Piles (Haemorrhoids): An Ayurvedic Perspective
Authored by Dr. Sachin Jadhav, Sukhayu Ayurved and Panchakarma Centre, Nasik
Understanding Piles in Ayurveda
In Ayurveda, piles are referred to as Arśas. The condition is classified under Mahagada (major disorders) in Ayurvedic texts, emphasizing its severity and impact on health. According to the classical text Sushruta Samhita, Arśas occur due to an imbalance of the Doshas (Vata, Pitta, and Kapha) and improper functioning of Agni (digestive fire).
संस्कृत श्लोक:
"अर्शो गुदगतं रोगं सार्वदेहिकदोषजम्।
संसर्गात् कारणं व्याधिर्देहदोषान्वितः स्थितम्॥"
(सुश्रुत संहिता, निदान स्थान २/२)
This verse highlights the systemic nature of the disease and its relation to the imbalance of the Doshas.
Causes of Piles in Ayurveda
The primary cause of Arśas is improper dietary and lifestyle habits that disturb the Doshas. Factors include:
- Excessive intake of spicy, oily, or heavy foods.
- Sedentary lifestyle.
- Suppression of natural urges (e.g., defecation).
- Chronic constipation or diarrhea.
संस्कृत श्लोक:
"कृच्छेण विष्ठा प्रवर्तते तृष्णा दाहः श्रमोऽनिले।
मन्दाग्निः कफवृद्धश्च श्लेष्मपाकविनिर्मितम्॥"
(चरक संहिता, चिकित्सा स्थान १४/८)
This verse explains how poor digestion and aggravated Kapha and Vata lead to the manifestation of Arśas.
Types of Piles in Ayurveda
Ayurvedic texts classify piles into six types based on the predominance of Doshas and other factors:
- Vataja Arśas: Dry and painful, with blackish discoloration.
- Pittaja Arśas: Inflamed, reddish, and prone to bleeding.
- Kaphaja Arśas: Soft, whitish, and less painful.
- Raktaja Arśas: Caused by vitiation of Rakta Dhatu, characterized by profuse bleeding.
- Sannipataja Arśas: A combination of all three Doshas, presenting mixed symptoms.
- Sahaja Arśas: Congenital piles.
Ayurvedic Treatment of Piles
1. Internal Medication (Shamana Chikitsa):
Medications are used to balance the Doshas, regulate Agni, and relieve symptoms:
- Triphala Churna: A mild laxative that prevents constipation.
- Arshoghni Vati: Reduces swelling and bleeding.
- Kutaja (Holarrhena antidysenterica): Helps manage diarrhea and bleeding piles.
संस्कृत श्लोक:
"हरीतक्यादियुक्तो लेहम् पित्ताश्रयं अर्शसि योगः।
दारुहरिद्राचूर्णेन कफजे स्निग्धविरेचनम्॥"
(चरक संहिता, चिकित्सा स्थान १४/१५)
2. Surgical Interventions (Shastra Chikitsa):
For advanced cases, Ayurveda offers effective surgical procedures:
- Kshara Sutra: A medicated thread used to ligate the haemorrhoidal mass.
- Agni Karma: Cauterization to manage bleeding and shrink piles.
संस्कृत श्लोक:
"छेदनं बन्धनं वातं क्षाराग्निकर्मेण शोधनम्।
रुजं स्थानं शमयति शल्यं निघ्नति कामिनीम्॥"
(सुश्रुत संहिता, चिकित्सा स्थान ६/११)
3. Panchakarma Therapy:
Detoxification therapies such as Basti (medicated enemas) help regulate Vata and clear the bowel.
Lifestyle and Dietary Recommendations
Ayurveda places significant emphasis on lifestyle modifications to prevent recurrence:
- Diet: High-fiber foods, adequate hydration, and avoiding spicy or fried foods.
- Exercise: Regular moderate physical activity to improve digestion and circulation.
- Daily Routine: Establishing a consistent bowel routine.
संस्कृत श्लोक:
"मितं हितं लघु भोजनं शीतं स्निग्धं च अन्नं सेवेत।
विमलं तृष्णापानं सुखं जग्ध्यागतं भवति॥"
(चरक संहिता, सूत्र स्थान ५/१५)
Conclusion
At Sukhayu Ayurved and Panchakarma Centre, Nasik, we integrate the timeless wisdom of Ayurveda with modern techniques to provide personalized treatment plans for piles. Our approach ensures not only symptom management but also the prevention of recurrence. Through therapies like Kshara Sutra, Panchakarma, and dietary guidance, we aim to restore balance and improve the quality of life for our patients.
For consultation or more information, visit Sukhayu Ayurved and Panchakarma Centre, Nasik, or contact us at [your contact details].
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