Ayurveda treatment of Gastroenteritis by prescribing illness specific medicinal herbs and dietary recommendations

Causes of Gastroenteritis as per principles of ayurveda:

In Ayurveda, the causes of gastroenteritis, known as “Visuchika,” are attributed to imbalances in the doshas, primarily the aggravation of Pitta dosha. The doshas represent fundamental energies that govern various physiological and psychological functions in the body. The causes of gastroenteritis are multifaceted and are deeply interconnected with Ayurvedic principles.

Here is a detailed explanation on the causes of gastroenteritis along with their relevance in Ayurveda:

1. Viruddha Ahara (Incompatible Diet):

   • Relevance: Ayurveda emphasizes the significance of dietary choices in maintaining balance. Consuming incompatible foods can lead to the formation of ama (toxins) and disrupt the equilibrium of doshas, particularly aggravating Pitta.
   • Cause: Combining incompatible food items such as milk with sour fruits, fish with dairy, or incompatible food combinations.

2. Ati Amla Lavana (Excessive Sour and Salty Foods):

   • Relevance: Excessive intake of sour and salty foods can lead to an increase in Pitta dosha, resulting in the inflammation of the gastrointestinal tract and disrupting the digestive fire.
   • Cause: Consuming an abundance of citrus fruits, pickles, processed foods, and salty snacks.

3. Vishama Bhojana (Irregular Eating Habits):

   • Relevance: Irregular eating patterns can disturb the natural rhythm of digestion, leading to erratic functioning of Agni (digestive fire) and contributing to the accumulation of ama.
   • Cause: Skipping meals, eating at irregular intervals, and having untimely or heavy meals.

4. Ati Vishamashana (Consumption of Contaminated Foods):

   • Relevance: Ingesting contaminated or improperly cooked foods can introduce toxins into the body, causing an imbalance in the doshas and leading to digestive disturbances.
   • Cause: Consuming undercooked or spoiled food, contaminated water, or unhygienically prepared meals.

5. Adhyashana (Overeating):

   • Relevance: Overeating overwhelms the digestive system, leading to an excessive production of digestive enzymes and an imbalance in Pitta dosha. This can result in poor digestion and the formation of ama.
   • Cause: Consuming large quantities of food in a single meal, leading to indigestion.

6. Atiushna (Excessive Heat Exposure):

   • Relevance: Prolonged exposure to excessive heat can aggravate Pitta dosha, leading to inflammation in the digestive tract. It also contributes to the depletion of fluids in the body.
   • Cause: Exposure to high temperatures, prolonged exposure to the sun, or staying in hot environments.

7. Vishamashana-Sankramana (Food Poisoning):

   • Relevance: Consuming food contaminated with toxins or pathogens can lead to an acute onset of gastroenteritis. This cause is directly associated with the introduction of harmful substances into the digestive system.
   • Cause: Food poisoning from bacterial, viral, or parasitic infections due to contaminated food or water.

8. Abhighata (Physical Injury or Trauma):

   • Relevance: Physical injuries or trauma to the abdominal region can disrupt the normal functioning of the digestive organs and lead to an aggravation of Vata dosha, causing gastroenteritis.
   • Cause: Accidental injuries, abdominal trauma, or surgical procedures in the abdominal area.

9. Ati Vyayama (Excessive Physical Exercise):

   • Relevance: While regular exercise is beneficial, excessive physical activity without proper recovery can lead to an increase in metabolic heat and Pitta dosha, contributing to gastroenteritis.
   • Cause: Strenuous or excessive exercise without adequate rest and recovery.

10. Krodha (Anger and Emotional Disturbances):

    • Relevance: Emotional disturbances, especially anger, can disturb the balance of Pitta dosha and contribute to inflammation in the digestive system. Emotional well-being is closely linked to digestive health in Ayurveda.
    • Cause: Unmanaged anger, stress, or emotional upheavals.

Understanding these causes in the context of Ayurveda provides insights into the interconnected nature of dietary, lifestyle, and emotional factors contributing to gastroenteritis. Ayurvedic practitioners focus on identifying the specific causes for each individual, offering personalized guidance to address imbalances, eliminate toxins, and restore harmony to the digestive system.

Illness specific medicinal herbs used in preparing ayurveda medications for treatment of Gastroenteritis:

1. Triphala (Three Fruits):

   • Relevance: Triphala, a combination of three fruits – Amalaki (Emblica officinalis), Bibhitaki (Terminalia bellirica), and Haritaki (Terminalia chebula), is renowned in Ayurveda for its cleansing and detoxifying properties. It helps balance all three doshas, particularly Pitta, and promotes healthy digestion.
   • Usage: Prepare a Triphala decoction by boiling one teaspoon of Triphala powder in a cup of water. Strain and drink this concoction in the evening.
   • Mode of Intake: Consume Triphala after meals to support digestion and regulate bowel movements.

2. Dhanyakadi Kashayam (Coriander Decoction):

   • Relevance: Coriander (Dhanya) is known for its cooling and anti-inflammatory properties. Dhanyakadi Kashayam is used in Ayurveda to soothe the digestive tract and alleviate symptoms of gastroenteritis.
   • Usage: Boil one tablespoon of coriander seeds and a few cumin seeds in four cups of water until the volume reduces by half. Strain and drink this decoction twice a day.
   • Mode of Intake: Consume Dhanyakadi Kashayam between meals to reduce inflammation and ease gastrointestinal discomfort.

3. Kutaja (Holarrhena antidysenterica):

   • Relevance: Kutaja is a well-known herb in Ayurveda for its anti-diarrheal and anti-amoebic properties. It helps in managing symptoms associated with infectious gastroenteritis and dysentery.
   • Usage: Prepare a decoction by boiling Kutaja bark in water. Consume one teaspoon of this decoction twice a day.
   • Mode of Intake: Take Kutaja decoction on an empty stomach to combat diarrhea and alleviate intestinal inflammation.

4. Musta (Cyperus rotundus):

   • Relevance: Musta is valued for its digestive and anti-inflammatory properties in Ayurveda. It helps in regulating bowel movements and reducing abdominal discomfort.
   • Usage: Make a powder of Musta rhizome and mix one teaspoon with honey. Consume this mixture twice a day.
   • Mode of Intake: Take Musta powder with honey before meals to improve digestion and alleviate symptoms of gastroenteritis.

5. Bilva (Aegle marmelos):

   • Relevance: Bilva, also known as Bael, is considered a digestive tonic in Ayurveda. It has anti-inflammatory effects on the gastrointestinal tract and helps in managing diarrhea.
   • Usage: Prepare Bilva juice by extracting the pulp from ripe Bilva fruits. Consume one to two tablespoons of this juice twice a day.
   • Mode of Intake: Take Bilva juice on an empty stomach to soothe the digestive system and promote healing.

6. Nimba (Azadirachta indica):

   • Relevance: Nimba, or Neem, possesses antibacterial and anti-parasitic properties, making it effective in treating gastroenteritis caused by infections.
   • Usage: Prepare a decoction by boiling Neem leaves in water. Consume one cup of this decoction daily.
   • Mode of Intake: Drink Nimba decoction in the morning to purify the blood, combat infections, and support the immune system.

7. Guduchi (Tinospora cordifolia):

   • Relevance: Guduchi is known for its immunomodulatory and anti-inflammatory effects. It helps in enhancing the body’s natural defense mechanisms and reducing inflammation in the gastrointestinal tract.
   • Usage: Take Guduchi powder with warm water or milk. Consume one teaspoon of Guduchi powder twice a day.
   • Mode of Intake: Include Guduchi in your daily routine to boost immunity and aid in the recovery from gastroenteritis.

8. Amalaki (Emblica officinalis):

   • Relevance: Amalaki, or Indian Gooseberry, is a rich source of Vitamin C and antioxidants. It helps in strengthening the digestive system and reducing inflammation.
   • Usage: Consume fresh Amalaki juice or amla powder mixed with honey. Take one teaspoon of Amalaki powder with honey in the morning.
   • Mode of Intake: Include Amalaki in your diet to promote overall health, enhance digestion, and support the healing process.

9. Pomegranate (Punica granatum):

   • Relevance: Pomegranate is known for its astringent properties, making it beneficial in managing diarrhea and inflammation in the digestive tract.
   • Usage: Consume fresh pomegranate seeds or drink pomegranate juice. Include pomegranate in your daily diet.
   • Mode of Intake: Eat fresh pomegranate seeds or drink the juice to alleviate symptoms of gastroenteritis and promote healing.

10. Haritaki (Terminalia chebula):

    • Relevance: Haritaki is a key component of Triphala and is known for its laxative and detoxifying properties. It helps in eliminating toxins from the digestive system.
    • Usage: Take Haritaki powder with warm water. Consume half a teaspoon of Haritaki powder before bedtime.
    • Mode of Intake: Use Haritaki as a gentle laxative to cleanse the intestines and promote regular bowel movements.

It is crucial to consult with an Ayurvedic practitioner before incorporating these medicinal plants into your routine, as individual responses may vary. Additionally, maintaining a balanced and easily digestible diet along with proper lifestyle practices is integral to the holistic management of gastroenteritis in Ayurveda.

Over the counter ayurveda medications prescribed for Gastroenteritis:

Ayurveda offers a variety of herbal medications for managing gastroenteritis, known as “Visuchika.” These formulations aim to balance the doshas, primarily Pitta, and alleviate symptoms associated with gastrointestinal inflammation. It’s essential to note that Ayurvedic treatments are often individualized, and consulting with an Ayurvedic practitioner is recommended for personalized guidance.

Here are some common Ayurvedic medications prescribed for gastroenteritis, along with their relevance, usage, and mode of intake:

1. Kutajarishta:

   • Relevance: Kutajarishta is an Ayurvedic fermented liquid preparation made from the bark of Kutaja (Holarrhena antidysenterica). It is renowned for its anti-diarrheal and anti-amoebic properties, making it effective in managing infectious gastroenteritis.
   • Usage: Take 15-30 ml of Kutajarishta mixed with an equal amount of water after meals.
   • Mode of Intake: Consume Kutajarishta twice a day to control diarrhea, reduce inflammation, and promote overall digestive health.

2. Bilvadi Churna:

   • Relevance: Bilvadi Churna is a powdered formulation containing ingredients like Bilva (Aegle marmelos), Dhataki (Woodfordia fruticosa), and Sunthi (Zingiber officinale). It is beneficial for managing diarrhea, abdominal pain, and inflammation associated with gastroenteritis.
   • Usage: Mix 3-6 grams of Bilvadi Churna with honey and consume twice a day after meals.
   • Mode of Intake: Take Bilvadi Churna to alleviate symptoms of gastroenteritis, regulate bowel movements, and support digestive comfort.

3. Pippalyadi Vati:

   • Relevance: Pippalyadi Vati contains ingredients like Pippali (Piper longum) and Shunthi (Zingiber officinale), known for their digestive and anti-inflammatory properties. This formulation is useful in managing indigestion and abdominal discomfort.
   • Usage: Take 1-2 tablets of Pippalyadi Vati with warm water after meals.
   • Mode of Intake: Consume Pippalyadi Vati to enhance digestion, reduce inflammation, and address symptoms of gastroenteritis.

4. Mustakarishta:

   • Relevance: Mustakarishta is an Ayurvedic fermented liquid preparation containing Musta (Cyperus rotundus) and other herbs. It is known for its anti-inflammatory and carminative properties, making it beneficial for gastroenteritis.
   • Usage: Take 15-30 ml of Mustakarishta mixed with an equal amount of water after meals.
   • Mode of Intake: Use Mustakarishta to improve digestion, reduce abdominal bloating, and alleviate symptoms of gastroenteritis.

5. Dadimashtaka Churna:

   • Relevance: Dadimashtaka Churna is a powdered formulation containing ingredients like Dadima (Punica granatum) and Jeeraka (Cuminum cyminum). It is known for its cooling and anti-inflammatory effects on the digestive system.
   • Usage: Mix 3-6 grams of Dadimashtaka Churna with honey and consume twice a day after meals.
   • Mode of Intake: Take Dadimashtaka Churna to soothe the digestive tract, reduce acidity, and manage symptoms of gastroenteritis.

6. Brihat Gangadhara Churna:

   • Relevance: Brihat Gangadhara Churna is a herbal powder containing ingredients like Gangadhara (Rock salt), Shunthi (Zingiber officinale), and Pippali (Piper longum). It is traditionally used for managing digestive disorders, including gastroenteritis.
   • Usage: Mix 1-2 grams of Brihat Gangadhara Churna with warm water and consume after meals.
   • Mode of Intake: Use Brihat Gangadhara Churna for its digestive and carminative properties to relieve symptoms of gastroenteritis.

7. Bilva Avaleha:

   • Relevance: Bilva Avaleha is a semi-solid formulation containing Bilva (Aegle marmelos) and other herbs. It is beneficial for managing diarrhea, dysentery, and abdominal cramps associated with gastroenteritis.
   • Usage: Consume 5-10 grams of Bilva Avaleha twice a day after meals.
   • Mode of Intake: Take Bilva Avaleha for its soothing effects on the digestive system and its ability to regulate bowel movements.

8. Dhatupaushtik Churna:

   • Relevance: Dhatupaushtik Churna is a powdered formulation that combines various herbs, including Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) and Shatavari (Asparagus racemosus). It is used to strengthen the digestive system and support overall gastrointestinal health.
   • Usage: Mix 3-6 grams of Dhatupaushtik Churna with warm water and consume twice a day after meals.
   • Mode of Intake: Use Dhatupaushtik Churna for its nourishing properties to aid in the recovery from gastroenteritis and promote digestive well-being.

It is important to note that these Ayurvedic medications may have variations in their formulations, and the dosage may be adjusted based on individual needs. Additionally, consulting with an Ayurvedic practitioner is recommended to ensure proper guidance and a tailored approach to managing gastroenteritis based on an individual’s constitution and specific imbalances.

Ayurveda treatment of Gastroenteritis at Nakra Ayurveda Hospitals and Herbals Pvt Ltd

Ayurveda offers a comprehensive approach to treating gastroenteritis, known as “Visuchika,” by addressing the underlying doshic imbalances, supporting digestion, and reducing inflammation in the gastrointestinal tract. The treatment strategies are individualized based on the patient’s constitution (Prakriti), current state of doshic imbalance (Vikriti), and the severity of symptoms.

Here are various types of treatments in Ayurveda for gastroenteritis, along with their relevance, usage, and mode of intake:

1. Shodhana Chikitsa (Detoxification Therapy):

   • Relevance: Shodhana therapies aim to eliminate accumulated toxins (ama) and balance doshas. Panchakarma, a set of detoxification procedures, can be beneficial in treating gastroenteritis by purifying the digestive system.
   • Usage: Panchakarma therapies may include Virechana (therapeutic purgation) and Basti (medicated enema) to eliminate excess Pitta and toxins.
   • Mode of Intake: Undergo Panchakarma therapies under the guidance of a qualified Ayurvedic practitioner after an initial consultation.

2. Shamana Chikitsa (Palliative Therapy):

   • Relevance: Shamana therapies focus on pacifying aggravated doshas and providing symptomatic relief. This approach is suitable for mild to moderate cases of gastroenteritis.
   • Usage: Herbal formulations like Kutajarishta, Bilvadi Churna, or Dadimashtaka Churna are used to soothe the digestive tract, control diarrhea, and reduce inflammation.
   • Mode of Intake: Consume the prescribed herbal formulations as per the dosage recommended by an Ayurvedic practitioner.

3. Dietary Modifications (Pathya Vyavastha):

   • Relevance: Adjusting the diet is crucial in managing gastroenteritis. Follow a diet that is easily digestible, avoids incompatible food combinations, and supports the healing of the digestive system.
   • Usage: Emphasize cooked and warm foods, incorporate herbs like cumin and coriander, and avoid raw, spicy, or heavy-to-digest foods.
   • Mode of Intake: Consume small, frequent meals and maintain proper food hygiene to support the digestive process.

4. Agni Deepana (Kindling the Digestive Fire):

   • Relevance: Strengthening Agni (digestive fire) is essential for proper digestion and absorption of nutrients. Medications and practices that enhance Agni are employed to improve overall digestive function.
   • Usage: Herbal formulations like Pippalyadi Vati or Hingwastak Churna, along with practices like consuming ginger tea, are recommended to kindle Agni.
   • Mode of Intake: Take Agni-enhancing formulations before meals under the guidance of an Ayurvedic practitioner.

5. Srotoshodhana (Channel Cleansing):

   • Relevance: Srotoshodhana focuses on clearing the channels of the body to ensure unobstructed flow and functioning. This helps in preventing the accumulation of toxins in the digestive tract.
   • Usage: Triphala, a combination of three fruits, is commonly used for its srotoshodhana properties. It cleanses the gastrointestinal tract and supports healthy bowel movements.
   • Mode of Intake: Consume Triphala in the form of tablets or powder before bedtime, or as advised by an Ayurvedic practitioner.

6. Rasayana Chikitsa (Rejuvenation Therapy):

   • Relevance: Rasayana therapies focus on promoting overall health, vitality, and rejuvenation. They can be beneficial in the recovery phase of gastroenteritis, aiding in tissue repair and strengthening the immune system.
   • Usage: Formulations containing rejuvenating herbs like Amalaki, Guduchi, and Ashwagandha are commonly used.
   • Mode of Intake: Consume Rasayana formulations as per the guidance of an Ayurvedic practitioner to support recovery and boost overall well-being.

7. Herbal Poultices and Compresses (Lepa and Upanaha):

   • Relevance: External applications of herbal poultices or compresses can help alleviate pain and inflammation in the abdominal region associated with gastroenteritis.
   • Usage: Warm poultices made from herbs like Dashamoola or Nirgundi are applied to the abdomen.
   • Mode of Intake: Apply herbal poultices externally, leaving them on the affected area for a specified duration.

8. Yoga and Pranayama:

   • Relevance: Yogic practices and controlled breathing exercises (Pranayama) help reduce stress, enhance overall well-being, and support the functioning of the digestive system.
   • Usage: Incorporate gentle yoga poses and Pranayama techniques, such as Nadi Shodhana (alternate nostril breathing), into your daily routine.
   • Mode of Intake: Practice yoga and Pranayama regularly under the guidance of a qualified instructor to promote holistic well-being.

It is crucial to note that the choice of treatment modalities in Ayurveda for gastroenteritis depends on the specific symptoms, constitution, and underlying doshic imbalances of the individual. Seeking guidance from a qualified Ayurvedic practitioner is essential for a personalized and effective treatment plan. Additionally, adherence to lifestyle and dietary recommendations is integral to the success of Ayurvedic treatments for gastroenteritis.