🧓 Malnutrition in Geriatrics (Karshya): An Ayurvedic Perspective and Management at Yogakshema Ayurveda Hospital

🌿 Introduction

Malnutrition, referred to as Karshya in Ayurveda, is a common yet critical issue in the elderly, leading to physical weakness, poor immunity, and reduced quality of life. It results from inadequate nutrient intake, poor absorption, or excessive nutrient depletion—often exacerbated by age-related physiological changes.

🧘 Ayurvedic Perspective

In Ayurveda, Karshya is primarily associated with Vata dosha aggravation, which governs movement, catabolism, and dryness in the body.

🔹 Aggravated Vata:

  • Weakens Agni (digestive fire), impairing digestion and nutrient assimilation

  • Causes Dhatu Kshaya (tissue depletion), especially Rasa, Mamsa, and Meda Dhatus

  • Leads to poor circulation and nourishment of tissues

🪷 Other Contributing Factors:

  • Agni Mandya: Weak digestion

  • Ama Accumulation: Toxins interfering with metabolism

  • Manasika Karana: Psychological factors such as depression, anxiety, and loneliness affecting appetite and well-being

⚠️ Common Causes of Malnutrition in Geriatrics

  • Reduced appetite due to aging, illness, or medications

  • Dental issues causing difficulty in chewing/swallowing

  • Chronic diseases such as diabetes, kidney disease, or cancer

  • Medications affecting appetite or digestion

  • Social isolation or lack of support

  • Cognitive decline impairing food preparation and intake

  • Financial limitations reducing access to nutritious food

🔍 Signs and Symptoms of Karshya

  • Noticeable weight loss

  • Fatigue and low energy

  • Muscle wasting and weakness

  • Dry skin and hair

  • Loss of appetite

  • Delayed wound healing

  • Recurrent infections

  • Edema in legs and feet

🌿 Ayurvedic Management of Karshya

✅ Pacifying Vata Dosha

  • Herbs like Ashwagandha, Shatavari, and Bala to nourish and stabilize

  • Oil-based therapies to counteract dryness and enhance nourishment

✅ Enhancing Agni (Digestive Fire)

  • Use of herbs like Pippali, Ginger, and Chitraka to restore digestive strength

✅ Nourishing Dhatus (Body Tissues)

  • Rasayana therapies and nutrient-dense foods to replenish Rasa, Mamsa, and Meda Dhatus

✅ Reducing Ama

  • Gentle detoxification and metabolism-enhancing formulations

✅ Addressing Psychological Factors

  • Medhya Rasayanas and therapies for mood, sleep, and mental clarity

🩺 Key Therapeutic Interventions

🧴 Panchakarma Therapies

  • Basti (Medicated Enemas): Rejuvenates digestion, pacifies Vata

  • Abhyanga (Oil Massage): Nourishes body, calms mind

  • Swedana (Herbal Steam Therapy): Detoxification and relaxation

  • Nasya (Nasal Oil Therapy): Supports brain nourishment and mental clarity

🌿 Herbal Medicines

  • Ashwagandha: Builds strength, supports weight gain

  • Shatavari: Tissue nourishment and hormonal balance

  • Bala: Enhances energy and muscle mass

  • Triphala: Improves digestion and detoxification

  • Pippali: Improves metabolism

  • Amalaki: Rich in antioxidants and vitamin C

🥗 Diet & Lifestyle Modifications

  • Nourishing diet: Include milk, ghee, soups, rice, lentils, soft-cooked vegetables

  • Healthy fats: Ghee, nuts, coconut oil

  • Small frequent meals to ease digestion

  • Warm, cooked foods preferred over cold/raw

  • Warm hydration and herbal teas

  • Gentle physical activity: Walking, yoga

  • Mental well-being: Encourage social interaction, positive routine

  • Stress reduction: Meditation, deep breathing, relaxation practices

🧘 Recommended Yogasanas

  • Gentle stretching routines

  • Modified Surya Namaskar (Sun Salutation)

  • Vrikshasana (Tree Pose)

  • Supta Pawanmuktasana (Reclining Wind-Relieving Pose)

  • Shavasana (Corpse Pose) – For stress and mental relaxation

🏥 Customized Ayurvedic Care at Yogakshema Ayurveda Hospital

Every geriatric patient receives an individualized treatment plan based on:

  • Prakriti and Dosha Imbalance

  • Nutritional Status & Dietary Analysis

  • Functional Assessment (mobility, strength, daily activity)

  • Tailored Panchakarma, Herbal Medications, Lifestyle & Diet Plan

🌟 Benefits of the Ayurvedic Approach

  • Holistic care for mind and body

  • Safe and natural treatments with minimal side effects

  • Improved digestion, strength, and immunity

  • Better energy, mood, and daily functioning

🏨 Yogakshema Ayurveda Hospital: Your Destination for Holistic Geriatric Care

We offer a nurturing and compassionate environment for geriatric patients. Our team of expert Ayurvedic physicians and therapists ensures complete support on your journey to strength, nourishment, and vitality—naturally.