Ayurvedic Treatment for Rheumatoid Arthritis
Are you suffering from Chronic Inflammatory Disorder?
Rheumatoid Arthritis
Rheumatoid Arthritis (known As Amavata In Ayurveda) Is An Autoimmune Disease That Causes Chronic Inflammation Of The Joints. It Can Also Cause Inflammation Of The Tissue Around The Joints, As Well As In Other Organs In The Body. Autoimmune Diseases Are Illnesses That Occur When The Body’s Tissues Are Mistakenly Attacked By Their Own Immune System. Patients With Autoimmune Diseases Have Antibodies In Their Blood That Target Their Own Body Tissues, Where They Can Be Associated With Inflammation. Because It Can Affect Multiple Other Organs Of The Body, Rheumatoid Arthritis Is Referred To As A Systemic Illness And Is Sometimes Called Rheumatoid Disease.
Find the root of Rheumatoid Arthritis
Fill the form to book your appointment to get relief from Rheumatoid Arthritis- Your Data is Safe with Us
Causes, Symptoms, Diet and Lifestyle Tips for Rheumatoid Arthritis
Understand your Disease Well
Causes of Rheumatoid Arthritis
The exact cause of Rheumatoid Arthritis is unknown, but it is believed to be due to a combination of genetic, environmental, and immune system factors.
1. Genetics:
A family history of RA can increase the likelihood of developing the condition. Specific genes, especially those related to immune system function, have been identified as risk factors.
2. Immune System Dysfunction:
RA is an autoimmune disorder, meaning the immune system attacks the body’s own tissues, particularly the synovium (joint lining). This leads to inflammation, joint damage, and deformities.
3. Environmental Triggers:
Infections (such as bacterial or viral) are thought to play a role in triggering RA, especially in genetically susceptible individuals.
Smoking is a major environmental factor that significantly increases the risk of developing RA.
Air pollution and exposure to certain chemicals may also contribute to the development of RA.
4. Hormonal Factors:
Gender: Women are more likely than men to develop RA, suggesting that hormonal differences may play a role. The condition often develops in women during their reproductive years, particularly between the ages of 30 and 60.
Pregnancy and Postpartum: Hormonal changes during pregnancy may affect the severity of RA symptoms.
5. Age:
RA can develop at any age, but it is more common in individuals aged 40-60 years.
Symptoms of Rheumatoid Arthritis
RA affects the joints symmetrically, meaning both sides of the body are typically involved. The symptoms can vary in intensity and may fluctuate over time.
1. Joint Symptoms:
-
Pain: Joint pain, often in the hands, wrists, knees, and feet.
-
Swelling: Inflammation in the affected joints, making them swollen, red, and tender.
-
Stiffness: Especially in the morning or after long periods of inactivity, joint stiffness is a common complaint.
-
Deformities: Over time, untreated RA can lead to joint damage and deformities, including bunions, hammer toes, or ulnar deviation (fingers turning outward).
-
Limited range of motion: Due to inflammation and joint damage, RA can result in decreased flexibility and range of motion.
2. Systemic Symptoms:
-
Fatigue: Feeling unusually tired or run down, even after rest, is a common systemic symptom of RA.
-
Fever: A low-grade fever may accompany joint inflammation.
-
Loss of appetite: Reduced appetite and subsequent weight loss may be observed.
-
Nodules: In some cases, rheumatoid nodules (firm lumps) may develop near joints or pressure points like elbows.
3. Other Affected Areas:
-
Lungs: RA can lead to lung inflammation and scarring, which may cause shortness of breath or a persistent cough.
-
Eyes: Inflammation in the eyes, leading to dryness, pain, or redness (scleritis or episcleritis).
-
Heart: Increased risk of heart disease due to systemic inflammation.
-
Blood vessels: Chronic inflammation can damage blood vessels, leading to vasculitis (inflammation of blood vessels).
Diet for Rheumatoid Arthritis
The right diet plays a crucial role in managing RA symptoms, reducing inflammation, and supporting joint health. A well-balanced diet rich in anti-inflammatory foods can help alleviate symptoms and improve overall health.
1. Anti-inflammatory Foods:
Fatty Fish: Rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which are potent anti-inflammatory agents. Include salmon, mackerel, sardines, and anchovies in your diet to reduce inflammation in the joints.
Nuts and Seeds: Almonds, walnuts, flaxseeds, and chia seeds provide healthy fats that reduce inflammation.
Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil contains oleocanthal, a compound that has anti-inflammatory properties similar to ibuprofen. Use olive oil in cooking or as a dressing.
Fruits and Vegetables:
High in antioxidants, fruits and vegetables help fight free radicals and reduce inflammation. Focus on leafy greens (like spinach, kale), broccoli, cauliflower, and berries (blueberries, strawberries) for their high antioxidant content.
Citrus fruits (oranges, lemons), tomatoes, and bell peppers are rich in Vitamin C, essential for collagen production and joint health.
2. Spices:
Turmeric: Contains curcumin, a potent anti-inflammatory compound that can help reduce RA symptoms. Include turmeric in your diet by adding it to curries, smoothies, or drinking turmeric tea.
Ginger: Known for its anti-inflammatory effects, ginger can help reduce pain and stiffness. You can consume fresh ginger in teas or add it to meals.
3. Whole Grains:
Brown rice, quinoa, barley, and oats are excellent sources of fiber and help lower inflammation. Avoid refined grains like white bread or pasta, as they may worsen inflammation.
4. Legumes and Plant-Based Proteins:
Include lentils, chickpeas, black beans, and other legumes in your diet for their high protein and fiber content, which helps reduce inflammation and supports joint health.
5. Foods Rich in Calcium and Vitamin D:
Calcium and Vitamin D are essential for bone health, especially in people with RA who may have an increased risk of osteoporosis. Include dairy products, fortified plant milks, tofu, and leafy greens to support bone strength.
6. Hydration:
Staying hydrated is crucial for overall health and joint lubrication. Drink plenty of water, herbal teas, and anti-inflammatory drinks like green tea.
Multiple Consultation Options
Getting Relief from Rheumatoid Arthritis with your Ease
Approach for Rheumatoid Arthritis
PDR - Our Treatment Strategy
Prevention
Prevention involves a balanced diet rich in anti-inflammatory foods (like omega-3s, turmeric, ginger), regular exercise, adequate sleep, and stress management through yoga and pranayama. Herbs such as Ashwagandha, Boswellia, Ginger, and Turmeric play a vital role in preventing and managing RA.
Detoxification
Detoxification through Panchakarma therapies, herbal detox, Triphala, Neem, and fasting helps eliminate toxins, improve digestion, and reduce inflammation in the joints.
Revival
Revival focuses on joint rejuvenation using herbs like Ashwagandha, Boswellia, and Turmeric, along with a nourishing diet, including bone broth, golden milk, and ghee. Incorporating yoga and pranayama supports the healing process, reduces stress, and increases mobility.
Treatments and Panchakarma
How Treatments Benefited in Disease
Deepana–Pachana (Appetizer–Digestive Herbs):
- Before Panchakarma, to digest Ama using herbs like Trikatu, Panchakola, Shunthi.
- Prepares the body by stimulating digestive fire (Agni) and reducing toxins.
Snehapana (Internal Oleation):
- Medicated ghee like Tiktaka Ghrita or Mahatikta Ghrita after Ama is reduced.
- Lubricates joints and body channels; prepares for Virechana
Virechana (Purgation Therapy):
- With Trivrit lehya, Avipattikar churna, or Gandharva Haritaki.
- Eliminates excess Pitta and Ama from the intestines; reduces inflammation
Basti (Medicated Enema) – Most Effective Therapy:
- Kashaya Basti (decoction-based) alternated with Anuvasana Basti (oil-based) in Kaal Basti schedule (16 days).
- Balances Vata, detoxifies colon, reduces pain, swelling, and stiffness in joints
Swedana (Sudation/Fomentation):
- Nadi Sweda or Valuka Sweda (sand bolus) after Ama reduction.
- Relieves stiffness and promotes flexibility without aggravating Ama
Localized Therapies (as needed):
- Lepa (herbal paste)
- Janu Basti / Kati Basti for specific joint relief
Herbal Formulations Commonly Used:
- Simhanada Guggulu
- Kaishora Guggulu
- Rasnapanchaka Kwath
- Amavatari Ras
- Mahayograj Guggulu
