Ulcerative colitis (UC)
Ulcerative colitis is chronic colon inflammation; Ayurveda links it to Vata-Pitta and weak digestion.
About Ulcerative colitis (UC)
Ulcerative colitis (UC) is an autoimmune chronic inflammatory bowel condition where the body's immune system mistakenly attacks the inner lining of the colon and rectum, leading to inflammation and ulcers in the large intestine (colon) and rectum. It is characterized by periods of flare-ups and remission. Ayurveda views ulcerative colitis as a result of imbalances in the doshas, particularly Vata (air), Pitta (fire) and digestive fire (Agni).
Common Causes
- Immune System Dysfunction: A misplaced immune response is thought to play a key role. The body's immune system mistakenly attacks the healthy tissues in the colon, leading to inflammation and ulcers.
- Genetics: genetics play a role in predisposing individuals to ulcerative colitis.
- Environmental Factors: Certain factors like diet, smoking, and gut bacteria composition might influence the development of UC.
Ayurvedic Perspective
Treatment and Management-
Dietary -
- Vegetables: Choose bitter and astringent veggies like dandelion greens and artichokes.
- Fruits: Go for antioxidant-rich fruits such as berries.
- Whole Grains: Opt for brown rice, quinoa, and millet.
- Limit: Avoid saturated fats, processed sugars, and refined carbs as they can worsen inflammation.
Therapies-
- Calming procedures like Shirodhara (pouring medicated oil on the forehead) or gentle abdominal massage might be used for relaxation and potential support.
- Virechana: This involves the use of herbal purgatives to eliminate excess Pitta and toxins from the body, promoting detoxification and improving digestive function.
- Basti: Basti therapy uses medicated enemas with herbal oils or decoctions to pacify Vata dosha, reduce inflammation, and nourish the colon lining.
- Hydrotherapy: Warm water enemas or colonics might be used for potential detoxification.
Home Remedies-
- Buttermilk: Drinking plain buttermilk or mixing it with cumin, ginger, and curry leaves can aid digestion and reduce inflammation.
- Ayurvedic herbs such as Kutaj (Holarrhena antidysenterica), Bilva (Aegle marmelos), and Aloe vera may be used to reduce inflammation, improve digestion, and heal the intestinal lining.
Common Symptoms
- Diarrhea
- Rectal Bleeding
- Abdominal Cramping and Pain
- Urgent Need to Have a Bowel Movement (Urgency)
- Incontinence
- Fatigue
- Weight Loss
Recommended Treatments
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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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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Ayurveda
Root‑cause, constitution‑based care guided by classical Ayurvedic principles, delivered safely by qualified doctors. At Atmabodh, Ayurveda is practised as a comprehensive health system that supports your body’s natural intelligence. We combine physician‑led assessment with personalised diet, lifestyle, and therapies, always gentle, realistic, and coordinated with your ongoing medical care when needed. Why choose Ayurveda at Atmabodh? Doctor‑led: Assessment and plan curated by our Ayurvedic physicians. Personalised: Tailored to your prakriti (constitution) and current vikriti (imbalance). Integrative: Safe alongside conventional treatment; we collaborate where appropriate. Structured programs: From simple lifestyle resets to full Panchakarma, with clear milestones. Quality & safety: Hygienic therapy suites, standardised oils and decoctions, trained therapists. Ayurveda at Atmabodh is designed to support well‑being. It does not replace diagnosis or treatment from your medical doctor. Who can benefit? Metabolic & lifestyle support: Energy balance, healthy digestion, routine building. Root‑cause, constitution‑based care guided by classical Ayurvedic principles, delivered safely by qualified doctors. At Atmabodh, Ayurveda is practised as a comprehensive health system that supports your body’s natural intelligence. We combine physician‑led assessment with personalised diet, lifestyle, and therapies, always gentle, realistic, and coordinated with your ongoing medical care when needed. Why choose Ayurveda at Atmabodh? Who can benefit? (system‑targeted bullets) Doctor‑led: Assessment and plan curated by our Ayurvedic physicians. Personalised: Tailored to your prakriti (constitution) and current vikriti (imbalance). Integrative: Safe alongside conventional treatment; we collaborate where appropriate. Structured programs: From simple lifestyle resets to full Panchakarma, with clear milestones. Quality & safety: Hygienic therapy suites, standardised oils and decoctions, trained therapists. Ayurveda at Atmabodh is designed to support well‑being. It does not replace diagnosis or treatment from your medical doctor. Metabolic & lifestyle support: Energy balance, healthy digestion, routine building. Musculoskeletal comfort: Joint stiffness, muscular tension, posture‑related strain. Stress & sleep: Nervous system down‑shift, rest quality, mental clarity. Skin & hair care: Scalp and skin nourishment routines. Women’s life stages: Menstrual comfort, perimenopause support, postnatal care. Respiratory ease: Seasonal sensitivity support and nasal hygiene. Timelines vary by individual and adherence; your doctor will set expectations transparently. What happens in an Ayurvedic consult? Case‑taking: Health history, digestion, sleep, stress, menstrual history (if applicable), medications. Examination: Pulse, tongue, skin, eyes, posture, and functional movement as relevant. Assessment: Constitutional mapping (prakriti) and current imbalance (vikriti). Plan: Diet guidance, daily routine (dinacharya), herbs/formulations if suitable, and therapy recommendations. Follow‑up: Review responses, titrate plan, and plan maintenance. Therapies you may receive Oleation & fomentation Abhyanga – warm medicated oil massage for nourishment and circulation. Pizhichil (Taila Dhara) – gentle pouring of warm oil with synchronized strokes. Swedana – steam/sudation post‑oleation for tissue softening and comfort. Head, neck & mind‑calming Shirodhara / Takradhara – steady stream over the forehead for deep relaxation. Shiroabhyanga – head, neck, and shoulder oiling. Karna Pūrana – warm oil ear therapy (as indicated). Localized therapeutic bastis Kati/Grīva/Jānu/Uro Basti – warm medicated oil pooling on low back/neck/knee/chest. Pichu – medicated oil‑soaked pad application. Cleansing & nasal care Nasya – nasal administration of medicated oils/decoctions, preceded by gentle face/neck prep. Skin & myofascial care Udvartana – herbal powder rub for lymphatic stimulation and skin vitality. Kizhi (Potli) – warm herbal bolus compress (dry/wet) for targeted areas. Lepam – herbal paste packs for local application. Netra Tarpana – eye‑area ghee pooling (specialist‑led only). Therapies are chosen and adapted by the physician based on safety, goals, and season. Panchakarma – the classical cleansing sequence Performed only after adequate preparation and medical clearance; not everyone requires all five. Vamana(therapeutic emesis) – indicated in select kapha conditions. Virechana(purgation) – guided elimination for pitta‑dominant states. Basti(medicated enemas) – kashaya, anuvasana, or matra varieties per case. Nasya(nasal therapy) – for head‑neck pathway care. Raktamokshana(blood‑letting) – rarely indicated; offered only where clinically justified and compliant. Phases: Purva‑karma (preparation/oleation), Pradhana‑karma (main procedure), Paschat‑karma (recovery, diet progression, lifestyle consolidation). Diet & lifestyle pillars (Dinacharya + Ahara) Meal rhythm: Regular timing; warm, freshly cooked, seasonal foods. Digestive care: Simple spices (as advised), mindful eating, adequate hydration. Sleep hygiene: Wind‑down routine, screen limits, consistent lights‑out. Movement: Gentle yoga/walking; avoid overexertion during intensive therapies. Self‑care: Oil application (abhyanga), nasal hygiene, tongue scraping—only as prescribed. Seasonal living (Ritucharya): Adjust routines, foods, and therapies to the climate. Safety & quality standards Physician review of contraindications: pregnancy, uncontrolled BP/diabetes, acute infections, recent surgery, severe anemia, active ulcers, etc. Informed consent; sterile/clean protocols; monitored vitals when needed. Herbal formulations are classical and doctor‑prescribed; we do not self‑dispense without assessment. We communicate with your treating physician upon request.
View Treatment →FAQs
Q: What is Ulcerative Colitis according to Ayurveda?
Ayurveda sees UC as a result of Vata-Pitta imbalance and impaired digestive fire (Agni).
Q: Can Ayurveda cure Ulcerative Colitis permanently?
Ayurveda focuses on long-term management, reducing flare-ups, and improving colon health naturally.
Q: What Ayurvedic herbs help in Ulcerative Colitis?
Common herbs include Kutaj, Bilva, Arjuna, and Musta for soothing inflammation and improving digestion.
Q: Are there dietary recommendations for UC in Ayurveda?
Yes, Ayurveda suggests a Pitta-pacifying diet—easy-to-digest, cooling, and anti-inflammatory foods.
Q: Is Panchakarma beneficial for Ulcerative Colitis?
Yes, mild detox and healing therapies like Basti (medicated enema) can help reduce symptoms.