Ayurvedic Insights on Urinary Incontinence and Holistic Management Strategies

Written by

Dr. Ayush Varma

All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS)

I am an Ayurvedic physician with an MD from AIIMS—yeah, the 2008 batch. That time kinda shaped everything for me... learning at that level really forces you to think deeper, not just follow protocol. Now, with 15+ years in this field, I mostly work with chronic stuff—autoimmune issues, gut-related problems, metabolic syndrome... those complex cases where symptoms overlap n patients usually end up confused after years of going in circles. I don’t rush to treat symptoms—I try to dig into what’s actually causing the system to go off-track. I guess that’s where my training really helps, especially when blending classical Ayurveda with updated diagnostics. I did get certified in Panchakarma & Rasayana therapy, which I use quite a lot—especially in cases where tissue-level nourishment or deep detox is needed. Rasayana has this underrated role in post-illness recovery n immune stabilization, which most people miss. I’m pretty active in clinical research too—not a full-time academic or anything, but I’ve contributed to studies on how Ayurveda helps manage diabetes, immunity burnout, stress dysregulation, things like that. It’s been important for me to keep a foot in that evidence-based space—not just because of credibility but because it keeps me from becoming too rigid in practice. I also get invited to speak at wellness events n some integrative health conferences—sharing ideas around patient-centered treatment models or chronic care via Ayurvedic frameworks. I practice full-time at a wellness centre that’s serious about Ayurveda—not just the spa kind—but real, protocol-driven, yet personalised medicine. Most of my patients come to me after trying a lot of other options, which makes trust-building a huge part of what I do every single day.

Urinary incontinence is a prevalent yet often overlooked condition that can significantly impact one’s quality of life. Ayurveda, the ancient Indian system of medicine, provides a profound perspective on the interconnectedness of bodily functions and emphasizes a holistic approach to health. Incontinence, often considered as being unable to control one’s bowel or bladder movements, is a condition that is embarrassing and very difficult to manage. Moreover, it can have a major effect on a person’s everyday activities and quality of life.

Many people choose to employ natural medication over conventional medicine , such as Ayurveda, to control their symptoms and receive relief from the underlying cause, as opposed to various medical therapies that only offer temporary respite. Ayurveda is a traditional Indian medical practice that treats physical ailments with natural medicines and therapies. According to Ayurveda, incontinence is frequently linked to an imbalance in the Vata dosha, which governs the body’s nerve system, movement, and excretion.

Urinary Incontinence: An Ayurvedic Perspective

According to Ayurveda, urinary incontinence is caused by animproper diet and lifestyle, leading to an imbalance in Vata and Kapha and the formation of Ama. The Vata dosha governs the body’s nerve system, mobility, and excretion. Aggravated Vata settles in the urinary channel and carries Aam and Kapha throughout the body. When the Vata dosha is aggravated , it gets lodged in the bladder area , as a result the bladder muscles weaken and control over the flow of urine is lost, which can result in incontinence. It causes the tissues to be malnourished and to produce an excessive amount of toxins, such as Kleda. Extra toxins are eliminated by urine in this diseased state. Urine excretes more when there is an increase in Kleda production. Ayurveda also acknowledges that incontinence can result from other causes, including weak pelvic muscles, UTIs, hormone imbalances, and some medications.

Signs and symptoms

Leaking urine while performing routine tasks including lifting, bending, coughing, or working out.
Having an immediate, intense urge to urinate.
Urinating uncontrollably and without warning.
Being unable to get into a restroom in time.
Wet the bed while you’re asleep.
Frequent urination especially at night regardless to the quantity of urine.

The Causes

Obesity: This exerts more pressure on the bladder’s surrounding muscles. Because the muscles are weakened, there is a greater chance of leakage when the person sneezes or coughs.
Smoking: This may result in a persistent cough, which may lead to periods of incontinence.
Gender: Stress incontinence is more common in women than in men, especially in those who have had children.
Age: The muscles in our urethra and bladder weaken with age.
Chronic Health Illness: Numerous diseases and disorders, such as diabetes, kidney disease, spinal cord damage, and neurologic ailments like stroke, raise the risk.
Surgery: The use of radiation or prostate surgery for prostate disease might cause incontinence.
Increased abdominal pressure due to recurrent coughing, straining during defecation, sneezing etc.

Occasionally, the inability to retain urine can result in medical problems, discomfort, and embarrassment. They include;

Skin problems: People who have urine incontinence are more prone to rashes, infections, and skin ulcers because their skin is regularly wet. This leads to fungal infections and hinders wound healing.
Urinary tract infections: Prolonged use of a urinary catheter significantly raises the risk of infection.
Prolapse: when part of the urethra, bladder, or vagina prolapses into the vaginal opening. Usually, this is caused by weak pelvic floor muscles.

Ayurvedic Management of Incontinence

According to Ayurveda, an imbalance in the Vata dosha, which governs the nerve system, movement, and elimination in the body, is frequently linked to incontinence. Therefore, to enhance bladder control and lessen the symptoms of incontinence, Ayurvedic Home Remedies to Control Urinary Incontinence try to balance the Vata dosha.

Triphala

Three fruits with potent medicinal qualities, Amla, Haritaki, and Bibhitaki, are combined into triphala. It enhances digestion and helps control bowel movements. Before going to bed, take a dose of Triphala powder diluted in warm water to help ease the symptoms of incontinence.

Ashwagandha

Ashwagandha, a plant known for its adaptogenic properties, ashwagandha eases anxiety and stress. Additionally, it strengthens the neurological system, which can enhance control over one’s bladder. To lessen the symptoms of incontinence, take ashwagandha powder combined with warm milk before going to bed.

Gokshura

An Ayurvedic plant called gokshura has diuretic qualities that aid in enhancing bladder function. Additionally, it contains anti-inflammatory qualities that may lessen urinary tract inflammation. Take two doses a day of Gokshura powder combined with warm water to help reduce urine incontinence.

Sesame oil

Minerals and active compounds included in sesame seeds aid in the regulation of bladder function. To help strengthen the pelvic muscles and enhance bladder control, you can apply heated sesame oil.

To enhance bladder function, rub your lower belly with warm sesame oil before going to bed. Sesame seeds can also be used to treat frequent urination; simply combine them with jaggery and drink the combination twice or three times a day.

Various compounds and multidrug formulations and medicated ghees are advisable to reverse the degeneration of the pelvic apparatus and arrest the problem of incontinence. Medicated enemas known as basti chikitsa is highly beneficial in the management of urinary incontinence.

Ask-Ayurveda and its significance

Ask-Ayurveda, a pioneering Ayurvedic wellness brand, stands as a trailblazer in advocating comprehensive health solutions. Its unwavering commitment to well-being is evident through a diverse range of Ayurvedic remedies crafted specifically to address the patient’s concerns. From personalized remedies to herbal ones supporting overall wellbeing, Ask-Ayurveda stands as a natural haven for people seeking holistic alternatives.

Online Ayurveda Consultations

In the contemporary hustle and bustle, convenience is paramount. Ask-Ayurveda recognizes this need and provides online Ayurvedic consultations, enabling people to access personalized advice from experienced Ayurvedic practitioners within the comforts of their homes. Booking a free pre-online consultation with Ask- Ayurveda presents a valuable opportunity for discussing individual health concerns and receiving expert guidance on seamlessly integrating Ayurveda into one’s lifestyle. The digital age has revolutionized healthcare services, and Ask-Ayurveda exemplifies this transformation by offering online consultations. This virtual platform empowers people across Europe to connect with experienced Ayurvedic practitioners, fostering a holistic approach to health. Through these online sessions, individuals can openly discuss their concerns, obtain personalized advice, and gain insights from Indian Ayurvedic Doctors and Ayurveda practices tailored to their unique needs.

Book Your Free Pre-Online Consultation

Ask-Ayurveda distinguishes itself by offering a complimentary pre-online consultation, allowing individuals to experience the benefits of Ayurveda firsthand. This initiative facilitates an understanding of how Ayurveda aligns with individual health goals. It serves as an opportunity to book your free-pre online consultation and explore the holistic approach, seek answers to queries, and make informed decisions about integrating Ayurveda into their wellness journey.

Ayurvedic treatment for Urinary Incontinence offers a profound perspective on the issue, addressing not just the symptoms but the underlying imbalances within the body. By embracing dietary adjustments, herbal remedies, yoga, and lifestyle modifications, individuals can work towards restoring balance and promoting urinary health. The holistic nature of Ayurveda empowers individuals to take charge of their well-being, fostering not only physical health but also mental and emotional harmony.

Urinary incontinence is a complex condition, and Ayurvedic management of urinary disorders provides a comprehensive tool kit for managing it naturally. By understanding the interplay of doshas, incorporating personalized strategies, and embracing the mind-body connection, individuals can embark on a journey toward a more harmonious and balanced life. As always, seeking guidance from an Ayurvedic practitioner ensures a tailored and effective approach to managing urinary incontinence with the wisdom of Ayurveda.

This article is checked by the current qualified Dr Sujal Patil and can be considered a reliable source of information for users of the site.