Hemochromatosis is a hereditary condition which leads to abnormal accumulation of iron in different organs of the body leading to organ toxicity. This condition is seen more in the white race and more in males, and is usually due to an excessively high absorption of iron from the intestines. This condition adversely affects the liver, heart, pancreas, pituitary, joints, and skin. The common symptoms of this condition include skin pigmentation, liver cirrhosis, malignant hepatoma, heart failure, diabetes mellitus, impotence, and arthritis. Adequate and timely treatment such as therapeutic phlebotomy (venupuncture) can prevent complications of vital organs and help the affected individual lead a normal life. Iron supplements, red meat and alcohol need to be avoided by individuals affected with this condition.
Ayurvedic herbal treatment for hemochromatosis is aimed at treating the root cause of the condition, preventing toxicity of important organs, and preventing or treating complications from this condition. Herbal medicines are used which have a specific action on the gastrointestinal tract and thereby reduce or prevent excessive absorption of iron from the intestines, thus removing the main cause for the condition. Ayurvedic medicines are also utilised in order to remove the excess iron either through the gastrointestinal tract or through the kidneys.
Medicines which have a specific action on the blood, the circulatory system, the liver and spleen, and the heart, are especially useful in the management and treatment of this condition. Medicines which act on the nervous system may also be required, if involvement of the brain and nervous system is suspected. It is important to avoid medicines which are known to contain iron or increase iron in the body.
Depending upon the severity of the condition, most individuals affected with hemochromatosis require Ayurvedic herbal treatment for periods ranging from 6 to12 months in order to bring about a significant improvement in this condition. Ayurvedic herbal treatment thus has a significant role to play in the management and treatment of hemochromatosis.
The writer, Dr. A. A. Mundewadi, is available as an online Ayurvedic Consultant at www.ayurvedaphysician.com
