Ancient Ayurvedic treatment for acid reflux
Ayurveda is an ancient treatment from India. The origin of Ayurveda dates back thousands of years. Ayurveda basically means knowledge of life in Sanskrit. Ayurveda believes in holistic treatment. Ayurveda does not believe in a one size fits all. Therefore, each and every individual is studied before any remedy is prescribed.
The same approach is followed to treat acid reflux. The main basis of any Ayurvedic treatment is the identification of the doshas. Doshas means ‘failure’. According to Ayurved there are three doshas: vatta, pitta and kapha. These doshas control the entire well-being of the body. The three doshas must be balanced and must work together to allow the proper functioning of the body. When one of the three doshas is out of sync with the rest of the two doshas, it gives rise to an ailment in the body.
According to Ayurveda, acid reflux is caused by the malfunction of the Pitta dosha subcategory called Pachaka. The Pachaka pitta is located in the duodenum and intestines. Modern science also points to the stomach as the cause of acid reflux. Acid reflux occurs when the lower esophageal sphincter doesn’t work properly. The lower esophageal sphincter is a one-way valve, which closes tightly after allowing food to enter the stomach. Thus, it prevents the acidic contents from slipping down into the esophagus. When it stops working properly, the acidic contents of the stomach come into contact with the lining of the esophagus causing irritation. The irritation is called acid reflux.
Usually, the Pachaka pitta becomes unbalanced due to the intake of food, which is actually not supported by the stomach. Therefore, Ayurveda emphasizes avoiding foods that tend to relax the lower esophageal sphincter. This includes oily, spicy, acidic, and fermented foods. Foods mixed with artificial preservatives, color and chemicals are also considered by Ayurveda to be bad for the stomach. He also advises against the consumption of alcohol and tobacco, as both are known to aggravate the Pachaka dosha.
Ayurvedic treatment for acid reflux includes the consumption of herbs and foods that pacify the pitta dosha. This includes foods like whole wheat, rice, organic barley, etc. Ayurveda also encourages the consumption of dark green leafy vegetables and other vegetables like okra, broccoli, asparagus, cabbage, cauliflower, etc. People suffering from acid reflux should not consume fast food and leftover or stale food.
Ayurvedic treatment for acid reflux also includes the practice of Yoga. Yoga is a form of exercise that helps in the pacification of the various doshas.
Ayurved therefore offers the option of receiving acid reflux treatment without suffering unwanted side effects.