ARTHRITIS
In Ayurveda, arthritis is broadly classified under the category of “Vatavyadhi” (diseases related to Vata dosha), which encompasses various inflammatory and degenerative joint conditions. Ayurvedic texts describe arthritis as “Sandhivata” and “Amavata,” reflecting the involvement of joints and the presence of ama (toxins) respectively.
Types of Arthritis in Ayurveda
- Amavata: Rheumatoid arthritis characterized by the presence of ama (toxins) in the joints, causing inflammation, swelling, and pain.
- Vata-Rakta: Gout, where elevated levels of uric acid lead to joint inflammation and pain, aggravated by Vata and Pitta doshas.
- Sandhigata Vata: Osteoarthritis involving degeneration of joint cartilage and underlying bone, primarily due to Vata imbalance.
PANCHAKARMA THERAPIES ADVISED IN ARTHRITIS
- Virechana (Purgation Therapy): To eliminate ama and balance Pitta.
- Basti (Enema Therapy): Medicated enemas (especially Niruha Basti/KADHA BASTI) to pacify Vata and remove toxins from the colon.
- Abhyanga (Ayurvedic Oil Massage): Regular massage with warm oils to lubricate joints and reduce stiffness.
- Swedana (Herbal Steam Therapy): To relieve pain, stiffness, and inflammation.
External Therapies
- Lepa (Herbal Paste Application): Local application of herbal pastesor poultices to reduce inflammation and pain.
- Dhanyamla Dhara: Pouring of medicated fermented liquid on affected joints to alleviate pain and inflammation.
PANCHAKARMA THRAPIES IN OSTEOARTHRITIS
- Abhyanga (Oil Massage): Warm medicated oils to nourish and strengthen joints, reduce pain and stiffness.
- Swedana (Fomentation): Steam therapy to relieve stiffness and improve mobility.
- Basti (Medicated Enema): Specific to Vata disorders, helps in balancing Vata and improving joint function.
- Pizhichil: A specialized massage therapy involving the pouring of warm medicated oil over the body.
External Therapies
- Lepa (Poultice): Application of herbal pastes to reduce inflammation and pain.
- Kati Basti: Localized oil pooling therapy for lower back and hip joints.
- Janu Basti is a specialized Ayurvedic therapy for treating knee pain and osteoarthritis (Sandhivata). This therapy involves pooling warm medicated
oil on the knee joint for a specific duration. - Manya Basti is a specialized Panchakarma therapy in Ayurveda that targets disorders affecting the cervical spine (neck region), including osteoarthritis.
It involves the application of warm medicated oil to the cervical spine area.