Ayurveda is an ancient Indian treatment. The origin of Ayurveda dates back thousands of years. Ayurveda basically means knowledge of life in Sanskrit. Ayurveda believes in holistic treatment. Ayurveda does not believe in one size fits all. Therefore, each and every individual is studied before any remedy is prescribed.
The same approach is followed to treat acid reflux. The main basis of any Ayurvedic treatment is the identification of the doshas. Doshas means “guilt”. According to ayurved, there are three doshas: vatta, pitta, and kapha. These doshas control the entire well-being of the body. The three doshas must be balanced and must work together to allow the body to function properly. When one of the three doshas is out of sync with the rest of the two doshas, it results in an ailment in the body.
According to Ayurveda, acid reflux is due to the improper functioning of the Pitta dosha subcategory called Pachaka. Pachaka pitta is located in the duodenum and intestines. Modern science also points to the stomach as the cause of acid reflux. Acid reflux occurs when the lower esophageal sphincter is not working properly. The lower esophageal sphincter is a one-way valve, which closes tightly after allowing food to enter the stomach. Thus, it prevents the acidic content from slipping into the esophagus. When it stops working properly, the acidic contents of the stomach come into contact with the lining of the esophagus causing irritation. The irritation is called acid reflux.
Usually the Pachaka pitta becomes unbalanced due to food intake, which is not actually favored by the stomach. Therefore, Ayurveda emphasizes avoiding foods that tend to relax the lower esophageal sphincter. This includes oily, spicy, sour, and fermented foods. Foods mixed with artificial preservatives, Ayurveda also considers color and chemicals to be bad for the stomach. It also discourages the use of alcohol and tobacco, as both are known to aggravate Pachaka dosha.
Ayurvedic treatment for acid reflux includes the consumption of herbs and foods that pacify the Pitta dosha. This includes foods like whole wheat, rice, organic barley, etc. Ayurveda also encourages the consumption of dark green leafy vegetables and other vegetables such as okra, broccoli, asparagus, cabbage, cauliflower, etc. People with acid reflux should not eat fast food or leftover or stale food.
Ayurvedic treatment for acid reflux also includes Yoga practice. Yoga is a form of exercise that helps to pacify the various dosha.
Therefore, Ayurved provides the option of receiving treatment for acid reflux without suffering unwanted side effects.
