ABSTRACT

Respiratory disorders, notably bronchial asthma, represent a pressing global health concern, impacting approximately 300 million people worldwide, with 15-20 million cases in India alone. Urban prevalence surpasses rural rates due to pollution, smoke, and lifestyle factors, as reported by the World Health Organization. Modern treatments, including bronchodilators, corticosteroids, and anticholinergics, provide symptomatic relief but often result in long-term side effects and dose dependency. Ayurveda, a traditional Indian medical system, describes Tamaka Shwasa—a condition closely resembling bronchial asthma—characterized by dyspnea, wheezing, cough, and chest tightness, attributed to vitiated Vata and Kapha doshas obstructing the Pranavaha Srotas (respiratory channels). This literary review examines Tamaka Shwasa through classical Ayurvedic texts like Charaka Samhita and Sushruta Samhita, comparing its etiology, pathogenesis, and management with bronchial asthma. Causative factors (Nidana) such as dust, cold foods, and excessive exercise align with modern triggers like allergens and infections. Ayurvedic management emphasizes Nidana Parivarjana (trigger avoidance), Shodhana (purification therapies like Vamana), and Shamana (palliative care), complemented by Brimhana and Rasayana for immunity enhancement. In contrast, contemporary approaches focus on pharmacological intervention. This study highlights the integrative potential of combining Ayurveda’s holistic preventive strategies with modern acute care to address bronchial asthma’s chronicity and reduce reliance on drugs with adverse effects. Further clinical validation is needed to standardize these approaches, offering a promising framework for comprehensive respiratory care. Keywords: Bronchial Asthma, Tamaka Shwasa, Ayurveda, Nidana, Pathogenesis, Shodhana, Shamana, Integrative Medicine