Pathyapathya Ahara in Kasa and Swasa Chikitsa applicable for emerging respiratory infections: A review

Abstract

Respiratory disorders impose an immense worldwide health issue. There were emergence of newly recognized Coronavirus, Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS), Middle Eastern Respiratory Syndrome (MERS) and novel H1N1 Influenza. Kasa (Cough) and Swasa (Asthma) are two pathological conditions which are related to Pranavaha srotas (Respiratory System) in Ayurveda. One of the main principles of Ayurveda disease management is following wholesome (pathya) food and avoiding unwholesome (Apathya) food. This study was done to focus on Pathayapathya Ahara in Kasa and Swasa which are applicable in emerging Respiratory infections and to analyze the pharmacodynamic properties of that Pathyapathya Ahara. The relevant literature has been collected from the diverse Ayurvedic authentic texts, research journals, authentic internet sources and most mentioned Pathyapathya were analyzed. According to the data, the prominent taste is Madhura (Sweet), Katu (Pungent) and Tikta (Bitter) and prominent Veerya (Potency) is Ushna (Hot) Veerya which leads to pacified Vata Dosa. The prominent Guna are Laghu (Light), Guru (Heavy), Snigdha (Unctuous) and Theekshna (Sharpness). Furthermore, the main actions are Krimighna (anti-microbial), Vataghna, Kasahara (antitussive), Kanta Shodhana (beneficial to the throat), and Swasahara (anti-asthmatic). Dadhi (Curd), Kanda (Tubers) and Sheeta Veerya Anna have been mentioned as Apathya for both and Sarshapa, Mathsya have been mentioned as Apathya for Swasa. The proved scientific evidence regarding Pathya food in Kasa and Swasa show anti-inflammatory action. The emerging respiratory disorders cause hyper-inflammation in Respiratory system and this anti-inflammatory action will balance that condition. Therefore, it can be concluded that the Pathyapathya Ahara in Kasa and Shwasa can be applicable as the wholesome and unwholesome food for emerging Respiratory infections.