Anemia is a medical condition in which there is a deficiency of blood in the body. This deficiency is due to reduced levels of red blood cells known as hemoglobin. This means there is a deficiency of iron content which is essential for the production of hemoglobin in the blood. Anemia can also occur due to Thalassemia patients as it can cause blood disorders.
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In Ayurveda, the ancient holistic health science, anemia is known as Pandu Roga. The disease is caused by the predominance of Paachaka a sub-dosha of Pitta dosha. Paachaka plays a major role in the body’s assimilation of the digested food. When this system fails the iron is not supplied to the blood properly leading to hemoglobin deficiency. When the number of red blood cells in the blood gets reduced, it results in Anemia.
Symptoms of Anemia
According to Ayurvedic texts, the symptoms of Anemia are clearly described. The anemic person loses his natural complexion and appears pale or whitish. Paleness can be noticed in the skin, tongue, eyes, and nails. The person also may be lethargic, exhausted, and flaccid. These signs are typical symptoms of anemia.
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Ayurvedic Treatment of Anemia
Ayurveda suggests purgation therapy for treating pitta disorder. The aim is to get rid of constipation from the body before treating anemia. Usually, Punarnava is the Ayurvedic medicine used in such cases as it has laxative properties and is capable of increasing the amount of blood. Triphala is also prescribed to treat anemic conditions.
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Ayurvedic Herbs Used To Treat Anemia
The Ayurvedic treatment of anemia is on the lines of a holistic approach. The treatment consists of herbal medicines, herbal supplements, diet and lifestyle modifications, Panchakarma for purification of the body, and yoga. The system insists on emotional well-being as part of healthcare.
Ayurveda treatment uses mostly herbal treatments in different forms such as capsules, tablets, powders, oils, pastes, etc. These herbs contain iron and protein that have the ability to augment the production of red blood cells.
- Ghrtitkumari (Aloe Vera)
- Dhatri Lauh
- Lauh Bhasma
- Lohasava
- Punanava
- Navayas Lauh
Other herbs used in the preparation of Ayurvedic medicines are Ash gourd, Celery, Chicory, Fenugreek, Onion, and Wormwood.
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Home Remedies
- A Coldwater bath is found to be beneficial in anemia and so it is recommended twice a day.
- Body massage by trained professionals can flush out the toxins from the body.
- Deep breathing for about ten minutes also helps in increasing the blood quality because of the increased supply of oxygen to the blood cells.
- Light exercise helps to maintain healthy blood circulation and to check lethargy.
- Yoga poses are highly effective in making the body relaxed and improving blood circulation all over the body. Helpful asanas (poses) are Shavasana and Pashchimottanasana.
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Dietary Changes
- Too much intake of acidic, alkaline, or hot and salty food should be avoided as they tend to affect the quality of blood.
- Taking food items with opposing properties must be avoided.
- Consumption of heavy food that is hard to digest should be minimized as it disturbs the absorption of nutrients.
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Lifestyle Changes
According to Ayurvedic principles and disciplined and healthy preventive lifestyle is the way to enjoy good health and long life. The following are suggested for the prevention of anemia:
- Overdoing strenuous exercises and overindulging in sex should be avoided as they can cause anemia.
- Seasonal disturbances and environmental pollution should be avoided.
- Natural urges to pass urine and stool should not be contained.
- Excessive worry, anxiety, fear or grief, and sexual perversion in the mind are related to anemia as the person tens to eat less or overeat under these conditions.