A Sacred Tradition Meets Modern Medicine
For centuries, people across India have blown into conch shells—shankh—during spiritual ceremonies, believing the sound purifies surroundings and marks auspicious beginnings. Now, scientists are exploring how this ancient practice could help people with obstructive sleep apnoea (OSA).
The Clinical Trial
Researchers at the Eternal Heart Care Centre and Research Institute in Jaipur led a six-month study involving 30 adults with moderate OSA. They divided participants into two groups: one group blew a conch for 15 minutes a day, five days a week, while the other practiced deep breathing exercises. By the end of the study, the conch-blowing group reduced daytime sleepiness by 34%, cut four to five apnoea events per hour, and raised blood oxygen saturation levels during sleep. Many participants also reported waking up more refreshed and alert.
How It Works
Shankh blowing starts with a deep inhalation, followed by a forceful, sustained exhalation through the shell. This action creates resistance and vibrations that strengthen muscles in the tongue, soft palate, and throat. Stronger airway muscles can stay open more effectively, which reduces breathing interruptions during sleep.
Potential as a Complementary Therapy
Although CPAP machines remain the gold standard for OSA treatment, many patients abandon them due to discomfort or difficulty using them. Shankh blowing offers a low-cost, non-invasive option that patients can practice at home, making it especially valuable in areas where medical devices are scarce. Still, researchers emphasize the need for larger trials before recommending it widely.
Rooted in Indian tradition, this humble ritual might soon stand beside modern therapies as a natural way to improve sleep apnoea and restore restful nights.
