Inflammatory Bowel Disease - An Ayurvedic View

Abstract

Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) is a chronic, relapsing inflammatory disorder of the gastrointestinal tract of uncertain etiology, mainly encompassing ulcerative colitis and Crohn’s Disease. It commonly presents with abdominal pain, frequent loose stools, bleeding or mucus discharge with stool, and tenesmus. The incidence of IBD is increasing globally and is considered a major cause of morbidity affecting quality of life. In Ayurvedic literature, IBD is not described as a single disease entity but its symptomatology closely resembles conditions such as Rakta Pittatisara, Rakta Pravahika, Abhyantara Visarpa, Guda Paka, and Dushta Vrana. From an Ayurvedic perspective, it can be interpreted as a Tridoshaja Vyadhi with predominant Rakta involvement, arising from Agni Mandya (impaired digestion), Ama Sanchaya (toxin accumulation), and Srotorodha (obstruction of channels). Deranged Agni leads to the production of Ama, which along with vitiated Doshas, localizes in the Kostha and Dhatu level, resulting in inflammatory and ulcerative lesions in the intestinal walls. The Ayurvedic management of IBD focuses on correcting Agni Dushti, eliminating Ama, pacifying vitiated Doshas, purifying Rakta, through Ahara, Vihara, and Aushadha Chikitsa. Therapeutic interventions such as Deepana-Pachana, Srotoshodhana, Raktaprasadana, and play crucial roles in restoring gut health and systemic harmony. The present article aims to explore the Nidana, Lakshana, Samprapti, and management principles of IBD through an Ayurvedic lens.