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A study published in the International Surgery Journal reports that in India, almost 75% of the population may experience piles or hemorrhoids at some point in their life. Even though modern surgery is a solution, Ayurveda offers a natural and less invasive way for treating piles and other anorectal health issues.
This method has been mentioned in one of the earliest and most famous texts of Ayurveda, the Sushrut Samhita. In this text, Acharya Sushruta, who we call the ‘Father of Surgery', introduced Kshara (alkaline substances) and their use for complex conditions such as fistula-in-ano. Sushruta knew about surgical techniques that were revolutionary at that time and still continue to guide Ayurvedic surgical practices today.
If you are someone living with piles, fissures or fistulas, you might be worried about painful surgery and the long recovery period. That is where Kshara Sutra therapy differs. Today, many patients like you are choosing Kshara Sutra therapy over traditional surgery due to its faster healing and lower risk of complications. Let us discover everything you need to know about this trusted Ayurvedic treatment.
What Is Ayurvedic Kshara Sutra Therapy?
If you've heard about Kshara Sutra therapy but do not understand what it is, let us understand it in simple terms. Kshara Sutra therapy is an Ayurvedic treatment using a medicated thread that is used to heal diseases such as piles, fissures and fistulas. Kshara means alkaline and Sutra means thread. So, it is a thread coated with herbal medicines that naturally removes the unwanted tissues and heals the wound.
What is the History of Kshara Sutra?
The origins of Kshara Sutra are in ancient India. The very first detailed account of Kshara Sutra originates from the Sushrut Samhita written by the Indian surgeon Acharya Sushruta. His teachings contained information on how Kshara (alkaline substances) could be used safely for fistula-in-ano and other painful anorectal diseases.
Afterwards, Ayurvedic experts such as Acharya Chakrapani Datta (10th-11th century AD) and Acharya Bhav Mishra (16th-18th century AD) also described this treatment in their works. Because of them, this ancient knowledge has been handed down for generations and it is still used today.
Basic Concept of Kshara Sutra: Herbal Chemical Cauterisation
The basic principle of Kshara Sutra therapy is herbal chemical cauterisation. It simply means the medicated thread burns away, i.e, cauterises the diseased tissue slowly and safely. It also helps the area heal properly. What makes this therapy unique is that it does not harm any other healthy parts of your body.
How Is Kshara Sutra Prepared?
What makes Kshara Sutra so effective is the way that it is prepared. The preparation follows traditional Ayurvedic methods to make the thread healing and safe to use. Let us understand how this is done.
Step by Step Preparation of Kshara Sutra
- A sturdy linen thread (size 20) is chosen.
- The thread is spread on hangers inside a closed cabinet under a UV lamp.
- First, the thread is coated 11 times with Snuhi Ksheera (milky latex from Snuhi plant). This is basically the base.
- The thread is then dipped in Snuhi Ksheera between the 12th and 18th coating and rolled in Apamarga Kshar (alkaline powder from Apamarga plant). This gives it strong healing and antiseptic qualities.
- For the final 3 coatings, the thread is dipped again in Snuhi latex and rolled in Haldi Churna (Turmeric powder). The thread gets anti-inflammatory and wound-healing properties from turmeric.
At the conclusion of this process, the thread has precisely 21 coatings and is ready to use.
Role of Herbal Ingredients
- Snuhi Ksheera binds the medicine to the thread and is also good for healing.
- Apamarga Kshar is a cauterising agent which removes unhealthy tissues.
- Haldi Churna reduces inflammation and prevents infection.
How Does Kshara Sutra Help Heal Anorectal Diseases?
Now that you know how the thread is prepared, there must be a question in your mind: how can this simple medicated thread heal piles, fissures and fistulas? The answer lies in the way Kshara Sutra works inside your body to heal the area slowly and safely.
Gradual Cutting and Continuous Drainage
- The thread is tied or passed through the affected area (a fistulous tract, for example).
- It applies light pressure on the tissue and the thread cuts through diseased tissue layer by layer.
- Healthy surrounding tissue remains completely unaffected.
- The thread allows pus or fluid to drain continuously to avoid a buildup and infection.
How It Prevents Recurrence
The best benefit of Kshara Sutra therapy is that it prevents the recurrence of any disease:
- The alkaline property of Apamarga Kshar prevents bacteria from growing in it.
- Proper healing of the tract from within decreases the risk of recurrence.
- You can also avoid the risks of traditional surgery with this Ayurvedic treatment.
What Are the Benefits of Kshara Sutra Treatment?
If you are looking for a safe, simple and effective treatment for piles, fistula or fissures, Kshara Sutra therapy has a number of advantages. This is why it can be a great choice for you.
Outpatient Procedure
You do not have to stay in the hospital for days. Kshara Sutra treatment is done as an outpatient procedure, which means you can return home the same day. Most people only stay for 5 to 6 hours for basic observation.
Minimal Use of Anesthesia
It is done under local anesthesia, so you are awake and there are fewer risks than major surgeries that require general anesthesia.
Short Treatment Time
The entire process takes around 30-45 minutes. You don't have to go through lengthy surgical sessions.
Quick Recovery
You can return to your regular routine in 3 to 5 days. No long bed rest is necessary. This means you can return to work or daily activities quicker.
Low Risk of Recurrence
Kshara Sutra treatment for piles heals the problem from within. The chances of the disease returning are therefore very low.
No Incontinence Risk
People fear that anorectal surgeries will affect their bowel control. With Kshara Sutra, there is no risk of incontinence.
Simple Aftercare
The aftercare is easy and can be done at home. Ayurvedic medicines and sitz baths prescribed by your doctor can help you recover quickly.
Pro Tip: Most patients feel better in a few days. Follow your doctor's advice on diet and hygiene for faster recovery.
Which Conditions Can Be Treated With Kshara Sutra?
If you suffer from any anorectal disease and want a simple, natural cure, Kshara Sutra therapy can be your best option. It is used successfully by Ayurvedic doctors to cure several common and painful problems. Let us understand the conditions in which Kshara Sutra can help you.
Piles (Internal and External) : Internal and external piles can be treated with Kshara Sutra. The medicated thread is used to tie the base of the piles shutting off blood supply. The pile mass eventually falls off by itself without needing major surgery.
Anal Fissure : Kshara Sutra can treat chronic anal fissures, especially those that have troubled you for a long time. It reduces muscle spasm around the anus and helps heal the cut or tear.
Anal Fistula : If you have a simple or a complicated fistula, Kshara Sutra is a safe and reliable option. It cuts through the fistulous tract slowly and leaves the site clean and infection-free. Weekly changing of the thread aids in healing.
Pilonidal Sinus : Recurrent boils near your tailbone area may be due to a pilonidal sinus. Kshara Sutra therapy clears the sinus tract and stimulates healthy tissue growth to decrease its chances of recurrence.
Perianal Abscess : Painful, pus-filled boils around the anal region can be drained and healed with Kshara Sutra to prevent it from spreading.
Rectal Polyp: Even small or large rectal polyps can be removed with this treatment. The medicated thread cuts and heals the polyp without causing major injury to your body.
Pro Tip: Early treatment with Kshara Sutra can save you from more complicated surgeries later. If you experience any of these symptoms, always consult an Ayurvedic expert timely.
How Is Kshara Sutra Treatment Done for Piles?
If you have piles and are scared of surgery, Kshara Sutra treatment for piles can be a gentler option. The treatment works by cutting off blood supply to the pile mass in a controlled manner.
Ligation Technique
During the procedure, a trained Ayurvedic doctor ties the base of the pile mass with medicated Kshara Sutra thread. This thread acts like a band to prevent blood from flowing to the pile. Without blood, the pile tissue shrinks and falls off by itself. This occurs slowly, so there's much less pain and less chance of bleeding.
Yashtimadhu Oil Application
A soft gauze soaked in Yashtimadhu oil (licorice root oil) is placed inside the rectum to minimise your discomfort. This cools the area, reduces irritation from the thread and speeds up your healing.
Timeframe of Healing
The pile mass dries and falls off in 6 to 7 days. The area heals naturally and is completely recovered in 10 to 15 days. You can return to your normal routine shortly after.
Pro Tip: Don’t eat spicy and oily foods but drink lots of water following the procedure. This will help with a quicker recovery.
How Is Kshara Sutra Used for Anal Fissures?
Anal fissures are tiny cuts across your anus that can cause sharp pain and bleeding. If you are suffering from fissures for some time, Kshara Sutra can help.
How Kshara Sutra Relieves Muscle Spasm
One main reason that fissures do not heal is because the anal muscles continue to spasm (tighten) constantly. Kshara Sutra is placed in the area to relax this spasm. When the muscles relax, blood flow to the area improves and healing is faster. In case the fissure is severe, the doctor may also use the thread to remove the whole fissured tissue.
Who Can and Cannot Opt for This Treatment
Not everyone requires Kshara Sutra. If you have a minor fissure, Ayurvedic medicines and sitz baths may be enough. But for chronic or stubborn fissures that do not respond to regular treatment, Kshara Sutra is very effective.
This procedure is generally not advised for people with rectal cancer, severe infections or pregnancy. You should always ask your Ayurvedic doctor if it's a good fit for you.
Pro Tip: Soaking in warm water (sitz bath) daily after the procedure reduces pain and helps you heal faster.
How Does Kshara Sutra Cure Anal Fistulas?
An anal fistula is an abnormal tunnel between the interior of the anus and the skin outside it. It can cause pain, swelling, and occasionally pus discharge. Kshara Sutra treatment for fistula is a natural alternative to surgery. This is how it is done:
Minor Surgical Insertion of Thread : First of all, the doctor identifies the fistulous tract. A small hole is made in the tract for passing the Kshara Sutra thread through. The thread stays inside to do its job.
Weekly Thread Replacement: This medicated thread is replaced once a week. Every time a new thread is applied, the tract is also cut and cleaned. This method avoids any sudden cutting or damage, making the process safer for you.
Natural Drainage & Healing : With the Kshara Sutra, the infected fluid or pus can drain continually. This prevents painful abscesses. The fistulous tract slowly becomes smaller and heals completely. The average time of total healing is 3 to 4 weeks depending on the fistula size and complexity.
Who Should Not Opt for Kshara Sutra Therapy?
Kshara Sutra therapy is safe and effective for most people but not for everyone. If you're thinking about this treatment, you must know if you're a candidate. Some health conditions make Kshara Sutra inappropriate or dangerous for you.
The following is a basic list of people who should avoid this therapy:
1. Pregnant Women: Your doctor will recommend against Kshara Sutra if you are pregnant. The procedure may put your body under unneeded stress and that could affect both you and your baby.
2. Patients with Rectal Cancer: Kshara Sutra is not for cancer treatment. In case you have rectal cancer, you'll require medical treatment and surgery.
3. People with Hepatitis: If you have any type of Hepatitis (Hepatitis A, Hepatitis B, Hepatitis C etc.), this increases your risk for infection. In such instances, this therapy is not recommended.
4. Patients with Leprosy: Leprosy damages your skin and nerves and slows down healing. If you have this condition, Kshara Sutra is not fit for you.
5. Other Severe infections or Systemic Illnesses: For major infections, immune system disorders, or serious health issues, you should consider other treatments.
What Aftercare Is Needed After Kshara Sutra Treatment for Piles?
If you have undergone Kshara Sutra treatment for piles, proper aftercare can make your recovery quicker and help you avoid any complications. The good thing is that the majority of these aftercare steps are simple and you can easily do these at home.
Diet & Lifestyle Changes
- Consume a balanced and light diet.
- Avoid deep-fried, spicy and oily foods that can upset your system.
- Include more fibre-rich foods like fruits, whole grains and vegetables to soften your stools and avoid straining.
- Drink a lot of water. Your bowels move easily if you are hydrated.
Toilet Habits
- Stop sitting on the toilet for long.
- Never strain during bowel movements as it may reopen the wound and slow down healing.
- Maintain good toilet hygiene to avoid infection.
Pro Tip: You can prevent constipation following surgery by drinking 8 to 10 glasses of water daily and including fibre rich foods in every meal. This simple habit can ease your discomfort and speed up your recovery.
Final Words
We understand the degree of pain, embarrassment and discomfort that you have to face if you have piles, fistulas or fissures. But now you have a milder, natural option out there for you. Kshara Sutra treatment is a time honoured gift from Ayurveda. Its unique application of a medicated thread helps your body to heal itself naturally without needing surgery or long recovery times.
If you are considering Kshara Sutra treatment for piles, consult our experienced Ayurvedic doctors today. Just dial 0129-4264323 and get answers to all your health questions.
FAQs
Is Kshara Sutra treatment required in all piles cases?
No, Kshara Sutra treatment is not required for every case of piles. Some mild or early piles cases can be treated with Ayurvedic medicines, diet changes and sitz baths. Only if the piles are severe, large or do not respond to other treatments, Kshara Sutra is advised. You could ask your Ayurvedic doctor if it's right for you.
Can constipation be treated with Kshara Sutra?
No, Kshara Sutra treatment can not treat constipation. Constipation is a digestive problem and not a surgical problem. You need more fibre, more water and good toilet habits. Ayurvedic medicines like Haritaki Churna can help. Your doctor can recommend the right solution for constipation.
How painful is the Kshara Sutra treatment?
Most people feel only mild to moderate discomfort. The treatment is performed under local anesthesia. You may experience soreness afterwards as the thread works but this can be easily managed with Ayurvedic medicines and warm sitz baths. Follow your doctor's advice for better comfort.
How much time does Kshara Sutra take to cure?
The total time of treatment depends on what disease you have. Piles heal in 10-15 days. It may take a few days to weeks for fissures to heal. Fistulas and pilonidal sinus cases take 3-4 weeks. You'll need to visit your doctor weekly to replace the thread until you are fully healed.
Is Kshara Sutra better than surgery?
Yes, Kshara Sutra treatment is a natural, less invasive method. It has lesser chances of recurrence, faster recovery, no muscle damage and less pain. You can generally resume your regular routine within a few days.
Is Kshara Karma safe?
Yes, Kshara Karma is safe when performed by a trained Ayurvedic doctor. It aims to eliminate unwanted tissues with a herbal alkaline paste. It does not damage healthy skin and avoids bigger surgeries. Aftercare and proper hygiene can help you avoid infections or complications.
Is Kshara Sutra permanent?
Kshara Sutra is not a permanent thread. Your doctor will replace it every week as the tract heals. The full treatment cures it permanently but regular thread changes are a part of healing.
