12/06/2025
Ayurveda views Alzheimer's disease, often referred to as "Smruthi Nasha" (memory loss) or "Smritibhramsha," as primarily a disorder of aggravated Vata Dosha, particularly affecting the Majja Dhatu (nervous tissue) and Mano Vaha Srotas (channels of the mind). This imbalance is believed to lead to the degeneration and malfunction of mental activities.
It's crucial to understand that while Ayurveda offers a holistic approach to managing Alzheimer's symptoms and potentially slowing its progression, it does not claim to offer a complete cure. Modern medicine also currently lacks a cure for Alzheimer's. However, Ayurvedic treatments aim to improve overall health, alleviate symptoms, enhance cognitive function, and improve quality of life.
Here's a breakdown of the Ayurvedic approach to Alzheimer's treatment:
1. Balancing Vata Dosha:
* Dietary Modifications: A Vata-balancing diet is recommended, which includes warm, moist, nourishing foods. Emphasis is placed on fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and healthy fats like ghee and coconut oil. Foods that are overripe, overcooked, highly processed, frozen, or refined are generally avoided as they can increase Vata. Antioxidant-rich foods are also encouraged.
* Lifestyle Recommendations:
* Regular daily routine: Maintaining a consistent schedule for sleep, meals, and activities can help stabilize Vata.
* Adequate sleep: 7-8 hours of quality sleep is considered vital for brain health and recovery.
* Stress management: Yoga, meditation, and spending time outdoors are recommended to reduce stress, a known factor in cognitive decline.
* Gentle exercises: Physical activity is encouraged to improve circulation and overall well-being.
* Building social connections.
2. Panchakarma Therapies (Detoxification and Rejuvenation):
Dr Ravindra Borade
Pune Ayurved
www.puneayurveda.com