ITP stands for Immune Thrombocytopenic Purpura. It is also called Thrombocytopenia which is defined by low platelet levels in the blood. It is an autoimmune disorder which is a rare condition. Platelets are one of the components of blood cells which play a very important role in stopping bleeding by forming clots. When any blood vessel is injured or damaged, Platelets get signals from the body and reach the site of injury. Then they help stop bleeding by the formation of clots on the site of bleeding. When the platelet counts in the patient’s body are low, the body is unable to form clots on the site of injury and there is lots of bleeding even on small bruises. Immune Thrombocytopenia is a condition in which the immune system of the body clears platelets from the blood circulation. Due to this reason, the level of Platelets goes down in the body. ITP is a chronic condition which may need treatment for a lifetime. ITP can be divided into two categories that are Primary and Secondary. Primary ITP occurs when immune system attacks on platelets and Secondary ITP occurs due to chronic infections or autoimmune disorders which affect platelet levels in the blood.

The main cause responsible for ITP is autoimmunity in which T-cells (white blood cells) of the body attack on the platelets. The immune system can also be affected by some other causes like any medication, other autoimmune disorders, pregnancy or any infections (viral).

Symptoms of ITP

Some other common symptoms of Immune Thrombocytopenia Purpura (ITP) are as follows:

  • Bleeding which may be internal and from the skin looks like tiny red spots which are caused by the leaking of blood from blood vessels.
  • Frequent nose bleeding and gum bleeding.
  • Heavy menstrual bleeding.
  • Hematomas in which skin feels like a lump.
  • Easy and excessive Bruising (purpura).
  • Generalised weakness.
  • Blood in urine and stool.
  • Prolonged bleeding from cuts or any other injuries.

Diagnosis of ITP

Diagnosis for ITP includes a physical examination in which the bleeding under the skin is checked and a medical history of any other autoimmune disorders. Other diagnostic tests that can help in the diagnosis of ITP are as follows:

  • Complete blood count (CBC) to check platelet levels in the blood.
  • Peripheral blood smear in which platelets are examined under the microscope.
  • Blood clot test to check clotting time of blood.
  • Bone marrow biopsy.

Ayurvedic Herbs for ITP and Low Platelets

Ayurvedic herbs are natural and the potency of these herbs is higher as compared to the drugs in which chemical extract is used. Ayurvedic formulations as they are made up of natural sources work more efficiently as compared to other drugs in which chemicals are used. Many Ayurvedic herbs are very useful in the management of Immune Thrombocytopenia Purpura (ITP). Here are some of the common herbs that are effective in the treatment of ITP:

  • Giloy (Tinospora cordifolia) is a very effective herb in Ayurveda which helps in the management of ITP. It helps in balancing Vata and Pitta dosha in the body which is responsible for ITP. It is also helpful in increasing platelet count and increases body strength to combat foreign bodies.
  • Punarnava (Boerhavia diffusa) helps in boosting the immune system of the body.
  • Curcumin (Curcuma longa) helps to remove toxins from the body and purifies the blood. It also helps in improving the immune system of the body.
  • Aloe vera (Aloe barbadensis miller) juice is very effective in reducing bleeding from the mouth and gums. 
  • Papaya leaves (Carica papaya) help in increasing platelet counts in the body. 
  • Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) helps improve the body's immune system and also increases WBC and RBC along with platelets.
  • Gotukola (Centella asiatica) increases platelet count, helps improve blood circulation and is also useful in treating blood clots.
  • Wheatgrass (Thinopyrum intermedium) helps in decreasing the clotting time of the blood and helps in increasing the platelet count in the body.