A Comprehensive Guide to Ayurvedic Medicines for Fever
Fever is a condition when the body temperature rises more than normal. It is not a disease but a symptom of a wide range of conditions. Fever is a sign of the body’s response to activate immunity. Fever can occur due to bacterial or viral infections, gastrointestinal infections, urinary tract infections, vaccinations, due to certain medications, etc. Chills, fatigue, headache, body aches, increased heart rate, on-and-off sweating, excessive thirst, lack of appetite, earache, etc. are the symptoms associated with fever. Paracetamol is the antipyretic commonly prescribed during fever.
Ayurveda, the ancient Indian system of medicine, provides a nuanced understanding of fever, delving into its diverse types, identifying distinctive symptoms, and offering tailored treatments. In this exploration, we unravel the Ayurvedic perspective on fever with a professional lens.
Types of Fever in Ayurveda
1. Vata-Related Fever:
- Characteristics: Vata, representing air and ether elements, manifests in symptoms such as body aches, chills, and a variable pulse.
- Imbalance Indicators: Irregular digestion, anxiety, and insomnia may precede Vata-related fever.
2. Pitta-Related Fever:
- Characteristics: Aggravated Pitta, associated with fire and water elements, exhibits symptoms like intense heat, thirst, and irritability.
- Imbalance Indicators: Inflammation, acidity, and excessive sweating often accompany Pitta-related fever.
3. Kapha-Related Fever:
- Characteristics: Kapha, representing water and earth elements, manifests in symptoms such as lethargy, congestion, and a heavy feeling in the body.
- Imbalance Indicators: Excessive mucus production, sluggish metabolism, and weight gain may precede Kapha-related fever.
Symptoms of Fever in Ayurveda
Ayurveda recognizes that fever is not a standalone condition but a manifestation of imbalances within the body. Common symptoms include:
- Elevated body temperature
- Fatigue and weakness
- Headache and body pain
- Loss of appetite
- Altered digestion and bowel movements
Ayurvedic Approach to Fever Treatment
1. Herbal Remedies:
- Ayurveda harnesses the therapeutic properties of herbs to address specific doshic imbalances. For Vata-related fever, ginger, and cinnamon may be prescribed, while cooling herbs like coriander and aloe vera are used for Pitta-related fever. Kapha-related fever may be treated with warming herbs like black pepper and ginger.
2. Dietary Guidelines:
- A crucial aspect of Ayurvedic fever management involves dietary adjustments. A Pitta-pacifying diet, including cooling foods like cucumber, mint, and coconut water, helps restore balance. Favoring light, easily digestible meals aids the body in its healing process.
3. Detoxification Practices:
- Ayurveda emphasizes detoxification to eliminate accumulated toxins contributing to fever. Panchakarma, a comprehensive detoxification process, may be recommended to cleanse the body and reset its natural balance.
4. Lifestyle Modifications:
- Restoring balance extends beyond herbal remedies and dietary changes. Ayurvedic lifestyle practices, including maintaining a regular routine, adequate sleep, and reducing stress through yoga and meditation, are integral components of fever management.
Classical Ayurvedic medicines for fever
- Abhaya pippalimuladi Kashayam
- Bharngyadi Kashayam
- Brahmi drakshayadi Kashayam
- Drakshadi Kashayam
- Guluchyadi Kashayam
- Nimbadi Kashayam
- Pachanamruta Kashayam
- Pathyakatphaladi Kashayam
- Shadangam Kashayam
- Sitajwaradi Kashayam
- Vyaghriyadi Kashayam
- Sudarshanarishta
- Cukkumtippallyadi Gulika
- Mukkadi Gulika
- Nilimuladi Gulika
- Ramabanam Gulika
- Rudrakshadi Gulika
- Sarvaroga kulantaka Gulika
- Suryaprabha Gulika
- Vettumarn Gulika
- Vishamajwarantakam Gulika
- Anandabhairava Rasa
- Hinguleshwara Rasa
- Jayamangala Rasa
- Jwarankusha Rasa
- Tribhuvan Keerti rasa
- Sudarshana Vati
- Amritarishta
- Amrutottara Kashayam
- Sudarshana choorna
- Mukta Bhasma
- Muktashukti Bhasma
- Swarnamakshika Bhasma
Many other ayurvedic medicines are used in treating fever and these medicines are not only used in treating fever but also are used in treating various other diseases depending on the dosha involvement.
The general dosage of Ayurvedic Medicines for Fever
- Choorna preparations can be given 5 gm-10gm dosage twice a day mixed with honey or warm water after food.
- Gutika or Vati/Rasa form of medicine to be taken one to two tablets twice or thrice a day after food till the symptoms are reduced.
- Kwatha or Arishta preparations are advised to be taken 15 – 20 ml twice or thrice a day.
Professional Insights on Ayurvedic Fever Treatment:
Ayurvedic treatments are individualized, considering each person’s unique constitution (Prakriti) and the doshas involved in the disease. While Ayurveda offers valuable perspectives on fever management, it’s essential to integrate these approaches judiciously with conventional medical care, especially in severe cases.
In conclusion, Ayurveda’s holistic approach to fever, addressing root causes and restoring balance, provides a valuable adjunct to contemporary healthcare. Integrating ancient wisdom with modern insights, Ayurveda offers a comprehensive framework for personalized fever management, aligning with the fundamental principles of holistic well-being.