AYURVEDIC TREATMENT OF SYPHILIS

Abstract

Syphilis is an infection which is often caused due to bacteria, which is a sexually transmitted disease. Sexually transmitted disease or sexually transmitted infection passes from one to another person through vaginal, oral and anal sex. There are more than 20 known types of Sexually transmitted diseases which develop itching and burning sensation in the genital area. More than 25 million infections are recorded every year in the United States. This life-threatening disease is hunting on mankind and is increasing rapidly. Sexually transmitted diseases can cause various health complications such as Deafness, blindness and damage related to bones and the nervous system. In this article, we are going to discuss the causes, symptoms and Ayurvedic view of Syphilis in detail to learn how Ayurvedic herbs are useful in fighting against these infections.

Introduction

Syphilis is a contagious disease which is caused by the infection of bacteria named (Treponema pallidum). Syphilis is a public threat which causes various health problems and this infection is asymptomatic so it is very hard to diagnose which can lead to serious damage to the system of the body over time. Sexually transmitted diseases can pass from the mother to her child before the birth or can be passed through transfusion. In 2015, about 45.4 million people suffered from this infection and in the year 2015, more than 107,700 deaths were seen.

Causes

• The cause of Syphilis is mainly bacteria (Treponema pallidum) which spreads through sexual contact during vaginal, oral or anal sex.
• This bacteria usually enters the body through minor cuts or is present in the inner moist lining of the body parts.
• If the active sore is present on the lips, tongue or breasts can be easily spread through kissing or touching.
• Treponema continuously spreads to the body and can eventually damage the organs.
• Syphilis can’t be spread by Toilet seats, swimming pools, hot tubs, or eating utensils.

Symptoms

The symptoms of Syphilis are divided into 3 stages which may vary and can overlap. Three stages of Syphilis are

1. Primary Syphilis

The first symptom of primary syphilis is the presence of a small sore which is known as Chancre which is a painless sore.

• These sores are usually present on the genitals, anal and rectum region.
• It is usually found between 10-90 days.
• Primary syphilis sore heals without getting a scar within 6 weeks.
• Sometimes, the only symptom of primary syphilis is swollen lymph nodes.

2. Secondary Syphilis

The symptoms of secondary syphilis appear when there is the healing of the first chancre.

• These sores usually appear after 6 weeks and lasts for 1-3 month.
• Secondary syphilis sores are usually rosy “copper penny” rashes, usually seen on the palms of hands and feet.
• The sores are moist, wart-like lesions in the groin region, swollen lymph nodes and fever.
• Sometimes, secondary syphilis is mistaken for conditions such as Pityriasis rosea, Psoriasis and Lichen Planus.

3. Tertiary Syphilis

The tertiary stage of syphilis is when the infection is not treated properly and it starts affecting the organs such as Heart, Brain and nerves. It can be deadly as it can lead to a person becoming paralysed, blind or deaf.

• These sores usually appear after 6 weeks and lasts for 1-3 month.
• Secondary syphilis sores are usually rosy “copper penny” rashes, usually seen on the palms of hands and feet.
• The sores are moist, wart-like lesions in the groin region, swollen lymph nodes and fever.
• Sometimes, secondary syphilis is mistaken for conditions such as Pityriasis rosea, Psoriasis and Lichen Planus.

Other Various Types Of Syphilis

1. Latent Syphilis – The symptoms are not noticed but are present in the body, commonly known as the Hidden stage.
2. Congenital Syphilis – Pregnant women who have syphilis can easily pass the disease to the baby. This infection can spread to another organ which provides oxygen and various nutrients to the womb. So the infection is present during birth. This includes various symptoms
• Fever
• Rashes on the skin
• Yellow discolouration of the skin
• Rhinitis
• Changes in the bone
• Swollen liver and Spleen
• Hutchinson teeth (peg-shaped)
• Grey patches around the vagina or anal region
3. Neuro Syphilis – Infection of Syphilis spreads to the brain and Spinal cord. This can lead to Headache, Dementia and Numbness. It includes symptoms
• Dementia
• Hearing loss
• Seizures
• Weakness
• Abnormal Gait

Diagnosis

Blood Tests which are divided into two parts- Nontreponemal and treponemal tests

• Non-Treponemal test – It includes VDRL (Venereal disease research laboratory tests) and RPR (Rapid plasma reagin). False positives can also occur in viral infections. The confirmation of Non- treponemal is required with Treponemal tests such as with TPHA (Treponema pallidum particle agglutination assay).
• Direct Testing – It is carried out with a sample from the sore chancre- PCR Test (Polymerase chain reaction), DFA (Direct fluorescent antibody).

Complications

When the treatment is not provided, it leads to damage throughout the body. It can also give rise to HIV Infection and other problems during pregnancy.

1. Small Bumps or Tumors – In the late stage of syphilis, there is a gumma formation on the skin, liver or other organs. Sometimes, these gummas are treated with antibiotics.

2. Neurological Problem – Syphilis can cover the brain and Spinal cord including

• Headache
• Stroke
• Confusion
• Paralysis
• Problem in Bladder
• Meningitis (inflammation of the layer of tissues which are around the brain and spinal cord)

3. Eye Problems – When Syphilis travels to the eye region this is known as Ocular Syphilis. It includes

• Redness in the eye
• Vision changes
• Blindness

4. Ear Problems – When the infection of Syphilis travels to Ear it is known as Otosyphilis. It includes

• Hearing Loss
• Tinnitus
• Vertigo

5. Heart and Blood vessel problems – Syphilis may damage the valves of the heart thus there is bulging or swelling of the aorta.

6. HIV Infection – The sore of syphilis can easily spread through blood and ooze the blood easily.

Treatment

• Syphilis is easy to cure and is treated in the early stages. The first line of treatment is Penicillin. Penicillin kills bacterial growth.
• Penicillin is only advised to pregnant women who have Syphilis, For the person who is allergic to penicillin the procedure is done which is known as Penicillin Desensitization.
• After getting vaccination there is an immune reaction which is known as the Jarisch Herxheimer reaction which is seen after hours and includes
• Rashes
• Chills
• Headache
• Muscle and Joint Pain

These Symptoms usually go away after 24 hours.

Ayurvedic Aspect

In Ayurveda, Syphilis is known as Firang Roga which is a sexually transmitted disease. Syphilis is a venereal disease which is caused by an agent named Treponema pallidum bacteria. Syphilis is more commonly found in countries that come to India and due to their contact, it gradually started spreading. It is also known as Visitor’s disease as the people are in contact with the people of a foreign country and have sex with Foreign country women. Tridoshas are vitiated in Syphilis but Kapha doshas are mainly dominant which leads to serious chronic stages and these dhatus get intoxicated and lead to various complications. Firanga is classified into 3 types

• Bahya Firanga – Bahya Firanga is easily curable, Boils appear like an explosion, pain is less and bursting is like a wound.
• Abhyantar Firanga – Abhyantar Firanga is difficult to cure, this disease resembles rheumatic disease which causes pain and swelling.
• Bahyabhyantar Firanga – Bahyabhyantar Firanga occurs externally and internally.

Incubation Period

2-6 Weeks

Samprapti Ghatak

• Dosha – Pitta Pradhan
• Dushya – Rakta, Lasika
• Srotas – Shukra vaha Srotas
• Sroto Dushti – Sira Granthi
• Adhisthana – Gonads, all over the body

Chikitsa Sutra

1. Shodhana Chikitsa – Wound washing is necessary before shodhan Chikitsa and Lepa Chikitsa

• Raktamokshan
• Vran Shodhan- Triphala Kwath, Nimba Patra Swaras and Bhringraj Swaras.

2. Shaman Chikitsa – There are various medications which are useful in Syphilis.

Various Herbs Useful For Syphilis

1. Chopchini

Chopchini (Smilax china) is a miraculous plant with analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties that treat various venerable disorders and other skin issues. Chopchini acts as Rasayan which is a beneficial herb for Gonorrhoea and is helpful in 2 and 3rd stages of Syphilis, rejuvenates the cells of the body and maintains the proper molecular life of the cells. Chopchini is a natural blood purifier which removes toxins from the body.

2. Amalaki

Amalaki (Emblica officinalis) is a powerhouse of nutrients known as Indian Gooseberry. Amalaki is effective in balancing the tridoshas of the body, which is rich in antioxidants thus preventing ageing and rejuvenating the cellular structure for a long period of time. Emblica is a rich source of Vitamin C and it is helpful in enhancing the function of immune cells.

3. Neem

Neem (Azadirachta indica) is known as a blood purifier which has Anti-bacterial, Antihelminthic and immune-modulatory properties. The flowers of Neem are useful in treating various abdominal disorders and balancing Pitta and Kapha doshas. Neem is also helpful in fighting against various sexually transmitted diseases and balances the Aggravated Vata doshas in the body. This herb boosts the immune system and cures Tumors, blood and various skin disorders.

4. Guggul

Guggul (Commiphora mukul) It is a small tree which controls the Vata doshas and enhances the digestion and circulatory mechanism. It is useful in removing the Ama doshas from the body and improves the metabolism of the body. Guggul has regulative properties which heals wounds quickly and supports the healthy weight and joints of the body. Guggul has Lekhana property which scraps and clears the channels from the body.

5. Haritaki

Haritaki (Terminalia chebula) is a rejuvenator herb which improves digestion strength. This herb has marvellous properties such as Antipyretic, and anthelmintic in nature. Haritaki is an antioxidant and promotes proper bowel movement. Haritaki is helpful in balancing Vata and Pitta doshas, removes the obstruction in the channels and has Antibacterial properties.

6. Indian Echinacea

Indian Echinacea (Andrographis panniculata) is commonly known as Kalmegh, which is commonly known as a Blood purifier, thus boosting the immune system. Kalmegh has a healing property which reduces excessive inflammation. Kalmegh is rich in Silymarin which is helpful in destroying infection or bacteria present in STDs.

Herbal Remedies For Syphilis By Planet Ayurveda

Ayurveda is the holistic approach that helps a person to balance the body, mind and soul with the use of herbs, proper eating habits and rest. With the increase in health complications, people all across the world are looking for a safe medium to manage their ailments.
So Ayurveda is a new hope in this era because Ayurveda focuses on the root of disease and manages the symptoms without any adverse effects on health. Though herbs take time to show their effects they have positive results on the body without any side effects. All the formulations which are prepared by Planet Ayurveda are prepared using the best herbs and strictly follow the Ancient Principles of Ayurveda. The Remedies are 100% pure, natural and vegetarian which are free from any chemicals, preservatives and safe to use.

Product List

1. Neem Capsules
2. Curcumin Capsules
3. Gandhak Rasayan
4. Arogayavardhini Vati

Products Description

1. Neem Capsules

A Neem Capsule is a single herbal capsule formulation which is prepared as a standardised extract of Neem (Azadirachta indica). Neem is a strong antioxidant and is a rich source of Vitamin E which repairs the damaged skin cells, is useful in the detoxification of the body and increases the metabolism of the body. Neem has anti-inflammatory properties which reduce inflammation and a series of diseases. It contains Azadirachtin, Nimbin and Nimbolides which manage the symptoms of Syphilis in a natural way.

Dosage – 1 capsule twice daily after meals with plain water

2. Curcumin Capsules

A Curcumin Capsule is a single herbal capsule which is prepared by Planet Ayurveda using a standardised extract of Hardira (Curcuma longa). Curcumin has anti-bacterial and anti-inflammatory properties which are helpful in managing Syphilis and managing it in a natural way. Improves immunity and aids in the management of Oxidative and Inflammatory conditions. Reduces the symptoms of neurodegenerative conditions such as Dementia and Multiple Sclerosis and treats Liver disease.

Dosage – 2 capsules twice daily after meals with plain water.

3. Gandhak Rasayan

Gandhak Rasayan is an herbal tablet formulation manufactured by Planet Ayurveda using Purified Sulphur (Shuddh Gandhak). This herb is useful in managing Sexually transmitted diseases which is helpful in fighting against various bacterial infections. Gandhak is useful in boosting immunity and stimulates the process of digestion. Eliminates the toxins from the body and improves other bodily functions.

Dosage – 2 tablets twice daily after meals with plain water

4. Arogayavardhini Vati

Arogayavardhini Vati is a herbal tablet formulation which is manufactured by Planet Ayurveda using Haritaki (Terminalia chebula), Chitrak Mool (Plumbago zeylanica), Kutki (Picrorhiza kurroa) and more. Arogayavardhini Vati is helpful in managing digestive problems as it has Deepan and Pachan properties which removes toxins from the body and thus improves the metabolism of the body.

Dosage – 2 tablets twice daily after meals with plain water

Dietary Recommendation For Sexually Transmitted Disease

In Sexually Transmitted diseases, diet is equally important so one must follow this diet which is helpful in boosting the immune system and making the body resistant to infection

• Fruits and vegetables
• Oranges
• Lemons
• Bilberries
• Strawberries
• Garlic
• Onion
• Spinach
• Carrot
• Mushroom
• Cauliflower
• Cabbage
• Broccoli

Conclusion

Through vaginal, oral, and anal sex, sexually transmitted diseases and infections can spread from one person to another. Syphilis is a contagious illness brought on by an infection with the bacteria Treponema pallidum. In Ayurveda, Syphilis is known as Firang Roga which is a sexually transmitted disease. Further, we discussed various causes, symptoms and treatments along with its Ayurvedic Aspect which are helpful in Sexually transmitted diseases without any side effects.