Cystitis is a form of chronic inflammation marked by pelvic or bladder pain and a frequent urge to urinate. Unlike Western medicine, which emphasizes the diagnosis and treatment of the symptoms of cystitis, Ayurvedic practitioners believe diseases, such as cystitis, result from an imbalance in the body's energy systems, or the physical, emotional and mental characteristics known as doshas.
Diagnosis
Following an in depth physical examination, an Ayurvedic physician will look for nutritional and environmental factors that contribute to the inflammatory condition. An imbalance in the Vata dosha, the energies of movement, can manifest as inflammation of the urinary tract, and cause frequent urination and pelvic pain. An aggravated pitta dosha is associated with the burning sensation that accompanies urination.
Treatment and Recommendations
A comprehensive Ayurvedic treatment protocol for cystitis will likely include a cleansing of the digestive tract, dietary modifications, stress reduction techniques and herbal remedies. Sour and spicy foods aggravate the Pitta dosha, and over time can cause an acidic environment that places stress on the kidneys and bladder. Cooling spices, such as coriander, basil, fresh ginger and turmeric may be prescribed in combination or alone, to moderate a Pitta energy imbalance.
Significance
Originally a Hindu medical system, Ayurvedic medicine shares roots with Yoga and Traditional Chinese Medicine traditions. Although Western evidence-based research on Ayurvedic remedies is limited, Ayurvedic medicine is the world's oldest health system and remains the primary medical system in India. Increasingly, Western medicine is considering the relationship between stress, diet and environment and the development of inflammatory disease.
Warnings
Because the United States lacks a common standard for the training and certification of Ayurvedic physicians, it is the responsibility of the patient to assess the credentials of their practitioner, according to the National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine. Although Ayurvedic herbs are generally safe if purchased from reputable retailers, they can interact with prescription drugs. If you are under the care of a medical doctor and an Ayurvedic physician, it is important to provide each of them with a complete record of your diagnosis and treatment protocols.
References
- Mayo Clinic: Interstitial Cystitis
- University of Maryland Medical Center; Ayurveda; Stephen Ehrlich; September 2009
- The National Institute of Ayurvedic Medicine: Definition of Ayurveda
- ICD.com: About Ayurveda
- ICD.com: Diet For Interstitial Cystitis
- National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine: Ayurvedic Medicine: An Introduction
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