Ayurveda and Physical Ailments

We have already discussed that Ayurveda is a collective knowledge of the five universal elements and how they express themselves in the human body in the form of the three doshas Vata, Pitta, and Kapha. The Ayurvedic concept of Tridosha can also be applied to explain the development of chronic diseases. Any imbalance in the optimal level of the three doshas can lead to physical ailments and chronic diseases such as Diabetes, Arthritis, and more. Let’s take a look at some of these ailments and what Ayurvedic remedies and treatments are used to prevent or treat these ailments.

• Diabetes:  Several Ayurvedic herbs and remedies can significantly lower glucose levels. Regular consumption of Karela (Bitter Gourd) juice helps control blood sugar levels and healthy cholesterol due to its richness in hypoglycemic biochemical substances. Bitter Melon also has anti-diabetic properties as it contains polypeptide-p, which naturally reduces blood sugar levels. Ayurvedic practitioners also recommend including other Ayurvedic ingredients such as Turmeric Powder, Indian Gooseberry (Amla), Curry Leaves, and Black Plum (Jamun)  in the diets of diabetic people.

• Arthritis: As mentioned above, Abhyanga performed with Murivenna oil is particularly effective for joint and tissue healing as it helps ease the soreness and tenderness of joints. Ayurvedic practitioners often recommend the consumption of Garlic, Ginger, Winter Cherry (Ashwagandha), and Indian frankincense (Boswellia Serrata). Studies show that Ayurvedic remedies and practices can help reduce inflammation, ease arthritis symptoms, and limit flare-ups.

• BP: In Ayurveda, Vata, one of the three doshas, is responsible for regulating blood circulation. Hypertension can be attributed to an impairment in the level of Vata dosha in an individual. Ayurveda emphasizes lifestyle and dietary changes to regulate blood pressure and prevent Coronary Heart Disease. Terminalia arjuna is an ayurvedic herb consumed as powders and devotions. Its cardioprotective traits and anti-hypertensive compounds help alleviate physical and emotional stress, normalize blood pressure, and ease stiffened blood vessels. Other herbs such as Holy Basil (Tulsi), Indian Snakeroot (Sarpagandha), and Indian Gooseberry (Amla) contain anti-inflammatory and antioxidant elements that help regulate blood pressure.

• Digestion: According to Ayurveda, both your physiological and psychological health can be affected due to problems related to digestion. As it is no secret that a healthy gut is a secret to a healthy body and mind. When the three malas or waste materials, sweat, urine, and faeces, accumulate in excess, they damage tissues and produce various digestive problems such as lack of eating, bloated stomach, gas, indigestion, acidity, and erratic bowel movements, among others.

• Ayurvedic herbs such as Hartaki (Terminalia chebula) and Isabgol(Plantago Ovata) help reduce constipation, cholesterol and regulate bowel movements. Amla is widely used in herbal remedies to cure acidity. Other common ingredients such as ginger, Hing (Asafoetida), black pepper, cloves, and more are used to treat gastric and indigestion problems.