GERD
Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD) is a chronic digestive disorder where stomach acid frequently flows back into the food pipe (esophagus), causing irritation and discomfort. At Agni the treatments that we do, not only manage ssymptoms but also targets the root cause to ensure long-term relief and digestive wellness.
Causes
GERD often results from a weakened lower esophageal sphincter (LES), which fails to prevent acid backflow. Key contributing factors include:
- Overeating or eating large meals close to bedtime
- Consumption of spicy, oily, and acidic foods
- Excess caffeine, alcohol, or carbonated drinks
- Smoking and tobacco use
- Stress, anxiety, and irregular sleep
- Obesity or being overweight
- Sedentary lifestyle
- Certain medications, including painkillers and antidepressants
Symptoms
Common signs include:
- Burning sensation in the chest (heartburn)
- Sour or bitter taste in the throat
- Regurgitation of food or acid
- Difficulty swallowing (dysphagia)
- Chronic cough or sore throat
- Hoarseness or a feeling of a lump in the throat
- Nausea or frequent burping
- Disrupted sleep due to discomfort
Ayurvedic Perspective on GERD
In Ayurveda, GERD is associated with Urdhwag Amlapitta, a condition caused by the vitiation of Pitta dosha. When Pitta becomes aggravated due to incorrect diet, stress, or poor digestion, it leads to excessive heat and acid in the stomach. This acidic content moves upward into the esophagus, causing inflammation and discomfort.
Ayurveda focuses on restoring Agni (digestive fire), balancing the doshas, and eliminating toxins (ama) to correct the root imbalance causing GERD.
Ayurvedic Treatment and Medicines for GERD
At Agni Ayurvedic Village, we provide an integrated healing plan tailored to each individual’s body constitution (Prakriti) and current imbalances.
- Customized Diet Plan (Pathya-Apathya)
We emphasize a soothing, Pitta-pacifying diet, avoiding spicy, fried, and acidic foods. Cooling and light meals are recommended to restore digestive harmony.
- Internal Herbal Medicines
Natural formulations are used to heal the esophagus, regulate acid production, and enhance digestion. These may include:
- Kamadudha Ras
- Avipattikar Churna
- Yashtimadhu (Licorice)
- Sootshekhar Ras
- Amalaki (Indian Gooseberry)
- Shatavari
- Detoxification Therapies (Panchakarma)
- Virechana (Purgation therapy) to eliminate excess Pitta and toxins.
- Vasti (medicated enema) to stabilize Vata, which often accompanies Pitta disorders.
- Lifestyle Correction
Daily routines (Dinacharya) are customized to regulate meal timings, improve sleep patterns, and reduce stress.
- Yoga & Pranayama
Gentle yoga postures and breathing techniques help calm the nervous system, improve digestion, and prevent acid reflux.
Complications of Untreated GERD
When left unmanaged, GERD can lead to serious health problems, including:
- Esophagitis (inflammation of the esophagus)
- Narrowing of the esophagus (strictures)
- Barrett’s esophagus (pre-cancerous changes in the esophageal lining)
- Respiratory issues such as chronic cough or asthma
- Nutrient malabsorption and fatigue
Ayurvedic treatment offers safe, natural, and sustainable relief without dependency on antacids or long-term medications.
Why Choose Agni for GERD Treatment?
At Agni Ayurvedic Village, we go beyond symptom management to offer holistic, long-lasting solutions. Here’s why patients trust us:
- Kerala based expert Ayurvedic Doctors: Personalized diagnosis based on symptomsand digestive health.
- Authentic Panchakarma Therapies: Time-tested detox procedures supervised by experienced professionals.
- Organic Herbal Medicines: Free from chemicals, sourced sustainably, and prepared according to classical texts.
- Integrated Wellness Programs: Including yoga, meditation, sattvic diet, and lifestyle counseling to prevent recurrence.