Therapeutic Relevance of Panchakarma in Respiratory and Psychological Complications Following COVID-19: A Review

Abstract

Introduction: The COVID-19 pandemic has caused significant global health challenges that extend beyond acute-phase infections. Many patients who have recovered continue to suffer from persistent breathing and mental health problems known as post-COVID syndrome or long COVID. The most common respiratory manifestations were chronic cough, breathlessness, chest discomfort, fatigue, and decreased lung function, while psychological complications included anxiety, depression, insomnia, stress, and cognition.

Objective: Ayurveda has gained prominence in recent years as a supportive system of medicine that helps in rehabilitation and wellness. Panchakarma, a traditional Ayurvedic detoxification and rejuvenation therapy, may help restore physiological and psychological equilibrium after sickness and illness.

Method: This review assesses the usefulness of Panchakarma in treating respiratory and mental complications of COVID-19. This study analyzes Ayurvedic principles of respiratory and mental health, correlating them with post-viral complications observed after COVID-19 infection. The Ayurvedic rehabilitation program uses standard procedures such as Nasya, Abhyanga, Swedana, Basti, Shirodhara, etc., which may help relax the mind, support breathing comfort, alleviate stress, help sleep better, and improve the quality of life. Nonetheless, existing scientific evidence is largely based on observational studies, ancient literature, and a few clinical reports. In this way, Panchakarma is a supportive adjunct and not a replacement for evidence-based medical treatment. More well-designed clinical studies are needed to establish standardized protocols for efficacy and safety in COVID-19 rehabilitation.

DOI: https://doi.org/.10.24321/2394.6547.202605

How to cite this article:
Sharma S. Therapeutic Relevance of Panchakarma in Respiratory and Psychological Complications Following COVID-19: A Review. J Adv Res Ayur Yoga Unani Sidd Homeo. 2026;13(3&4): 1-8.