In ancient times, Sri Lanka employed sophisticated air purification techniques that integrated humanity with nature. By uncovering the ancient methods that our ancestors used, we can learn and be reminded of these practices' timeless relevance. As we live in a time where Sri Lanka is facing major air contamination related issues and navigating modern day environmental challenges, revisiting Sri Lanka's heritage provides valuable lessons for sustainable living. It showcases the enduring wisdom of our ancestors, who harmonised with the natural world for health and balance.
Ayurveda and herbal wisdom
Central to traditional Sri Lankan air purification practices is Ayurveda, the ancient system of medicine that originated in the Indian Subcontinent over 5,000 years ago. Ayurveda, which translates to the "science of life", emphasises the balance between the body, the mind, and the environment. Sri Lankans harnessed the power of medicinal herbs and plants known for their air purifying qualities, burning them to cleanse the air of pathogens and negative energy.
Sandalwood (Santalum album)
Revered for its divine fragrance, it has been used for centuries in rituals and for medicinal purposes. When burned, sandalwood releases a soothing aroma that purifies the air, promotes mental clarity, and calms the mind.
Neem (Azadirachta indica)
Neem leaves, known for their potent antibacterial and antiviral properties, were often used in ancient Sri Lankan practices for air purification. Burning neem leaves is thought to cleanse the air of harmful pathogens and promote a healthier environment.
Citronella (Cymbopogon nardus)
The oil derived from citronella grass is widely recognised for its mosquito repellent qualities. However, beyond its insect- repelling capabilities, citronella is also used for air purification, emitting a refreshing, lemony scent that revitalises the air and deters airborne pests.
Eucalyptus (Eucalyptus globulus)
The leaves of the eucalyptus tree, when burned or vaporised, release a potent, minty aroma rich in cineole, a compound known for its antimicrobial properties. This makes eucalyptus an effective natural agent for air purification, capable of clearing the air of germs and promoting respiratory health.
Frankincense (Boswellia sacra)
The frankincense resin, obtained from the Boswellia tree, has a long history of use in Ayurveda and spiritual practices. When burned, frankincense releases a robust, aromatic smoke that purifies the air, reduces stress, and elevates the spirit.
Myrrh (Commiphora myrrha)
Like frankincense, the myrrh resin has been used for its purifying and healing properties for millennia. Burning myrrh is said to cleanse the air, eliminate negative energy, and foster a sense of peace and well-being.
Lemongrass (Cymbopogon citratus)
Its strong citrus scent is used in cooking and air purification practices. It is believed to help sanitize the air, repel insects, and impart a refreshing and uplifting atmosphere to any space.
Traditional architecture and natural ventilation
Ancient Sri Lankan architecture, particularly in constructing residential homes, open buildings, and temples, demonstrated a profound understanding of environmental sustainability and natural air purification. The design principles focused on optimising the natural light and air flow to create living spaces that remained cool and purified throughout the year.
Cross ventilation
The walauwa is a traditional Sri Lankan manor house that exemplifies cross ventilation. These residences were built with high ceilings and aligned windows on opposite walls, allowing air to flow freely across the rooms. This design facilitated a cooling effect throughout the house and ensured that fresh air circulated continuously, displacing stale air and reducing pollutants.
Central courtyards: The "meda midula" in ancient temples and homes
A hallmark of traditional Sri Lankan architecture, the central courtyard, known as the "meda midula," is a feature in ancient homes and religious buildings. One iconic example is the Dalada Maligawa (Temple of the Tooth Relic) in Kandy, where the courtyards serve as serene spaces for reflection and meditation, besides promoting natural air circulation. These open air courtyards, often adorned with vegetation, allowed sunlight to filter through and air to circulate, creating a microclimate that cooled and purified the surrounding indoor spaces.
Water features
Sigiriya Rock Fortress
The Sigiriya Rock Fortress, a masterpiece of ancient urban planning, integrates sophisticated water gardens that demonstrate the early use of water features for environmental cooling and aesthetic purposes. The moats, pools, and fountains in Sigiriya enhanced the royal complex's beauty. They played a role in cooling the air as it passed over the water surfaces before entering residential and ceremonial spaces.
The Polonnaruwa Ancient City
In the medieval Capital of Polonnaruwa, the remains of the royal palace and the surrounding City layout reflect the strategic use of water bodies and reservoirs. These water features were central to the City's design, contributing to the area's cooling and serving as functional irrigation and for daily use related elements.
The role of indoor plants
Long before "indoor air quality" became a modern concern, ancient Sri Lankans intuitively used indoor plants in indoor spaces and indoor open spaces to purify air. Including greenery in living spaces served aesthetic and functional purposes, with plants like Aloe Vera (Aloe barbadensis miller), the Areca Palm (Dypsis lutescens), and the Snake Plant (Sansevieria trifasciata) favoured for their ability to absorb toxins and produce oxygen.
Aloe Vera
Aloe Vera is renowned for its ability to help remove formaldehyde (a colourless, highly toxic, and flammable gas at room temperature) from the air. Beyond its air cleaning properties, it is also celebrated for its medicinal uses, including skin healing and moisturising. Traditionally, Aloe Vera was kept in kitchens or living areas to purify its qualities and for availability as a remedy for burns and cuts, showcasing its dual functionality.
The Areca Palm
The Areca Palm effectively removes carbon dioxide and converts it into oxygen, contributing significantly to indoor air quality. It is especially prized for its ability to humidify indoor air, making it beneficial in dry climates or environments. Often placed in living spaces for its lush appearance and air humidifying properties, the Areca Palm created a more comfortable and visually appealing living environment, demonstrating an early understanding of a biophilic (relating to, showing, or being the human tendency to interact or be closely associated with other forms of life in nature) design.
Snake Plant
Unique among indoor plants, the Snake Plant can perform photosynthesis under low light conditions and release oxygen predominantly at night. It is known for filtering out formaldehyde, benzene (a chemical that is a colourless or light yellow liquid at room temperature, which has a sweet odour and is highly flammable), and other harmful toxins. They are placed in bedrooms or living areas. The Snake Plant was valued for its aesthetic appeal and contribution to a healthier sleeping environment, acting as a natural air purifier that works at night.
Spiritual and cultural practices
The spiritual and cultural practices of ancient civilisations, including Sri Lanka, often incorporated natural elements believed to purify the air and enhance spiritual well-being.
Buddhist temples
The Pirith ceremony, involving the chanting of Buddhist scriptures, often uses incense sticks made from sandalwood or jasmine. The smoke from these incense sticks is believed to purify the air, creating a sanctified environment conducive to meditation and spiritual upliftment.
Hindu temples
Hindu rituals in our country and across the Indian Subcontinent frequently use camphor and incense during puja (worship). Camphor, when burned, produces a fragrant smoke that is believed to purify the air and ward off negative energies, facilitating a connection with the divine.
Ayurvedic practices
Agnihotra, an ancient Vedic (the religion of the ancient Indo-European speaking peoples who entered India about 1500 Before the Common Era from the region of Iran, which takes its name from the collections of sacred texts known as the Vedas) ritual performed at sunrise and sunset, involves offering specific substances to the fire, including ghee (clarified butter) and rice grains, while chanting Vedic mantras. The smoke generated is considered to possess medicinal properties that purify the air, supporting environmental and personal health.
Traditional Sri Lankan homes
In traditional Sri Lankan households, it was common to light incense made from natural materials like cinnamon, clove, and citronella in the early morning and dusk. This practice was not only for spiritual cleansing but also for its mosquito repellent properties and its ability to purify the indoor air.
Looking back at our ancient air purification methods, we can see a deep respect for nature and a legacy of sustainable living. The ancient Sri Lankans demonstrated a harmonious balance with the environment by using medicinal herbs, designing homes for natural ventilation, and incorporating indoor plants. This rich heritage, a source of national pride, provides timeless wisdom for today's sustainability related challenges. By embracing these traditional practices, we honour our ancestors while guiding the way towards a sustainable and harmonious future.
(The writer is an electronics engineer with a background in information technology and sustainability)
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The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the author, and do not necessarily reflect those of this publication.