Ayurvedic Remedies for Gastric Ulcers & Holistic Wellness

A gastric ulcer, also known as a peptic ulcer, is a sore or hole in the lining of the stomach or the first part of the small intestine (duodenum). These ulcers often result from the erosion of the protective mucosal lining, exposing the underlying tissues to stomach acid. In Ayurveda, gastric ulcers often stem from imbalances in the doshas, which can disrupt the delicate harmony of the digestive system. In Ayurveda, these ulcers are associated with "Grahani Dosha," emphasizing the significance of balance within the small intestine. This blog post delves into Ayurvedic insights on gastric ulcers, their symptoms, causes, and Ayurvedic medicine for stomach ulcers relief.  

Understanding Gastric Ulcers

Gastric ulcers, characterized by sores in the stomach or duodenum, can result from factors like H. pylori infection or prolonged NSAID use. Ayurveda identifies imbalances in Pitta and Vata doshas as central to this condition, manifesting as symptoms such as sour belching, epigastric pain, and irregular bowel movements.  

Ayurvedic Symptoms of Stomach Ulcer

In Ayurveda, gastric ulcers or digestive disturbances are often associated with imbalances in the doshas, particularly Pitta and Vata. The symptoms may manifest as signs of impaired digestion and disturbances in the gastrointestinal tract. Some of the Ayurvedic symptoms commonly associated with gastric ulcers are as follows:  

1. Avipaka: Difficulty in digestion, leading to a feeling of heaviness and discomfort after meals.  

2.Malabadhata: Changes in the consistency and frequency of stools, ranging from loose stools to constipation. 

3.Vataja Symptoms: In some cases, symptoms related to vitiated Vata dosha may include bloating, gurgling sounds in the abdomen and variable appetite.

4.Amla-Pitta: Frequent sour belching or eructation, indicating increased acidity in the stomach.  

5.Hrid Shoola: Sharp or burning pain in the epigastric region (upper abdomen), often aggravated by spicy or hot foods.  

6.Daha: Sensation of heat or burning in the stomach, indicating aggravated Pitta dosha.  

7.Gaurava: Feeling of fullness or heaviness in the abdomen after eating, indicative of impaired digestive function.  

8.Vomiting and Nausea: Episodes of nausea, and in some cases, vomiting, as the body attempts to expel irritants from the stomach.  

9.Vibandha: Irregular bowel movements or constipation, often associated with disturbed Vata dosha.  

Causes of Gastric Ulcers According to Ayurveda

The causes of gastric ulcers are often explained in terms of imbalances in the doshas, primarily Pitta and Vata. Various factors contribute to the development of these imbalances, leading to disturbances in the gastrointestinal tract. Some Ayurvedic causes associated with gastric ulcers are as follows:  

1. Agni Mandya (Impaired Digestive Fire): Weak or impaired digestive fire (Agni) can lead to incomplete digestion, causing undigested food particles to accumulate and irritate the stomach lining.  

2.Vishamagni (Irregular Digestive Fire): Irregular and fluctuating digestive fire can result in the improper digestion of food, leading to the formation of toxins (ama) that aggrava4te Pitta dosha.  

3.Excessive Pitta Dosha: Aggravated Pitta dosha, associated with excessive heat and acidity, can erode the mucous lining of the stomach, leading to ulcer formation.  

4.Atyanta Ruksha Ahara (Excessive Dry and Spicy Foods): Regular consumption of excessively dry, hot, and spicy foods can contribute to increased heat in the digestive system, exacerbating Pitta dosha.  

5.Viruddha Ahara (Incompatible Foods): Combining incompatible foods, such as dairy with sour fruits, can lead to the formation of toxins that irritate the stomach lining.  

6.Emotional Stress and Agitation: Mental stress, anxiety, and emotional agitation can disturb the balance of doshas, particularly Pitta, influencing digestive function and contributing to ulcer development.  

7.Prakrita Dosha Dushti (Pre-existing Dosha Imbalance): Individuals with pre-existing imbalances in Pitta dosha or other doshas may be more susceptible to gastric ulcers.  

8.Vata Imbalance: Imbalanced Vata dosha, associated with dryness and irregularity, can contribute to disturbances in the digestive system, potentially leading to ulceration.

9.Overconsumption of Alcoholic Beverages: Excessive consumption of alcoholic beverages, which can aggravate Pitta and contribute to heat in the digestive system, may play a role in ulcer development.  

Also Read: Ayurveda's Holistic Guide to Gastric Ulcer Relief 

Ayurvedic Medicines for Gastric Ulcer

Ayurvedic management of gastric ulcers involves a holistic approach combining diet, lifestyle changes, and specific herbs and formulations. Some Ayurvedic medicines for gastric ulcers that can be corporate after the guidance from experts are as follows:  

1.Avipattikar Churna

• Ingredients: Amla, Haritaki, Vibhitaki.
• Benefits: Balances Pitta dosha, improves digestion and alleviates hyperacidity.

2.Shatavari Churna

• Ingredients: Derived from the Shatavari plant.
• Benefits: Known for its soothing properties, it helps cool excess heat in the digestive system and supports the healing of the gastric mucosa.

3.Guduchi Churna 

• Ingredients: Guduchi (Tinospora cordifolia).
• Benefits: Known for its immunomodulatory and anti-inflammatory properties, supporting the healing process and strengthening the digestive system.

4.Yashtimadhu Churna 

• Ingredients: Licorice.
• Benefits: It possesses anti-inflammatory properties, helps soothe the stomach lining, and is used in powder form or decoctions for its gastroprotective effects.

5.Kutajarishta

• Ingredients: Contains Kutaja (Holarrhena antidysenterica).
• Benefits: A fermented liquid preparation is beneficial for managing digestive disorders, including ulcers, and supports overall gastrointestinal health.

6.Amla (Indian Gooseberry)   

• Benefits: Rich in vitamin C, has antioxidant properties, aids in reducing inflammation, and promotes the healing of gastric ulcers.

7.Kumaryasava  

• Ingredients: Contains Aloe vera and other herbs.
• Benefits: An Ayurvedic fermented liquid preparation supports digestive health and aids in the management of gastritis and ulcers.

These formulations, when used as part of Ayurvedic management, contribute to a holistic approach to pacifying aggravated doshas and promoting digestive health for individuals dealing with gastric ulcers.  

Diet and Lifestyle Modifications to Get Rid of Stomach Ulcers

While seeking relief from gastric stomach ulcers, it's crucial to prioritize a holistic and sustainable approach rather than focusing on quick fixes. Ayurvedic management suggests a combination of dietary modifications, lifestyle changes, and the use of specific herbs and formulations to address the root causes and promote digestive health. Fast solutions may provide temporary relief, but a long-lasting cure involves adopting. Some of the practices that should be avoided or implemented are as follows:  

• A regular eating schedule with fixed mealtimes supports proper digestion.
• According to the Mental Health Foundation, in the past year, 74% of people have felt so stressed they have been overwhelmed or unable to cope. Stress-reducing practices like meditation and yoga promote mental calmness and balance Pitta dosha.
• Adequate and regular sleep contributes to overall well-being.
• Avoid excessive physical exertion, especially after meals, helps maintain a harmonious digestion process.
• Staying hydrated with room temperature or warm water throughout the day aids digestion, and adopting mindful eating habits, such as chewing food thoroughly, supports proper digestion.
• Dietary changes emphasizing a Pitta-pacifying diet, limiting spicy and acidic foods, and incorporating soothing herbal teas and Aloe vera juice contribute to a balanced and healing approach for gastric ulcers.

Conclusion  

For a more personalized approach and expert guidance, consider reaching out to Dr. Shivani Nautiyal, an esteemed Ayurvedic Consultant and Physician specializing in Panchakarma. Her expertise extends to addressing male and female health, fertility issues, and a spectrum of lifestyle diseases through holistic healing and Panchakarma therapies. To complement these practices, explore lifestyle tips and Ayurvedic medications offered by HealthyBazar, tailored to enhance digestion. You can also go through the ‘consult us’ page and select a physician for your ailment accordingly. With a commitment to overall well-being, this holistic approach ensures a balanced and sustainable path to digestive health.