Reverse Aging, An Ayurvedic Perspective

 In another article, simple facts about reverse aging have been discussed with respect to modern medicine, as also some practical tips for good health. In this article, the Ayurvedic perspective of reverse aging will be discussed in simple terms and in brief. The question and answer format will be maintained here for ease of understanding.

1) What is Aging?

 In Ayurveda, aging is defined as Jara, something which has become old by the act of wearing out. This denotes a gradual deterioration and decay with the passage of time. Ayurveda mentions human life as having different stages such as childhood (up to 16 years), youth and middle age (ranging from 16 to 60 years), and old age (after 60-70 years), wherein the body elements , sense organs, strength etc begin to deteriorate.

2) How can Aging be measured? 3) What contributes to Aging?

Ayurveda takes into consideration several factors while describing the process of aging. This mainly includes Prana, which is the life energy that performs respiration, oxygenation, and circulation. Prana governs two other subtle essences known as Ojas and Tejas. Ojas is the essence of the seven dhatus or body tissues, and is necessary for longevity since it is responsible for immunity and intelligence. Tejas is the essence of energy and governs metabolism through the enzyme system. Ayurveda also envisions the body into functional elements (tridosha comprising of vata which denotes motion, pitta which denotes metabolism and kapha which denotes structure), and structural elements comprising the seven dhatu and three mala or bodily wastes.

For maintenance of longevity and cellular health, the prana, ojas, tejas, and also the tridosha need to remain in balance. While kapha maintains longevity at the cellular level, pitta governs digestion and nutrition, and vata, which is closely related to pranic life energy, governs all life functions. A disturbed ojas can create kapha or vata related disorders, while tejas, which represents Agni, and if aggravated, can burn away ojas, reduce immunity, and overstimulate pranic activity. Aggravated prana produces degenerative disorders in the dhatu. Reduced tejas results in overproduction of unhealthy tissue and obstructs the flow of pranic energy.

Healthy skin gives a youthful appearance ; a balanced tridosha in the skin ensures this, with adequate moisterisation (balanced kapha), chemical and hormonal skin changes (balanced pitta), and efficient circulation and transport of nutrition (balanced vata). Skin health also reflects the health of the first three tissues, i.e., nutritional fluid (Rasa), blood cells (Rakta) and muscle tissue (Mansa).

Ayurveda mentions the symptoms of reduced, increased or disturbed vata, pitta, kapha, seven dhatu as well as the three mala.

4) How can Aging be reversed?

It is a well known fact that chronological age, which is related to time, cannot be reversed; however, biological age, which is related to cellular health, can be reversed or modified to some extent. Ayurveda describes several processes to control, prevent, and possibly reverse aging. These include detoxification procedures known as Panchkarma, and a treatment process known as Rasayan. Panchkarma includes pretreatment (purva karma) processes known as snehan (oleation) and swedan (sudation); the main processes (pradhan karma) include Vaman (induced emesis), Virechan (induced purgation), Nasya (medicated nasal administration), Basti (medicated enema), and Raktamokshan (Blood-letting). The post-treatment (paschat karma) process includes a gradual return to normal diet starting from watery soups, thin gruel (paste), followed by thicker gruels, and then normal diet as the digestive power increases.

This process is then followed up as required either by treatment (in the case of disease) or Rasayan treatment for rejuvenation. Rasayan treatments can be either Kutipraveshik (similar to inpatient therapy) or Vataatapik (similar to outpatient therapy). The former is usually more prolonged, costlier but with pronounced benefits, while the latter is simpler, cheaper but obviously with lesser benefits.

Rasayan treatment is known to (1) open up blocked or defective bodily channels (2) rejuvenate damaged or degenerated tissues (3) help increase vitality and energy (4) enhance memory and intellect (5) build up general as well as specific immunity (6) help to calm and nourish the nervous system (7) improve skin health (8) improve the functioning of the sensory organs and (9) bring about reverse aging by maintaining mental, emotional and physical health and increasing virility. Actually, Ayurveda has a separate branch of medicine known as Vaajikaran which deals exclusively with maintaining and improving sexual health.

5) How can Ayurvedic medicines and herbs help reverse aging?

As per modern medicine, oxidative stress, telomere shortening, inflammation, and mitochondrial dysfunction are said to be the main factors that regulate the aging process. The following discussion includes several herbs which act as Rasayan and help with reverse aging: (1) Ocimum sanctum (Tulsi) improves immunity and increases telomere length when taken orally, and can prevent or reverse signs of skin aging if applied locally. (2) Tinospora cordifolia (Guduchi) has potent anti-inflammatory properties, reduces liver and skin damage, and improves immunity. (3)  Withania somnifera (Ashwagandha) is an adaptogenic herb which improves immunity, makes skin and muscles healthier, reduces stress, improves stem cell proliferation, and also has anti-inflammatory and anti-tumor properties. (4) Emblica officinalis (Amla) has very good antioxidant properties, helps improve immunity, helps reverse aging by improving telomere length, and is frequently used in skin and hair care products. (5) Curcuma longa (Turmeric) is a very good antioxidant spice and herb with good anti-inflammatory properties with respect to the skin, nervous system and brain. It improves immunity, manages chronic pain and helps reverse aging. (6) Asphaltum punjabium (Shilajit) has very good antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties and helps strengthen the genito-urinary system. (7) Allium sativum (Garlic) is a spice with very well documented antioxidant properties and helps prevent cancer, reduce or prevent dementia, prevent cardiovascular disease, and enhance blood circulation. (8) Bacopa monnieri (Brahmi) has good antioxidant an anti-inflammatory properties and is best known to improve cognition. (9) Convolvulus pluricaulis (Shankhpushpi) is known to help with depression and neurodegenerative disorders. (10) Glycyrrhiza glabra (Yashtimadhu) has strong antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties and is known to help strengthen multiple body systems and organs. (11) Polyherbal combinations like Amalaki Rasayana, Medhya Rasayana, Brahma Rasyana, and Chyawanprash, have demonstrated properties which improve telomere length, repair DNA damage, improve brain and nerve damage, and thereby help with reverse aging.

6) What are some Practical Tips, as per Ayurveda, to Stay healthy and Reverse (Biological) Aging?

(1) Establish a daily healthy routine (Dincharya). Get up early (brahma muhurta), drink plenty of water, develop the habit of having a clear bowel movement daily, eat wholesome (sattvic) foods. These practices need modifications as per changing seasons (Ritucharya) and also as per constitution (Prakriti), and changing age (Kaal/Vaya) of the individual.

(2) Get sufficient sleep. Good sleep has been mentioned as one of the important pillars (Stambh) of health.

(3) Exercise regularly and beat stress using yogasanas, breathing exercises (Pranayama), and meditation.

(4) Do daily body and scalp massage (Abhyang) to get a healthy skin, toned muscles, good hair growth, and sound sleep.

(5) Use Panchkarma procedures judiciously to detoxify the body and prevent disease. Also use Rasayan medications judiciously to improve health, prevent diseases, reverse biological age and improve quality of life. To achieve this, do take the help of a qualified and experienced Ayurvedic Practitioner.

(6) Women need to observe additional care (Garbhini-charya) during pregnancy so as to have healthy offspring. This includes modifications in diet, lifestyle as well as medications.

(7) Practice good and healthy behaviour (Sadvritta) and moral conduct (Satvavjaya) so as to balance physical, mental and spiritual health.

The writer, Dr A A Mundewadi, is available as an Ayurvedic Consultant  at https://www.mundewadiayurvedicclinic.com and http://www.ayurvedaphysician.com

 

 

Erythema Dyschromicum Perstans (Ashy Dermatosis) – A Comparison of Modern (Allopathic) and Ayurvedic Herbal Treatment

 Erythema dyschromicum perstans (EDP), also known as ashy dermatosis, is a skin disorder in which grey-blue colored, ashy-looking patches appear on the face, neck and trunk. The rash is usually symmetrically distributed and often spares the mucous membranes. This condition is more common in women, and is similar in histopathological nature to lichen planus.  In most cases the cause is unknown, but it may also result from parasite or viral infection, ingestion of certain chemicals, or as a result of side effects from drugs.  This condition may persist for several years and is usually resistant to treatment.

Diagnostic tests for EDP are usually negative. A skin biopsy for histopathological examination is usually done both for a diagnosis as well as to rule out other skin conditions.  Various modern medicines have been used in EDP treatment with some or partial results, but no cure as yet. These include clofazimine, ultraviolet phototherapy, topical steroid applications, antibiotics, antihistamines, chemical peels, griseofulvin, vitamins, isoniazide, and chloroquine.

Ayurvedic herbal treatment for EDP is more specific, and provides a comprehensive control and cure of the condition. Herbal medicines which act on the skin and subcutaneous tissue, as well as blood tissue, are considered most useful for the management of this condition. Medicines which have an anti-inflammatory and immuno-modulatory effect are also found beneficial.

Treatment is in the form of oral medication as well as local application. Oral medication may contain bitter herbs in tablet form or as medicated ghee (clarified butter). Local application is usually in the form of herbal pastes or medicated oils. Various Panchkarma detoxifying modalities can be used concurrently so as to bring about a faster remission, and minimize the chances for recurrence. These treatments include induced emesis, induced purgation, and blood-letting.

Depending upon the severity of the condition and individual response of patients, Ayurvedic herbal treatment for EDP may be required for periods ranging from eight to twelve months.  Those who do not respond quickly to medication may require high doses of oral medications, along with Panchkarma treatments.  Refractory patients may also require specific treatment for any known cause. A dysfunctional immunity may be responsible, and may need separate herbal treatment. However, all patients invariably respond very well to treatment with a complete remission of skin lesions.

The writer, Dr. A. A. Mundewadi, is available as an online Ayurvedic Consultant at  https://www.mundewadiayurvedicclinic.com and http://www.ayurvedaphysician.com To start Ayurvedic herbal treatment for EDP, kindly click here

Age Related Macular Degeneration (ARMD) – Modern (Allopathic) Versus Ayurvedic Herbal Treatment

One of the leading causes of blindness is a medical condition known as age related macular degeneration; known in short as AMD or ARMD. As the name suggests, this condition causes degeneration of the macula, the most important and functional part of the retina, usually leading to diminished central vision. There are multiple risk factors associated with this condition and include ageing, female gender, genetics, faulty diet, excessive sun exposure, smoking, cardiovascular disease, high blood pressure and obesity.

This disease is classified as either wet type or dry type. The dry type aka non-exudative or non-neovascular AMD, involves a gradual process of drusen (yellowish spots) deposits within the layers of the retina, causing a gradual thinning and leading to diminished central vision. Though the dry AMD affects nearly 90 % of affected individuals, this causes limited vision loss, as the process usually stabilizes after some time.

The same does not hold true for the wet type of AMD, which causes more than 80 % of the vision loss encountered in AMD patients, though it affects only about 10 % of affected individuals. Also known as exudative or neovascular AMD, it involves growth of abnormal blood vessels beneath the retina, leading to leakage of fluid and blood. Vision loss may be sudden, dramatic and progressive, often within a few days or weeks.

The symptoms of dry AMD may be prevented or slowed down with the help of food and diet supplements such as fish, dark green leafy vegetables, garlic and onion, soy, yellow fruits and vegetables, blueberries, grapes, wine, nuts, extra virgin olive oil, zinc, copper, magnesium, selenium, fatty acids, lutein, zeaxanthin, carotinoids, vitamins A, B,  C, and D, glutathione, flavinoids, amino acids, gingko biloba, sage, bilberry and milk thistle.

Treatment for wet AMD includes injection of antivascular endothelial growth factor (anti VEGF) drugs, laser photocoagulation, photodynamic therapy, and use of low vision devices. The anti VEGF intra-ocular injections are currently believed to be the most effective treatment for wet AMD; however, this treatment may have potentially serious short and long term side effects.

Dry AMD can be treated with Ayurvedic medicines using oral Rasayan (rejuvenating) herbs along with Triphala or Mahatriphala Ghrut (clarified butter) both orally and locally, especially in the form of a Panchkarma procedure known as Netra-Tarpan (eye lubrication). After Ayurvedic treatment, most affected individuals have been known to retain a decent vision since more than three decades.

To avert sudden and drastic vision loss in the wet type of AMD, the use of leeches on the forehead area - just outward of the eye margins – is a useful and effective treatment measure. Mild and repeated purgation helps in reducing fluid build-up beneath the retina. Medicines can then be given to remove toxic collection from the eyes, as well as to help reduce the abnormal vessel growth and frequent leakages. Alternating courses of Netra-Tarpan and Netra-anjan (application of herbomineral wet powders in the eyes) are required to reverse the process of neo-vascularization. For patients who still do not respond, additional treatment is given in the form of shiro-dhara (liquid medicine drip aimed at the forehead) and courses of basti (medicated enemas). In this way, vision can be gradually restored fully or partially (depending upon the stage at which treatment has been commenced), and further loss of vision can be prevented. The standard treatment time for this is usually 4-6 months.

Ayurvedic herbal treatment can thus be judiciously used to effectively treat both the dry and wet types of AMD, without the risk of serious long-term side effects.

The writer, Dr. A. A. Mundewadi, is available as an online Ayurvedic Consultant at https://www.mundewadiayurvedicclinic.com and http://www.ayurvedaphysician.com To start Ayurvedic herbal treatment for AMD, click here

 

Coronary Artery Disease (CAD) – Modern (Allopathic) Versus Ayurvedic Herbal Treatment

 Coronary artery disease, aka CAD is a disease of the heart, commonly regarded as “heart attack”, with the well known symptom of chest pain. The arteries of the heart (coronary arteries) are normally smooth and elastic, and supply oxygen-rich blood to the heart muscles, which work 24x7. CAD is a process in which a collection of inflammatory cells, cholesterol and calcium, known as atheromatous plaques, deposit in the inner wall of the coronaries, thereby gradually causing obstruction. The arteries gradually harden, and the lumen gets blocked, leading to ischemia or infarct. The plaques can also break off, and cause symptoms of a heart attack, stroke, or peripheral artery disease.

Chest pain is the commonest symptom and is diagnostic of CAD; however, people describe this symptom in different ways such as aching, burning, numbness, squeezing, tightness and heaviness. Indigestion and heartburn may have symptoms which overlap with those of CAD; hence a great degree of alertness is required to accurately diagnose CAD. It may be accompanied by associated factors such as sweating, nausea, fatigue, breathlessness, and palpitations. This condition is more common in the elderly, obese, male sex, and often linked to a family history, hypertension, diabetes, high stress, smoking, sedentary lifestyle, and unhealthy eating.

The diagnosis of CAD is made with a detailed medical history and physical examination, supported by blood tests, ECG, 2d-echo test, stress test and angiography. CAD treatment includes cessation of smoking and drinking alcohol, handling stress efficiently, exercising regularly, and controlling weight, blood pressure, and blood sugar. Adequate modifications need to be made in the diet by cutting down on salt, sugar, and fats, and increasing fresh fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. Unsaturated fats are recommended for use, while the use of saturated fats and trans-fats is discouraged.

The conventional treatment of CAD as per the modern (Allopathic) system of medicines is with the use of drugs like aspirin, cholesterol medicines, nitroglycerine and medications to lower and control high blood pressure. Balloon angioplasty, stent placement, and CABG are the known surgical procedures. Some new procedures introduced include stem cell use to induce angiogenesis, and enhanced external counter-pulsation.

The common complications of CAD include heart attack, heart failure, and arrhythmia. The process of CAD is unrelenting and may start as early as childhood; though actual symptoms may manifest much later on in adult life or old age. Fortunately, there are many modifiable factors which can be treated to keep this process in check and prevent an acute attack and long-term serious damage.

Ayurvedic herbal treatment can be judiciously utilised to significantly reverse this unrelenting CAD pathophysiology. Herbal medicines help to treat inflammation, and reduce or prevent atherosclerosis. Dietary advice is important in reducing weight. The arteries can be kept elastic and less prone to damage and rupture by invoking a right combination of herbal medicines, exercises, yogic asanas like shavasana; breathing techniques like “bhastrika” and “anulom” and “pratilom” techniques; and body massage and fomentation. Ayurveda advocates the right use of oils and medicated ghee (clarified butter) to treat CAD; these can be used both locally and orally with good results.

Herbal and herbo-mineral medications can be effectively used to treat heart disease right from the early, asymptomatic stage to the later stages of enlargement and failure. Panchkarma treatment modalities like medicated enemas (basti) and “hridaya-basti” (localized chest treatment) can help strengthen fatigued heart muscles and hardened arteries. Recurrent attacks of chest pain (angina) can be effectively treated using Ayurvedic medications; Ayurvedic medicines and treatment modalities are more effective than modern medicines in treating such episodes where no specific pathology can be detected using diagnostic methods. Confirmed heart vessel blocks can be effectively reversed using Ayurvedic treatment on a long term basis.

A judicious combination of modern diagnostic methods, basic modern medicines to control symptoms, and additional Ayurvedic treatment can be effectively utilized to completely cure CAD on a long term basis. Ayurvedic medicines can also effectively treat associated conditions like high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and diabetes. It is important to note that an acute attack of CAD should not be ignored or taken lightly, and all affected individuals should be referred to a hospital as soon as possible.

The writer, Dr A A Mundewadi, is available as an Ayurvedic Consultant at https://www.mundewadiayurvedicclinic.com and http://www.ayurvedaphysician.com To start treatment for CAD, kindly click here

Congestive Cardiac Failure (CCF) – Modern (Allopathic) Versus Ayurvedic Herbal Treatment

 The heart acts as a mechanical pump to supply oxygenated blood along with nutrients to all parts of the body. Congestive cardiac failure (CCF) is a medical condition in which the heart loses its normal efficiency. If left untreated, this condition worsens over time and may lead to a complete failure of the heart, thereby causing death. CCF can be caused due to coronary artery disease (CAD), heart attack, cardiomyopathy, congenital heart defects, high blood pressure, valvular diseases of the heart, as well as general medical conditions like thyroid disease, and kidney disease.

Common symptoms of CCF include breathlessness on exertion or at rest, congested lungs, fluid and water retention (causing swelling of feet and – later on - bloating of the entire body), loss of appetite, nausea, dizziness, fatigue and weakness, and rapid or irregular heartbeat. Not all symptoms may be present in all affected individuals; and some may have no symptoms at all, at least in the initial phase of the disease.

Early diagnosis and management of this medical condition is important in order to prevent permanent and irreversible damage to the heart and increased mortality. The goal of the modern (Allopathic) system of medicines is to treat the known cause, ease symptoms, improve quality of life, prevent the condition from worsening, and reduce the need for hospitalization as well as the risk of death.

Some of the medicines commonly used include ACE inhibitors, angiotensin II receptor blockers, beta blockers, blood vessel dilators, digoxin, calcium channel blockers, diuretics, potassium, magnesium, and heart pump medications. Regular graded exercises, lifestyle modifications and regular, lifelong medical follow ups are important to maintain a good quality of life and achieve good heart control with medications. Lifestyle modifications include quitting smoking and alcohol consumption, changing diet, and reducing weight.

For patients with specific causes and advanced or severe disease, surgical treatment options may be offered. These include coronary artery bypass graft (CABG), heart valve surgery, implantable left ventricular assist device (LVAD), and heart transplant. Heart failure management is thus a team effort and includes the services of cardiology physicians and surgeons, nurses, dietitians, physiotherapists, social workers and counselors.

In addition to modern conservative care, institution of aggressive Ayurvedic treatment to treat both the cause and effects of CCF can result in highly gratifying results. Ayurvedic medicines are very effective in quickly controlling high blood pressure; this reduces the work load on the heart thereby reducing heart muscle fatigue and compromised pumping action. Herbal medicines work very well to reduce atherosclerosis and obstruction in narrowed coronary vessels so as to improve the blood flow to the heart muscles. Damage to heart muscles due to valvular insufficiency, heart muscle disease, or alcohol and drug abuse can be corrected using specific herbal therapy for the same. Work efficiency of the heart can be improved using appropriate herbo-mineral therapy.

With regular treatment, affected individuals notice a definite improvement in symptoms like swelling, breathlessness, fatigue and reduced appetite. Objective tests like chest x-ray and 2-d echo test reveal improvement in such parameters as reduction in the size of enlarged heart chambers, improved valvular efficiency, improved heart ejection fraction, reduced load on the lungs, and resolution of swelling in and around the pericardium.

Ayurvedic herbal treatment can thus be judiciously used to treat refractory patients having CCF. Concurrent Ayurvedic treatment can dramatically improve the overall outlook of long term treatment of CCF and significantly bring down mortality resulting from this condition.

The writer, Dr A A Mundewadi, is available as an online Ayurvedic Consultant at https://www.mundewadiayurvedicclinic.com and http://www.ayurvedaphysician.com To start Ayurvedic herbal treatment for CCF, kindly click here

Addiction – Modern (Allopathic) Versus Ayurvedic Herbal Treatment

 Physical and emotional dependence on alcohol, tobacco, or drugs is labeled as addiction. Severe addictions can cause ill health, antisocial behavior, absence from work, emotional and physical trauma to the family, economic deprivation, and significantly increased morbidity and mortality. Usually, family members bring the affected individual for treatment; a few individuals come directly seeking treatment. Drug addiction is best treated in a specialized institution using a multi-disciplinary approach. However, most patients having tobacco or alcohol addiction can be safely treated on an outpatient basis.

Treatment of severe addiction usually includes bio-feedback therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behaviour therapy, experiential therapy, holistic therapy, motivational enhancement therapy, and psychodynamic therapy. One or more modalities may be combined to provide a tailor-made treatment protocol suited to each individual’s requirement.

Modern (allopathic) medicines used in the treatment of addiction include benzodiazepines, antidepressants, clonidine, naltrexone, acamprosate, disulfiram, methadone, and buprenorphine. The aim is to reduce craving and help with withdrawal symptoms such as anxiety, tremors, depression, nausea, muscle aches, sweating, and convulsions. Group counseling and one-on-one counseling by an experienced counselor help to cope up with the treatment process as well as with rehabilitation.

The mainstay of Ayurvedic herbal treatment while handling addiction is to normalize and protect the metabolism of the body as well as the mental state of affected individuals. Herbal medicines are given to improve liver function, detoxify body tissues, protect the heart and nervous system, and improve elimination through the intestines and kidneys. Herbal medicines are also given to improve alertness, concentration and confidence, while reducing stress.

Affected individuals are advised a diet consisting predominantly of milk, ghee, honey, fruits, and vegetables. Recommendations are given to be in good company, remain busy, and get involved in interesting and fruitful work. Professional counseling may be required for serious emotional, family and work related issues.

Ayurvedic treatment has a very good effect on people affected with alcohol and tobacco addiction. Some individuals have reported giving up the use of tobacco or alcohol within just one week of starting treatment. However, it is important to not discontinue treatment due to a risk of relapse. An average of four to eight months’ treatment is usually required to completely get an individual off the addiction. It is important to monitor the patient and see that all vital organs are working well and the person is mentally stable.

The writer, Dr A A Mundewadi, is available as an online Ayurvedic Consultant at https://www.mundewadiayurvedicclinic.com and http://www.ayurvedaphysician.com For Ayurvedic herbal treatment of addiction, kindly click here

Chronic Urticaria – Comparison of Modern (Allopathic) and Ayurvedic Herbal Treatment

 Urticaria aka hives is an allergic skin reaction with characteristic red and itchy patches which usually subside within twenty-four hours without any pigmentation or scaling. When this condition persists for more than six weeks, it is known as chronic urticaria. While urticaria is usually not serious, a variant known as angioedema – involving the skin and mucous membranes, usually in the eyelids, lips, and tongue – is typically more serious and may prove to be life-threatening if not treated immediately.

A detailed medical history along with physical examination usually suffices to make a clinical diagnosis of chronic urticaria. Further investigations may be warranted with a concurrent history of parasitic infection, thyroid disorder, or autoimmune disorder. A skin biopsy may rarely be indicated with concurrent skin bleeds, autoimmune features, fever, arthritis, or if skin lesions persist for more than 24 hours at a time.

Chronic urticaria is usually idiopathic in nature; there is no definite cause which can be attributed to it, though it is now believed that an underlying autoimmune process may be one driving factor. A small subset is known as pressure urticaria, which may be caused or aggravated by pressure, vibrations, temperature changes, sweating, sun exposure and contact with water. Though rare, chronic urticaria may also be secondary to some underlying medical condition.

The modern (Allopathic) management of chronic urticaria is usually with the help of anti-histamine medications, which usually suffice to treat rash as well as itching in mild cases. For individuals with moderately severe symptoms, additional treatment with colchicine, dapsone, and steroids may be required for a limited duration. Immune modulating drugs may be required for patients who exhibit an autoimmune disease process, while a few may require thyroid medications.

In addition to a medication regime, it is also important to avoid triggers like stress, fatigue, tight-fitting clothes, alcohol, aspirin, and other non-steroid anti-inflammatory drugs. Soothing ointments can help relieve itching, while lukewarm baths can alleviate night-time itching. With a properly planned medication regime, nearly 50 percent patients undergo disease remission within a year, even though chronic urticaria is known to last from several months to several years. Though not serious or life threatening, this condition can adversely impact quality of life.

Ayurvedic herbal treatment is also very useful in treating chronic urticaria; this treatment can especially be put to good use in treating those patients who do not respond satisfactorily to modern medicines. While modern (Allopathic) medicines treat on a symptomatic basis, Ayurvedic medicines act to reverse the basis pathology of the disease. Ayurvedic herbs act on the skin, subcutaneous tissue, mucus membranes, capillaries, blood as well as the nervous system and thereby strengthen skin tissue, treat allergy, and prevent recurrence.

As per Ayurvedic pathophysiology, the diagnosis of chronic urticaria is further differentiated as follows: urticaria with predominantly ‘Vata’ dosha symptoms is known as ‘Sheeta-pitta’;  with dominant ‘Pitta’ symptoms, it is known as “Utkotha”; while with dominant ‘Kapha’ symptoms, it is known as ‘Udarda’. Each of these types is treated in a different way and with different herbal medicines, thereby making the Ayurvedic treatment more specific and further amenable to results, even in refractory patients. For patients with highly refractory symptoms, purification Panchkarma procedures like induced emesis, induced purgation, and bloodletting are utilized, either as stand-alone procedures, or as combinations, or even as repeat combination-procedures, if indicated, along with oral medications. Since chronic urticaria may be related to hidden, underlying causes, it is equally important to look for and treat chronic gastro-intestinal symptoms, repeated worm infestations, thyroid disorders, chronic stress, latent infections, chronic inflammation, and autoimmune processes.

It is therefore very important to take a detailed medical history, do a thorough clinical examination and reach an accurate diagnosis before commencing treatment, in order to achieve a quick and complete remission. With proper and regular Ayurvedic herbal treatment, most patients having chronic urticaria can be fully treated in about 4-8 months. Depending upon the severity, patients with underlying autoimmune disease may require treatment for longer periods. It is equally important to adopt suitable lifestyle modifications and avoid know triggers.

The writer, Dr A A Mundewadi, is available as an Ayurvedic Consultant at https://www.mundewadiayurvedicclinic.com and http://www.ayurvedaphysician.com  For Ayurvedic herbal treatment of chronic urticaria, kindly click here

Porphyria – Modern (Allopathic) Versus Ayurvedic Herbal Treatment

 Porphyrias are a group of inherited metabolic disorders, in which deficiency of enzymes causes a buildup of porphyrins, which are required for the synthesis of hemoglobin in red blood cells. This abnormal buildup affects the skin, nerves, brain, and internal organs, causing symptoms like severe abdominal pain, constipation, vomiting, muscular pain, convulsions, tingling, weakness, confusion, hallucinations, high blood pressure, tachycardia, itching and rash. Acute intermittent porphyria (AIP) is an acute manifestation of this condition.

The abnormal buildup of porphyrins causes urine to be typically red colored with the excretion of porphobilinogen, and this is diagnostic of the condition. Symptoms are precipitated by medications, fasting, smoking, infections, surgery, stress, alcohol, menstrual hormones, and exposure to sun. Treatment in the modern (allopathic) system of medicine is with intravenous glucose, simple pain killers, and oral or intravenous Hematin. While the acute condition can be treated adequately in a well equipped hospital, modern medicine cannot prevent further episodes, other than by recommending avoidance of the precipitating factors as well as all unnecessary medications.

The pathology suggests disturbed metabolism and creation of unhealthy blood tissue and vitiated pitta. Features are indicative of Raktapitta disease moving in the downward direction. Depending upon the exact pathophysiology, skin, brain and kidneys are also liable to be affected.

Treatment involves correction of faulty pitta and normalization of blood tissue, correction of metabolism, along with control of a disturbed vata. Other symptoms can be concurrently treated with Ayurvedic medicines. Most patients can be well controlled with Ayurvedic therapy of a few weeks to a few months. Recurrent attacks of pain can be well controlled, provided the patient meticulously avoids all known aggravating causes. Patients having severe neuropsychiatric symptoms may require prolonged treatment of about 6-10 months.

After the initial treatment, once all symptoms have gone in complete remission, it is usually sufficient to just observe the patient for any signs of recurrence or relapse. Most day to day medical issues can be easily handled with Ayurvedic medication, and the patients as well as caretakers quickly learn to manage the situation on their own. It is fortunate that most Ayurvedic medications are well tolerated by patients suffering from porphyria, and so affected individuals need not get intimidated by the long list of Allopathic medications which they cannot take.

Porphyria patients can thus be comprehensively treated and managed on a long term basis with the help of Ayurvedic herbal medicines.

The writer, Dr A A Mundewadi, is available as an online consultant at https://www.mundewadiayurvedicclinic.com and http://www.ayurvedaphysician.com For Ayurvedic herbal treatment of recurrent porphyria episodes, click here For Ayurvedic herbal treatment of porphyria with neuropsychiatric involvement, kindly click here

Migraine – Modern (Allopathic) Versus Ayurvedic Herbal Treatment

 Migraine is a medical condition which affects mainly women and can prove incapacitating in nature, with symptoms such as severe headache, nausea, vomiting and light sensitivity, which may last from four to seventy-two hours. The onset is usually between ten and forty years of age; it may be aggravated with menstruation and may – in a few affected individuals – improve or disappear by the age of fifty. Nearly one billion people worldwide are estimated to be suffering from this condition, and it is believed to be more common than diabetes, epilepsy and asthma combined.

Migraine may be inherited, and triggered or aggravated by certain foods, caffeine, weather changes, bright light, menstruation, fatigue, stress, and irregular sleep and meals. While the exact mechanism of the disease is as yet not clear, it is believed that the triggers stimulate the trigeminal nerve and cause increased swelling in the blood vessels lining the brain.  This in turn releases neurotransmitters which cause pain and inflammation. Typically, this condition severely disrupts the quality of life of affected patients; in a few individuals, there may be additional symptoms related to the eyes and brain which may be severe enough to warrant hospital admission and intensive care.

The conservative management of migraine includes over-the-counter pain killers, medicines to counter nausea and vomiting, preventive medications (medicines to control blood pressure, convulsions, antidepressants, and CGRP inhibitors [which reduce nerve pain and inflammation]), biofeedback, and transcranial magnetic stimulation. Avoiding the known trigger factors, stress management, relaxation training, regular meal schedule, and moderate exercise can also help reduce the severity and frequency of migraines. Other than those suffering from comorbid medical conditions, people affected with migraine usually have normal blood and imaging reports.

The Ayurvedic management of people with migraine involves taking a detailed medical history; including severity and frequency of symptoms, trigger factors, diet and lifestyle. Lifestyle and dietary modifications are suggested. Ayurvedic herbal medicines are given to provide symptomatic relief from symptoms as well as to treat the known causes, as determined by the clinical history. The treatment of hyperacidity, indigestion, constipation, and stress, go a long way in successfully treating migraine as well as preventing further episodes. It is important to treat inflammation in cranial blood vessels in order to reduce the tendency for recurrent migraine attacks, as well as to treat a hyper-reactive nervous system.

In addition to oral treatment, medicated nose drops are used to treat inflammation of blood vessels and involvement of the brain, which may – in individuals with severe migraine – mimic symptoms of stroke, blindness, and glaucoma.  Nose drops may be used both to alleviate an acute attack as well as to prevent migraine. Regular courses of medicated enemas are used to treat a hyper-reactive nervous system. A special treatment modality known as Shirobasti is used to treat severe forms of stress which may be causing recurrent attacks of migraine.

Refractory patients who do not respond well to simple oral treatment are given courses of Panchkarma detoxification treatments in the form of periodical blood-letting and induced purgation. The treatment response varies widely from patient to patient; some individuals with long-standing, severe symptoms respond dramatically to just one short course of treatment, while others with milder symptoms may require a protracted course of treatment with more medicines, that too, in higher doses.

Migraine is a chronic disease which significantly affects the quality of life of affected individuals, and is a public health issue with serious health and economic consequences. While modern medicine can reduce the severity and frequency of migraine episodes, it currently does not offer a cure. Ayurvedic herbal treatment can help provide significant improvement in patients with migraine, and can bring about a cure for most affected people.

The writer, Dr A A Mundewadi, is available as an Ayurvedic Consultant at https://www.mundewadiayurvedicclinic.com and http://www.ayurvedaphysician.com For Ayurvedic herbal treatment of migraine, kindly click here 

Eczema - Allopathic (Modern) Versus Ayurvedic Herbal Treatment

 Eczema is a skin condition characterized by skin rashes accompanied by intense itching. The rash is in the form of fluid filled blisters, which rupture and then gradually heal with crusting. Along with asthma and hay fever, eczema forms a triad of allergic diseases which have a hereditary component; these may exist singly or all combined in affected individuals. Most individuals outgrow the tendency to eczema by five years of age; others may go on to have chronic and recurrent disease. Eczema may also be caused or aggravated by frequent washing; excessive sweating; the frequent use of rough and tight clothes, harsh chemicals, and rubber or plastic gloves; as also environmental factors like excessive dryness.

The diagnosis of eczema is usually made on clinical grounds taking into consideration the characteristic appearance and distribution of the rash, and the history of its appearance and trigger factors; a biopsy may rarely be required for a confirmed diagnosis. Treatment in the modern system of medicine is with the regular application of anti-inflammatory, anti-itch and steroid creams. Moisturizers help alleviate symptoms, while antibiotic creams and oral medicines treat secondary infections. Patients are advised to keep the skin clean, avoid known irritants, and wear loose, soft clothing.

There is always some element of hypersensitivity or allergy in the manifestation of eczema. While steroid and antihistamine applications suppress this sensitivity, Ayurvedic herbal medicines work directly on the skin, the subcutaneous tissue, and the vascular apparatus, to reduce sensitivity, treat inflammation, remove accumulated toxins and damaged tissue, reduce hyperpigmentation and strengthen the affected skin parts. Medicines are also given to heal the lesions and modulate overall immunity so that the tendency to recurrence subsides gradually.

For patients who have extensive lesions all over the body, or have intractable eczema not responding to standard oral treatment, generalized detoxification is done using Ayurvedic Panchkarma procedures. These include induced emesis, induced purgation, and bloodletting. A systematic course - or courses - of these detoxification procedures are done and followed up with oral treatment for helping the skin lesions subside fully, without recurrence. For limited, localized, and long-standing eczema, sometimes just simple bloodletting from a nearby vein does wonders as a standalone treatment.

From the point of view of Ayurved, dietary advice is an important part of treatment, both for early and complete healing, as well as for preventing recurrence. Dietary recommendations for eczema – and for all skin diseases in general – include avoiding excess of salt, curds (yogurt), sweets; fermented, fried or acidic food items; and fruit salads prepared in milk. Other than these, even other food items known to aggravate the condition, should be avoided. Breathing and relaxation techniques help in reducing stress. Clothing and lifestyle choices which act as triggers should also be avoided.

For most people affected with eczema, Ayurvedic herbal treatment of about 6-8 months usually suffices to bring about a complete remission. Further treatment at tapering doses, or dietary advice, suffices in preventing a recurrence. Ayurvedic herbal treatment can thus be judiciously used in the comprehensive management and treatment of chronic eczema.

The writer, Dr A A Mundewadi, is available as an Ayurvedic consultant at https://www.mundewadiayurvedicclinic.com and http://www.ayurvedaphysician.com To start Ayurvedic herbal treatment for eczema, kindly click here

Behcet Disease – Modern (Allopathic) Versus Ayurvedic Herbal Treatment

 An autoimmune disease is a condition in which the body’s immune system turns against itself. Behcet disease is one such, rare autoimmune disease with a classical symptom triad of oral and genital ulcers and eye inflammation. The disease causes a generalized inflammation of arteries; this in turn causes vasculitis, clot formation and aneurysms, thereby resulting in symptoms. Exposure to an infection in a genetically predisposed individual is probably the main cause of disease precipitation.

Since there are no specific diagnostic tests for this condition, diagnosis is usually made on clinical grounds, and by doing blood tests and other investigations to rule out similar-looking diseases. Symptoms usually appear between twenty to forty years of age, and tend to relapse and remit over long periods. While mild cases involve only the skin and mucous membranes, serious manifestations of the disease may affect the eyes, nervous system, heart, lungs, intestines and kidneys.

The modern system of medicine makes use of steroids, mouthwash, and eye drops to control symptoms of Behcet disease. For more aggressive symptoms, immune suppressant drugs are used to control symptoms and reduce the frequency and severity of recurrent attacks. Modern medicines can thus help to control the symptoms but cannot cure the disease. Prolonged use of steroids and immune suppressants can create a host of side effects which can adversely affect the whole body.

The Ayurvedic treatment protocol for Behcet disease includes cellular detoxification of the body and herbal medicines in high doses to treat arterial inflammation, bring about immune modulation, and treat or prevent damage to affected important organs so as to reduce mortality and morbidity from this disease. Patients who are refractory to standard herbal treatment are given additional specialized Panchkarma treatments like Raktamokshan (blood –letting) and Tikta-Ksheer-basti (courses of medicated enemas).

Once the patient starts achieving remission of symptoms, other medicines are added to normalize metabolism and bring about a rejuvenation of the body systems. This allows for a gradual tapering of medicines and prevents relapse of symptoms in the long run. Most affected individuals require treatment for periods ranging from 8 – 18 months, for a complete remission of symptoms along with cessation of therapy after gradual tapering of medicines. It is pertinent to note that Ayurvedic herbal treatment can significantly reduce the morbidity and mortality resulting from this disease in patients with severe involvement.

It is equally important to avoid known trigger factors, reduce or manage stress, adapt relaxation techniques, bring about positive lifestyle modifications, and consume healing foods, mostly in the form of fresh vegetables and fruits.

The writer, Dr A A Mundewadi, is available as an Ayurvedic consultant at http://www.ayurvedaphysician.com and https://www.mundewadiayurvedicclinic.com  For Ayurvedic herbal treatment of behcet disease, kindly click here