Pulmonary Hypertension - Ayurvedic Herbal Treatment

Pulmonary hypertension is a condition in which the pressure in the pulmonary circulation, mainly the pulmonary arteries, becomes elevated. This condition can be either primary (idiopathic), which is not caused by any disease or condition, or secondary, which results from some other underlying cause such as left-sided heart disease, chronic lung disease, pulmonary embolism and auto-immune disorders. The idiopathic or primary type of this condition commonly affects young people and is unusually aggressive and often fatal. Common symptoms include breathlessness, cough, fatigue, chest pain and symptoms of right or left ventricular failure.

The Ayurvedic treatment of pulmonary hypertension is aimed at treating the suspected pathology of the idiopathic variety, or treating the known cause of the secondary type of this condition. Left-sided heart failure may be treated using medicines like Arjunarishta, Dashmoolarishta, Laxmi-Vilas-Ras, Shrung-Bhasma, Maha-Laxmi-Vilas-Ras, Punarnavadi-Qadha, Panch-Tikta-Ghrut-Guggulu, Punarnavadi-Guggulu, Gomutra-Haritaki, Drakshasav, Arjun (Terminalia arjuna), Punarnava (Boerhaavia diffusa), Draksha (Vitis vinifera), Amalaki (Emblica officinalis), Gokshur (Tribulus terrestris), Haritaki (Terminalia chebula), Nimba (Azadirachta indica), Musta (Cyperus rotundus), Kutaj (Holarrhina antidysentrica), Patol (Tricosanthe dioica) and Saariva (Hemidesmus indicus). Chronic lung disease can be treated using medicines like Ras-Sindur, Malla-Sindur, Sameer-Pannag-Ras, Pippali (Piper longum), Kantakari (Solanum xanthocarpum), Kushtha (Saussurea lappa), Pushkarmool (Inula racemosa) and Vasa (Adhatoda vasaka).

Modern anti-coagulation therapy is indicated where recurrent pulmonary embolism is suspected to be the cause of this condition. Ayurvedic medicines like Triphala (Three fruits), Trikatu (Three pungent herbs), Chavya (Piper retrofractrum), Chitrak (Plumbago zeylanica) and Lashuna (Allium sativum) may be added to the modern therapy in order to prevent recurrent embolism. Auto-immune disorders like scleroderma and systemic lupus erythematosus need to be treated according to the individual presentation of the disease. However, medicines need to be given to correct the dysfunctional immune-system of the body. These medicines include Tulsi (Ocimum sanctum), Bhrungraj (Eclipta alba), Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera), Shatavari (Asparagus racemosus), Bala (Sida cordifolia), Naagbala (Grewia hirsuta), Suvarna-Bhasma, Abhrak-Bhasma and Suvarna-Malini-Vasant.

The primary or idiopathic type is believed to be caused by constriction of the pulmonary arteries or biochemical changes in the arterial smooth muscle cells due to a familial genetic abnormality. This condition may be treated using medicines which act on the arterial walls and reduce the constriction or obstruction. These medicines include Kutki (Picrorrhiza kurroa), Patol, Saariva, Patha (Cissampelos pareira), Musta, Kutaj, Amalaki, Haritaki, Nimba, Kuchla (Strychnos nuxvomica) and Behada (Terminalia bellerica). Medicines like Tapyadi-Loh, Ekang-Veer-Ras, Trayodashang-Guggulu and Bruhat-Vat-Chintamani can also be used for this purpose.

The prognosis of pulmonary hypertension usually depends upon the severity of the underlying cause. An early diagnosis and initiation of treatment is important in order to improve the overall prognosis. Ayurvedic medicines can be given as additional therapy to modern medicines in order to improve the quality of life and long-term survival.

Dr. A. A. Mundewadi is Chief Ayurvedic Physician at Mundewadi Ayurvedic Clinic based at Thane, Maharashtra, India. He is available as an online Ayurvedic Consultant at http://www.ayurvedaphysician.com

The online clinic offers Ayurvedic treatment for all chronic and refractory health problems. Dr. A. A. Mundewadi uses high quality herbal extracts in tablet form, which are easy to take, effective and safe for long-term use.

Dr. A. A. Mundewadi, B.A.M.S., has clinical experience of 24 years and clinical research experience of 10 years. He has conducted extensive research in HIV infection, Schizophrenia and many other chronic diseases.

Stomatitis (Mouth Sores) - Ayurvedic Herbal Treatment

Inflammation of the mouth is known as Stomatitis. It may be caused by poor oral hygiene, burns due to hot fluid or food intake, medications, allergic reactions, or infections. While the cause of recurrent apthous stomatitis (canker sores) is not known, nutritional deficiencies are believed to play an important role. The management of stomatitis depends upon the cause responsible for the disease.

Stomatitis is known as “Mukhpak” in Ayurveda. The standard Ayurvedic treatment for stomatitis is as follows. A decoction of Triphala (Three fruits), Patha (Cissampelos pareira), Manuka (dried grapes), and Jai (Jasminum auriculatum) leaves, combined with honey, is used for mouthwash. Cold water mixed with honey, or a decoction of Daruharidra (Berberis aristata) and alum is also used as a mouthwash. Jatyadi oil, or Kamdudha mixed with cream is used for local application on the sores. Khadiradi vati is used for sucking. Mild purgation is advised. In patients having recurrent stomatitis, blood letting is advised.

In Ayurveda, stomatitis is divided into five different types, depending upon the disturbed Dosha causing the symptoms. A small description of each type along with the specific treatment is given below.

In the “Vataja” type of stomatitis, there is severe pain, fissuring of the tongue, and intolerance of cold food stuff. Panchlavan (five salts), and medicated oils are used for local application. Herbal medicines useful here are: Arjun ( Terminalia arjuna), Erand (Ricinus communis), Khadir (Acacia catechu), Guggulu (Commiphora mukul), Jatamansi (Nardostachys jatamansi), Tagar (Valeriana wallichii), Deodar (Cedrus deodara) and Shilajit (Bitumen).

In the “Pittaja” type, there is severe burning, redness, and a bitter taste in the mouth. Induced purgation is advised in this type. Sugarcane juice, milk, grape juice and glucose water are used as a mouthwash. Dhatki (Woodfordia fruticosa) leaves are advised to be chewed. The same treatment, along with blood letting, is advised in the “Raktaja” type, where all symptoms are more pronounced.

In the “Kaphaja” type, there is comparatively less pain. The mouth ulcers are not very red, and are sticky. There is more of salivation, and a slight itching in the affected parts. Kutki (Picrorrhiza kurroa), salts and Kshars (medicated caustics) are used for local application. Decoctions of Palash (Butea monosperma) and Amalaki (Emblica officinalis), mixed with Kshar are used as a mouthwash.

In the last type of stomatitis called “Sannipataja”, there is a combination of symptoms of the vataja, pittaja and kaphaja types. Treatment is given according to the predominant symptoms. An Ayurvedic formulation containing Gorochan, Kasis, Alum, Rasanjan, Mocharasa (Salmalia malabarica) and honey is used for local application.

With the above treatment, most patients having only local symptoms get cured within a few days. For canker sore which are recurrent, or any stomatitis with very severe symptoms, a more prolonged treatment is usually required. In addition, patients may require oral treatment with herbal medicines, to correct imbalances in the body.

Dr. A. A. Mundewadi is Chief Ayurvedic Physician at Mundewadi Ayurvedic Clinic based at Thane, Maharashtra, India. He is available as an online Ayurvedic Consultant at http://www.ayurvedaphysician.com

Dr. A. A. Mundewadi, B.A.M.S., has clinical experience of 22 years and clinical research experience of 9 years. He has published his findings of herbal treatment of HIV / AIDS in 55 patients in the Bombay Hospital Journal, Mumbai, India, July 2005 issue.

He has also successfully completed a clinical trial of herbal extract medicines in Schizophrenia compared to modern anti-psychotics, in 200 patients. He has also conducted preliminary studies of Ayurvedic herbal extracts in the treatment of Bipolar Disorder, Vascular Dementia, Alzheimer’s Disease, Parkinson’s Disease, Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, Autism, Mental Retardation, Tobacco and Alcohol Addiction, Age Related Macular Degeneration and different types of Cancer.

Sinusitis - Ayurvedic Herbal Treatment

Sinusitis is an infection of the mucous membranes lining the sinuses, which are present in and around the face. Sinusitis may be acute or chronic. Acute sinusitis may improve on its own, but chronic sinusitis usually requires treatment.

Sinusitis is termed as “Dushta Pratishyaya” or “Peenas” in Ayurveda. Ayurvedic treatment is effective in both the acute and chronic types of sinusitis.

Oral medication is advised of ghee treated with Haridra (turmeric), Musta (Cyperus rotundus), Vishwa (Zinziber officinale), Karanj (Pongamia pinnata), Renukabeej (Vitex negundo), and Yava-Kshar. Medicated ghee containing Hinga (Ferula narthex), Yava-Kshar, Deodar (Cedrus deodara) is also recommended.

Medicated ghee containing Chafa (Michelia champaka), Dadim (Pomegranate) flowers, Sabja (Canna edulus) leaves, Kanher (Nerium indicum) leaves, Durva (Cynodon dactylon), Haridra (turmeric) and Keshar (Crocus sativus) is used as nasal drop for obtaining immediate relief from symptoms.

A procedure called “Shodhan Nasya” is used, in which medicated oil (Vacha oil, containing Acorus calamus) or Shigru (Moringa oleifera) seed powder or Madanphal (Randia spinosa) powder is put into the nostrils, after giving fomentation to the area surrounding the nose. This helps in draining the sinuses, and contributes to early recovery. For further reduction in sinus inflammation, mild medicated drops are used, such as Anu oil or Panchendriya vardhan oil.

Several Ayurvedic formulations are used for the treatment of sinusitis. Tribhuvankirti, Sitopaladi, Godanti Bhasma, Yashtimadhuk (Glycerrhiza glabra), Bhallatak Parpati, Shrung Bhasma and Sanjeevani vati are some of the well known compounds. Sookshma Triphala, Chaturbhuj Ras, and Gandhak Rasayan are used for symptoms like fever and inflammation. Most patients get significant relief in a period of two to six weeks.

For recurrent sinusitis, Ayurvedic compounds like Laghu Malini Vasant, Madhu Malini Vasant and Suvarna Malini Vasant are used along with Pippali (Piper longum). A special preparation called Chausashtha Pippali is used in a gradually increasing dose, followed by a gradually decreasing dose. Sometimes, several courses of these medicines are required.

A daily process of applying medicated nasal drops such as Anu oil or Panchendriya vardhan oil (known as “Pratimarsha Nasya”) is believed to prevent frequent occurrence of sinusitis. In addition, breathing exercises like Yogic Pranayam, and special procedures like the Yogic Neti, are also very useful. It is advisable to avoid known aggravating factors.

Dr. A. A. Mundewadi is Chief Ayurvedic Physician at Mundewadi Ayurvedic Clinic based at Thane, Maharashtra, India. He is available as an online Ayurvedic Consultant at http://www.ayurvedaphysician.com

Dr. A. A. Mundewadi, B.A.M.S., has clinical experience of 22 years and clinical research experience of 9 years. He has published his findings of herbal treatment of HIV / AIDS in 55 patients in the Bombay Hospital Journal, Mumbai, India, July 2005 issue.

He has also successfully completed a clinical trial of herbal extract medicines in Schizophrenia compared to modern anti-psychotics, in 200 patients. He has also conducted preliminary studies of Ayurvedic herbal extracts in the treatment of Bipolar Disorder, Vascular Dementia, Alzheimer’s Disease, Parkinson’s Disease, Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, Autism, Mental Retardation, Tobacco and Alcohol Addiction, Age Related Macular Degeneration and different types of Cancer.

Coma and Semi-Coma - Ayurvedic Herbal Treatment

Coma refers to a state of unarousable psychological unresponsiveness in which the subject lies with eyes closed and shows no response to external stimuli or inner need. Involuntary functions like heart-beat and respiration continue, though they may be irregular due to some concurring or causative disease. Deep coma refers to a state where corneal, pupillary, pharyngeal, tendon and plantar reflexes are all absent. Reflex eye movements are usually preserved in lesser degrees of coma. Semi-coma refers to that state where an individual responds to a painful stimuli by groaning, opening the eyes or with irregular respiration. The Glasgow Coma Scale is used to quantify the severity of coma by measuring eye -opening, motor response and verbal response. Coma may be caused by brain lesions, trauma, metabolic abnormalities, infections and drugs or physical agents.

The modern management of coma consists of removal of the cause; ensuring proper respiration and circulation; care of skin, bowels and bladder; control of infection; and surgical intervention if required. Ayurvedic medicines can be given as additional supportive therapy in order to reduce the duration of coma, facilitate early recovery and prevent long term disability. The Ayurvedic treatment of coma consists of giving supportive therapy to preserve and maintain life and treating the known cause. Medicines like Arjun (Terminalia arjuna), Pippali (Piper longum), Kantakari (Solanum xanthocarpum), Kutki (Picrorrhiza kurroa), Kutaj (Holarrhina antidysentrica), Bhumiamalaki (Phyllanthus niruri), Gokshur (Tribulus terrestris), Punarnava (Boerhaavia diffusa) and Triphala (Three fruits) are used to maintain adequate functioning of important organs like the heart, lungs, liver and kidneys. Medicines like Nardiya-Laxmi-Vilas-Ras, Maha-Laxmi-Vilas-Ras, Siddha-Makardhwaj-Ras and Hem-Garbha-Ras are used to maintain adequate body circulation of blood.

Medicines like Panchamrut-Parpati, Kutaj-Parpati and Suvarna-Parpati are used to prevent the formation of harmful toxins in the gastro-intestinal tract. Medicines like Maha-Manjishthadi-Qadha, Saarivasav, Punarnavadi-Qadha, Gokshuradi-Qadha, Punarnavadi-Guggulu and Gokshuradi-Guggulu are used to help excrete toxins from the blood through the urine. Triphala, Sukshma-Triphala, Triphala-Guggulu, Chandraprabha-Vati, Panch-Tikta-Ghrut-Guggulu and Ras-Manikya can be used to treat and eliminate infection.

Brain lesions can be treated using medicines like Kanchnaar-Guggulu, Punarnavadi-Guggulu, Pathyadi-Qadha, Panchamrut-Parpati, Shallaki (Boswelia serrata), Abhrak-Bhasma, Raupya-Bhasma, Trivang-Bhasma, Suvarna-Bhasma and Heerak-Bhasma. Metabolic disorders can be treated using medicines like Haridra (Curcuma longa), Daru-Haridra (Berberis aristata), Yashtimadhuk (Glycyrrhiza glabra), Amalaki (Emblica officinalis), Nimba (Azadirachta indica), Manjishtha (Rubia cordifolia), Saariva (Hemidesmus indicus), Patol (Tricosanthe dioica) and Patha (Cissampelos pareira). Drug toxicity can be treated using medicines like Sutshekhar-Ras, Bhunimbadi-Qadha, Arogya-Vardhini, Gokshuradi-Qadha and Punarnavadi-Qadha.

Lastly, Ayurvedic medicines can be given to actually strengthen and activate the nervous system tissue. Medicines like Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera), Yashtimadhuk, Brahmi (Bacopa monnieri), Jatamansi (Nardostachys jatamansi), Mandukparni (Centella asiatica) and Haridra are also very useful for this. Other medicines like Tapyadi-Loh, Ekang-Veer-Ras, Sameer-Pannag-Ras, Maha-Vat-Vidhwans-Ras, Vish-Tinduk-Vati and Maha-Yograj-Guggulu can also be used for this purpose. Ayurvedic medicines can thus play a very important and useful role in the successful management and treatment of coma and semi-coma.

Dr. A. A. Mundewadi is Chief Ayurvedic Physician at Mundewadi Ayurvedic Clinic based at Thane, Maharashtra, India. He is available as an online Ayurvedic Consultant at http://www.ayurvedaphysician.com. The online clinic offers Ayurvedic treatment for all chronic and refractory health problems. Dr. A. A. Mundewadi uses high quality herbal extracts in tablet form, which are easy to take, effective and safe for long-term use. Dr. A. A. Mundewadi, B.A.M.S., has clinical experience of 25 years and clinical research experience of 12 years. He has conducted extensive research in HIV infection, Schizophrenia and many other chronic diseases.

Diabetes Mellitus - Ayurvedic Herbal Treatment

Diabetes mellitus is a medical condition in which the capacity to produce insulin in the body is marginally or significantly reduced. Because of this condition, glucose uptake by the body cells becomes deficient, and blood sugar levels increase. Type 1 diabetic patients produce little or no insulin, and hence need insulin injections to control their blood sugar. Type 2 diabetic patients can control their blood sugar with a combination of diet, weight management, exercise and glucose-lowering medications.

Diabetes mellitus is known in Ayurveda as “Madhumeha”. Ayurveda describes the pathology of this disease as resulting from a disturbed “Meda, Kleda and Kapha”. It is believed that all the body tissues lose their vitality because of this condition.

Type 1 diabetic patients who are dependent on insulin injections should monitor their blood sugar and continue the injections regularly. Type 2 diabetic patients may be able to control their blood sugar with Ayurvedic medicines and other measures like diet restrictions and weight control.

Traditional Ayurvedic formulations useful in diabetes are: Arogya Vardhini, Vasant Kusumakar Rasa, Chandraprabha Vati, Prameha Gaja Kesari, Lodhrasava, Khadirarishta, Jambvasava, Trivanga Bhasma, and Suvarna Makshik Bhasma. Herbal medicines useful in this condition are: Haridra (Curcuma longa), Nimba (Azadirachta indica), Karela (Momordica charantia), Saptakapi (Casearia esculenta), Musta (Cyperus rotundus), Daruharidra (Berberis aristata), Arjuna (Terminalia arjuna), Khadeer (Acacia catechu), Lodhra (Symplocos racemosa), Guduchi (Tinospora cordifolia), Patol (Trichosanthe dioica), Vata (Ficus bengalensis), Udumbar (Ficus glomerata), Jamun (Syzygium cumini), Bilwa (Aegle marmelos) , Gudmar (Gymnema sylvestre), Methi (Trigonella foenum-graecum), Asana (Pterocarpus marsupium),Shilajit (Purified Bitumen) and Kumbha (Leucas cephalotes).

Most of the herbal medicines mentioned above reduce blood sugar gradually, and stimulate the body to secrete insulin on its own. These medicines also act on the “Meda” and “Kapha” tissues, reduce “Kleda”, and restore body vitality. Thus they act on the basic pathology of this disease. Taken for long periods, these medicines may help to reverse the disease process in diabetes, and give long lasting relief, or sometimes, even a permanent cure. Unlike modern medicines, medical emergencies like hypoglycemia (a sudden lowering of blood sugar) are not seen with the use of herbal medicines.

Long-term complications of diabetes include diseases related to the eyes, nerves, kidneys, heart, brain, intestines, sexual organs, skin and feet. Ayurvedic medicines are very effective in preventing or significantly reducing symptoms related to these complications, and are useful in both type 1 and type 2 diabetes. Ayurvedic medicines used specially for this are: Tapyadi Loha, Kaishor Guggulu, Agni Tundi Rasa, Vish Tinduk Vati, Kanchnaar Guggulu, Trayodashang Guggulu, Ekanga Veer Rasa, Vaat Gajankush Rasa and Amalaki (Emblica officinalis).

Thus, Ayurvedic medicines are useful both for reducing blood sugar and for treating long-term complications. These medicines can be used independently or as additional therapy to modern medicines. Ayurvedic treatment can significantly reduce the morbidity (severity of disease) and mortality (death rate) associated with diabetes mellitus.

Dr. A. A. Mundewadi is Chief Ayurvedic Physician at Mundewadi Ayurvedic Clinic based at Thane, Maharashtra, India. He is available as an online Ayurvedic Consultant at http://www.ayurvedaphysician.com

The online clinic offers Ayurvedic treatment for all chronic and refractory health problems. Dr. A. A. Mundewadi uses high quality herbal extracts in tablet form, which are easy to take, effective and safe for long-term use.

Dr. A. A. Mundewadi, B.A.M.S., has clinical experience of 23 years and clinical research experience of 9 years. He has conducted extensive research in HIV infection, Schizophrenia and many other chronic diseases.

Ayurveda Medicines, Ayurvedic Herbs and Ayurvedic Treatments

Ayurveda is not just only about treating diseases. Ayurveda is just about leading a healthy life in a physical, mental and divine level. The food items we eat, the air we breathe, the freshness of nature we experience, the fragrance we smell, the good sights we enjoy, all have potential medicinal values.

This is best illustrated by the story of Jeevaka’s test. It is the final test assigned by Jeevaka’s Acharya (teacher) Athreya.

Jeevaka (Jivaka), like other disciples of Atreya had to bring a herb or a leaf with no medicinal value. Jivaka, could not find such a plant or a herb. However, it was only a manifestation of superior knowledge he had on the value of plants, herbs and all elements of nature.

Jivaka explained that whatever plant he saw had some medicinal property, which can be used under optimum conditions for best results. He said even the slanting sunrays, cool breeze, the sound of water flowing through a rivulet, the singing of birds too have medicinal properties. Some have medicinal qualities to treat physical ailments while others have powers to cure mental disturbances.

One should look at Ayurveda medicines in this light. Nothing on the earth is without a reason. Every leaf, flower, root and stem has medicinal qualities under specific conditions.

Have a look at Ayurvedic medicines prepared by Ayurvedic herbs for different Ayurvedic treatments. Ayurvedic medicines are prepared by a combination of selected roots, leaves or stems of Ayurvedic medicinal herbs. These herbs form part of Ayurvedic massage oil, Ayurvedic herbal decoctions called kashaya, Ayurvedic jam called Rasayana, Ayurvedic Ghee called ghrita etc.

According to Ayurveda, diseases can occur when there is a slight imbalance in the basic humors of human body - vata, pitta and kapha, which collectively is known as tridosha or three doshas.

Ayurvedic treatment is a method of restoring balance of human system through proper application of medicine by drinking, eating or application by massaging.

Preparations of medicines are under controlled conditions. Slight variations from standard condition can spoil the medicine.

There are also quality standards for the medicinal herbs collected for Ayurveda medicine preparation.

Dev Sri provides insider information about Ayurvedic herbal medicine practices and Ayurveda in Kerala. Find more about Ayurvedic medicines at http://www.KeralaAyurvedics.com/.

Neem as Ayurvedic Home Remedy

In India neem is known as margosa or Indian lilac. It is an evergreen tree and cultivated in various parts of the Indian subcontinent. Neem has been extensively used in ayurveda, unani and homoeopathic medicine and has become a cynosure of modern medicine. Neem is called sarvaroganivarani or reliever of sickness. The tree is regarded as ‘village dispensary’ in India.

The importance of the neem tree has been recognized by National Research Council (USA), which published a report in 1992 entitled ‘Neem – a tree for solving global problems’.

All parts of neem have medical value.

Some medicinal uses of neem as mentioned in ayurveda are:

The leaf is used for treating eye problem, leprosy, intestinal worms, epistaxis anorexia skin ulcers, and biliousness.

The bark of the tree is used as an analgesic, and used to treat fever.

Neem flower is useful in suppressing bile, treat intestinal worms and phlegm.

Fruit helps in relieving piles, eliminate intestinal worms, treat urinary disorder, epistaxis, expel phlegm, cure eye problems, diabetes, wounds and leprosy.

Neem twigs are used in the cure of cough, asthma, hemorrhoids, intestinal worms, obstinate urinary disorder, and diabetes.

Gum obtained from the bark is a very effective for skin diseases like ringworms, wounds and ulcers, and scabies.

Pulp of the seed and neem oil are used in treating intestinal worms and leprosy.

A combination of the root, bark, leaf, flower and fruit is used in treating blood problems, bile afflictions, leprosy, itching, skin ulcer, urticaria etc.

A paste prepared with neem and turmeric was found to be effective in the treatment of scabies. In 97% of cases, the paste was found to cure scabies within 3–15 days of treatment without any adverse effect.

Dried neem leaves in the form of tea are used by the people of Nigeria and Haiti to treat malaria.

Application of neem oil on hair helps to kill head lice and cure dandruff.

Neem flowers help improve eyesight. For this purpose dry neem flowers are used, preferably 6 months to one year old. These flowers are fried lightly using ghee and then taken internally.

Thus the neem’s role in providing a cheaper, safe solution to modern day diseases is unsurpassed. No wonder it is called “arishta” in Ayurveda which means “reliever of sickness”.

By: Shaiju Joseph

About the Author:

Guggul – Herbal Remedies to Lower Cholesterol

Ayurvedic Arthritis Treatments

Ayurvedic Treatment for Allergic Rhinitis

Next Page »