Adverse health effects of tobacco and role of ayurveda in their reduction

Abstract

Tobacco in all forms is dangerous for human health and caused various diseases such as heart attacks, hypertension, strokes, pulmonary disease and cancer. Smoking is a leading cause of lung cancer whereas mouth cancer is mainly caused by chewing of tobacco. Similar to the first hand smoking, passive smoking also affects a healthy human. Various researches confirmed the presence of about 600 ingredients in cigarettes which produced about 69 carcinogenic compounds after burning. Ayurveda is however helpful in the reduction of side-effects of tobacco by various ways including the use of Rasayana such as Ashwagandha, Shatavari, Bala and Ginseng. Moreover, Yoga can help in releasing tension and stress and increase the strength and vitality without using any form of tobacco. Herein, an evidence-based report is prepared from various earlier important studies to aware public for the dangerous health effects of tobacco. This report mainly highlights major facts of the use of tobacco, its adverse effects globally and role of Ayurveda in their reduction.