Colitis

Loose stools, abdominal pain, and urgency point to colitis, grahaṇī doṣa in Ayurveda. It stems from disturbed agni (digestive fire) and pitta inflammation in the colon. Chronic or acute, colitis reflects toxin buildup (āma), poor assimilation, and aggravated doṣas, especially pitta and vāta, disrupting gut lining and function.

Common Causes of Colitis

Excess spicy, fried food aggravates pitta and inflames bowels.
Overeating or irregular meals weaken agni.
Mental stress disturbs vāta and gut-brain connection.
Repeated infections or antibiotics harm digestive tissues.
Suppressed urges or night awakenings disrupt elimination rhythms.

Symptoms of Colitis

Frequent loose motions, sometimes with mucus or blood.
Burning or cramping in the lower abdomen.
Incomplete evacuation or urgency to pass stool.
Bloating, fatigue, and weight loss over time.
Low-grade fever or body ache during flare-ups.

Ayurveda’s Approach to Healing Colitis

Correcting agni with light, warm, and nourishing foods.
Cooling herbs like mustā and bilva soothe the colon.
Mṛdu virecana or basti clears toxins and restores balance.
Rice gruel, buttermilk, and jaṭāmāṃsī calm inflammation and anxiety.
Post-flare rasāyana supports tissue healing and long-term stability.