A stroke, often called a brain attack, occurs when blood flow to the brain is blocked or a blood vessel ruptures. While it was once considered a disease of old age, strokes are now affecting people of all age groups. This medical emergency requires immediate attention to prevent serious complications.
While modern medicine focuses on emergency care, regaining movement and function is a crucial part of recovery. This is where Ayurveda plays a significant role. But does Ayurveda have references to stroke? Can it help in recovery? Let’s explore.
Ayurvedic View on Stroke (Pakshaghata)
Ayurveda, a 5,000-year-old healing system, explains stroke as Pakshaghata—a condition where one side of the body is affected. The term comes from:
✔️ Paksha (half) – referring to one side of the body
✔️ Aghata (injury) – indicating impairment or damage
Stroke is classified as a Vata Vyadhi (a disorder caused by an imbalance of Vata dosha), which governs movement and neural functions in the body.
Causes of Stroke in Ayurveda
Several factors contribute to Vata imbalance, leading to stroke (Pakshaghata). These can be classified into:
1. Dietary Factors (Aharaja)
✅ Eating stale, refrigerated, dry, or oil-free foods
✅ Irregular eating habits and poor nutrition
✅ Skipping meals or following extreme diets
As the saying goes, “We are what we eat.” Poor dietary habits can increase Vata, making the body prone to neurological disorders.
2. Lifestyle Factors (Viharaja)
✅ Overexertion or lack of physical activity
✅ Sleep deprivation, especially staying up late at night
✅ Chronic stress, anxiety, and emotional distress
A stressful lifestyle is a major trigger for stroke and other neurological disorders.
3. Traumatic Factors (Abhighataja)
✅ Accidents or injuries causing nerve damage
✅ Falls, especially in older adults
✅ Road accidents leading to head trauma
In ancient times, falls from animals were a common cause, whereas today, head injuries from road accidents are a major reason behind strokes and paralysis.
Ayurvedic Treatment for Stroke Recovery
After emergency medical care, Ayurveda offers a natural and effective approach to rehabilitation. The treatment is customized based on the patient’s condition and progress.
1. Virechana (Therapeutic Detoxification)
🔹 Uses mild laxatives to remove toxins (Ama)
🔹 Helps restore gut health, which is crucial for recovery
🔹 Suitable only if the patient has regained some mobility
2. Basti (Medicated Enema Therapy)
🔹 Balances Vata dosha, which plays a major role in stroke recovery
🔹 Herbal enemas help improve nerve function and mobility
3. External Ayurvedic Therapies
✅ Abhyanga (Oil Massage): Improves circulation and strengthens muscles
✅ Shirodhara: Continuous stream of warm oil on the forehead to calm the nervous system
✅ Shirobasti: Oil retention on the head for deeper neurological healing
✅ Jambeerapinda Sweda & Mamsa Pinda Sweda: Herbal poultice therapies to restore muscle strength
4. Rasayana Therapy (Rejuvenation Treatment)
🔹 Focuses on nerve and cell regeneration
🔹 Uses specific herbs and formulations to restore lost function
Conclusion
Stroke recovery requires a holistic approach. While modern medicine provides life-saving treatments, Ayurveda helps in long-term rehabilitation by improving movement, restoring nerve function, and preventing recurrence.
By following a balanced diet, lifestyle modifications, and Ayurvedic therapies, patients can regain mobility and improve their quality of life naturally.