Ayurvedic practitioner suggests two remedies for monsoon-related pains and aches; experts elucidate

During the rainy season, many people experience issues with joint health. These pains and aches are caused by a disbalance in vata or air proportion in the body, said Dr Manisha Mishra, an Ayurveda physician. But there is nothing to worry about, as she has two remedies that can help. One is dry ginger powder tea, a brew that helps reduce vata. “Boil dry ginger powder with water, and have it twice daily — morning and evening,” said Dr Mishra.

Another solution, she said, is to apply castor oil on the body part where it is hurting. “Lubrication of the joint gets better and you walk better,” said Dr Mishra.

But what causes monsoon aches and pains?

During monsoon, the weather is characterised by cool winds and humidity. “In Ayurveda, this period, known as Visarga Kala, is when the Earth moves away from the sun, and the moon’s
influence increases, making the environment cooler. The monsoon season is associated with the vata and kapha doshas, which become aggravated during this time. Vata dosha, representing air
and space elements, becomes imbalanced and kapha dosha, representing water and earth elements, also increases,” explained Shlloka, classical hatha yoga teacher and lifestyle expert.

In simple words, cold, damp, and variable weather conditions increase vata dosha, leading to instability in the body. “This imbalance causes the joints to lose moisture, leading to friction, inflammation, joint pain, muscle aches, and stiffness,” said Shlloka.

The heavy, wet environment of the monsoon season aggravates the kapha dosha. “Excess kapha leads to fluid accumulation in the joints, causing inflammation and swelling, worsening conditions like arthritis, bursitis, and tendinitis,” mentioned Shlloka.

Herbal tea can help (Source: Getty Images/Thinkstock)

The expert continued that the cool, damp weather further weakens the digestive fire (Agni), leading to improper digestion and the accumulation of toxins. “Ama or toxins or undigested metabolic waste that accumulates in the body due to impaired digestion contributes to inflammation and pain in various parts of the body,” said Shlloka.

Do these remedies work?

Agreeing with the remedies suggested by Dr Mishra, Shlloka shared that applying castor oil packs — clean cloth soaked in warm castor oil — on the affected area can help. “Leave it on for 30-45 minutes, 1-2 times a day, to reduce inflammation and promote circulation,” said Shlloka.

She also listed other remedies

Mustard oil massage

*Warm some mustard oil and gently massage it into the affected muscles or joints.
*Add a few drops of essential oils like eucalyptus or peppermint for added pain relief.
*Do this massage daily, especially before bedtime, to soothe pain.

Fenugreek (methi) seed poultice

*Soak fenugreek seeds in water overnight and grind them into a paste.
*Apply the paste to the affected area and cover with a clean cloth.
*Leave it on for 30-60 minutes, then rinse off. This helps reduce inflammation and pain.

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Epsom salt bath

*Add 1-2 cups of Epsom salt to warm water and soak the affected area for 20-30 minutes.
*The magnesium in Epsom salt helps relax muscles and reduce pain.
*Add a few drops of essential oils like lavender or chamomile for added relaxation.

Herbal compress

*Boil water and steep a handful of herbs like ginger, turmeric, or ashwagandha.
*Soak a clean cloth in the herbal decoction and apply it to the affected area.
*Leave the compress on for 20-30 minutes, 1-2 times a day.

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