Diseases of Respiratory Tract (Ayurvedic Concept)

Cold and cough are the most common symptoms from which every one suffers. This is because we are breathing air in and out continuously for 24 hours. Hence, the germs, dust particles, chemicals, fumes, smoke of vehicles and other factors which pollute the air are constantly being inhaled. The overcrowding predisposes to transfer of germs of I cold and cough, from one person to another. It is impossible to control the humid climate, overcrowding and the pollution. Ayurveda advises to adjust diet according to constitution, environment and season. It gives in detail the factors which increase the phlegm formation so that these can be avoided. Cold items like sweet lime, cold drinks, ice-cream increase cough. Sour food items increase cough and pungent food items decrease cough. The diseases of upper respiratory tract, i.e. nose, throat, tonsils, larynx and ears, as well as dis- eases of lower respiratory tract which includes air passages and lungs, and their treatment has been described. The measures to keep these organs healthy has also been described. This book will be useful to medical students, vaidyas, doctors and everyone to keep these organs healthy and to prevent diseases.

Dr. V.B. Athavale is renowned Paediatrician, and an eminent author who has several noteworthy achievements to this credit. He did his M.B.B.S. from Grant Medical College and Sir J.J. Group of Hospitals, both in Mumbai, stood first in D.C.H. (C.P.S.) 1956, and completed M.D. (Paed.) in 1958.

Dr. Athavale was chiarman of the workshop on ‘Herbal Medicines for Health for the Developing Countries, which was held at Bangkok in the year 1981. Dr. Athavale worked as a Honorary Professor and Head of Department of Paediatrician, L.T.M.G. Hospital, Sion, Mumbai during 1970 to 1990 and was recognised for his various accomplishments for which he has been bestowed with honours and awards, both National and International. V.B. Athavale Research Foundation has been founded as a mark of respect and gratitude to Dr. Athavale when he retired after 30 years of selfless service as Hon. Professor and Head of Department of Paediatrics, L.T.M. Medical College and L.T.M.G. Hospital, Mumbai.

Dr. K.V. Athavale is the son of Dr. V.B. Athavale. He is a graduate in Modern Medicine and is actively engaged with his father in writing.