Impact of Air Pollution on ENT Health: An Ayurvedic Perspective on Pratishyaya and Shiro Roga — A Critical Review
Abstract
Air pollution has become one of the most significant environmental determinants affecting human health. Continuous exposure to particulate matter, nitrogen oxides, sulfur dioxide, ozone, and chemical pollutants contributes to increasing incidence of upper respiratory tract disorders and ENT-related morbidity. The nasal cavity, paranasal sinuses, pharynx, and laryngeal structures act as the primary interface between inhaled pollutants and the human body, making them highly vulnerable to environmental insults. Modern research demonstrates that air pollutants induce mucosal irritation, oxidative stress, chronic inflammation, impaired mucociliary clearance, and immune dysregulation, leading to allergic rhinitis, chronic rhinosinusitis, pharyngitis, and headache disorders. Ayurveda describes similar pathological processes through the concepts of Pratishyaya, Shiro Roga, Kapha-Vata Dushti, and impairment of Pranavaha and Urdhvajatrugata Srotas. Classical texts explain that disturbance of normal Dosha function and accumulation of pathological factors result in obstruction of channels and manifestation of disease. This review critically evaluates the relationship between air pollution and ENT disorders from both modern and Ayurvedic perspectives. Classical Ayurvedic literature and recent scientific publications from PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science were reviewed. The analysis suggests that pollutant-induced inflammation may be correlated with Kapha aggravation, Ama formation, and Srotodushti. Ayurvedic interventions including Nasya Karma, Kavala/Gandusha, dietary regulation, and Rasayana therapy may provide preventive and supportive approaches for pollution-associated ENT disorders. Further clinical and molecular research is required to validate integrative strategies.
Keywords
Air pollution, ENT disorders, Pratishyaya, Shiro Roga, Nasya, Ayurveda, respiratory health