Natural Ayurvedic Treatment for Low Platelet Count - Boost Platelets Safely

Abstract

Thrombocytopenia is a condition characterized by a reduced platelet count in the bloodstream. Platelets play a crucial role in blood clotting,so when their level drops  it can cause easy bruising, bleeding from small cuts, and in some cases, more serious bleeding. This condition can be caused by several things, such as problems with the bone marrow, infections, certain medications, or diseases that cause the body to destroy platelets too quickly. Symptoms include small red or purple spots on the skin, bleeding gums, and heavy periods. To diagnose it, doctors usually do blood tests and may look at the bone marrow. Treatment depends on the cause and can include medications, platelet transfusions, or other treatments to address the underlying problem. In this article we will discuss this in more detail along with its Ayurvedic overview and its management.

Introduction

Thrombocytopenia is a medical condition where there is a deficiency in the number of platelets in the blood. Platelets, or thrombocytes, are vital for blood clotting, which helps control bleeding when the body is injured. In cases of thrombocytopenia, platelet levels drop below the normal range of 150,000 to 450,000 platelets per microliter of blood, increasing the risk of abnormal bleeding and bruising. The severity of thrombocytopenia can vary, depending on how significantly the platelet count is reduced. In mild cases, symptoms may be minimal or absent, while in more severe instances, spontaneous bleeding, including internal bleeding, may occur, posing significant health risks.

Stages of Thrombocytopenia

Thrombocytopenia is classified into different stages based on the severity of the low platelet count. These stages help assess the risk of bleeding and determine the appropriate treatment.

1. Mild Thrombocytopenia

1. Platelet Count: Between 100,000 and 150,000 platelets per microliter of blood.
2. Symptoms: Often no noticeable symptoms, or minor issues like light bruising or slight bleeding. People with mild thrombocytopenia typically do not face serious health risks.
3. Bleeding Risk: Low. The risk of bleeding is minimal, and most people can carry on with normal activities without significant issues.

2. Moderate Thrombocytopenia

1. Platelet Count: Between 50,000 and 100,000 platelets per microliter of blood.
2. Symptoms: May experience some bruising, nosebleeds, or longer bleeding times from minor injuries. The bleeding tendency is increased but generally not severe.
3. Bleeding Risk: Moderate. The risk of abnormal bleeding is higher, but it typically isn't severe enough to cause major health problems.

3. Severe Thrombocytopenia

1. Platelet Count: Between 20,000 and 50,000 platelets per microliter of blood.
2. Symptoms: Frequent bruising, nosebleeds, and gum bleeding. There’s a higher chance of spontaneous bleeding, which can affect different parts of the body. Close monitoring and medical care are needed.
3. Bleeding Risk: High. The risk of significant bleeding is much greater, and treatment such as platelet transfusions may be necessary.

4. Very Severe Thrombocytopenia

1. Platelet Count: Less than 20,000 platelets per microliter of blood.
2. Symptoms: Serious and spontaneous bleeding can occur, including internal bleeding like in the brain, which can be life-threatening. Bruising and small, red spots under the skin (petechiae) are common. Immediate medical intervention is critical.
3. Bleeding Risk: Extremely high. The risk of severe bleeding is significantly elevated, and without treatment, it can lead to major complications or even death.

Causes and Risk Factors

Thrombocytopenia can arise from several factors that either impact the production of platelets, accelerate their destruction, or cause them to be sequestered in the spleen. Some of the primary causes and risk factors are :

Decreased Platelet Production

1. Bone Marrow Disorders: Conditions such as leukemia, myelodysplastic syndromes, and aplastic anemia.
2. Deficiencies in Vitamins: A lack of essential nutrients like vitamin B12, folate, or iron can disrupt platelet production.
3. Infections: Some viral infections (e.g., HIV, hepatitis, dengue) can damage bone marrow and reduce platelet output.
4. Cancer Treatments: Chemotherapy and radiation therapies can negatively affect platelet production by damaging bone marrow.
5. Medications: Certain drugs, including chemotherapy agents, can suppress platelet production in the bone marrow.

2. Increased Platelet Destruction

1. Immune Thrombocytopenic Purpura (ITP): This is an autoimmune disorder where the body’s immune system mistakenly attacks and destroys platelets.
2. Disseminated Intravascular Coagulation (DIC): A condition in which abnormal clotting leads to the rapid consumption and destruction of platelets.
3. Autoimmune Diseases: Disorders like lupus or rheumatoid arthritis can cause the immune system to destroy platelets.
4. Medications: Some drugs, including heparin, quinine, or specific antibiotics, may cause an immune response that results in platelet destruction.
5. Infections: Both bacterial and viral infections, particularly in cases of sepsis, can lead to platelet destruction.

3. Platelet Sequestration

• Enlarged Spleen (Splenomegaly): When the spleen becomes swollen, due to conditions such as cirrhosis or infections, it may trap platelets, causing a lower platelet count in the bloodstream.

4. Dilutional Thrombocytopenia

• Massive Blood Transfusion: When large amounts of blood are transfused, the platelets in the donor blood may be diluted, leading to a low platelet count in the recipient.

Risk Factors for Thrombocytopenia

1. Age: Older individuals may have a greater risk, as bone marrow function tends to decline with age.
2. Pre-existing Health Conditions:
3. Autoimmune Disorders: People suffering from autoimmune diseases, like lupus or rheumatoid arthritis, may have a higher risk.
4. Cancer: Chemotherapy and radiation treatments for cancer can suppress platelet production in the bone marrow.
5. Liver Disease: Chronic liver conditions, such as cirrhosis, may cause an enlarged spleen, increasing the likelihood of platelet sequestration.
6. Infections: People with acute or chronic infections, especially viral ones, are more prone to thrombocytopenia.
7. Medications: Several types of medications can increase the chances of developing thrombocytopenia. These include:
8. Heparin: A blood thinner that can lead to heparin-induced thrombocytopenia.
9. Chemotherapy Drugs: These can suppress bone marrow activity and reduce platelet production.
10. Antibiotics and Anticonvulsants: These drugs can affect platelet production or cause them to be destroyed.
11. Genetic Factors: Inherited disorders like Wiskott-Aldrich Syndrome and Bernard-Soulier Syndrome can increase the risk of thrombocytopenia.
12. Excessive Alcohol Consumption: Chronic alcohol use can interfere with platelet production in the bone marrow, increasing the risk of thrombocytopenia.
13. Pregnancy: Thrombocytopenia can sometimes occur during pregnancy, especially in conditions like gestational thrombocytopenia or HELLP syndrome.

Symptoms

Symptoms of low Platelets count or Thrombocytopenia Includes

1. Easy or Unexplained Bruising- Individuals may notice they bruise easily, even from minor bumps or injuries, with bruises appearing larger than usual.
2. Petechiae (Small Red or Purple Spots)- Tiny, pinpoint red or purple dots may appear on the skin, particularly on the legs, caused by small blood vessel rupture under the skin.
3. Prolonged Bleeding- Cuts or wounds may bleed for an extended period, and bleeding from minor injuries (e.g., from shaving or dental work) might not stop quickly.
4. Spontaneous Bleeding- In severe cases, people may experience bleeding without injury, such as nosebleeds, mouth bleeding, or other internal bleeding.
5. Heavy or Prolonged Menstrual Periods- Women may experience unusually heavy or extended menstrual bleeding, known as menorrhagia, due to the low platelet count.
6. Fatigue and Weakness- A lack of platelets can lead to increased fatigue, weakness, or overall tiredness, often linked to ongoing blood loss.
7. Internal Bleeding
8. Bleeding inside the body may cause symptoms like:
9. Headaches if bleeding occurs in the brain.
10. Dizziness or fainting from internal blood loss.
11. Abdominal pain from bleeding in the gastrointestinal tract.
12. Joint swelling and pain if bleeding occurs in the joints.
13. Blood in Urine or Stool
14. Internal bleeding can sometimes lead to visible blood in urine (hematuria) or stools (melena), indicating bleeding in the urinary or digestive systems.
15. Shortness of Breath- Severe internal bleeding, especially in the lungs, can cause difficulty breathing and chest discomfort.
16. Paleness- Pale or ashen skin may appear, often due to reduced blood circulation or internal bleeding.

Diagnosis

To Diagnose Thrombocytopenia, a healthcare provider will ask about medical and family history, along with symptoms, and perform a physical examination to check for signs of bleeding

Tests to diagnose thrombocytopenia are

• Complete Blood count (CBC)
• Blood smear
• Bone marrow Tests

Treatment

Treatment for thrombocytopenia depends on its cause, severity, and the symptoms experienced. Here are common treatment options

1. 1. Observation and Monitoring

Mild cases with no significant symptoms may only require observation. Regular monitoring of platelet counts and avoiding activities that could lead to injury or bleeding may be recommended.

2. Platelet Transfusions

In cases of severe thrombocytopenia or when there's active bleeding, a platelet transfusion may be necessary. This involves infusing platelets from a donor to temporarily raise the platelet count and reduce the risk of bleeding.

3. Medications

• Corticosteroids (e.g., prednisone)
• Intravenous Immunoglobulin (IVIG)
• Thrombopoietin Receptor Agonists (e.g., eltrombopag, romiplostim)
• Immunosuppressive Drugs

4. Plasma Exchange

(Plasmapheresis)- For conditions like Thrombotic Thrombocytopenic Purpura (TTP), plasma exchange may be performed to remove harmful substances in the blood that are causing platelet destruction.

Ayurvedic overview

According to Ayurveda, thrombocytopenia can be correlated with Raktapitta.When Pitta is vitiated, it increases the amount of Rakta (blood) due to its Usna (hot) quality, causing the blood to flow in different directions. Raktapitta, a condition involving the vitiation of both Pitta and Rakta (blood), is classified into three types based on the nature of the imbalance and its symptoms:

1. Urdhvaga- Urdhvaga is characterized by the involvement of the Snigdha (unctuous) and Ushna (hot) qualities, which disturb the combination of Kapha and Pitta. This imbalance leads to the oozing of impure blood from the upward passages or openings of the body, such as the mouth (Mukha), ears (Karna), eyes (Akshi), and nostrils (Nasa).
2. Adhoga- Adhoga is characterized by the qualities of Ruksha (dry) and Ushna (hot), which lead to the disturbance of Vata and Pitta. This imbalance results in the discharge of impure blood from the downward passages or openings of the body, such as the rectum (Guda), genital tract (Yoni), and urinary passage (Mutra marga).
3. Tiryaka- When all the Doshas become imbalanced and are circulating in the bloodstream, the resulting condition manifests beneath the skin, leading to symptoms like skin eruptions, inflammation, or other subcutaneous disturbances.

Natural Supplements to Boost Platelet Coun

While modern medicine doesn't have a specific treatment for low platelet counts, natural supplements can be helpful in managing thrombocytopenia. Some of these natural remedies include:

1. Papaya Leaf Juice: Papaya leaf juice enhances the enzyme ALOX12, which increases platelet production by 10-15 times.
2. Wheatgrass Juice: Rich in chlorophyll, wheatgrass promotes the production of thrombocytes, aiding in platelet count increase.
3. Aloe Vera Juice: Aloe vera is known for its ability to prevent various blood infections and can support the treatment of low platelet counts.
4. Beetroot Juice: This juice helps protect platelets from damage caused by free radicals and supports their production.
5. Pumpkin Seeds: Rich in Vitamin A, pumpkin seeds help stimulate platelet production.
6. Raisins: Raisins are an excellent source of iron, a key nutrient to address iron deficiency, which is often linked to low platelet counts.
7. Vitamin B12 and Folate-Rich Foods: Foods like eggs, meat, and chicken are high in Vitamin B12, which is essential for healthy blood cells. Folate, commonly found in green leafy vegetables like spinach, also plays a crucial role in supporting blood health.

Herbal Remedies for Low platelets counts by Planet Ayurveda

Planet Ayurveda is a GMP certified ayurvedic company. They provide a wide range of natural, herbal formulations to support health and manage chronic disease. Planet Ayurveda’s Formulations are 100% pure, natural, chemical free and safe to use. All their formulations  are prepared under the supervision of MD (Ayurveda) scholars. Their products focus on holistic care, addressing the root cause of ailments through personalised treatment and lifestyle modification. Planet Ayurveda helps to manage many chronic diseases through their formulations they offer completely natural and effective solutions like the ITP Care Pack for Advanced Stages and ITP Level-2 Platelet Gush Pack to help treat Immune Thrombocytopenia (ITP).

ITP Level-2 (Platelet Gush Pack)

The ITP Level-2 (Platelet Gush Pack) by Planet Ayurveda is a herbal formulation designed to naturally support healthy platelet levels and strengthen the immune system. This pack contains a blend of potent Ayurvedic herbs known for their rejuvenating and blood-purifying properties. It helps promote balanced immunity, supports overall blood health, and enhances the body's natural ability to maintain platelet count.

Product Description

1. Spirulina Capsules

This Capsule is a standardised pure extract of Spirulina (Spirulina platensis). Spirulina is a type of blue-green algae that is rich in essential nutrients, including proteins, vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. It is particularly noted for its high levels of iron and vitamin B12, both of which are vital for the production of healthy blood cells, including platelets.

Dosage : I capsule two times a day with normal water after a meal

2. Immune Booster

This Capsule is an Extract of Grape seed (Vitis vinifera), Go- Piyush (Bovine colostrums), Bhumi Amla (Phyllanthus niruri), Amalaki (Emblica officinalis). The name indicates that the product is primarily aimed at boosting the immune system and offering protection against different viral infections. It is formulated with Vitamin C, a time-tested herbal remedy recognized for its role in supporting platelet production and improving blood health. This essential nutrient helps enhance the body's natural defenses while promoting the production of platelets, making it particularly useful for individuals with low platelet counts.

Dosage : 1 Capsule two times a day with normal water after a meal

3. Kumar Kalyan Ras

Kumar Kalyan Ras of Planet Ayurveda are made up of different type of minerals or their ashes such as Loha Bhasama (Iron Ash), Swarna Bhasma (Ash of Gold), Makshika Bhasama (Ash of copper-iron pyrite), Ghritkumari Rasa (Extract of Aloe Vera juice), Shuddha Parad (Purified Mercury) etc. Kumar Kalyan Ras is known for its ability to stimulate the production of blood cells, including platelets, by nourishing the bone marrow. It helps improve blood circulation and promotes the creation of healthy blood cells.

Dosage : 1 tablet two times a day, chew it with lukewarm water. 

4. Green Essentials

This Capsule is standardised pure extract of  Grape seed (Vitis vinifera), Wheat Grass (Triticum sativum), Spirulina (Arthrospira platensis), Green Tea (Camellia sinensis), Amla (Embllica Officinalis). Green Essential is enriched with ingredients like wheatgrass, spirulina, and chlorella, all of which are rich in vitamins and minerals that help support the production of healthy blood cells, including platelets.

Dosage : 1 capsule two times a day with lukewarm water.

5. Punarnava Mandur

This Tablet is a blend of Punarnava (Boerhaavia diffusa), Shunti (Zingiber officinale), Pippali (Piper longum), Maricha (Piper nigrum), Amalaki (Emblica Officanalis), Haritaki (Terminalia Chebula), Chavya (Piper Chaba) etc. All these herbs help in improving the functioning of the bone marrow and enhancing the overall quality of blood thus improving the platelet count.

Dosage : 2 Tablets two times a day, with normal water

6. Brahmi Chyawanprash

This preparation is prepared with Brahmi (Bacopa Monnieri), Dashmoola, Bala (Sida Cordifolia), Ashwagandha (Withania Somnifera), Bhumi amla (Phyllanthus Niruri), Shatavari (Asparagus Racemosus), Nagarmotha (Cyperus Rotundus) Etc. This herbal formulation helps to boost Immunity. Its rich combination of herbs can help nourish and cleanse the blood, which is essential for improving platelet count.

Dosage: 1 tsp Daily after meal

7. Ashwagandha capsule

This capsule is standardised pure extract of Ashwagandha (Withania Somnifera). Ashwagandha is known to improve bone marrow function, which plays a key role in the production of blood cells, including platelets. By enhancing overall blood health, it may help in increasing platelet count.

Dosage : 2 Capsule two times a day with normal water after a meal

8. Pitta Balance

This capsule is a extract of Jahar Mohra Pishti (Natural Calcium Compound), Kaharava Pishti (Natural Calcium Compound), Akik Pishti (Agate Compound), Mukta Pishti (Natural Calcium Compound from pearls). It helps to balance pitta dosha which is responsible for the low platelets count as per ayurveda.

 Dosage : 1 capsule Two times a day with normal water after a meal

9. Plato Plan Syrup

This herbal syrup is a blend of Eranda Karkati (Carica Papaya), Giloy (Tinospora Cordifolia), wheat Grass (Triticum Aestivum), Ashwagandha (Withania Somnifera), Amalaki (Emblica Officinalis), Shigru (Moringa Pterygosperma), Jeevanti (Leptadenia Reticulata) etc. Its herbal syrup helps stimulate bone marrow activity, which is crucial for the production of platelets and healthy blood cells. <

Dosage : 2 tsp, two times a day

10. Jaimangal Ras

Jaimangal Ras is an ayurvedic medicine which is used to balance all three dosha. The major ingredients are Shuddha gandhak (Purified form of sulphur), Vanga Bhasma (Bhasma of Tin), Makshika Bhasma (Bhasma of copper and iron Pyrite) etc. This formulation helps to balance out tridosha . It helps to manage anemia and platelets as well. 

Dosage : 1 Tablet Daily , Chew it with Lukewarm water

Conclusion

In conclusion, low platelet count (thrombocytopenia) can be caused by several factors like infections, bone marrow issues, or nutrient deficiencies. Treatment typically focuses on identifying the cause and addressing it. Natural remedies, such as certain Ayurvedic supplements, can help improve platelet production and blood health. These remedies support the immune system, reduce inflammation, and promote healthy blood cells.