Abstract

THE IMPACT OF SOME INDIAN MEDICINAL PLANTS IN THE MANAGEMENT OF SHVASA ROGA (DYSPNOEA)

Prabhat Kumar Srivastava*, Smriti Srivastava, Dr. Anil Kumar Singh, Dr. Kamal Nayan Dwivedi

Abstract

There are many fatal diseases described in Ayurveda but none of them is as deadly as shvasa (Dyspnoea) which kills the patient instantaneously. It is said to be present definitely at the time of birth as well as death. Almost every person suffers with this disease at some time in their life. It is the disease of pranavaha srotasa (respiratory channels) which occurs due to obstruction caused by vata and kapha. In Ayurveda, this disease is diagnosed and managed according to the systematic symptoms described. Treatment with Ayurvedic drugs cure the disease and potentiate the body’s immune system. There are various Indian medicinal plants used for prevention and treatment of this disease. Some of them act by drying up the excess kapha (mucous) secretions (due to their ushna veerya i.e. hot potency) present in the respiratory channels while others act by their bronchodilator and expectorant action. This article reviews the references and usefulness of such type of plants mentioned especially in Indian system of medicine.

Keywords: Shvasa, Dyspnoea, Ayurveda, Shati, Pippali, Shunthi.