Conch Shell Blowing May Help Sleep Apnea

A small clinical trial in India led by Dr. Krishna K Sharma at the Eternal Heart Care Centre and Research Institute in Jaipur found that blowing into a conch shell, or shankh blowing, may significantly reduce symptoms of obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). The study involved 30 adults with moderate OSA who were divided into two groups: one practiced shankh blowing and the other performed deep breathing exercises, both for 15 minutes a day, five days a week, across six months. The shankh blowing group experienced a 34% reduction in daytime sleepiness, higher nighttime blood oxygen levels, and four to five fewer apnea episodes per hour compared to the control group. Researchers believe the unique vibrational and airflow resistance effects from the conch help strengthen upper airway muscles. Since conventional CPAP therapy is often uncomfortable, shankh blowing could serve as a simple, low-cost alternative. Larger studies are needed to confirm these promising findings.