Ayurveda, knee pain is generally related to an imbalance of Vata, which presides over movement and controls the nervous system. The aggravation of Vata brings dryness and degeneration to the joints, resulting in stiffness, pain, and inflammation. Knee pain can also be related to an accumulation of toxins, known as ama, in the body, which obstructs the channels and impairs joint function.
Ayurvedic Perspective on Knee Pain
Vata Imbalance: Dryness, cracking sounds in the knee, and sharp pain usually denote excess Vata in the joints. This may be due to old age, overwork, or wrong eating habits.
Kapha Imbalance: If the pain in the knee is associated with swelling, stiffness, and heaviness, it may indicate an imbalance of the Kapha dosha.
Ama Accumulation: Toxins (ama) due to improper digestion collect in the joints, causing inflammation that leads to pain. Symptoms include heaviness in the knee joints along with morning stiffness.
Sandhivata or Osteoarthritis: In Sanskrit, it is known as “Sandhivata,” caused by a problem in Vata dosha, affecting the joints and characterised by degeneration of the cartilage and joint pain.
Ayurvedic Treatments and Remedies for Knee Pain
Internal Herbal Remedies:
Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera): This is an anti-inflammatory herb with pain-relieving properties. It strengthens the joints, thus reducing pain.
Guggulu (Commiphora wightii): This is a traditionally used herb for joint and muscular disorders. It has anti-inflammatory properties that help in maintaining Vata.
Shallaki (Boswellia serrata): Boswellia is effective in reducing inflammation and stiffness in the joints.
Triphala: This herbal formulation of three fruits cleanses the body and minimizes ama accumulation.
Panchakarma Therapy:
Abhyanga (Oil Massage): Regular oil massage with warm medicated oils like Mahanarayan oil, Dhanwantharam oil, or sesame oil pacifies Vata and reduces pain and stiffness.
Swedana (Steam Therapy): Herbal steam therapy and fomentation open up the channels, relax muscles, and reduce stiffness.
Basti (Medicated Enema): This is a specialised treatment for Vata disorders. It cleanses and nourishes the colon, which in turn is beneficial for joint disorders.
External Remedies and Oils:
Mahanarayan Oil Massage: This oil contains various Ayurvedic herbs that relieve pain, stiffness, and inflammation.
Nirgundi Oil (Vitex negundo): Nirgundi is an efficient pain-relieving and anti-inflammatory herb. Its oil is applied externally to reduce pain and swelling.
Turmeric and Mustard Oil Paste: Applying a paste made of turmeric and mustard oil to the knees helps reduce pain and swelling.
Diet and Lifestyle Advice
Diet: Include foods like turmeric, ginger, garlic, and ghee that have anti-inflammatory properties. Avoid dry, cold, and raw foods that aggravate Vata. Instead, increase warm, cooked, nourishing foods.
Herbal Teas: Consume herbal teas like ginger, ashwagandha, or licorice to soothe Vata.
Exercise and Yoga: Mild exercises, including stretching, yoga, and walking, will help enhance joint flexibility and reduce stiffness.
Maintain Proper Posture: Avoid sitting in one position for too long. Keep your knees warm and protected from cold drafts.
Ayurvedic Herbs for Pain in the Knees
Rasna (Pluchea lanceolata): This herb is anti-inflammatory and anti-arthritic, which helps cure joint pains.
Eranda (Ricinus communis): The root of the castor plant is helpful in the treatment of joint stiffness and pain.
Guduchi (Tinospora cordifolia): This herb has beneficial actions on the anti-inflammatory pathways and the immune system.
Shallaki (Boswellia serrata): Shallaki reduces joint inflammation and increases flexibility.
