Efficacy of Pranayama Intervention on Lung Function Among Bronchial Asthma Patients

Background: Bronchial asthma is a chronic inflammatory airway disorder characterized by reversible airflow obstruction and bronchial hyperresponsiveness. While conventional pharmacological management provides symptomatic relief, it often fails to fully restore pulmonary function. Yogic breathing techniques (Pranayama) have been recognized as a potential complementary therapy to improve respiratory efficiency and overall lung function.
Objective: This study aimed to evaluate the efficacy of a structured Pranayama intervention on pulmonary function among patients with bronchial asthma.
Methods: A total of 60 participants with clinically diagnosed mild to moderate bronchial asthma were recruited from Alappuzha district, Kerala, and randomized into intervention and control groups. The intervention group received an 8-week Pranayama program consisting of five supervised sessions per week (45 minutes each), incorporating Anuloma-Viloma, Bhramari, and Sectional Breathing. Pulmonary function was assessed at baseline and post-intervention using spirometry parameters, including forced vital capacity (FVC), forced expiratory volume in one second (FEV1), peak expiratory flow rate (PEFR), and FEV1/FVC ratio. Data were analyzed using paired and independent t-tests, with p < 0.05 considered statistically significant.
Results: Participants in the intervention group demonstrated significant improvements in FEV1 (p < 0.05), PEFR (p < 0.01), and FEV1/FVC ratio (p < 0.05) compared to controls. No significant changes were observed in the control group across spirometric measures.
Conclusion: The findings indicate that structured Pranayama practices can significantly enhance pulmonary function in patients with bronchial asthma. These results support the integration of Pranayama as a safe and cost-effective adjunct to conventional asthma management

Pranayama, bronchial asthma, pulmonary function, spirometry, yoga

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