From an Ayurvedic perspective, Rheumatoid Arthritis closely corresponds to a condition known as Amavata. In Amavata, toxin accumulation (Ama) combines with aggravated Vata to create a perfect storm of inflammation in the joints. Put simply, when one’s digestive fire (Agni) becomes weak, due to improper diet, irregular eating habits, or high stress – food is not fully digested, leading to Ama in the body.

Vata dosha, when aggravated, causes symptoms like pain, dryness, and creaking in the joints. Meanwhile, Kapha dosha (which provides lubrication and stability in joints) can become mixed with Ama, leading to heaviness, swelling, and stiffness.Ayurveda also notes systemic signs like lethargy (Alasya) and poor appetite/digestive power (Agni Mandya) in Amavata patients, reflecting the accumulation of toxins in the system.

According to Ayurvedic principles, the following are key causes and triggers of rheumatoid arthritis:

• Weak Digestive Fire (Mandagni): Poor digestion is the prime culprit. When the digestive enzyme (Agni) is weak or irregular, food isn’t fully metabolized, producing Ama (toxins) that accumulate in the body
  
  
• Improper Diet and Food Choices: A diet that aggravates Kapha and vitiates Vata will contribute to RA. This includes excessive intake of cold, raw, or stale foods; heavy and oily items (like fried foods, red meat, excess dairy); and incompatible food combinations.
  
  
• Sedentary Lifestyle and Kapha Accumulation: Lack of physical activity slows down metabolism and circulation, leading to weight gain and toxin accumulation.
  
  
• Vata-Aggravating Behaviors: . Irregular routines (chaotic meal times, erratic sleep patterns), overexertion or excessive physical activity without proper rest, exposure to cold and dry weather, and high levels of mental stress or anxiety will disturb Vata.
  
  
• Accumulation of Emotional Stress (Adhi): Ayurveda recognizes the mind-body link. Long-term emotional stress, grief, or unresolved anger can impair digestion and immunity (often by upsetting Vata and Pitta doshas), indirectly contributing to conditions like RA.
  
  

You should consult a doctor (Ayurvedic or rheumatology specialist) if you experience any of the following:

• Persistent joint pain and swelling: If you have pain, warmth, or swelling in one or more joints that lasts more than a couple of weeks without improvement, it’s time to see a doctor.
  
  
• Morning stiffness lasting > 30–45 minutes: One hallmark of RA is prolonged stiffness in the joints each morning or after inactivity. If you find that it takes an hour or more to “loosen up” every morning, you should get evaluated.
  
  
• Symmetrical joint symptoms: Arthritis that affects joints on both sides (for example, both left and right wrists or both knees) is characteristic of rheumatoid arthritis.
  
  
• Fever, fatigue, or unexplained weight loss with joint pain: RA is systemic, so sometimes one might experience low-grade fevers, constant fatigue, or weight loss along with joint issues.