Peptic ulcer

A burning belly, sour burps, and gnawing hunger pangs, peptic ulcers reflect intense inner heat. In Ayurveda, this condition is linked to āmlapitta, an imbalance of pitta doṣa (the fire-energy) that injures stomach lining. Improper eating weakens agni (digestive fire), allowing acidic secretions to harm tissues and cause ulceration.

Common Causes of Peptic ulcer

Frequent skipping or delaying meals increases pitta.
Spicy, sour, and fermented foods aggravate stomach acid.
Chronic stress fuels internal heat and weakens digestion.
Overuse of painkillers disrupts gut integrity.
Night shifts or irregular sleep disturb doṣa balance.

Symptoms of Peptic ulcer

Burning pain in upper abdomen, often between meals.
Sour belching or acid reflux after eating.
Nausea or heaviness, especially in the morning.
Reduced appetite or fear of eating due to pain.
Black or tarry stools in severe cases.

Ayurveda’s Approach to Healing Peptic ulcer

Gentle herbs like yashtimadhu (licorice) soothe and repair.
A pitta-pacifying diet includes cooling, bland foods.
Daily routines restore rhythm to digestion and rest.
Ghee-based formulations protect and heal mucosal lining.
Śamana (pacification) and śodhana (cleansing) therapies are tailored to root causes.