How We Support Lung Health? – Ayurveda for Stronger, Healthier Lungs

Abstract

The lungs are vital organs constantly exposed to environmental pollutants through the air we breathe. These pollutants can cause significant damage to lung tissues, leading to various respiratory disorders. The lungs’ primary role is gas exchange, which occurs in the alveoli, where oxygen is absorbed, and carbon dioxide is expelled. Lung diseases, if left untreated, can be fatal. Major contributing factors include pollution, smoking, viruses, and inflammation. Once lung tissue is damaged, it cannot regenerate. Therefore, protecting and maintaining lung health is essential in today’s increasingly polluted world.

Introduction

Lungs are essential organs responsible for respiration, without which life is not possible. Structurally, they are soft, spongy, pinkish-grey organs divided into lobes: the right lung has three lobes and the left has two. The right lung is slightly larger. The lungs support multiple systems, including the circulatory, nervous, and lymphatic systems.

Their primary functions include

1. Gas Exchange: Inhaled oxygen enters the lungs and diffuses into the blood, while carbon dioxide from the blood is exhaled.
2. Filtering: Mucus traps dust, germs, and harmful substances, which are expelled through coughing or sneezing.
3. Supporting the Sense of Smell: The lungs assist in delivering inhaled air to olfactory receptors.

Common Lung Diseases

1. Asthma
2. Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD)
3. Lung cancer
4. Pneumonia
5. Bronchial inflammation

Symptoms Of Lung Diseases

1. Coughing
2. Wheezing
3. Shortness of breath
4. Tiredness and fatigue
5. Chest tightness
6. Congestion
7. Unexplained weight loss
8. Low energy
9. Swelling in ankles, feet, and hands
10. Recurrent lung infections
11. Chest pain

Diagnosis And Investigation

1. Imaging Tests: X-ray, CT scan, MRI, ECG, Ultrasound
2. Physical Examination: Listening for wheezing or crackling sounds
3. Lung Function Tests: Spirometry, LFTs (Lung Function Tests), and diffusion tests

Treatment Options

Treatment depends on the underlying cause and symptoms

1. Steroids to reduce inflammation
2. Bronchodilators to open airways
3. Antibiotics to treat infections
4. Oxygen therapy to improve oxygen levels
5. Vaccinations to prevent infections

How To Support Lung Health

1. Avoid Harmful Substances

1. Refrain from smoking
2. Minimize exposure to dust, pollution, and harmful gases

2. Maintain a Healthy Diet

1. Eat lung-supportive foods like beets, pumpkin, and green leafy vegetables
2. Avoid processed, oily, and junk food

3. Exercise Regularly

1. Aerobic activities like walking, running, and jumping
2. Daily yoga and pranayama for at least 15 minutes

4. Practice Good Hygiene

1. Wash hands regularly
2. Use hand sanitizers to reduce infection risk

5. Get Vaccinated

1. To protect against flu and respiratory viruses

6. Increase Lung Capacity

1. Practice deep breathing, inhalation and exhalation exercises

Environmental Impact On Lung Health

Global warming and pollution significantly affect respiratory health. Contributing factors include:

1. Deforestation: Loss of carbon sinks
2. Fossil fuel burning: CO₂ emissions
3. Agriculture and land-use changes
4. Industrial processes: Emissions of methane and nitrous oxide
5. Population growth: Increased pollution

Effects

1. Extreme weather events
2. Rising sea levels
3. Loss of biodiversity
4. Increased respiratory illnesses

Lifestyle Modifications For Lung Health

1. Improve indoor air quality with air purifiers and ventilation
2. Keep homes and vehicles smoke-free
3. Consume a diet rich in Omega-3, Vitamin D, and antioxidants
4. Educate the community about pollution and its impact
5. Share knowledge with family and friends
   

Global Index For Lung Health

1. Public Health: Identifying intervention areas
2. Policy Making: Supporting lung health strategies
3. Research: Promoting studies on respiratory health
4. Advocacy: Raising awareness
5. Healthcare Planning: Enhancing lung health resources

Ayurvedic Perspective On Lung Health

Ayurveda views on lung disease as a result of imbalanced Vata and Kapha doshas. Disorders like asthma, bronchitis, and COPD are linked to these imbalances. Ayurvedic treatment includes herbal remedies, lifestyle changes, and breathing practices.

Ayurvedic Herbs Supporting Lung Health

1. Tulsi, Mulethi, Vasaka: Expectorants that ease congestion and support airflow
2. Turmeric, Ginger, Black Pepper: Anti-inflammatory and immune-boosting properties

Breathing Practices

1. Pranayama (Anulom Vilom, Kapalbhati): Improves respiratory efficiency and detoxifies lungs

Dietary Practices

1. Warm, nourishing food; avoid cold and processed food
2. Include beneficial spices to support lung function

Lung Detoxification in Ayurveda

1. Panchakarma therapies help remove toxins
2. Herbal formulations reduce mucus and inflammation

Herbal Remedies For Lung Health By Planet Ayurveda

Planet Ayurveda is a renowned herbal company that follows the principles of ancient Ayurveda. It is GMP (Good Manufacturing Practices) and USDA organic certified, ensuring quality, purity, and authenticity. Their formulations are developed by expert Ayurvedic doctors using high-quality herbs. These remedies are 100% vegetarian, free from chemicals, preservatives, or fillers, and safe for long-term use without side effects. To support respiratory wellness, Planet Ayurveda has developed the Respi-Support Combo Pack, a combination of herbal formulations that work synergistically to enhance lung health clear congestion, reduce inflammation, and boost immunity. Here’s a detailed look at each product in the pack

Product Description

1. Anu Tailam

Anu Tailam is an ayurvedic medicated oil prepared using Til Taila (Sesame Oil), Jivanti (Leptadenia reticulata), Devadaru (Cedrus deodara) etc  and is used in various purposes like in respiratory system disorders like common cold,cough and throat irritation. Anu Tailam penetrates the nasal mucosa and helps in removing accumulated toxins, allergens, and pollutants from the respiratory tract. It also strengthens the nasal tissues and supports the upper respiratory system.

Dosage: 2 drops in each nostril once daily.

2. Shwas Ambu Tea

This is in the form of tea which is made up of natural herbal ingredients like Tulsi (Ocimum sanctum), Lavanga (Syzygium aromaticum),and many others. This herbal tea combines expectorant and anti-inflammatory herbs that soothe the airways and help in reducing irritation caused by allergens and infections. Its warming properties also aid digestion, which is crucial in Ayurveda for respiratory health.

Dosage: Once or twice with warm water twice daily.

3. Giloy Ghan Vati

This is in the form of a tablet made up of very effective standardised extract of giloy (Tinospora cordifolia) herb. Giloy is a well-known Rasayana herb in Ayurveda that rejuvenates and balances the body. It particularly enhances immune response, reduces inflammation in the lungs, and helps prevent recurrent respiratory illnesses.

Dosage: 2 tablets with warm water twice daily.

4. Broncho Plan syrup

Broncho Plan is in the form of syrup and the best ayurvedic syrup prepared using Tulsi (Ocimum sanctum), Vasa (Adhatoda vasica), Pippali (Piper longum) etc for respiratory disorders. This syrup is formulated using mucolytic and bronchodilator herbs that loosen phlegm, calm allergic responses, and provide relief from both dry and productive cough. It’s particularly helpful in managing asthma, bronchitis, and seasonal respiratory flare-ups.

Dosage: 2 tsp twice a day.

5. Tulsi Capsules

This is in the form of capsules prepared with a single standardised extract of herb tulsi (Holy basil). Tulsi is very effective in reducing stress, providing stamina, lowers cholesterol and eliminates toxins and purities from the body. It also helps in clearing out all the mucus from the respiratory tract.

Dosage: 1 capsule with warm water twice daily.

Conclusion

Lung health is essential for overall well-being. Modern lifestyle, pollution, and environmental factors pose significant threats to respiratory health. This article outlines both conventional and Ayurvedic approaches to support and protect the lungs. Planet Ayurveda’s Respi-Support Combo Pack provides natural, effective remedies based on ancient Ayurvedic wisdom. Through proper lifestyle changes, diet, exercises, and herbal support, we can maintain strong and healthy lungs.