Make Ayurveda a protective shield against pollution, a doctor gives special advice on keeping the heart and lungs healthy.

News Topical, Digital Desk : To avoid the effects of air pollution, people are installing expensive air purifiers and indoor plants indoors, but these are only superficial measures, with short-term effects. Ayurveda offers lasting solutions that can keep your lungs and heart healthy. Air is our lifeblood. It nourishes our bodies, but what can be done when the air itself becomes toxic? Let's take a look at some effective Ayurvedic remedies to protect the respiratory system.

Ayurvedic Cleansing (Panchakarma) 

Pollution causes toxins to accumulate in the body, which need to be eliminated periodically. Therefore, Panchakarma is recommended during winter. Panchakarma is an Ayurvedic detoxification treatment that helps remove toxins from the body.

Vamana (vomiting):  Helps remove excess mucus and pollutants from the respiratory tract. 

Virechana: This process helps in clearing toxins from the body and reducing inflammation.

Steam Swedana (Herbal Therapy): It helps in opening the airways and phlegm. 

Basti (Enema Therapy): This is a herbal enema procedure that cleanses the colon and removes toxins from the intestines.

nasal therapy

Nasya Chikitsa acts as a shield against airborne pollutants. This is an Ayurvedic treatment that involves instilling medicated oils into the nose. This helps clear the nasal passages. You can also use ghee if you prefer. Place two or three drops of oil into your nostrils every morning. Breathe deeply to allow the oil to penetrate the nasal passages. Avoid going outside immediately after instilling.

Ayurvedic Herbs

Ayurvedic herbs help maintain a healthy lifestyle. For example, basil reduces inflammation and clears the airways. Licorice soothes the throat. Turmeric is beneficial due to its curcumin content. Amla is rich in vitamin C, which boosts immunity and prevents respiratory infections. Honey helps clear mucus from the lungs and soothes coughs.

Healthy Diet Inhaling steam from hot water clears both the throat and nose. Dust and smoke cause sore throat. Gargling with salt in hot water clears the throat. Make herbal tea by adding ginger, basil, turmeric and honey; it contains anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Eat fruits rich in Vitamin C like orange, amla, kiwi and guava. Drinking turmeric milk at night reduces inflammation in the body and increases immunity.

Dr. Medha Kulkarni (Professor, Swasthvrit, All India Institute of Ayurveda, Delhi) explains that new rice and potatoes begin to arrive in this season. Consuming these strengthens the digestive system. Eating sesame seeds, gum, milk, and cheese during the winter season warms the body and boosts immunity. Cinnamon, ginger, fenugreek, and warm spices enhance anti-inflammatory properties. Green leafy vegetables like spinach, bathua, and saag should be consumed during this season. They contain a variety of minerals and vitamins. Take a warm bath to relieve muscle pain during the winter. Performing yoga and pranayama after waking up in the morning energizes the body.

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