Treatment of Crohn's disease with Ayurveda
Crohn’s disease is a chronic inflammatory condition that can affect any part of the gastrointestinal (GI) tract, though it most commonly affects the ileum. This condition is characterized by inflammation of all layers of the intestinal wall. The disease was first described by Burrill Crohn in 1932, specifically identifying it as a chronic inflammation of the ileum. Crohn’s disease is considered to result from a complex interaction among the immune system, genetic predispositions, and various infectious, environmental, and psychological triggers. Crohn’s disease is mostly diagnosed in young patients between 25-40 and is more common in women than men, highlighting the need for effective disease treatment.
What is Crohn’s disease in Ayurveda?
In Ayurveda, Crohn’s disease can be correlated to a condition known as "grahani." Grahani is an anatomical region situated between the jejunum and ileum. According to Ayurvedic principles, the disease occurs due to the vitiation of pitta, which can be addressed through the best Ayurvedic treatment. this imbalance disrupts the normal functioning of the digestive system, leading to the symptoms and complications associated with the disease
According to Ayurveda, the location of Agni is in the grahani. When Agni is not functioning properly due to improper or incompatible food habits, ama (toxins) accumulate in the intestine. This accumulation, combined with increased pitta in the intestine, leads to the vitiation of Kapha dosha, resulting in the presence of mucus in stools. This disturbance in doshas is believed to contribute to the symptoms and progression of diseases like Crohn’s.
Subsequently, the pitta dosha becomes vitiated, resulting in inflammatory changes and ulcerations in the gastrointestinal tract. This leads to the presence of blood and pus in the stools.
If the pitta dosha is not functioning properly, it disrupts the normal absorption of nutrients. This improper absorption leads to malabsorption, weight loss, anemia, tiredness, and weakness
Correlation of Crohn’s Diseases with Grahani, Atisara –
As per Ayurvedic classical texts Annavaha Stroto Dusti, Pureesha Vaha Stroto Dusti, Vatika Grahani, Pittaja Atisara, Vataja Atisara (for Lakshana like Parikartika) Raktaja Atisara are co-related with Crohn’s diseases.
The psychological tendencies of Crohn’s disease are co-related with Shokaja and Sannipataja Atisara.
Etiology of Crohn’s disease:
1. Diet
2. Psychosocial factors.
3. Auto-immune response
4. Gene Mutation
5. Environmental factors: may not be the direct cause but indirectly plays a very important role in causing Crohn’s disease Substances like cigarette smoking, and microbes like viruses and bacteria, Yeast infection affects the lungs and intestinal tract of Crohn’s people badly.
Factors Leading to Vataja GrahaniOverindulgence in foods that are primarily pungent (katu), bitter (tikta), or astringent (kashaya), particularly those that are dry or have dehydrating properties; consumption of cold, chilled, or frozen items; inadequate food intake; suppression of natural urges; and excessive sexual activity can all contribute to the aggravation of vata dosha, which affects the digestive fire (Agni) and leads to its suppression.
Symptoms of Vataja GrahaniFood is not easily digested and tends to ferment, leading to rough skin, dryness in the throat and mouth, increased cravings for food, and heightened thirst. Additional symptoms include blurred vision (timira), ringing in the ears (tinnitus), persistent pain in the flanks, thighs, pelvic area, and neck, as well as sharp, all-over body pain (vishuchika) accompanied by vomiting and diarrhea. Other signs may include chest pain, weight loss, weakness, a lack of appetite, sharp pain, cravings for sweet, sour, and salty foods (madhuradi rasa), diminished mental clarity, and abdominal bloating (adhmana) that occurs during and after digestion, although the individual may feel abdominal relief immediately after eating.Bowel movements are difficult and time-consuming. Stools may be watery, dry, or small, often accompanied by gas and undigested food. The frequency of bowel movements may increase, and the patient might also experience coughing and difficulty breathing.
Factors contributing to pittaja grahaniSpicy foods (katu), indigestible items (ajeerna), foods that cause belching (vidahi), sour foods (amla), alkaline substances (kshara), and other food types that increase pitta are responsible for pittaja grahani. The heightened pitta disrupts the functioning of Agni, much like how hot water can extinguish a flame.
Symptoms of Pittaja GrahaniThe feces contain undigested food fragments that may appear bluish-yellow or yellow and are loose or watery in consistency. The rashes emit an unpleasant odor and possess a sour flavor. There is a burning feeling in the chest area (behind the sternum) and throat, along with a loss of appetite and increased thirst, which are indicative of pittaja grahani.
Factors contributing to kaphaja grahani include foods that are difficult to digest or overly oily, as well as frozen or cold items, or any food with properties akin to kapha. Additionally, consuming large quantities of food and lying down immediately after eating can impair the function of Agni and simultaneously disturb kapha.
Symptoms of Kaphaja GrahaniDigestion is challenging, accompanied by nausea, vomiting, and loss of appetite. Additional signs include a coated sensation in the mouth with a sweet taste, coughing, an increased urge to spit, nasal discharge, a feeling of heaviness in the chest, a sensation of immobility in the abdomen, a heavy abdomen, and belching that has an unpleasant odor and sweet flavor. The individual feels a lack of enthusiasm and experiences reduced libido. The stools are heavy and contain undigested food and mucus; even though the patient is not thin, they still feel weak and lethargic.
Sannipataja grahani arises from the concurrent disturbance of vata, pitta, and kapha. In these situations, the causes, symptoms, and indicators associated with all three doshas manifest.
Clinical features of Crohn’s disease:
o Intermittent pain
o Weight loss.
o fever.
o Lethargy.
o Intestinal obstruction,
o Iritis
o Arthritis, ankylosing spondylitis, and sacroiliitis.
o acute appendicitis-like pain
o Abdominal cramping and pain
o Reduce appetite
o Fistula
o Blood in stool
o Frequent urgency for bowel movement
o Nausea
o Vomiting in a few cases
o Shortness of breath
Diagnostic tests for Crohn's Diseases
Biopsy - This examination is performed on a tissue sample obtained during a colonoscopy.Colonoscopy or flexible sigmoidoscopy can be essential for identifying issues affecting the anus and rectum. Colonoscopy is frequently the preferred method as it allows for the inspection of the entire colon, whereas sigmoidoscopy only examines the lower section of the colon.
Abdominal X-ray - This imaging test can reveal potential blockages in the abdomen.
Upper gastrointestinal (UGI) tests - A UGI series assesses the upper portion of the digestive system. A UGI endoscopy investigates the inner lining of the esophagus, stomach, and duodenum.
Barium enema - This examination focuses on the large intestine (colon).
Computed tomography (CT) is a diagnostic procedure that employs X-rays to create detailed images of the internal structures of the body.
Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) utilizes a magnetic field along with pulses of radio wave energy to generate images of the organs and internal structures.Routine blood and urine analyses are conducted to detect low red blood cell counts (anemia), signs of inflammation, or nutritional deficiencies. Based on the observed symptoms, tests such as the erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR, or sed rate) or C-reactive protein (CRP) may be performed to investigate the presence of infection or inflammation.Stool tests might be conducted to check for blood, indicators of bacterial infections, malabsorption issues, parasites, or white blood cells. These tests can help differentiate between Crohn's disease and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), which may present with overlapping symptoms.
Capsule endoscopy (VCE) - This examination captures images of the digestive system using a small camera that you ingest. The photos are stored by a device that you wear on your waistband. This procedure enables your physician to visualize the small intestine, which is difficult to examine with other tests.
Small bowel enteroscopy - This procedure employs a long, flexible tube equipped with a light and a miniature camera that transmits images of the small intestine to a monitor. This allows the doctor to examine the small intestine closely. Additionally, the physician can collect small tissue samples.
Treatment of Grahani
Before discussing the treatment of Grahani (gastrointestinal disorders), it's important to address the causes that lead to the imbalance of doshas so they can be effectively eliminated.
For Vata, these are dry, bitter, cold, and tightening foods, stress, physical overload, and so on with the main symptoms being pain and gas.
Pitta dosha is increased by acidic, spicy, hot foods, and passionate emotions with main Symptoms of weight loss, bowel burning, and yellow stools, which can get bluish.
Kapha Grahani is triggered by consuming rich, sugary, and plentiful foods, along with a sedentary lifestyle and prolonged daytime sleep. While this condition can be addressed through Ayurvedic treatments, it does not typically result in weight loss. Instead, individuals often experience persistent fatigue, mucus in their stools, and frequent bouts of constipation.
Ayurveda emphasizes not only treating symptoms but also addressing the root cause of ailments to restore balance and promote holistic well-being. Individualized care including diet and lifestyle practices is crucial for effective healing and long-term health maintenance
Line of treatment of Crohn's Disease according to Ayurveda:
In Ayurveda, the treatment process often focuses on correcting Agni (digestive fire) and balancing Pitta dosha as they are crucial for overall health and well-being. The procedure goes with the removal of toxins, kindling agni, balancing pitta, then may include specific herbal formulations, dietary recommendations, and lifestyle modifications tailored to the person's needs with maintenance furthermore
Panchakarma therapies can be administered accordingly (therapeutic emesis, purgation, takradhara).
· Mrudu Virechana, or mild purgation, is a therapeutic procedure in Ayurveda aimed at balancing Vata dosha and facilitating its normal movement (Vata anulomana)
· Basti therapy is highly effective for conditions affecting the lower gastrointestinal tract, including inflammatory conditions like ulcerative colitis, Crohn's disease, and other disorders.
· Picha vasthy -It involves using a special Basti preparation containing Mocha Rasa, which is the gum of Bombax malabaricum (Indian cotton tree).
· Mocha Rasa has cooling and soothing properties, making it beneficial for inflammatory conditions.
· Takradhara is a unique Ayurvedic therapy that involves pouring medicated buttermilk (takra) in a continuous stream over the forehead or specific parts of the body.
In conditions like ulcerative colitis or gastritis where there is inflammation and heat, Takradhara can help to soothe and calm the inflamed tissues. It can provide relief from symptoms like abdominal pain, burning sensation, and discomfort associated with inflammatory bowel diseases. Gastrointestinal disorders are often aggravated by stress and anxiety. Takradhara has a calming effect on the mind and helps to reduce stress and nervousness.
Some Ayurveda Medicines that help treat Crohn's Diseases
Takrarista is known for its role in the improvement of symptoms related to digestive disorders.
Kutaja lehya
Dadimadi ghritha
Thikthaka ghritha
Dadimastaka choornam
Jhreberadi kashaya
Vilvadi Gulika
Mustarista
kutajarista is often recommended in the treatment of Grahani disease.
Chageryadi Ghritha etc can help
Preventive tips for Crohn's Disease:
Early to bed and early to rise.
Avoid food items that are hot and spicy in nature.
Avoid coffee, tea, and other dairy food items.
Hydrate well
Reduce stress and emotional problems.
What is Crohn's Disease according to Ayurveda?
Crohn's Disease is known as "Grahani" in Ayurveda. It is a chronic inflammatory bowel disease that affects the gastrointestinal tract, particularly the small intestine.
How does Ayurvedic treatment approach Crohn's Disease as compared to conventional medicine?
Ayurvedic treatment for Crohn's Disease focuses on balancing doshas, improving digestion, reducing inflammation, and enhancing overall health through a combination of herbs, dietary adjustments, lifestyle changes, and specific therapies.
What are the common symptoms of Crohn's Disease treated with Ayurveda?
Common symptoms include abdominal pain, diarrhea, weight loss, appetite changes, fatigue, cramping, and bloody stool.
Is Ayurvedic treatment safe and effective for managing Crohn's Disease?
Ayurvedic treatment is considered safe and effective in managing Crohn's Disease by addressing the root cause of the condition, reducing inflammation, and promoting overall digestive health.
Can Ayurveda provide long-term relief for Crohn's Disease?
Ayurvedic treatments aim to provide long-term relief by improving symptoms, reducing flare-ups, and enhancing the body's natural healing abilities over time.
How does Ayurveda view the causes of Crohn's Disease?
According to Ayurveda, imbalances in the doshas, poor digestion, improper diet, and lifestyle choices can contribute to the development of Crohn's Disease, emphasizing the importance of Ayurveda treatment for prevention and management.
What role does Ayurvedic therapy play in the treatment of Crohn's Disease?
Ayurvedic therapies such as Panchakarma, herbal remedies, dietary modifications, yoga, and meditation are used to manage symptoms, reduce inflammation, and promote overall well-being in individuals with Crohn's Disease.
Is grahani curable?
It's curable along with dietary regulations and lifestyle modifications
What is the stool test for Crohn's disease?
Calprotectin stool test
What is the best food to eat for Crohn's disease?
Freshly prepared cooked food
What tablets are used for Crohn's disease?
Vilvadi Gulika tablet can help you in treating the symptoms
Can IBS be cured permanently by Ayurveda?
Yes it can be with herbal medications
What foods do Crohn's patients avoid?
Hot, spicy and oily, uncooked foods
What is a superfood for Crohn's disease?
Dadima (Pomegrante / Punica granatum), vilva fruit (Aegle marmelos)
What is a good breakfast for Crohn's disease?
A low-fiber grain with an easily digestible nature
Can you eat rice with Crohn's disease?
Yes you can
Can Crohn's disease be detected by stool samples?
Calprotectin stool test
What does it mean if my calprotectin is high?
Your intestines are inflamed
What kind of stool does Crohn's have?
Loose and watery if you have diarrhea, hard and small if you have constipation
Does Ayurveda suggest any food habits for a better life?
Yes food plays a vital role in a healthy life
How To Know That Your Digestion System Is Working Fine?
You will have food tolerance, clean bowel habits, and a healthy digestive system
How Much Food To Eat Per Day As Per Ayurveda?
Ayurveda emphasizes eating wholesome, fresh, and seasonal foods in moderate amounts, tailored to individual needs and digestive capacity for optimal health and well-being.
What is the difference between IBD and IBS?
IBS affects the lower GI area, which includes the small intestine, large intestine, and colon. IBD causes inflammation of the intestines, often necessitating disease treatment to alleviate symptoms. IBD is a term for a broad spectrum of diseases, but Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis are the most common.
Will I be able to stop corticosteroids, immunomodulating drugs, and aminosalicylic acid using Ayurveda?
You can tap in and stop it along by following strong therapies in Ayurveda.