Role of Deepaneeya and Shwashara Dashemani in the Management of Tamakashwasa w.s.r. to Bronchial Asthma: a review

Abstract

According to Global initiative for Asthma workshop 2005 report, there will be additional 100 millions of people suffering from asthma by 2025. Sushruta has quoted; Shwasa a disease described in Ayurvedic classics is more akin to bronchial asthma. Madhavakara has mentioned Agnimandya as root cause of all diseases. Aacharyas have included Pranavaha, Annavaha and Udakavaha Strotasa vitiation in the etiopathogenesis of Shwasa. Charaka has described the treatment of Shwasa according to its Karanas (etiological factors), Sthana (organ of manifestation) and Moola (root place of pathogenesis). Aamashaya has been referred as an Udbhavasthan of Shwasa by Vagbhata and Charaka. Chakrapani explains Aamashaya as Pittasthana (Agni) indicating importance of management of Agnimandya (hypofunction of Agni). Deepaneeya Dashemani acts on the Moolasthana of Strotasa involved in Shwasa. Deepaneeya Dashemani described by Charaka includes Pippali, Pipplaimoola, Chavya, Chitraka, Shunthi, Amlavetasa Maricha, Ajmoda, Bhallatakasthi and Hingu. Out of these; nine Dravyas possess Katu Rasa except Amlavetasa. All Dravyas have Ushna Veerya, Laghu and Teekshna Gunas. Most of them possess Katu Vipaka and acts as Deepana, Pachana and Strotovishodhana. Out of ten, two Dravyas Amlavetasa and Hingu are common to Deepaneeya and Shwashara Dashemani. Research studies have reported bronchodilator, antiasthmatic, antiallergic, antibacterial, antitussive and antihistaminic actions of these drugs.