Article: ROLE OF NIDANA PARIVARJANA IN TAMAKA SHWASA WITH SPECIAL REFERENCE TO AMA

Article Category: Review articles

DOI: 10.7897/2277-4343.165186

Pages: 141-143

Author: Fareeda Seraj Ahmed Khan *, Sandeep Kale, Santosh Girbide

Abstract: Bronchial asthma is a chronic respiratory disease characterized by recurring episodes of wheezing, coughing and breathlessness. Inflammation and airway hyperresponsiveness lead to airflow limitation which can be triggered by allergens, irritants, or respiratory infections. Inhaled corticosteroids, bronchodilators, avoiding triggers and lifestyle modifications are some treatment modalities. In Ayurveda, bronchial asthma is correlated with Tamaka Shwas, a disease caused by imbalance of Kapha and Vata doshas. Incidence of Tamak Shwas has increased due to air pollution, pollen, mold, animal dander etc., but this is not the only cause. Ayurvedic texts identify Ama as a fundamental cause of disease. Tamak Shwas, an Ayurvedic condition, parallels bronchial asthma in its symptoms and characteristics. In pathogenesis of Tamak shwas, Ama plays an important role, it is considered as a byproduct of impaired digestion and metabolism produced by irregular dietary habits like Adhyashan (overeating), Vishamashan (irregular or inappropriate eating habits) and impairment of digestive fire. Ama is a substance which remains uncooked, unripe and undigested. It signifies impaired metabolism due to Agnimndya (weakened digestive fire). Ama vitiates doshas and disturbs the dhatu samya avastha in body and leads to manifestation of many diseases like Amavata, Grahni, Tamaka Shwasa etc. Nidan parivarjan is one of the diseases important concepts in Ayurveda. It is in fact considered as the first line of treatment. Sushruta and Charaka both highlight importance of Nidan Parivarjan in case of Tamak Shwas can play great role in preventing its recurrence. It is important to educate the patient to avoid the causes which lead to formation of Ama. If the factors which produce Ama controlled then frequency of attack would be lower, making patients life better.

Keyword: Shwas, Asthma, Ama, Nidana Parivarjan