Rheumatoid Arthritis Pain? Try These Ayurvedic Therapies

Introduction

Rheumatoid Arthritis is a long-lasting autoimmune disease that affects many people around the world. There is currently no cure for it. While traditional medicine offers various treatments like medications and surgeries, many individuals look for alternative methods to ease their symptoms and enhance their quality of life. Ayurveda is one such alternative.

Recently, more people have been discovering the benefits of Ayurveda and exploring its treatments for different health issues, including rheumatoid arthritis. In this blog, we will discuss how Ayurveda addresses rheumatoid arthritis and helps with long-term healing.

Understanding Rheumatoid Arthritis in Ayurveda

Amavata is a severe condition that affects the body systemically. In this disorder, harmful elements known as Aama and Vata play a major role. The symptoms of Amavata are similar to those of rheumatoid arthritis and rheumatic fever. In Ayurveda, Amavata is classified under diseases caused by an imbalance of Vata and Kapha. Research has shown that Ayurvedic treatments can effectively help manage Amavata.

Amavata, or rheumatoid arthritis, is caused by issues with digestion, the buildup of waste products, and joint problems. To treat this condition, Ayurveda recommends methods that restore digestion, eliminate waste, manage the body’s air (Vata), and keep the joints healthy. Ayurveda has both preventive and healing strategies, including Panchakarma treatments that aim to remove the underlying causes. This study looks at how effective certain treatments are, such as Langhana (a light diet), Valuka Swedana (heat therapy using heated sand), classical Virechana (cleansing therapy), classical Basti (enema therapy), and oral medications (Shamana Aushadhi) for managing rheumatoid arthritis.

Ayurvedic Therapies for Rheumatoid Arthritis

Panchakarma for Detoxification

Panchakarma is a thorough cleansing treatment in Ayurveda aimed at removing toxins (called Ama) and restoring balance to the body’s energies (doshas). It includes a mix of steps designed to purify, detoxify, and rejuvenate based on each person’s needs.

Virechana (Purgation): This is a gentle process that cleanses the digestive system and removes extra Pitta and toxins. 

Basti (Medicated Enema): This therapy is crucial for managing Vata-related issues. Special herbal oils or herbal mixtures are introduced into the colon to help balance Vata and clear out toxins. Two types of Basti are used: Anuvasana Basti (oil-based) and Niruha Basti (decoction-based), alternating for better results.

Benefits:  

• Helps remove toxins from the body.  
• Reduces inflammation and swelling in the joints.  
• Restores balance to the doshas, particularly Vata.

EXTERNAL TREATMENTS

Swedana: Swedana is done on painful joints. In Amavata, dry sudation (Ruksha Sweda) is suggested, which doesn’t use oil or fat. Sand is recommended for this process. Using oil or fat (Snehana) is not advised in Amavata.

Bodydhara: Bodydhara plays an important role in treating Amavata, especially by calming the Vata dosha, which is mainly responsible for joint pain and stiffness. The warm medicated liquids used in this therapy help break down toxins in the body and improve blood flow to the affected areas, which reduces inflammation and swelling in the joints. Additionally, the steady flow of warm liquids relaxes the muscles and joints, making it easier to move and relieving the stiffness associated with Amavata.

Valuka Sweda: Valuka Sweda is a type of dry heat treatment used in Ayurveda to help with problems caused by toxins and imbalances of the Kapha and Vata energies, like rheumatoid arthritis. Unlike oily heat treatments (called Sneha Sweda), Valuka Sweda does not use oils. It focuses on using dry methods to help with detoxification and to clear blockages.

Abhyanga: Ayurvedic oil massage, is beneficial for managing Amavata, but not during the acute phase with severe symptoms. Once the inflammation subsides, it helps prevent relapses, nourishes tissues and maintains joint flexibility in the recovery phase.

Herbal Poultices (Pinda Sweda): Pinda Sweda is a treatment that uses warm herbal packs applied directly to painful joints. The packs contain herbs like Eranda (castor leaves), Nirgundi (Vitex negundo), and Shunthi (dry ginger), which are known for their ability to reduce inflammation and relieve pain. The heat from the packs helps the body absorb the herbal properties better, which can reduce swelling and improve.

Diet and Lifestyle Changes for Rheumatoid Arthritis Ayurvedic Treatment

 Ayurveda recommends a diet that balances vata for rheumatoid arthritis. These are some of the foods that can be included or avoided in your diet for Rheumatoid Arthritis Management  

Foods to include : 

• Grains that are easy to digest, like cooked oats, rice, and cream of wheat
• legumes, such as lentils, dal, mung beans, miso, and tofu
• lukewarm water, or water boiled with ginger root, to help with digestion and remove toxins
• Include more Green, leafy vegetables, berries
• Spices including ginger, turmeric, and garlic, which are anti-inflammatory and aid with digestion.

 Foods to avoid : 

• Avoid Heating spices, like chilli powder and cayenne pepper
• AvoidHard-to-digest fruits and vegetables, like raw radishes, turnips, onions, apples, broccoli, and Brussels sprouts
• AvoidSour and fermented foods, like hard cheeses, sour cream, green grapes, pineapple, grapefruit, and alcohol
• Avoid Salt in your diet

Recommended Yoga Poses for Rheumatoid Arthritis

Arthritis is a common condition that causes pain, stiffness, and inflammation in the joints. Along with internal medication, incorporating yoga into your routine can provide additional benefits. Gentle yoga poses can help improve flexibility, reduce joint pain, and enhance overall well-being.

Tadasana (Mountain Pose): This pose helps improve posture balance and strengthens the legs without putting excessive strain on the joints.

Child’s Pose (Balasana): Child’s Pose promotes relaxation and gently stretches the hips, thighs, and lower back.

Cat-Cow Stretch (Marjaryasana-Bitilasana): This fluid motion helps to warm up the spine, improve flexibility, and reduce stiffness.

Downward-Facing Dog (Adho Mukha Svanasana): Downward Dog stretches the entire body, including the shoulders, hamstrings, and calves, while also promoting joint mobility.

Seated Forward Bend (Paschimottanasana): This pose stretches the spine, hamstrings, and lower back, providing relief to stiff joints.

Bridge Pose (Setu Bandhasana): Bridge Pose strengthens the core, hips, and thighs, supporting the lower back and alleviating discomfort.

Supine Hand-To-Big-Toe Pose (Supta Padangusthasana): This pose enhances flexibility in the hips, thighs, and hamstrings.

The Dheemahi Approach to RA Therapy

At Dheemahi Ayurvedic Resort, we provide a personalized approach to managing Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA), also known as Amavata. Our treatments focus on the root causes of RA, such as toxin buildup and imbalances in the body. Upon arrival, guests have a detailed consultation with our Ayurvedic doctors to assess their unique needs. We create custom detox plans using Panchakarma therapies, including purgation and medicated enemas. We offer soothing oil massages, herbal poultices, and special diets to reduce inflammation and support digestion. Daily yoga and stress-relief practices are also part of our program. After treatment, guests receive guidance on diet and lifestyle choices to maintain their health, combining traditional Ayurvedic methods with modern diagnostics for sustainable long-term relief.

Lifestyle Tips to Complement Ayurvedic Therapies

Regular Exercise:

Engage in regular physical activity to maintain joint health and flexibility.

Exercise helps strengthen the muscles around the joints, reducing stress on the joints themselves.

Maintain a Healthy Weight:

Maintain a healthy body weight to reduce the load on joints, especially in weight-bearing areas. Obesity is a known risk factor for rheumatoid arthritis, so achieving and maintaining a healthy weight is crucial.

Balanced Diet:

Consume a well-balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins. Consider including foods with anti-inflammatory properties, such as fatty fish (omega-3 fatty acids), nuts, seeds, and colourful vegetables.

Omega-3 Fatty Acids:

Incorporate foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids, such as salmon, flaxseeds, chia seeds, and walnuts, which have anti-inflammatory properties.

Quit Smoking:

Smoking is a significant risk factor for developing rheumatoid arthritis. Quitting smoking can reduce this risk.

Smoking also negatively affects the effectiveness of RA treatments.

Limit Alcohol Consumption:

Excessive alcohol intake may increase the risk of developing RA. If you consume alcohol, do so in moderation.

Regular Health Check-ups:

Early detection and intervention can significantly impact the progression of RA. Regular health check-ups and prompt consultation with a healthcare professional for joint symptoms are essential.

Manage Stress:

Chronic stress may contribute to the development of autoimmune conditions. Incorporate stress management techniques such as yoga, meditation, or relaxation exercises into your routine.

Conclusion

Discover the gentle and effective power of Ayurveda for managing Rheumatoid Arthritis (Amavata). At Dheemahi Ayurvedic Resort, we specialize in holistic, personalised care to address the root causes of RA, helping you achieve long-lasting relief and improved mobility. Our expert Ayurvedic doctors craft tailored therapy plans that combine detoxification, herbal remedies, and lifestyle guidance to restore balance and vitality.

Take the first step towards a pain-free life—contact Dheemahi today for a consultation and to book your personalized therapy plan. Experience authentic healing in a serene retreat setting.

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