Bitter is one of the six tastes identified in Ayurveda. It is associated with the decrease of Kapha dosha in the body. According to Ayurveda, the lungs are one of the main seats of Kapha dosha.
Research on Bitter Taste Receptors
In 2010, researchers at the University of Maryland School of medicine found that bitter taste receptors are located in the human lungs as well as in the mouth. Although the taste buds located in the lungs do not send signals to brain, they do respond to bitter tastes by opening the airways. The research shows this is “more extensively than any known drug that currently exists to address asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease”.
According to the American Lung Association, asthma affects nearly 23 million Americans, including seven million children. Additionally, COPD is the fourth leading cause of death in the United States.
During asthma attacks, the smooth muscle cells contract, causing a narrowing of the airways and subsequent breathing difficulties. The fact that bitter tastes can relax these smooth muscles cells has opened new possibilities for natural treatments of asthma.
According to Ayurveda…
While Ayurveda acknowledges many types of asthma, Kapha-related asthma is the most common. It involves the production of sticky, thick mucous.
It is important to note that even with a Kapha-related asthma, an imbalance of Vata dosha is often involved (along the presence of ama —a sticky toxin caused by poor digestion.) Because Kapha and Vata have opposite qualities, finding an approach that will simultaneously pacify both doshas can be tricky. For this reason, it’s best to consult our Ayurvedic experts to help determine the most beneficial approach to any individual case of asthma.
Bitter Foods & How They Work
What foods provide a bitter taste? Kale, artichokes, bitter melon, broccoli, Brussel’s sprouts, arugula, grapefruit, oranges and lemons, and turmeric are all examples of foods with bitter tastes.
While bitter is not a taste that is common in the traditional American diet, bitter flavored foods have long held a special place in traditional medicine. From the ancient Egyptians to the 16th century physician Paracelsus, elixirs brewed from bitter herbs have been considered cure-all remedies. Studies have confirmed that getting an adequate amount of bitter flavor is important for digestive balance.
Experiencing the bitter flavor on the tongue initiates an effect that starts with the salivary glands. For this reason, bitters should not be taken in pill or capsule form. The stimulation of the taste buds and increased saliva output is the signal for the digestive process to produce and release the necessary enzymes and digestive juices for proper and thorough digestion of food.
Additional Ayurveda Recommendations for Asthma Relief
Other treatments that are traditionally recommended for asthma are the purification therapies of Panchakarma. These treatments expel the excess doshas from their sites of accumulation. This treats the condition at a deep level and decreases the chance of recurrence.
A diet and lifestyle that avoids aggravation of both Kapha and Vata dosha should also be followed. This means avoiding heavy, cold or dry foods. Warm, soupy foods that are freshly prepared can nourish Vata without aggravating Kapha. Again, balancing of both Vata and Kapha at the same time is a delicate process. It is best to consult with someone who is experienced in this area to avoid creating more imbalances.