By Arjun Madhav A stroke is a critical medical emergency that occurs when the blood supply to the brain is interrupted. Ayurveda as an ancient Indian medical system, takes a holistic approach to treating a wide range of ailments, including stroke. The two basic subtypes of stroke are hemorrhagic and ischemic. Ayurvedic treatments for stroke are safe and effective, promoting balance and overall health.
Understanding Stroke
Understanding stroke symptoms will help you provide the appropriate medical attention to the patient at the proper time:
Signs and Symptoms
The most common type of stroke is ischemic stroke, which is caused by a blood clot blocking a brain-supplying artery.
Ischemic Stroke Symptoms
- Sudden weakness or numbness on one side of the face, arm, or leg, which usually affects one side of the body.
- Difficulty speaking and understanding speech. The person may have slurred speech or difficulty finding the correct words.
- Vision problems include blurred or double vision, as well as sudden loss of vision in one or both eyes.
- Sudden and severe headache with no reason.
- Dizziness, lack of balance, or trouble walking.
A Hemorrhagic stroke occurs when a blood artery ruptures and produces bleeding in or around the brain.
Hemorrhagic Stroke Symptoms
- Sudden and terrible headache.
- Nausea and vomiting.
- Numbness or weakness on one side of the body.
- Difficulty speaking, understanding speech, or confusion.
- Vision issues, such as blurry or double vision.
- Loss of consciousness or fainting.
Ayurvedic Approach To Stroke
According to Ayurveda, Stroke is primarily linked to an imbalance of the Vata dosha, which controls circulation and movement in the body. In Ayurveda, the concept of “Pakshaghata” provides a framework for understanding and treating stroke, emphasizing the importance of the body’s energy dynamics, particularly the Vata dosha. In Ayurveda, health is maintained through a delicate balance of three doshas: Vata, Pitta, and Kapha. Vata dosha controls movement, circulation, and the neurological system. A stroke is brought on as a result of decreased oxygen and blood supply to the brain.
When Vata gets worse, it can cause inflammation (ama) and obstruction (Srotorodha) in the blood vessels (Srotas) that nourish the brain.
This imbalance can reduce blood supply to the brain, causing stroke symptoms such as paralysis, speech difficulty, and sensory deficits. An inflamed Vata dosha can also induce emotional imbalances like worry and fear, which can slow down the healing process.
Ayurvedic Treatment For Stroke
1. Nasya (Nasal Administration)
It refers to the nasal administration of therapeutic oils or herbal combinations. By cleansing the nasal and cerebral passageways, this therapy improves blood flow and reduces brain inflammation.
2. Abhyanga (Therapeutic Massage)
Abhyanga is an Ayurvedic massage technique that uses heated oil on the body. The massage is performed with precise strokes and techniques that stimulate the lymphatic system. When conducted with specific herbal oils, abhyanga improves blood flow, reduces muscle stiffness, and promotes the body’s natural detoxifying process.
3. Panchakarma Therapy
It is a collection of five Ayurvedic detoxification treatments that help remove toxins and promote rejuvenation. These treatments include Vamana (therapeutic vomiting). Virechana refers to therapeutic purgation. Basti (Medicated enema). Nasya (the nasal delivery of Qmokshana (bloodletting). Panchakarma balances the body’s three doshas (Vata, Pitta, and Kapha).
4. Medhya Rasayanas (Brain Tonics)
Ayurvedic plants such as Brahmi, Ashwagandha, and Shankhpushpi have been used to enhance memory, cognition, and brain function. Shirodhara is a practice that involves regularly pouring medicinal oil into the forehead, which promotes healing by lowering tension and soothing the mind. This treatment helps to improve cognitive function, which can be impaired after stroke.
5. Masha Pinda Sweda
It is an uncommon treatment for bone, joint, and nerve illnesses. Masha means black gram, and sweda means sudstion. It is a therapy in which Masha is mixed into a pill and applied to the affected area to provide sudation. This improves the strength of damaged muscles and is a tried-and-true method for nerve strengthening.
6. Yoga and Meditation
These parts of Ayurveda can aid in stroke healing. Yoga is a gentle kind of exercise that can help you build strength, flexibility, and balance. Yoga poses can be changed to meet the specific needs of stroke survivors, and a certified Ayurvedic practitioner can create a personalized yoga practice for each patient. Meditation is another Ayurvedic practice that can be beneficial to stroke sufferers to help relieve stress and improve cognitive performance.
7. Ayurvedic Herbs
Ayurvedic medicines can assist restore brain function, reduce inflammation, and support post-stroke rehabilitation. Brahmi is one of the medicines often used in ayurvedic treatment for stroke that can be beneficial to stroke survivors. Brahmi is known for its potential to enhance cognitive function and memory. Shankhapushpi. Ashwagandha, or Guggulu, is an Ayurvedic herb noted for its stress-reduction and cognitive-function-improving properties.
8. Diet and Lifestyle Modifications
Ayurvedic treatment for stroke includes food and lifestyle changes. Stroke survivors should consume a nutritious, balanced diet that includes fresh fruits and vegetables, complete grains, and lean protein. They are also recommended not to consume processed meals, coffee, or alcohol. Regular exercise, stress management, and proper sleep can help to speed up recovery after a stroke.
Ayurvedic Therapies For Post-Stroke Rehabilitation & Recovery
Stroke rehabilitation is a process that assists people in recovering from the consequences of a stroke by restoring as much function and independence as possible. Stroke rehabilitation aims to help people restore physical, cognitive, and emotional skills that were lost or compromised as a result of the stroke.
Physical Therapy: It can help a person increase their mobility and strength.
Occupational Therapy: It can assist the individual in daily tasks such as dressing, bathing, and cooking.
Speech and Language Therapy: It can help people improve their communication abilities.
Cognitive Therapy: It can help patients improve their memory, concentration, and problem-solving abilities.
Benefits Of Ayurveda For Stroke Rehabilitation
- Improves strength, flexibility, and balance.
- Boosts brain function.
- Provides dietary and lifestyle.
- Reduces stress and anxiety.
- Enhances overall physical and mental resilience.
The Ayurvedic approach to stroke healing emphasizes restoring balance, purifying the body, and renewing the nervous system. Ayurveda, which combines tailored treatments, herbal medicines, dietary adjustments, yoga, and lifestyle changes, can significantly enhance stroke victims’ quality of life and promote long-term health. Do a good research and get treated at the best ayurvedic hospital Kerala, which offers innovative and specialized ayurvedic therapies for a wide range of ailments.
Read To Know: Complete Guide to Studying and Living in Canada
