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Saturday 5 December 2020

Ayurvedic Herbal Treatment for Hypothyroidism

 Hypothyroidism is a medical condition in which the secretions from the thyroid gland are less than normal due to various causes such as inflammation or destruction of the thyroid gland, deficiency of iodine or iron, and abnormalities in the pituitary or hypothalamus of the brain.  Hypothyroidism can cause symptoms such as course and thick skin, weight gain, depression, cold intolerance, constipation, decreased concentration, excessive sleep, and pain and swelling in the body.  Hypothyroidism can also cause accumulation of fluid in the heart or lungs.  The modern treatment of hypothyroidism consists in supplementing the body with synthetic thyroxin, which controls the symptoms partially, but needs to be taken life-long. 

The Ayurvedic herbal treatment for hypothyroidism consists of treating the cause of the disease as well as giving symptomatic treatment.  Deficiency of iodine or iron needs to be corrected within the daily dietary intake.  Abnormalities of the brain in the pituitary and the hypothalamus need to be properly investigated, after which the appropriate Ayurvedic treatment can be instituted to correct the abnormality.  Inflammation of the thyroid gland can be treated with Ayurvedic herbal medicines which reduce inflammation and gradually bring the thyroid gland back to normal. 

Simultaneously, Ayurvedic medicines are also given reduce the retention of fluid in the body and gradually increase the metabolism so that symptoms like thick skin, weight gain, depression and swelling and pain in the body disappear, and the body returns to normal.  Excess fluid from the body is washed out through the kidneys with the help of Ayurvedic herbal medicines; in addition, toxins from the blood are treated and also flushed out.  Medicines which act directly on the thyroid gland and thyroid cells are used, so that the thyroid gland starts functioning normally and smoothly.  Normally, treatment is required for a period of eight to twelve months, in which most people affected with hypothyroidism recover completely.  Patients who have developed hypothyroidism after the intake of radioactive iodine suffer large-scale destruction of the thyroid gland; individuals with Hashimoto’s thyroiditis also develop hypothyroidism in the long run. In such individuals, treatment may be required with Ayurvedic herbal medicines for a much longer time. 

Ayurvedic herbal treatment is thus very effective in the successful management of hypothyroidism.

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

Monday 23 November 2020

Ayurvedic Herbal Treatment for Irritable Bowel Syndrome

Irritable bowel syndrome is a medical condition which causes a dysfunction of the intestines resulting in different types of symptoms such as abdominal pain, discomfort, cramping, bloating, and either diarrhoea or constipation.  Symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome vary from person-to-person and therefore require different types of management.  Irritable bowel syndrome can usually be diagnosed when a person has the typical symptoms of this disorder and when all other organic causes have been ruled out.  Stress and food allergy are believed to be important in causing irritable bowel syndrome.  This condition can be very chronic but is usually manageable.  Changes in diet and lifestyle are usually important in the successful management of this condition. 

Ayurvedic herbal treatment for irritable bowel syndrome is aimed at strengthening the intestines, improving digestion, and also treating chronic stress in the affected individuals.  Ayurvedic herbal medicines which have a specific action on the small as well as the large intestine are used in high doses as per individual requirements.  Medicines which improve the digestion as well as improve the resistance power of the intestinal mucosa are also used in combination with the above-mentioned medicines.  Ayurvedic herbal medicines are also used to treat and reduce stress and anxiety, which are known factors in the propagation of this disease.

 Individuals affected with irritable bowel syndrome may also require medicines to improve the general immune status of the body and as well as medicines to strengthen all the tissues, especially the blood and muscle tissue.  This treatment indirectly helps in the successful management of irritable bowel syndrome.  Most individuals affected with chronic and severe irritable bowel syndrome require regular Ayurvedic herbal treatment for about six to eight months; however, the results of regular treatment are dramatic and can significantly alter the life of affected individuals for the better.  After a complete remission of symptoms, that dose and frequency of medicines can be gradually reduced and then tapered off completely. 

Ayurvedic herbal treatment thus has a significant role to play in the successful management and treatment of irritable bowel syndrome.

 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 IBS, kindly click on https://www.mundewadiayurvedicclinic.com/product-page/irritable-bowel-syndrome-ibs 

Ayurvedic Herbal Treatment of Eczema

 Eczema is an eruption of the skin, usually preceded by intense itching. The eruptions, which are actually fluid filled vesicles, usually rupture with the leakage of fluid, following by crusting of the rash. Most individuals have a hereditary component, and are also usually susceptible to asthma, and hay fever. Most individuals gradually outgrow the tendency to eczema by 5 years of age; those who do not, may have chronic and persistent affliction. Environmental factors are also responsible, like excessive dryness. Rough, tight clothes, harsh chemicals, sweating, rubber or plastic gloves, and frequent washing can also cause or aggravate the condition.

Diagnosis is usually made by looking at the characteristic appearance and distribution of the rash, along with a detailed history of its appearance and trigger factors. Rarely, a biopsy may be required for a confirmed diagnosis. Treatment is usually with anti-inflammatory and anti-itch creams as well as steroid applications. Emollient creams help preserve moisture in the skin and are helpful. Antibiotic applications or oral medicines are sometimes required to treat secondary infection. Individuals 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 bringing about 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 For Ayurvedic herbal treatment of chronic eczema, kindly click on this link https://www.mundewadiayurvedicclinic.com/product-page/eczema-chronic 

Behcet Disease – Successful Ayurvedic Herbal Treatment

 Behcet disease consists of the classical triad symptoms of recurrent oral ulcers, genital ulcers, and inflammation in the eyes. It is a rare autoimmune disease caused by generalized inflammation of arteries; most probably arising from an autoimmune response triggered by an exposure to an infectious agent, especially in genetically predisposed individuals. Inflammation of arteries (vasculitis), clot formation (thrombosis), and ballooning of artery walls (aneurysms) are the mechanisms which cause the symptoms and damage to the body systems in this disease.

The onset of symptoms is usually in the age from 20-40 years. In addition to mucocutaneous involvement, multiple systems in the body may be involved. Usually, involvement of only skin and mucous membranes denotes a mild course of disease, whereas serious manifestation may occur with involvement of the eyes, nervous system, heart, lungs, intestines and kidneys. Symptoms usually exhibit a relapsing and remitting course. There are no specific diagnostic tests for this condition, though the pathergy needle prick test may help with the diagnosis.

The Ayurvedic herbal treatment of Behcet disease commences with cellular detoxification as well as healing treatment of the affected parts of the body. Since inflammation of arteries is the hallmark pathology of this condition, the mainstay of treatment revolves around treating this inflammation aggressively as well giving herbal medicines for gradually bringing about immune modulation. If important organs are affected, these are treated on a priority basis to prevent serious damage and reduce mortality from this disease. Those individuals who have access to Ayurvedic Panchkarma treatment can opt for a course of raktamokshan (bloodletting) and tikta-ksheer basti (medicated enema).

Once the patient starts improving with treatment, other treatment to normalize metabolism and bring about a rejuvenation of the body systems, is started. This facilitates gradual tapering of medicines and prevents relapse of symptoms in the long run. Depending upon the severity of symptoms and response to treatment, most affected individuals require treatment for periods ranging from 8 – 18 months for a complete remission of symptoms and cessation of therapy after gradual tapering of medicines. Ayurvedic herbal treatment can significantly reduce the morbidity and mortality resulting from this disease.

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 https://www.mundewadiayurvedicclinic.com  and http://www.ayurvedaphysician.com  For Ayurvedic herbal treatment of Behcet disease, kindly click on this link https://www.mundewadiayurvedicclinic.com/product-page/behcet-s-disease 

Spondylosis – Ayurvedic Herbal Treatment

 Degenerative or osteoarthritic changes in the spine are known as spondylosis.  This is characterized by the presence of bone outgrowths known as bone spurs, and degenerative changes in the intervertebral discs. Spondylosis can occur in any part of the spine, but cervical and lumbar spondylosis tends to have more symptoms. This condition is different from spondylitis which involves inflammation, physical non-development (spondylolysis), and physical dislocation either forward or backward (spondylolisthesis). Spondylosis and a herniated disc can cause compression of the sciatic nerve causing symptoms of sciatica.

Ageing, genetics, and trauma are risk factors for spondylosis. Chronic pain is the commonest symptom of spondylosis; if a nerve is affected, symptoms like numbness and tingling can also occur. Treatment involves the use of medications, self-care, exercise and physical therapy, adjunctive therapies (chiropractics and acupuncture), and minimally invasive procedures such as injections, and surgery.

Ayurvedic herbal medicines have a special role to play in the long term management and treatment of spondylosis. Since spondylosis is said to be associated with age related degeneration, it is generally believed that no particular medicines can influence the long term outlook of this condition, since modern medicines only reduce swelling, inflammation and pain. However, Ayurvedic herbal medicines can reverse the ageing process in the spine to a significant degree.

When given in high doses for long durations, Ayurvedic herbal medicines can reduce the damage in the spine, make the vertebral bones strong and healthy, and reduce the swelling due to osteoporosis. In addition, the medicines also help to make the tendons and muscles attached to the spine very strong and healthy. This helps to reduce and eliminate chronic pain, which is the hallmark of spondylosis. In addition, pressure on sensitive nerves is also removed, thereby treating nerve related symptoms like pain, numbness, and impending paralysis.

A judicious combination of oral Ayurvedic herbs, local application of Ayurvedic medicated oils, hot fomentation, and regular exercise, can help most people suffering from spondylosis recover completely even from very chronic and severe affectations. That said, it is always advisable to get examined, investigated, diagnosed, and treated with Ayurvedic herbal medicines at the earliest possible in order to get the maximum possible benefit from treatment.

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 spondylosis, kindly click on https://www.mundewadiayurvedicclinic.com/product-page/spondylosis 

Chronic Pancreatitis - Successful Ayurvedic Herbal Treatment

 Chronic pancreatitis is a condition in which the patient experiences chronic or intermittent severe abdominal pain, due to a chronic, continuing inflammatory process which gradually destroys the pancreas either fully or partially. The presence of stones, cysts, increased lobularity, dilated ducts and calcification are typical signs of chronic pancreatitis. Pancreatic enzyme blood levels are either normal or mildly elevated. In time, the organ gradually loses its functions and the patient may end up with complications like diabetes and malabsorption syndrome.

            Alcohol abuse, gall bladder stones, autoimmune disorders, and trauma are the known causes of chronic pancreatitis, while in some patients the cause remains unknown. Standard treatment includes pain management, prevention and treatment of known causes, treatment of organ insufficiency or failure, and surgery.

            Ayurvedic herbal medicines can be very effectively used in chronic pancreatitis to reduce pain and prevent or minimize long term, irreversible damage to the organ. Herbal medicines can reduce the inflammation in the pancreas and thereby prevent long term complications like cyst formation and calcification. Treatment can change according to the known cause of the condition. It is advisable to start Ayurvedic treatment at the earliest possible since this can bring about a complete reversal of the inflammation and a complete cure. Even patients with chronic history and visible damage to the pancreas have made a complete recovery without a recurrence. Children with recurrent pancreatitis also do well with Ayurvedic treatment and recover completely with treatment.

Any fresh episode of pain can usually be treated successfully with Ayurvedic medicines, with very few exceptions.  Most patients who tend to relapse or do not respond well to treatment usually have a history of faulty compliance to treatment, inadequate diet control and a tendency to binge on fatty foods and alcohol. Average treatment time for chronic pancreatitis is about eight months, depending upon the severity of organ damage and the response to treatment.

Ayurvedic herbal treatment is therefore a viable treatment option for chronic and recurrent pancreatitis. Early treatment can prevent irreversible damage and bring about complete recovery, with minimal chances of recurrence.

The writer, Dr A A Mundewadi, as available as an Ayurvedic Consultant at https://www.mundewadiayurvedicclinic.com  and http://www.ayurvedaphysician.com  For Ayurvedic herbal treatment of chronic and recurrent pancreatitis, kindly click on this link https://www.mundewadiayurvedicclinic.com/product-page/chronic-and-recurrent-pancreatitis 

Ayurvedic Herbal Treatment of Polyarteritis Nodosa (PAN)

 Polyarteritis nodosa (PAN) is a rare autoimmune disorder which involves generalized inflammation of small arteries in the body affecting mostly the skin, joints, peripheral nerves, intestines and kidneys, though the lings are usually spared. Common symptoms include fever, night sweats, weight loss, skin ulcerations or tender nodules, and severe muscle and joint pains, developing over weeks or months. PAN may be related to Hepatitis B and C infections, as also to genetic mutations. This disease can have serious long-term complications, especially if associated with intestinal, renal, heart or brain damage.

 Conservative treatment is usually with steroids and immune suppressant drugs. The overall outlook can be considerably improved with these medicines; however, the long term prognosis still remains grim. Since multiple organs and body systems may get involved, this condition may require comprehensive management by a group of multispecialty physicians.

 Ayurvedic herbal treatment is very effective in comprehensively treating PAN including the inflammation and damage to arteries, as well as treating and preventing long term complications. Herbal medicines can treat inflamed arteries, reduce the formation of micro aneurysms, and prevent long term damage, blockage and infarct, which cause long term damage to the organs they supply. Herbal medicines can also induce healing in inflamed arteries without compromising on immunity. Associated symptoms, or known causes, such as hepatitis, and chronic infections, need to be treated separately with appropriate herbs. 

For a complete remission and to prevent long term relapses, the full spectrum of Ayurvedic treatment needs to be given, including detoxification, rejuvenation, and immune modulation. The various stages of these treatments need different medicines, while the herbs for the presenting symptoms and PAN pathology are continued concurrently. 

Depending upon the type of presentation, the severity of presenting symptoms, and the stage at which treatment has been commenced; Ayurvedic herbal treatment needs to be given from periods ranging from 4 months to nearly 18 months, in order to be able to fully treat all the clinical presentations of PAN. Judiciously used, Ayurvedic herbal treatment can successfully manage and treat PAN, and significantly reduce morbidity and mortality resulting from this disease. Early commencement of treatment ensures a more complete cure and reduces the chances for long term complications or relapse.

 

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 PAN, kindly click on this link https://www.mundewadiayurvedicclinic.com/product-page/polyarteritis-nodosa-pan