Evaluation of indoor air quality after use of herbal dhoop cups.

AbstractAirborne diseases are caused by pathogenic microbes that are expelled from an infected person through activitieslike coughing, sneezing, laughing, or close contact. These microbes become aerosolized, attaching themselves todust particles, respiratory droplets, or water vapor, and can remain suspended in the air. Illness occurs when thesemicrobes are inhaled, come into contact with mucus membranes, or are transmitted by touching surfaces wherethe secretions have settled. Pathogenic microorganisms are present in both indoor and outdoor environments andare responsible for diseases such as tuberculosis, tetanus, cholera, and influenza. In ancient times, eldersrecommended the use of cow dung Sambrani for purifying air and eliminating disease-causing agents like thegerms responsible for tuberculosis, measles, smallpox, cowpox, and various bacteria and fungi. Cow dungSambrani, traditionally made from a mixture of ingredients such as cow dung, hawan samagri, cow urine, ghee,Bhimseni camphor, guggul, jatamansi, Palash, raal, nagarmotha, and neem, has been believed to purify the air byneutralizing harmful microorganisms. The present study focuses on evaluating the antimicrobial properties ofcow dung Sambrani cups particularly in high-traffic areas such as college hotspots where pollution and microbialload are likely higher. By analyzing its effects on various pathogenic bacteria, fungi, and other microbes, thisresearch aims to scientifically validate the traditional claims and explore its potential as a natural air purifier incombating airborne pathogens.