Ayurveda for Helicobacter Pylori

Helicobacter is a common type of bacteria that infects the stomach and can cause gastritis and peptic ulcers. This bacteria damage the tissues of the upper digestive tract like the duodenum (upper part of the small intestine). H. Pylori affects many people and can even cause ulcers. However, it is not necessary that people would show ulcers or other symptoms.

Some damages the H. Pylori bacteria can do:

Weakening the stomach lining: The protective stomach lining is attacked by the bacteria. Urease, a type of enzyme, is produced by the bacteria, which reduces the acidity of stomach acids. Digestive ﬂuids like acids and pepsin can damage the stomach's cells, thereby weakening the lining of the stomach. Ultimately the stomach and duodenum get ulcers and sores.
Inﬂammation: the bacteria can attach to the cells of the stomach. In such cases, the stomach's ability to protect itself gets compromised, and the area gets inﬂamed.
Increased acidity: H. Pylori can reduce ph by increasing the production of acids in the stomach. Though the real reason behind it is still not known
Stomach cancer: The H. Pylori bacteria can also cause stomach cancer

Currently, no deﬁnite treatment is available to cure the condition. However, the therapies that can treat the condition are evolving. The resistance of microbes and side effects is increasing, and the success in eradicating the bacteria is quite less.

Scientists are working on synthesizing drugs or compounds that can act as antibodies against H. pylori. Compared to them, alternative methods are searched by many which are are non-toxic, natural, and treatments, and far less costly. Research indicates that many plants and vegetables effectively act against bacteria due to their antibacterial properties.

Ayurvedic view

Like any disorder, Ayurveda provides a natural treatment for infection by H. Pylori as well. Ayurveda believes that the Vata, Kapha, and Pitta doshas maintain the balance in the body and maintain optimal health. Pitta aggravation causes an H. pylori infection and creates the condition of Amla pitta (the problem of acidity).

Ayurvedic treatment

The treatment focuses on correcting aggravated pitta. Herbs and diet controls are very effective here.

Herbs that can be used to help with cases of stubborn gut bacteria:

Amla (Emblica Officinalis): Indian gooseberry which is known as amla is very effective in treating gastritis, chronic acidity, indigestion and other problems of digestion
Mulethi (Glycyrrhiza Glabra): Due to anti inﬂammatory properties, and its effectiveness in countering H.Pylori and repairing damage, mulethi or licorice is used for centuries.
Ginger (Zingiber Officinale): Gingerol is found in ginger, which acts as an antioxidant and antiinﬂammatory drug. Due to this and its easy availability, it is commonly used to treat gastritis
Kumari (Aloe Barbadensis): Kumari is the name given to the aloe vera plant. Inﬂammatiin and aggravation of pitta dosha can be countered by daily consumption of aloe vera juice. Different gastritis problems and acid reﬂux issues are effectively relieved by aloe vera. Besides this, the burning feeling of the chest, sour taste, and other heartburn problems can also be treated using aloe vera. In Ayurveda, kumari is often used in combination with amla to treat gastritis.
Cardamom (Elettaria Cardamomum): Gastritis and acid reﬂux problems are very successfully solved with the appropriate dosage and use of cardamom churna (powder)
Fennel (Fenneliculum Vulgare): Saunf (Fennel) is commonly taken after a meal. It effectively cures gastritis by relieving the problems of indigestion and acidity
Ajwain (Trachelospermum Ammi): Carom seeds which are also known as ajwain is a useful herb for gastritis and other digestion problems

Contact one of our Practitioners at Vedic Health Ayurveda to understand how you can help eradicate H Pylori and resume normal digestive function and optimal health.