What is Gastritis?

Gastritis is the inflammation of the stomach lining, which leads to symptoms like acidity, bloating, nausea, and indigestion. It occurs due to excess stomach acid, bacterial infections, unhealthy eating habits, stress, and long-term use of painkillers. In Ayurveda, it is known as “Amla Pitta”, caused by an imbalance in Pitta dosha leading to excessive acid production and digestive disturbances.

Causes of Gastritis

• Unhealthy diet: Spicy, oily, and processed foods irritate the stomach lining.
• Excessive acidity: Overproduction of stomach acid damages the digestive tract.
• Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) infection: A bacterial infection that affects the stomach lining.
• Stress & Anxiety: Increases acid production and weakens digestion.
• Regular use of NSAIDs (painkillers): Damages the stomach lining over time.
• Alcohol & Smoking: Irritates the stomach wall and increases acid levels.
• Skipping meals or irregular eating habits: Leads to acidity and digestive issues.

Symptoms of Gastritis

• ✅ Burning sensation in the stomach (Acidity)
• ✅ Bloating and indigestion
• ✅ Nausea and vomiting
• ✅ Loss of appetite
• ✅ Stomach pain and discomfort
• ✅ Heartburn and acid reflux

Ayurvedic Approach to Gastritis Treatment

Ayurveda aims to restore digestive balance, reduce Pitta dosha, and heal the stomach lining naturally. Kerala Ayurveda follows herbal medicines, Panchakarma therapies, and dietary modifications for long-term relief.

Kerala Ayurvedic Treatment for Gastritis

1. Panchakarma Detox for Gastritis Relief

• • Virechana (Purgation Therapy): Removes toxins and balances Pitta.
• • Abhyanga (Oil Massage): Helps reduce stress-related acidity.
• • Shirodhara (Oil Pouring Therapy): Soothes the nervous system and reduces stress-induced acidity.
• • Basti (Herbal Enema): Strengthens digestion and relieves acidity naturally.

2. Ayurvedic Herbal Remedies for Gastritis

• • Amla (Indian Gooseberry): Natural coolant that heals the stomach lining.
• • Licorice (Mulethi): Protects the stomach from acidity and ulcers.
• • Jeera (Cumin Seeds): Reduces bloating and improves digestion.
• • Giloy (Guduchi): Detoxifies the stomach and controls inflammation.
• • Shatavari: Soothes acidity and improves gut health.
• • Triphala Churna: Cleanses the stomach and improves digestion.

3. Ayurvedic Diet & Lifestyle for Gastritis Relief

• ✅ Eat cooling and alkaline foods: Cucumber, coconut water, bananas, and buttermilk.
• ✅ Avoid spicy, fried, and acidic foods: Prevents further irritation of the stomach lining.
• ✅ Drink lukewarm water: Improves digestion and flushes out toxins.
• ✅ Follow fixed meal timings: Prevents excess acid buildup in the stomach.
• ✅ Avoid smoking, alcohol, and caffeine: Reduces acidity and promotes healing.
• ✅ Practice stress management: Yoga and meditation help prevent stress-related acidity.

4. Yoga & Breathing Techniques for Gastritis Relief

• • Vajrasana (Thunderbolt Pose): Aids digestion when practiced after meals.
• • Pawanmuktasana (Wind-Relieving Pose): Reduces bloating and gas formation.
• • Anulom Vilom (Alternate Nostril Breathing): Calms the mind and improves digestion.
• • Shavasana (Corpse Pose): Helps in stress management and acidity control.