Gastritis

Gastritis refers to a group of conditions that share one key feature: inflammation of the stomach lining. In most cases, infection with the bacterium responsible for many stomach ulcers causes this inflammation. Additionally, frequent use of certain pain relievers irritates the stomach lining. Excess alcohol consumption also worsens gastritis.

Clinically, doctors see duodenal ulcers more often than gastric ulcers.

Observations suggest that people with O positive and B positive blood groups develop these conditions more frequently. Likewise, individuals with Vata–Pitta or Pitta–Vata Prakriti show higher susceptibility to ulcers.

Although everyone produces stomach acid, only about 1 in 10 people develop erosion of the stomach or duodenal lining, which indicates that other risk factors contribute.

Causes —

One of the most common causative factors, especially in our country, is Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) infection. Normally, other bacteria cannot survive in the highly acidic environment of the stomach.

However, several other factors can damage the stomach lining, including:

• Acute stress, particularly among executives and high-pressure professionals
• Long-term use of drugs such as aspirin and other NSAIDs
• Ingestion of corrosive substances

Interestingly, many people with a history of prolonged aspirin use may not experience significant pain, which can delay diagnosis.

Symptoms —

Patients commonly report indigestion and upper abdominal discomfort. In addition, the following symptoms may be present:

• Loss of appetite
• Nausea and vomiting
• Unexplained weight loss

Sometimes, patients describe a persistent feeling of emptiness or hunger. Moreover, ulcer-like symptoms often include pain when the stomach is empty.

In more severe cases, melena (blood in stools) may occur, and this can lead to anaemia. Pain is often localized to a specific area and, in duodenal ulcers, it typically develops late at night or in the early morning (1–2 AM).

Diagnosis —

Diagnosis is often clinical in the early stages. However, endoscopy becomes necessary under certain conditions.

• If there is no response after 6 months of treatment, endoscopy is advised.
• Additionally, in patients above 50 years of age — especially those with weight loss — endoscopy is mandatory.
• In younger patients who do not respond even after 2 months of treatment, endoscopic biopsy can be helpful.

Although a barium meal study may be performed, it can miss up to 20% of peptic ulcer cases. Therefore, endoscopy remains more reliable.

H. pylori infection may also be suspected in some reflux conditions.

Treatment (Ayurvedic Perspective)

Acute Phase

Drinking milk may temporarily relieve pain; however, the pain often returns after about two hours.

First Stage of Management

Initially, treatment focuses on Gulma Chikitsa and Amashaya Gata Vata Chikitsa. During this phase, Tikta Rasa–dominant medicines are commonly used.

Second Stage of Management

Later, Madhura Rasa medicines are introduced because Madhura is snigdha (unctuous) and helps in Vata–Pitta Shamana.
Additionally, therapies like Mridu Virechana and Ksheera Vasti may be advised.

Commonly Used Kashayams (Decoctions)

• Amrita Shadangam Kashayam
• Amruthotharam Kashayam
• Maha Tiktakam Kashayam
• Kaidaryadi Kashayam
• Shadanga Paniyam without Shunthi
• Drakshadi kashayam
• Vidaryadi kashayam
• Yasthimadhu, Musta Kashayam with honey
• Musta, Daruharidra, Dhanyaka kashayam

Churnam —

• Sudarshana Churna
• Triphala Churna

Gulika —

• Pravala Pishti
• Shankha Vati
• Panchanimbadi Gutika
• Prabhakara Vati

Lehyam —

• Parushakadi lehyam
• Mrdvikaadi Lehyam

Rasa Oushadha —

• Akika Bhasma
• Pravala Bhasma

Dietary Guidelines

Diet plays a crucial role in recovery. Therefore, the following habits are recommended:

• Eat an early dinner
• Chew food thoroughly before swallowing
• Drink water after meals
• Prefer small, frequent meals
• Include curry leaves, buttermilk, greens, carrots, and fibre-rich vegetables

Foods and Habits to Avoid

To prevent worsening of symptoms, patients should:

• Limit spicy, sour, oily foods, tubers, pickles, and fried items
• Avoid both fasting and overeating
• Avoid drinking cold water on an empty stomach
• Stop smoking and alcohol consumption
• Avoid hotel food, soft drinks, and bakery items
• Reduce coffee and tea intake

Reference —

Principles & Practice of Ayurvedic Medicine.