Amyloidosis

Amyloidosis is a rare condition where an abnormal protein called amyloid builds up in tissues and organs, affecting their normal function. Amyloid deposits can happen in various parts of the body, such as the heart, kidneys, liver, spleen, digestive system, and nervous system. If not managed, these deposits can lead to severe complications.

Some types of this disorder are hereditary.

Chronic diseases: Long-term inflammatory diseases (e.g., rheumatoid arthritis) can trigger amyloid formation.

Blood cell disorders: Abnormal plasma cells can produce proteins that form amyloid.

Symptoms

• Symptoms vary depending on the organs affected. Common signs include:
• Fatigue and weakness
• Swelling in the legs and ankles
• Unexplained weight loss
• Shortness of breath
• Numbness or tingling in hands and feet
• Enlarged tongue, making it difficult to swallow

Complications

• Amyloidosis can lead to serious health issues depending on the affected organs, such as:
• Heart failure: Due to stiffened heart tissue
• Kidney failure: When deposits affect kidney filtering ability
• Nerve damage: Resulting in pain, numbness, or tingling
• Liver issues: Potential enlargement and impairment of liver function

Doctors diagnose amyloidosis through

• Biopsy: Tissue samples from affected areas are checked for amyloid deposits.
• Blood and urine tests: To identify abnormal proteins.
• Imaging tests: Like MRI, CT scan, or echocardiogram to see organ involvement.

From the Ayurveda point of view, amyloidosis can be related to an imbalance of Kapha (water and earth elements) and Ama (toxins) due to improper digestion and waste elimination.

Ayurvedic treatment of Amyloidosis:

Detoxification: Through Panchakarma therapies to cleanse the body.

Strengthening Agni (digestive fire): This is crucial for reducing Ama (toxins) that may contribute to disease progression.

Herbs useful in Amyloidosis

Punarnava (Boerhaavia diffusa):

Punarnava is an excellent diuretic, anti-inflammatory and has rejuvenating properties. It helps eliminate excess fluids and this supports liver and kidney function.

Use: It is commoncorrect used in powder form or decoction form.

Manjistha (Rubia cordifolia):

It is Blood-purifying, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant. Manjistha is known for purifying blood and may help manage amyloidosis symptoms by reducing toxicity and supporting lymphatic health.

Bhringraj (Eclipta Alba):

Properties: Detoxifying, rejuvenating, supports liver health.

Benefits: Known for supporting liver function, Bhringraj can help the body’s natural detoxification processes.

Use: Typically taken as a powder or in Ayurvedic formulations.

Guduchi (Tinospora cordifolia):

Properties: Immunomodulatory, anti-inflammatory, rejuvenating.

Benefits: Guduchi is known for enhancing immunity and detoxifying blood, which could support the body in managing amyloid deposits.

Use: Often taken as a powder, capsule, or in herbal formulations.

Shatavari (Asparagus racemosus):

Properties: Rejuvenating, anti-inflammatory, supports immune health.

Benefits: Shatavari helps restore energy and supports overall health, which may help the body better cope with amyloidosis symptoms.

Use: Available in powder, capsule, or liquid form.