A Stroke in Ayurveda is known as "Pakshaghaat".

Ayurvedic texts mention mild purgation as a special form of treatment for stroke. This treatment is usually not recommended in Ayurveda for any other neurological condition resulting from a disturbed "Vata" dosha. It is believed that this treatment helps to reverse the pathology in stroke, by normalizing the "Prana Vayu" (which regulates the functions of the brain, or energy levels) and bringing about normal functioning of the blood vessels, muscles and tendons. Castor oil, and Haritaki (Terminalia chebula), treated with castor oil, are recommended for this purpose. For regular use it will then only make a great difference as recovery takes time.

The oils below will help improve blood flow and allow energy to pass through the body which initially was being blocked.

Massage of the entire body using oils, followed by steam fomentation, this is considered an important part of the treatment for stroke. Bala (Sida cordifolia) oil and Narayan (Asparagus racemosus) oil are commonly used for massage, while a decoction of Nirgundi( Vitex negundo), Dashmool (Ten roots), or Erandmool (Root of Ricinus communis) is used for medicated steam fomentation.

"Basti" or medicated enema is also a unique part of Ayurvedic treatment for stroke. Both the "Niruh" and "Anuvaasan" types of enemas are used in an alternating fashion. Dashmool decoction is usually recommended for Niruh Basti, and Til oil (Oil of Sesame) is recommended for Anuvaasan Basti. The MAHA oil is also great to massage with.

Please google the terms online if you are unfamiliar, they are terms used in Ayurveda.

Medicated nasal drops are used to stimulate and bring about early recovery of the sense organs. This therapy is known as "Nasya". Anu Tel (oil), Shadbindu Tel, Panchendriya Vardhan Tel and medicated ghee are used for this purpose.
Traditional Ayurvedic formulations used in the treatment of stroke are: Yograj Guggulu, Mahayograj Guggulu, Vata Vidhvansa Ras, Tapyadi Loha, Sameerpannag Ras, Vata Gajankusha Ras, Ekangveer Ras and Bruhat Vata Chintamani.

Herbal medicines useful in this condition are: Sarpagandha (Rauwolfia serpentina), Rasna (Pluchea lanceolata), Dashmool, Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera), Bala, Maash (Phaseolus mungo) and Nirgundi.


Results with treatment depend upon the amount of permanent damage resulting from stroke, the time of commencement of treatment, the presence of other complications like high blood pressure and diabetes, and the overall physical and mental conditioning of the patient.