Abstract

THERAPEUTIC POTENTIAL OF KANAKASAVA IN PURVIEW OF BRONCHIAL ASTHMA: A REVIEW

Laxmi Bhusal*, Chaitra Timmanna Hegde, Anupam Srivastava, Thakur Rakesh Singh

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Abstract

Kanakasava (KA) is a well-known classical Ayurvedic polyherbal formulation extensively utilized in the treatment of respiratory conditions, especially Tamak Shwasa (Bronchial Asthma). It is prepared through Sandhana Kalpana, a traditional method of fermentation that enhances the stability and bioavailability of its herbal components. Data for this review were collected from classical Ayurvedic texts, contemporary textbooks, and peer-reviewed journals accessed via PubMed, Google Scholar, Scopus, and other academic databases. This review seeks to consolidate and evaluate information on KA from classical Ayurvedic literature, alongside modern scientific studies that support the therapeutic potential of both its individual ingredients and the complete formulation. A comprehensive review of Ayurvedic databases and classical texts was carried out to identify and assess various versions of KA. The same formulation was consistently found in six authoritative Ayurvedic treatises, with minor variations. The constituent herbs of KA are known for their diverse pharmacological properties, which aid in alleviating respiratory disorders and boosting compromised immunity. Evidence from both preclinical and clinical research further supports its efficacy in managing respiratory diseases, particularly Bronchial Asthma.

Keywords: Bronchial asthma, Kanakasava, Fermentation, Ayurveda, Herbal Pharmacology.