Abstract

*Dr. Tejas Mishra, Dr. Saurabh Kumar and Dr. Bhoomi Soni

ABSTRACT

Arsha (haemorrhoids or piles) is a common anorectal disease recognized as one of the eight major diseases (Asthamahagada) in Ayurveda. It is highly prevalent and has been acknowledged for thousands of years. Contributing factors to this condition include improper dietary habits, unhealthy lifestyle choices, anatomical abnormalities, and genetic predispositions. About half of the population experiences haemorrhoids at least once in their lifetime. Haemorrhoids result from the swelling of the hemorrhoidal venous plexus and the displacement of anal cushions. Clinically, this leads to symptoms such as inflamed or prolapsed piles, rectal bleeding, and discharge from the anus. In modern medicine, treatments such as haemorrhoidectomy are commonly used, though there is a risk of recurrence. In Ayurveda, the management of Arsha is more comprehensive, with treatments like: Bheshaj (herbal medicine), Kshar Karma (alkaline therapy), Agnikarma (cauterization), Shastra Karma (surgical removal). These treatments in Ayurveda aim to not only alleviate symptoms but also prevent recurrence by addressing the underlying causes.