Ayurveda is a system of holistic health care originating in India over 5,000 years ago. Translated from Sanskrit as "knowledge of life," Ayurveda aims to cultivate equilibrium of mind, body and environment through herbal treatments, dietary remedies and lifestyle prescriptions. While the experience of early stage pregnancy differs from woman to woman, morning sickness is one of the most common symptoms and tends to emerge between two and eight weeks after conception. Ayurvedic herbs and dietary treatments can help relieve sensations of nausea.
Ayurveda and Pregnancy
In ayurvedic medicine, each body is composed of a particular combination of elements, known as "doshas." Your dosha determines aspects of your appearance, body type and appetites, and when in balance promotes your health and well-being.The ayurvedic tradition regards pregnancy as a special time for women, in which their internal balance shifts dramatically to support fetal development. While pregnancy and its associated symptoms of tender breasts, changed tastes and morning sickness are viewed as natural, ayurveda offers several remedies to ease nausea and restore equilibrium.
Ayurvedic Herbs
Considered one of the most effective herbs for treating nausea, ginger root calms the stomach and supports intestinal cleansing. If consuming raw ginger is too harsh on your palette, try drinking ginger tea prepared with a bit of honey and lemon juice. The smell of lemon juice is additionally believed to be refreshing and helpful in relieving nausea. Both peppermint and spearmint help control nausea and vomiting. Ayurveda recommends that you either drink mint tea or use a humidifier to release the aroma of mint into the air.
Ayurvedic Diet
Ayurveda lays stress on the need for a balanced diet during pregnancy, as consuming too much or too little of a particular food group can exacerbate morning sickness and other unpleasant sensations. Ayurveda recommends that pregnant women consume small meals at regular intervals throughout the day to continuously support the digestive system. Avoid foods that are excessively spicy or difficult to digest, such as fried or processed foods, as these will further upset your stomach. Both bael juice and curry leaf are also considered highly effective for preventing morning sickness. Pregnancy is commonly a time when women experience cravings for certain foods. Ayurveda suggests that you heed these cravings, as they are an expression of what your body needs and serve to support your health and well-being.
Lifestyle Practices
Morning sickness results from hormonal and chemical changes in your body and can be aggravated by decreases in your blood sugar. When you rise in the morning, consume a simple carbohydrate, such as dry biscuits or crackers, to stave off sensations of nausea. The breath is also a powerful ally in calming the mind and body. Ayurveda suggests taking long, deep breaths to quiet internal agitation, still the mind and relieve nausea.
Caution
While unpleasant, morning sickness is generally not harmful to you or your baby. However, excessive vomiting could be a sign of hyperemesis gravidarum, a condition that can endanger your health due to nutrient and electrolyte loss. If you have persistent difficulty in retaining your food, consult your physician to discuss possible options for treatment.
References
- "Medical Clinics of North America"; Ayurvedic Medicine. Core Concept, Therapeutic Principles, and Current Relevance; D. Chopra et al.; January 2002
- American Pregnancy Association; Morning Sickness; March 2007
- "The Complete Book of Ayurvedic Home Remedies"; Vasant Lad, M.A. Sc.; 1999
