Mast Cell Activation Syndrome (MCAS) - Symptoms, Causes, and Ayurvedic Treatment

Mast Cell Activation Syndrome (MCAS) is an immunological condition. In this, there is an excessive release of chemical mediators (like leukotrienes, histamines, prostaglandin, and tryptase) by mast cells, leading to a range of chronic symptoms. The symptoms may include cardiovascular, gastrointestinal, neurological, dermatological, and respiratory issues. Mast cells are part of the immune system. They can be found all over your body, but especially in the bone marrow and surrounding blood vessels.

When people are allergic to allergens such as drugs, foods, and insect venom, mast cells often release chemical mediators. These mediators generate allergy symptoms such as itching, mucous, and inflammation. Keep reading to learn the causes, symptoms, and Ayurvedic treatment for MCAS.

Causes of MCAS

Mast cells help fight infections and are also involved in allergic reactions. When an individual comes in contact with an allergen, mast cells release mediators that cause the body’s reaction to the substance. In a healthy individual, these mediators help to protect and heal, while in some individuals, they cause distressing symptoms. 

The mast cells are activated by–

  • Infections
  • Medications
  • Insect/ or reptile venom
  • Fragrances
  • Stress
  • Exercise
  • Food

Additionally, there are three types of MCAS, which are differentiated based on the cause.

  1. Primary MCAS: It develops when a specific mutation, known as the KIT D816V mutation, is discovered when mast cells express CD25, with or without a confirmed mastocytosis. Mastocytosis occurs when the body develops an excess of mast cells.
  2. Secondary MCAS: It develops as an indirect outcome of another immunologic disease, an IgE-mediated allergen (food or environmental allergy), or hypersensitivity to another trigger.
  3. Idiopathic MCAS: The cause of MCAS cannot be determined. Unlike primary MCAS, it is not caused by a cloned cell. Unlike secondary MCAS, a doctor or healthcare practitioner cannot identify an underlying cause for the MCAS.

Symptoms of MCAS

Due to the release of mediators within the body, MCAS presents a wide range of symptoms in multiple body systems. The symptoms may range from digestive discomfort to mental issues, chronic pain, etc…

Symptoms include–

Symptoms

Range

Dermatological

Flushing

Hives

Bruising

Itchiness

Burning sensation

Dermatographism

Change in complexion (reddish or pale)

Cardiovascular

Lightheadedness

Dizziness

Chest pain

Syncope

Arrhythmia

Tachycardia

Presyncope

Gastrointestinal

Diarrhea

Constipation

Cramping

Intestinal discomfort

Nausea

Vomiting

Acidity

Difficulty in swallowing

Tight throat

Neuropsychiatric

Brain fog

Headache

Mild cognitive problems

Fatigue

Sleep disturbances

Lack of concentration

Respiratory

Congestion

Coughing

Wheezing

Systemic

Anaphylaxis

In severe cases, the symptoms of MCAS may also include–

  • a rapid drop in blood pressure
  • lightheadedness
  • weak pulse
  • trouble breathing or quick and shallow breathing
  • confusion
  • loss of consciousness

Ayurvedic treatment for MCAS

In Ayurveda, MCAS is understood through the lens of imbalances in tridoshas and can be managed by restoring balance.

Ayurvedic Understanding of MCAS

1. Dosha Imbalance: MCAS symptoms can be correlated with disturbances in all three doshas:

    • Vata: Symptoms such as anxiety, nervousness, and irregular heartbeats.
    • Pitta: Symptoms such as inflammation, heat intolerance, and skin rashes.
    • Kapha: Symptoms such as mucus production, congestion, and swelling.

2. Ama (Toxins): Accumulation of toxins in the body can trigger and exacerbate mast cell activation.

3. Agni (Digestive Fire): Weak or imbalanced digestive fire can lead to improper digestion and toxin accumulation.

Ayurvedic Treatment for MCAS

1. Deepan and Pachana: Strengthening digestion and metabolism to reduce ama.

  • Herbs: Ginger, black pepper, and pippali.
  • Formulations: Trikatu churna, which contains these three herbs.

2. Detoxification (Shodhana):

  • Virechana (Purgation Therapy): To eliminate Pitta-related toxins.
  • Basti (Medicated Enema): To balance Vata and remove deep-seated toxins.

3. Rasayana (rejuvenation therapy): To strengthen the immune system and improve overall health.

  • Herbs: Ashwagandha, Amalaki, and Guduchi.
  • Formulations: Chyawanprash.

4. Herbal Remedies:

  • Turmeric (Curcumin): Anti-inflammatory and mast cell stabilizer.
  • Guduchi (Tinospora cordifolia): Immunomodulatory and anti-allergic properties.
  • Neem (Azadirachta indica): Detoxifying and anti-inflammatory.

5. Diet and lifestyle modifications:

  • Diet: Avoid processed foods, allergens, and foods that aggravate doshas. Include fresh, seasonal, and easily digestible foods.
  • Lifestyle: Stress management through yoga, pranayama (breathing exercises), and meditation. Regular sleep patterns and avoiding exposure to environmental toxins.

6. Nasya (Nasal Administration of Medicated Oils): To balance Vata and clear toxins from the head and neck region.

7. External Therapies:

  • Abhyanga (Oil Massage): Using calming oils like sesame or coconut oil to pacify Vata and Pitta.
  • Shirodhara: Continuous pouring of medicated oil on the forehead to calm the nervous system.

8. Pranayama and Meditation: Practices to reduce stress and balance Vata dosha, which can help in reducing the symptoms of MCAS.

Wrapping up

Mast Cell Activation Syndrome (MCAS) is a complex condition characterized by inappropriate and excessive release of chemical mediators from mast cells, leading to a wide range of symptoms that can affect multiple systems in the body. From an Ayurvedic perspective, MCAS can be understood through the lens of dosha imbalances, accumulation of toxins (Ama), and weak digestive fire (Agni). Ayurvedic treatment for MCAS focuses on a holistic approach to restore dosha balance, strengthen digestion, and eliminate toxins. Key treatments include Deepan and Pachana (digestive strengthening), detoxification therapies like Virechana (purgation) and Basti (medicated enema), and Rasayana (rejuvenation) therapies to enhance overall health and immunity. Consulting with a qualified Ayurvedic practitioner is essential to creating a personalized treatment plan based on an individual’s unique constitution (Prakriti) and specific imbalances (Vikriti). They can provide guidance on the appropriate use of herbs, treatments, and lifestyle modifications to effectively manage MCAS.