How often do we hear someone talk about Bloating? Not very often, mainly because we’re embarrassed about it. It might come as a surprise for you but bloating is a very common condition especially for women above 30. There are various factors that contribute to bloating but it can be eliminated by using Ayurvedic remedy for Bloating.
What do you mean by Bloating?
Bloating is the sensation of tightness or fullness in the abdomen. It happens when the gas released due to inadequate digestion fill up the stomach. It can also be a result of straining of digestive system’s organs i.e. when fluids or particles accumulate in a section of your stomach or if the food/particles move too slowly inside your stomach. Occasional bloating can happen to anyone and is extremely common. However, if your stomach is often bloated then you might need to take additional care.
Causes of Bloating
Bloating on a regular basis can be a result of one or any of the following issues:
- Weight gain
- Constipation
- Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)
- Stress
- Lactose intolerance
- Coeliac Disease
- Carbonated drinks
- Hormones (like before mensuration or during menopause)
- Some medicines
Ayurvedic Perspective of Bloating
Bloating, known as Aadhmana is a condition where toxics called ama are accumulated in the digestive tract which leads to impaired digestion. It is primarily caused because of Vata dosha since it leads to the formation of ama (a sticky and toxic substance). Vata can be worsened by a variety of factors like stress, improper eating habits, or disturbed sleep. Chronic Bloating can disrupt your everyday life causing discomfort and embarrassment. Ayurvedic Remedy for Bloating works to balance this Vata dosha and remove the root cause of Bloating naturally!
Also Read Ayurvedic Home Remedy for Good Sleep: Effective Solutions for Insomnia
Ayurvedic Remedy for Bloating
Herbal Teas
Teas made with herbs like Ginger, Chamomile, Cumin, Coriander, Peppermint or Fennel can help relieve symptoms of bloating. A warm cup of tea prepared by brewing one or two of these herbs already available in the kitchen can save your day.
Turmeric, the “Golden Spice”
Turmeric is known as the “Golden Spice” in Ayurveda due to its exceptional properties. You can simply add Turmeric to your food, soups or drink a glass of Turmeric milk. This will not only reduce bloating but also improve digestion.
Medicated Enema (Vasti)
Ayurvedic Basti or herbal enema is an effective ayurvedic therapy to relieve bloating. It is used to deliver herbs and oils straight to the colon. In simple words, enema are injections of fluids that are given to cleanse your stomach or improve bowel movement to empty your stomach. These have been used since ancient times to provide quick relief for Bloating.
Consume a light Vata soothing diet
Avoid cold, dry and processed foods like raw vegetables, smoothies, granola, cereals, popcorn, frozen meals, cold beverages etc. and switch to warm, well-cooked meals (preferably home-cooked meals) like Khichdi, lassi, etc. that soothes your stomach and restores digestive health.
Triphala
This traditional Ayurvedic compound is made of three fruits i.e. Haritaki, Amalaki and Bibhitak is known for its amazing digestive benefits. You can take ½ teaspoon of Triphala powder in a glass of warm water or milk to alleviate bloating.
Avoid drinking fluids before, during and immediately after meals
As per Ayurveda, drinking liquids before, during or immediately after meals dilute the enzymes that are responsible for effective digestion. It extinguishes the fire (agni) and produces a soupy slug in the belly that takes extended time to break down and stays in the stomach for too long.
Lemon Water in the morning
Drinking a glass of freshly squeezed lemon into a glass of warm water daily also relieves bloating and also aids in detoxification of the body.
Abdominal Massage
Massaging the abdomen with warm like such as castor or sesame oil in clockwise direction can also reduce the symptoms of bloating and improve digestion.
Key Takeaways
- Drink plenty of water throughout the day (preferably warm water) to flush out any toxins and prevent Bloating.
- Reduce your salt intake. Sodium causes water retention in the body and can cause bloating.
- Switch your large meals with tiny ones. If you eat a lot of large meals, your chances of feeling Bloated later increases. Instead opt for small and light meals and allow your digestive system to do its job.
- Avoid skipping meals and snacking during the day.
- Move your body. Go for a walk, do yoga or exercise. This will keep your body healthy and avoid any digestive issues.
