- Written By: Dr.AnjuPriya, BAMS , CAC ,FCCAP, Ayurvedic Diet and Nutrition, UWAY Consultant
Gastritis, known in Ayurveda as “Amlapitta” or “Urdhwaga Amlapitta,” is caused by an imbalance of the doshas, especially Pitta dosha, which governs heat and metabolism in the body. The aggravation of Pitta, often due to improper diet, stress, or lifestyle, leads to excess acid production, resulting in symptoms akin to gastritis. Ayurvedic remedies for gastritis focus on rebalancing the doshas to restore digestion and overall health.
Causes of Gastritis
Gastritis is inflammation of the stomach lining, which can have a variety of causes. Common factors include:
Infections
- Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori): A common bacterial infection that disrupts the stomach’s mucosal barrier.
- Viral, fungal, or parasitic infections: Rare but possible, especially in immunocompromised individuals.
Medications
- Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs): Such as ibuprofen and aspirin, can irritate the stomach lining.
- Steroids: Prolonged use can increase the risk of gastritis.
- Certain antibiotics: May disturb the stomach’s natural balance.
Lifestyle Factors
- Excessive alcohol consumption: Irritates and erodes the stomach lining.
- Smoking: Can increase stomach acid production and weaken the protective lining.
- Chronic stress: May lead to increased stomach acid or other changes that promote inflammation.
Autoimmune Disorders
- Autoimmune gastritis: The immune system attacks the stomach lining, leading to chronic inflammation.
- Often associated with conditions like pernicious anaemia.
Dietary Factors
- Spicy or acidic foods: While not a primary cause, they can exacerbate symptoms.
- Irregular eating habits or overeating
Medical Conditions
- Bile reflux: Bile flowing back into the stomach can cause irritation.
- Chronic diseases: Such as Crohn’s disease or sarcoidosis.
- Zollinger-Ellison syndrome: Excess stomach acid due to a rare tumor.
Other Factors
- Radiation or chemotherapy: Damage to the stomach lining as a side effect.
- Trauma or surgery: Physical stress to the stomach.
- Ageing: The stomach lining thins naturally with age.
Symptoms of Gastritis
- Abdominal Pain: Often in the upper abdomen or stomach area; can feel like a burning, aching, or gnawing sensation.
- Bloating: Feeling full or swollen in the abdomen.
- Nausea: A feeling of unease or discomfort in the stomach, which may lead to vomiting.
- Vomiting: Sometimes includes blood (hematemesis) or material that looks like coffee grounds, which indicates bleeding.
- Indigestion (Dyspepsia): Discomfort or pain after eating, often accompanied by a feeling of heaviness.
- Loss of Appetite: A decreased desire to eat, which can contribute to weight loss.
- Black, Tarry Stools (Melena): Indicates bleeding in the stomach.
- Hiccups or Belching: May occur more frequently due to irritation in the stomach.
- Less Common Symptoms: Weakness or fatigue (if anaemia develops due to bleeding), low-grade fever (in some cases of infection-related gastritis).
Types of Gastritis
1. Acute Gastritis
Causes:
- Infection (commonly Helicobacter pylori).
- Use of NSAIDs or corticosteroids.
- Excessive alcohol consumption.
- Stress-related mucosal damage (e.g., from severe illness, trauma, or surgery).
- Bile reflux.
Symptoms:
- Nausea.
- Vomiting.
- Stomach pain.
- Loss of appetite.
2. Chronic Gastritis
Subtypes:
- Type A (Autoimmune Gastritis): Caused by the immune system attacking the stomach lining; associated with pernicious anaemia.
- Type B (Bacterial Gastritis): Most commonly caused by Helicobacter pylori infection; can lead to ulcers or stomach cancer if untreated.
- Type C (Chemical Gastritis): Resulting from prolonged use of NSAIDs, bile reflux, or exposure to irritants like alcohol.
Symptoms:
- Often mild or asymptomatic but may include bloating, nausea, and stomach pain.
3. Erosive Gastritis
Severe form of gastritis that causes the stomach lining to wear away, leading to ulcers or bleeding.
Causes:
- NSAID overuse.
- Alcohol abuse.
- Severe stress (e.g., burns, trauma, critical illness).
- Certain infections.
Symptoms:
- Black, tarry stools (indicative of bleeding).
- Vomiting blood or coffee-ground-like material.
- Severe stomach pain.
4. Non-Erosive Gastritis
- Inflammation without significant erosion of the stomach lining.
- Causes: Often linked to H. pylori infection.
- Symptoms: Subtle or similar to chronic gastritis.
5. Reactive (Chemical) Gastritis
- Inflammation caused by irritants such as bile or NSAIDs.
- Causes: Long-term NSAID use; bile reflux.
- Symptoms: Nausea, vomiting, persistent stomach discomfort.
6. Atrophic Gastritis
- Chronic gastritis leading to the loss of gastric gland cells.
- Causes: Often associated with H. pylori or autoimmune conditions.
- Complications: Increased risk of gastric cancer, nutrient deficiencies (e.g., vitamin B12, iron).
Ayurvedic Remedies for Gastritis
Ayurvedic treatment for gastritis focuses on balancing the aggravated doshas (especially Pitta) and restoring digestive health through natural remedies, dietary adjustments, and lifestyle practices. Below is an overview of Ayurvedic recommendations for managing gastritis:
1. Herbal Remedies
- Amla (Indian Gooseberry): A potent source of Vitamin C, it soothes the stomach lining and reduces acidity. Consume fresh juice or powder mixed with water.
- Licorice Root (Mulethi): Helps reduce inflammation and protects the stomach lining. Prepare as a tea by boiling a teaspoon of liquorice root powder in water.
- Aloe Vera Juice: Calms inflammation and aids in healing the stomach lining. Take 1-2 tablespoons of fresh aloe vera juice before meals.
- Triphala: Balances digestion and detoxifies the system. Consume half a teaspoon of warm water before bedtime.
- Shatavari: Known for its cooling and healing properties, it supports the stomach lining. Take as a supplement or mix with warm milk.
2. Dietary Recommendations
- Avoid Aggravating Foods:
- Spicy, oily, and fried foods.
- Caffeinated beverages like coffee and tea.
- Carbonated drinks and alcohol.
- Processed and packaged foods.
- Eat Cooling Foods:
- Fresh fruits like pomegranate, apple, and banana.
- Vegetables like cucumber, bottled gourd, and pumpkin.
- Dairy products like buttermilk and milk (if tolerated).
- Use Digestive Spices:
- Cumin (Jeera), fennel (Saunf), coriander (Dhania), and turmeric (Haldi) in cooking.
3. Lifestyle Changes
- Meal Timings: Eat at regular intervals and avoid skipping meals.
- Hydration: Drink lukewarm water or herbal teas throughout the day.
- Chewing Habits: Chew food thoroughly to improve digestion.
- Stress Management: Practice meditation, deep breathing, or yoga to reduce stress, which can aggravate gastritis.
- Sleep: Maintain a regular sleep schedule and avoid late-night meals.
4. Detoxification Therapies (Panchakarma)
- Virechana (Therapeutic Purgation): Removes excess Pitta from the body.
- Shirodara: A calming therapy that helps in reducing stress and balancing Pitta. It should be done under the guidance of an Ayurvedic doctor.
5. Home Remedies
- Buttermilk with Cumin Powder: Drink daily to soothe the stomach.
- Coconut Water: Reduces acidity and cools the system.
- Ginger Tea: Aids in digestion and reduces nausea.
6. Yoga and Pranayama
- Yoga Poses: Practice Vajrasana, Pawanmuktasana, and Bhujang
Conclusion
Gastritis can significantly affect your daily life, but with the right approach, it’s possible to find relief and restore digestive health naturally. Ayurvedic remedies for gastritis offer a holistic way to address the root causes, balance the doshas, and promote long-term well-being. By incorporating soothing herbs, maintaining a healthy diet, adopting stress-reducing practices, and following Ayurvedic detox therapies, you can manage gastritis effectively without relying on harmful habits or treatments.
Remember, every individual’s condition is unique, so it’s essential to consult an experienced Ayurvedic doctor for personalized guidance and care. Take the first step towards healing by embracing Ayurveda’s timeless wisdom and living a healthier, more balanced life.
