Ayurveda treatment of chronic Gastritis by prescribing medicinal herbs and dietary recommendations
Gastritis is inflammation of the internal wall of the stomach which we refer as “mucosal membrane” and its due to prolonged or chronic acidity issues. In any healthy individual, where there are nil issues regards digestion, this mucosal membrane protects the stomach wall against harmful abrasions of stomach acid and patient feels at ease always. But in any patient, where due to chronic acidity issues, the mucosal membrane gets damaged, it leads to abrasion on internal wall of stomach as well and this can further cause many serious health problems if not addressed in time.
Gastritis is classified into following types:
- Type A Gastritis (autoimmune)
- Type B Gastritis (H. Pylori related)
- Type AB Gastritis (Mixed / idiopathic gastritis related)
In the perspective of ayurveda medical science, gastritis is called as “Urdhvaga amlapitta roga” and it primarily is the result of imbalance in the physiology of pitta dosha. The clinical diagnosis of Urdhvaga amalpitta roga is directly related with symptoms like sour eructation, burning sensation in abdomen, giddiness, thirst and sweating. And during acute stages, when the illness has not acquired chronic stages, the symptom are like indigestion, nausea, burning sensation in esophagus, anorexia, flatulence, abdominal heaviness. Also due to imbalance in the digestive physiology of stomach, the time gets more delayed for the food to pass out from the stomach into next path and this delayed time encourages further the development of “amavisha” and its this very prime reason, why following a sincere dietary regimen is recommended the most towards enabling holistic health benefits.
In Ayurveda, gastritis is understood as an imbalance in the digestive fire (Agni) and an excess of the Pitta dosha, which governs digestion and metabolism. Ayurveda views gastritis as a result of various factors that disturb the natural harmony of the digestive system, leading to inflammation of the gastric mucosa. Here’s an original explanation of the Ayurvedic understanding of gastritis:
**1. Aggravation of Pitta Dosha:
- Gastritis in Ayurveda is often associated with an aggravation of the Pitta dosha. Pitta, representing the fire element, is responsible for the digestion and transformation of food. When Pitta becomes imbalanced, it can lead to an excessive production of digestive acids, causing irritation and inflammation of the stomach lining.
**2. Impaired Digestive Fire (Mandagni):
- Ayurveda emphasizes the importance of a balanced digestive fire (Agni) for optimal digestion. Gastritis may occur when there is a weakening of the digestive fire, known as Mandagni. This impairment can result in incomplete digestion and the accumulation of toxins (Ama) in the digestive system.
**3. Unhealthy Dietary Habits (Viruddha Ahara):
- Ayurveda recognizes the role of improper dietary habits in the development of gastritis. Consuming incompatible food combinations, excessive spicy, oily, or acidic foods, and irregular eating patterns can contribute to Pitta imbalance and digestive disturbances.
**4. Stress and Emotional Factors (Manasika Hetu):
- Mental and emotional factors play a significant role in Ayurvedic understanding of gastritis. Chronic stress, anxiety, and emotional disturbances are believed to disturb the balance of doshas, particularly Pitta, and can manifest as gastritis.
**5. Toxins and Ama Formation:
- The accumulation of undigested food particles and toxins (Ama) in the digestive tract is considered a contributing factor in gastritis. Ama can obstruct the channels and impair the normal functioning of the digestive system.
**6. Excessive Intake of Hot Foods (Ushna Ahara):
- Consuming excessively hot and spicy foods, which are considered Ushna (hot) in Ayurveda, can contribute to the aggravation of Pitta and lead to inflammation in the stomach lining.
**7. Dysfunctional Agni (Vishamagni):
- Ayurveda recognizes the concept of Vishamagni, irregular or fluctuating digestive fire. This can result in periods of hyperacidity and indigestion, contributing to the development of gastritis.
**8. Genetic Predisposition (Kulaja Vikara):
- Ayurveda acknowledges the influence of genetic factors in certain health conditions. Individuals with a family history of digestive disorders may have a predisposition to gastritis.
**9. Seasonal and Environmental Factors (Kala Parinama):
- Changes in seasons and exposure to environmental factors can impact the balance of doshas and contribute to digestive disturbances. Ayurveda considers these factors in understanding the causative agents of gastritis.
**10. Altered Bowel Habits (Ati Vyavaya): – Irregular bowel habits, such as constipation or diarrhea, can contribute to the accumulation of toxins and aggravate Pitta, leading to gastritis.
Ayurvedic management of gastritis involves addressing the root causes, balancing the doshas, and restoring the integrity of the digestive system. Treatment may include dietary modifications, lifestyle changes, stress management, herbal formulations, and cleansing therapies to eliminate toxins. A personalized approach, considering an individual’s constitution (Prakriti) and imbalances, is crucial for effective gastritis management in Ayurveda.
Ayurveda, an ancient system of medicine, offers holistic approaches to address chronic gastritis by balancing the body’s doshas (Vata, Pitta, and Kapha) and promoting overall well-being. Keep in mind that these remedies are intended to complement professional medical advice and should not replace consultation with a healthcare provider. Here are some Ayurvedic home remedies for chronic gastritis:
Dietary Guidelines:
- Favor a Pitta-pacifying diet: Include cooling foods like cucumber, mint, coriander, and fennel. Avoid hot and spicy foods, citrus fruits, and caffeinated beverages.
- Emphasize cooked foods: Opt for easily digestible, warm, and well-cooked meals. Incorporate grains like rice and oats, and well-cooked vegetables.
Herbal Infusions:
- Licorice (Yashtimadhu): Boil licorice root in water and drink the decoction. It has anti-inflammatory properties and helps soothe the stomach lining.
- Ginger (Adrak): Prepare ginger tea by boiling fresh ginger slices in water. Ginger aids digestion and reduces inflammation.
Ayurvedic Formulations:
- Aloe Vera Juice (Kumari Saar): Drink fresh aloe vera juice, which has cooling properties and promotes healing of the digestive tract.
- Triphala Churna: Mix Triphala powder in warm water and consume before bedtime. Triphala helps in detoxification and promotes digestive health.
Herbal Supplements:
- Shatavari (Asparagus racemosus): This herb supports the digestive system and helps in reducing inflammation. Consume Shatavari powder with warm milk.
- Amalaki (Indian Gooseberry): Amalaki is rich in Vitamin C and has antioxidant properties. It helps in healing the stomach lining.
Ayurvedic Lifestyle Practices:
- Regular Routine (Dinacharya): Maintain a regular daily routine, including fixed meal times and adequate sleep. This helps in balancing the doshas.
- Yoga and Pranayama: Practice gentle yoga postures and deep-breathing exercises like Pranayama to calm the mind and aid digestion.
Ghee (Clarified Butter):
- Consume a small amount of ghee daily: Ghee helps in lubricating the digestive tract, reducing inflammation, and supporting digestion.
Mint Leaves (Pudina):
- Chew fresh mint leaves: Mint has cooling properties and can provide relief from inflammation. It also aids in digestion.
Hydration:
- Coriander Water (Dhania Water): Boil coriander seeds in water and drink the infused water. It helps in soothing the stomach lining.
Remember to consult with an Ayurvedic practitioner or healthcare professional before starting any new regimen, especially if you have pre-existing health conditions or are on medication. Individual responses to remedies may vary, and it’s essential to personalize the approach based on your unique constitution and symptoms.
Symptoms of Chronic gastritis:
- Chronic indigestion in which even lightly digestible food substances create inconveniences for patient in getting digested. Patient feels heaviness in the stomach and pain as well
- patient feels very low on appetite and also very low in interest towards having food
- nausea accompanied with vomiting as well particularly in mornings
- black colored stools as blood is mixed from the stomach wall
- sharp shooting pain in upper side of abdomen
- flatulence and fullness in the stomach, even if patient is not taking any meals
In Ayurveda, the symptoms of gastritis are understood in the context of doshic imbalances, primarily an aggravation of the Pitta dosha and disturbances in the digestive system. Ayurveda recognizes a range of symptoms that indicate the presence of gastritis, reflecting the underlying doshic disturbances. Here’s an original explanation of the symptoms of gastritis in Ayurveda:
**1. Agnimandya (Digestive Weakness):
- Ayurveda describes Agnimandya as a weakened digestive fire. Individuals with gastritis may experience a reduction in appetite, sluggish digestion, and a feeling of fullness even after consuming small meals.
**2. Amlodgara (Sour Belching):
- Sour belching or regurgitation is a common symptom of Pitta aggravation in the stomach. It may be accompanied by a sour taste in the mouth, indicative of increased acidity.
**3. Pitta Prakopa (Pitta Aggravation):
- Pitta dosha governs the digestive system, and its aggravation in gastritis can lead to symptoms such as heartburn, acid reflux, and a burning sensation in the stomach.
**4. Vidaha (Burning Sensation):
- Individuals with gastritis may experience a burning sensation in the upper abdomen, particularly after meals. This sensation is associated with increased gastric acidity.
**5. Graham (Nausea):
- Nausea is a common symptom of gastritis in Ayurveda. It may be accompanied by an aversion to food and an unsettled feeling in the stomach.
**6. Vibandha (Constipation):
- Disturbed bowel habits, particularly constipation, can be a symptom of gastritis. Pitta imbalance may affect the smooth functioning of the digestive tract.
**7. Gaurava (Heaviness):
- Individuals with gastritis often complain of a feeling of heaviness in the stomach, especially after eating. This heaviness is indicative of impaired digestion.
**8. Shula (Abdominal Pain):
- Pitta aggravation can lead to abdominal pain, characterized by a sharp or burning sensation. The pain may be localized in the upper abdomen.
**9. Malabaddhata (Irregular Stool):
- Gastritis may cause irregularities in bowel movements, leading to symptoms such as loose stools or a combination of constipation and diarrhea.
**10. Avipaka (Indigestion): – Indigestion is a key symptom of gastritis. It involves a sense of incomplete digestion, bloating, and discomfort in the abdomen after eating.
**11. Trishna (Thirst): – Increased thirst may be observed in individuals with gastritis due to the elevated heat and acidity associated with Pitta aggravation.
**12. Mukha Shosha (Dryness of the Mouth): – Pitta imbalance can result in dryness of the mouth and a feeling of increased heat. This symptom may contribute to an increased desire for cold beverages.
**13. Paka Ati Daurbalya (Weak Digestive Capacity): – Weakness and fatigue related to impaired digestion may manifest as a sense of overall debility and reduced energy levels.
**14. Vitiation of Other Doshas: – Depending on the individual’s constitution, other doshas may also become imbalanced. Vata-related symptoms such as bloating and gas or Kapha-related symptoms like mucus in the stool may be present.
It’s important to note that the severity and combination of symptoms can vary among individuals, and Ayurvedic practitioners consider the overall health, constitution (Prakriti), and specific imbalances of each person when assessing symptoms and recommending a personalized approach to treatment. If someone suspects they have gastritis, it is advisable to consult with a qualified Ayurvedic practitioner for a thorough evaluation and guidance on appropriate interventions.
Causes of Chronic gastritis
For maintaning a good digestion and a good health overall, its very pivotal for the digestive fire “jathragni” to be in normal state and perform all its physiological duties sincerely. But when due to irregular dietary / lifestyle regimen, this jathragni gets imbalanced, it leads to vitiation in the vata, pitta and kapha doshas as well. Now depending upon the doshas involvement and the site of origin, patient starts feeling ill from the same physiological perspective. Improper agni leads to fermentation of food particles and leading towards development of a harmful toxic material called as “amavisha”. Further continuous indulgence in bad dietary habits and not addressing the concerns of “amavisha”, it then further aggravates the pitta dosha and which in turn starts damaging the internal mucosal membrane of stomach wall which causes chronic gastritis. Now if this stomach lininh becomes damaged / weak, then digestive juices will further cause inflammation of the internal stomach wall.
Some of the causes leading to developmennt of gastritis are as follows:
- continuously intake of irregular / incompatible food items which are harsh for the stomach
- excessive stress in life
- too much consumption of oily and spice food items
- too much intake of alcohol
- too much intake of steroids and pain killers as these tend to damage the mucosal membrane of stomach
- intake of carbonated and caffeinated drinks
- intake of cocaine
In Ayurveda, gastritis is considered a result of imbalances in the doshas, primarily an aggravation of the Pitta dosha, and disruptions in the overall digestive system. The causes of gastritis in Ayurveda are multifaceted and often involve a combination of dietary, lifestyle, and psychological factors. Here’s an original explanation of the causes of gastritis in Ayurveda:
**1. Ahara (Dietary Factors):
- Viruddha Ahara (Incompatible Diet): Consuming incompatible food combinations, such as mixing hot and cold foods or incompatible food items, can disturb the digestive fire (Agni) and contribute to gastritis.
- Ushna Ahara (Hot Foods): Excessive intake of hot, spicy, and pungent foods can lead to the aggravation of Pitta dosha, resulting in inflammation of the stomach lining.
**2. Vihaar (Lifestyle Factors):
- Ati Vyavaya (Excessive Sexual Activity): Engaging in excessive sexual activity without proper recovery may lead to the depletion of vital energies and contribute to Pitta aggravation.
- Divasvapna (Daytime Sleep): Daytime sleep or irregular sleep patterns can disturb the circadian rhythm and disrupt the balance of doshas, including Pitta.
**3. Manasika (Psychological Factors):
- Chinta (Worry and Anxiety): Chronic stress, worry, and anxiety are significant contributors to Pitta aggravation. Psychological factors can influence the digestive fire and contribute to the development of gastritis.
- Krodha (Anger): Experiencing intense anger and frustration can lead to an increase in heat and acidity in the digestive system, potentially causing inflammation.
**4. Kala (Seasonal Factors):
- Varsha Ritu (Rainy Season): Gastritis may be more prevalent during the rainy season, as the changes in weather can affect digestion. Consuming contaminated or improperly stored food during this time may contribute to digestive disturbances.
**5. Bhaya (Fear):
- Adhyatmika Bhaya (Psychological Fear): Fear and emotional disturbances can influence the balance of doshas. Fearful emotions may contribute to an imbalance in Pitta, leading to gastritis.
**6. Ajeerna (Indigestion):
- Vishamagni (Irregular Digestive Fire): Irregularities in the digestive fire, such as Vishamagni, can result in incomplete digestion and the accumulation of toxins (Ama), contributing to gastritis.
**7. Kshaya (Depletion):
- Vyayama Kshaya (Excessive Exercise): Excessive physical exertion without proper recovery can lead to depletion of the body’s resources and disturb the balance of doshas, including Pitta.
**8. Ama Dosha (Toxins):
- Ama Sanchaya (Accumulation of Toxins): The accumulation of undigested food particles and toxins in the digestive system, known as Ama, can obstruct the channels and contribute to gastritis.
**9. Visheshena Ahara (Specific Diets):
- Adhyashana (Overeating): Consuming large quantities of food in one sitting can overwhelm the digestive system, leading to incomplete digestion and the production of toxins.
**10. Prakriti Dosha (Constitutional Factors): – Pitta Prakriti (Pitta Constitution): Individuals with a predominant Pitta constitution are more susceptible to Pitta-related imbalances, including gastritis. The inherent Pitta qualities may be exacerbated by external factors.
**11. Parinama (Natural Changes): – Jarana Parinama (Aging): Aging is a natural process that can influence the digestive capacity. As individuals age, there may be a natural decline in digestive strength, potentially contributing to gastritis.
Understanding the causes of gastritis in Ayurveda involves considering a holistic view that encompasses dietary, lifestyle, psychological, and environmental factors. A personalized approach, addressing the unique constitution and imbalances of each individual, is crucial for effective prevention and management of gastritis. Consulting with a qualified Ayurvedic practitioner allows for tailored recommendations based on the specific needs of the individual.
The primary medicinal herbs which are used as ingredients in the ayurveda formulation for the treatment protocol of Chronic gastritis patient are as follows:
- Agnimanth (Premna serratifolia)
- Agaru (Aquilaria malaccensis)
- Ela (Elettaria cardamomum)
- Aragwadha (Cassia fistula)
- Ashwagandha (Withania somnifra)
- Pippali (Piper longum)
- Matulunga (Citrus medica)
- Jeerak (Cuminum cyminum)
- Talisa (Abies webbiana)
- Vrikshamla (Garcinia indica)
- Khadir (Acacia catechu)
- Saindhava lavana (Rock salt)
- Lodhra (Symplocos racemos)
- Vacha (Acorus calamus)
- Chitrak (Plumbago zeylanica)
- Sarireyak (Barleria prionitis)
- Ardraka (Zingiber officinale)
- Amalki (Phyllathus emblica)
- Shalmali (Salmalia malabarica)
- Arka (Calotropis gigantea)
- Atibala (Abutilon indicum)
- Dhanyaka (Coriandrum sativum)
- Twak (Cinnamomum verum)
- kakmachi (Solanum nigrum)
- Haritaki (Terminalia chebula)
In Ayurveda, various medicinal plants are employed to address gastritis by pacifying the aggravated Pitta dosha, promoting digestive health, and reducing inflammation in the stomach lining. Here’s an original explanation of some medicinal plants commonly used in Ayurveda for gastritis:
- Aloe Vera (Kumari):
- Properties: Aloe Vera is known for its cooling and soothing properties.
- Usage: Aloe Vera juice is often used to alleviate inflammation in the stomach and promote digestive healing in cases of gastritis.
- Licorice (Yashtimadhu):
- Properties: Licorice has anti-inflammatory and demulcent properties.
- Usage: Yashtimadhu is used to soothe the mucous membranes of the digestive tract and reduce irritation in gastritis.
- Indian Gooseberry (Amla):
- Properties: Amla is rich in vitamin C and has antioxidant properties.
- Usage: Amla is used to support digestive health, strengthen the digestive fire, and reduce inflammation in the stomach.
- Neem (Nimba):
- Properties: Neem has antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties.
- Usage: Neem may be used to address infections and inflammation in the digestive tract associated with gastritis.
- Turmeric (Haridra):
- Properties: Turmeric is known for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
- Usage: Haridra is used to reduce inflammation in the stomach lining and promote overall digestive well-being.
- Ginger (Shunthi):
- Properties: Ginger has anti-inflammatory and carminative properties.
- Usage: Shunthi is often used to alleviate digestive discomfort, reduce inflammation, and stimulate digestion in gastritis.
- Fennel (Shatapushpa):
- Properties: Fennel has cooling and digestive properties.
- Usage: Shatapushpa is used to soothe the digestive tract, reduce acidity, and alleviate symptoms of gastritis.
- Coriander (Dhanya):
- Properties: Coriander has cooling and anti-inflammatory properties.
- Usage: Dhanya is used to reduce inflammation, pacify Pitta, and support digestive health in gastritis.
- Mint (Pudina):
- Properties: Mint has cooling and carminative properties.
- Usage: Pudina is used to alleviate indigestion, reduce acidity, and provide relief from gastritis symptoms.
- Chamomile (Matricaria chamomilla):
- Properties: Chamomile has anti-inflammatory and calming properties.
- Usage: Chamomile tea is often used to soothe the digestive system, reduce inflammation, and promote relaxation in cases of gastritis.
- Bael (Bilva):
- Properties: Bael has cooling and digestive properties.
- Usage: Bilva is used to soothe the stomach lining, reduce acidity, and support overall digestive health.
- Cumin (Jeeraka):
- Properties: Cumin has digestive and carminative properties.
- Usage: Jeeraka is used to enhance digestion, reduce bloating, and alleviate symptoms of gastritis.
It’s important to note that the use of these medicinal plants may vary based on an individual’s constitution, specific imbalances, and the severity of gastritis. Ayurvedic practitioners often formulate personalized herbal remedies based on the unique needs of each person. Consulting with a qualified Ayurvedic practitioner ensures safe and effective use of these medicinal plants for gastritis management.
Over the counter ayurveda medications prescribed for Chronic gastritis:
- Sootshekhara rasa
- Chywanaprash
- Shankha vati
- Mahashankh vati
- Lavanabaskar choorna
- Tiktaham kashayam
- Chinchadi leha
- giloy satva
- amalki rasayanam
- Dhanwantram vatika
- dadimadi ghritam
- drakshadi ghritam
- Sukumara kashayam
- chitrakadi vati
- Ayaskriti
- Lohasava
- Drakshadyavelha
In Ayurveda, several herbal formulations and medications are used to manage gastritis by addressing the underlying imbalances in the doshas, particularly Pitta, and promoting digestive health. Here’s an original explanation of some commonly used Ayurvedic medications for gastritis:
Avipattikara Churna:
- Composition: Avipattikara Churna is a herbal powder consisting of ingredients like Amla (Indian Gooseberry), Haritaki (Terminalia chebula), Vibhitaki (Terminalia bellirica), and others.
- Usage: Avipattikara Churna is known for its cooling properties and is often used to alleviate acidity, indigestion, and symptoms associated with gastritis.
Yashtimadhu (Licorice) Ghrita:
- Composition: Yashtimadhu Ghrita is a medicated ghee prepared with Licorice and other herbs.
- Usage: Yashtimadhu Ghrita is used to soothe inflammation in the digestive tract and promote healing in cases of gastritis.
Kamdudha Rasa:
- Composition: Kamdudha Rasa is a classical Ayurvedic formulation containing ingredients like Mukta Bhasma (Pearl ash) and Praval Bhasma (Coral ash).
- Usage: Kamdudha Rasa is known for its cooling and Pitta-pacifying properties. It is used to alleviate burning sensations, acidity, and inflammation associated with gastritis.
Shankha Vati:
- Composition: Shankha Vati is a tablet formulation containing Shankha Bhasma (Conch shell ash) and other herbal ingredients.
- Usage: Shankha Vati is used to reduce acidity, indigestion, and abdominal discomfort. It helps in balancing the digestive fire.
Kutajarishta:
- Composition: Kutajarishta is a fermented herbal preparation containing Kutaja (Holarrhena antidysenterica) and other herbs.
- Usage: Kutajarishta is known for its digestive and anti-inflammatory properties. It is used to manage various digestive disorders, including gastritis.
Pittashekhar Rasa:
- Composition: Pittashekhar Rasa contains ingredients like Shuddha Parada (Purified Mercury) and Shuddha Gandhaka (Purified Sulphur).
- Usage: Pittashekhar Rasa is used to balance Pitta, reduce acidity, and alleviate symptoms of gastritis.
Dhatri Lauha:
- Composition: Dhatri Lauha contains Amla (Indian Gooseberry) and Lauha Bhasma (Iron ash).
- Usage: Dhatri Lauha is used to support digestive health, enhance the appetite, and reduce inflammation in the stomach lining.
Jeerakarishta:
- Composition: Jeerakarishta is a fermented preparation containing Jeeraka (Cumin), Ajwain (Carom seeds), and other herbs.
- Usage: Jeerakarishta is known for its digestive and carminative properties. It is used to improve digestion and reduce abdominal discomfort in gastritis.
Amlapittantak Ras:
- Composition: Amlapittantak Ras contains ingredients like Shuddha Parada (Purified Mercury) and Shuddha Gandhaka (Purified Sulphur).
- Usage: Amlapittantak Ras is used to balance Pitta, reduce hyperacidity, and provide relief from symptoms of gastritis.
Pudina Ark (Peppermint Distillate):
- Composition: Pudina Ark is a distilled extract of Peppermint leaves.
- Usage: Pudina Ark is known for its cooling properties and is used to alleviate acidity, indigestion, and provide a soothing effect on the digestive system.
It’s essential to note that the use of Ayurvedic medications for gastritis should be done under the guidance of a qualified Ayurvedic practitioner. The choice of medication depends on an individual’s constitution, specific imbalances, and the severity of symptoms. Consulting with an Ayurvedic professional allows for personalized and effective management of gastritis.
Ayurveda treatment of Chronic gastritis at Nakra Ayurveda Hospitals and Herbals Pvt Ltd
We not only share the dietary recommendations, but also general health counselling too is implemented so the root cause of patient can be addressed and complete normalization in basic metabolism be done. Ayurveda treatment of gastritis / amalpitta is all done on the lines of normalization of jathragni which shall further lead to normal physiology in both rasa dhatu and rakta dhatu.
In ayurveda medical science, herbal medicinal plants are used and its this very prime reason why we are able to achieve health benefits even in such chronic of ailments and with nil side effects in any regards. These prescribed ayurveda medicines depends on the age of the person concerned and the stage of the disease.
Ayurvedic treatment for gastritis involves a holistic approach that aims to balance the doshas, particularly Pitta, and restore the harmony of the digestive system. The treatment modalities in Ayurveda focus on addressing the root causes, improving digestive function, and providing relief from symptoms. Here’s an original explanation of the treatment types for gastritis in Ayurveda:
Dietary Modifications (Ahara Chikitsa):
- Cooling Foods: Emphasis is placed on incorporating cooling and soothing foods to pacify aggravated Pitta. This includes fresh fruits like melons, cucumber, and sweet berries, as well as leafy greens.
- Avoidance of Spicy and Acidic Foods: Patients are advised to avoid excessively spicy, oily, and acidic foods that can further irritate the stomach lining.
Lifestyle Adjustments (Vihara Chikitsa):
- Regular Meal Times: Maintaining a regular eating schedule helps regulate the digestive fire (Agni) and promotes optimal digestion.
- Stress Management: Techniques such as meditation, deep breathing exercises (Pranayama), and yoga are recommended to manage stress and reduce its impact on digestive health.
Herbal Medications (Aushadhi Chikitsa):
- Pitta-Pacifying Herbs: Ayurvedic formulations containing herbs like Amla (Indian Gooseberry), Yashtimadhu (Licorice), and Shatavari are used to pacify aggravated Pitta and reduce inflammation.
- Digestive Tonics: Herbal formulations such as Avipattikara Churna, Jeerakarishta, and Kutajarishta are prescribed to enhance digestive function and alleviate symptoms of gastritis.
Ayurvedic Detoxification (Panchakarma):
- Virechana (Therapeutic Purgation): Virechana is a cleansing procedure that involves the administration of purgative substances to eliminate excess Pitta and toxins from the body.
- Nasya (Nasal Administration): Nasya therapy, involving the administration of herbal oils or medicated ghee through the nasal passages, is employed to balance the aggravated doshas, especially in the head region.
External Therapies (Bahya Chikitsa):
- Dhara (Pouring of Medicinal Liquids): Dhara involves the continuous pouring of medicated liquids over the forehead or the affected area, providing a cooling and soothing effect to reduce inflammation.
- Abhyanga (Ayurvedic Massage): Ayurvedic massage using cooling oils such as coconut or sandalwood oil is beneficial in calming the nervous system and promoting overall relaxation.
Yoga and Pranayama (Sattvavajaya Chikitsa):
- Surya Namaskar (Sun Salutation): The practice of Surya Namaskar can help regulate the digestive system and reduce stress.
- Sheetali Pranayama (Cooling Breath): Sheetali Pranayama involves inhaling through the rolled tongue, promoting a cooling effect and balancing Pitta.
Rasayana Therapy (Rejuvenation):
- Amalaki Rasayana: Amalaki (Indian Gooseberry) is known for its rejuvenating properties. Amalaki Rasayana is a formulation used to support overall health and strengthen the digestive system.
Dietary Supplements (Ghrita and Guggulu):
- Yashtimadhu Ghrita: Medicated ghee containing Licorice is often used to soothe inflammation in the digestive tract.
- Guggul Preparation: Certain Guggul formulations may be prescribed to balance doshas and support gastrointestinal health.
It’s crucial to note that Ayurvedic treatment for gastritis is personalized, taking into account an individual’s constitution (Prakriti), imbalances (Vikriti), and the specific nature of symptoms. Consulting with a qualified Ayurvedic practitioner is recommended to receive a tailored treatment plan that aligns with the unique needs of the individual.
So if you are having any questions on Chronic gastritis, you are welcome to send us an email and we shall get back to you in just few hours with our detailed analysis and consultation.
