Ayurveda is an alternative healing system, that is the oldest and has originated from the Indian Subcontinent. Ayurveda is a holistic healing procedure that has a solution for most diseases or health symptoms but through nature’s way.
Ayurvedic researchers have spent years studying nature and bringing out the best in nature for healing purposes. Ayurvedic medicines are typically herbs or herbal compositions that date back some thousands of years. Of late, the world has embraced Ayurveda more than ever for its holistic healing procedures.
In this post, we will try to look into the Ayurvedic treatment for back-pain and constipation, two very popular contemporary health issues. Lifestyle changes and stress have given rise to the number of people suffering from back pain and constipation. However, opting for the Ayurvedic treatment for the same can ensure greater relief without having to deal with adverse side effects, unlike other medications.
How to treat back pain with Ayurveda?
Wrong sitting posture, sitting for long hours before computers, unhealthy lifestyle, etc, promotes back pain. The contemporary corporate working conditions have only aggravated back pain condition in most people.
Suffering from back pain and the discomfort that it brings, people try to look for a variety of solutions, like shifting to orthopaedic mattresses, wearing orthopaedic belts for support, etc. Although all these could bring temporary relief but in the long run, the condition can return in the worst way possible.
However, opting for Ayurvedic treatments can be an effective solution to treat chronic back pain, stiffness, or any similar orthopaedic conditions.
Symptoms of back pain:
The common and most complained about symptoms of back pain include:
- Dull pain in the lower back affects the free movement of individuals and can result in spasms in the pelvic region or hip.
- Tingling, numbness, or sharp sensation in the lower back.
- Pain after long hours of immobility or rest.
These are some of the common symptoms of back pain, however, the intensity and severity of the pain varies from man to man and also depends on the seriousness of the condition.
Ayurvedic treatment for back pain issues:
Ayurveda has a wide range of treatments for back pain that would include certain therapies, massages, or intake of certain ayurvedic compositions. The few therapies that are typically recommended to people complaining about back pain are:
Abhyanga is a warm oil massage done to energize the body cells. When Abhyanga is performed for back pain, then the therapist will concentrate on the massage of the lower back area.
Kati Vasti is a procedure where medicated lukewarm oil will be kept over the lumbosacral area for a specific period. This process strengthens the spinal cord and also relieves pain.
Dhanyamala Dhara is a procedure where a warm herbal liquid is poured on the affected area as part of the treatment.
Pichu is also an effective treatment where a cotton cloth soaked with warm medicated oil is bandaged around the affected area. The oil is frequently replaced for better results.
These are some of the popular Ayurvedic treatment for back-pain, along with certain herbal decoctions, panchakarma therapies and adopting certain lifestyle changes as guided by Ayurveda.
How does Ayurveda help in bringing relief from constipation?
According to Ayurveda, constipation is caused due to an excess of cold and dry elements in the body. Ayurveda recommends the addition of warmth, oils and hydration into the treatment of constipation to bring relief.
There are some laxatives recommended by Ayurveda, the intake of which can help in bringing relief to constipation. These laxatives can be either made into warm soothing teas or can be consumed in the form of tablets.
Ayurveda promotes the intake of laxatives like Triphala, Senna, Himalayan Herbolax, etc. However, one should be highly cautious with the use of these herbs and depend on the Ayurvedic practitioner for doses and duration. Herbs like Senna and Himalayan Herbolax are usually not recommended for children as an overdose can lead to some serious health issues.
In addition to herbs, the Ayurvedic treatment for constipation would also include Ayurvedic Enemas, massage, yoga, and changes in the diet. In Ayurvedic enema, a tube is connected to the rectum and Basti made of herbal blends suspended in ghee or oil is poured into the rectum. After holding the liquid for a few minutes, the liquid can be released into the toilet.
Besides, abdominal massages are also found to help treat constipation, even for people suffering from conditions like Parkinson’s disease, stroke, multiple sclerosis, and also people taking opioid medications.
Ayurvedic Yoga positions like bhujanghasana, trikonasana, vajrasana, sarvangasana, naukasana, shalabhasana, etc are some of the recommended poses.
Ayurveda always preaches the need to make dietary changes for healing or treating any condition. Food is an important part of the ayurvedic treatment method. For constipation, Ayurveda recommends increasing the consumption of fruits, vegetables, and other fibre-rich foods as they promote healthy bathroom habits. In addition to foods, Ayurveda strongly recommends avoiding dehydration which is one of the main causes of constipation.
Wrapping Up
Ayurveda has years of knowledge and research and so is a time-tested solution to many chronic conditions. Just like the Ayurvedic treatment for constipation and back pain, you can also consult an Ayurvedic practitioner for any such conditions that you are looking for relief from.
