What Are the Ayurvedic Remedies for Ulcer? - #10993

In Ayurveda, ulcers are often considered a result of Pitta dosha imbalance, especially when there is excess heat, acidity, and inflammation in the body. Pitta governs digestion and metabolism, and when it becomes aggravated, it can lead to conditions like gastric ulcers, mouth ulcers, or duodenal ulcers. While Pitta is the primary dosha involved, Vata and Kapha imbalances may also play a role in certain ulcer types, especially when there’s dryness or stagnation of digestive fluids. Herbs like licorice (mulethi), amla, and aloe vera are well-known for their cooling and soothing properties, making them excellent choices for ulcer treatment. Licorice is particularly beneficial as it has a demulcent effect, forming a protective layer over the stomach lining, while amla is rich in Vitamin C and supports the regeneration of tissues. Aloe vera offers healing and anti-inflammatory benefits, calming the digestive tract. These herbs can be consumed in various forms like powders, juices, or as part of formulations. For instance, amla powder can be taken with warm water, while aloe vera gel can be consumed directly or mixed with other soothing herbs like turmeric. Another effective Ayurvedic remedy for ulcers involves ghee and honey, both of which help soothe and repair the stomach lining. Ghee has a cooling effect and can lubricate the digestive tract, while honey acts as a natural antimicrobial agent. A common recipe is mixing 1 tablespoon of ghee with 1 teaspoon of honey, taken in the morning or before meals to help calm the digestive system. It’s usually taken once or twice a day for relief, but dosage can vary based on individual needs and symptoms. Dietary changes are crucial in Ayurvedic ulcer treatment. Spicy, sour, and fermented foods should be avoided as they can aggravate Pitta and irritate the ulcers. Beneficial foods include cooling and moistening options like coconut water, buttermilk, steamed vegetables, rice, and liquid porridges. Coconut water is particularly soothing for the stomach, while buttermilk can help balance Pitta and promote digestion without irritating the stomach lining. In addition to herbs and diet, Panchakarma therapies can play a significant role in ulcer treatment. Detoxification therapies like Virechana (therapeutic purgation) help eliminate excess Pitta and clear toxins from the body, which may be beneficial for ulcer healing. Shirodhara (a gentle stream of warm oil poured on the forehead) can help calm the mind and reduce stress, which may contribute to digestive issues. However, for someone with severe ulcers, these therapies should be done with caution and under the supervision of a qualified Ayurvedic practitioner, as they can be intense. For mild cases, they can be quite beneficial, but more gentle treatments like Abhyanga (oil massage) and Nasya (nasal therapy) may be recommended.