Ayurvedic Treatment of IPF (Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis)

ABOUT IDIOPATHIC PULMONARY FIBROSIS (IPF)

Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) is a condition in which the lungs get scarred progressively, with the result that the sufferer's breathing process gets affected significantly over a period of time. The gradual build-up of the scar tissue -- 'fibrosis' -- causes the sufferer's lungs to become stiff, thick and less expandable; thereby affecting their ability to inflate and take in sufficient oxygen from the air.

Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) is a lung disease which falls in the category of 'Interstitial Lung Diseases' (ILDs). There are over 200 lung diseases categorized as ILDs, with the word 'Interstitial' implying that these diseases affect the 'interstitium' --- the tissue and space which provide support to the air sacs in the lungs. As such, IPF and other ILDs do not affect the blood vessels or the airways directly.

In the case of Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis in particular, damage from external particles lead to the hardening of the 'alveoli' --- the small air sacs of the lungs. The occurrence of this lung disease has been diagnosed in people of almost all age-groups, though it more commonly affects people who are over 50 years of age. Moreover, men are generally at a higher risk of the disease as compared to women.

RISK FACTORS OF IDIOPATHIC PULMONARY FIBROSIS (IPF)

Since 'Idiopathic' means 'cause not known', there is still no clear understanding of the exact causes of Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis. However, there are some risk factors -- other than 'male' sex and 50+ age -- which are generally linked to this lung disease. These risk factors are:

• Hereditary factors (family history of an ILD)
• Heartburn or Acid reflux from the stomach (gastroesophageal reflux disease)
• Certain viruses, including the herpes virus, Epstein Barr virus, and hepatitis C
• Environmental factors like exposure to dust from wood, stone, metal, or textiles; or from farming and cattle-breeding.
• Cigarette smoking.

SYMPTOMS OF IDIOPATHIC PULMONARY FIBROSIS (IPF)

There are two main indications of the possible occurrence of Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis. These are:

• Dyspnea (that is, breathlessness or shortness of breath)
• Chronic cough (dry cough which lasts for more than two months).

In addition, to these two major symptoms of Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis, some of the other symptoms of this disease include:

• Fatigue
• Joint and muscle pains
• Unexplained weight loss
• Chest pain
• Loss of appetite
• ‘Clubbing’ of fingers (change in shape of fingers).

DIAGNOSIS OF IDIOPATHIC PULMONARY FIBROSIS (IPF)

For diagnosing Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis, doctors initially examine the medical and family history of the patients, along with their work history. This is done to ascertain whether the disease is caused due to genetic or environmental factors. Thereafter, some tests are carried out to confirm the diagnosis of the disease. These tests include the following:

• Blood tests
• Chest X-ray
• Breathing tests
• Bronchoscopy
• Biopsy
• Spirometer
• Pulse oximetry and arterial blood gas tests.

TREATMENT OF IDIOPATHIC PULMONARY FIBROSIS (IPF)

The symptoms of Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis can be effectively managed with the help of potent herbal formulations offered by Ayurvedic experts. These herbal formulations are prepared from pure and standardized extracts of herbs; and do not contain any chemicals, artificial colours, starch or preservatives. Since these formulations are mostly prepared under the expert guidance of renowned Ayurvedic doctors, they have proven effectiveness in managing Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis and other ILDs.

Specifically speaking, the herbal formulations recommended for Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis patients are listed below:

1. Tulsi Capsules:

The use of Tulsi or holy basil (Ocimum tenuiflorum) is very beneficial in managing ILDs such as Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis. Tulsi capsules are prepared from the pure and natural extracts of the Tulsi herb which is widely known for its anti-microbial properties, as well as its usefulness in fighting against infections, and relieving the common ILD symptoms like breathlessness and dry cough.

Patients suffering from lung diseases like Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis should take 1-2 Tulsi capsules two times a day, after meals.

2. Curcumin Capsules:

Another beneficial herbal product which can manage the symptoms of Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis is Curcumin capsules. To prepare these capsules, a powerful herb called Curcumin (Curcuma longa) is used. These capsules can safely be used for controlling chronic cough, shortness of breath, and other symptoms of this lung disease.

To manage Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis, patients are generally advised to take 2 Curcumin capsules with plain water twice a day, after meals.

3. Cap. Aller-G Care:

This herbal formulation is also an excellent product which can be used for managing Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis and other ILDs. For preparing these capsules, a number of herbs with proven anti-microbial and anti-inflammatory properties are used. These herbs -- which can make the lungs and the immune system healthy -- include Neem (Azadirachta indica), Ashwagandha (Withania sominefera), Haridra (Curcuma longa), and Shirish (Albezzia lebbock).

For treating ILDs like Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis, 1 or 2 Aller G Care capsules should be taken twice a day, after meals.

4. Giloy Capsules:

Prepared from the pure extracts of the Giloy (Tinospora cordifolia) herb, these capsules are extremely effective in managing diseases related to the lungs. The Giloy herb, with its anti-microbial and healing properties, strengthens the immune system and also relieves the symptoms of Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis and other ILDs.

The recommended dosage of Giloy capsules for managing lung diseases is 1 capsule with plain water after meals, twice daily.

5. Praanrakshak Churna:

This amazing herbal powder is prepared from several useful and powerful herbs which provide support to the respiratory system, and make the immune system healthy. These herbs -- which have anti-microbial properties and can heal the lung tissues -- include: Anantmool (Tylphora asthmatica), Vasa (Adhatoda vasica), Kantkari (Solanum xanthocarpum), Mulethi (Glycyrrhiza glabra), Bharangi (Clerodandrum serratum), Shirish (Albezzia lebbock), and Twak (Cinnnamomum zeylanica).

For managing the symptoms of Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis and other ILDs, Praanrakshak Churna should be taken two times a day, after breakfast and dinner, in the following way: Boil 1 teaspoon of the churna in 400ml water till around 50ml of water remains. Allow the water to cool to room temperature; then strain and drink it. Prepare a fresh decoction of the churna and water every day.

Along with the above-mentioned herbal formulations for managing Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis, the patients of this lung disease should also take care of some other important things. Most importantly, they avoid cigarette smoking and tobacco, and should exercise regularly and eat a balanced diet.

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