what is scurvy - #18280
Recently, I came across the term scurvy, and I was surprised to learn that it is still a concern in some cases, despite being a disease from the past. I want to understand what is scurvy, how it affects the body, and whether Ayurveda has a natural way to prevent or treat it. From what I have read, scurvy is caused by a severe deficiency of vitamin C (ascorbic acid), leading to symptoms like fatigue, gum disease, slow wound healing, and easy bruising. Since vitamin C plays a role in collagen production, immunity, and overall tissue health, a deficiency can severely impact the body. I am curious about whether Ayurveda recognizes scurvy as a separate condition or if it is classified under a broader dosha imbalance. Does Ayurveda consider scurvy to be a Pitta-related disorder since it affects the blood and skin, or is it more connected to Kapha imbalances due to weakened immunity? I have also read that modern medicine treats scurvy simply by increasing vitamin C intake, but I want to know if Ayurveda takes a more holistic approach. Instead of just consuming citrus fruits, are there specific Ayurvedic herbs or remedies that naturally prevent or heal scurvy? I have heard that Amla (Indian Gooseberry) is one of the richest sources of vitamin C—does Ayurveda recommend it for scurvy prevention? Additionally, I want to know whether poor digestion or malabsorption issues could contribute to scurvy, even if someone is consuming enough vitamin C. If so, does Ayurveda suggest any herbal treatments or detox therapies to improve nutrient absorption and strengthen the digestive system? Another concern I have is whether scurvy affects different age groups differently. Can children, pregnant women, or elderly individuals be more vulnerable to vitamin C deficiency? If so, what are the best Ayurvedic dietary recommendations to keep the body naturally rich in vitamin C? Lastly, I would like to understand if scurvy-like symptoms can occur even in people who are not severely deficient in vitamin C. I sometimes experience bleeding gums and slow healing wounds—could this indicate a mild vitamin C deficiency, and how can I naturally correct it using Ayurvedic principles? Please provide detailed Ayurvedic insights on what is scurvy, its causes, symptoms, and how it can be prevented and treated naturally using herbal, dietary, and lifestyle modifications.
On the Ask Ayurveda service, online consultations with Ayurvedic doctors for General medicine are available for any issue that concerns you. Expert doctors provide consultations around the clock and for free. Ask your question and get an answer right away!
Doctors’ responses
If you need a detailed answer, ask the Ayurvedic doctor your question
The Ayurvedic doctor will answer all of your questions, advise you what to do now to get better, what to do in the future, what Ayurvedic treatments and practices should be followed.
About our doctors
Only qualified ayurvedic doctors who have confirmed the availability of medical education and other certificates of medical practice consult on our service.
Related questions
Collagen Powder - #17924
I have been hearing a lot about collagen powder and how it helps with skin, hair, and joints. Many people say it makes the skin look younger and improves elasticity, but I don’t fully understand how it works. What exactly is collagen powder, and how does it benefit the body? From what I read, collagen powder is usually made from animal sources like fish or bovine collagen. But does it actually get absorbed by the body, or does digestion break it down before it can be useful? If someone wants to take collagen powder, how long does it take to see visible results in skin texture and joint health? Can it help with wrinkles, hair growth, or even muscle recovery? Are there Ayurvedic alternatives to collagen powder? I have heard that Ayurveda uses herbs like Amla and Shatavari to support skin and connective tissue health—do these work in the same way as collagen? Can Ayurvedic formulations help naturally boost collagen production without the need for supplements? How does diet influence the body's ability to produce collagen? Are there Ayurvedic foods that naturally support collagen formation and keep skin firm and youthful? If someone has weak joints, sagging skin, or brittle hair, does Ayurveda recommend any specific herbal drinks or formulations instead of collagen powder? Are there Ayurvedic therapies, such as Abhyanga (oil massage) or herbal pastes, that improve collagen levels naturally? If someone stops taking collagen powder, will their skin and joints deteriorate again? What are the best long-term Ayurvedic approaches to maintaining youthful skin, strong joints, and overall collagen balance without relying on external supplements?
On the Ask Ayurveda service, online consultations with Ayurvedic doctors for General medicine are available for any issue that concerns you. Expert doctors provide consultations around the clock and for free. Ask your question and get an answer right away!
Doctors’ responses
