Healing Of Autoimmune Disorders Through Ayurveda - An Ancient Medicine Science

Have you heard this quote "Health is Wealth" I think you all are aware of this quote because we have been hearing this since our childhood. This quote signifies the importance of health. In today's time due to increased urbanization, our diet has become very sedentary and poor. This poor diet will escort their way towards numerous diseases. Most of the diseases occurring due to this are Autoimmune Disorders. As we are Ayurvedacharya, so let's explain this from the Ayurvedic aspect and get to know about interesting facts!!!

AYURVEDA - ANCIENT MEDICINE SCIENCE

Ayurveda is composed of two words "ayur and veda" i.e. science of life. By the way, it's not only the science of life but it's beyonds that. Ayurveda mainly works on the concept of tridosha and panchmahabhuta (5 elements). Our body is composed of five elements and they are Akash (space), vayu (air), agni (fire), jala (water) and prithvi (earth). Then from these five elements 3 doshas (humors) are formed. Akash (space) and vayu (air) forms vata dosha, agni (fire) forms pitta dosha, jala (water) and prithvi (earth) forms kapha dosha. The balanced state of these three doshas is known as health. In our ancient classical texts, the definition of health is stated in below verse.

"Samdodha samagni samdhatu malkriya prasannatma indreya manns swasthaitiabhideyate"

(Charak Sutrasthana 15/41)

This shloka states that health is sam dosha (balanced vata, pitta, kapha), samagni (balanced digestive fire), samdhatu (balanced body tissues), malkriya (balanced excretion of waste products), prasannatma indriyamann (happy soul, senses and mind).

Acharya charak very elegantly explained about the dincharya (Daily regimen), ritucharya (seasonal regimen), so that we can stay away from diseases and build a good immune system. But if we do not follow the diet and healthy lifestyle as explained by our acharyas then it will lead itself to poor digestive fire i.e. mandagni. As a result, our body forms Aama.

NOW YOU MUST BE WONDERING WHAT AAMA IS?

In common language Aama is basically undigested metabolic waste or a toxin. As per acharya charak,

Dushiyatagnis dustoanna ntatta pachti laghavapi Apachyamanam shuktwam yatayannam visharooptama

(Charak Chikitsa 15/44)

Acharya charak explained that due to low or weak digestive fire, food is not being digested properly and as a result of which undigested amlapadharth is formed which is known as Aama (endotoxins). This aama now acts as poison and causes lots of autoimmune disorders. So the main cause of autoimmune disorders is Ama dosha (endotoxins). It is also known as Aama visha.

SO THE NEXT QUESTION IS HOW THIS AMA IS FORMED? WHAT ARE THE CAUSES?

The two main causes that promote ama formation are mandagni (poor digestion) and Viruddha ahara (Toxic food combinations). Viruddha ahara is defined as Food items which are opposite in action, properties, combinations etc are known as viruddha ahara. It is a very vast term which not only includes toxic combinations but also includes the food items which are opposite to season, time, nature etc.

TYPES OF VIRUDDHA AHARA (TOXIC FOOD COMBINATIONS)

1. Guna virudha (opposite in properties)- eg- Combination of Fish with milk
2. Sanyoga virudha (Opposite in combination)- eg- Jaggery with maize
3. Sanskar virudha (opposite action after cooking)-eg Cooked Haril pakshi with Mustard oil
4. Kalvirudha (opposite due to seasons)- eg Intake of cold and dry food items in winters
5. Matravirudha (opposite to proportion)- eg Equal quantity of ghee and honey
6. Swabhava virudha (Opposite to nature)- eg sarson ka saag and milk of shee

HERE ARE SOME OTHER FACTORS WHICH ALSO CONTRIBUTE IN AMA (ENDOTOXINS) FORMATION

• Abhojana (Skipping meals)
• Ajeernaashana (Intake of food during indigestion)
• Dushita bhojana (Contaminated food)
• Vega dharana (Suppression of natural urges)
• Ojakshya (weak immune system)
• Divashayan (irregular sleeping habits)

SYMPTOMS OF AMA (ENDOTOXINS) FORMATION INCLUDES

• Ajeerna (Indigestion)
• Anilamudhta (Impediment to the flow of Vayu)
• Mandagni (Poor digestive fire)
• Angsada (Malaise)
• Atyapraseka (Excessive salivation)
• Srotosang (Obstruction of channels)
• Balakshaya (Weak strength)
• Gauravata (Heaviness)
• Vegavrodha (Disturbance of the natural urges)
• Klama (Lethargy)

Ayurveda views these autoimmune disorders as a deep-seated deposition of ama (endotoxins) in the body tissues which prevents normal functioning.  Then our immune system targets these deposits to get rid of the accumulations in the body, which results in the overactive immune response and development of autoimmune disorders.

WHAT IS THE TREATMENT PROTOCOL FOR AMA (ENDOTOXINS) AND AUTOIMMUNE DISORDERS IN AYURVEDA?

Ayurveda mainly focuses on restoring the Agni (digestive fire) and oja (Immunity) which ultimately assists in managing these conditions and restoring the balance of the body. This can be done by aptarpana chikitsa.

"Leenam pakvashayastham vaapyaamam sravyam sadeepaneh shariranugatae saame rase langhanepachanam"

(Charak Chikitsa 15/75)

As per above shloka, when aam is in the intestines then we should do langhan (intermittent fasting) or use of agni deepak (digestion promoting) and virechak (purgative) medicines or herbs. This aids in managing amadosha (endotoxins).

Aptarpan Chikitsa

In aptarpana chikitsa mainly langhana (intermittent fasting) and deepan-pachana (Appetizing and digestive) play an important role. This can be done done with ayurvedic herbs and herbal formulations  After deepana pachana for complete elimination of prakupita dosha (elevated humors), sadhyo virechana (Purgation therapy) can be given followed by samsarjana karma (Dietary regimen along with medication therapy). Doshavsechan (removal of elevated doshas) can be done with detoxification panchakarma procedures.

Apart from all this, nidan parivarjana (Abstinence of the cause) is also important because Acharya sushrut said this as ardha chikitsa (half way of treatment).

NOW LET'S DISCUSS SOME OF THE AUTOIMMUNE DISORDERS!!!

1. Ulcerative Colitis - It is the autoimmune inflammatory condition in which there is formation of ulcers in the cecum and colon. As a result of which, the patient may experience increased motion frequency with blood and mucus in stools. Other symptoms may include Weakness, unintentional weight loss etc. In ayurveda we can correlate this with raktatisara , which occurs due to elevation of pitta dosha in the body. This can be managed very well by ayurveda with herbs like kutaj (Holarrhena antidysenterica), Bilva (Aegle marmelos), Lajjalu (Mimosa pudica) and numerous other pitta shamak (pitta pacifying) herbs.
2. Immune Thrombocytopenic Purpura - ITP is also a pitta disorder which can be correlated with ubhyamarga raktapitta. In this the symptoms may include low platelet count due to which bleeding occurs through mouth or Uterus etc.  This is also managed with ayurvedic herbs or minerals like Giloy (Tinospora cordifolia), Gandhak (purified sulphur), Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera), papaya leaves (Carica papaya) etc.

Few Other Autoimmune Disorders

1. Psoriasis
2. Scleroderma
3. Sarcoidosis
4. SLE
5. Nephrotic Syndrome

CONCLUSION

At last we can conclude that Ama is the prime cause of autoimmune disorders which can be managed very well with ayurvedic herbs and herbal formulations. To prevent the recurrence of the disease one must know about the healthy diet and lifestyle. In the last line I would say Eat healthy not less because it's not a short term diet but a long term lifestyle change.

Best Ayurvedic Clinic for Liver Cirrhosis Treatment in India

ABSTRACT

Liver is one of the most important organ of body as it plays crucial functions in our body such as production of bile for fat breakdown and to carry away waste during digestion, controls blood sugar levels, production of protein and enzymes, metabolism, detoxification, storage of iron, vitamins, hormone regulation, regeneration and helps to control immune responses. Due to unhealthy diet and lifestyle, functions of the liver get disturbed which can cause a serious condition called liver cirrhosis. Fortunately, studies found out that Ayurveda has the potential to treat such conditions.

INTRODUCTION

Liver being a multitasker, has to perform various functions which are significant for our body. Any kind of damage or problems in the liver can disturb the body functions, therefore it becomes a necessity to keep it healthy and fit. But many unhealthy habits like unhealthy eating, lifestyle, alcohol intake, medications, diseases etc can cause damage to the liver which leads to liver cirrhosis. Liver cirrhosis is a chronic condition which is caused by the replacement of normal liver tissues with fibrous scar tissues, resulting in malfunctioning and deterioration of the liver. Although the liver has the ability to regenerate most of the damaged cells, but, with the end stage of cirrhosis, the liver loses its ability to replace the damaged cells which results in formation of blocks that hamper the flow of blood through the liver.

Liver cirrhosis impairs numerous other functions such as:

• Infection control
• Removal of toxins and bacteria from the blood
• Process drugs, nutrients and hormones
• Production of proteins which regulates blood clotting
• Production of bile that metabolises fats, cholesterol and fat soluble vitamins

CAUSES OF LIVER CIRRHOSIS

There are many factors that leads to Liver cirrhosis such as:

• Excessive Alcohol consumption
• Viral infections such has hepatitis B,C virus or parasitic infection
• Autoimmune disorders
• Obesity
• Diabetes
• Prolonged use of steroids
• Exposure and accumulation of toxic chemicals and fats
• Protein deficiency
• Coronary artery disease
• Unhealthy diet and sedentary lifestyle
• Genetic metabolism or digestive disorder
• Wilson’s disease (condition caused due to accumulation of copper in the liver)

SYMPTOMS OF LIVER CIRRHOSIS

Most people do not develop any specific symptoms at initial stages in fact there were usually no signs till extreme damage. However as disease progress one may observe the following symptoms :

• Fever
• Loss of appetite
• Fatigue, vomiting, bloating, nausea
• Unexplained weight gain or weight loss
• Itchy skin with bruises
• Yellowing of skin and eyes (Jaundice)
• Swelling due to fluid retention in different body parts such as ankles, legs and abdomen.
• Abdominal pain
• Blood in stool
• Portal hypertension
• Immune system dysfunction
• Sensitivity to medications

DIAGNOSIS OF LIVER CIRRHOSIS

It can be diagnosed by using combinations of methods such as :

• Abdominal Computed Tomography (CT) scan to determine the severity of cirrhosis as well as other liver disease.
• Abdominal Ultrasound to create pictures of the internal abdomen including liver.
• Elastography to examine the stiffness of liver.
• Body magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) to evaluate the damage caused by liver disease.
• Magnetic resonance cholangiopancreatography (MCRP) to evaluate parts of liver and gallbladder.
• Biopsy to analyse extent of liver damage.
• Liver Function Test to analyse presence of particular enzymes

TREATMENT FOR LIVER CIRRHOSIS

In modern medicine there is no permanent solution of Liver cirrhosis. Still the treatments that will be prescribed by Allopathic doctors may include any or combination of the following.

1. Immunosuppressive medications like corticosteroids can be prescribed.
2. Diuretics will be given or other medication.
3. Liver transplant might be considered if other treatments are not effective.

But these allopathic treatments can lead to adverse effects, when dealing with medications and intervention such as

1. Immunosuppressants can increase the risk of infections, osteoporosis, weight gain, hypertension.
2. Diuretics can cause dehydration, electrolyte imbalance and kidney dysfunction. These medications can cause nausea, fatigue, liver toxicity or resistance.
3. Liver transplantation is not actually a solution rather a bigger problem as the body may reject the transplanted liver. Also increase susceptibility to infections and could lead to complications like blood clots, bile duct issues, graft versus host diseases.

Due to the chances of all these adverse effects on a patient's body, it is better to go for Ayurveda, a traditional Indian medicine system that offers a holistic approach to treat liver cirrhosis.

TREATMENT IN AYURVEDA

Liver cirrhosis treatment in ayurveda is often helpful in preventing and managing complications like. It is one of the best ways to rectify damage in the liver due to scarring. Ayurveda has the capacity to heal every damaged cell in the body. There are herbs and remedies that can treat liver cirrhosis naturally and effectively. Most of the liver disorders are the result of aggravation of pitta dosha. Liver cirrhosis is called Kumbha Kamala, in ayurveda, which is caused because of excessive load on the liver, which becomes chronic and leads to roughness of liver.

HERBAL REMEDIES BY PLANET AYURVEDA FOR LIVER CIRRHOSIS

Liver cirrhosis is a condition that can impact a person's Quality of life. Planet Ayurveda is the most trusted and renowned name in the field of Ayurvedic clinic for Liver Cirrhosis treatment. Their very first objective is to address the underlying cause of the condition and to manage symptoms and complications by balancing the body doshas and other essential elements. They aim to improve liver function, reduce inflammation and overall health of Liver. The treatment includes a combination of herbal remedies, dietary changes and lifestyle modifications to maintain total health and well being. LIVER CARE PACK is a well known combination of herbal formulations designed by Planet Ayurveda that will help in the treatment of Liver Cirrhosis. This pack consists of Yakrit Plihantak Churna, Phyllanthus Niruri, Echinacea Capsules, Liver Detox Capsules.

PRODUCTS LIST

1. Yakrit Plihantak Churna
2. Phyllanthus Niruri
3. Indian Echinacea
4. Liver Detox Formula

PRODUCTS DESCRIPTION

1. Yakrit Plihantak Churna

This Churna is herbal formula designed to support liver and spleen health. It is made from the combination of potent Ayurvedic herbs such as Kalmegh (Andrographis paniculata), Kaasni (Cichorium intybus) along with other herbs that made it a potent formulation in the treatment of Liver cirrhosis. These herbs are known for their liver detoxifying, anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. It is used to manage liver cirrhosis in combination with other formulations.

Dosage - It is powdered form and can be taken at a dosage of 1-2 tsp twice a day with water after meals.

2. Phyllanthus Niruri

These capsules are made from standardized extract of bhumi amla (Phyllanthus Niruri). This Herb is widely recognised in Ayurveda for its Liver Supportive and detoxifying properties. In the treatment of Liver cirrhosis it helps by promoting liver regeneration, reducing inflammation and protecting Liver cells from further damage. It has hepatoprotective effects which can help reduce the fibrosis and scarring associated with cirrhosis. It also enhances liver function and overall detoxification as it is rich in antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties.

Dosage - It is in capsule form and can be taken at a dosage of 2 capsules twice daily with warm water, 30 mins after meals.

3. Indian Echinacea

These capsules are made from standardized extract of Kalmegh (Andrographis paniculata), known for its immune-boosting, anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. These capsules help in supporting the immune system, reduce liver inflammation and provide antioxidant effects to combat oxidative stress. It also helps in detoxifying the Liver. Along with other herbal formulations it is very beneficial in the treatment of Liver cirrhosis.

Dosage - It is in capsule form and can be taken at a dosage of 2 capsules twice daily with warm water, 30 mins after meals.

4. Liver Detox Formula

These capsules are formulated by potent herbs like Kalmegh (Andrographis paniculata), Haritaki (Terminalia chebula), Himsra (Capparis spinosa), Jhavuka (Tamarix gallica) and many more. These herbs are known for their liver- protective, anti-inflammatory and detoxifying properties. These capsules are designed by Planet Ayurveda to support Liver health. They help in promoting Liver Regeneration, reducing Inflammation, supporting Detoxification and improving liver enzymes which are often elevated in liver cirrhosis.

Dosage - It is in capsule form and can be taken at a dosage of 2 capsules twice daily with warm water, 30 mins after meals.

Holistic healing of Planet Ayurveda through herbs in the form of herbal supplements, wellness products and personalised consultations make it stand on the top among all Ayurvedic clinics for Liver Cirrhosis Treatment.

Dr. Vikram Chauhan started this company with an interest and passion to serve humanity. To heal them from the chronic disease through ayurveda. Their 100% pure and herbal product formulations and standardised extracts of herbs make them loved all over the globe for its quality and effectiveness. Their vision is to spread 5000 years of ancient knowledge of Ayurveda all over the world to spread awareness about how to live a healthier life.

WHY CHOOSE PLANET AYURVEDA?

The reason why Planet Ayurveda is considered as the best ayurvedic clinic for liver cirrhosis treatment :

• Credentials and Experience: Along with Dr. Vikram and Dr. Meenakshi, The clinic has experienced team doctors/Ayurvedic practitioners with a good track record in treating all types of liver conditions, including liver cirrhosis.
• Patient Reviews and Testimonials: The reviews and the testimonials from the patients to gauge the clinic's effectiveness and reliability is really enough to identify the reason why it is considered as the best Ayurvedic clinic for liver cirrhosis treatment.
• Comprehensive Treatment Plans: Planet Ayurveda offers a holistic approach, including dietary recommendations, lifestyle changes, along with herbal treatments, so that you can live a healthy and a better life as these are crucial for overall well being.
• Consultation and Follow-Up: Clinic provides thorough consultations and follow-up care to monitor progress and adjust treatments as needed to ensure continuous improvement in patients health.
• Emphasis on Quality and Safety: Planet Ayurveda is committed to the quality and safety of their treatments. They use high quality, natural herbs and formulations that adhere to strict standards. Each remedy is prepared with intensive care to ensure its efficacy and safety.
• Patient-Centred Approach: Planet Ayurveda prioritises patient education and involvement. The practitioners take the time to explain the treatment process, answer their questions, and provide guidance on lifestyle changes. This patient-centred approach helps in empowering individuals to take an active role in their health and recovery.

Summary

Ayurvedic treatment is a valuable part of a care plan for liver cirrhosis, particularly in supporting overall well-being and addressing specific symptoms of the liver. Planet Ayurveda is indeed a well-known clinic specialising in Ayurvedic treatments and offer a unique holistic approach to manage liver health and conditions for liver conditions like cirrhosis. They offer a range of herbal and natural treatments aimed at supporting liver health. The certification from different reputed authorities like ISO, GMP, certificate which is valid even in EU, HACCP, US FDA, USDA and many more make it the most reliable and authentic brand for Ayurvedic consultations and treatments. It's crucial to consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.

All About Shilajit: Benefits, Medicinal Uses, and Busting The Myths

ABSTRACT

In this modern world, everyone is more curious to gain information from the internet rather than books. As we know, Some of the information on the internet is true and some is false. There are so many myths or facts found on the internet about this interesting mineral pitch called shilajit, which we are going to clear in this article. Today we will discuss in detail about the myths and facts about shilajit along with its numerous health benefits.

INTRODUCTION

Shlajit is also known as Ardhajatu, ASmaja, Gareya, Girija, saili dhatuja, Sailanieyasa etc. The rasa panchaka of shilajit includes tikta (bitter), katu (pungent) rasa (taste), katu (pungent) vipaka (effect after digestion). It mainly pacifies kapha dosha in the body and acts as a wonderful tonic and laxative. It is a natural rejuvenator and aphrodisiac. Now we will see some myths about shilajit.

MYTHS ABOUT SHILAJIT!!!!!

• Shilajit is not for kids
• Shilajit is only for men and women can’t consume it.
• Shilajit acts immediately and acts as chemical booster.
• Shilajit can only be used as viagra.
• Shilajit should not be cleaned or refined as it sheds off its nutrients.

Let’s elaborate these myths and clarify them!!

1. “Shilajit is not for kids” This is a myth that shilajit can only be consumed by young adults as it is an aphrodisiac or hot in potency. But this is not true children with 3 years of age or more than that can also consume this as it is a natural immunity booster and increases the ability of the body to fight with the infections. So use the purest form and take advantage of this wonderful mineral pitch (Asphaltum).
2. “Shilajit is only for men and women can’t consume it” The another myth about shilajit is it can only be used by men due to its aphrodisiac property. Apart from its vajikaran (Aphrodisiac) action, it acts as antibacterial, immunity booster, rasayan (rejuvenator), anti-oxidant properties due to which it helps in improving stamina and strength So this shilajit can be taken by women also.
3. “Shilajit acts immediately as chemical booster” It is a myth that shilajit acts immediately after taking and their result will be seen within 15-20 minutes. But this is not true. Shilajit will act slowly and give effective results in 2-3 months. So it is not a chemical booster, it acts slowly to give desirable results.
4. “Shilajit can only be used as viagra” The most common myth about shilajit is that it is the alternative of viagra (A allopathic medicine to improve sexual activity in males). The first thing that comes in everyone's mind after listening about shilajit is this. So it is the biggest myth!! Because shilajit is a natural immunity booster. It improves stamina, strength and acts as anti-ageing. This nourishes each cell of the body and removes all the harmful endotoxins. So shilajit is an amazing rasayan which can be consumed by everyone.
5. “Shilajit should not be cleaned or refined as it sheds off its nutrients” some other myth that comes is that shilajit can be taken in raw or unprocessed form because when it goes for refining it sheds off its nutritional value. But this is not true. As “International Journal of Ayurveda Research” warns to take impure form of shilajit because it contains fungus growth, free radicals etc. So it should be taken after a proper cleaning and refining process.

These are all the myths which should be replaced with the true facts that are already explained earlier. Now we will see some more medicinal benefits or properties about Shilajit.

MEDICINAL PROPERTIES

• Immunity modulator
• Antioxidant
• Rasayan (rejuvenator)
• Vajikarana (Aphrodisiac)
• Diuretic
• Anti-inflammatory
• Antidiabetic
• Anti aging
• Relaxes nerves and central nervous system
• Anthelmintic

INDICATIONS

Shilajit can be indicated in

• Polyuria
• Calculus
• Diabetes mellitus
• Dysuria
• Asthma
• Hemorrhoids
• Anemia
• Epilepsy
• Hysteria
• Edema
• Skin diseases
• Worm infestations

SHILAJIT CAPSULES BY PLANET AYURVEDA

Planet ayurveda is a GMP certified company offering herbal products across all over the world. They prepare lots of products for various health ailments under the guidance of expert ayurveda practitioners. And the best thing is that planet ayurveda products are devoid of any kind of side effects as they are prepared without adding any additive, preservative, chemical, colour, filler, binder etc.

Our shilajit capsules are prepared with pure Shilajit Resin Form which has been attested by NABL, India. It has been our continuous endeavor to break the myths around Shilajit since it is rich in so many nutrients and good for overall health & wellbeing the Ayurveda way. We believe we will be able to achieve our target of reaching a much wider audience towards breaking the myths around a wonderful natural product ‘Shilajit’, which sadly has been branded just as an aphrodisiac by the marketeers till date. Resin is the purest form of Shilajit, with endless benefits. Shilajit contains more than 84 minerals that help enhance strength and stamina. It also has anti-oxidant and anti-microbial properties which help boost immunity.

The dosage of shilajit capsules can vary according to age or gender.The standard dosage should be 1 capsule once a day. But every medicine should be taken by advice or under supervision of expert doctors.

CONCLUSION

At last, we can conclude that shilajit is a wonder mineral which should be consumed by every individual to keep their health better. I Must say you should start taking this medicine as it will keep you away from all the diseases and boosts your immune system. So what are you waiting for??? Use this formulation and keep yourself safe and healthy.

All About GIST (Gastrointestinal Stromal Tumor) And Its Ayurvedic Aspect

ABSTRACT

Tumor or cancer is a disease which scares everyone and has become most common these days. It not only hampers the quality of life of the patient but also affects them to the core. So here is today's topic of discussion named GIST which is also known as gastrointestinal stromal tumor. Let's see what Ayurveda has to say about GIST and how to manage this condition without compromising the quality of life of the patient.

INTRODUCTION

GIST is a soft tissue tumor of the gastrointestinal tract which can be located in any part of the digestive system. The outlook of this disease may vary from person to person depending upon the stage, prognosis or patient's body type. Around 83% of the population survived for 5 years after diagnosis of this disease. As there is advancement in the treatment of cancer so as per recent research their survival has been increased. It is more common in people over 40 years of age. The exact cause of this disease is not known but there are lots of risk factors which are as follows:-

• Age - Most common age group for developing GIST is 40 to 70 years.
• Genetic mutation- Rarely found in people with mutated genes itself during birth.
• Chemical exposure
• Weak immune system
• Poor diet and lifestyle
• Use of excessive Antacids, NSAIDs
• Excessive radiation exposure

SYMPTOMS

Patient with GIST develops Symptoms like:-

• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Pain in abdomen
• Bloody stool
• Bowel obstruction
• Abdominal mass
• Difficulty in swallowing
• Fatigue and tiredness
• Fullness of abdomen
• Discomfort
• Gastric formation

All these symptoms may vary from person to person as per the size of tumor or location. Now coming to the diagnosis, which can be done with CECT abdomen, USG, Endoscopic study etc. As per allopathy there is no treatment for GIST, only symptomatic management is done. Then at later stages, surgery is the last option.

AYURVEDIC OVERVIEW OF GIST

Ayurveda is a wonderful science which not only tells us the treatment of disease but also guides us with dietary and lifestyle changes to be done daily or seasonally. In Ayurveda, Arbuda is the word used for any abnormal cell growth in the body. It is a vicious cycle where there is an aggravation of doshas and formation of ama coupled with deformation of channels that triggers abnormal cell growth resulting in tumor formation. The three doshas vata, pitta and kapha are the basis of ayurveda and in tumors they loses their coordination and cause tissue damage to escort their way toward occurrence of critical conditions.

Role of Ama Visha in GIST

Due to imbalance in doshas the digestive fire gets weak and causes accumulations of endotoxins in the body i.e. Ama. Then this ama obstructs the channels which in turn create inflammation at that particular area which can be circular, bulged up, increased in size. Ama is a very vast term which has been highlighted since ancient times. As per ayurveda, most of the diseases are caused due to formation of ama (endotoxins).

"Dushiyatagnis dustoanna ntatta pachti laghavapi Apachyamanam shuktwam yatayannam visharooptama"

(Charak Chikitsa 15/44)

This shloka states that due to weak digestive fire, the undigested food results in formation of amla padarth named ama or amavisha (endotoxins).

You Might Be Thinking What Is Ama Visha?

Let me make you understand this thought as per today's world. In today's world everyone is more into urban food like junk food, fried, processed and packed foods. These foods come in combinations like cheese with sauce, Cheese with tomato, Imli with curd, Samosa and they are known as toxic food combinations which inturn produces a compound called dioxin. This dioxin compound breaks the signalic system of the body and blocks the channels. So our body doesn't recognise the cancerous cells and increases its production to that particular area or adjacent structures.

Role Of Vayu In Proliferation Of GIST

As we have discussed, there is an imbalance of all three humors in the body. Here vata dosha plays an important role.In this vata dosha is predominantly the reason because proliferation of cells is mainly due to vata dosha. As per ayurveda there is a quotation "vayurvibhajiyati" i.e vata is responsible for division which leads to proliferation of cells. So if we control the vata dosha then we'll move one step ahead of the treatment.

Role Of Past Life Karmas In GIST

As per ancient texts, there are many causes of tumors or arbuda but  Our acharyas considered Arbuda as a karmic disease which occurs due to poorva janma krit karma of the patient. Other risk factors include aging, Environmental exposure, improper lifestyle, lack of physical activity or suppressed emotions.

Symptoms As Per Tridosha Predominance

Symptoms like pain in abdomen, unexplained weight loss, tumor proliferation is mainly due to vata because vata is mainly predominated in pranavaha and asthi vaha channels.

Symptoms like inflammation, nausea, vomiting, unusual bleeding, nutritional disturbance is mainly due to pitta dosha because pitta is predominated in rakta vaha channels. Nutritional disturbance makes cells anaerobic thus leading to overgrowth. Uncontrolled increase in mass, indigestion like symptoms is due to kapha dosha because kapha is predominated in masavaha and medovaha channels. Kapaha dosha overloads all the dhatus with ama dosha. Therefore all the three doshas play an equal role in causing the arbuda or GIST.

There are 6 types of tumors as per acharya sushruta–

1. Vataj Arbuda
2. Pittaj Arbuda
3. Kaphaj Arbud
4. Raktraj Arbud
5. Mamsa Arbud
6. Medoj Arbuda

Some Tumors With Ayurvedic Correlation

1. Ras arbuda - Epithelialcarcinoma, Lymphoma, melanoma,
2. Raktarbuda - Leukemia
3. Mamsaarbuda - Myogenic sarcoma
4. Medoarbuda - Lipomayosarcoma
5. Astheyarbuda - Osteosarcoma
6. Majja Arbuda - Multiple myeloma
7. Shukra Arbuda - Testicular carcinoma
8. Artavaarbuda - Ovarian tumor
9. Stanyaarbuda - Breast cancer

So we can correlate GIST with Mamsa arbuda. As per ayurveda, Mamsa arbuda is well managed with ayurvedic herbs and wonderful classical formulations. We can improve the quality life of the patient by increasing the longevity with no or zero side effects.

Management Of Arbuda As Per Classical Texts:-

Arbuda can be managed by following three ways which are explained below:-

1. Management of Vata - To manage proliferation of cells we should focus on alleviating excessive vata from the body. For managing vata we should use dashamoola drugs, Eranda, haritaki, ajmoda, intake of medicated oils etc.
2. Detoxification of Ama (Endotoxins) - Ama dosha can be detoxified by two ways i.e By shodhan of body with detoxification procedures like panchkarma and shaman with ayurvedic herbs like chitrak, bhallataka, black peer, Shunthi, jeerak, pippali moola, ajwain, chavya etc.
3. Rasayan Chikitsa (Improving Immunity) - This treatment modality can be done to improve the immunity of the patient which is possible with healthy lifestyle like light exercise,  consuming proper food, sleeping at right time, avoid viruddh ahar (intake of toxic food combinations),   decreasing anxiety,  emphasize positive emotions or by avoiding excess use of five white substances- White sugar, White salt, White hydrogenated oil, White flour and White rice. Along with a healthy lifestyle you should include rasyan dravya like Amla, bhallataka, Giloy, Mandukaparni, Yashtimadhu, Brahmi etc. Rasay treatment prevents the growth of tumor cells due to its antioxidant properties and brightens the cells with prasad bhaga by improving agni so selecting an appropriate rasayan according to arbuda is very important. Some important rasayan prayogas are :-
   • Bhallataka rasayana
   • Chitraka rasayana
   • Shilajatu rasayana
   • Lashuna rasayana
   • Pippali rasayana
   • Haritaki rasayana
   • Guggulu rasayana
4. Gomutra Therapy -  Gomutra has been used in classical texts since ancient times. It is well explained by acharya sushruta and vagbhata with its numerous therapeutic actions and also as an ingredient of panchgavya (Godughda, gomutra, ghee, curd, dung). This is very effective in managing GIST or arbuda.
5. Ayurvedic Herbs to Manage GIST - There are lots of herbs which assist in managing arbud or tumor. Kanchnar (Bauhinia variegata), bhallataka (Semecarpus anacardium), Curcumin (Curcuma longa), Giloy (Tinospora cordifolia), Tulsi (ocimum sanctum), Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera), anantamul (Hemidesmus indicus), triphala, guggul (Commiphora mukul), Kumari (Aloe barbadensis) etc. All these herbs possess Anticancer properties which aids in alleviating extract proliferated cancerous cells.
6. Role of Rasaushadhi in Managing GIST - Rasaushadhis (herbo-mineral preparations) are the one which has a very good effect in patients suffering from cancer or tumor. Many Rasaushadhi's like:-
   • Abhrak bhasma
   • Shankha visha bhasma
   • tutha bhasma
   • heerak bhasma
   • swarna bhasma
   • tamra bhasma
   • Arbudohar ras
   • Amar sunder ras
   • Arogya sagar ras
   • Udaya Bhaskar ras
   • Umashambhu ras

CONCLUSION

Therefore, coming to an end, I hope that fear of your mind must have gone away after reading this article. GIST is a tumor whose allopathic treatment is surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, hormonal therapy, targeted therapy and palliative care. All these treatment modalities hamper the quality of life and cause a bundle of side effects. So we should adopt ayurveda because it not only manages the diseases but also improves the quality of life with no adverse effects.