Ulcerative Colitis (UC) is a chronic inflammatory bowel disease that affects millions of individuals worldwide, that can cause discomfort, pain, and a reduced quality of life for those who suffer from it. While modern medicine has made significant strides in managing Ulcerative Colitis symptoms, preventing its recurrence remains a challenge. Ayurveda, the ancient system of natural healing from India, offers a holistic approach to not only managing Ulcerative Colitis but also preventing its recurrence and promoting overall well-being. In this blog, we will explore how Ayurvedic practices, as advocated by Dr. Manoj Deshpande, can play a crucial role in achieving lasting relief from Ulcerative Colitis.
What is Ulcerative Colitis?
Ulcerative Colitis is characterized by inflammation and ulcers in the inner lining of the colon and rectum. Its signs can be debilitating, including abdominal pain, diarrhea, rectal bleeding, and fatigue. Managing these symptoms is crucial, but equally important is preventing relapse and maintaining a healthy gut.
Ayurvedic Insights into Ulcerative Colitis:
Dr. Manoj Deshpande, a renowned Ayurvedic Doctor in Pune, Maharashtra, emphasizes that Ulcerative Colitis is primarily caused by an imbalance in the body’s doshas, specifically the Pitta and Vata doshas. Dr. Manoj Deshpande is treating Ulcerative Colitis and involves restoring this balance through personalized dietary modifications, lifestyle changes, and herbal remedies.
- Balancing Pitta Dosha: Pitta dosha represents fire( Agni) component in the body. Excessive Pitta can cause inflammation, a common feature of UC. Dr. Deshpande suggests cooling herbs like aloe Ushir, coriander, and licorice to pacify Pitta and reduce inflammation.
- Calming Vata Dosha: Vata dosha, governs movement in the body. Imbalanced Vata can lead to irregular bowel movements and pain. Ayurvedic oils, gentle massages, and warm, easily digestible foods can assist in balancing Vata, promoting overall gut health.
For more information and treatment modalities watch our informative video
Preventing Ulcerative Colitis Recurrence: Ayurvedic Practices:
Here are some Ayurvedic practices that Dr. Manoj Deshpande suggests for preventing ulcerative colitis recurrence:
1) Dietary Modifications: Dr. Deshpande emphasizes the importance of an individualized diet plan. People with Ulcerative Colitis can benefit from following Ayurvedic dietary approaches. Some suggestions include:
-Avoid spicy, greasy, and processed foods that can worsen inflammation.
-Favoring easily digestible foods such as cooked vegetables, rice, and well-cooked lentils.
-Incorporating anti-inflammatory spices like turmeric and ginger into your meals.
2) Stress Management: Ayurveda recognizes the strong connection between the mind and the gut. Chronic stress can trigger Ulcerative Colitis episodes. Dr. Deshpande advocates for regular meditation, yoga, and breathing exercises to manage stress and promote emotional well-being.
3) Herbal Supplements: Ayurvedic herbs play a crucial role in preventing UC recurrence. Dr. Deshpande often prescribes formulations containing Nagarmotha, Suwarn gairik, jatifal, Shunthi, bilwfal etc.to his patients. These herbs have anti-inflammatory and gut-soothing properties, aiding in long-term management.
4) Lifestyle Changes: Adequate sleep and a consistent daily routine are critical in Ayurveda. Dr. Deshpande suggests his patients maintain a regular sleep schedule and engage in light exercises like walking to boost overall health.
Ayurvedic Lifestyle Modifications:
-Yoga and Pranayama: Regular yoga asanas and pranayama (breath control) exercises improve digestion, relieve stress, and improve overall well-being. Incorporating these practices into daily routines can significantly contribute to preventing Ulcerative Colitis recurrence.
-Oil Pulling: This ancient Ayurvedic method involves swishing oil in the mouth to improve oral and gut health. By removing toxins from the body, oil pulling can support the recovery process and prevent relapses.
-Abhyanga (Self-Massage): Abhyanga, or self-massage with warm, herbal oils, can pacify aggravated doshas and promote relaxation. Massaging the abdomen with specific oils can ease digestive issues and minimize inflammation in the colon.
5) Panchakarma: In severe cases, Dr. Deshpande may suggest Panchakarma, an Ayurvedic detoxification procedure that helps remove toxins from the body balance the doshas, and improve overall health, which may contribute to preventing UC recurrence. Specialised basti( Ayurvedic retention enema) is administered so as to heal the ulcers in colon. This is a very effective panchkarm treatment for ulcerative colitis
6) Consultation with an Ayurvedic Practitioner: It’s crucial to work with a qualified Ayurvedic practitioner who can evaluate your individual constitution (Prakriti) and imbalances (Vikriti) to create a personalized treatment plan.
7) Regular Follow-up: Dr. Manoj Deshpande advises regular follow-up appointments to monitor your improvement and make required adjustments to your Ayurvedic regimen.
Conclusion:
Ayurvedic practices can be an effective way to help prevent Ulcerative Colitis recurrence. By following a healthy diet, making lifestyle changes, and using herbal remedies, you can reduce your risk of having a flare-up.
If you’re struggling with Ulcerative Colitis, consulting with an experienced Ayurvedic practitioner like Dr. Manoj Deshpande may be a step towards a healthier and more comfortable life. By embracing Ayurveda, individuals with Ulcerative Colitis can enhance their quality of life and reduce the risk of recurrent flare-ups.