Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD)
GERD, or Amlapitta in Ayurveda, is caused by excess Pitta, leading to acid reflux and esophageal irritation.
About Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD)
Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD): is a chronic digestive condition where stomach acid flows back up into the esophagus (the tube connecting your mouth to your stomach) too frequently or for extended periods. This backwash of acid irritates the lining of the esophagus, causing a range of uncomfortable symptoms. In Ayurveda, GERD is often referred to as "Amlapitta," which translates to "sour bile, " which is primarily caused by an imbalance in the pitta dosha.
Common Causes
- Weakened Lower Esophageal Sphincter (LES)- The LES is a muscular valve at the bottom of the esophagus that acts as a one-way street, allowing food to pass into the stomach but preventing stomach contents from flowing back up. If the LES weakens or relaxes inappropriately, stomach acid can easily reflux into the esophagus.
- Hiatal Hernia- This occurs when part of the stomach pushes through the diaphragm (the muscle separating the chest and abdomen) into the chest cavity. This weakens the LES and facilitates acid reflux.
- Diet- Certain foods, like spicy or fatty meals, citrus fruits, tomato-based products, and even chocolate, can relax the LES and trigger heartburn in some people.
- Beverages- Coffee, alcohol, and carbonated drinks can also weaken the LES and worsen GERD symptoms.
- Medications- Certain medications, such as aspirin, ibuprofen, and some muscle relaxants, can irritate the esophagus and contribute to GERD.
- Pregnancy- Hormonal changes during pregnancy can weaken the LES and increase the risk of GERD.
- Being overweight or obese- Excess weight puts pressure on the abdomen, which can push up on the stomach and increase pressure on the LES.
Ayurvedic Perspective
Treatment and Management-
Dietary Changes-
- Avoid: Spicy, sour, fried, and processed foods can upset Pitta.
- Choose: Cool and alkaline foods like milk, ghee, fruits (except citrus), veggies (except tomatoes/onions), and whole grains.
- Eat Regularly: Have smaller meals more often to avoid overeating.
Lifestyle Tips-
- Manage Stress: Try yoga, meditation, and breathing exercises to handle stress better.
- Sleep Right: Don't lie down right after eating. Raise your bed slightly to ease digestion and prevent reflux.
- Weight Control: Maintain a healthy weight to reduce pressure on your stomach and ease GERD symptoms.
Herbal Remedies-
- Licorice- Soothes the digestive tract and reduces inflammation.
- Amla (Indian Gooseberry)- Rich in antioxidants and promotes healing of the esophageal lining.
- Pippali (Long Pepper)- Aids digestion and reduces hyperacidity.
- Tulsi (Holy Basil)- Has carminative properties that help relieve gas and bloating.
Therapies-
- Vamana: Controlled vomiting to remove excess Pitta and toxins, reducing acidity and inflammation.
- Virechana: Cleansing the intestines and liver, improving digestion and easing the digestive system's workload.
- Basti: Enema therapy to balance Vata and Pitta, enhance bowel movements, and ease digestive issues.
- Hydrotherapy: Using warm/cold water techniques to boost circulation, reduce inflammation, and aid digestion.
Yoga Asanas -
- Vajrasana: Improves digestion and reduces acidity.
- Pawanmuktasana: Relieves gas, bloating, and indigestion.
- Ardha Matsyendrasana: Stimulates abdominal organs for better digestion.
- Bhujangasana: Strengthens abdominal muscles and aids digestion.
- Shavasana: Promotes relaxation and reduces stress, beneficial for GERD.
Home Remedies -
- Apple Cider Vinegar: Dilute a tablespoon of apple cider vinegar in a glass of water and drink it before meals to help balance stomach acid levels.
- Fennel seed water: Soak half a teaspoon of fennel seeds in a glass of water overnight and drink it empty stomach in the morning to neutralize stomach acid and provide relief from heartburn.
- Aloe Vera Juice: Drinking a small amount of aloe vera juice can soothe the esophagus and reduce inflammation.
- Ginger Tea: Sipping on ginger tea or chewing on ginger slices can aid digestion, reduce nausea, and calm the stomach.
Common Symptoms
- Acid regurgitation
- Chest pain
- Difficulty swallowing
- Nausea
- Dry cough
Recommended Treatments
Sattvik Diet Treatment
Calm, nourishing, and digestible food patterns that support clarity, steady energy, and gentle healing are designed by doctors and nutrition leads at Atmabodh. Sattvik (sāttvika) nutrition emphasises fresh, seasonal, minimally processed vegetarian foods prepared with care. We personalise this framework to your constitution (prakriti), current imbalance (vikriti), schedule, and cultural preferences. So it’s realistic, enjoyable, and sustainable. The Sattvik Diet Treatment at Atmabodh supports lifestyle change and well‑being. It does not replace medical diagnosis or treatment. Please continue prescribed medicines and consult your physician for illness management. Why choose Sattvik Diet at Atmabodh? Doctor‑supervised & personalised plans aligned to digestion (agni), appetite rhythm, and goals. Gentle on the gut: warm, easy‑to‑digest meals that reduce heaviness and bloating. Steady energy & mood via balanced plates and mindful meal timing. Simple, practical recipes using local, seasonal ingredients. Integrative support with Yoga Therapy, breathwork, and Ayurvedic therapies when indicated. Who can benefit? Digestive system: acidity, heaviness, irregular bowels, post‑illness appetite reset. Metabolic support: sustainable weight management, cravings control, steady glucose. Cardio‑metabolic: blood pressure friendly rhythms (low‑sodium, potassium rich, minimally processed). Nervous system: anxiety, overdrive, poor sleep—focus on calming, routine‑building meals. Women’s health: menstrual comfort, perimenopause support (warmth, mineral‑rich foods). Skin & hair: hydration, micronutrients, and oils that support skin barrier. Suitability and pacing are individual; see Safety for medical considerations. Core Sattvik principles Fresh, warm, light‑to‑moderate meals; avoid very cold/icy foods. Regular meal rhythm: 3 structured meals; optional light snack if truly hungry. Mindful spice: cumin, coriander, fennel, turmeric, ginger, black pepper in moderation. Fats: small amounts of ghee or cold‑pressed oils (sesame/groundnut/mustard/coconut as suited). Proteins: mung/masoor/toor dal, kala chana/rajma (well soaked & cooked), paneer/curd (if tolerated), millets. Grains: hand‑polished rice, whole wheat/roti, millets (little/barnyard/foxtail), poha, daliya. Vegetables: mostly seasonal, cooked; raw salads only if digestion tolerates well. Fruits: seasonal, ripe, eaten alone or away from heavy meals. Fluids: warm water, herbal infusions (jeera/ajwain/fennel), thin buttermilk (spiced), coconut water (as suited). Preferably avoid: ultra‑processed foods, excessive chilli/garlic, onion (traditional sattvik avoidance, optional), alcohol, tobacco, energy drinks, refined sugar excess. What happens in your consult? Case‑taking: digestion, appetite, bowel rhythm, sleep, energy, stress, labs/diagnoses, medicines. Assessment: constitution & imbalance mapping; food tolerances; kitchen constraints. Education: portion cues, cooking methods, meal timing, mindful eating. Follow‑ups: adjust for symptoms, cravings, schedule, and lab‑guided goals. Sample one‑day Sattvik plan Morning (on waking): warm water; 4–5 soaked almonds or raisins. Breakfast: vegetable moong chilla with mint chutney orpoha with peas & peanuts; herbal tea. Mid‑morning (optional): seasonal fruit (papaya/guava/apple) or thin spiced buttermilk. Lunch: khichdi (moong + rice/millet) with ghee; lightly spiced veg (lauki/tori/tinda); cucumber‑mint raita. Evening: jeera‑fennel infusion; 1 small handful trail mix (roasted chana + seeds) if hungry. Dinner (lighter than lunch): mixed veg stew with millets/soft rotis; paneer/tofu bhurji if extra protein needed. Pre‑bed: golden milk with pinch of nutmeg (only if suited) or warm water. Portion cue: ½ plate vegetables, ¼ grains/millet, ¼ protein + 1–2 tsp ghee/oil. Therapeutic tracks (choose with your clinician) Weight & cravings reset: higher‑protein dals, millet rotation, fixed snack windows, fibre‑rich veg. Gut calm & bloat care: simple khichdi days, low gas‑forming veg, asafoetida/ginger, slow eating. Sugar‑steady plan: pair carbs with protein/fat, low‑GI millets, portioned fruit, early dinners. BP & heart‑ease: low sodium, potassium‑rich veg, nuts/seeds measured, calm evening routine. Sleep & stress: warm evening meals, magnesium‑rich foods (seeds/greens), caffeine limits, breathwork. Women’s cycles: iron‑/calcium‑supportive foods, warming spices, meal timing to energy. Kitchen & cooking methods Soak legumes/grains; cook till soft; skim excess foam for easier digestion. Prefer steaming, stewing, pressure cooking, sautéing over deep‑frying. Temper spices lightly; avoid burning masala. Use rock salt; add lemon/fermented options for flavour without excess salt. Store leftovers safely; prefer fresh. If needed, refrigerate and reheat once only. Mindful eating habits Sit, slow down, and chew thoroughly. Eat until comfortably satisfied (not stuffed). Keep main meals device‑free; step away for 10–15 mindful breaths if stressed. Maintain 12–13 hours gentle overnight fasting window unless medically contraindicated. Safety & medical considerations Diabetes/thyroid/BP/cardiac: plans coordinated with your physician; no abrupt carb restriction. Pregnancy/lactation: higher‑calorie, micronutrient‑dense variants; avoid herbs not advised. Kidney/liver conditions: protein, potassium, and fluid tailored by doctor. Lactose/gluten intolerance: curd/paneer/wheat substitutes (plant milks, millets, rice, lentils). Eating disorders: this program is not a replacement for specialised care.
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Panchakarma
Classical Ayurvedic cleansing and restoration physician‑supervised, personalised, and gentle. Panchakarma at Atmabodh is a carefully sequenced program that helps release accumulated ama (metabolic waste), calm aggravated doshas, and reset digestion (agni). Every plan is doctor‑led, adapted to your constitution and current state, and coordinated with your ongoing medical care when required. Panchakarma supports well‑being and lifestyle change. It does not replace medical diagnosis or treatment. Suitability is confirmed only after clinical assessment. Who is it for? Digestive & metabolic balance: heaviness, bloating, irregular appetite, sluggishness. Musculoskeletal comfort: stiffness, recurrent aches, postural tension. Skin & scalp support: dryness/roughness, oil imbalance, seasonal flares (as advised). Stress, sleep & mind: restlessness, fatigue, shallow sleep, overdrive. Respiratory ease: seasonal congestion, head–neck load; post‑illness convalescence (only with clearance). Women’s health routines: peri‑menopause transitions, cycle comfort (timed away from menstruation). Eligibility is case‑specific; some conditions are contraindicated (see Safety). What are the “Five Actions”? Vamana(therapeutic emesis) – selected kapha presentations. Virechana(purgation) – guided elimination for pitta‑dominant states. Basti(medicated enema) – anuvāsana (oil), niruha/kashāya (decoction), matra (micro‑dose). Nasya(nasal therapy) – for head–neck pathways, preceded by local prep. Raktamokshana(blood‑letting) – rarely indicated; specialist‑only, strict protocols. Not everyone receives all five; your physician selects the minimum effective pathway. How it works – the three phases Pūrva‑karma (Preparation) Snehana (Oleation): internal ghee/oil titration (if indicated) + external abhyanga. Swedana (Fomentation): steam/heat to soften tissues and mobilise doshas. Diet prep: light, warm, easy‑to‑digest meals; reduction of stimulants. Pradhāna‑karma (Main procedure) The chosen action (e.g., virechana, basti) performed on the medically optimal day. Close monitoring of vitals, comfort, and response. Paśchāt‑karma (Recovery & Rasāyana) Samsarjana‑krama: stepwise diet progression from thin gruels to normal meals. Gentle routine, rest, and targeted rejuvenation. Pre‑program preparation (what we do together) Clinical history, vitals, and relevant labs (as advised). Explain what to expect, precautions, and consent. Set a realistic schedule (typically 10–21+ days depending on goals and responses). Plan for lighter work/social load during intensive days. A typical day during Panchakarma (illustrative) Quiet morning start → vitals & doctor check‑in. Abhyanga (warm oil application) → Swedana (steam) as pre‑procedure. Main procedure on indicated days (e.g., virechana or basti); otherwise supportive care. Simple, warm meals at set times; hydration guidance. Rest, gentle walks, breath‑led relaxation; screen and stimulation kept low. Diet & recovery – Samsarjana‑Krama(post‑procedure) Stage 1: thin rice gruel (peya/kanji). Stage 2: thicker gruel (vilepi). Stage 3: soft rice + light lentils/vegetables (yavāgu/khichri‑style). Stage 4: gradual return to regular, warm, fresh meals. Spices, oils, and portions are adjusted case‑by‑case. No fasting or extremes unless prescribed. Safety, eligibility & contraindications Physician‑reviewed contraindications may include: pregnancy, active infection/fever, uncontrolled BP/diabetes, severe anemia, active ulcers, recent surgery, frailty, acute psychiatric crises. Medications are not stopped or altered without your treating doctor’s advice. Informed consent; hygienic protocols; vitals monitoring when indicated. We coordinate with your physician upon request. What you may notice over time Lighter digestion, clearer appetite cues, reduced abdominal discomfort. Ease and suppleness in joints and soft tissue. Calmer mind, steadier energy, improved sleep quality. Skin comfort and scalp balance. A renewed baseline for sustainable lifestyle change. Timelines vary. Many guests observe a shift within 2–4 weeks with adherence to guidance. Related Therapies Oleation & fomentation Abhyanga (whole‑body oiling) Snehapāna (measured internal oleation, if indicated) Swedana (steam/sudation) Head–neck & mind‑calming Shirodhara / Takradhara Shiroabhyanga (head–neck oiling) Nasya (also one of the five, used in specific plans) Localized applications Kati/Grīva/Jānu/Uro Basti (warm oil pooling) Pichu (oil‑soaked pad) Kizhi (Potli) (herbal bolus compress) Udvartana (herbal powder rub) Lepam (herbal paste packs) Recovery & rejuvenation Rasāyana guidance (diet, routine, sleep hygiene, gentle movement) Breath‑led relaxation / Yoga Nidra
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Naturopathy
Drug‑sparing, lifestyle‑centered care that helps your body’s innate healing—gentle, practical, and doctor‑supervised. Naturopathy at Atmabodh focuses on restoring balance through non‑invasive methods: therapeutic diet, water and heat applications, mud therapy, movement, rest, and routine. Plans are personalised to your constitution, goals, and current health status, and coordinated with your medical care when required. Naturopathy supports well‑being and lifestyle change. It does not replace medical diagnosis or emergency care. Please continue prescribed medicines and consult your physician for illnesses. Why choose Naturopathy at Atmabodh? Doctor‑informed, therapist‑delivered protocols with clear goals and safety checks. Personalised sequencing of diet, hydrotherapy, mud, rest, and gentle activity. Integrative options with Ayurveda, Yoga Therapy, Physiotherapy, and Acupuncture as needed. Measured & gentle—we prioritise comfort, pacing, and sustainable habits. Clear take‑home guidance so your results continue beyond the center. Who can benefit? Digestive balance: bloating, sluggish bowels, acidity tendency (non‑acute). Metabolic support: sustainable weight management habits and energy stability. Stress & sleep: overdrive, poor sleep quality, fatigue. Skin comfort: dryness/irritation support with routine, hydration, and diet simplicity. Musculoskeletal ease: stiffness, posture‑related aches (alongside physio/yoga as indicated). Cardio‑metabolic lifestyle care: BP/sugar rhythm support (doctor‑coordinated). Women’s health: menstrual comfort, perimenopause routines (timing‑aware). Suitability is individual; certain conditions are contraindicated (see Safety). What happens in your consult? Case‑taking: digestion/sleep/stress, appetite/bowels, work routine, medical history and labs. Assessment: hydration, temperature tolerance, skin and tissue feel, posture/movement basics. Plan design: diet framework, hydro/mud applications, rest schedule, gentle movement, breathwork. Education: why each element matters, pacing, and what to expect. Follow‑ups: refine frequency/intensity based on response. Therapies you may receive Hydrotherapy (water & temperature applications) Sitz bath (cool/warm/contrast) for pelvic/abdominal circulation. Spinal bath / spinal spray to soothe back and nervous system. Foot/arm baths for local circulation and calming. Jet/whirlpool (as available) for myofascial relaxation. Fomentation (hot packs/steam) and contrast applications for tissue ease. Packs & compresses Abdominal/chest/throat packs (warm or cool) for comfort and rhythm. Wet sheet/partial wraps for systemic calming (used selectively). Mud therapy Local mud packs (abdomen/eyes/joints) to cool, soothe, and draw heat. Full/partial mud application (as indicated) followed by gentle wash. Dietary & routine care Sattvik diet templates, hydration rhythms, meal timing, mindful eating. Rest & sleep hygiene, sunlight exposure (heliotherapy as suited). Movement & mind‑body Yoga Therapy (gentle mobility, breathwork), walking, relaxation practices. All therapies are customised to comfort, season, and safety. Not every modality suits every person. Daily flow (typical) Morning check‑in → vitals & plan review. Light movement/breath‑led warm‑up. Scheduled hydro/mud applications. Simple, warm meals at fixed times. Afternoon rest; short walk; relaxation. Early, light dinner; evening wind‑down. Diet & lifestyle pillars Regular meals: warm, fresh, minimally processed foods. Hydration: warm water/herbal infusions; avoid extremes. Gentle movement daily; avoid overexertion during intensive days. Screen & stimulant limits in the evening. Sunlight & fresh air exposure as suited. Safety & contraindications Physician‑reviewed contraindications may include: pregnancy (certain applications), uncontrolled BP/diabetes, acute infections/fever, severe anemia, recent surgery, active ulcers, frailty, significant cardiac/renal/hepatic disease. Temperature extremes and long fasting are not used without medical clearance. Medications are not changed by therapists; coordinate with your doctor. Hygiene, consent, and comfort checks are standard; vitals monitored when indicated. What you may notice over time Lighter digestion and steadier appetite cues. Improved sleep onset and morning freshness. Reduced soft‑tissue tension and easier movement. Calmer mood and better stress tolerance. A practical routine you can continue at home. Timelines vary. Many guests observe change within 3–7 days when plans are followed.
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Yoga Therapy
Gentle, evidence‑informed practices tailored to your body, breath, and life. Yoga Therapy at Atmabodh blends classical yogic wisdom with modern therapeutic insights. Each session is personalised focusing on breath, mindful movement, and relaxation to help you manage symptoms, build resilience, and restore ease. Why choose Yoga Therapy? Personalised: One‑to‑one care plans based on your goals, abilities, and health history. Whole‑person approach: Works on body, breath, mind, emotions, and daily routines. Safe & gradual: Gentle progressions with options for pain, fatigue, or limited mobility. Integrative: Complements medical treatment and physiotherapy; we coordinate when needed. Practical: Short home practices you can realistically maintain. Yoga Therapy supports your healing journey but does not replace medical care. Please consult your physician for diagnosis and treatment. Who can benefit? Musculoskeletal: Back/neck pain, knee/shoulder issues, postural strain, arthritis. Stress & sleep: Anxiety, burnout, insomnia, overwhelm. Respiratory: Asthma, breathlessness, long‑COVID recovery (post‑medical clearance). Women’s health: Menstrual discomfort, perimenopause symptoms, prenatal/postnatal support. Digestive & metabolic: Indigestion, IBS, lifestyle support for diabetes and hypertension. Neurological & nervous system: Tension headaches, migraine, high reactivity/sensitivity. What happens in a session? Brief check‑in: Current symptoms, energy, mood, medications, red flags. Breath‑led movement: Gentle, pain‑free ranges to mobilise joints and release tension. Stability work: Core and postural support using slow, mindful strengthening. Nervous system down‑shift: Breathwork, guided relaxation, or Yoga Nidra. Mindfulness: Simple focus practices to build present‑moment awareness. Home plan: 10–20 minute routine with clear steps (video/handout provided). Typical session length: 60 minutes (first visit 75–90 minutes for assessment). How it works (in simple steps) Initial assessment – health history, movement screen, breathing patterns, goals. Personalised plan – curated postures, breath ratios, relaxation, daily habits.
View Treatment →FAQs
Q: What is GERD according to Ayurveda?
In Ayurveda, GERD is linked to aggravated Pitta dosha, causing excess heat, acidity, and upward movement of stomach acids.
Q: Can Ayurveda cure GERD permanently?
Ayurveda aims to address the root cause by balancing doshas, improving digestion, and making lifestyle changes, which can provide long-term relief.
Q: What Ayurvedic remedies help in GERD?
Herbs like Licorice (Yashtimadhu), Amla, Shatavari, and Aloe Vera juice are often recommended along with Pitta-pacifying diets.
Q: How long does Ayurvedic treatment take for GERD?
Relief may be seen within weeks, but complete balance and healing can take 2–3 months depending on severity.
Q: Which foods should be avoided in GERD?
Spicy, oily, fried, fermented, sour, and acidic foods should be avoided. Caffeine and alcohol are also discouraged.
Q: Is GERD treatment in Ayurveda safe?
Yes, when guided by a qualified Ayurvedic doctor, treatments are natural, safe, and have minimal side effects.
Q: Can yoga help with GERD?
Yes, gentle yoga postures like Vajrasana, Pawanmuktasana, and breathing exercises can improve digestion and reduce reflux symptoms.
Q: Will I need Panchakarma for GERD?
In chronic or severe cases, Panchakarma therapies like Virechana (therapeutic purgation) may be advised to detox and balance Pitta.