Understanding of H. Pylori Infection

Pylori (Helicobacter pylori) is a type of bacteria that lives in our Stomach. Its overgrowth causes problems in the stomach or first part of the Small Intestine, usually in the form of Ulcers. In most of the cases, the symptoms can be mild and can go unnoticed. Common signs begin with indigestion and abdominal Pain. But if left untreated, it can lead to severe issues.

Ayurveda focuses on balancing the 3 Doshas- Vata, Pitta & Kapha to maintain health. It is mainly Pitta Dosha that gets affected in this case. Ama & Agni are also two important parameters to be treated. Ama needs to be expelled out of the body and Agni needs to function properly. H. Pylori can be treated with Ayurveda, by incorporating the right changes in Diet & Lifestyle and taking Ayurvedic Medicines.

According to Ayurvedic perspective, H. Pylori is caused because of the following reasons:

  1. Among the 3 doshas (Vata, Pitta, Kapha), Aggravation (Vikriti) of Pitta dosha
  2. Weak Agni (digestive fire)
  3. Ama (toxins) in the body which ultimately weakens the Agni

The above 3 reasons can be caused due to:

  • Wrong Food Habits- Too Spicy, Oily Food, Incompatible food (Viruddahara)
  • Wrong Food timings- late night eating, irregular timings
  • Chronic Stress- can affect hunger, food choices, weaken Agni
  • Weak immunity- increases chances of infections like H. Pylori
  • Chronic Acidity- if left untreated, can also lead to H. Pylori infection

Common Signs & Symptoms of H. Pylori

1. Acid reflux (Amlapitta)

know more about acid reflux

2. Indigestion

3. Altered Bowels

  • Constipation (Vata Dosha involved)
  • Diarrhea (Pitta Dosha)

4. Gastritis

  • Pain in Stomach

5. Stomach Ulcers

Ayurvedic Herbs for H. Pylori

  1. Triphala: Detoxifies and regulates digestion.
  2. Licorice (Yashtimadhu): Soothes ulcers and stomach lining.
  3. Neem: Natural antibacterial properties.
  4. Guduchi (Tinospora cordifolia): Boosts immunity and combats infections.
  5. Amalaki (Indian Gooseberry): Rich in antioxidants, it supports digestion.
  6. Turmeric (Haridra): Anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial effects.

According to the Patient’s Vikriti, the combination of herbs is decided. The herbs aim to alleviate Pitta Dosha, remove Ama from the body, and improve Agni. It is not good to take these herbs on your own as they can worsen the condition if not taken in the proper dose or combination. Every person’s Prakriti and Vikriti are different; hence, it is advised to first get diagnosed and then have medicines as recommended by your Ayurvedic Physician.

Ayurvedic Diet for H. Pylori

Foods to Include: 

  1. A Pitta-pacifying diet
  2. Spices like Coriander, Fennel, Cumin
  3. Probiotic-rich Food (curd, buttermilk) 

Foods to Avoid: 

  1. Spicy Food can aggravate the condition
  2. Oily Food should be reduced or avoided during treatment
  3. Fermented food should be reduced
  4. Alcohol is to be completely avoided
  5. Caffeine can aggravate symptoms

Lifestyle Modifications for H. Pylori Management

  • Stress management (Yoga, Pranayama, Meditation) should be a part of daily practice to regulate the Gut-Brain Axis
  • Maintaining a consistent daily routine (Dinacharya)
  • Adequate sleep and hydration  is important to regulate digestion
  • Eating at a regular time is crucial for maintaining Digestive Health
  • Avoiding late-night meals and overeating
  • Mindful eating habits help in the Proper release of digestive juices
  • Physical activity for digestive health.

Ayurvedic Therapies for H. Pylori Treatment

  • Personalized therapy plans under Ayurvedic practitioners & Yoga Therapists are advised for a holistic treatment.
  • Panchakarma Detoxification: Virechana (Purgation Therapy) is one of the 5 Panchkarma Therapies to cleanse toxins (Ama) from the system.
  • Abhyanga (Oil Massage): Shiroabhyanga & Padabyanga can be added to reduce stress and balance doshas.
  • Regular Ayurvedic detox routines can be done to prevent minor ailments from becoming major disorders.

Ayurvedic Remedy for h pylori

  • Aloe Vera Juice: Soothes the stomach lining.
  • Diluted Watermelon Juice: Pitta Shamak
  • Coconut Water: Pitta Shamak
  • Fresh Amla or Amla Juice: Pitta Shamak, Tridosha Balancing

Yoga Therapy for H. Pylori

Yoga Therapy looks at the entire condition holistically. It focuses on Physical Asanas, Pranayama, Deep Relaxation Therapy (DRT), and Dharana Practices for a focused Mind. In the case of H. Pylori, Stress can play a major role in making food choices and not eating mindfully.

Hence, learning to manage Stress becomes an important factor. A lifestyle that balances Rest and Movement is difficult to attain, but with Yogasana practices, it can be very well managed. This supports proper digestion and harmony between the Gut-Brain axis. Improving the Sleep Cycle and managing emotions can improve digestion and reduce the intensity of symptoms.

It is best to consult a yoga therapist before choosing your practices as these practices can affect you differently in different conditions. 

Shuddhi Kriya- To remove Toxins (Annamaya Kosha):

  • Vaman Dhauti
  • Laghu Shankha Prakshalana (LSP)
  • Kapal Bhanti

Asana Practices- To Soothe & Strengthen the Abdominal Muscles (Annamaya Kosha):

  • Ardhakati Charkrasana
  • Samkonasana
  • Uttanasana
  • Viparita Karni
  • Sarvangasana
  • Halsana
  • Setubadhasana
  • Chakrasana
  • Bhujangasana
  • Salbhasana

Pranayama Practices- To kindle Agni and improve overall Physiology (Pranayama Kosha):

  • Nadi Shodhana
  • Seetali
  • Sitkari
  • Bhramari

DRT (Deep Relataion Therapy)- To Relax the entire Mind-Body (Manomaya Kosha)

  • DRT
  • Yoga Nidra
  • Mantra Chanting
  • Ajapa Japa

Dharna Practices- To have a focused mind and release Stress (Manomaya Kosha):

  • Focussed Breathing
  • Dot Trataka
  • Guided Meditation
  • MSRT
  • PET

Precautions and When to Seek Ayurvedic Guidance

Pylori is a chronic condition; just home remedies will not provide a solution. It is important to work with a qualified Ayurvedic practitioner to get the root cause treated. Self-medication of herbs can aggravate the present condition or lead to Ulcers. This can lead to emergencies that require immediate medical attention.

Ayurveda focuses on Digestive Capacity (Agni) and holds a weak agni responsible for all major diseases. It is very important to have a balanced lifestyle, diet, and professional guidance to keep ourselves from a condition becoming Chronic. For Long-term digestive health, bringing Ayurvedic Principles & Yogic Practices into our daily habits is crucial.

FAQs About Ayurvedic Treatment for H. Pylori

1. Can Ayurvedic herbs completely cure H. pylori?

Yes, a holistic Ayurvedic Treatment can cure H. pylori.

2. How long does it take to see results with Ayurvedic treatment?

It usually takes 2-3 months of time. But it can vary based on its chronicity and complexity

3. Are Ayurvedic treatments safe for long-term use?

Absolutely. Ayurvedic Treatments are one of the safest options for long-term treatment, with minimal to no side effects if you work with a good practitioner.

4. Can Ayurvedic and allopathic treatments be combined?

In most cases yes. It can vary based on specific conditions.

5. Do Panchakarma therapies play a key role in H. pylori treatment?

Yes. They help in removing Ama (toxins) and balance Agni.

6. Are there dietary restrictions during Ayurvedic treatment?

Yes. A holistic Ayurvedic treatment is incomplete without following proper dietary restrictions. These dietary habits go a long way in preventing future ailments.

7. What role does stress play in H. pylori infections?

Stress can affect our Immune System and make us susceptible to infections increasing the chances of H. pylori. It can directly affect Digestion leading to a weak Agni and Ama formation.

8. How can one prevent H. pylori reinfection after treatment?

Complete the treatment. Do not stop in between when you start seeing good results. Continue to follow a Diet and lifestyle according to your Prakriti, Seasons, and region. Make Yogic practices a part of your life.

9. Is Ayurvedic treatment suitable for children with H. pylori?

Yes. Ayurvedic Treatment is one of the safest treatments for children.

10. Can Ayurvedic herbs prevent H. pylori infections?

Yes. If the diagnosis is done at an early stage, it can be prevented. Working on a Weak Agni and removing Ama regularly, even before a disease has occurred, can be a good preventive measure.