamaka:
Tamaka is part of the term 'Tamaka Shwasa,' referring to a type of chronic respiratory disorder in Ayurveda. Analogous to bronchial asthma, it is characterized by symptoms like breathlessness, wheezing, and coughing, often exacerbated by factors like cold air and exercise.
3) Ardraka:
Ardraka is Sanskrit for fresh ginger. In the study, Ardraka Arka, an aqueous ginger extract, is used for its therapeutic properties in managing asthma. Ginger's components like Gingerol are known for their anti-inflammatory, expectorant, and bronchodilator effects.
4) Bronchial asthma:
Bronchial asthma, a chronic inflammatory condition causing airway obstruction, is the modern medical term discussed in the study. It parallels Tamaka Shwasa in Ayurveda, allowing comparative research on the efficacy of traditional and modern treatments.
5) Kapha:
Kapha is one of the three fundamental doshas in Ayurveda, representing earth and water elements. In Tamaka Shwasa, vitiation of Kapha leads to mucus accumulation, causing obstruction and respiratory distress, addressed through therapies balancing Kapha.
6) Drug:
Drug in the context of the study refers to medicinal substances used for treatment. Ardraka (ginger) is the primary drug investigated, alongside others that have anti-inflammatory and bronchodilatory properties for managing Tamaka Shwasa or bronchial asthma.
7) Disease:
Disease refers to a disorder or ailment. Tamaka Shwasa is the disease of focus, analogous to bronchial asthma, involving symptoms like breathlessness and wheezing, managed through Ayurvedic treatments like Pana and Dhumapana with Ardraka Arka.
8) Pana:
Pana refers to the oral administration of medicinal preparations in Ayurveda. In the study, Ardraka Arka Pana was tested for its efficacy in managing Tamaka Shwasa, demonstrating significant improvements in symptoms like wheezing and respiratory rate.
9) Dhumapana (Dhuma-pana):
Dhumapana is the inhalation method of administering Ayurvedic medicines. The study investigates using Ardraka Arka through nebulization (a form of Dhumapana) for immediate relief of Tamaka Shwasa symptoms, showing promising results in reducing respiratory distress.
10) Dosha (Dosa):
Doshas are the three vital energies in Ayurveda (Vata, Pitta, and Kapha) that govern physiological and psychological processes. The study focuses on the vitiation of Vata and Kapha doshas in Tamaka Shwasa and their management through specific treatments.
11) Pujari:
Pujari refers to Dr. Sushma Pujari, the lead author of the study. She conducted the research on using Ardraka Arka for managing Tamaka Shwasa, contributing valuable insights into the potential of traditional Ayurvedic treatments for respiratory diseases.
12) Ayurveda (Ayus-veda):
Ayurveda is the ancient Indian system of medicine, emphasizing a holistic approach to health through balance among body, mind, and spirit. The study explores Ayurveda's application in treating Tamaka Shwasa, employing methods like Pana and Dhumapana with herbal preparations.
13) Ushna (Usna):
Ushna denotes heat. In the context of the study, Ardraka (ginger) is highlighted for its Ushna (hot) potency, which helps in alleviating Kapha and Vata doshas, crucial in the management of Tamaka Shwasa or bronchial asthma.
14) Vata:
Vata is one of the three doshas in Ayurveda, governing movement and communication. In Tamaka Shwasa, vitiated Vata combines with Kapha, leading to respiratory distress. Treatments aim to rebalance Vata to alleviate symptoms.
15) Prakasha (Prakasa):
Prakasha refers to 'Arka Prakasha,' a classical Ayurvedic text attributed to Ravana, detailing the preparation and therapeutic uses of Arka (distillates). The study utilizes insights from this text to manage Tamaka Shwasa with Ardraka Arka.
16) Vamana:
Vamana is a therapeutic emesis, one of the Panchakarma treatments in Ayurveda used to expel excess Kapha. It is recommended for Tamaka Shwasa when Kapha is predominant. The study contrasts this with other treatments like Pana and Dhumapana.
17) Srotas (Shrotas):
Srotas are channels or pathways in the body through which bodily substances circulate. Pranavaha Srotas, the respiratory channels, are impacted in Tamaka Shwasa, obstructed by Kapha and Vata dosha, leading to symptoms like breathlessness.
18) Lakshana (Laksana):
Lakshana refers to symptoms or signs of a disease. In Tamaka Shwasa, primary lakshanas include difficulty in breathing, wheezing, cough, and chest tightness. The study evaluates the efficacy of Ardraka Arka in alleviating these symptoms.
19) Varanasi (Varanashi):
Varanasi is the city where the Chaukhamba Sanskrit Series publishes important Ayurvedic texts. The study references works published by this series, such as 'Arka Prakasha,' a critical source for the preparation and use of medicinal distillates.
20) Vataghna (Vata-ghna):
Vataghna refers to substances or treatments that pacify Vata dosha. Ardraka (ginger) is described with Vataghna properties, making it suitable for managing the Vata component of Tamaka Shwasa, reducing symptoms like breathlessness and wheezing.
21) Family:
Family history is considered a risk factor for bronchial asthma, as indicated in the study. The genetic predisposition may influence the occurrence and severity of Tamaka Shwasa, necessitating tailored treatment strategies in Ayurveda.
22) India:
India is the origin of Ayurveda and the country where the study was conducted. It is also noted that India has a high prevalence of asthma, highlighting the relevance of exploring effective traditional treatments like Ardraka Arka for managing the condition.
23) Inflammation:
Inflammation is a key pathological feature in bronchial asthma, leading to airway narrowing and respiratory distress. The study investigates Ardraka's anti-inflammatory properties, attributing its effectiveness in managing Tamaka Shwasa to these properties.
24) Karnataka:
Karnataka is the state in India where the study was conducted at Sree Kalabyraveshwara Swamy Ayurvedic Medical College in Bangalore. The institution provided the clinical setting for researching the management of Tamaka Shwasa with traditional methods.
25) Shodhana (Sodhana):
Shodhana refers to cleansing or detoxifying processes in Ayurveda, such as Vamana and Virechana, used to remove excessive doshas. The study focuses on the alternative use of Ardraka Arka via Pana and Dhumapana, routes that provide symptomatic relief for Tamaka Shwasa.
26) Pradhana:
Pradhana means primary or chief. In the context of symptoms ('Pradhana lakshana'), it refers to primary symptoms of Tamaka Shwasa such as difficulty in breathing and wheezing. The study discusses how these symptoms are targeted through Ayurvedic treatments.
27) Medicine:
Medicine in the context of the study refers to both modern and traditional treatments for diseases like bronchial asthma. It evaluates the effectiveness of Ayurvedic medicine, specifically Ardraka Arka, compared to conventional therapies.
28) Samana (Shamana):
Shamana denotes palliative or pacifying treatments in Ayurveda, which aim to balance doshas without expelling them. The study includes Shamana methods such as the oral and inhalation use of Ardraka Arka to manage symptoms of Tamaka Shwasa.
29) Kasa (Kasha):
Kasa is a term for cough in Ayurveda. In Tamaka Shwasa, Kasa is one of the primary symptoms. The study examines how Ardraka Arka helps reduce coughing and promotes easier breathing in patients with bronchial asthma.
30) Zingiber officinale:
Zingiber officinale is the botanical name for ginger, the key ingredient in Ardraka Arka. The study explores its therapeutic properties such as anti-inflammatory, expectorant, and bronchodilator effects, beneficial for managing Tamaka Shwasa.
31) Vatadosha (Vatadosa, Vata-dosha):
Vata-dosha is one of the three fundamental energies in Ayurveda governing movement and communication. In Tamaka Shwasa, the imbalance of Vata along with Kapha contributes to respiratory distress, which is targeted by treatments like Ardraka Arka.
32) Indradeva:
Indradeva Tripathi is the scholar who provided commentary for 'Arka Prakasha,' a critical text on medicinal distillates. The study references this work for preparing Ardraka Arka and understanding its benefits in treating Tamaka Shwasa.
33) Agnivesha (Agnivesa, Agni-vesha):
Agnivesha is the disciple of sage Punarvasu Atreya, who composed the Charaka Samhita, an authoritative Ayurvedic text. The study draws upon this text for traditional insights and therapeutic approaches for managing Tamaka Shwasa with Ardraka Arka.
34) Education:
Education here refers to the educational background of study participants. Data on education levels (illiterate, school/PUC, graduates, post-graduates) were collected to ensure a diverse and representative sample for evaluating the effectiveness of Ardraka Arka treatments.
35) Vitiation (Vitiated):
Vitiation denotes the imbalance or disturbance of doshas in Ayurveda. In the case of Tamaka Shwasa, the vitiation of Kapha and Vata doshas results in obstructed airways and respiratory issues, addressed through treatments like Ardraka Arka Pana and Dhumapana.
36) Sanskrit:
Sanskrit is the classical language in which most Ayurvedic texts are written. 'Arka Prakasha' and 'Charaka Samhita,' key references for the study on Tamaka Shwasa, are composed in Sanskrit, providing traditional wisdom on medicinal practices.
37) Samhita:
Samhita refers to collections of classical Ayurvedic texts, such as Charaka Samhita. These texts provide foundational knowledge on Ayurvedic principles and treatments, including those for respiratory conditions like Tamaka Shwasa, explored in the study.
38) Bhedana:
Bhedana is a property that denotes separating or breaking down. In the study, Ardraka (ginger) is attributed with Bhedana karma, helping to break down and expel obstructive mucus in the airways, facilitating respiration in patients with Tamaka Shwasa.
39) Tarpana:
Tarpana refers to nourishing treatments in Ayurveda. For managing Tamaka Shwasa, especially in weakened patients, Tarpana therapy may include nourishing substances to strengthen the body and balance doshas, complementing treatments like Ardraka Arka.
40) Sevana:
Sevana means consumption or exposure. In the study, triggers for Tamaka Shwasa like 'Sevana of dust, smoke, wind' are discussed. Avoiding these triggers is part of the preventive approach in Ayurveda alongside therapeutic interventions like Ardraka Arka.
41) Vaidya:
Vaidya means a practitioner or doctor of Ayurveda. In the study, Vaidyas like the authors are involved in investigating traditional remedies such as Ardraka Arka for their efficacy in managing conditions like Tamaka Shwasa, contributing to holistic health care.
42) Mishra (Misra):
Mishra refers to Dr. Baidyanath Mishra, one of the authors of the study. He is the Deputy Dean of PG Studies at Sree Kalabyraveshwara Swamy Ayurvedic Medical College and contributed to researching the use of Ardraka Arka in managing Tamaka Shwasa.
43) Sthana:
Sthana means chapter or section in textual context. In Ayurveda, it also refers to bodily regions or systems. The study cites 'Chikitsa Sthana' from Charaka Samhita, where treatment protocols for conditions like Tamaka Shwasa are detailed.
44) Nidana:
Nidana refers to the causative factors or diagnosis of a disease in Ayurveda. Understanding Nidana of Tamaka Shwasa, including triggers and underlying imbalances, is crucial for effective treatment, including therapies like Ardraka Arka Pana.
45) Vyadhin (Vyadhi):
Vyadhi means disease or illness. The study focuses on Tamaka Shwasa as a vyadhi analogous to bronchial asthma. Ayurvedic treatments aim to manage vyadhi by addressing underlying dosha imbalances and symptoms through remedies like Ardraka Arka.
46) Powder:
Powder refers to the form of some Ayurvedic medicines. While the study focuses on Arka (distillates) for Tamaka Shwasa, other remedies may come in powder form, which can be administered differently depending on the treatment protocol.
47) Hikka:
Hikka refers to hiccups in Ayurveda, but it is also mentioned in the context of respiratory ailments. 'Hikka Shwasa Adhyaya' in Charaka Samhita outlines treatments for respiratory conditions, including Tamaka Shwasa, relevant to the study's investigation.
48) Hindi (Himdi):
Hindi is the modern Indian language in which commentaries like Dr. Indradeva Tripathi's on 'Arka Prakasha' are written, making classical Ayurvedic texts accessible to contemporary practitioners and aiding the study's research on Ardraka Arka.
49) Rasa (Rasha):
Rasa means taste, one of the key attributes of Ayurvedic substances that influence their therapeutic effect. Ardraka (ginger) is described with a katu (pungent) rasa, which contributes to its efficacy in managing Kapha and Vata dosha imbalances in Tamaka Shwasa.
50) Vayu:
Vayu is another term for air or wind, often associated with Vata dosha in Ayurveda. In Tamaka Shwasa, improper movement of Vayu due to obstructions caused by Kapha leads to respiratory issues. Treatments aim to restore balanced Vayu movement.
51) Goud:
Goud refers to Dr. Kiran M. Goud, a co-author of the study. Serving as the Principal & Professor at Sree Kalabyraveshwara Swamy Ayurvedic Medical College, he contributed to investigating Ardraka Arka's role in managing Tamaka Shwasa.
52) Pain:
Pain is a common symptom that can accompany respiratory distress in Tamaka Shwasa. While the primary focus is on breathlessness and wheezing, Ayurvedic treatments like Ardraka Arka aim to alleviate associated symptoms, potentially including pain.
53) New Delhi:
New Delhi is the capital of India and where Eastern Publishers are located, who published sources like 'Herbal Drugs Industry,' referenced in the study. The city is a hub for Ayurvedic research and publication, supporting traditional medicine studies.
54) Shalakyatantra (Salakyatantra, Shalakya-tantra, Shalakyatamtra):
Shalakya-tantra is a branch of Ayurveda dealing with diseases of the head and neck, including respiratory conditions. One of the study authors, Dr. Mamatha K.V., is associated with this department, contributing expertise to research on managing Tamaka Shwasa.
55) Antibiotic (Antibacterial):
Anti-bacterial properties are significant in treatments for respiratory conditions. Ardraka (ginger) contains compounds with anti-bacterial effects, making it effective in reducing infections that might exacerbate Tamaka Shwasa symptoms.
56) Shringavera (Srngavera, Shringa-vera, Shrimgavera):
Shringavera is a Sanskrit synonym for ginger (Ardraka). The study focuses on Ardraka Arka, utilizing ginger's medicinal properties, such as anti-inflammatory and expectorant effects, to manage symptoms of Tamaka Shwasa or bronchial asthma.
57) Agnimandya (Agni-mandya, Agnimamdya):
Agnimandya refers to impaired digestive fire (Agni), a key factor in Ayurvedic pathology. In the context of Tamaka Shwasa, it contributes to the production of Ama (toxins) and dosha imbalance, managed through treatments like Ardraka Arka that boost Agni.
58) Katubhadra (Katu-bhadra):
Katubhadra is another synonym for ginger in Ayurveda. The study evaluates the effects of Ardraka Arka, an extraction of ginger, which possesses properties beneficial for managing respiratory conditions like Tamaka Shwasa due to its Kapha-Vata balancing and heating qualities.
59) Discussion:
Discussion involves interpreting the study's results, comparing them with existing knowledge, and proposing practical applications. The study discusses the effectiveness of Ardraka Arka administered as Pana and Dhumapana in managing Tamaka Shwasa symptoms.
60) Drowsiness:
Drowsiness is listed among the adverse effects of conventional asthma medication, highlighting the need for safer alternatives. The study suggests Ardraka Arka, which aims to manage Tamaka Shwasa without such side effects, improving patients' quality of life.
61) Hridroga (Hrdroga, Hrid-roga):
Hridroga refers to heart diseases. Although the study focuses on Tamaka Shwasa, the holistic approach of Ayurveda addresses overall health including Hridroga, as systemic conditions often influence respiratory health, with treatments like Ardraka Arka having widespread benefits.
62) Atyayika:
Atyayika means emergency or critical. The study underscores that severe Tamaka Shwasa is an atyayika condition, requiring prompt treatment. Ardraka Arka nebulization is presented as an effective emergency intervention for acute respiratory distress.
63) Vatahara (Vata-ahara):
Vatahara denotes substances or treatments that alleviate Vata dosha imbalance. Ardraka (ginger) is noted for its Vatahara properties, making it effective in managing Tamaka Shwasa, where Vata, along with Kapha, causes respiratory distress.
64) Madhura:
Madhura refers to sweetness, one of the six tastes in Ayurveda. It also denotes the post-digestive effect (vipaka) of a substance. Ardraka (ginger), while having a katu rasa (pungent taste), exhibits madhura vipaka, balancing its overall effect and making it beneficial for Tamaka Shwasa.
65) Avarana:
Avarana refers to obstruction in Ayurvedic terms, often by Kapha. In the study, Tamaka Shwasa involves Kapha Avarana leading to Vata obstruction in respiratory channels. Ardraka Arka helps clear these obstructions, facilitating easier breathing.
66) Muhurta:
Muhurta is a unit of time, roughly equivalent to 48 minutes. The preparation of Ardraka Arka involves heating the ginger-water mixture for one Muhurta, ensuring optimal extraction of therapeutic compounds for treating Tamaka Shwasa.
67) Vyayama:
Vyayama means exercise. Excessive or improper exercise can trigger or worsen Tamaka Shwasa. Ayurvedic treatment plans, including remedies like Ardraka Arka, consider patients' physical activity levels to avoid exacerbation and promote balanced health.
[Note: The above list is limited to 75. Total glossary definitions available: 104]