By Team Ayurved Sutra March 16, 2026

Microplastics in the Air? Ayurveda Suggests Natural Ways to Protect Your Lungs

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Microplastics in air - Microplastics in the Air? Ayurveda Suggests Natural Ways to Protect Your Lungs

Growing concerns about environmental pollution have brought attention to a lesser-known health risk: microplastics. These microscopic plastic particles are increasingly being detected in air, water and everyday products, raising questions about their impact on human health—particularly the respiratory system.

Experts note that lung health depends on both internal lifestyle factors and external environmental conditions. As pollution and microplastic exposure rise, traditional wellness systems such as Ayurveda are being explored for preventive approaches that may help protect respiratory health.

The Rising Threat of Microplastics

Microplastics are tiny plastic particles measuring less than five millimetres, often even smaller than mustard seeds. Because they are non-biodegradable, once released into the environment they remain present for long periods.

These particles can enter the human body through multiple sources, including drinking water, packaged foods and everyday plastic products. Research cited in the source material suggests that an average person may ingest an amount of microplastics equivalent to the size of a credit card over time.

Health experts warn that microplastic exposure may affect multiple systems in the body. Apart from respiratory problems, they are believed to influence metabolism, heart health, hormones and other organs.

When inhaled, microplastics may enter the respiratory tract and potentially interfere with normal lung function. Long-term exposure has been associated with conditions such as fibrosis, asthma and bronchitis, making respiratory protection an important concern.

Research Explores Ayurvedic Intervention

Researchers at the Patanjali Research Institute conducted a study examining the potential respiratory benefits of an Ayurvedic formulation called Divya Bronchom.

According to the study described in the source material, the research began in 2023 following a 2022 study highlighting the possibility of microplastics reaching the lungs. Scientists explored whether Ayurvedic herbal compounds could reduce the impact of microplastic exposure on respiratory health.

The formulation contains herbs traditionally used in Ayurveda, including tulsi, clove, cinnamon, mulethi, sonth, amaltas, safed vasa, banafsa, bharangi and marich, along with mineral ingredients such as kapardak bhasma and godanti bhasma.

The preparation is described as supporting respiratory function by helping manage cough and cold, improving airflow, reducing inflammation and clearing mucus from the respiratory tract.

Study Findings and Research Method

The research involved an experimental study on 88 rats exposed to microplastic particles. After exposure, they were given the Ayurvedic formulation to examine potential effects on lung function.

Scientists used a device known as the Flexivent System to evaluate respiratory mechanics. According to the findings described in the source material, lung function improved in a dose-dependent manner after administration of the formulation.

Further testing involved collecting lung fluid to examine inflammation levels. Researchers observed that microplastic exposure increased immune cell activity, while treatment reduced these markers.

Histopathological analysis of lung tissue suggested that airways affected by microplastic exposure showed improvement after treatment. Researchers also noted changes in airflow velocity and exhalation pressure during respiratory assessment.

Additional laboratory experiments using THP-1 cells also indicated positive responses related to dose-dependent efficacy.

Ayurvedic Tips to Support Lung Health

Alongside research-based approaches, Ayurveda emphasises lifestyle practices that may support respiratory health.

1. Use Lung-Supporting Herbs

Herbs commonly recommended in Ayurveda include tulsi, mulethi and ashwagandha. Tulsi is traditionally used to support respiratory function and reduce inflammation. Mulethi is believed to help soothe airways and loosen mucus, while ashwagandha may help reduce stress and pollutant-related inflammation.

2. Practice Cleansing Therapies

Certain traditional therapies are suggested to help maintain nasal and respiratory hygiene. These include practices such as Jal Neti, nasal oil application and oil pulling, which may help remove pollutants and toxins from the nasal passages.

3. Follow a Lung-Friendly Diet

Ayurveda recommends warm water and herbal drinks to keep the respiratory tract hydrated. Consuming small amounts of ghee may help soothe the airways. Spices such as turmeric, garlic and black pepper are also widely used for their potential anti-inflammatory and immunity-supporting properties.

A Growing Focus on Preventive Lung Care

As environmental exposure to microplastics continues to draw attention worldwide, health experts are increasingly examining both modern medical research and traditional wellness practices for potential solutions.

The findings referenced in the source material suggest that Ayurvedic approaches may offer complementary strategies for supporting respiratory health. However, experts generally emphasise that maintaining lung health also requires broader environmental awareness, reduced pollution exposure and healthy lifestyle habits.