What’s This Research About?
This systematic review analyzed 4 randomized controlled trials (RCTs) from 2014–2024 that evaluate the effects and underlying mechanisms of Kapalbhati, a yogic breathing technique involving rapid, forceful exhalations. They examine cognitive and physiological benefits, such as improvements in lung function and mental clarity. The authors also propose complex hypothetical explanations for how kapalbhati can be beneficial.
The authors suggest that modern research is starting to validate ancient yogic claims about Kapalbhati, but this is an overreach—while some physiological and cognitive benefits have been observed, they do not directly confirm the traditional concepts of energetic cleansing or subtle-body effects described in classical texts.
While the authors suggest that Kapalbhati offers measurable physiological and cognitive benefits, these claims are based on just four RCTs of modest quality. The findings are preliminary and do not provide strong empirical support for either traditional yogic claims or modern therapeutic applications—at least not yet.
TITLE: Yogic Bellows, Neural Sparks: Unravelling the Neurophysiological Mechanisms of Kapalbhati-A Systematic Review
PUBLICATION: Annals of Neurosciences Online First
DATE: June 12, 2025
AUTHORS: Arjun Ram Rojhttps, Harish Sharma, Megha Pundir, Ragini Rai, and Sanjib Patrahttps
Kapalbhati: A yogic breathing technique involving rapid, forceful exhalations.
Neuropeptides: Small protein-like molecules that act as chemical messengers in the brain and body. They’re released by neurons (nerve cells) and influence how the brain and nervous system function.
Systematic review: A structured method to collect, assess, and synthesize existing RCTs.
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