Peptic Ulcers [Siddha Terminology: Gunmam]

Peptic ulcers are open sores that develop on the inside lining of the stomach and the upper portion of the small intestine. The most common symptom of a peptic ulcer is stomach pain. Gastric ulcers occur on the inside of the stomach. Duodenal ulcers occur on the inside of the upper portion of the duodenum part of the small intestine.

The most common causes of peptic ulcers are infection with the bacterium Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) and long-term use of aspirin and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) (Advil, Aleve, others). Stress and spicy foods worsens the symptoms of peptic ulcers.

In siddha medicine Gunmam is caused due to imbalance in the vatha dosham in the abdomen causing symptoms of pain, abdominal distension, chest burn, nausea, vomiting and indigestion. Medicines to balance the increased vatham in abdomen helps to relieve the symptoms.