Treating Ulcers with Ayurveda

Treating Ulcers with Ayurveda

When we hear the word “ulcer”, normally we’re reminded of those irritable, oval-shaped sores which grow around the mouth. The fact is, however, that ulcers can range from small facial nuisances to breaks in stomach tissue, which could potentially lead to other life-threatening conditions. At Ayurvedic Wellness Centre, we take a natural, holistic approach to curing all ailments, and ulcers are no exception. In this article, we’ll discuss the various signs and symptoms of both stomach and mouth ulcers. We’ll also explain the Ayurvedic approach to managing this affliction.

Stomach pain can be caused by ulcers but can be treated with Ayurveda

Stomach pain can be caused by ulcers but can be treated with Ayurveda

Mouth Ulcers

Tingling sensations, difficulty swallowing food, having to cancel dates…many of us know the effects of having an ulcer all too well, but the causes of these pesky sores are not so easy to pin down. Mental stress, tissue injuries, deficiency of Vitamin B 12, zinc, folic acid or iron and having a weak immune system often lead to contracting one of those nasty mouth sores. Further to this, Ayurvedic medicine identifies that an ulcer of the mouth, or Mukhapaka, may be caused by an intake of foods which aggravate the Pitta balance in our bodies. These foods include ginger, chilli, long pepper and black pepper. Similarly, if your body type is Pitta, you are more prone to contracting this affliction, so try your best to avoid the aforementioned foods.   Using an umbrella when going outside, refraining from skipping meals and regularly having light amounts of sweet foods may also help to reduce your chances of contracting these sores. In addition, our Ayurvedic doctors are able to prescribe herbal remedies and other treatments to help you manage the perils associated with this ailment. As Ayurvedic medicine is customised to each individual’s nuanced body type, booking a consultation with a doctor is essential. In this way, you’ll be able to find out the most effective prescription for your specific needs.

Stomach Ulcers

Sometimes referred to as gastric ulcers, this variety of ulcer is caused by breaks in the tissue found in the stomach lining.  The causes of these breaks are diverse and many. Stress and the presence of Helicobacter pylori are thought to be two of the most common causes of these dangerous stomach sores.  Whilst not all stomach ulcers announce themselves in the form of symptoms, some may lead to:

  • Abdominal pain just below the ribcage
  • Indigestion
  • Nausea
  • Excess vomiting and blood present in vomit
  • Weight loss
  • Shock
  • Loss of appetite

At Ayurvedic Wellness Centre, we believe that, often times, stress and stomach ulcers go hand in hand. Our practitioners are trained in a number of massage therapies which help to relieve the stress associated with these stomach sores. We recommend our Abhyanga and Shiro-Abhyanga treatments for maximum stress relief.

Studies show that Western medications are responsible for around 40% of all stomach ulcers. If you regularly consume aspirin, clopidogrel, naproxen or ibuprofen, you may be at risk of developing stomach ulcers. In this case, please consult one of our Ayurvedic doctors for advice about alternatives to these medications.  Regardless of the cause, treating stomach ulcers is essential, as the excess bleeding of these ulcers may lead to other serious illnesses.

 

For further information about any of the treatments or conditions discussed in this article, or to make a booking with one of our Ayurvedic consultants, please call us on (02) 9389 2581.