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July 23, 2024

Ayurvedic Treatment Of Nephrotic Syndrome

ABSTRACT

Kidneys in the human body are complex structures which help in removing waste products from the body. It helps in the purification of waste products from the blood and ultimately produces urine. This purification process helps maintain levels of many substances in the blood. The kidneys also help in maintaining the blood pressure of the body. Kidneys are the main part of the urinary system which filters the fluid in the body and in this way, it helps in maintaining levels of water, minerals and salts in the body. Kidneys also play a major role in the production of active forms of Vitamin D which further helps in maintaining bone health. Here, in this article, we are going to study one of the kidney disorders i.e. Nephrotic Syndrome. As the name describes, it is a syndrome which means a group of symptoms. Nephrotic syndrome can be described as a group of symptoms produced when the kidneys in the body are not working properly. Now, we are going to study in detail about Nephrotic syndrome. Let’s start!

Nephrotic Syndrome

INTRODUCTION

Nephrotic syndrome is a kidney disorder in which there is a loss of a large amount of proteins through the urine. Kidneys are complex structures which contain a large amount of blood vessels (Glomeruli) which help in filtering the waste and excess water from the blood. These Glomeruli help in retaining the proteins and cells from the blood as they are used by the body to function normally. In Nephrotic Syndrome these small blood vessels are damaged which affects the normal process of filtration. Damaged glomeruli are unable to filter proteins in the blood and result in leakage of proteins into the urine. This massive loss of proteins in the urine leads to hypoalbuminemia and many other complications. This disease leads to many other serious health issues. Nor in this article, do we elaborate on a detailed study of its causes, signs, symptoms, diagnosis, diets, home remedies and Ayurvedic overview of this disease. Also study of its Ayurvedic management and Herbal remedies by Planet Ayurveda. Let’s start!

CAUSES OF NEPHROTIC SYNDROME

Damage to the glomeruli is the primary cause of nephrotic syndrome. There are many other diseases which ultimately lead to nephrotic syndrome. Here are some of the common diseases that cause nephrotic syndrome

  • Amyloidosis is a condition when protein amyloid builds up in the body’s organs and tissues
  • Diabetes-related nephropathy is a condition in which diabetes leads to damage nerves of the kidneys
  • Lupus is an autoimmune condition in which there is inflammation and pain in the whole body including the kidneys
  • Membranous nephropathy is a condition when the immune system of the body attacks the membranes of the kidneys which helps in the filtration process
  • Focal segmental glomerulosclerosis affects glomeruli and causes scarring on it
  • Some medications such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory disease
  • Any allergic reaction
  • HIV, Hepatitis B and C infections
  • Genetic disorders

The cause (निदान) of Nephrotic syndrome according to Ayurvedic texts are as follows

आस्यासुखम् स्वप्नसुखम् दधिनि ग्राम्योदकानूपरसाः पयान्सि |
नवान्न्पानम् गुडवेकृतं च प्रमेहहेतुः कफकृच्च सर्वम् ||
(चरक संहिता चिकित्सास्थान 6/4)

The above text of Charak Samhita denotes that Nephrotic Syndrome is caused by consuming excess dairy products like milk ( दधिनि ), not exercising or not doing any physical work (आस्यासुखम् स्वप्नसुखम्), consuming heavy (that increases Kapha) food, jaggery (गुडवेकृतं) and consumption of new grains ( नवान्न्पानम्).

SIGNS OF NEPHROTIC SYNDROME

Some of the common and primary signs of nephrotic syndrome are as follows

  • Edema
  • Weight gain
  • Foamy urine

SYMPTOMS OF NEPHROTIC SYNDROME

A Nephrotic syndrome is a group of many types of symptoms that can be included as follows

  • Swelling that includes the face, ankles, feet, eyes and abdomen
  • Weight gain or weight loss due to fluid retention
  • Frothy urine due to excess loss or proteins through urine
  • Fatigue
  • Muscle wasting
  • Loss of appetite
  • Abdominal pain
जलोपमं चेक्षुरसोपमम् वा घनम् घनम् चोपरि विप्रसन्नं |
(चरक संहिता चिकित्सास्थान 6/9)

According to the above text, in the condition of Nephrotic Syndrome the urine of the patient becomes frothy, concentrated and dense.

DIAGNOSIS OF NEPHROTIC SYNDROME

Diagnosis of the Nephrotic syndrome can be done by following tests

  • Complete Blood Count which helps in finding the levels of protein and albumins
  • A Urine test helps in finding out levels of proteins, blood and sugar in the urine. Also, it helps in estimating Albumin loss and sodium concentration
  • Kidney biopsy

AYURVEDIC OVERVIEW OF NEPHROTIC SYNDROME

A Nephrotic syndrome is a group of symptoms in which the kidney is directly affected. Due to damage to the Glomeruli, the kidney is unable to filter blood properly and as a result of this large amount of protein is excreted through urine. Damaged glomeruli lead to increased permeability of the glomerular basement membrane due to which protein excretion is high in the urine. In Ayurveda, there is no direct correlation of nephrotic syndrome to any specific disease or Roga. However, on comparing the main characteristics of a nephrotic syndrome like albuminuria and hyperlipidemia associated with oedema can be compared to Prameha and specifically to Sandrameha because albuminuria makes urine concentrated and dense. The dosha involved in this disease is Kapha, Vata dominating Tridosha and Dushyas are mutra, udaka, ojas and rasa. However, there is no direct correlation of nephrotic syndrome in Ayurveda but any disease can be managed by relating its symptoms and pathogenesis. Sandrameha is a subtype of Kaphaja prameha. Now let’s start a detailed study about the Ayurvedic management of Nephrotic syndrome.

DIET FOR NEPHROTIC SYNDROME

  • Fruits like apples, papaya, pomegranates, jamun, pears and other fibre fruits
  • Vegetables like pumpkin, cabbage, ginger, lettuce, broccoli, carrot, bottled gourd, bitter gourd and cauliflower
  • Black pepper, fennel, cardamom, coriander, mint and cumin should used in species
  • Avoid milk and milk products
  • Pulses like split pigeon peas, split chickpeas, kidney beans, yellow moong lentils and green grams
  • Whole grains and millet can be used

HOME REMEDIES FOR NEPHROTIC SYNDROME

  • Decoction of turmeric
  • Powder of seeds like pumpkin seeds, cucumber seeds, melon seeds and watermelon seeds can be taken
  • Sprouts of green gram and black gram are good sources of proteins and fibres
  • Mushrooms are known as a good source of plant proteins

TREATMENT IN NEPHROTIC SYNDROME

In Ayurvedic texts, the line of treatment for Nephrotic syndrome is as below

स्थूलः प्रमेही बलवानिहेकः कृशस्तथेक् परिदुर्बलचश् |
संबृहणं तत्र कृशस्य कार्यम् संशोधनम् दोषबलाधिकस्य ||
(चरक संहिता चिकित्सास्थान 6/15)

According to the above text of Charaka Samhita, patients with Nephrotic Syndrome may be obese or emaciated. So the line of treatment in both types of patients is different. Nourishing therapy to increase strength is given to weak or emaciated patients. In obese patients, the Doshas vitiated are expelled by Sanshodhan Chikitsa. Following are some of the Ayurvedic herbal formulations that can be given in the case of Nephrotic Syndrome

  • Madhvasav
  • Dantyasav
  • Amla juice mixed with honey and turmeric
  • Decoction of Patha (Cissampelos pareira), Vidanga (Embelia ribes), Arjuna (Terminalia arjuna) and Dhanvana (Grewia tiliaefolia) with honey.

HERBAL REMEDIES FOR Nephrotic Syndrome BY PLANET AYURVEDA

Planet Ayurveda offers a wide range of herbal medicines formed from all-natural herbs. All these herbal formulations are made up of highly efficient herbs with natural extracts. These formulations of Planet Ayurveda come in various forms like powders, tablets, capsules, decoctions etc. Planet Ayurveda promotes Ancient Ayurveda by using natural herbal in the formation of medicines that are mentioned in Ayurvedic texts. Here we are going to study one of the best herbal remedies of Planet Ayurveda which is the Nephrotic Syndrome care pack which is very useful treatment of the nephrotic syndrome in ayurveda & it is very effectively. This care pack consists of Mutrakrichantak churna, Curcumin capsules, Chandanadi Vati and Phyllanthus Niruri. Let’s start a detailed study of these products

  1. Mutrakrichantak Churna
  2. Curcumin Capsules
  3. Chandanadi Vati
  4. Phyllanthus Niruri


Nephrotic Syndrome Care Pack

PRODUCT DESCRIPTION

1. MUTRAKRICHANTAK CHURNA

This herbal formulation consists of ingredients like Varun (Crataeva nurvala), Bhumi Amla (Phyllanthus niruri), Gokshur (Tribulus terrestris), Kalmegh (Andrographis paniculata) and many more. These ingredients are very effective in the management of nephrotic syndrome. These herbs work as a function of kidney-supporting. It helps in relieving the symptoms of nephrotic syndrome.

Dosage : 1 teaspoonful twice a day with warm water

2. CURCUMIN CAPSULES

These capsules contain an active ingredient Curcumin (Curcuma longa) present in turmeric which is a very common and useful ingredient used in India. It helps in balancing all three doshas i.e. Vata, Pitta and Kapha. Turmeric is very useful in the management of nephrotic syndrome. It also helps in improving the immunity of the body.

Dosage : 2 capsules twice daily after meals with warm water.

3. CHANDANADI VATI

This herbal formulation contains Shveta Chandana (Santalum album), Maricha (Piper cubeba), Amalaki (Emblica officinalis) and many more. It is a classic herbal formulation which helps in the management of all types of urinary problems. It also helps in managing urinary infections and nephrotic syndrome.

Dosage : 2 tablets thrice a day after meals with warm water.

4. PHYLLANTHUS NIRURI

These herbal capsules contain the extract of Bhumi Amla (Phyllanthus niruri). These capsules are very effective in dealing with symptoms of nephrotic syndrome. It contains prophylactic activity and helps in controlling nephrotic syndrome.

Dosage : 2 capsules twice daily after meals with warm water.

CONCLUSION

Nephrotic syndrome is a group of various symptoms which occurs due to improper functioning of the kidneys. If diagnosed and proper treatment is given to the patient it helps in managing nephrotic syndrome. But it can lead to many serious issues if not treated properly. It can also lead to loss of life if not managed properly. So, it is necessary to take proper care of kidneys to avoid such types of conditions and their complications. In Ayurveda, there are a number of Ayurvedic herbs that are very useful in the management of nephrotic syndrome. Nephrotic Care Pack by Planet Ayurveda contains herbal formulations that are based on ancient Ayurveda texts and are very effective in the treatment of Nephrotic Syndrome.

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July 4, 2024

Ayurvedic Treatment of Sjogren’s Syndrome with Herbal Remedies

ABSTRACT

Sjogren’s syndrome is an autoimmune disorder of chronic nature. In this condition, the moisture producing glands do not function properly which leads to oral and ocular dryness. It is associated with other autoimmune diseases like Rheumatoid Arthritis, Lupus, Inflammatory Myositis, etc. It can be primary or secondary. Primary Sjogren’s syndrome is characterized by Keratoconjunctivitis sicca, Xerostomia and Secondary Sjogren’s syndrome is characterized by RA, Scleroderma, Vasculitis (extraglandular manifestations). Primary Sjogren’s is more common in females and has a female to male ratio of around 9:1. It usually strikes after menopause. Symptomatic treatment of this syndrome is available like use of lubricants and steroids. However, the Ayurvedic approach is targeted more at the root cause. This article will hint at the symptoms, types, causes and line of management of Sjogren’s syndrome according to both Modern and Ayurveda aspects.

Sjogren’s Syndrome

INTRODUCTION

This systemic disease is named after the Swedish ophthalmologist, Henrik Sjögren, who introduced the term ‘Keratoconjunctivitis sicca’ for dryness of eyes. In Sjogren’s syndrome, the immune system attacks the exocrine glands that produce saliva and tears due to which the moisture decreases and mouth and eyes become dry. The attack is not just limited to eyes and mouth, other organs like skin, kidney, liver, lungs or nervous system can also be affected by this condition. It has two age peaks with the first in the 20s and the second in the 50s. Primary Sjogren’s affects 0.1 to 0.6% of the adult female population. Both the innate (monocytes) and the adaptive immune system (T/B-cells) are involved in the initiation of this disease. People often complain of a sandy or gritty feeling in their eyes, especially in the morning.

SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS

Mouth

  • Dryness of mouth (xerostomia)
  • Burning and cracking of the tongue
  • Trouble swallowing
  • Difficulty speaking
  • Swollen parotid glands
  • Increased dental cavities

Eyes

  • Photosensitivity
  • Itching and redness in eyes.
  • Decreased tear output
  • Feeling of a foreign body presence in the eyes

Other Symptoms

  • Chronic dry cough due to decreased mucous section in the upper and lower respiratory tract
  • Esophageal dryness due to decreased mucous secretion in the GI Tract.
  • Vaginal Dryness
  • Joint and muscle pain
  • Fatigue
  • Low-grade fever
  • Trouble while sleeping
  • Brain fog

TYPES OF SJOGREN’S SYNDROME

There are two types of Sjogren’s syndrome

1. Primary Sjogren’s syndrome : It develops on its own and is not the consequence of another disease.

2. Secondary Sjogren’s syndrome : It is triggered by other conditions like rheumatoid arthritis or other auto-immune conditions.

CAUSES

Sjogren’s syndrome is an autoimmune disease when instead of protecting your body the immune system damages it by mistake. It is still not known what makes your immune system attack your glands and cause Sjogren’s syndrome. It may be caused due to the influence of genetic or environmental factors like viral infection.

DIAGNOSIS

Diagnosis is done based on the questions asked by your physician, examination of the body and conduction of any of the following tests

  • 80 percent of people with Secondary Sjogren’s test positive for antinuclear antibodies (ANA).
  • Rheumatoid factor is positive in the majority of people with Secondary Sjogren’s.
  • Protein levels will be elevated in 80% of Secondary Sjogren’s patients.
  • Schirmer’s test
  • Rose-Bengal staining test
  • Saliva flow Test
  • Erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) – High
  • Hb – Low
  • Albumin – Low
  • USG
  • Salivary gland biopsy of the lip or parotid gland.

RISK FACTORS

  • Genetic Predisposition : 10% people with Sjogren’s syndrome have a blood relative with the same condition. Some genes like HLA-B8 and HLA-DR3 are found more frequently in people with Primary Sjogren’s.
  • Gender : It is more common in females
  • Age : It is usually diagnosed in people more than 40 years old.
  • Auto-immune conditions : This condition usually occurs in pairs. Half of the population with Sjogren’s syndrome has another auto-immune condition especially of rheumatoid nature.

COMPLICATIONS

  • Eye problems like corneal damage.
  • Lymphomas (Cancerous tumors)
  • Affected kidney function
  • Abnormal liver function
  • Fungal infections in the mouth
  • Yeast infections
  • Dental caries
  • Neurological problems due to weakened nervous systems.

LINE OF TREATMENT

There is no cure for Sjogren’s syndrome, however, symptomatic treatment is suggested

  • Medications like NSAIDs (non steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs) for pain, corticosteroids and immunosuppressants.
  • Saliva produces medications for dry mouth.
  • Lubricants for private areas.
  • Some people may require hormone therapy.
  • Eye drops for eye lubricants.

AYURVEDA ASPECT

In Ayurveda Primary and Secondary Sjogren’s syndrome can be understood through the concept of swatantra (independent) and partantra (dependent) vyadhi (disease). Primary Sjogren’s is due to direct causative factors and can be correlated with Sushka Akshipak. Whereas Secondary Sjogren’s is associated with other autoimmune disorders, it can be included under the presented conditions like Aamvata, Vatarakta etc. Acharya Sushruta has mentioned about Shushka akshipak in Sushruta Samhita, Uttartantra, 6th chapter

“यत् कूणितं दारुणरुक्षवर्त्म विलोकने चाविलदर्शनं यत् |
सुदारुणं यत् प्रतिबोधने च शुष्कक्षिपाकोपहतं तदक्षि ||“
(Sushruta samhita, Uttartantra 6/26)

Above shloka states that the disease in which the eye-lids become dry and hard and remain always closed, the vision becomes cloudy and hazy, and it becomes very painful to open the eye-lids, is called the Shushk akshipaka.

According to Acharya Vaaghbhat

“वातपित्तातुरं घर्षतोदभेदोपदेहवत् | रूक्षदारुणवर्त्माक्षि कृच्छृोन्मीलनिमीलनम् ||
विकूणनविशुष्कत्वशीतेच्छाशूलपाकवत् | उक्त्त: शुष्काक्षिपाकोअयं-”
(Astanga Hridayam, Uttara sthana 15/16, 17)

The above shloka states that in sushka akshipak, Vata and Pitta are the main doshas asserting their dominance. The eyes experience pain as if scrubbed, needle-pricking pain, etc, eyelids become dry and hard, difficulty in opening and closing of eyelids. Eyes become dry and usually stay closed. In such a scenario, the patient experiences a need for cooling foods. Such disease in which eyes become dry and painful is called Shushk akshipak.

CAUSATIVE FACTORS OF SHUSHKA AKSHIPAK

  • Over-eating of cold, heavy and unctuous food.
  • Intake of viruddha ahaar (contraindicatory food) such as milk and salty food together leads to the production of Ama (toxic form of undigested food).
  • Regular intake of dry and hot potency food, emotional factors like anger, grief, anxiety, withholding natural urges like urine, sneezing etc. can cause the vitiation of udakavaha srotas (channels of transportation of water in the body).

ORIGIN OF DISEASE

Virudha ahar and vihar (contraindicatory diet and lifestyle) lead to agnimandhya (diminished digestive fire) that causes dosha imbalance and production of ama in the body. Aggravation of Vata Dosha along with Pitta and Kapha causes udakavaha srotodushti due to which dryness of mouth and eyes occurs. It then causes rasa and rakta dhatu dushti (vitiation of circulatory fluids and blood) in the eyes. This is the course of development of Shushka akshipaka.

DOSHA INVOLVED

Tridoshaj with Vata predominance

TREATMENT

The line of treatment of Sjogren ’s syndrome is as follows

  • Nidana Parivarjan (Dietary Changes)
  • In case of Ama in the body like rheumatoid cases, deepana-pachana treatment is given.
  • Nasya, Shirodhara, Akshi tarpan.
  • Vamana (emesis) / Virechana (purgation)
  • Shaman Chiktsa for vitiated Doshas (Medicine Treatment)
  • In case of excessive dryness, Sneha Pradhan (unctuous) treatment is given.
“शुष्कक्षिपाके हविष्: पनमक्ष्णोश्च तर्पणम् |
घृतेन जीवनीयेन नस्यं तैलेन वाअणुना ||
परिषेको हिताश्चात्र पय: कोष्णं ससैन्धवम् |
सर्पिर्युक्त्तं स्तन्यपिष्टमञ्जनं च महौषधम् ||“
(Astanga Hridayam, Uttara sthana 16/28, 29)

Various types of treatments are stated like intake of ghee, local eye therapy called Tarpana Kriya Kalpa with ghrita of Jeewaniyagan aushadh, anutail nasya, parishek (pouring of liquid) on eyes with milk mixed with rock salt. Anjana (collyrium) made from the paste of dry ginger, cow’s ghee along with human milk.

JOURNEY OF CARRIE ANN INABA WITH SJOGREN’S SYNDROME

Carrie Ann Inaba suffered from Sjogren’s syndrome but she didn’t know it for years. Due to her eyes being constantly dry she went to her doctor which for some reason yielded no result. Many years later she woke up one morning with a lump in her neck. Being scared of cancer she immediately contacted a specialist. She was then referred to a rheumatologist and was diagnosed with Sjorgren’s. She also suffers from fibromyalgia, lupus and rheumatoid arthritis. Carrie wasn’t a fan of medicines that is why she waited for six months after her diagnosis to take medication for her condition. Now she is glad she did the right thing. She says her decision turned out to be the biggest blessing for her. She describes her secret to cope with multiple chronic conditions that is taking proper nutrition. She starts her day with a protein shake, performs various Sjogren-friendly exercises. It listens to what her body needs instead of following a mass routine of high intensity workouts and heavy diets. She is the Sjogren’s syndrome Foundation’s National Awareness Ambassador and Spokesperson. She is committed to increase awareness about Sjogren’s and help raise funds for the research and treatment of this disease.

HERBAL REMEDIES FOR SJOGREN’S SYNDROME BY PLANET AYURVEDA

Planet Ayurveda is a GMP certified company that offers a wide variety of herbal supplements and wellness products formulated using traditional Ayurvedic principles and potent herbs. Planet Ayurveda offers an effective combination of herbal remedies for Sjogren’s syndrome. These remedies focus on relieving the symptoms of the diseases in order to enhance quality of life

  1. Ashwagandha Capsules
  2. Shilajit Capsules
  3. Boswellia Curcumin
  4. Green Essentials
  5. Youth Restora


Sjögrens Syndromes Care Pack

Product Description

1. Ashwagandha Capsules

These capsules contain the standardized extract of a potent herb called Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera). It helps to reduce the intensity of the flare-ups caused by this condition. It helps reduce fatigue in the body and stress in the mind. Ashwagandha possesses anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory properties.

Dosage : 1-2 capsules twice a day with plain water after meals.

2. Shilajit Capsules

Each Shilajit Capsules contains 500mg of standardized extract of raw Shilajit (Asphaltum punjabianum). These capsules have pain-relieving and anti-inflammatory properties. They will help purify the blood and strengthen the immune system which helps reduce immune attack on the glands. The rejuvenating properties will help in recovering from this disease. They are useful in depression and mental fatigue arising from chronicity of a disease as they help strengthen the nervous system.

Dosage : 1-2 capsules twice a day with plain water after meals.

3. Boswellia Curcumin

Boswellia CurcuminBoswellia Curcumin contain shallaki (Boswellia serrata) and Curcumin (Curcuma Longa). Curcumin reduces the oxidative stress that causes dry eyes. It will provide a strong immune support to the body. Boswellia will reduce dryness of eyes and mouth by pacifying Vata and Pitta Dosha. It will facilitate movement of eye balls which is quite difficult and painful in dry eyes. These capsules also have anti-inflammatory action useful in complications. These capsules are extremely beneficial in rheumatoid conditions that are usually associated with Sjogren’s syndrome.

Dosage : 1-2 capsules twice daily with plain water after meals.

4. Green Essentials

Green Essentials contain extracts of Grape Seed (Vitis vinifera), Wheat Grass (Triticulum aestivum), Spirulina (Spirulina platensis), Alfalfa (Medicago sativa), Green Tea (Camellia sinensis), Amla (Emblica Officinalis) and Chlorella (Chlorella vulgaris). This combination is a nutritional supplement that eliminates toxins from the body and acts as an immune booster. It effectively provides relief in Sjogren’s symptoms by acting on its root cause.

Dosage : 1-2 capsules twice a day with plain water after meals.

5. Youth Restora

This herbal preparation contains Bhumi amla (Phyllanthus niruri), Grape seeds (Vitis vinifera), Green tea (Camelia sinensis) and Cow colostrum (Bovine colostrums). This highly nutritive composition will Pacify Vata Dosha and help induce secretions from glands.

Dosage : 1-2 capsules twice daily with plain water after meals.

CONCLUSION

Sjogren’s syndrome is the third-most common rheumatic autoimmune disorder. There is no cure for this condition. However, Ayurveda can play a significant role in the management of its symptoms and associated diseases. This will help the patient’s overall health and improve quality of life. The herbal remedies by Planet Ayurveda mentioned in this article adhere to the principles of Ayurveda thus helping the patients affected with this chronic condition.

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