Piles { अर्ष रोग: }
Piles, or haemorrhoids, occur when the blood vessels in the rectum and anus become inflamed and swollen. They can be internal, external, or mixed. In Ayurveda, piles are known as "Arshas" or "Bavasir" primarily due to imbalances in the body's Vata and Pitta doshas, each presenting distinct characteristics. Vataja Arsha is typically marked by dry, hard, and painful swellings, often accompanied by constipation and a blackish discoloration of the piles. In Pittaja Arsha, the symptoms are more inflammatory, featuring burning sensations, bleeding, pain, and a reddish hue, reflecting Pitta’s hot and sharp qualities. Kaphaja Arsha, on the other hand, presents with soft, slimy, and large-sized piles that are generally painless but may be associated with mucous discharge, due to Kapha’s heavy and moist nature.
These imbalances can result from a sedentary lifestyle, dietary habits, and straining during bowel movements. Ayurveda offers a comprehensive approach to managing Piles. It involves nutritional modifications, lifestyle changes, herbal remedies, and therapies. In chronic cases, Ayurveda suggests Ksharsutra [क्षर्सूत्रम्]treatment; this minimally invasive procedure involves inserting a medicated thread coated with herbal alkaline compounds and Kshara Karma [क्षार कर्म], a caustic alkaline substance applied to hemorrhoidal tissue. Both treatments are effective for managing recurrent or chronic piles and are associated with fewer postoperative complications.
General Ayurvedic Therapies for Piles
- Shodhana Chikitsa:Detox procedures to eliminate excess Pitta, balance Vata, and relieve constipation.
- Shamana Chikitsa: Pacification by Internal medications to reduce swelling and bleeding.
- Kshara Sutra:A minimally invasive surgical technique using medicated thread to ligate and remove piles.
- Bhaisajya:Herbal medication to reduce inflammation, stop bleeding, aid digestion, and heal rectal tissues.
- Rasayana:Rejuvenatio to strengthens rectal tissues and prevents recurrence.
Note: Modern Medicine focuses on diagnosing and treating diseases, while in Ayurveda, the treatment for the
same disease can differ significantly for each person, because Ayurveda focuses on balancing the body, mind, and spirit by considering the
individual’s constitution (Prakriti), imbalances (Vikriti), and the interrelationship between the body and the environment hence
Ayurveda, the treatment for the same disease can vary for different individuals.
