New Delhi, 15 September (IANS). Nowadays the problem of joint pain, stiffness and swelling has become very common. Earlier, this problem was seen only among the aged drawer people, but today young people are also suffering from this problem.
Arthritis is seen as a serious disease in Ayurveda. There are many types of it, of which osteoarthritis (occurring with age) and rheumatoid arthritis (an autoimmune disease) are the most common.
According to Ayurveda, when digestion in the body becomes weak, then incompletely digested food starts to collect in the body as a toxic element. When this toxic accumulates in the joints of the body in association with Vata Dosha, it is called rheumatoid arthritis. This condition is extremely painful and creates tightness, swelling and pain in the joints. At the same time, if Vata Dosha in association with blood defects causes interruption and inflammation in the joints, then it is called gout.
Treatment of arthritis in Ayurveda is not only limited to suppressing symptoms, but its purpose is to work at the root of the disease. In this, balance is established through catering and lifestyle, Panchakarma therapy, medicines and yoga-pranayam. Firstly, lamp-digestion drugs are used to improve the patient’s digestive system, such as Trikatu, Hingwashtak powder etc. After this, Panchakarma procedures like lubrication, swine and then vomiting or Volchan are adopted to take out the accumulated toxin in the body.
The major Ayurvedic medicines used in the treatment of arthritis include Maharasnadi Kwath, Yograj Guggulu, Sinhanad Guggulu, Ashwagandha Churna, Dashmool Kwath, and Pure Shilajit. These drugs mitigate vata dosha, reduce inflammation and increase the functionality of the joints. Along with this, the patient should avoid heavy, oily, citrus and strong food as they increase vata and mango. Hot water, light digestible food, and regular exercise are recommended.
Yoga and Pranayama are also helpful in the management of arthritis. Especially asanas such as Vajrasana, Trigonasana, and Bhujangasana maintain the mobility of the joints and relieve pain. Pranayama such as Anulom-Antonym and Bhastrika Vata helps in balance. Also, avoid sitting more time in one place.
-IANS
PIM/AS
