Bronchiectasis is an abnormal dilatation of the proximal and
medium sized bronchi or airways, resulting in a chronic obstructive
pulmonary lung disease manifested by airways that are inflamed and
easily collapsible. Breathlessness, impaired clearance of lung
secretions often with disabling cough, and hemoptysis, are common
symptoms of this condition. Infections, bronchial obstruction,
hereditary disorders and auto-immune diseases are usually responsible
for causing bronchiectasis.
The Ayurvedic treatment of
bronchiectasis focuses on repairing the damage done, and maintaining
optimum function of the lungs. Medicines like Pippali (Piper longum),
Yashtimadhuk (Glycerrhiza glabra), Behada (Terminalia bellerica), Tulsi
(Ocimum sanctum), Pushkarmool (Inula racemosa), Kantakari (Solanum
surattense), Som (Ephedra gerardiana) and Bharangi (Clerodendrum
serratum) are used to clear excessive secretions from the lungs.
Pushkarmool,
Ras-Sindur and Shrung-Bhasma are used in high doses along with
Yashti-Madhuk and Pippali to reduce inflammation and scarring resulting
from chronic infections. Medicines like Gokshur (Tribulus terrestris),
Amalaki (Emblica officinalis) and Guduchi (Tinospora cordifolia) also
help to reduce scarring and inflammation in the lung tissue. Repeated
courses of Yashtimadhuk and Pippali in high doses are given to normalize
the mucous membrane inside the airways and lungs.
As per the
Ayurvedic texts, the lung tissue is predominantly made up of the 'Rakta'
dhatu (tissue). Therefore, all medicines acting on the rakta dhatu are
also believed to be beneficial in treating lung disease. These include
medicines like Kutaj (Holharrhina antidysentrica), Patol (Tricosanthe
dioica), Kutki (Picrorrhiza kurroa), Saariva (Hemidesmus indicus), Patha
( Cissampelos pareira) and Musta (Cyperus rotundus).
Long term
courses of Laghu-Malini-Vasant, Madhu-Malini-Vasant and
Suvarna-Malini-Vasant, combined with Yashtimadhuk and Pippali are given
as tonics to improve the overall condition of the lungs. Other medicines
like Chyavanprash can also be used for this purpose.By
Abdulmubeen Mundewadi
