THERAPEUTIC POTENTIAL OF PIPPALI AS VAMANOPAGA AND RASAYANA IN THE MANAGEMENT OF TAMAKA SWASA: A CASE REPORT

Tamaka Swasa, commonly referred to as bronchial asthma, is a chronic respiratory condition characterized by recurrent episodes of breathlessness, wheezing, and chest tightness. In Ayurveda, it is classified as a Swasa Roga and primarily involves the vitiation of Vata and Kapha doshas. The condition is often triggered by internal imbalances of dosas and external stimuli such as allergens, seasonal changes, and stress. Ayurvedic management focuses on addressing the root cause through a holistic approach that include medicines, dietary modifications and lifestyle changes. Pippali (Piper longum) which is kapha vata samana and a rasayana has mucolytic and bronchodilator properties.It is also agni deepana and has anti-inflamatory property.Panchakarma procedures such as Vamana and Virechana help in eliminating the vitiated dosas and reduces the frequency of occurrence.Along with this Pranayama enhance respiratory function and mental well-being. This article is a case report on Tamaka swasa where the patient has frequent attack of swasa for the past 6 months post H1N1 infection.Patient tried conventional treatment methodologies which gave the patient temporary relief but the quality of life gradually got highly compromise.To reduce the frequency of exacerbating episodes and impart strength to the respitory organs patient opted Ayurvedic management.Here patient was advised with agnideepana,rukshana,snehapana,swedana,vamana,dhoomapana,virechana and rasayana modalities of treatment were adopted.The symptoms were assessed usingZeicester cough Questionare andSt.George Respiratory Questionare before and after the treatment.This would provide data regarding the changes in symptoms as well as quality of life.After the treatment patient showed significant improvement in the symptoms and quality of life.In addition a focal periosteal lesion which was noted in the previous HRCT was found reduced in the CT taken after the treatment. Removal of kapha from Vayumarga, by the application of Swasaroga chikitsa principle has been recognized in this case experience.