Evaluation Of Comparative Efficacy Of Bharangi Arka And Tulasi Arka Nebulization On Tamaka Shwasa (Bronchial Asthma) And Its Influence On Doshic Status: A Randomised Clinical Trial

Abstract

Background: The increasing global burden of Bronchial asthma calls for a reliable approach. Ayurveda describes Tamaka Shwasa with symptoms analogous to Bronchial asthma. Nebulization is the breaking down of a liquid into very small droplets. Ayurvedic drugs having volatile oils with bronchodilator, anti-inflammatory effect like Bharangi and Tulasi are converted into Arka, pharmaceutical liquid preparation similar to distillation which is evaluated for their clinical efficacy as herbal nebulizer. Aims & objectives: To compare the clinical efficacy of Bharangi and Tulasi Arka nebulization on Tamaka Shwasa and to assess its influence on Doshic status. Materials and methods: 100 patients were selected and randomly allocated into two groups. Group A and Group B were given nebulization with Bharangi and Tulasi Arka respectively. PEFR and Naadi assessment was done before and after intervention. The data obtained was subjected to statistical analysis. Observation and results: Significant differences were noted in the Mean ranks of symptoms and PEFR before and after the treatment. Chi square value on Naadi of Group B was significant at the level of p value < 0.0001. Discussion: Bharangi and Tulasi Arka having the properties of alleviating Vata and Kapha Dosha significantly reduced symptoms due to their anti-inflammatory effect and bronchodilator action enabled PEFR improvements. Tulasi Arka with its ability to prevent the leukotriene and other inflammatory mediators was comparatively more effective than Bharangi Arka. Conclusion: Naadi indicating the Doshic status shifted from Vata, Kapha to Pitta after treatment and was significant by Tulasi Arka in comparision to Bharangi Arka.