A stomach ulcer refers to an lesion in the
inner lining of the stomach and the adjoining intestinal tract
called the duodenum. The ulcer located in the stomach is known
as a gastric ulcer, and that located in the duodenum is called
a duodenal ulcer. Usually, both are grouped together and
termed as stomach ulcer. In Ayurveda it is a disease of tri-doshic
nature i.e. Vata, Pitta, Kapha. But aggravation of pitta is
noted in all cases.
Causes:
A stomach ulcer is the result of hyperacidity, which is caused
by an increased in the hydrochloric acid in the stomach. This
strong acid, secreted by the cells lining of the stomach,
erodes the inner lining of the stomach. Dietetic indiscretion
such as overeating, taking of heavy meals or highly spiced
foods, coffee, alcohol and smoking are the main factors
contributing to this condition. Other causes are the ingestion
of certain drugs, food poisoning, certain infections, gout,
emotional disturbances, stress, and nervous tension.
Symptoms:
The systems of stomach
ulcer are sharp and severe pain and discomfort in the upper
part of the abdomen. Gastric ulcer pain usually occurs an hour
after meals and rarely at night. Duodenal ulcer pain usually
occurs between meals when the stomach is empty. The pain is
relieved by food, especially milk. As the disease progresses,
there is distension of the stomach due to excessive
flatulence, mental tension, insomnia, and gradual weakening of
the body. Blood may also be detected in the stool.
Herbs & minerals which is useful :
Giloy (Tinospora cordifolia) :
According to Ayurveda, Guduchi is a bitter tonic & diuretic.
The entire plant is regarded as a valuable alterative and
stimulant. It is useful in stomach ulcer, eye conditions, as a
tissue builder, helps development of intelligence, and retains
youth by helping to prevent premature aging. Its strength as a
febrifuge in malaria is seen in the common name "Indian
Quinine." It is also traditionally used for the management of
dyspepsia, food allergies, convalescence, liver disorders,
headache, and urinary disorders.
Amla (Emblica officinalis):
A
rich source of Gallic acid, tannic acid, albumin cellulose,
calcium etc and a extremely rich source of natural vitamin C
(that is Vitamin C is present 20 times more than orange juice.
It helps in balancing Tridoshas as it itself Pitta Shamak.
According to Ayurveda, Amalaki rebuilds and maintains new
tissues and increases red blood cell count. It is very useful
for stomach ulcer. It cleanses the mouth, strengthens the gums
and teeth, nourishes the bones, and is the highest natural
source of Vitamin C. It possesses all six tastes except for
salty, and is a rasayana for Pitta with sattvic properties.
Moti (Pearl):
The
medical virtues are described to Pearl are laxative, Sedative,
emetic and nutritive. Pearl ash is chiefly carbonate and oxide
of lime. The powder is used in stomach ulcer, heart burn and
bilious affections. Pearl powder (Mukta-bhasma) is also useful
in cough, phthisis and asthma, given twice a day with honey.
It reduces the yellowish tinge in the conjunctivae and in the
urine due to low fever and checks the burning during
micturation. It is also used as a cerebral tonic in nervous
disease as chronic headache, epilepsy and other convulsive
attacks.
Pearl is extremely safe. Safety studies on Pearl have shown it
to be absolutely harmless. It can be taken by anybody for the
course of a lifetime without negative side effects.
Shankha (Conch Shell ):
Shankha
Bhasma is one of the most important ayurvedic preparation to
treat ulcer.
Shankha bhasma caused significant reduction in ulcer index
(P<0.001) in both the indomethacin and cold restraint models.
TBARS of stomach in indomethacin treated rat was also reduced
(P<0.001) by Shankha bhasma but serum calcium level was not
altered. Shankha bhasma induced dose dependent protection
against experimental gastric ulcers.
Diet :
The diet of the patient
suffering from a stomach ulcer should be so planned as to
provide adequate nutrition, while affording rest to the
disturbed organs, maintaining continuous neutralization of the
gastric acid, inhibiting the production of acid, and reducing
mechanical and chemical irritation. Milk, cream, butter,
fruits, fresh raw and boiled vegetables, natural foods, and
natural vitamin supplements constitute the best diet. Patient
need to take at least 7-8 glass of water everyday. Patient
need not to stay in empty stomach.
Life Style:
Deep breathing exercises
are helpful. Above all the patient must try to rid himself of
worries and stay cheerful. He should also cultivate regularity
in his habits-be it work, exercise or rest.
