I’m sorry to hear about your mom’s condition, and it sounds like it’s been really tough on her and all of you. Interstitial Lung Disease (ILD) is a serious condition, and given her current state—especially being on continuous oxygen and bedridden—immediate and primary care needs to be provided by her medical team for stabilizing her. But let’s talk about how Ayurveda can support her alongside her ongoing medical treatment, OK?
First off, with her weight being so low at 20 kgs, gaining strength is crucial. Ayurveda emphasizes nourishment of dhatus (bodily tissues), focusing particularly on improving the rasadhatu, which helps in overall nourishment and strength. Simple, easy-to-digest foods that are nourishing can be beneficial. Think of kitchari—a mix of rice and mung beans—as it’s light on digestion yet provides essential nutrients. Adding ghee can support digestion and increase nourishment.
Her weak agni (digestive fire) needs careful attention. You’d want to ensure she’s consuming warm, moist foods, avoiding raw or cold meals that might further weaken her digestion. A pinch of hing (asafoetida) or jeera (cumin) can be added to meals, aiding in boosting her digestion without overwhelming her system.
Breathing support is crucial, so pranayama or breathing exercises are typically suggested in Ayurveda, but given her condition, any activity should be under guidance. Facilitated, gentle breathing exercises, to the extent that she can manage, may help support lung function.
Her comfort and immediate environment matter too! Keep her space warm—cold can aggravate vata dosha, leading to more imbalance. Even simple things like gentle massages with warm sesame oil can be relaxing and nourishing.
Regarding medications or herbal remedies, nothing should be taken without consulting her primary physician who knows her complete medical history. Safety first!
Finally, any change or inclusion in her routine needs cautious and collaborative approach, making sure her main healthcare team is in sync with any Ayurvedic support you plan to introduce. Stay as involved and informed about her treatments as you can, and don’t hesitate to reach out to a certified Ayurvedic practitioner in your area to get more tailored advice. Keep us posted with her progress if you can!
