Digestive Disorders

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Digestive Disorders/Gastrointestinal Diseases

Gastrointestinal diseases (abbreviated as GI diseases or GI illnesses) are conditions that affect the gastrointestinal tract, including the esophagus, stomach, small intestine, large intestine, and rectum, as well as the digestive accessory organs such as the liver, gallbladder, and pancreas.

In Ayurveda, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is primarily attributed to weakened digestive fire (mandagni) and the accumulation of toxins (ama). According to Ayurvedic principles, IBS is associated with:

IBS/GRAHANI

Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a collection of symptoms that occur together, including recurring abdominal pain and changes in bowel habits, which may involve diarrhea, constipation, or both. In IBS, these symptoms appear even though there are no visible signs of damage or disease in the digestive tract.

In Ayurveda, Grahani refers to the site of Agni (digestive fire), which is responsible for the proper metabolism and digestion of food. Ancient Ayurvedic texts explain that Grahani governs the processes of ingestion, digestion, absorption, and assimilation of food (Aahaar). When this digestive fire becomes imbalanced or weakened, it leads to improper digestion of food, resulting in a pathological condition known as Grahani Roga.

Ayurvedic Management Of IBS

Ayurveda, as a holistic system, offers natural approaches to alleviate the symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). Some of the therapies that can aid in managing IBS include:

Agnidipana

This process primarily involves balancing the digestive fire and removing ama (toxins) from the gastrointestinal tract.

Vatanulomana

This process helps to restore and maintain the balance of Vata dosha.

Manonukulata

This therapy helps soothe the digestive system and addresses the root causes that aggravate IBS.

Shodhan

Shodhan is a detoxification process for the entire body. It also aids in transforming potentially harmful substances into beneficial elements.

Shaman

This process primarily rejuvenates the body by restoring balance and eliminating residual impurities following detoxification. In Ayurveda, it is a therapeutic treatment designed to revitalize the body and promote overall harmony and well-being after cleansing.

Peptic Ulcer/Parinama Shoola

Peptic ulcers are open sores that form on the inner lining of the stomach or the upper part of the small intestine. The most common symptom of a peptic ulcer is abdominal pain.

According to Ayurveda, consuming foods that have qualities similar to Vata can disturb its natural balance in its seat. During digestion, Vata gets aggravated and eventually obstructs (Aavarana) the functions of Kapha and Pitta, leading to colicky pain. Since this pain typically arises at the end of the digestive process, it is referred to as Parinama Shoola.

Indigestion/Ajeerna

Indigestion, also known as dyspepsia or an upset stomach, refers to discomfort in the upper abdomen. It is often experienced as a burning sensation, bloating, gassiness, nausea, or feeling full shortly after beginning a meal.

In Ayurveda, a weakened digestive fire is called Agni Mandya, while incomplete digestion and metabolism due to impaired Agni results in partially processed food, referred to as Ajeerna.

Hyperacidity/GERD/Amlapitta

Acid reflux disease, also called Hyperacidity or GERD, occurs when the stomach produces excessive acid that flows back into the esophagus, causing a burning sensation in the chest and throat. This condition can be uncomfortable and, if left unmanaged, may lead to more serious health issues.

In Ayurveda, Amlapitta (अम्लपित्त) refers to “acid gastritis.” It arises when Pitta, aggravated by individual factors and further intensified by the excessive consumption of hot, spicy, or sour foods, accumulates in the gastrointestinal tract. The primary symptoms of Amlapitta include indigestion, fatigue, bitter or sour belching, nausea, and a burning sensation in the upper abdomen and throat.