PANCHAKARMA IN RESPIRATORY DISORDERS (TAMAKA SHWASA AND PRATISHYAYA)
Chronic respiratory diseases, led by chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and asthma, impose a major global burden. Allergic rhinitis is among the commonest chronic conditions and frequently coexists with asthma. Ayurveda describes Tamaka Shwasa, correlated with bronchial asthma, and Pratishyaya, correlated with rhinitis and coryza, as disorders of Prana Vaha Srotas with Kapha and Vata involvement. Panchakarma procedures including Snehana, Swedana, Vamana, Nasya, Dhumapana and Virechana are used in these disorders, along with Shamana medicines. This article reviews classical descriptions, modern immunology, therapeutic procedures, available evidence and safety. Procedures are suited to stable, inter-attack periods and must not replace emergency treatment or guideline-based controller therapy in asthma.