Hyperacidity - How Can Ayurveda Get Rid Of It?
Digestion is an important process that helps in converting food to energy. It begins at the mouth and the stomach is where the detailed process begins. The stomach produces acids to digest the food. But when food is not consumed at the right time or if it is too spicy, it can lead to acid reflux. Acid reflux may result because of individual habits too such as excessive smoking and alcohol consumption. In this condition. the valve that controls the release of acids does not close properly. This causes the acid to move up and cause pain in the upper abdominal region. Acid reflux or hyperacidity initially starts with a burning sensation and gradually manifests itself as severe pain that is intolerable. Ayurveda, the ancient medical science of India, suggests a number of efficient solutions for this condition.
Triphala: This is a combination of three ingredients – the Indian gooseberry, ink nut, and beleric – in equal proportion. These three ingredients ensure a balance of the three doshas – pitta, vatta, and kapha. Ayurveda says that any imbalance in three doshas can cause diseases and disorders in the body. Therefore, consuming triphala in the form of powder or pills every day helps balance the three doshas. You can take half to one teaspoon on to triphala with warm water on an empty stomach in the morning and as you go to bed at night.
Indian gooseberry: This is an Indian fruit that is loaded with antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties. It helps in reducing pitta, which is fiery in nature as per Ayurveda and is characterized by excessive heat. Elevated pitta is responsible for acid reflux. Taking gooseberry is easy, as it can be eaten raw or taken in the form of juice. It can also be included in a few recipes.
Other remedies: Lots of other home remedies come handy in alleviating pain related to hyperacidity. One of them is Aloe Vera. Aloe Vera juice soothes the pain and cools down the system. Additionally, buttermilk offers an instant remedy to ensure that the pain and burning sensation are relieved.
Restrictions that Ayurveda suggests: It is not only what you consume to treat the disease that matters. A few foods should be avoided to ensure a complete cure. While people know that spicy foods should be kept at bay, tea, coffee, vinegar, tamarind and other sour foods should be avoided as well. Peanuts are very acidic and can trigger acid reflux.
Lifestyle changes recommended by Ayurveda: Quitting smoking and stopping consumption of alcohol is what all streams of medicine recommend. Ayurveda also advises people to follow early to bed and early to rise principle. This ensures that the body performs all its duties within hours of its optimum functioning. Lying down after a meal is not advised. Also, wearing tight clothes should be avoided. Foods that are oily and fatty should be avoided. Eating freshly-prepared food items is considered as good as per Ayurveda.
Stay relaxed: Hyper acidity may also result because of stress and tension. The best way to combat stress is to stay cool and calm. Practising yoga can help relieve hyperacidity and also alleviate pain caused by it.
Pranayama, peacock pose, and shoulder pose are recommended to combat hyperacidity. As per Ayurveda, sticking to healthy eating habits is the one-stop solution for several ailments and hyperacidity is no different. Sleeping for at least 7 to 8 hours in a silent and soothing environment is also advised by this system of the ancient medicine to lead a happy and healthy life.