Bronchiectasis is a chronic respiratory condition characterized by the permanent dilation and inflammation of the bronchi, the airways in the lungs. It is associated with excessive mucus production, leading to reduced airflow and recurrent infections. While severe infections like pneumonia and tuberculosis were once the predominant causes of bronchiectasis, the introduction of antibiotics was expected to decrease its incidence. However, the number of patients with bronchiectasis has actually risen, posing a growing burden on global healthcare systems.
Recurrent infections play a significant role in the development of bronchiectasis, but various lung diseases can also contribute to its onset through different mechanisms. Once established, bronchiectasis leads to recurrent airway infections caused by bacteria and fungi, resulting in symptoms such as chronic cough, sputum production, weight loss, and respiratory compromise.
The respiratory tract, comprising the trachea, bronchi, bronchioles, and alveoli, is responsible for delivering oxygen from the upper respiratory tract to the lower respiratory tract, where gas exchange occurs. The bronchi are lined with epithelial cells that form a physical barrier against infections. The respiratory tract's defense mechanisms include tight cellular junctions, mucus production by goblet cells to trap foreign substances, the mucociliary apparatus that sweeps and transports these substances out of the respiratory tract, antimicrobial peptides, cough reflex, antibodies (IgA), and immune cells like neutrophils and macrophages.
Ayurvedic medicine offers several formulations that are commonly used for the treatment of bronchitis. These medicines are primarily administered internally. Here are some examples:
Thalisadi Choorna: Thalisadi Choorna is a herbal powder formulation that contains ingredients like Talisa (Abies webbiana), Twak (Cinnamomum verum), Ela (Elettaria cardamomum), and Vamshalochana (Bambusa bambos). It is known to have bronchodilatory and expectorant properties, helping to alleviate cough and congestion associated with bronchitis.
Haridra Khanda: Haridra Khanda is a herbal formulation that includes Haridra (Curcuma longa), Guduchi (Tinospora cordifolia), and Madhu (honey) as key ingredients. It possesses anti-inflammatory, immunomodulatory, and antioxidant properties. It can help reduce inflammation in the bronchial airways and support the body's immune response.
Kantakari Ghrutha: Kantakari Ghrutha is a medicated ghee preparation that contains Kantakari (Solanum xanthocarpum) as a primary ingredient. It is known for its bronchodilatory and expectorant actions, aiding in the management of bronchitis symptoms. It helps to clear the respiratory passages and reduce cough.
Datri Loha: Datri Loha is an Ayurvedic iron-based formulation that contains ingredients like Amalaki (Emblica officinalis) and Loha Bhasma (iron calx). It is beneficial in respiratory conditions like bronchitis due to its immunomodulatory properties. It helps strengthen the immune system and improves lung function.
Kanakasava: Kanakasava is a herbal liquid preparation that contains ingredients like Kanaka (Datura metel), Pushkara (Inula racemosa), and Vasaka (Adhatoda vasica). It acts as an expectorant and bronchodilator, promoting the expulsion of mucus and easing breathing difficulties.
Tribhuvana Keerthi Rasa: Tribhuvana Keerthi Rasa is an Ayurvedic herbo-mineral formulation. It contains ingredients like Abhraka Bhasma (mica calx), Tamra Bhasma (copper calx), and Shuddha Haratala (purified orpiment). It is used in the treatment of respiratory disorders, including bronchitis, to relieve cough, congestion, and improve lung function.
Dashamoola Katuthrayam Kashaya: Dashamoola Katuthrayam Kashaya is an herbal decoction prepared from the combination of Dashamoola (a blend of ten roots) and Katuthraya (three pungent herbs). It possesses anti-inflammatory, bronchodilatory, and expectorant properties, making it effective in managing bronchitis symptoms.