Green World Gastric Health With Rhizoma Dioscoreae

A sore that develops on the lining of the esophagus, stomach, or small intestine. Ulcers occur when stomach acid damages the lining of the digestive tract. Common causes include the bacteria H. Pylori and anti-inflammatory pain relievers including Upper abdominal pain is a common symptom.

Ayurveda classifies ulcers into Vata and Pitta type ulcers. Vata ulcers occur due to the drying and thinning of the protective mucous membranes in the upper GI tract. When this happens, the mucous membrane is not thick enough to protect the delicate lining of the GI tract from harmful digestive acids. Individuals with a Vata constitution tend to be erratic and often skip meals, overriding sensations of hunger to go about their busy day uninterrupted. If the stomach is producing acid but there is no food to digest, the stomach is in a very vulnerable state to develop an ulcer, particularly if the mucous membrane is already thin and dry.

People with a Pitta predominance can develop ulcers when intense emotions, such as shame, anger, or rage, overstimulate the solar plexus area. Psychologically, these emotions give people that hot-headed feeling, while physically, it can create a burning, tight, clenched sensation in the abdomen. Ayurvedically, these emotions increase Pitta dosha and activate digestive juices from the stomach, liver, and pancreas, making the stomach and intestines excessively acidic. This occurs when stress causes bile reflux, hyperacidity, low digestive strength (Agni), or when tension causes a lack of blood flow to digestive organs.