Snoring is the name given to the snorting or rattling noise made by many people when they breathe during sleep. It is caused by the vibration of the soft tissue in the mouth, nose or throat. It is particularly common after the age of 40 but it can affect any age group and is increasingly found in obese children.

There are various possible reasons for snoring. It is frequently a throat muscle problem; an excess of mucus collecting in the throat muscles can cause congestion. In Ayurveda this is seen as a Kapha aggravation. As the mucus begins to compact the throat muscles begin to lose their tone and during the relaxation of sleep they are unable to maintain their correct position so that the throat partially closes. The situation is aggravated by the ageing process and in time can lead to incessant coughing. In more serious cases the cranial circulation can become compromised and eye problems or brain fog can result, as well as asthma and sinus conditions. The thyroid or pituitary gland can also be affected.

Ayurvedic treatment of snoring first involves determining the underlying problem, and we can gain many clues about this from the type of snoring. Some people begin as soon as their eyes close and this is a sign of a serious lack of stamina. Others only begin when they enter deep sleep and this is indicative of a health problem in its early stages. People who constantly fall asleep during the day are often lacking in muscle tone and the throat muscles begin to hang as soon as they relax. Obesity is a very common factor, but there are also many people who are not obese but whose bodies are so toxic that as soon as they relax the mucus flow increases in an attempt to remove the toxins. The greater the air flow the more profuse the flow of mucus.

The selection of appropriate Ayurvedic medicines is completely dependent upon an accurate diagnosis of the underlying problem. The priority is to reduce Kapha but medicines may be formulated to treat the lungs and respiratory tract, the sinuses, the tonsils, the thyroid, the adrenals, or any other system that might be affected. One medicine that is very commonly used is Trikatu – an Ayurvedic combination of three herbs that stimulate digestion and help to eliminate waste (‘ama’).

Many yogic exercises are highly effective in promoting decongestion. These include:

• Neck rotation
• Locust posture (Shalabahasana)
• Forward bending (Uttanasana)
• Sun Salutation (Surya Namaskar)
• Indian Pushups
• Shoulder Stand (Sharvangasana)

Detailed instructions on these exercises are to be found in the book, (see Yoga Book – ‘Yatan Yoga’).

Regular exercise such as daily walking is also strongly recommended.

Ayurvedic treatment for snoring will always include dietary recommendations with a view to decreasing Kapha. Such a diet will focus strongly on alkaline  foods and spices. Foods to avoid include milk, yoghurt, bananas, ice cream, cold drinks, orange and pastries, all of which increase Kapha. A cup of hot water taken in the morning and before bed is also very helpful.

If snoring is causing you (or your long-suffering partner) concern book your consultation at the Yatan Holistic Ayurvedic Centre on 1300 552 260.

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