An open sore originated from the break in the skin or mucous membrane which did not heal on its own results into an Ulcer. Ulcers in the stomach region or intestines are known as gastric or peptic ulcers. Ayurveda believes that people suffering from different diseases can have the same symptoms. Ayurveda, therefore, does not believe in simply treating the symptoms that appear, but the underlying imbalances in the body that cause these symptoms. The same logic applies to ulcers.

According to Ayurveda, the reasons for ulcers are:

• Low resistance and immunity
• Inadequate nutrition and accumulation of toxins in the body
• Inappropriate circulation and imbalance in the nervous system
• Excessive physical and mental stress
• Disruption of natural rhythms in the body and
• Excessive secretion of stomach juices

Ayurveda believes that people with predominant Vata Dosha are generally the ones who suffer from ulcers. Apart from gastric or peptic ulcers, the duodenal ulcer may also be seen, which affects the duodenum.

Symptoms of Ulcer:

• Stomachache: It is the most common symptom of ulcer. This is a result of the digestion process. If the ulcer has penetrated too deep, then the pain will persist even after the food has been digested.
• Gradual weight loss
• Increased burping, gas and feeling full and thus, loss of appetite
• Nausea, especially after waking up in the morning
• Feeling tired and weak, also mental stress and agitation.
• Black stools indicate internal bleeding. If blood is seen while vomiting or black stools are noticed, it means that the patient must be hospitalized immediately

Ayurvedic Solutions of Ulcer:

• The first and most important step is to absolutely stay away from hot, oily and spicy food. Only mild and healthy food should be consumed as they are easy to digest.
• Alcohol and tobacco must be completely cut out.
• Hydration: It is important to drink sufficient amount of water
• Foods that contain flavonoids can be extremely beneficial for those suffering from peptic ulcers. These include soybeans, legumes, apples, red grapes, green tea, broccoli, kale, different kinds of berries, etc. However, it is important to intake flavonoid-containing foods such as citrus fruits and red wine can irritate the ulcer.
• Foods containing probiotics are also beneficial. Some foods rich in probiotics are buttermilk, yoghurt, kimchi, etc.
• Some more foods that are extremely good for ulcer patients are yashtimadhu or Indian liquorice, honey, garlic, cranberries, blueberries, black olives, dried rosemary and oregano, dark chocolate, bananas, coconut, fenugreek, chamomile or dandelion tea, carrot juice and mastic.
• Control the use of medicines and painkillers like naproxen, aspirin and ibuprofen along with other non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs
• Maintaining a good sleep routine and also avoiding stress and anger
• Washing hands frequently
• Healthy lifestyle and practising yoga. Some of the best yoga poses are Padmasana, Vajrasana, Bhujangasana, Pawanmuktasana and Paschimothana Asana.
• Drinking plain cold milk or water can help in reducing the pain caused by ulcers.

The aim of these treatments is to inhibit the production of acid in the stomach. Thus, Ayurveda recommends a holistic approach to the treatment of ulcer which includes food, stress management, sleep and exercise.