COPD is an umbrella term for chronic lung diseases such as emphysema and chronic bronchitis. These conditions are considered to be very difficult to treat and in most cases, completely irreversible. However, in Ayurvedic medicine, there are far fewer limitations when it comes to treatment. Research of Ayurvedic treatment of COPD has yielded positive outcomes suggesting that Ayurveda may be the very solution that millions of COPD patients seek.
In Ayurvedic medicine, various bronchodilator, mucolytic, anti-inflammatory, and anti-microbial herbs are minerals are used to manage this condition. Additionally, Ayurveda combines the use of herbs, minerals, and diet along with Yoga and Pranayama to manage such conditions.
In this article, I go over a few of the common evidence-based remedies and breathing exercises that have been found to have significant benefits in COPD.
Remedies
Vasa (Adhatoda Vasica)
This medicinal plant is used clinically in the treatment of a wide range of pulmonary diseases including Asthma and Bronchitis. The research suggests that Vasa is a potent bronchodilator and expectorant, making it a promising option in the treatment of COPD. In one comparative study, a formula containing Vasa was compared to an inhaled formula – Vasa not only outperformed the inhaled formula but also improved all major symptoms of the condition (1).
Unfortunately, the formula used in the research study is not easily available outside of India. However, a similar formula is “Bronchial Support“.
Eucalyptol (Eucalyptus Oil)
Eucalyptus oil is a popular remedy for respiratory conditions such as Asthma and Acute bronchitis. This is due to the fact that is contains a broncho-dilating compound known as Eucalyptol.
In clinical trials, Eucalyptol supplementation in patients with COPD resulted in reduced exacerbations, dyspnea and improved lung function and health status (2).
Tualang Honey
Honey is known for its mucolytic and antimicrobial properties, making it a potent remedy for upper respiratory tract infections. In multiple studies, honey has been found to greatly improve the symptoms of coughs and bronchitis.
Its mucolytic properties helps thin out and reduce mucus and phlegm while its antimicrobial properties help fight off infections.
In the case of COPD, the use of Tualang Honey specifically, has been found to improve quality of life (3).
Pelargonium Sidoides 
Also known as South African Geranium, this plant has proven (in clinical trials) to be highly effective in treating multiple pulmonary conditions including Asthma, the Common Cold and COPD.
In a clinical trial, the supplementation of Pelargonium Sidoides resulted in improved quality of life, fewer exacerbations, less need for antibiotics, improved patient satisfaction and a reduction in the number of days that patients felt unable to work (4).
Yoga & Pranayama
A group of yoga breathing exercises known as Pranayama has come to light in recent times due to its beneficial effects in the treatment of multiple chronic illnesses. These exercises have been found useful in COPD, Hypertension, Anxiety, Depression, and several other diseases.
In one study, Yoga therapy with an emphasis on Pranayama demonstrated an improvement in functional performance and a decrease in dyspnea-related distress in patients with COPD (5).
Ayurveda and Yoga is by far the most effective route when treating chronic diseases and should definitely be considered by patients suffering from COPD. In my experience, patients experience drastic improvement within as little as 1 week on treatment.
To learn how to do Yoga breathing (pranayama) correctly, join my one-on-one classes.
To book an Ayurvedic consultation with me, click here
(Always use medicinal herbs under the supervision of a doctor)
For more information contact me at doctornishal@gmail.com
by Dr. Nishal R.
Copyright © 2017
References:
1. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/19249998
2. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/28714735
3. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3215321/
4. https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0954611113000607
5. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/19624838/
6. https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S1658361217300963