The ancient Indian health-care system of Ayurveda encourages wellness by promoting balance between the physical and energetic systems of the body. Although Ayurvedic methods should not be used as a substitute for a medical doctor's diagnosis, they can be quite helpful in addressing some chronic digestive disorders such as loose stool or diarrhea. If you suffer from unusually loose stools, ask your doctor whether Ayurvedic support might be a safe and appropriate treatment for you.
Ayurveda
The Ayurvedic system describes three main physical and energetic types: vata, pitta and kapha. The vata dosha corresponds to space and air and is characterized by dry skin and hair, a thin frame, spirituality and intellect. Kapha, the dosha of earth and water, is characterized by oily skin, abundant, thick hair, and a calm temperament. Pitta is the dosha of fire and water, and pitta-dominant people put on muscle easily, have dry hair, sensitive skin and fiery temperaments. Ayurvedic practitioners believe that illness arises from imbalances in or among the doshas and work to restore balance with a combination of diet, lifestyle changes and herbal remedies.
Agni and Loose Stools
The Ayurvedic system believes that proper digestion is the foundation of good health. The Sanskrit word "agni" means "fire," and, true to its name, refers to the body's energies of digestion, purification and elimination. Agni is the energy that helps the body's systems extract nourishment from food and turn it into energy, and it is healthiest when all three doshas are in balance. Maintaining active, but not overactive, agni is essential for digestion and immune function. Without balanced agni, undigested food and emotions turn to ama, or toxic buildup, in the intestines, leading to constipation, cramping, indigestion and loose stools.
Agni Balancing Diet and Lifestyle
In Ayurveda, diet and lifestyle changes are part of the treatment for any disorder. Both sluggish and overactive agni can cause loose stools. To treat this condition, choose foods that are simple, warm but not hot, and easily digested. Soups are highly recommended, as are daily drinks of buttermilk, which stimulates agni production and function. Eat small, regular meals and drink room-temperature water with lemon throughout the day. Avoid difficult-to-digest foods like red meat, processed flour and cheeses, and completely eliminate alcohol, caffeine and tobacco from your diet.
Ayurvedic Herbal Treatments for Loose Stools
Ayurvedic herbal preparations help support your dietary and lifestyle adjustments and speed healing. These highly specialized herbs are sometimes available at health food stores, or through an Ayurvedic practitioner. The herbs Jaiphala, Musta, Bilva and Kutaja are recommended for diarrhea, as are the blends Hingvastak Choorna and Trikatu. Triphala is a widely available, mild treatment for all digestive ailments. Since these herbs work in different ways, choosing one depends on the cause of your loose stools. See an Ayurvedic practitioner for a recommendation. Always consult your medical doctor before beginning alternative treatment to make sure it's safe for you.
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