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What is Idiopathic Thrombocytopenic Purpura (ITP)? What are the symptoms, causes and its Ayurvedic Treatment?

by Dr Vaid Ji on Jul 24, 2024

What is Idiopathic Thrombocytopenic Purpura (ITP)? What are the symptoms, causes and its Ayurvedic Treatment?
Idiopathic Thrombocytopenic Purpura (ITP) is an autoimmune disorder characterized by a low platelet count (thrombocytopenia), leading to easy bruising, bleeding gums, and excessive bleeding from cuts. In ITP, the immune system mistakenly attacks and destroys platelets, which are necessary for normal blood clotting.

Stages of ITP:

1. Acute ITP:
Often occurs in children and may follow a viral infection.
Typically resolves within six months, even without treatment.

2. Chronic ITP:
More common in adults.
Persists for more than six months and can last for years or be lifelong.

Main Causes of ITP:

1. Autoimmune Response: The immune system mistakenly targets and destroys platelets.
2. Infections: Viral infections such as Epstein-Barr virus, cytomegalovirus, HIV, and hepatitis can trigger ITP.
3. Medications: Certain medications, including antibiotics and antiepileptics, can induce thrombocytopenia.
4. Genetic Predisposition: Family history of autoimmune disorders can increase the risk.
5. Pregnancy: Can sometimes lead to low platelet counts.

Ayurvedic Treatment for ITP:

Immuno Booster Tablet is pure herbal combination that helps to build up immunity. it consists of effective levels of antioxidants. vitamin C and E circulate in the body to protect it against the damage caused by free radicals. it has natural immunity-boosting properties to prevent and ease cough, cold, headache, and infections. it provides quick relief from early signs of running nose, itching throat, body ache, and weakness.

Ayurveda aims to balance the doshas and strengthen the immune system while addressing the underlying causes of platelet destruction.

Panchakarma Treatments:

1. Virechana (Purgation):
Detoxification through purgation to remove toxins (ama) and balance Pitta dosha.
2. Raktamokshana (Bloodletting):
Controlled removal of small amounts of blood to detoxify and purify the blood.
Basti (Medicated Enemas):
Use of herbal decoctions or oils in enemas to pacify Vata dosha and cleanse the colon.
4. Abhyanga (Oil Massage):
Regular oil massages with medicated oils to improve circulation and boost immunity.

Herbal Remedies:

1. Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera):
Strengthens the immune system and reduces inflammation.
2. Brahmi (Bacopa monnieri):
Enhances overall health and reduces stress.
3. Giloy (Tinospora cordifolia):
Boosts immunity and helps in detoxification.
4. Amalaki (Emblica officinalis):
Rich in vitamin C, it improves immunity and has anti-inflammatory properties.
5. Gokshura (Tribulus terrestris):
Supports overall health and has anti-inflammatory effects.

Dietary Recommendations:

Immune-Boosting Foods: Include fresh fruits, vegetables, whole grains, nuts, and seeds.
Avoid: Processed foods, excessive sugar, and refined flour.
Hydration: Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated.

Lifestyle Modifications:

1. Regular Exercise: Engage in moderate exercise to boost overall health.
2. Stress Management: Practices such as yoga, meditation, and pranayama to reduce stress.
3. Avoid Infections: Take precautions to avoid infections, such as maintaining good hygiene and avoiding crowded places.

Precautions:

1. Avoid Trauma: Minimize activities that could lead to cuts, bruises, or injuries.
2. Regular Monitoring: Keep track of platelet counts through regular blood tests.
3. Avoid Certain Medications: Consult with a healthcare provider before taking medications that can affect platelet counts.
4. Healthy Lifestyle: Maintain a balanced diet, regular exercise, and good hygiene.

Home Remedies:

1. Papaya Leaf Extract: Known to increase platelet counts. Boil papaya leaves in water, strain, and drink the juice.
2. Amla (Indian Gooseberry): Consume fresh amla juice or amla powder mixed with honey.
3. Aloe Vera Juice: Drink fresh aloe vera juice to boost immunity.
4. Beetroot Juice: Rich in nutrients, it can help improve blood health.
5. Pomegranate Juice: Contains nutrients that can help increase platelet counts.
6. Ginger Tea: Has anti-inflammatory properties and can help boost immunity.

Panchakarma Home Remedies:

While Panchakarma is best performed under the guidance of a qualified practitioner, some simplified home remedies inspired by Panchakarma principles can be tried:

1. Daily Oil Massage (Abhyanga):
Self-massage with warm sesame oil before bathing to improve circulation and reduce stress.
2. Simple Detoxification (Laghu Shodhana):
Drink warm water with lemon and honey in the morning to help detoxify the body.
3. Herbal Decoction (Kadha):
Prepare a herbal decoction using ingredients like tulsi (holy basil), ginger, turmeric, and black pepper. Drink it daily to boost immunity.
4. Nasal Drops (Nasya):
Administer a few drops of warm sesame oil or Anu taila in each nostril in the morning to balance Vata and improve overall health.

Ayurvedic treatments for ITP aim to provide a holistic approach to managing the condition by addressing the root causes, enhancing immunity, and promoting overall well-being. It is important to work with a qualified Ayurvedic practitioner and inform your healthcare provider to ensure a coordinated and safe approach to treatment.