Tag: Vata dosha

May 2, 2025

Prostate Cancer: Types, Symptoms & Ayurvedic Treatment

Abstract

Prostate issues are prevalent health conditions that mainly affect men, particularly as they age. The prostate is a small gland located beneath the bladder, responsible for producing seminal fluid. Common prostate concerns include benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), prostatitis, and prostate cancer. BPH, a non-cancerous enlargement of the prostate, often causes urinary problems such as frequent urination, weak urine flow, and incomplete bladder emptying. Prostatitis involves inflammation of the prostate, typically accompanied by pain, fever, and urinary discomfort. Prostate cancer, a malignant disease, is one of the most common cancers in men, with age, family history, and lifestyle being significant risk factors. In this article we will discuss this in detail and we will discuss its ayurvedic aspect and its management.

Prostate

Introduction

The prostate gland is a part of the male reproductive system and is roughly the size of a walnut. It is located at the base of the bladder, and the urethra, a tube that carries urine and semen through the penis, passes through it. The prostate produces an alkaline fluid that helps nourish sperm, which is eventually expelled from the body as semen during ejaculation. The prostate undergoes two primary phases of growth. The first occurs during puberty when sex hormones from the testes stimulate the gland to reach an average weight of about 20 grams. The second phase of growth starts in a man’s thirties.

Approximately 25% of the men aged 55 and older experience some form of prostate issue, with this number rising to 50% by the age of 70%. In the early stage of prostate condition, there may be no noticeable symptoms.

Types

There are various types of prostate disorder, including :

  1. Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH) : A noncancerous prostate enlargement that can cause symptoms like frequent urination, a weak urine stream, and difficulty in fully emptying the bladder.
  2. Prostatitis : Inflammation or infection of the prostate, It can lead to pain, fever, trouble urinating, and pelvic discomfort.
  3. Prostate Cancer : The growth of malignant cells in the prostate, it is the most common type of cancer in men, with symptoms that may include urinary problems and, in advanced cases, more severe signs of illness.
  4. Prostate Abscess : A pus-filled infection in the prostate, often due to bacteria, causing pain, fever, and issues with urination.
  5. Prostate Stones : Hard mineral deposits that form in the prostate, potentially causing pain, swelling, and urinary difficulties.

Causes

The cause of prostate disease can vary depending on the specific condition, but some common factors include :

Factors Affecting Prostate Health

  • Age – As men get older, the likelihood of developing prostate conditions, such as benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) or prostate cancer, increases.
  • Hormonal Changes – Hormones like testosterone can play a role in prostate growth and may contribute to conditions like BPH or prostate cancer.
  • Genetics – A family history of prostate problems, particularly prostate cancer, can increase the risk of developing similar issues.
  • Infections – Bacterial infections may lead to prostatitis, causing inflammation and pain in the prostate.
  • Inflammation – Chronic inflammation of the prostate can lead to prostatitis and may be related to autoimmune conditions or infections.
  • Diet and Lifestyle – A diet high in fat and low in vegetables, as well as lack of exercise, may increase the risk of prostate conditions like cancer. Obesity and smoking can also contribute.
  • Genetic Mutations – Specific mutations in genes like the BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes can increase the risk of developing prostate cancer.
  • Chemical Exposure – Prolonged exposure to certain chemicals, such as those in pesticides or industrial products, may increase the risk of prostate disease.
  • Sexual Activity – Frequent or unprotected sexual activity may increase the risk of infections leading to prostatitis.
  • Chronic Health Conditions – Other health problems, such as diabetes, may contribute to an increased risk of prostate issues.

Symptoms

The symptoms of prostate disease can vary depending on the type of condition, but common signs include:

Common Symptoms of Prostate Problems

  • Frequent Urination – A need to urinate more often, especially at night (nocturia).
  • Weak or Interrupted Urine Flow – Difficulty starting or maintaining a steady stream of urine.
  • Painful Urination – Discomfort or burning sensation while urinating.
  • Difficulty Emptying the Bladder – A feeling of incomplete bladder emptying after urination.
  • Blood in Urine or Semen – Presence of blood in the urine or semen, which may indicate infection or more serious conditions like cancer.
  • Pain in the Pelvic Area – Discomfort or aching in the lower abdomen, back, or pelvic region.
  • Painful Ejaculation – Discomfort or pain during or after sexual activity.
  • Erectile Dysfunction – Difficulty achieving or maintaining an erection, which may be related to prostate problems.
  • Fever and Chills – Common with prostatitis (inflammation or infection of the prostate).
  • Urgency to Urinate – A sudden, strong need to urinate, which may be difficult to control.

Diagnosis

The diagnosis of prostate disease involves several methods, combining medical history, physical exams, lab tests, and imaging procedures. Common diagnostic approaches include:

Common Diagnostic Tests for Prostate Conditions

  • Digital Rectal Exam (DRE) – A healthcare provider performs a physical exam by inserting a gloved finger into the rectum to check for any irregularities in the size, shape, or texture of the prostate.
  • Prostate-Specific Antigen (PSA) Test – A blood test that measures the level of PSA, a substance produced by the prostate. Higher levels may suggest BPH, prostatitis, or prostate cancer, though further testing is required for confirmation.
  • Urine Test (Urinalysis) – Analyzes a urine sample to detect signs of infection, blood, or other abnormalities that may indicate prostatitis or other prostate-related issues.
  • Transrectal Ultrasound (TRUS) – An ultrasound probe is gently inserted into the rectum to obtain images of the prostate, helping assess its size and detect irregularities or tumors.
  • Biopsy – If prostate cancer is suspected, small tissue samples may be taken from the prostate for microscopic examination.
  • Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) – Produces highly detailed images of the prostate and surrounding tissues, especially useful when cancer is suspected.
  • Cystoscopy – A thin tube with a camera is inserted through the urethra to examine the prostate and bladder for abnormalities.
  • Urodynamic Testing – Evaluates how well the bladder and urethra function to help identify conditions affecting urinary flow.
  • X-ray – May be used to check for bone involvement if there is concern that prostate cancer has spread.

Treatment

The treatment for prostate disease depends on the specific condition, its severity and the overall health of the patient. Its common treatment includes:

Treatment Options for Prostate Conditions

1. Medications

  • Alpha blockers
  • 5-alpha reductase inhibitors
  • Antibiotics
  • Pain relievers
  • Hormone therapy

2. Surgery

  • Transurethral Resection of the Prostate (TURP)
  • Prostatectomy
  • Laser surgery
  • Prostate biopsy

3. Radiation Therapy

  • External beam radiation
  • Brachytherapy

4. Cryotherapy

5. Chemotherapy

6. Lifestyle Changes

  • Dietary adjustments
  • Exercise
  • Fluid management

Ayurvedic Overview

In Ayurveda, Prostate problems are generally considered to be linked to imbalances in the body’s three doshas Vata, Pitta, Kapha. These imbalances can manifest as inflammation, enlargement and dysfunction of the prostate gland.

Vata Imbalance

Vata dosha governs movement, circulation and nerve function. When vata is imbalanced, it can lead to symptoms such as dryness, increased frequency of urination, difficulty in urination and weak urine flow which is common in BPH.

Pitta Imbalance

Pitta dosha controls metabolism, digestion and inflammation. An Imbalance in Pitta can lead to inflammation, heat and infection in the prostate, which contributes to conditions like prostatitis and swelling.

Kapha Imbalance

Kapha is responsible for structure, stability, and lubrication in the body. An imbalance in kapha can lead to excessive mucus, fluid retention and swelling, which may contribute to prostate enlargement (BPH). Excess Kapha can lead to sluggish urinary flow, difficulty in passing urine, and a feeling of incomplete emptying.

Herbal Remedies for prostate problem by Planet Ayurveda

Planet Ayurveda is a GMP certified ayurvedic company that offers a wide range of herbal formulation that helps to manage chronic conditions. All their formulations are prepared under the supervision of MD (Ayurveda) scholars. Planet Ayurveda’s formulations are 100% pure, herbal, and chemical free. They provide effective solutions for various health concerns. One of them is the Prostate CAre Pack for prostate problems.

Product description

1. Shilajit Capsule

This capsule is a standardized pure extract of Shilajit (Black Bitumen). Shilajit contains essential minerals, vitamins, and antioxidants. It also has properties like anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and adaptogenic. It is traditionally used to support hormonal balance, including testosterone levels. Since testosterone levels are linked to the prostate, it helps to maintain a healthy prostate.

Dosage: 1 capsule two times a day with warm water

2. Tribulus Power

This capsule is a standardized pure extract of Gokshura (Tribulus Terrestris). It promotes overall urinary health and helps to strengthen the urinary tract. It has antioxidant effects that help reduce oxidative stress and cellular damage, making it helpful in prostate-related problems.

Dosage: 2 capsules two times a day with warm water

3. Varunadi Vati

This tablet is a pure extract of Punarnava (Boerhavia Diffusa), Varun (Crataeva Nurvala), Gokshura (Tribulus Terrestris), and Shuddha Guggulu (Commiphora Mukul). All these herbs help support urinary health and reduce inflammation. Varunadi Vati has antioxidant properties that may help combat oxidative stress and protect cells from damage.

Dosage: 2 tablets two times a day with warm water

4. Kanchnaar Guggul

This tablet is a pure extract of Kanchnar Bark (Bauhinia Variegata), Amalaki (Emblica Officinalis), Haritaki (Terminalia Chebula), Bibhitaki (Terminalia Bellerica), and Varuna Bark (Crataeva Religiosa). It has the ability to support the lymphatic system, promote detoxification, and reduce inflammation. Kanchnaar Guggul helps detoxify the body and remove excess toxins, which may support overall prostate health.

Dosage: 2 tablets two times a day with warm water

5. Prostate Support

This tablet is a standardized pure extract of Gokshura (Tribulus Terrestris), Varun (Crataeva Nurvala), Kanchnaar (Bauhinia Variegata), Punarnava (Boerhavia Diffusa), and Saralghan (Pinus Roxburghii). This formulation helps enhance urine flow and support optimal prostate function. Herbs like Kanchnaar help control excess prostate growth and reduce inflammation, thereby helping to maintain the prostate gland.

Dosage: 2 tablets two times a day with warm water

Conclusion

In Conclusion , Ayurvedic treatment for prostate problems offers a comprehensive, holistic approach that targets the root cause of the condition by balancing the body’s Vata, Pitta and kapha dosha . Planet Ayurveda’s Prostate care pack helps to manage prostate problems by balancing the vata, pitta, and kapha. They help to reduce inflammation, swelling and prostate enlargement.

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February 19, 2025

Osteoarthritis & Joint Pain? Try These Powerful Ayurvedic Herbal Remedies

ABSTRACT

Bone and joint health is essential for the well-being of the bones and joints in your body. Bones provide structure and support, while joints allow movement. Keeping them healthy is important for staying active and pain-free as you age. This involves staying active, eating nutritious foods, and protecting your body from injuries to maintain strong bones and flexible joints. If bone and joint health are not properly maintained, it can lead to various problems, including Arthritis. Arthritis is a condition that involves inflammation of the joints, leading to pain, stiffness, and reduced movement. Over time, if joints are not cared for, they can undergo changes that result in arthritis. With age, the risk of arthritis also increases and if there are underlying comorbidities like diabetes mellitus, the risk gets higher.

Osteoarthritis, Joint pain, Inflammation, Cartilage degeneration, Bone health, Vata dosha, Ayurvedic herbs, Arthritis relief, Joint stiffness, Herbal remedies, Anti-inflammatory, Pain management, Calcium absorption, Ayurvedic treatment for Osteoarthritis, Causes of Osteoarthritis, Symptoms of Osteoarthritis, Herbal Remedies For Osteoarthritis

INTRODUCTION

Osteoarthritis is the most common type of arthritis, affecting millions of people worldwide. Osteoarthritis can damage any joint. Osteoarthritis is a degenerative disease. Most commonly it affects large joints in your body like, knees, hips and spine. In this, degenerative changes occur in joints and also synovial fluid is depleted. The joints are designed to bear the weight of the body and provide mobility. A joint consists of bones, cartilages, tendons, ligaments, synovial fluid, synovial membrane, bursae, and meniscus. Due to degeneration, the cartilage in joints breaks down, the synovial membrane gets inflamed and the synovial fluid gets depleted causing bones to rub together which causes friction in the joints. This leads to development of various symptoms like pain, swelling, stiffness, etc. Sometimes both knees are involved and sometimes only one is involved.

CAUSES/TRIGGERS OF OSTEOARTHRITIS

  1. Wear and Tear (Osteoarthritis): When bones and joints are not kept strong through physical activity and a balanced diet, the cartilage that cushions the ends of bones in the joints can wear away. This leads to bones rubbing against each other, causing pain, swelling, and stiffness.
  2. Injury and Stress: Not maintaining bone strength and joint flexibility can make your body more vulnerable to injuries. Repeated injuries or stress on a joint can lead to the development of arthritis over time.
  3. Being Overweight: Extra weight puts stress on joints like the knees and hips, which can lead to osteoarthritis. BMI of over 30 keeps you at a greater risk.
  4. Repetitive Stress: Repetitive movements or stress on a joint from work or sports can lead to osteoarthritis.
  5. Lack of Nutrients: Nutrients like calcium, vitamin D, and omega-3 fatty acids are essential for bones.
  6. Aging: The risk of osteoarthritis increases with age.
  7. Genetics: A family history of osteoarthritis can increase the risk of developing it. Few genetic conditions like hemochromatosis, Wilson’s disease, and Ehlers-Danlos syndrome can also predispose this.
  8. Joint Deformities: Some people are born with malformed joints or defective cartilage.
  9. Joint Injuries: Injuries to the joints, such as fractures, strains, or cartilage damage, can increase the risk of osteoarthritis.
  10. Metabolic Diseases: Some metabolic diseases, like diabetes, can increase the risk of osteoarthritis.
  11. Sex: Women are more likely to develop osteoarthritis than men, especially after age 55.

SYMPTOMS OF OSTEOARTHRITIS

  • Joint tenderness
  • Weakness and muscle wasting (loss of muscle bulk)
  • Joints appearing slightly larger
  • Limited range of movement in your joints
  • A grating or crackling sound (crepitus) or sensation in your joints
  • Increased pain and stiffness when you have not moved your joints for a while

SIGNS OF OSTEOARTHRITIS

  • Bony enlargement, crepitus, and decreased range of motion
  • Tenderness on palpation at the joint line
  • Pain on joint motion
  • Commonly weight-bearing joints are involved, i.e., knees and hips
  • Sometimes hands are involved, particularly the proximal & distal interphalangeal joints
  • Base of the thumb (first metacarpal joint) is sometimes involved in OA and can even become swollen and be mistaken for wrist involvement

DIAGNOSIS OF OSTEOARTHRITIS

  • X-Ray findings: include osteophyte formation, joint space narrowing, and cysts.
  • MRI: helps to find out changes in cartilage, periarticular structures, and edema in subchondral bone.

TREATMENT/LIFESTYLE ADJUSTMENTS

  • NSAIDs for pain control
  • Steroid injections
  • Use of ortho-friendly footwear
  • Exercises for maintaining joint mobility
  • Weight management
  • Surgery: partial knee replacement, total knee replacement, or joint knee replacement
  • Cartilage grafting can be done with the help of healthy cartilage harvested from the body of the patient only

AYURVEDIC OVERVIEW

Acharya Charaka (Father of Medicine in Ayurveda) has explained about Osteoarthritis which can be correlated to Sandhivata which is explained under Vata-vyadhi Adhaya (diseases due to vitiated Vata dosha) in Chikitsa Sthana. The term Sandhivata is derived from “Sandhi” and “Vata” which means when Vata dosha lodges in Sandhi i.e.,joints causing swelling, pain, restriction of joint movements and other symptoms. Sandhivata commonly affects weight-bearing joints of the body like, knee joint, hip joint.

वातपूर्णदृतिस्पर्शः शोथः सन्धिगतेऽनिले |
प्रसारणाकुञ्चनयोः प्रवृत्तिश्च सवेदना ||

Ancient Reference – [Ch. Chi. 28/37]

In the above Shloka, Acharya Charaka has explained about the symptoms of Sandhivata (Osteoarthritis) stating, when vitiated Vata dosha gets accumulated in joints, it leads to a painful feeling of presence of air within joints i.e., crepitus, swelling, along with painful flexion & extension of joints.

In osteoarthritis as there is asthi dhatu kshaya which results in aggravated vata dosha and thus results in pain and crepitus in the joint.

बाह्याभ्यन्तरतः स्नेहैरस्थिमज्जगतं जयेत् ||

Ancient Reference – [Ch. Chi. 28/93]

Both Bahya (external) and Abhyantar (internal) Snehan are of utmost importance in the treatment of Sandhigata Vata. Bahya Snehan in the form of Janu Basti (Knee basti i.e., a small pool is prepared around knee with black gram flour in which hot medicated oils are poured), Abhyanga (hot oil massage), Dhara (stream of hot medicated oil is poured on knee) can be done.For Abhyantar Snehan, Snehapana with various medicated Ghrita can be done in accordance with the aggravated doshas and the presenting symptoms.

Abhyantara (internal) snehana is helpful in replenishing “meda dhatu” and then subsequently “asthi dhatu” and “majja dhatu” get replenished. Use of “Mahatikta ghrita” is indicated for internal snehan. Use of Janu Basti (Knee basti i.e., a small pool is prepared around the knee with black gram flour in which hot medicated oils are poured) with medicated oils like Ksheerbala tailam is also indicated in osteoarthritis for pain relieving.

Also, the use of “Pinda Swedana” is indicated in painful joints. In this the medicinal paste is prepared with the help of Eranda (Ricinus communis) patra (castor leaves), Nirgundi leaves along with medicated oil or ghee. The paste is heated and then applied to painful joints.

AYURVEDIC HERBS BENEFICIAL IN OSTEOARTHRITIS

1. GUGGUL/COMMIPHORA MUKUL

Acharya Charaka has said guggul to be “medo-anilaharm” i.e., it balances vata dosha and is also helpful in reducing cholesterol levels, thus helpful in obesity. It is also tridosha shamak i.e., balances all the three doshas. Madhur (sweet) rasa balances Vata Dosha, Kashaya (astringent) rasa balances Pitta Dosha and Tikt (bitter) rasa balances Kapha Dosha. It also has “vran-ropan” (wound healing) properties, thus it helps in relieving joint inflammation.

2. NIRGUNDI/VITEX NEGUNDO

It consists of various alkaloids like phenol, vitricine, dulcitol etc. It is a potent Vata and Kapha dosha shamak as it is Laghu (lightness), Rooksha (dry) qualities and Katu (pungent), Tikta (bitter). It is also “Rujapaha” i.e., it relieves pain and thus is useful in arthritic pain.

3. SHALLAKI/BOSWELLIA SERRATA

Its essential oil is called “frankenstein oil”. Shallaki is rich in Glucosamines. These are amino-acids that have anti-inflammatory action that help in relieving joint pain and increase joint mobility and flexibility. It balances Kapha and Pitta dosha as it has laghu (light), Rooksha (dry) properties. Externally Upanaha swedana (application of hot paste) with shallaki is recommended to use in joint pains.

4. ASTHI-SHRINKHALA/CISSUS QUADRANGULARIS

An ancient ayurvedic saying states “यत्र आकृति तत्र गुणा वसन्ति” meaning when something is similar to any body organ or structure, its functioning will be beneficial for that particular body organ. So in this case, Asthi-shrinkhala has a similar appearance to structure of bone and joints, & it is indeed very efficient for strengthening of bones and joints. It is also called “had-jod”. It balances Vata dosha as it is of Madhur (sweet) rasa and Kapha dosha as it has Laghu (light), Rooksha (dry) qualities and Ushna veerya (hot potency).The extract from this plant is rich in calcium ions. Had-jod is also “Bhagna Sandhankara” (helpful in healing broken joints or bones) and “Balya” (helpful in strengthening bones).

HERBAL REMEDIES FOR OSTEOARTHRITIS BY PLANET AYURVEDA

Planet Ayurveda provides a combination of ayurvedic herbs for the management of OSTEOARTHRITIS. With the use of above-mentioned herbs, planet Ayurveda has compiled the “Osteoarthritis Care Pack”. This pack includes Bone Support, Joint Aid Plus, Coral Calcium Complex and Lakshadi Guggul. All the Planet Ayurveda medicines are 100% natural, vegetarian, additive free, chemical & preservative free and without any side effects. With ayurvedic intervention, Osteoarthritis can be managed efficiently and thus, increasing the quality of life.

PRODUCTS DESCRIPTION

Osteoarthritis, Joint pain, Inflammation, Cartilage degeneration, Bone health, Vata dosha, Ayurvedic herbs, Arthritis relief, Joint stiffness, Herbal remedies, Anti-inflammatory, Pain management, Calcium absorption, Ayurvedic treatment for Osteoarthritis, Causes of Osteoarthritis, Symptoms of Osteoarthritis, Herbal Remedies For Osteoarthritis

1. BONE SUPPORT

These capsules are prepared from the standardized extract of herbs like Shudha Laksha (Laccifer lacca), Hadjod (Cissus quadrangularis), Sehjan (Moringa oleifera), Arjun (Terminalia arjuna), Mukta (Compound of Pearl Calcium) and Praval pishti (Corallium rubrum). These are helpful in increasing calcium absorption as well as increasing bone density. In addition, the formulation helps in strengthening the cartilages as well and improves joint mobility. Hadjod in it enhances bone density, and Arjuna helps in better circulation. Also Praval Pishti and Mukta increase the natural calcium levels in the body.

Dosage: 1 capsule twice a day with plain water after meals.

2. JOINT AID PLUS

These capsules are prepared from the standardized extract from the herbs like, Shallaki (Boswellia serrata), Guggul (Commiphora mukul), Nirgundi (Vitex Negundo), Shunthi (Zingiber officinale), and Ashwagandha (Withania Somnifera). These herbs are helpful in reducing inflammation and strengthening of joint and bones. Guggul and Shallaki are helpful in reducing characteristic pricking pain which is increased on movement by pacifying the aggravated Vata dosha. Moreover, the presence of Shunthi in it aids digestion and Ashwagandha provides strength to the muscles and ligaments. This formulation has given effective results in almost all types of joint related conditions.

Dosage: 1 capsule twice a day with plain water after meals.

3. CORAL CALCIUM COMPLEX

These capsules are prepared from the standardized extract from the herbs like, Shallaki (Boswellia serrata), Guggul (Commiphora mukul), Nirgundi (Vitex Negundo), Shunthi (Zingiber officinale), and Ashwagandha (Withania Somnifera).These herbs are helpful in reducing inflammation and strengthening of joint and bones. Guggul and Shallaki are helpful in reducing characteristic pricking pain which is increased on movement by pacifying the aggravated Vata dosha. Moreover, the presence of Shunthi in it aids digestion and Ashwagandha provides strength to the muscles and ligaments. This formulation has given effective results in almost all types of joint related conditions.

Dosage: 1 capsule twice a day with plain water after meals.

4. LAKSHADI GUGGUL

Lakshadi Guggul is a classical preparation that is available in the form of capsules. It is prepared with the standardized extract of Laksha (Laccifer lacca), Asthisambharaka (Cissus quadrangularis), Arjuna (Terminalia arjuna), Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera), Nagabala (Grewia populifolia) and Guggul (Commiphora mukul). The Guggul and Ashwagandha are helpful in balancing the vitiated Vata dosha thus relieving pain. The Arjuna enhances the blood circulation. As it is also a rich source of calcium, it accelerates the healing process in the joints. Asthi shrinkhala is used to soothe the ligaments and for increasing the bone density.

Dosage: 1 tablet twice a day with plain water after meals.

CONCLUSION

To prevent arthritic changes, it’s important to maintain good bone health through regular physical activity, a balanced diet, staying hydrated, and avoiding excess strain or injury to your joints. Timely intervention can help slow down the progression of the disease and increase the chances of achieving positive results. The treatment protocol depends on the involvement of doshas. Selection of drugs for treatment of Sandhivata on the basis of its Kriyalakala (stage of disease manifestation in the body) can provide accurate results. Early diagnosis of Sandhivata such as through symptoms or screenings, can lead to better treatment and a higher chance of successful recovery.

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