The body's digestive system is responsible for the breakdown of food so that it can be absorbed into the blood stream. Without a properly functioning digestive system, your body may experience uncomfortable side effects such as bloating, gas, constipation, diarrhea or skin problems. Ayurveda, a medical system that originated in India thousands of years ago, uses natural remedies to help with digestive problems. Consult with your doctor before practicing Ayurveda.
Ayurvedic Digestion
In Ayurvedic medicine, "agni" is known as the digestive fire in your body that regulates the body's metabolism. If your agni is functioning properly, food breakdown and absorption will operate smoothly. However, according to Ayurveda, if your body's three energies --- air, water and fire --- are out of balance, the digestive system will be negatively affected. Over time, this imbalance creates a buildup of "ama," a sticky, mucuslike substance that clogs the intestines. Ayurvedic doctors and practitioners often prescribe dietary changes, cleanses and herbal supplements to treat digestive disorders.
Food
Sour and pungent foods can aid in digestion, according to Ayurvedic medicine. Try adding more yogurt, pumpkin, brown rice, lentils, beets and radishes to your daily intake of food. For indigestion, try incorporating black pepper, garlic, onion or honey into your diet. The Indian spice turmeric may also be helpful in treating digestive disorders. It is used in Ayurveda to maintain the flora, a healthy digestive bacteria, in the large intestine.
Daily Supplements
Aloe vera gel should be taken daily to aid in digestion, according to Dr. Vasant Lad, an Ayurvedic practitioner. Take two teaspoons three times daily until you see improvement. Drinking a tea made of boiled fresh ginger can also improve functioning of the digestive system. Burdock root tea is also recommended for long-term digestive problems.
Cleansing Practices
In Ayurveda, cleansing practices are often used to treat digestive disorders. A warm-water fast for three days is recommended for those suffering from constipation. Blood-letting is a cleansing practice used when your skin is suffering from digestive problems. Blood is extracted to relieve stress on the veins. Blood-letting must be administered by a physician. A breathing exercise called Kapalabhati is used in Ayurveda to increase digestive fire, agni. An inhale is taken naturally, and on the exhale, the stomach muscles are snapped in forcefully to extract all the air. This breathing pattern can be repeated for up to one minute daily.
References
- "Gray's Anatomy"; Henry Gray; 1901 & 1977
- "Ayurveda, The Science of Self Healing"; Dr. Vasant Lad, 1985
- "Ayurvedic Yoga Therapy"; Mukunda Stiles, 2007
