Ayurvedic Medicine for Digestion
What is Digestion?
Digestion is a process that converts nutrients in the food we ingest into forms that the gastrointestinal tract can absorb. Both mechanical and chemical digestion are required for proper digestion. Digestion occurs in the oral cavity, stomach, and small intestines.
Importance of Digestion
Digestion is essential for breaking down food substances into nutrients, which the body uses for energy, growth, and cell repair. Before the blood absorbs them, food and drink substances should be changed into smaller molecules of nutrients. After that, they get carried to the cells throughout the body.
Causes of Indigestion
Indigestion has many reasons. Common causes are,
- Overeating / quick eating
- Fatty, greasy, and spicy foods
- Consuming excessive caffeine, alcohol, chocolate, and carbonated beverages
- Smoking
- Stress and anxiety
- Certain medications for pain and iron supplements
- It can also be caused by certain medical conditions like
- Gastritis
- Acidity / peptic ulcers
- Celiac diseases
- Stomach cancer
- Intestinal ischemia
- Diabetes
- Thyroid
- Pregnancy
Symptoms of Digestive Disorders
- Epigastric pain
- Burning sensation
- Bloating
- Nausea and vomiting
- Burping
- Regurgitation
- Acid reflux
- Heartburn
- Feeling fullness very soon when starts to eat
Ayurveda Approaches to Digestion
In Ayurveda, digestive care is termed Agni chikitsa. Digestive fire or Agni is essential for overall well-being. One should eat according to Prakriti and Agni, choose foods that balance the tridoshas, and avoid incompatible food combinations. Ayurveda has regular detoxification through panchakarma therapies, particularly Agni karma, for digestive issues.
Ayurvedic Treatment and Medicines for Digestive Problems
Ayurveda has panchakarma therapies that help detoxify (flushing out toxins or waste items). Medicated enema, medicine-induced vomiting, drug-induced purgation, and bloodletting are the types of detoxification methods. These methods strengthen the digestive system. Abhyanga (massage) and Siro Dhara (pouring medicated oil over the head) help relieve stress, enhance overall bodily function, and aid in proper digestion. Along with external treatment, internal herbal medicines are also very helpful in getting proper digestion. The following are some of the herbs that aid in proper digestion,
- Chukku (Dry ginger/zingiber officinale) has stomachic and carminative properties, and it aids in proper digestion.
- Jeeragam (Cumin / Cuminum cyminum) boosts the production and activities of various digestive enzymes. It relieves gas, promotes digestion, and helps to reduce the symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).
- Athimathuram (Licorice / Glycyrrhiza glabra) treats digestive problems and provides good digestive health.
- Kirambu (Clove / Syzygium aromaticum) helps treat gastric problems like indigestion and flatulence.
- Omam (Ajwain / Trachyspermum Ammi) helps relieve indigestion, bloating, flatulence, and gastritis.
- Elakkai (Cardamom / Elettaria cardamomum) helps to ease digestion and acidity. Also, it prevents nausea and vomiting.
- Milagu (Pepper / Piper nigrum) helps for better digestion & reduces abdominal discomfort.
Dietary and Lifestyle Recommendations for Good Digestion
Lifestyle has a good impact on the digestive system, which is responsible for breaking down food substances and absorption of nutrients. Some of the lifestyle changes are,
- Diet – take more fruits and vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins, and limit or avoid processed junk or high-fat food.
- Physical activity – regular exercise helps in the proper production of digestive enzymes and thus promotes proper digestive health.
- Stress – A stress-free life is beneficial for an overall healthy being.
- Limit or quit – Smoking and alcohol consumption.
- Sleep – adequate sleep is essential not only for digestive health but also for general well-being.
