Stroke is recognized in Ayurveda as
"Pakshaghaat". Ayurveda has mentioned facial paralysis as a distinct
disease entity called "Ardita". Acute stroke is a complete medical
emergency where instant hospitalization and specialized medical care of the
patient can be lifesaving and can diminish permanent disability. After a
patient is discharged from hospital, it is imperious to start Ayurvedic treatment for stroke at the initial possible, to get maximum advantage.
The antique Ayurvedic texts mention mild purgation
as a special form of treatment for stroke. This cure modality is,
astonishingly, not recommended in Ayurveda for any other nervous condition
resulting from a disturbed "Vata" dosha. It is supposed that this
treatment benefits to reverse the pathology in stroke, by controlling the
"Prana Vayu" (which regulates the functions of the brain) and getting
about normal functioning of the blood vessels, strengths and tendons. Castor
oil, and Haritaki (Terminalia chebula), preserved with castor oil, are
recommended for this purpose.
Massage of the complete body using medicinal oils,
followed by vapor fomentation, is measured an important part of the treatment
for stroke. Bala (Sida cordifolia) oil and Narayan (Asparagus racemosus) oil
are normally used for kneading, while a decoction of Nirgundi( Vitex negundo),
Dashmool (Ten roots), or Erandmool (Root of Ricinus communis) is used for medicinal
steam fomentation.
"Basti" or medicated enema is also an exclusive part of Ayurvedic treatment for stroke. Both the "Niruh" and "Anuvaasan" types of purgatives are used in an alternating fashion. Dashmool decoction is typically recommended for Niruh Basti, and Til oil (Oil of Sesame) is suggested for Anuvaasan Basti.
Traditional Ayurvedic formulations used in the cure of stroke are: Mahayograj Guggulu, Yograj Guggulu, Vata Vidhvansa Ras, Sameerpannag Ras, Tapyadi Loha, Ekangveer Ras, Vata Gajankusha Ras and Bruhat Vata Chintamani. Herbal medications useful in this condition are: Rasna (Pluchea lanceolata), Sarpagandha (Rauwolfia serpentina), Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera), Dashmool, Bala, Maash (Phaseolus mungo) and Nirgundi.
Consequences with treatment depend upon the amount of permanent harm resulting from stroke, the time of beginning of treatment, the presence of other difficulties like high blood pressure and diabetes, and the overall physical and mental conditioning of the patient.
