Tamaka Shwasa and the Mind–Body Axis: Psychosomatic Insights from Ayurveda
Author : Dr. Preetimayee Sahoo and Dr. Nihar Ranjan Mahanta
Abstract :
Background: Tamaka Shwasa, is described in Ayurveda under Shwasa Roga, which bears close resemblance to bronchial asthma, a chronic inflammatory airway disorder characterized by recurrent episodes of breathlessness, wheezing, cough, and chest tightness. Ayurveda explains Tamaka Shwasa as a Vata–Kapha predominant disorder involving the Pranavaha Srotas. Along with dietary and environmental factors, psychological disturbances such as stress, anxiety, and emotional imbalance can significantly influence the onset and exacerbation of asthma. The Ayurvedic concept of the mind–body relationship highlights the role of Manas and Manasika Doshas (Rajas and Tamas) in the manifestation of psychosomatic disorders.
Aim: To explore the psychosomatic dimensions of Tamaka Shwasa and evaluate the role of Manas in the pathogenesis and plan an ideal management of bronchial asthma from an Ayurvedic perspective.
Materials and Methods: A narrative review was conducted based on classical Ayurvedic texts including Charaka Samhita, Sushruta Samhita, and Ashtanga Hridaya along with relevant contemporary scientific literature addressing psychosomatic aspects of bronchial asthma.
Results and Conclusion: Psychological stress and emotional disturbances may aggravate Rajas which leads to Vata prakopa and dysfunction of the Pranavaha Srotas, while Kapha contributes to airway obstruction and mucus accumulation, producing the classical features of Tamaka Shwasa. Psychological stress activates the hypothalamic pituitary adrenal (HPA) axis and the autonomic nervous system, leading to neuro-immunological changes that promote airway inflammation, bronchial hyper-responsiveness, and increased release of inflammatory cytokines associated with asthma. Modern evidence on stress-induced neuro-immunological and inflammatory mechanisms further supports this integrative understanding. Ayurvedic management incorporating Shodhana, Shamana by herbal formulations, Medhya Rasayana, and mind–body practices such as Yoga, Pranayama and Achara Rasayan which provide a holistic approach to disease management. Future research should focus on well-designed clinical trials and interdisciplinary studies to evaluate the efficacy of Ayurvedic mind–body interventions in bronchial asthma.
Keywords :
Tamaka Shwasa, Bronchial Asthma, Psychosomatic Disorders, Manas, Ayurveda, Mind–Body Axis.
