Tennis Elbow and its Management in Ayurveda

Tennis elbow also known as Lateral epicondylitis is a condition that affects the tendon of the elbow joint causing pain around the outside of the elbow. The inflammation in the tendon is caused due to the increased strain, overuse and wear & tear of the muscles attached to your elbow and wrist. The condition has its name since it is most commonly seen in people involving in racquet sports like tennis. However, it is not required that only people who play tennis get it, other physically demanding activities which put the muscles of extension of the elbow under a lot of stress also can contribute to the condition.

Ayurvedic Understanding of Tennis Elbow Condition

According to Ayurveda, Tennis Elbow condition is majorly caused due to the vitiation of Pitta dosha in the starting stage then leading to the aggravation of Vata dosha as well. The vitiated doshas results in difficulty of the movement of elbow.

Causes of Tennis Elbow according to Ayurveda

1. Repetitive or continuous strain over the elbow due to restless movements
2. Lack of strength or flexibility within the forearm muscles
3. Lack of strength within the shoulder muscles.
4. Excessive pressure on nerves

Symptoms of Tennis Elbow according to Ayurveda

1. Swollen, red and warm elbow
2. Pain in the outer part of the elbow
3. Tenderness and inflammation in the outer part of the elbow
4. Pain on movement especially while lifting objects
5. Wrist pain while grasping objects
6. Dull ache even in resting position
7. Pain radiating downward into the forearms
8. Elbow stiffness in the morning
9. Weakness in the wrist joint

Management of Tennis Elbow through Ayurveda

Ayurvedic approach to the treatment of Tennis Elbow condition includes administration of anti-inflammatory Ayurvedic medicines, application of medicated oils/powders to the area with mild massage, sweating treatment (Swedana), Lepanam and Pichu treatment is also recommended depending upon the severity of the condition.

 

 

Irritable bowel syndrome also termed as ‘Irritable colon’ or ‘Spastic Colon’ is referred to the collection of symptoms that are caused by irritability and irregularity in the action of

both the small and large intestines. It is primarily a gastrointestinal disorder that is triggered by stress related factors at most cases.

Ayurvedic Understanding of Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) , is called ‘Grahani’ Roga in Ayurveda which transpires due to slow and sluggish digestive fire that is termed as Agni in Ayurveda. When Agni gets imbalanced, it causes large addition of ama or toxins that eventually leads to a

damaged and weak digestive system. Also, the imbalance of tri-doshas Vata, Pitta and Kapha in a body can affect Agni leading to IBS as well.

Factors that cause IBS according to Ayurveda

According to Ayurveda, the problem of IBS arises because of the malfunctioning of the

digestive tract that occurs basically due to inappropriate lifestyle factors and other

reasons as mentioned below –

1. Improper and excessive food intake

2. Irregular food habits

3. Dry and junk foods

4. Alcohol

5. Spicy or fatty foods

6. Improper sleep

7. Anxiety, stress and fear

8. A stressful life event

Symptoms of IBS according to Ayurveda

1. Abdominal pain

2. Recurrent diarrhea

3. Bloating of abdomen

4. Distention of the stomach

5. Fatigue

6. Excessive thirst

7. Heartburn

8. Flatulence or Gas

9. Vomiting, Nausea, Diarrhea

10. Mucus in the stool

Management of IBS through Ayurveda

The treatment of Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) aims at stabilizing the function of Agni

so as to ease the process of digestion and restoring the balance of tri-doshas.

According to the dosha characteristic of a person and based on the symptoms,

Ayurvedic treatments are advised. Panchakarma treatments like Vamanam,

Virechanam, Abhyangam, Shiro Dhara etc. and other external therapies are used

generally as per the symptoms to treat IBS. Also, internal medications are advised

based on the symptoms of the patient.

Ayurveda also recommends certain lifestyle and food changes, yoga and meditation for

the treatment of IBS.

Diet

1. Increase intake of fiber food

2. Eat more easy-to- digest foods

3. Have more vegetables and fruits

4. Sip buttermilk every day and also cumin seeds

5. Avoid citrus foods, curd, cheese, spicy foods, caffeine, carbonated drinks, alcohol,

cigarettes etc.

Lifestyle

1. Exercise regularly

2. Eat more slowly properly chewing the foods

3. Always eat on time

4. Have several smaller meals throughout the day

5. Practice mediation daily

6. Manage stress

Diabetic neuropathy is a problematic condition of diabetes that affects the nerves. In this condition, continuous excess blood sugar levels caused due to diabetes for a longer period of time damages the nerves. People with diabetes can develop diabetes neuropathy over a period of time, but longer the person has diabetes (more than 20 to 25 years) greater the risk. Incidences are more common in patients with poor control, overweight, have higher levels of blood cholestrol and blood pressure, and are over the age of 40. Though the condition can affect any nerve in the body, the most common type of diabetes neuropathy is the peripheral neuropathy, affecting the arms and legs.

Factors that Cause Diabetic Neuropathy according to Ayurveda

When the delicate fibres of the nerve are exposed to high blood sugar levels for a longer time then these fibres gets damaged and causes diabetic neuropathy. Also below given factors act as a trigger to Diabetic Neuropathy –

• Genetic factors can be also a possible reason behind occurrence of this ailment.
• Smoking and alcohol consumption also leads to damage of nerves.

Symptoms of Diabetic Neuropathy according to Ayurveda
The symptoms of diabetic neuropathy will depend entirely on the form of neuropathy present, and which nerves are being affected.

1. Numbness
2. Burning or tingling sensation
3. Pain and cramps
4. Weak muscles
5. Enhanced sensitivity to touch
6. Muscles becomes weak
7. Weakness of the limbs
8. Lack of coordination and balance among body parts

Management of Diabetic Neuropathy through Ayurveda

Ayurveda considers diabetic neuropathy to be the result of malfunctioning of Vata and kapha doshas. The Ayurvedic treatment for diabetic neuropathy revolves around restoring the dosha balance, managing the symptoms and preventing them from getting worse by keeping the blood sugar levels under check. Treatment for diabetic neuropathy generally depends on the type of symptoms and the type of neuropathy.

In general, treatment focuses on reducing current symptoms and preventing the condition from getting worse by keeping blood sugar level within a narrow target range. With internal medications, effective external therapies like Abhyangam,karaskara Ksheeradhara, Dhanyamladhara, Pizhichil, Njavarakizhi and Thakradhara are recommended for Diabetic Neuropathy condition.

Diabetic retinopathy is a condition that implies damage to the retina caused by complications of diabetes that can eventually lead to blindness.Some patients with long history of uncontrolled diabetes may suffer from diabetic retinopathy sooner or later. In this condition the blood vessels around the retina of the eye will get damaged due to the high sugar levels in the body leading to difficulty in vision and in worst cases loss of eye sight permanently. Almost 90% of the diabetic retinopathy cases can be avoided if a diabetic patient is able to detect it and start treatment in the early stages of the condition itself. The longer a person has unmanaged diabetes, the higher his or her chances of developing diabetic retinopathy.
Types
There are two stages of retinopathy –
1. Non Proliferative retinopathy – In this type, the blood vessels in the eye become larger in certain spots (called micro aneurysms). Chances are there that the blood vessels may also get blocked. There also may be small amounts of bleeding (retinal haemorrhages), and fluid may leak into the retina. This can lead to noticeable problems with your vision.
2. Proliferative retinopathy – This condition is more advanced and severe. New blood vessels that are fragile will start to grow in the eyes. Being delicate, there are chances that the blood vessels can bleed (haemorrhage). Small scars would develop, both on the retina and in other parts of the eye eventually leading to a vision loss and other severe problems.
Factors that cause Diabetic Retinopathy according to Ayurveda
Diabetic retinopathy is caused due to prolonged high blood glucose levels. Over time, this causes damage to the small blood vessels within the retina which may then lead to haemorrhages, exudates and even swelling of the retina; this then starves the retina of oxygen, and may trigger the growth of abnormal vessels. Also, there are other below cited factors that act as a base to the condition –
1. Hereditary factor
2. Body constitution – Dosha Prakrithi
3. Stress and strain
4. Dietary and other habitual factors

Symptoms of Diabetic Retinopathy
1. Blurred vision and gradual vision loss
2. Floaters or spots in your vision
3. Partial, total loss of vision or a shadow across your field of vision
4. Pain, pressure, or constant redness of the eye
5. Difficulty seeing in the night time
6. Photophobia

Management of Diabetic Retinopathy through Ayurveda
By Proper Ayurvedic management and practices, we can prevent the onset of Diabetic Retinopathy in diabetic patients. Controlling Diabetes is the first line of treatment in Diabetic Retinopathy.
Initially, detoxification of the body is recommended so as to clear the channels and stop the perfusion. Along with this steps should be taken to control the level of diabetes. After this, appropriate treatments for preventing/stopping the congestion or haemorrhage in retinal blood vessels and for the degeneration of the retinal nerves has to be done.

Ayurvedic treatments such as Thalam, Thalapothichil, Putapakam, Anjanam, Thakradhara, Nethradhara are generally advised by the Ayurvedic doctor depending upon the condition of the patient. Also, Panchakarma Ayurvedic therapies play a vital role in the treatment of Diabetic Retinopathy. The main aim of the treatment is to clear the passage of blood vessels in the most macro levels and improve the blood circulation on the Retina.
According to Ayurveda, channelling the treatments in a systematic way can control diabetic retinopathy to a great extent and can lead to incredible improvement in the vision.
Ayurveda also recommends, regular check-up of the eyes – Every person suffering from diabetes must get his or her eyes examined through an eye specialist at least once in a year even if he doesn’t have any symptoms.

To mark World Food Day, Krishnendu Ayurveda recommends some of the world’s most nutritious foods and health benefits they provide. From cancer-fighting antioxidants, anti-inflammatory components to heart-healthy fats, these foods if added to your daily diet help you stay healthy, hearty and fit.

1. Spinach

One of the healthiest foods on the planet, spinach is rich in vitamins, minerals and antioxidants, including folate, vitamin A, iron, potassium, calcium, zinc, and selenium. Spinach also contains flavonoids that may help protect your body from free radicals, while offering anti-inflammatory benefits and antioxidant support.
2. Beetroot
Beets are high in immune-boosting vitamin C, fiber, and essential minerals like potassium (essential for healthy nerve and muscle function) and manganese (which is good for your bones, liver, kidneys, and pancreas). Beets also contain the B vitamin folate, which helps reduce the risk of birth defects.
3. Pomegranate
Pomegranate’s antioxidant activity is known to inhibit cell proliferation and invasion, and promote apoptosis (cell death) in various cancer cells. The antioxidants in pomegranates may also help reduce inflammation that contributes to the destruction of cartilage in your joints, a key reason for the pain and stiffness felt by many osteoarthritis sufferers.
4. Blueberries
Blueberries exert positive effects upon your lipid profile, reducing your risk for type 2 diabetes. And because of their bountiful antioxidants, blueberries are one of the best fruits to protect you from premature aging. Blueberries have also been shown to alleviate inflammatory intestinal conditions, such as ulcerative colitis.
6. Avocado
Avocado is considered as one of the healthiest foods as it is loaded with healthy fats. It contains monounsaturated oleic acid that is also present in olive oil along with other important nutrients like fibre and potassium.
The fats in Avocado encourages nutrient uptake from the vegetables up to 15-folds. Eating just one or two avocados a week gives you all the benefit of healthy monounsaturated fats, Vitamin B6 and loads of folate.
7. Lemons
Often touted as the world’s healthiest food, lemons have strong anti-inflammatory qualities and can help to inhibit the growth of cancer cells. They also have just as much Vitamin C as oranges.
8. Garlic
This pungent bulb has been used to ward off disease for centuries, as it inhibits the growth of bacteria, lowers cholesterol and blood pressure and has some serious anti-inflammatory power.
9. Apples

Apples are a good source of soluble fiber, which can lower blood cholesterol and glucose levels. Fresh apples are also a good source of vitamin C — an antioxidant that protects your body’s cells from damage. Vitamin C also helps form the connective tissue collagen, keeps your capillaries and other blood vessels healthy, and aids in the absorption of iron.

10. Broccoli

Besides being a good source of folate, broccoli also contains phytonutrients. Broccoli is also an excellent source of vitamin C — an antioxidant that protects your body’s cells from damage. It is also an excellent source of vitamin A and is linked to preserving eye health.

11. Beans
Eating a serving of legumes (beans, peas and lentils) four times a week can lower your risk of heart disease by 22 per cent. That same habit may also reduce your risk of breast cancer.

Cervical spondylosis or neck arthritis, is a common degenerative condition of the cervical spine that is most likely caused by age-related changes in the inter-vertebral discs. While it’s largely due to age, it can be caused by other factors as well. The pain is often found to radiate from the neck to one of the hands either right or left; and sometimes can be in both the hands.

Ayurvedic Understanding of Cervical Spondylosis

According to Ayurveda, Cervical Spondylosis is described as ‘Greeva graham’, a condition that is caused due to the vitiated ‘Vata’ dosha. Increase in Vata leads to depletion of body tissues, for an instance, with ageing Vata increases and body tissues start degenerating. The dryness and degeneration caused by Vata leads to decrease of Kapha Dosha that is responsible for cushioning in between bone joints. Thus, disc degeneration transpires which eventually leads to spondylosis.

Factors that cause Cervical Spondylosis according to Ayurveda

• Age – Cervical spondylosis is a normal part of ageing.
• Sedentary Lifestyle (Improper diet and no physical activity)
• Bad food habits
• Occupation – Having a job that requires heavy lifting or a lot of bending and twisting.
• Recent Neck Injuries or Surgery
• Genetic Factors – Family history of Spondylosis.
• Being Overweight

Symptoms of Cervical Spondylosis according to Ayurveda

• Neck stiffness that gets worse over time
• Tingling, numbness and weakness in your shoulders, arms, hands etc.
• Pain during neck movements
• Difficulty in writing, holding objects etc.
• Muscle weakness
• Difficulty in walking, lack of co-ordination

Management of Cervical Spondylosis through Ayurveda

The Ayurvedic approach to the treatment of Cervical Spondylosis includes Ayurveda Vata pacifying herbs, Ayurveda recommended diet, lifestyle modifications, Ayurvedic therapies, stress management, yoga asanas and medications that help the body get back to state of balance and harmony.

Ayurveda Panchakarma therapies like Abhyanga swedam, Elakizhi, Nasyam, Shirovasti or shirodhara, Sarvangadhara, Greeva basti, Navara kizhi etc. are generally advised depending upon the condition of the patient and severity of the disease. Pizhichil (medicated oil bath) is administered to relieve pain, inflammation of muscles and ligaments and to improve flexibility of neck bone joints.

Home Remedies to Manage Cervical Spondylosis according to Ayurveda

Because of the strong anti-inflammatory properties, the below mentioned herbs and superfoods can act as the best medicines to manage the Cervical Spondylosis condition.

1. Castor Oil

Take one tablespoon of castor oil before going to bed, once or twice a week. This helps cleansing ama (toxins) and balancing vata.

2. Garlic

Eat a couple of raw garlic buds on an empty stomach each morning with water or you can heat 2 to 3 crushed garlic cloves in a pan with some vegetable oil. Allow it to cool, then use it to massage the painful area for 5 to 10 minutes. Follow this with a warm bath. Do this 2 times daily.

3. Turmeric

Mix 1 teaspoon of turmeric powder in a glass of milk. Heat it on low heat for 5 minutes. Allow it to cool, then add a little honey. Drink it 2 times daily.

4. Sesame Seeds

Apply some warm sesame oil on the affected area and massage for 10 minutes. Then apply a hot compress on the area. Do this 3 or 4 times daily.

5. Ginger

Drink ginger tea 3 times a day. To make the tea, boil 1 tablespoon of thinly sliced ginger in 2 cups of water for 10 minutes. Strain, add honey and drink it.

6. Cayenne Pepper

Mix together 1 teaspoon of cayenne pepper powder and 2 tablespoons of lukewarm olive oil. Apply it on the affected area. Cover it with a cloth and leave it on for a few hours or overnight. Do this daily.

7. Exercise

One of the major causes of cervical spondylosis is lack of regular exercise. Therefore, you can reduce pain and stiffness around your neck and shoulders by incorporating regular physical exercise into your lifestyle.

• Rotate your head in both clockwise and counter-clockwise directions, and nod the neck side to side from one shoulder to the other. Do this for 10 minutes 2 or 3 times daily. This will help the pain in your neck from getting severe.

 

To lower cholesterol levels naturally, Ayurveda recommends regular yoga & exercise, a strict dietary routine avoiding all the cholesterol triggering foods and intake of more cholesterol lowering foods that would balance the overall fat metabolism of the body. Here are some superfoods recommended by Ayurveda that are great for lowering your cholesterol levels –

1. Oatmeal

Considered the king of all breakfasts, Oatmeal contains soluble fiber & cholesterol lowering components which reduces the low-density lipoprotein (LDL), the “bad,” cholesterol. According to studies, Switching up your breakfast to contain two servings of oats can lower LDL (“bad”) cholesterol by an estimate 5.3% in only 6 weeks.

2. Beans

Beans are one of the most effective cholesterol lowering foods. Same as oats, chickpeas, lentils, soybeans and kidney beans are high in soluble fiber that prevent cholesterol from being absorbed into the body. Regular intake of a veg soup containing ½ cup of beans can help lowering total cholesterol levels, including LDL, by up to 8%.

3. Nuts

All nuts are rich in vegetable protein, fibre, heart healthy unsaturated fats, vitamin E, magnesium, potassium, natural plant sterols and a host of beneficial plant nutrients. These superfoods are also rich in polyunsaturated fatty acids which makes them perfect as a cholesterol lowering food. According to studies, a recommended 30-35g a day of nuts (a handful) has the potential to lower cholesterol by an average of 5%.

4. Fish 

Eating fish can be heart healthy because of its high levels of omega-3 fatty acids, which can reduce blood pressure and risk of developing blood clots. Fish when taken as grilled or baked and also in preparations avoiding unhealthy fats works as a great cholesterol lowering food.

5. Fenugreek seeds

Fenugreek seeds are a rich source of steroidal saponins that help reduce the body’s absorption of cholesterol coming in through the fat-rich foods we eat. This, along with the fibre present in the fenugreek seeds makes it a valuable weapon in the fight against high levels of cholesterol and triglycerides.

 

6. Coriander

Ayurveda superfood, Coriander seeds when taken fresh every day with some water are known to reduce cholesterol levels in the body. They also act as a detoxifying agent, which help the kidneys to remove toxic substances from the body. One can take a tablespoon of fresh coriander seeds, grind them, add them to one cup of warm water and take them in the morning every day. This is a great way to treat high levels of HDL cholesterol in the body.

7. Garlic

According to studies, Garlic, contains a component called allicin which has shown to lower total cholesterol, LDL cholesterol and triglycerides. A recommended 900mg of raw garlic a day if taken regularly can lower cholesterol levels by 9-12%. It can also be taken in the form of raw cloves one or two a day.