Rheumatoid Arthritis Treatment in Ayurveda

What is Rheumatoid Arthritis?

Rheumatoid Arthritis is a chronic autoimmune inflammatory disorder. In this condition, the immune system attacks the body’s own joints and can also affect other organs such as the eyes, heart, lungs, and oral cavity.

Joint involvement is typically bilateral and symmetrical, affecting smaller joints such as fingers and wrists. Persistent inflammation leads to pain, swelling, morning stiffness, and progressive joint deformity.

Common Symptoms

• Severe morning stiffness lasting 1–2 hours
• Pain, redness, and swelling of joints
• Symmetrical involvement of small joints
• Progressive joint deformity in advanced stages
• Fatigue and reduced quality of life

Rheumatoid Arthritis in Ayurveda

In Ayurveda, Rheumatoid Arthritis can be correlated with Ama Vatha or Vatha Shonitha (Raktha Vatha).

Vitiation of Raktha Dhathu and accumulation of Ama, along with aggravated Vatha, leads to inflammatory changes in joints causing pain, swelling, and stiffness.

Herbal House Ayurveda Treatment for Rheumatoid Arthritis

Treatment focuses primarily on Ama Pachana using internal medicines. External therapies are selected carefully to avoid aggravation of Ama and Raktha.

• Dhanyamladhara (pouring of fermented decoction)
• Lepanam (external application of herbal paste)
• Avikizhi (powder bundle heated using Dhanyamla vapour)
• Ksheeravasthi (special milk-based medicated enema)
• Virechanam (medically induced purgation)

Care During Treatment

• Strict adherence to prescribed diet and medicines
• Avoid heavy, cold, and incompatible foods
• Avoid overexertion and joint strain
• Regular follow-up and maintenance therapy

Expected Results & Prognosis

Rheumatoid Arthritis cannot be completely cured as it is an autoimmune condition. However, Ayurvedic treatment can significantly reduce symptoms, control inflammation, and slow disease progression.

With regular treatment and proper maintenance, joint deformity can be minimized and quality of life can be preserved.