Green Lungs through Ayurveda: A Preventive Model for Urban Air Quality Crisis

Abstract

Introduction: Air pollution in Delhi has become one of the most significant public health issues, and the city has regularly been among the worst industries in the Air Quality Index (AQI) in many countries with a record of up to 500 and above. Urbanization in expressive form, high population density, motorization, industrialization, biomass burning, and seasonal burning of crop residues in neighboring states like Punjab, Haryana among others are also adding to the poor quality of air. The geographical location, which is landlocked, geographical location, in the Indo-Gangetic Plains, low wind velocity during the winter months, and frequent occurrence of temperature inversion causes the pollutants to be nearer to the surface increasing the formation of smog in Delhi. With the sharp rise in the AQI, the respiratory conditions, heart diseases, poor lung productivity in youngsters, and progression of chronic diseases like asthma and COPD (Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease) get aggravated. Methodology: An extensive review was done. Result: The paper highlighted the potential of Ayurveda as a holistic and preventive healthcare system that would provide a solution to the multifactorial aspect of the disorders caused by pollution. Discussion: The increasing burden of disease reminds us of the strong demand of both environmental and healthcare-based approaches, such as tightening of emission control, sustainable urban planning, and preparedness to health. This abstract dwells upon the interdependence between the geographical vulnerabilities of the city of Delhi, the increasing AQI, and the increasing health hazards, as well as the need of combined measures to ensure the health of communities.

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