Ayurvedic medicine, an ancient holistic healing system, offers a unique approach to addressing stroke and its effects. Drawing upon centuries-old traditions and herbal remedies, Ayurvedic treatments for stroke focus on restoring balance to the body’s energies, known as doshas, through personalized dietary plans, herbal supplements, detoxification therapies, and lifestyle modifications. Central to Ayurvedic philosophy is the belief that health is maintained when there is harmony between the mind, body, and spirit, and thus, Ayurvedic interventions for stroke aim to not only alleviate physical symptoms but also promote overall well-being and prevent future occurrences. While modern medical research continues to explore the efficacy and safety of Ayurvedic approaches for stroke management, many individuals worldwide seek out Ayurvedic practitioners for complementary and alternative therapies to support their recovery and enhance their quality of life.
Ayurveda is a Traditional way of healing that looks at the whole body. It helps with different sicknesses, like stroke. A stroke is when the brain doesn’t get enough blood, which is very serious. There are two main types: haemorrhagic and ischemic strokes. Ayurveda has treatments for stroke that are safe and work well. They help bring balance back to the body and keep you healthy.
What is a stroke?
A stroke happens when the blood flow to a part of the brain gets blocked or reduced. This stops brain cells from getting oxygen and food, causing them to die quickly. There are two main types of strokes: ischemic and hemorrhagic.
An ischemic stroke is when a blockage in a blood vessel stops blood flow to the brain. This can be caused by a clot or a narrowing of the blood vessels.
A hemorrhagic stroke is when a blood vessel in the brain bursts or leaks, causing bleeding inside the brain. This puts pressure on brain cells and harms them.
Symptoms of a stroke include sudden trouble speaking, weakness, or paralysis on one side of the body. Doctors can confirm if someone had a stroke by doing special X-ray tests like CAT scans.
Getting quick medical help is really important because it can lower the chance of death or disability from a stroke. People can reduce their risk of having a stroke by managing things like high blood pressure and diabetes. A stroke is also called a cerebrovascular accident or CVA.
What Is Stroke Paralysis?
After a stroke, many people have a disability called paralysis. This means they can’t move some or all of their muscles. Normally, the brain sends messages to muscles to make them move. But when someone has paralysis from a stroke, these messages don’t work right because part of the brain isn’t working properly.
When someone has a stroke, their brain might not get enough blood, causing a medical emergency called a stroke. This can lead to paralysis. Paralysis usually affects the opposite side of the body from where the stroke happened. It can happen to any part of the body, and about 90% of stroke survivors have some level of paralysis.
But there’s hope! With help from physiotherapy, medication, and special exercises, people can recover from stroke paralysis and start moving again.
Ayurvedic Perspective of Stroke
Ayurveda calls a stroke Pakshaghata. It happens when the Vata dosha in the body gets out of balance. This dosha controls how our muscles and senses work.
To treat a stroke, we focus on bringing back the brain’s ability to move and feel. Medicines taken internally help increase blood flow and provide natural antioxidants to the brain. This helps revive brain cells and reduces cell damage. External therapies and panchakarma help the peripheral nervous system work better. Heat treatments also help relax muscles and reduce stiffness.
Strokes can cause bleeding or clots in the brain, which can stop the body from working normally or cause convulsions. Ayurvedic experts believe that blocked vaata movement leads to these symptoms. In Ayurveda, stroke happens when there’s a problem with Vata dosha, which manages how things move and flow in the body. When Vata is out of balance, it can cause inflammation and blockages in the blood vessels going to the brain. This stops enough oxygen and blood from reaching the brain, leading to a stroke.
Symptoms of stroke
Stroke symptoms include:
1. Difficulty speaking or understanding others. The person might seem confused, have trouble talking clearly, or not understand what others are saying.
2. Numbness, weakness, or inability to move in the face, arm, or leg. This usually affects just one side of the body. The person can try to raise both arms over their head. If one arm starts to fall, it could be a sign of a stroke. Also, one side of the mouth might droop when trying to smile.
3. Vision problems in one or both eyes. The person might suddenly have blurry or darkened vision in one or both eyes. Or they might see double.
4. Headache. A sudden, intense headache could be a symptom of a stroke. Vomiting, dizziness, and changes in consciousness might accompany the headache.
5. Difficulty walking. Someone having a stroke might trip, lose balance, or have trouble coordinating their movements.
Causes of Stroke
Stroke happens when something blocks or bursts in the brain. There are two main types of stroke: ischemic and hemorrhagic.
• Ischemic stroke: This is the most common type. It occurs when a blood vessel in the brain gets blocked or narrowed. This blockage reduces blood flow, causing damage to brain cells. It can happen due to fatty deposits, blood clots, or debris in the blood vessels. Sometimes, a temporary blockage occurs, known as a transient ischemic attack (TIA). This doesn’t cause lasting symptoms but indicates a risk of a full stroke later.
• Hemorrhagic stroke: This occurs when a blood vessel in the brain leaks or bursts, causing bleeding inside the brain. Factors like high blood pressure, blood thinners, weak spots in vessel walls, head trauma, or certain conditions affecting blood vessel walls can lead to this type of stroke.
• Transient ischemic attack (TIA): This is like a mini-stroke with temporary symptoms similar to a stroke but doesn’t cause permanent damage. It’s caused by a temporary decrease in blood supply to part of the brain. Having a TIA means a higher risk of a full stroke later.
Reasons for Stroke
1. Being too heavy or obese.
2. Not being active enough.
3. Drinking too much alcohol at once or often.
4. Using illegal drugs like cocaine or methamphetamine.
1. High blood pressure.
2. Smoking cigarettes or being near cigarette smoke a lot.
3. Having high cholesterol.
4. Having diabetes.
5. Having a problem where breathing stops for short times during sleep (obstructive sleep apnea).
6. Having heart problems like heart failure, heart defects, heart infection, or irregular heartbeats like atrial fibrillation.
7. Having a personal or family history of stroke, heart attack, or mini-strokes (transient ischemic attack).
8. Getting sick with COVID-19.
1. Age – People who are 55 or older are more likely to have a stroke than younger people.
2. Race or ethnicity – African American and Hispanic people have a higher chance of having a stroke than people of other races or ethnicities.
3. Gender – Men have a higher chance of having a stroke than women. Women who have strokes are usually older and are more likely to die from them than men.
4. Hormones – Using birth control pills or hormone treatments with estrogen can make the risk of stroke higher.
Ayurvedic Medicine for stroke
1. Brahmi:
Brahmi, also known as Bacopa monnieri, is renowned for its cognitive-enhancing properties. It contains compounds that support brain function, including memory and concentration. In stroke treatment, Brahmi may help by improving cognitive function and reducing neurological damage. Its antioxidant properties also protect brain cells from damage caused by free radicals, which can be heightened during a stroke. Additionally, Brahmi has anti-inflammatory effects that may help reduce brain inflammation associated with stroke, potentially aiding in recovery and neuroprotection.
2. Ashwagandha:
Ashwagandha, or Withania somnifera, is an adaptogenic herb known for its ability to combat stress and promote overall well-being. In stroke patients, Ashwagandha may help by reducing stress levels, which can exacerbate stroke symptoms and hinder recovery. Moreover, its antioxidant properties protect brain cells from damage and may help improve neurological function post-stroke. Ashwagandha also has anti-inflammatory effects that can aid in reducing brain inflammation, potentially contributing to better recovery outcomes.
3. Shankhapushpi:
Shankhapushpi, scientifically known as Convolvulus pluricaulis, is valued in Ayurveda for its memory-enhancing and neuroprotective properties. In stroke treatment, Shankhapushpi may help improve cognitive function by enhancing memory and concentration. Its antioxidant properties protect brain cells from oxidative stress, potentially reducing neurological damage caused by stroke. Shankhapushpi also exhibits anti-inflammatory effects, which can aid in reducing brain inflammation and promoting recovery post-stroke.
4. Ginkgo Biloba:
Ginkgo Biloba is a well-known herb that is believed to improve blood circulation and cognitive function. In stroke treatment, Ginkgo Biloba may help by increasing blood flow to the brain, which is crucial for recovery post-stroke. Improved blood circulation can enhance oxygen and nutrient delivery to brain cells, promoting their survival and function. Ginkgo Biloba also has antioxidant properties that protect brain cells from oxidative damage, potentially reducing neurological deficits post-stroke. Additionally, it may have anti-inflammatory effects, which can aid in reducing brain inflammation and supporting recovery.
5. Bala:
Bala, or Sida cordifolia, is an Ayurvedic herb known for its rejuvenating and strengthening properties. In stroke treatment, Bala may help by promoting nerve regeneration and muscle strength. Its rejuvenating properties support the overall recovery process, aiding in restoring mobility and functionality post-stroke. Bala also has anti-inflammatory effects, which can help reduce inflammation in the brain and support neurological recovery.
6. Arjuna:
Arjuna, scientifically known as Terminalia arjuna, is valued in Ayurveda for its cardiovascular benefits. In stroke treatment, Arjuna may help by improving heart function and circulation. Enhanced cardiovascular health can support overall recovery post-stroke by ensuring adequate blood flow to the brain. Arjuna also has antioxidant properties that protect heart and brain cells from oxidative stress, potentially reducing neurological damage caused by stroke. Additionally, it may have anti-inflammatory effects, which can aid in reducing brain inflammation and promoting recovery.
7. Jatamansi:
Jatamansi, or Nardostachys jatamansi, is known for its calming and neuroprotective properties. In stroke treatment, Jatamansi may help by reducing stress levels and promoting relaxation. Lower stress levels can aid in recovery post-stroke by reducing secondary complications and supporting overall well-being. Jatamansi also exhibits neuroprotective effects, which can help preserve brain function and promote neurological recovery post-stroke. Additionally, it may have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, further supporting brain health and recovery.
8. Punarnava:
Punarnava, or Boerhavia diffusa, is valued in Ayurveda for its diuretic and anti-inflammatory properties. In stroke treatment, Punarnava may help by reducing brain inflammation and promoting fluid balance. Its diuretic properties can help alleviate fluid retention, which is often a concern in stroke patients. Punarnava also exhibits anti-inflammatory effects, which can aid in reducing inflammation in the brain and supporting neurological recovery post-stroke. Additionally, it may have antioxidant properties that protect brain cells from oxidative damage, further supporting recovery efforts.
Effect of Stroke
When someone has a stroke, it can lead to problems that might last for a short time or stay forever. The issues depend on how long the brain didn’t get enough blood and which part got affected. Here are some things that might happen:
1. Difficulty Moving Muscles: You might have trouble moving certain parts of your body, like one side of your body or your face or arm muscles.
2. Trouble Speaking or Swallowing: Your mouth and throat muscles might get affected, making it hard to talk clearly, swallow food, or even eat. Understanding or saying words, reading, and writing could become tough.
3. Memory Problems or Trouble Thinking: Many people who have had strokes might forget things or find it hard to think clearly, make decisions, or understand things.
4. Emotional Changes: People might find it harder to control their feelings or feel sad after a stroke.
5. Pain or Strange Feelings: You might feel pain, numbness, or odd sensations in the parts of your body that were affected by the stroke.
6. Changes in Behavior and Self-care: After a stroke, some people might become quieter or need more help with everyday tasks like getting dressed or washing up.
Prevention of Stroke
To avoid having a stroke, there are things you can do. First, know what might make you more likely to have one. Your doctor can help with this. They can also suggest ways to live healthier. If you’ve already had a stroke or a mini-stroke (called a TIA), these tips can help stop it from happening again.
Some of these tips are similar to those for avoiding heart problems. Here’s what you can do:
1. Control your blood pressure: This is super important. If it’s high, you’re more at risk. Your doctor might give you medication or suggest lifestyle changes to help.
2. Watch what you eat: Cut back on foods with lots of cholesterol and unhealthy fats. These can clog up your arteries. If changing your diet isn’t enough, your doctor might give you medicine to help with your cholesterol.
3. Quit smoking: Smoking is bad for your health, including your risk of having a stroke. If you stop smoking, you lower your risk.
4. Manage diabetes: Keep your blood sugar in check by eating well, exercising, and, if needed, taking medicine.
5. Stay at a healthy weight: Being overweight can cause other problems that make strokes more likely. So, it’s important to keep an eye on your weight.
6. Eat plenty of fruits and veggies: These foods are good for you and can help lower your stroke risk.
7. Get moving: Exercise helps in many ways, like keeping your blood pressure in check and improving your overall health. Aim for at least 30 minutes of exercise most days of the week.
8. Don’t Drink Too Much alcohol : Too much alcohol can raise your blood pressure and make strokes more likely. But a little bit each day might actually help prevent strokes. Just don’t overdo it.
9. Get help for sleep problems: If you have a condition like sleep apnea, treating it can lower your risk of stroke.
10. Stay away from illegal drugs: Drugs like cocaine and methamphetamine can increase your risk of having a stroke or mini-stroke. It’s best to avoid them altogether.
Ayurvedic Treatment for Stroke
1. Nasal Treatment: This involves using special oils or herbs in the nose to clear passages and improve blood flow to the brain, reducing inflammation.
2. Therapeutic Massage: Massaging with herbal oils helps improve blood flow, reduce muscle stiffness, and help the body get rid of toxins.
3. Detoxification Techniques: These techniques help remove toxins from the body and promote healing. For stroke patients, therapies like purgation and enema are particularly helpful.
4. Brain Tonics: Certain Ayurvedic plants like Brahmi, Ashwagandha, and Shankapushpi can boost memory and brain function.
5. Shirodhara: This involves pouring oil on the forehead, which reduces stress and calms the mind, aiding in healing.
6. Masha Pinda Sweda: This therapy uses black gram to provide heat to affected areas, strengthening muscles and nerves.
7. Navarakizhi: Special rice is used to provide heat to affected areas, promoting rejuvenation and healing.
8. Matra Basti: This therapy is nourishing and strengthening, particularly focusing on reducing nerve-related issues.
9. Mustadi Yapana Vasti: It’s beneficial for nervous system and musculoskeletal disorders by reducing nerve-related issues.
10. Soft Purgation: This gentle method helps the body remove toxins without causing strain.
11. Pizhichil (Kaya Seka): Herbal oils or decoctions are poured over the body to reduce pain, stiffness, and swelling.
12. Herbal Remedies: Certain herbal mixtures strengthen blood vessels and aid in healing, such as Dashmoolarishta and Punarnavasavam.
Food Help to Prevent Stroke
Leafy Greens:
These are vegetables like spinach and kale. They have lots of good stuff like vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. They also have potassium which helps control blood pressure, which is important for stopping strokes. You can put them in salads, smoothies, or stir-fries.
Berries:
Like blueberries and strawberries. They taste great and have lots of antioxidants. These help protect your cells and make your heart healthier.
Nuts and Seeds:
Snack on almonds, walnuts, flaxseeds, or chia seeds. They have good things like omega-3 fatty acids, fiber, and antioxidants. Eating a handful of nuts or adding seeds to your oatmeal can help stop strokes.
Whole Grains:
Eat things like brown rice, quinoa, and oats. They have fiber that keeps your cholesterol levels healthy. High cholesterol can cause strokes, so eating whole grains is good for preventing them.
Avocado:
Avocados have healthy fats that can lower bad cholesterol and reduce blood clots. You can add avocados to salads, sandwiches, or eat them on their own.
Citrus Fruits:
Oranges, grapefruits, and lemons are full of vitamin C. This vitamin helps your immune system and keeps your blood vessels healthy, which lowers your stroke risk.
Tomatoes:
They have something called lycopene, which is good for preventing strokes. Lycopene reduces inflammation and stops blood clots. You can eat tomatoes fresh, in sauces, or in salads.
Broccoli:
Eating broccoli and other veggies like Brussels sprouts and cauliflower is good for your heart. They have antioxidants and things that reduce inflammation, which can lower your stroke risk.
Green Tea:
It has antioxidants called catechins that are linked to a lower stroke risk. Drinking green tea instead of sugary drinks is a healthy choice.
Yogasan For Stroke
Yoga might help older people who had a stroke to balance better and be more active. A stroke is when part of the brain doesn’t get enough oxygen-rich blood. It can cause problems like trouble speaking or moving one side of the body. After a stroke, many people have trouble with balance and might fall more.
To help with recovery after a stroke, people often do therapy to get stronger and improve movement. This new study from Indianapolis found that doing yoga might also help. They had 47 stroke survivors do yoga twice a week for eight weeks. Some did yoga in a group, some did it at home, and some didn’t do yoga at all. The people who did yoga had better balance, felt better in their daily life, and were less afraid of falling.
A stroke happens when part of the brain doesn’t get enough oxygen-rich blood. This can damage the fragile brain tissue, depending on which part of the brain is affected. It can be caused by a blockage in a blood vessel supplying blood to the brain or by a blood vessel in the brain bursting.
Here are five yoga poses that can help improve overall health and lower the risk of stroke. Try to hold each pose for 30 seconds and repeat for up to three sets:
1. Seated Forward Bend (Paschimottanasana)
• Sit with your legs stretched forward, slightly bending your knees.
• Raise your arms up and keep your back straight.
• Breathe out and bend forward from your hips, placing your upper body on your lower body.
• Lower your arms and hold your big toes with your fingers.
• Try to touch your knees with your nose and hold for 10 seconds.
2. Standing Forward Bend (Padahastasana)
• Stand with your feet together.
• Breathe out and bend forward from your hips, touching your nose to your knees.
• Place your palms on either side of your feet.
• Slowly straighten your knees and try to bring your chest to your thighs.
• Hold this position for a while.
3. Bow Pose (Dhanurasana)
• Lie on your stomach.
• Bend your knees and hold your ankles with your hands.
• Lift your legs and arms as high as you can.
• Keep a strong grip and hold the pose.
4. Cobra Pose (Bhujangasana)
• Lie flat on your stomach with your palms under your shoulders.
• Keep your feet together with toes on the ground.
• Inhale deeply and lift your head, shoulders, and torso up.
• Keep your navel on the floor and lift at a 30-degree angle.
• Broaden your shoulders and raise your head slightly.
• To release, slowly lower your torso and exhale.
5. Mountain Pose (Samasthiti/Tadasana)
• Stand tall with your big toes touching and heels together.
• Engage your abdominal muscles and relax your shoulders.
• Take 5-8 breaths while activating your leg muscles.
• This pose is good for seniors to maintain strong posture.
In conclusion, Ayurvedic medicine presents a promising avenue for stroke management and recovery. While conventional treatments have made significant strides in reducing mortality rates associated with strokes, survivors often grapple with long-term disabilities and challenges in their daily lives. Ayurveda offers a holistic approach to stroke care, focusing not only on physical symptoms but also on mental and spiritual well-being.
Through a combination of herbal remedies, dietary adjustments, lifestyle changes, and specialized therapies such as Panchakarma, Ayurvedic practitioners aim to restore balance to the body and promote healing from within. Ayurvedic herbs like Ashwagandha, Brahmi, and Ginkgo Biloba have shown potential in improving cognitive function, enhancing circulation, and reducing inflammation, all of which are crucial aspects of stroke recovery.
Moreover, Ayurvedic treatments are tailored to individual needs, recognizing that each person’s constitution and circumstances are unique. This personalized approach allows for targeted interventions that address specific imbalances and support the body’s innate healing mechanisms.
While further research is needed to fully understand the efficacy and safety of Ayurvedic interventions for stroke, anecdotal evidence and preliminary studies suggest promising outcomes. Incorporating Ayurvedic principles into comprehensive stroke rehabilitation programs may offer additional benefits and improve the overall quality of life for stroke survivors. As with any medical treatment, it’s essential for individuals to consult qualified healthcare providers and seek guidance from trained Ayurvedic practitioners to ensure safe and effective care.
Reference
https://easyayurveds.com/ayurvedic-medicine-for-diarrhea/Medicinal Plants for skin Burns
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