Inguinal hernia treatment in Ayurveda is considered a condition caused by an imbalance in Vata dosha, leading to weakened abdominal muscles and intestinal protrusion. While Ayurveda does not offer a direct surgical cure, it provides natural management strategies that can help reduce symptoms and prevent worsening.
Inguinal hernia treatment in Ayurveda
Inguinal hernia treatment in Ayurveda includes herbal remedies like Triphala, Ashwagandha, and Haritaki, along with Panchakarma therapies. Lifestyle changes, yoga (like Pavanamuktasana), and a balanced diet help strengthen abdominal muscles and reduce symptoms.
1. Herbal Remedies
Triphala Churna – A mild laxative that prevents constipation and reduces strain on abdominal muscles.
Ashwagandha – Strengthens abdominal muscles and reduces vascular imbalance.
Guggulu formulations (such as Kanchanar Guggulu) – Help in tissue regeneration and reducing swelling. Haritaki (Terminalia chebula) – Supports digestion and relieves constipation. Shatavari and Vidari Kand – Provide nourishment and strengthen the abdominal walls.
2. Ayurvedic Oils & External Applications
Mahanarayan Oil – Massaging the lower abdomen gently can strengthen muscles.
Pinda Taila & Narayana Taila – Help in reducing inflammation and pain.
3. Panchakarma Therapy (Detoxification)
Basti (Medicated Enema) – Balances Vata dosha and strengthens intestines.
Abhyanga (Oil Massage) – Helps improve circulation and muscle strength.
Mahanarayan Oil – Massaging the lower abdomen gently can strengthen muscles. Pinda Taila & Narayana Taila help in reducing inflammation and pain.
3. Panchakarma Therapy (Detoxification)
Basti (Medicated Enema) – Balances Vata dosha and strengthens intestines. Abhyanga (Oil Massage) – Helps improve circulation and muscle strength.
4. Diet & Lifestyle Modifications
Eat easy-to-digest foods – Including warm, light, and fibrous foods to prevent constipation.
Avoid heavy, gas-forming, and oily foods – like fried foods, beans, and processed foods. Drink lukewarm water – Helps in digestion and prevents strain. Practicing mild yoga poses like Pawanmuktasana (wind-relieving pose) and Bhujangasana (Cobra pose) to strengthen abdominal muscles. Avoid lifting heavy weights – Prevents further weakening of the abdominal wall.
5. Ayurvedic Medicines (Under Expert Supervision)
Vriddhivadhika Vati – Traditionally used for hernia management. Chandraprabha Vati – Helps in reducing swelling and strengthening internal organs.
Important Note
If the hernia is large, painful, or strangulated, Ayurveda alone may not be sufficient, and surgical intervention (Herniorrhaphy or Hernioplasty) may be required. Always consult an Ayurvedic practitioner before starting any treatment.
FAQs
Q. Can Ayurveda treat inguinal hernia?
Ans. Ayurveda cannot fully cure an inguinal hernia but may help manage symptoms and prevent worsening. Treatments include herbal remedies, lifestyle changes, abdominal strengthening exercises, and external therapies like oil massages. Surgery remains the most effective treatment for complete hernia repair.
Q. What can make a hernia go down?
Ans. A hernia may temporarily go down by lying flat, applying gentle pressure, or relaxing the abdominal muscles. Wearing a hernia belt, avoiding heavy lifting, and maintaining a healthy weight can help. However, surgery is the only definitive treatment for hernias.
Q. What can make a hernia go down?
Ans. A hernia may be temporarily reduced by lying down, applying gentle pressure, or wearing a hernia belt. Avoid straining, heavy lifting, or prolonged standing. However, only surgery provides a permanent fix. Consult a doctor for proper management and to prevent complications.
Q. Can you rub a hernia back in?
Ans. In some cases, a reducible hernia can be gently massaged back in while lying down. However, forcing it may cause harm. If it’s painful, stuck, or swollen, seek medical attention immediately, as it could indicate a strangulated or incarcerated hernia.
Q. Are there warning signs that a hernia is getting worse?
Ans. Warning signs of a worsening hernia include increased pain, swelling, redness, tenderness at the site, nausea, vomiting, or an inability to push the bulge back in. These could indicate complications like strangulation or obstruction, requiring immediate medical attention.
Q. Do bananas help hiatal hernia?
Ans. Bananas can be beneficial for those with a hiatal hernia as they are alkaline and may help neutralize stomach acid, reducing reflux symptoms. However, individual reactions vary. It’s best to consult a doctor for personalized dietary advice.
Q. Is it OK to massage a hernia?
Ans. It’s not recommended to massage a hernia, as it can worsen the condition by putting pressure on the weakened area. It’s important to consult a healthcare professional for advice on managing and treating a hernia safely.