Effect of Vayu Nirvishikarana Yoga in reducing laboratory-induced BTEX gas exposure: An analytical study

Introduction: Air pollution remains a critical environmental challenge due to rapid industrialization and urban growth. Indoor air pollution, in particular, poses a greater risk to professionals exposed to harmful substances for prolonged periods. Those working in chemical laboratories are highly vulnerable to volatile organic compounds (VOCs) like benzene, toluene, ethylene, and xylene, which are known carcinogens and pose severe health risks. While modern technologies exist to reduce indoor air pollution, Ayurvedic texts suggest traditional methods such as Dhoopana Karma, which involves fumigation with natural substances to purify the air and mitigate chemical hazards effectively. Objective: This study aims to evaluate the impact of Vayu Nirvishikarana yoga in reducing BTEX gases and compare its effectiveness with the conventional Exhaust Ventilation method. Materials and Methods:A comprehensive literature review was conducted from credible sources. Vayu Nirvishikarana yoga was formulated following traditional Ayurvedic principles, and preliminary analytical studies were performed. The protocol involved conducting Dhoopana twice daily for six days. Fume samples were collected using an automatic vacuum suction pump and condensed in distilled HPLC-grade diethyl ether and petroleum ether. These samples were analyzed using Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectroscopy (GC-MS) with the Shimadzu TQ 8050 Plus and HS-20. Results:The Vayu Nirvishikarana yoga, prepared in churna (powder) form, exhibited an aromatic odor, high water solubility, and contained phytochemicals such as steroids, flavonoids, alkaloids, tannins, carbohydrates, and reducing sugars. Dhoopana significantly reduced hazardous compounds like Bis(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate, Diethyl Phthalate, and Butylated Hydroxytoluene in BTEX samples. The exhaust ventilation method showed no substantial improvements. Conclusion: GC-MS analysis confirmed that Dhoopana with Vayu Nirvishikarana yoga is more effective than exhaust ventilation in eliminating toxic chemicals, enhancing workplace safety.