Anaemia

An Ancient Solution to Anaemia: Unlock the Power of Ayurvedic Remedies

Anaemia, or iron deficiency, is one of the most common health issues affecting millions worldwide. Modern medicine has provided numerous treatment options to combat this troublesome condition to improve haemoglobin levels and overall stamina. However, have you ever considered turning to ancient remedies?

Ayurvedic practice is steeped in centuries-old tradition and holds the potential to be an effective solution for those looking for a natural remedy for Anaemia. Explore ayurvedic medicine for haemoglobin levels and stamina, and see if the power of nature can restore your energy!

Anaemia and its Prevalence

Anaemia is a condition where the red blood cells in the body are at lower than normal levels. It leads to a lack of oxygen being supplied to the body's tissues, muscles, and organs. This can cause fatigue, weakness, shortness of breath, and even paleness. A lack of iron or other vitamins and minerals in the diet typically causes Anaemia. It also can be inherited from a parent or caused by certain diseases such as diabetes, kidney disease, or cancer and heavy menstrual bleeding.

According to WHO, around 42% of children under the age of 5 and 40% of pregnant women worldwide suffer from Anaemia.

Causes

Anaemia is a medical condition in which the number of red blood cells and their oxygen-carrying capacity is reduced. Common causes of Anaemia include:

Iron deficiency: This is the most common cause of Anaemia, where the body consumes and absorbs not enough dietary iron.

Vitamin B12 or folate deficiency: These vitamins in animal-based foods are essential for red blood cell production and health. A lack of these vitamins can lead to Anaemia.

Chronic diseases: Certain chronic conditions, such as kidney disease and certain types of cancer, can lead to Anaemia.

Blood loss: Significant blood loss due to injuries or surgery can lead to Anaemia.

Medications: Some medications (e.g., those used in chemotherapy) can cause a decrease in red blood cell production and result in Anaemia.

Ayurvedic Medicine: In Ayurveda, some herbs are believed to help increase haemoglobin levels naturally, such as Shatavari, Ashwagandha, and Guduchi, which have been traditionally used for this purpose in Ayurvedic medicine. Having a blood film done allows a pathologist to examine the size and shape of your red blood cells, which can help identify the root cause of your Anaemia.

Types

Iron-deficiency Anaemia: Iron deficiency occurs when there is an ongoing lack of iron in the body over time. Iron deficiency Anaemia (IDA) is a type of iron deficiency and is considered the most severe form. It falls at the very lowest end of the range of iron deficiency.

Vitamin-deficiency Anaemia: Vitamin-deficiency Anaemia is caused due to the lack of essential vitamins in the body, such as folic acid and vitamin B12.

Haemolytic Anaemia: When the body destroys red blood cells faster than the bone marrow can make them, it leads to a condition called hemolytic Anaemia.

Sickle cell Anaemia: Sickle cell Anaemia is caused by a mutation in gene responsible for making haemoglobin.

Symptoms

Fatigue: People with Anaemia often feel tired and listless due to the lack of oxygen in their bodies. This can make it hard to concentrate and focus on tasks.

Pale skin: Pale skin is a common symptom of Anaemia, as there is decreased blood flow to the body’s tissues.

Shortness of breath: Anaemia can cause shortness of breath due to the lack of oxygen in the blood supply.

Dizziness or lightheadedness: Dizziness, lightheadedness, and fainting are all signs of Anaemia. This is because the lack of red blood cells causes a drop in oxygen levels which can lead to dizziness or lightheadedness.

Anaemia indicates poor nutrition and health, which can lead to other nutritional issues such as stunting, wasting, low birth weight, childhood overweight, and obesity. Additionally, lack of energy caused by Anaemia can make exercise difficult.

Ayurvedic Herbs

Ashwagandha: Known as ‘Indian ginseng’, this herb is recommended for people suffering from Anaemia due to its rich iron and vitamin content.

Shatavari: This herb has high iron content and is known for its ability to boost energy levels.

Amla: Also referred to as Indian gooseberry, amla helps build the body's haemoglobin and is a good source of iron.

Guduchi: Guduchi is a natural remedy for Anaemia and helps to improve the body’s ability to absorb nutrients.

Punarnava: Punarnava is an Ayurvedic herb that helps to improve the absorption of iron, zinc, and other nutrients. It is known for its ability to replenish red blood cells.

Suggested Changes in Lifestyle

Balanced diet: Eating a balanced diet is essential for preventing and reducing Anaemia. To improve your diet, consider including light meals such as lentil or vegetable soups, as well as incorporating pomegranates and melons.

Adequate hydration: Drinking enough water is critical for preventing and treating Anaemia. You must drink a minimum of 8 glasses of water daily and herbal infusions like chamomile and rosemary.

Regular exercise: Regular exercise helps improve your blood circulation and can help prevent Anaemia. Consider engaging in light aerobics or yoga for 30 minutes every day.

Stress management: High stress levels can lead to nutritional deficiencies and lower immunity, increasing your risk of Anaemia. Consider engaging in meditation, yoga, and aromatherapy to reduce stress.

Ayurvedic Dietary Recommendations

Iron-rich foods

leafy greens including spinach, kale, and chard

Beans and legumes including lentils and chickpeas

Dried fruits such as raisins, figs

Vitamin C-rich foods

Citrus fruits such as oranges

Berries such as strawberries, raspberries and blueberries

Jaggery

Aids in the absorption of iron and can help to regulate the body’s metabolism.

Ghee

• Consuming 10 ml of ghee on an empty stomach in the morning can help balance the pitta dosha, which is often responsible for Anaemia.

Ayurvedic Home Remedies

Pomegranate juice: Pomegranate juice is a great source of iron and helps treat Anaemia.

Beetroot juice: Beetroot juice is particularly useful for anemic patients as it helps to increase red blood cell count.

Sesame seeds: Sesame seeds are a rich source of iron and zinc, and can help treat Anaemia.

Black raisins: Black raisins are very beneficial in the treatment of Anaemia, and they also contain iron which helps to increase hemoglobin levels.

Sample Ayurvedic Diet Plan

Breakfast: Overnight oats with steamed vegetables on the side

Snack: Nuts and seeds trail mix with a piece of fruit

Lunch: Lentil soup with a side of sautéed greens

Snack: Hummus and crudites

Dinner: Grilled chicken with roasted root vegetables and quinoa

Cooking Tips

Use organic ingredients whenever possible.

Include plenty of iron-rich foods, such as legumes, dark leafy greens, nuts, and seeds.

Add spices like turmeric or ginger to meals for extra flavour and nutritional benefits.

Incorporate cooked grains into your diet to help replace lost nutrients.

Avoid processed or refined sugars and flours.

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