How to Protect Your Health from Fire Smoke with Ayurveda and Yoga
Discover Ayurvedic herbs, spices, and yoga practices to support your lungs and calm your mind. Stay healthy with these natural remedies.
Ayurvedic and Yoga Support for Fire Smoke Relief in LA
To everyone in Los Angeles: My heart aches seeing the devastation caused by the fires and the challenges you’re facing. I wish I could do more than just share words and information on this blog, but I hope these Ayurvedic remedies and yoga practices can bring even a small sense of support and calm amidst the chaos. Please know you’re in my thoughts, and I’m sending love and strength to everyone affected.
Why Fire Smoke Affects Us
From an Ayurvedic perspective, smoke can aggravate the vata and pitta doshas (learn more about the doshas here), causing dryness in the respiratory system and irritation in the eyes, nose, and throat. It’s also common to feel more anxious or restless during this time (thanks, vata season!). Ayurveda offers plenty of ways to counterbalance these effects naturally.
Herbal Allies for Smoke Relief
Licorice (Mulethi) Licorice is a superstar when it comes to soothing the respiratory system. It’s cooling, moistening, and helps ease throat irritation caused by smoke. You can brew licorice tea or add a pinch of powdered licorice to warm water with a little honey (but skip the honey if the water is hot!). You can find my favorite licorace here: Organic Licorice Root Powder.
Contraindication: Avoid licorice if you have high blood pressure, kidney disease, or are pregnant.
Turmeric A natural anti-inflammatory and immune booster, turmeric is great for clearing the lungs. Stir half a teaspoon of turmeric into warm almond milk (or any non-dairy milk) with a dash of black pepper for a golden milk elixir. You can find my favorite turmeric here: Organic Turmeric Powder.
Contraindication: Avoid turmeric if you have gallstones or bile duct obstruction. Use cautiously if pregnant.
Tulsi (Holy Basil) Tulsi is a powerful adaptogen and rasayana (rejuvenative) herb that supports lung health and helps clear toxins. Brew a tulsi tea to sip throughout the day. Tulsi also comes in tablet form. You can find the tablets I use here: Tulsi Tablets.
Contraindication: Avoid tulsi if you are taking blood-thinning medications or trying to conceive.
Ginger Ginger is a warming herb that helps break down mucus and supports circulation. Try a simple ginger tea by simmering fresh ginger slices in water for 10 minutes and adding a squeeze of lemon. Find my suggested ginger powder here: Ginger Powder.
Contraindication: Avoid ginger if you have a tendency toward acid reflux or ulcers.
Sitopaladi Churna A classic Ayurvedic formulation for respiratory health, Sitopaladi is excellent for reducing coughs and clearing the lungs. Mix a teaspoon of the powder with honey and take it twice a day.
Contraindication: Consult with a practitioner if you have diabetes, as it contains sugar and may not be ideal. We can chat about it if you’d like! I always use Banyan Botanicals Brand HERE
NAC (N-Acetyl-L-Cysteine) NAC is a powerful antioxidant that supports lung health, boosts the immune system, and aids in detoxification by replenishing glutathione levels in the body. This supplement is especially helpful for clearing mucus and reducing inflammation in the respiratory system. Try this: Pure Encapsulations NAC 600 mg.
Contraindication: Avoid NAC if you have a history of peptic ulcers or are pregnant without consulting your healthcare provider.
Spices to Cook With
Cooking with the right spices can strengthen your body’s resilience to smoke. Add these to your meals:
Cumin: Improves digestion and helps reduce dryness.
Coriander: A cooling spice that balances pitta.
Fennel: Soothes the respiratory system and calms vata.
Cardamom: Clears mucus and supports lung health.
Yoga Practices to Support Your Lungs
Pranayama (Breathwork)
Nadi Shodhana (Alternate Nostril Breathing): Balances the nervous system and clears the mind.
Sheetali (Cooling Breath): Cools down heat and soothes irritation from smoke.
Practice these techniques daily, ideally in a clean indoor space with a good air purifier.
Contraindication: Avoid Sheetali if you have a cold or sinus congestion.
Gentle Asanas
Child’s Pose (Balasana): Restores calm and promotes deep breathing.
Cat-Cow (Marjaryasana-Bitilasana): Opens up the chest and improves circulation.
Supported Fish Pose (Matsyasana): Expands the lungs and helps counteract the effects of smoke inhalation.
Contraindication: Modify poses if you have neck or back issues.
Additional Tips for Fire Smoke Relief
Hydrate: Drink plenty of warm water with lemon to flush out toxins.
Oil Your Nostrils: Apply a little sesame or coconut oil to your nostrils to keep them moist and prevent dryness.
Steam Inhalation: Add a drop of eucalyptus oil to a bowl of hot water, drape a towel over your head, and inhale deeply for 5 minutes.
Use a Humidifier: Keep the air in your home moist to counteract the dryness caused by smoke.
These Ayurvedic and yoga practices are here to support you and help you feel your best, even when the air quality is poor. Remember, taking small steps to care for yourself can make a big difference. Sending lots of love and healing vibes your way. Let’s breathe easy together.
Are you seeking one-on-one guidance or extra support during this time? Ayurveda thrives on personalizing your journey to meet your unique needs. While the information shared here can be helpful, you might feel that working together could provide the tailored care and direction you’re looking for.
Seeking deeper lifestyle support?
During this difficult time, as we face the devastation caused by the wildfires in Los Angeles, my mission is to provide guidance toward balance and holistic well-being using the wisdom of yoga and Ayurveda. I offer insights into dietary choices, lifestyle habits, and wellness practices to support your journey based on Ayurvedic principles.
Important Disclaimer: The information I provide is strictly for educational and supportive purposes only. It is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease or medical condition. I am not a licensed healthcare provider, and my services do not replace professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult with a qualified healthcare professional for medical concerns or before making significant changes to your health and wellness routines.