Rithucharya or Rithu Charya (seasonal routines) are activities specified for different seasons of the year. Ritu means season and in India there are five main seasons.
Vasantha (Spring)
Sisira (winter/cold)
Grishma (summer, warm, sunny)
Sarath (autumn)
Varsha (rainy season or periodic monsoons)
Rithucharya and dinacharya are closely related. Dinacharya or daily routines are modified according to the season. There can be more activities during spring season than at hot summer months.
Rithucharya and Dinacharya are designed in Ayurveda to keep the three doshas or Tridoshas in balance and thereby to preserve the balance and health of mind, body and soul.
Sunday, November 30, 2008
Tuesday, November 18, 2008
Worry in Mouth Ulcers
There are many forms of mouth ulcers. Most of them are not very serious and are NOT a cancer. The two most common are the ones you have mentioned: cold sore or herpes simplex ulcers and aphtous ulcers.
Cold sores are ulcers caused by a virus called herpes simplex. They often appear on lips or the face and sometimes may affect the eye. They are very painful and the pain is burning in nature. The virus attacks the roots of the nerves and once in your body will always be there.
It does not mean, however, that you will always be sick. The ulcer, which starts as a painful blister, will eventually heal and may not return for months, even years. It often gets reactivated when our self-defense or immune system is down and weakened like during an illness or during stressful situations.
Some treat herpes ulcers with antiviral medications, but honestly, their help is minimal. Topical antiviral creams are even less effective.
One has to be careful when having an active ulcer because the ulcers can spread from person to person by touching and kissing. When a painful ulcer is present near the eye, it is very important to see an eye doctor immediately because the herpetic ulcers can scar the eye when healing.
The exact cause of many aphthous ulcers is unknown. Factors that provoke them include citrus (orange juice, lemons, acidic items, etc.), stress, fatigue, illness, injury from accidental biting, hormonal changes, menstruation, sudden weight loss, food allergies, the foaming agent in toothpaste (sodium lauryl sulfate or SLS), and deficiencies in vitamin B12, iron, and folic acid.
Some drugs, such as nicorandil, also have been linked to mouth ulcers.
In some cases they are thought to be caused by an overreaction by the body's own immune system.
Trauma to the mouth is the most common trigger of aphthous ulcers. Physical trauma, such as that caused by toothbrush abrasions, laceration with sharp or abrasive foods (toast) or objects, accidental biting (particularly common with sharp canine teeth), or dental braces can cause mouth ulcers by breaking the mucous membrane.
Other factors, such as chemical irritants or thermal injury, may also lead to the development of ulcers. The large majority of toothpastes sold in the U.S. contain SLS, which is known to cause aphthous ulcers in certain individuals. Using toothpaste without SLS will reduce the frequency of aphthous ulcers in persons who experience aphthous ulcers caused by SLS. A possible cause of aphthous ulcers in a susceptible population is gluten intolerance (Celiac disease), whereby consumption of wheat, rye, barley and sometimes oats, results in chronic mouth ulcers.
One study concluded that one-third of its test group found relief from canker sores after eliminating gluten from the diet. This means observing a strict diet, eliminating breads, pastas, cakes, pies, scones, biscuits, beers and so on from the diet and substituting gluten-free varieties where available. The opportunity to go into such a drastic measure is to be balanced with its potential benefits.
Although the exact cause is not known, aphthous ulcers are thought to form when the body becomes aware of and attacks molecules which it does not recognize. The presence of the unrecognized molecules starts a reaction by the T-cells, which trigger a reaction that causes the damage of a mouth ulcer. People who get these ulcers have lower numbers of regulatory T-cells.
Playing wind musical instruments such as the clarinet may also aggravate the ulcers. Repeat episodes of aphthous ulcers can be indicative of the low levels of immunoglobulin in the mucous membrane of the mouth. Immunoglobulins are proteins which play a very important role in our defense system. Certain types of chemotherapy cause mouth ulcers as a side effect. Mouth ulcers may also be symptoms or complications of several diseases. The list is long and includes, but is not limited to Behçet's disease, bullous pemphigoid, celiac disease (gluten sensitivity), Crohn's disease, gingivostomatitis, leukoplakia, oral lichen planus, lupus erythematosus, neutropenia (low white cell count), oral thrush (fungal infection) and ulcerative colitis. The treatment depends on the believed cause. Since it is impossible to clearly identify if your problem may be due to any of these diseases seeing a skin doctor is the next step for you. Your doctor was right. Most of the patients experiencing mouth ulcers will benefit from symptomatic treatment like local anesthetics.
Honey is believed to be a very helpful remedy according to the ancient Indian science of Ayurveda. I hope that you find the an effective relief soon.
Cold sores are ulcers caused by a virus called herpes simplex. They often appear on lips or the face and sometimes may affect the eye. They are very painful and the pain is burning in nature. The virus attacks the roots of the nerves and once in your body will always be there.
It does not mean, however, that you will always be sick. The ulcer, which starts as a painful blister, will eventually heal and may not return for months, even years. It often gets reactivated when our self-defense or immune system is down and weakened like during an illness or during stressful situations.
Some treat herpes ulcers with antiviral medications, but honestly, their help is minimal. Topical antiviral creams are even less effective.
One has to be careful when having an active ulcer because the ulcers can spread from person to person by touching and kissing. When a painful ulcer is present near the eye, it is very important to see an eye doctor immediately because the herpetic ulcers can scar the eye when healing.
The exact cause of many aphthous ulcers is unknown. Factors that provoke them include citrus (orange juice, lemons, acidic items, etc.), stress, fatigue, illness, injury from accidental biting, hormonal changes, menstruation, sudden weight loss, food allergies, the foaming agent in toothpaste (sodium lauryl sulfate or SLS), and deficiencies in vitamin B12, iron, and folic acid.
Some drugs, such as nicorandil, also have been linked to mouth ulcers.
In some cases they are thought to be caused by an overreaction by the body's own immune system.
Trauma to the mouth is the most common trigger of aphthous ulcers. Physical trauma, such as that caused by toothbrush abrasions, laceration with sharp or abrasive foods (toast) or objects, accidental biting (particularly common with sharp canine teeth), or dental braces can cause mouth ulcers by breaking the mucous membrane.
Other factors, such as chemical irritants or thermal injury, may also lead to the development of ulcers. The large majority of toothpastes sold in the U.S. contain SLS, which is known to cause aphthous ulcers in certain individuals. Using toothpaste without SLS will reduce the frequency of aphthous ulcers in persons who experience aphthous ulcers caused by SLS. A possible cause of aphthous ulcers in a susceptible population is gluten intolerance (Celiac disease), whereby consumption of wheat, rye, barley and sometimes oats, results in chronic mouth ulcers.
One study concluded that one-third of its test group found relief from canker sores after eliminating gluten from the diet. This means observing a strict diet, eliminating breads, pastas, cakes, pies, scones, biscuits, beers and so on from the diet and substituting gluten-free varieties where available. The opportunity to go into such a drastic measure is to be balanced with its potential benefits.
Although the exact cause is not known, aphthous ulcers are thought to form when the body becomes aware of and attacks molecules which it does not recognize. The presence of the unrecognized molecules starts a reaction by the T-cells, which trigger a reaction that causes the damage of a mouth ulcer. People who get these ulcers have lower numbers of regulatory T-cells.
Playing wind musical instruments such as the clarinet may also aggravate the ulcers. Repeat episodes of aphthous ulcers can be indicative of the low levels of immunoglobulin in the mucous membrane of the mouth. Immunoglobulins are proteins which play a very important role in our defense system. Certain types of chemotherapy cause mouth ulcers as a side effect. Mouth ulcers may also be symptoms or complications of several diseases. The list is long and includes, but is not limited to Behçet's disease, bullous pemphigoid, celiac disease (gluten sensitivity), Crohn's disease, gingivostomatitis, leukoplakia, oral lichen planus, lupus erythematosus, neutropenia (low white cell count), oral thrush (fungal infection) and ulcerative colitis. The treatment depends on the believed cause. Since it is impossible to clearly identify if your problem may be due to any of these diseases seeing a skin doctor is the next step for you. Your doctor was right. Most of the patients experiencing mouth ulcers will benefit from symptomatic treatment like local anesthetics.
Honey is believed to be a very helpful remedy according to the ancient Indian science of Ayurveda. I hope that you find the an effective relief soon.
Sunday, November 16, 2008
FOOD : What to Eat?
What to Eat? How to Eat?
Ayurveda explains the role of food in maintenance of vigorous health. There is
an interesting and important episode described in the text of Ayurvedic
Medicine. While discussing with Rishi Punarvasu - the author of “Charak
Samhita”, some Vaidyas (ancient Ayurvedic doctors) raised the query “Ko ruka?”
(Meaning: who does not fall ill?). Somebody said - one who eats Chyavanprash (a
paste created from healthy ingredients) every morning, other said “Who takes
lavan bhaskar and triphala regularly?” while others opine eating chandravati
every day as the source of health. Finally the fundamental principle of natural
maintenance of good health was expressed by Vagbhatt as - Hitbhuka, Mitbhuka,
Ritbhuika.
Hitbhuk: which means eat that which is nourishing for your health and do not eat
merely for taste.
Mitbhuk: which means eat moderately (only that much which is essential for
sustenance of the vitality and stamina of the body).
Ritbhuk: means eat that which is earned and prepared by righteous means and also
what is suitable in a particular season.
Broadly speaking, the above principles are not new to us. We all have read or
heard about these in one form or the other. But how many people (including
ourselves) really pay attention to these? In view of the life-style adopted by
most of us today and considering the growing pollution in the gross and the
subtle environment, we ought to be more careful about healthy food.
So first let’s understand categories of food.
1. Suka Grain (Cereals): Wheat, rice, barley, maize, millet, corn, etc. are
principle ingredients of Indian cooking. The cereals are natural sources of
nourishment for human body. Carbohydrates are their major constituents. They
also contain about 6% to 12% proteins. The presence of minerals and vitamins is,
however, nominal in the cereals; only vitamin B is found in greater quantity in
their outer sheath. The shelf life of these cereals ranges between one to two
years after harvesting. Sprouted cereals have more nutrition value and are
richer in proteins and vitamins.
2. Sami Grains (Pulses and Legumes): This category of grains consists of grams
and pulses, which are rich in proteins. Gram, green gram, kidney-bean seeds, red
and yellow gram and lentil, black-gram, soybean seeds, dry-peas, etc. fall in
this category. These are main source of proteins for vegetarians. The protein
contents and mode of metabolism of these are healthier and more compatible with
the metabolic functioning of the human body as compared to those in the
non-vegetarian foods (meat, chicken, eggs etc.) Use of fresh sprouts of whole
pulses and legumes in balanced quantities in breakfast and main meals is an
excellent means of maintaining natural health.
3. Kandamula (Tubers and Roots): Potato, sweet tuber (sweet potato), carrot,
beetroot, turnip, radish, etc. are members of this class of naturally healthy
foods. They are rich in carbohydrates and are important sources of balanced
calories in our bodies and activation of metabolism. These, if eaten in
appropriate quantities, are good means of strength and energy in the body
system. These could even be used as substitutes for varieties of cereal dishes.
The rishimunis (Sages) of the ancient times used to take only Kandamula as their
main food. The term ‘phatahara’ for the food prescribed during fasts refers to
these only.
4. Phal (Fruits): As we all know, vitamins, minerals, natural glucose and
carbohydrates are present in substantial proportions in fresh fruits. Amalki,
apple, bilva (wood-apple), banana, black-plum (rose-apple), dates, figs, grapes,
guava, mango, orange, pomegranate, papaya, sweet-lime, etc. are easily available
fruits in almost all parts of India. According to Ayurveda, these fruits also
have medicinal properties. Fruits like apricot, cherry, pineapple, strawberry,
etc. could also be used when available. Ayurveda emphasizes that fruits should
be eaten in their specific season, and should be naturally ripe. Overripe or
rotten fruits are harmful. Raw fruits would be difficult to digest and will not
have the desired natural qualities. Care should be taken to avoid eating fruits
preserved in cold storage and those ripened through the use of chemicals like
carbide. These have severe negative effects; frequent use of such unnaturally
ripened fruits might cause dreaded diseases like cancer.
5. Sakas (Vegetables): Fresh vegetables are important ingredients of a healthy
food. They provide us with essential vitamins, minerals, and compounds. Use of
different types of green beans, bitter gourd, brinjal (eggplant), cabbage,
cauliflower, cucumber, green-gourd, okra (bhindi), tomato, etc. is very good for
health. Different types of vegetables supplement each other in fulfilling the
body’s requirement of vitamins, minerals etc. Likewise the use of fruits,
specific vegetables should also be consumed only in the specific season of their
natural growth. Use of vegetables of one season in another season is prohibited
in Ayurveda.
6. Harit (Greens Leafy Vegetables): Coriander-leaf, fenugreek-leafs, green peas,
mint-leafs, radish-leaf, spinach, etc. should be part of a healthy diet. Iron,
calcium and other mineral and vitamin C and E etc. present in these green leafy
vegetables or salads, are essential for our body’s proper nourishment.
7. Suska Phal Va Tilahan (Dry Fruits and Oil Seeds): Almond, cashew nut,
chestnut, coconut, groundnut, peanut, pistachio, etc. are very rich in proteins.
The oils inside these provide natural lubricants and facts necessary for the
body’s mechanical and other functions. The edible, oily-seeds of sesame, mustard
etc. also serve this purpose.
8. Iksu (Glucose rich substances): Molasses, sugarcane, sugar treacle, and other
glucose rich substances fall in this category. These are often used to sweeten
the drinks and eatables. These contain hundred percent carbohydrates, which are
the major source of producing energy in the body.
9. Ambu (Watery or juicy substances): This category includes all edible
substances that are rich in water-content. Fruits like watermelon, which contain
about 90% water, are prominent in this category. Major part of our body-system
is filled with water. We should fulfill the consistent requirement of its supply
by drinking substantial amount of water. Fresh lemon squash, etc. and juice of
watery fruits, if taken in balanced quantities, also supply us with other
nourishing substances along with water.
10. Goras (Milk products): Milk, curd, buttermilk, cheese, etc. fall in this
group. Pure milk (esp. that of cow) and buttermilk are described as ‘divine’
food or best source of nourishment for sadhakas. Many people observe kalpa
(long-term fasting) only with the intake of milk or buttermilk. Milk
(especially, cow-milk) is said to be a whole food in itself. Curd is also
nourishing food with several medicinal qualities, if taken fresh and in
appropriate quantities in different seasons as per one’s prakrati (level of
tridosa). Fresh cheese and its products (if not fried) are wholesome sources of
calories. Buttermilk (takra) is referred in Ayurveda as an important medicinal
food. Condensed milk and milk powder might be easy to preserve and use, and may
help in making delicious dishes, but these are harmful to health, particularly
in the cozy life-style we have adopted and because of the chemical synthesis
processes used in their preparation. Use of condensed milk and milk powder or
dairy whiteners should therefore be avoided as far as possible. In view of the
reports of adulteration of milk by mixing urea and other chemicals, contaminated
water, etc., these days, we should be careful in verifying and ascertaining that
milk and its products are free from toxins.
11. Sneha (Oils and Fats): Butter, ghee (butter clarified by boiling and
straining), edible oils and fatty substances, if taken in balanced amounts, are
also part of a healthy diet. These are highly rich in calories. (On an average,
about nine calories are gained from 1gm of any of these substances). These help
in fulfilling the requirements of lubrication of body parts (especially, joints)
and energy production in the body-system. They also generally contain vitamins
A, D, E and K. However, excess use of these substances is harmful to both
physical and mental health. Extra care should therefore be taken to keep the
level of proportion of this category to the essential minimum in our daily
meals.
12. Krattana Va Yaugika (Cooked Food and Edible Compounds): Ayurveda considers
‘cooked food’ as a separate class of food. All the categories described above
are independent of each other and, as we know, most of the constituents of these
could be consumed raw or sprouted. Cooking changes the natural properties of
food ingredients. However, eating this class of food is important because proper
cooking (esp. of cereals and pulses) makes the food easily digestible and many
of the new edible compounds produced under this process would also be of vital
use in the metabolic system and other body-functions. Cooked food could consist
of members of more than one of the above classes and help giving new combined
positive effects. The concept of cooking as referred in Ayurveda is quite
different from what it is for most of us today.
Cooking today is mostly aimed to make the food more delicious; different
experiments are tried out by the catering experts in this regard and new
‘dishes’ and new recipes are derived. Deep fried food, varieties of spices and
arbitrary combination of foods of non-compatible natural qualities are harmful
to our health according to Ayurveda. But we don’t think of it as long as the
food is palatable. The use of pre-cooked food-ingredients and the so-called
“fast foods” should be avoided, as it has very adverse effects on our
body-system. Apart from lacking in nourishing value this type of ‘modern’ food
is very likely to impair the normal functioning of our digestive system and
cause harmful mutations due to the chemicals in the preservatives, the
artificial flavors and the chemically processed cooking involved in its
preparation.
Having looked at the different categories of edible foods described in Ayurveda,
let us now see what the Ayurvedic Principles tell us about - what, how much and
when to eat? Why to eat and how to eat?
What to eat?
The principle of “Hitbhuk and Ritbhuk” conveys us that we should always eat
properly earned, pure, seasonal and nourishing food. A balanced combination
(depending upon the physical and mental labor required in one’s daily routine)
from the above-described categories of healthy foods would be best suited. For
example, you may use wheat, barley, maize, and some pulses, curd, butter,
groundnuts, oilseeds, etc. in appropriate quantities with larger amounts of
green, leafy and other vegetables; some sprouts should always be part of your
food. Don’t over-cook or deeply fry; use of spices, salts, sugars and oily
substances should be restricted to the essential minimum. One should always eat
fresh food; resist consuming toxic substances, stimulating and alcoholic drinks,
and non-vegetarian foods. If you want to enjoy vigorous mental and physical
health as per the guidelines of Ayurveda abstain from tobacco, betel-nuts,
betel-leaves, etc.; stop taking wine, liquor and other alcoholic drinks; resist
from drinking tea or coffee as well; never eat eggs, fish, chickens, any kind of
animal-flesh etc.
How much to eat?
The answer lies in the principle of “Mitasi Syat”. Meaning, eat moderately.
Howsoever nourishing or healthy the food may be; it would cause harm if eaten in
excess. So, be cautious about the quantity of your diet. Don’t fill your tummy
more than half its space, leave one-fourth for water and the remaining
one-fourth for air. Those doing physical labor need more of proteins,
carbohydrates and fats. But those engaged in sedentry and mental work or
meditation-devotion etc. should take lighter foods such as boiled vegetables,
thin chapatis, daliya (boiled crushed wheat), milk, sweet fruits, etc.
When to eat?
As per the vedic routine, one should eat only twice a day after performing
agnihotra (homam) in the morning and in the evening (before sunset). In today’s
circumstances, the best timings for the morning meal are any time between 8 a.m.
to 12 noon and those for the dinner sometime before 7 p.m. This way the food is
easily digested and keeps the body strong and energetic. In any case, be regular
in the timings of taking your meals; avoid eating late in the night. One of the
major causes of metabolic disorders and varieties of diseases caused thereby is
that people keep watching TV and eat very late in the night. Remember that it
takes about 8 to 11 hours for proper natural digestion of food. Eat only when
you feel hungry. (Suppose you are not hungry at the regular timings, don’t eat;
you may take only something light, say milk with water as a substitute). Eating
is a kind of agnihotra. The ahutis (offerings) are made in agnihotra only when
its fire is lit well; putting the ahutis in half-burnt or smoldering wood would
only produce smoke instead of healthy effects of agnihotra.
Why to eat?
Eat to maintain and strengthen the health and vigor of your body.
Healthy mind resides in a healthy body. And therefore Vedas say that “We shall
regard our body as the temple of our soul and maintain its sanctity and health
by observing self-restraint and punctuality in our routine”. The purpose of food
is to sustain healthy and harmonious functioning of the body system, the
physical medium of our life, to enable us to perform our duties towards God and
His creation. Food is not meant to satiate the greed of our tongue or stomach.
How to eat?
Take your food gracefully in a calm state of mind, paying full attention to
eating; every morsel should be chewed properly. Food should be revered like the
prasada (offerings made to the Deity). Enough water should be taken before and
after the meals. Water is like nectar for our vital functions. Drink at least a
glass full of water before taking food. Don’t drink more than half a bowl of
water while eating. Drink sufficient water after about an hour of taking the
meals. This helps in proper digestion.
The type of food and mode of eating should also take into account the seasonal
effects. The rainy season is very critical with respect to healthcare through
controlled food. In this period (known as visarga kala in Ayurveda) the sun
begins to move towards the winter solstice (daksinayana). The vata accumulated
in the body due to the heat of summer begins to show its ill effects, it
diminishes the appetite and causes gastric troubles, etc. Normal digestion also
takes longer time in this season because of this vata, which, if one does not
take proper care in the selection of food and eating habits, catalyzes the dosha
of pitta as well. The rise in humidity makes this season risky towards the rise
of kapha dosa. People prone to cold and cough should therefore be extra careful
about their food during the monsoons.
In view of these Ayurvedic observations, one should eat light and easily
digestible meals and firmly resist from lavish, heavy stuff. Else the vicious
effects of undigested food and associated accumulation and rise of doshas will
invite one disease after the other, some of which might manifest gradually in
the successive seasons. As a preventive measure, drinking water should be boiled
in this season and vegetables and salads, etc. should also be washed in clean,
boiled water. A combination of sweet-sour-salty juicy substance should be used
in food to reduce the vata effect. Ginger should be used in food preparation to
make it easily digestible. Vegetables like green gourd, bhindi (okra) paraval
(snake-gourd), are suitable, as these do not increase gastric problems; use of
sprouts or pulses of green-gram and roasted or cooked maize is also beneficial.
Ayurvedic scriptures advise against the use of milk in the month of shravan (the
second month of rainy season in India) and buttermilk in bhadon (the third month
of rainy season in India); curd should be generally avoided during the entire
season of monsoon. Viral fever, malaria, typhoid, jaundice, conjunctivitis,
gastroenteritis and skin infections are quite common diseases (in India) during
this season.
Necessary precautions should be taken in this regard. Preventive herbal
medicines may also be used as a support in high-risk areas.
If preventive care is taken as regards taking healthy foods in the rainy season,
the winter would prove to be beneficial towards enhancing the vigor and health
of the body.
Ayurveda also lays stress on spiritual effects of food.
Ayurveda explains the role of food in maintenance of vigorous health. There is
an interesting and important episode described in the text of Ayurvedic
Medicine. While discussing with Rishi Punarvasu - the author of “Charak
Samhita”, some Vaidyas (ancient Ayurvedic doctors) raised the query “Ko ruka?”
(Meaning: who does not fall ill?). Somebody said - one who eats Chyavanprash (a
paste created from healthy ingredients) every morning, other said “Who takes
lavan bhaskar and triphala regularly?” while others opine eating chandravati
every day as the source of health. Finally the fundamental principle of natural
maintenance of good health was expressed by Vagbhatt as - Hitbhuka, Mitbhuka,
Ritbhuika.
Hitbhuk: which means eat that which is nourishing for your health and do not eat
merely for taste.
Mitbhuk: which means eat moderately (only that much which is essential for
sustenance of the vitality and stamina of the body).
Ritbhuk: means eat that which is earned and prepared by righteous means and also
what is suitable in a particular season.
Broadly speaking, the above principles are not new to us. We all have read or
heard about these in one form or the other. But how many people (including
ourselves) really pay attention to these? In view of the life-style adopted by
most of us today and considering the growing pollution in the gross and the
subtle environment, we ought to be more careful about healthy food.
So first let’s understand categories of food.
1. Suka Grain (Cereals): Wheat, rice, barley, maize, millet, corn, etc. are
principle ingredients of Indian cooking. The cereals are natural sources of
nourishment for human body. Carbohydrates are their major constituents. They
also contain about 6% to 12% proteins. The presence of minerals and vitamins is,
however, nominal in the cereals; only vitamin B is found in greater quantity in
their outer sheath. The shelf life of these cereals ranges between one to two
years after harvesting. Sprouted cereals have more nutrition value and are
richer in proteins and vitamins.
2. Sami Grains (Pulses and Legumes): This category of grains consists of grams
and pulses, which are rich in proteins. Gram, green gram, kidney-bean seeds, red
and yellow gram and lentil, black-gram, soybean seeds, dry-peas, etc. fall in
this category. These are main source of proteins for vegetarians. The protein
contents and mode of metabolism of these are healthier and more compatible with
the metabolic functioning of the human body as compared to those in the
non-vegetarian foods (meat, chicken, eggs etc.) Use of fresh sprouts of whole
pulses and legumes in balanced quantities in breakfast and main meals is an
excellent means of maintaining natural health.
3. Kandamula (Tubers and Roots): Potato, sweet tuber (sweet potato), carrot,
beetroot, turnip, radish, etc. are members of this class of naturally healthy
foods. They are rich in carbohydrates and are important sources of balanced
calories in our bodies and activation of metabolism. These, if eaten in
appropriate quantities, are good means of strength and energy in the body
system. These could even be used as substitutes for varieties of cereal dishes.
The rishimunis (Sages) of the ancient times used to take only Kandamula as their
main food. The term ‘phatahara’ for the food prescribed during fasts refers to
these only.
4. Phal (Fruits): As we all know, vitamins, minerals, natural glucose and
carbohydrates are present in substantial proportions in fresh fruits. Amalki,
apple, bilva (wood-apple), banana, black-plum (rose-apple), dates, figs, grapes,
guava, mango, orange, pomegranate, papaya, sweet-lime, etc. are easily available
fruits in almost all parts of India. According to Ayurveda, these fruits also
have medicinal properties. Fruits like apricot, cherry, pineapple, strawberry,
etc. could also be used when available. Ayurveda emphasizes that fruits should
be eaten in their specific season, and should be naturally ripe. Overripe or
rotten fruits are harmful. Raw fruits would be difficult to digest and will not
have the desired natural qualities. Care should be taken to avoid eating fruits
preserved in cold storage and those ripened through the use of chemicals like
carbide. These have severe negative effects; frequent use of such unnaturally
ripened fruits might cause dreaded diseases like cancer.
5. Sakas (Vegetables): Fresh vegetables are important ingredients of a healthy
food. They provide us with essential vitamins, minerals, and compounds. Use of
different types of green beans, bitter gourd, brinjal (eggplant), cabbage,
cauliflower, cucumber, green-gourd, okra (bhindi), tomato, etc. is very good for
health. Different types of vegetables supplement each other in fulfilling the
body’s requirement of vitamins, minerals etc. Likewise the use of fruits,
specific vegetables should also be consumed only in the specific season of their
natural growth. Use of vegetables of one season in another season is prohibited
in Ayurveda.
6. Harit (Greens Leafy Vegetables): Coriander-leaf, fenugreek-leafs, green peas,
mint-leafs, radish-leaf, spinach, etc. should be part of a healthy diet. Iron,
calcium and other mineral and vitamin C and E etc. present in these green leafy
vegetables or salads, are essential for our body’s proper nourishment.
7. Suska Phal Va Tilahan (Dry Fruits and Oil Seeds): Almond, cashew nut,
chestnut, coconut, groundnut, peanut, pistachio, etc. are very rich in proteins.
The oils inside these provide natural lubricants and facts necessary for the
body’s mechanical and other functions. The edible, oily-seeds of sesame, mustard
etc. also serve this purpose.
8. Iksu (Glucose rich substances): Molasses, sugarcane, sugar treacle, and other
glucose rich substances fall in this category. These are often used to sweeten
the drinks and eatables. These contain hundred percent carbohydrates, which are
the major source of producing energy in the body.
9. Ambu (Watery or juicy substances): This category includes all edible
substances that are rich in water-content. Fruits like watermelon, which contain
about 90% water, are prominent in this category. Major part of our body-system
is filled with water. We should fulfill the consistent requirement of its supply
by drinking substantial amount of water. Fresh lemon squash, etc. and juice of
watery fruits, if taken in balanced quantities, also supply us with other
nourishing substances along with water.
10. Goras (Milk products): Milk, curd, buttermilk, cheese, etc. fall in this
group. Pure milk (esp. that of cow) and buttermilk are described as ‘divine’
food or best source of nourishment for sadhakas. Many people observe kalpa
(long-term fasting) only with the intake of milk or buttermilk. Milk
(especially, cow-milk) is said to be a whole food in itself. Curd is also
nourishing food with several medicinal qualities, if taken fresh and in
appropriate quantities in different seasons as per one’s prakrati (level of
tridosa). Fresh cheese and its products (if not fried) are wholesome sources of
calories. Buttermilk (takra) is referred in Ayurveda as an important medicinal
food. Condensed milk and milk powder might be easy to preserve and use, and may
help in making delicious dishes, but these are harmful to health, particularly
in the cozy life-style we have adopted and because of the chemical synthesis
processes used in their preparation. Use of condensed milk and milk powder or
dairy whiteners should therefore be avoided as far as possible. In view of the
reports of adulteration of milk by mixing urea and other chemicals, contaminated
water, etc., these days, we should be careful in verifying and ascertaining that
milk and its products are free from toxins.
11. Sneha (Oils and Fats): Butter, ghee (butter clarified by boiling and
straining), edible oils and fatty substances, if taken in balanced amounts, are
also part of a healthy diet. These are highly rich in calories. (On an average,
about nine calories are gained from 1gm of any of these substances). These help
in fulfilling the requirements of lubrication of body parts (especially, joints)
and energy production in the body-system. They also generally contain vitamins
A, D, E and K. However, excess use of these substances is harmful to both
physical and mental health. Extra care should therefore be taken to keep the
level of proportion of this category to the essential minimum in our daily
meals.
12. Krattana Va Yaugika (Cooked Food and Edible Compounds): Ayurveda considers
‘cooked food’ as a separate class of food. All the categories described above
are independent of each other and, as we know, most of the constituents of these
could be consumed raw or sprouted. Cooking changes the natural properties of
food ingredients. However, eating this class of food is important because proper
cooking (esp. of cereals and pulses) makes the food easily digestible and many
of the new edible compounds produced under this process would also be of vital
use in the metabolic system and other body-functions. Cooked food could consist
of members of more than one of the above classes and help giving new combined
positive effects. The concept of cooking as referred in Ayurveda is quite
different from what it is for most of us today.
Cooking today is mostly aimed to make the food more delicious; different
experiments are tried out by the catering experts in this regard and new
‘dishes’ and new recipes are derived. Deep fried food, varieties of spices and
arbitrary combination of foods of non-compatible natural qualities are harmful
to our health according to Ayurveda. But we don’t think of it as long as the
food is palatable. The use of pre-cooked food-ingredients and the so-called
“fast foods” should be avoided, as it has very adverse effects on our
body-system. Apart from lacking in nourishing value this type of ‘modern’ food
is very likely to impair the normal functioning of our digestive system and
cause harmful mutations due to the chemicals in the preservatives, the
artificial flavors and the chemically processed cooking involved in its
preparation.
Having looked at the different categories of edible foods described in Ayurveda,
let us now see what the Ayurvedic Principles tell us about - what, how much and
when to eat? Why to eat and how to eat?
What to eat?
The principle of “Hitbhuk and Ritbhuk” conveys us that we should always eat
properly earned, pure, seasonal and nourishing food. A balanced combination
(depending upon the physical and mental labor required in one’s daily routine)
from the above-described categories of healthy foods would be best suited. For
example, you may use wheat, barley, maize, and some pulses, curd, butter,
groundnuts, oilseeds, etc. in appropriate quantities with larger amounts of
green, leafy and other vegetables; some sprouts should always be part of your
food. Don’t over-cook or deeply fry; use of spices, salts, sugars and oily
substances should be restricted to the essential minimum. One should always eat
fresh food; resist consuming toxic substances, stimulating and alcoholic drinks,
and non-vegetarian foods. If you want to enjoy vigorous mental and physical
health as per the guidelines of Ayurveda abstain from tobacco, betel-nuts,
betel-leaves, etc.; stop taking wine, liquor and other alcoholic drinks; resist
from drinking tea or coffee as well; never eat eggs, fish, chickens, any kind of
animal-flesh etc.
How much to eat?
The answer lies in the principle of “Mitasi Syat”. Meaning, eat moderately.
Howsoever nourishing or healthy the food may be; it would cause harm if eaten in
excess. So, be cautious about the quantity of your diet. Don’t fill your tummy
more than half its space, leave one-fourth for water and the remaining
one-fourth for air. Those doing physical labor need more of proteins,
carbohydrates and fats. But those engaged in sedentry and mental work or
meditation-devotion etc. should take lighter foods such as boiled vegetables,
thin chapatis, daliya (boiled crushed wheat), milk, sweet fruits, etc.
When to eat?
As per the vedic routine, one should eat only twice a day after performing
agnihotra (homam) in the morning and in the evening (before sunset). In today’s
circumstances, the best timings for the morning meal are any time between 8 a.m.
to 12 noon and those for the dinner sometime before 7 p.m. This way the food is
easily digested and keeps the body strong and energetic. In any case, be regular
in the timings of taking your meals; avoid eating late in the night. One of the
major causes of metabolic disorders and varieties of diseases caused thereby is
that people keep watching TV and eat very late in the night. Remember that it
takes about 8 to 11 hours for proper natural digestion of food. Eat only when
you feel hungry. (Suppose you are not hungry at the regular timings, don’t eat;
you may take only something light, say milk with water as a substitute). Eating
is a kind of agnihotra. The ahutis (offerings) are made in agnihotra only when
its fire is lit well; putting the ahutis in half-burnt or smoldering wood would
only produce smoke instead of healthy effects of agnihotra.
Why to eat?
Eat to maintain and strengthen the health and vigor of your body.
Healthy mind resides in a healthy body. And therefore Vedas say that “We shall
regard our body as the temple of our soul and maintain its sanctity and health
by observing self-restraint and punctuality in our routine”. The purpose of food
is to sustain healthy and harmonious functioning of the body system, the
physical medium of our life, to enable us to perform our duties towards God and
His creation. Food is not meant to satiate the greed of our tongue or stomach.
How to eat?
Take your food gracefully in a calm state of mind, paying full attention to
eating; every morsel should be chewed properly. Food should be revered like the
prasada (offerings made to the Deity). Enough water should be taken before and
after the meals. Water is like nectar for our vital functions. Drink at least a
glass full of water before taking food. Don’t drink more than half a bowl of
water while eating. Drink sufficient water after about an hour of taking the
meals. This helps in proper digestion.
The type of food and mode of eating should also take into account the seasonal
effects. The rainy season is very critical with respect to healthcare through
controlled food. In this period (known as visarga kala in Ayurveda) the sun
begins to move towards the winter solstice (daksinayana). The vata accumulated
in the body due to the heat of summer begins to show its ill effects, it
diminishes the appetite and causes gastric troubles, etc. Normal digestion also
takes longer time in this season because of this vata, which, if one does not
take proper care in the selection of food and eating habits, catalyzes the dosha
of pitta as well. The rise in humidity makes this season risky towards the rise
of kapha dosa. People prone to cold and cough should therefore be extra careful
about their food during the monsoons.
In view of these Ayurvedic observations, one should eat light and easily
digestible meals and firmly resist from lavish, heavy stuff. Else the vicious
effects of undigested food and associated accumulation and rise of doshas will
invite one disease after the other, some of which might manifest gradually in
the successive seasons. As a preventive measure, drinking water should be boiled
in this season and vegetables and salads, etc. should also be washed in clean,
boiled water. A combination of sweet-sour-salty juicy substance should be used
in food to reduce the vata effect. Ginger should be used in food preparation to
make it easily digestible. Vegetables like green gourd, bhindi (okra) paraval
(snake-gourd), are suitable, as these do not increase gastric problems; use of
sprouts or pulses of green-gram and roasted or cooked maize is also beneficial.
Ayurvedic scriptures advise against the use of milk in the month of shravan (the
second month of rainy season in India) and buttermilk in bhadon (the third month
of rainy season in India); curd should be generally avoided during the entire
season of monsoon. Viral fever, malaria, typhoid, jaundice, conjunctivitis,
gastroenteritis and skin infections are quite common diseases (in India) during
this season.
Necessary precautions should be taken in this regard. Preventive herbal
medicines may also be used as a support in high-risk areas.
If preventive care is taken as regards taking healthy foods in the rainy season,
the winter would prove to be beneficial towards enhancing the vigor and health
of the body.
Ayurveda also lays stress on spiritual effects of food.
Saturday, November 15, 2008
COUGH
What is Cough ?
Cough is also usually a Kapha (water) disorder. It is caused by accumulation of mucus, or by irritation to the mucus membranes of the respiratory tract.
The modern science do not regard cough as a disease but the rather consider it as only a symptom of an impending respiratory disease or disorder or a manifestation of some cardiopulmonary distress.
membranes of the respiratory tract.
The modern science do not regard cough as a disease but the rather consider it as only a symptom of an impending respiratory disease or disorder or a manifestation of some cardiopulmonary distress.
What are the symptoms ?
The common symptoms of colds and coughs are a running or blocked nose, sneezing repeatedly specially when exposed to cold air or when drinking ic cold drinks, a sore throat, cough, congestion, headache and sometimes a low fever with body pains. Anorexia, laziness and difficulty in sleeping are also seen when the symptoms become servere.
What are the causes ?
Colds and coughs are a very common problem and are caused by aggravation of Kapha Dosha. It may sometimes be caused by a weak digestion. When the food we eat is not fully digested it changes into mucus, which in Ayurvedic language is known as ama. This mucus or ama mixed with various circulation reaches the respiratory system and causes colds or coughs.
Other causes are exposure to cold or humid condition and cold air. Exposure to hot and cold condition alternatively within a short period and exposing the body to extreme temperature condition also aggravates the condition. The most common instance of this is drinking ice cold drinks when we are hot and perspiring. Eating hot and cold food at the same time e.g. ice cream with hot cofee is also not adviced.
It is also generally caused at the time of change of season. Eating foods that increase Kapha like milk products, foods heavily fried in oil or ghee (clarified butter) will accelerate the problem.
What is the treatment ?
Kapha cough involves expectorating thick or slimy mucus of clear or white color and an infrequent cough. A distaste for food, feeling of heaviness, and sweet taste in the mouth with excess saliva or feeling of nausea will be symptoms. The patient will complain of cold, and the lungs may be full of phlegm.
Treatment involves anti-Kapha diet, avoiding dairy and other mucus-forming foods. Ice, cold water and fruit juices should not be taken. Hot spicy herbs, particularly long pepper, dry ginger or chitrak as a milk decoction, are helpful as is Trikatu compound.
Pitta type cough involves expectorating yellow phlegm, sometimes streaked with blood. There will be a burning sensation in the throat and chest, along with fever, thirst and dryness of the mouth. The mouth will taste bitter or pungent.
Treatment is much like that for Pitta type colds. Ghee can be used to soothe the throat. Powdered lotus seed with honey is helpful. Licorice combination can be used.
Vata type cough is usually a dry cough with little expectoration. Cough will be frequent, painful and with a particular sound. Pain in the chest and heart, or a headache is typical. There will be dryness in the mouth, hoarseness and perhaps nervousness, anxiety or insomnia. .
Treatment involves anti-Vata diet. Anti-cough and demulcent herbs are prescribed, licorice, marshmallow, comfrey root, shatavari and ash-wagandha. Formulas include Cardamom combination and Draksha, plus formulas indicated under the common cold.
Diet and routine
Cold foods, cold drinks, ice cream, sweets, fried foods, milk products like cheese, creams, yoghurt etc. should not be taken.
Hot milk without fat can be taken if boiled with a pice of crushed ginger.
Half a teaspoon of turmeric powder mixed with the milk is effective.
Sweet fruit juice should also be avoided, Breads, meats, nuts and pastries are not advisable.
It is good to take a light warm diet like boiled or steamed vegetables; vegetable soups and fruits, which areok
not juicy, like papaya and apple.
Spiced teas, herbal teas and other hot drinks are beneficial.
Sleeping during the daytime should be avoided.
Taking cold showers, exposure to cold winds, fans, air conditioners etc. should be avoided
Cough is also usually a Kapha (water) disorder. It is caused by accumulation of mucus, or by irritation to the mucus membranes of the respiratory tract.
The modern science do not regard cough as a disease but the rather consider it as only a symptom of an impending respiratory disease or disorder or a manifestation of some cardiopulmonary distress.
membranes of the respiratory tract.
The modern science do not regard cough as a disease but the rather consider it as only a symptom of an impending respiratory disease or disorder or a manifestation of some cardiopulmonary distress.
What are the symptoms ?
The common symptoms of colds and coughs are a running or blocked nose, sneezing repeatedly specially when exposed to cold air or when drinking ic cold drinks, a sore throat, cough, congestion, headache and sometimes a low fever with body pains. Anorexia, laziness and difficulty in sleeping are also seen when the symptoms become servere.
What are the causes ?
Colds and coughs are a very common problem and are caused by aggravation of Kapha Dosha. It may sometimes be caused by a weak digestion. When the food we eat is not fully digested it changes into mucus, which in Ayurvedic language is known as ama. This mucus or ama mixed with various circulation reaches the respiratory system and causes colds or coughs.
Other causes are exposure to cold or humid condition and cold air. Exposure to hot and cold condition alternatively within a short period and exposing the body to extreme temperature condition also aggravates the condition. The most common instance of this is drinking ice cold drinks when we are hot and perspiring. Eating hot and cold food at the same time e.g. ice cream with hot cofee is also not adviced.
It is also generally caused at the time of change of season. Eating foods that increase Kapha like milk products, foods heavily fried in oil or ghee (clarified butter) will accelerate the problem.
What is the treatment ?
Kapha cough involves expectorating thick or slimy mucus of clear or white color and an infrequent cough. A distaste for food, feeling of heaviness, and sweet taste in the mouth with excess saliva or feeling of nausea will be symptoms. The patient will complain of cold, and the lungs may be full of phlegm.
Treatment involves anti-Kapha diet, avoiding dairy and other mucus-forming foods. Ice, cold water and fruit juices should not be taken. Hot spicy herbs, particularly long pepper, dry ginger or chitrak as a milk decoction, are helpful as is Trikatu compound.
Pitta type cough involves expectorating yellow phlegm, sometimes streaked with blood. There will be a burning sensation in the throat and chest, along with fever, thirst and dryness of the mouth. The mouth will taste bitter or pungent.
Treatment is much like that for Pitta type colds. Ghee can be used to soothe the throat. Powdered lotus seed with honey is helpful. Licorice combination can be used.
Vata type cough is usually a dry cough with little expectoration. Cough will be frequent, painful and with a particular sound. Pain in the chest and heart, or a headache is typical. There will be dryness in the mouth, hoarseness and perhaps nervousness, anxiety or insomnia. .
Treatment involves anti-Vata diet. Anti-cough and demulcent herbs are prescribed, licorice, marshmallow, comfrey root, shatavari and ash-wagandha. Formulas include Cardamom combination and Draksha, plus formulas indicated under the common cold.
Diet and routine
Cold foods, cold drinks, ice cream, sweets, fried foods, milk products like cheese, creams, yoghurt etc. should not be taken.
Hot milk without fat can be taken if boiled with a pice of crushed ginger.
Half a teaspoon of turmeric powder mixed with the milk is effective.
Sweet fruit juice should also be avoided, Breads, meats, nuts and pastries are not advisable.
It is good to take a light warm diet like boiled or steamed vegetables; vegetable soups and fruits, which areok
not juicy, like papaya and apple.
Spiced teas, herbal teas and other hot drinks are beneficial.
Sleeping during the daytime should be avoided.
Taking cold showers, exposure to cold winds, fans, air conditioners etc. should be avoided
Cervical Spondylosis
Cervical Spondylosis is a condition of degeneration of the inter-vertebral disks, which advances with advancing age and which, in course of time, also involves the adjacent vertebrae and the para-vertebral structures.The elasticity of the inter-vertebral disks is lost and it predisposes the disks to injury and tear. It also leads to inflammatory changes which in turn brings about calcification (deposition of calcium) leading to extra bone formations called osteophytes in the adjoining structures. Spondylosis is a specific form of arthritis, which attacks vertebrae and connecting bone, and ligament structures. The spines of majority of people above the age of 50 have certain degree of osteo arthritic changes. But they seldom cause acute symptoms. Certain precipitating factors like trauma, incorrect posture of the body, pressure while sleeping and excessive intake of sour food usually precipitate spondylitis attacks. In ayurveda this condition is known as Griva Sandhigata Vata.
What are the commonly encountered problems relating to the cervical spondylosis?
Pain in the back of neck, shoulder and arms,hands, back of the scalp, numbness in the hands,lack of sensation in certain areas of the hands, difficulty and restriction in the movement of the neck,Head ache localized at the back of the head & giddiness on jerky neck movements,stiffness of the neck and even paraplegia occur due to spondylitis condition. The movement of the spine generally aggravates the pain of the neck. It is often associated with loss of memory and sleeplessness.
What are these caused due to?
Pain in the neck region can be caused by a variety of reasons. Different centres in and around the cervical vertebrae are sensitive to pain and problems connected with any of these regions can cause pain. The Periosteum ( The outer layer of the cervical vertebrae ), The anterior and posterior ligaments ( the ligaments which run along the vertebrae and stabilize them ), The facet joints ( the joint formed between the sideward protrusions of the vertebrae ) The para-vertebral muscles are all pain sensitive and any lesions to the above structures are capable of producing pain.
Pain, numbness and lack of sensation in the other areas are produced by problems effecting the nerves that emerge from the cervical region. By far, the most common cause of neck pain is the spasm of the para-vertebral muscles of the neck.
The main causes of these problems are 1) Spondylosis, 2) Herniated inter-vertebral disks, 3) Fibro-myalgia and myo-fascial pain syndromes. Though the three refer to three different entities, they are interrelated and often super-imposed.
What is Herniated inter-vertebral disk? The inter-vertebral disks are made-up of two concentric layers, the inner gel like Annulus Pulposus and the outer fibrous Annulus fibrosus. As a result of advancing age, the nucleus looses fluid, volume and resiliency and the entire disc structure becomes more susceptible to trauma and compression. This condition is called as Dehydration of the disk. The disk then is highly vulnerable to tears and as these occur, the inner annulus pulposus protrudes through the fibrous layer, producing a bulge in the inter-vertebral disk. This condition is named as herniated disk. This can then cause compression to the spinal cord or the emerging nerve roots and lead to associated problems.
What is fibromyalgia and myo-fascial pain syndrome? These are conditions characterized by pain in the muscles following severe spasm associated with morning stiffness, disturbed sleep, a feeling of swelling and have clear trigger points. These points are tender and when palpated produce the typical pain.
Symptoms of Cervical Spondylosis
neck pain (may radiate to the arms or shoulder)
loss of sensation or abnormal sensations of the shoulders, arms, or legs
weakness of the arms or legs
neck stiffness that progressively become worse
loss of balance
headaches, particularly in the back of the head ,Muscle spasms
loss of control of the bladder or bowels (if spinal cord is compressed)
You may feel or hear grinding or popping in the neck when you move.
permanent disability (occasional)
General tiredness and anxiety - can be present.
Cervical spondylosis vs Ankylosing spondylosisEven though ankylosing spondylitis and cervical spondylitis sound similar, they are different. Spondylitis is a term relating to "wear and tear" and is more common with the people of older age .Ankylosing spondylosis relates to an inflammatory condition in which new bone is produced and then leads to fusion. The vigorous exercise therapy suggested for people with ankylosing spondylosis might be harmful to those suffering from spondylitis.
Does Cervical Spondylosis affects other organs
Consequences
Increasing neck pain is a key indication of cervical spondylosis. It may be the only symptom in many cases. Examination shows that ability to flex the head to the side and to rotate the head becomes limited.Weakness or sensation losses indicate damage to specific nerve roots or to the spinal cord.The condition gradually progresses with age and the patients develop diminition in the range of movement in all directions apart from Myelopathy (Degeneration of the myelin sheath of the nerves) leading to weakness, atrophy, difficulty in using the small muscles of the hands and sensory loss in the extremities. Herniated cervical disk:- Herniation of the cervical disk produces problems according to the site of herniation and if the bulge is central it can lead to compression of the spinal cord leading to de-myalination and to myelopathy charecterised by a feeling of chillness, loss of bladder and bowel control and generalized lack of strength of the muscles in the region below the site of lesion.. If lateral, it may compress the emerging spinal nerve roots and produce symptoms like pain, numbness, loss of sensation and reduction in reflexes in the areas innervated. Fibromyalgia:- This condition only produces the immediate symptoms and does not lead to other long-term complications. It only predisposes the patient to injury.
Complications involved in Cervical spondylosis are
chronicneck pain
progressive loss of muscle function or feeling
inability to retain feces (fecal incontinence) or urine (urinary incontinence)
Loss of bladder and bowel control In extremely severe cases, if the spinal cord is affected, there will be loss of balance and also loss of bladder and bowel control.
Muscle weakness The muscles responsible for maintaining the neck in erect position can become weak.
Sensory loss The bones of the neck applies pressure over the nerves passing through them and can causes loss of sensation in the arm or fingers.
What are the current approaches to treatment of these conditions in modern medicine?
Fibromyalgia:- Treatment is often difficult and frustrating. In some patients mild analgesic drugs, heat and massage yield temporary relief. In patients with trigger points, massage or local injection with local anesthetics may give relief. For some patients combination of the above with treatment of associated psychological disorders is necessary for long-term relief. Herniated cervical disk:- Though the management of herniated disk is controversial, the first step is bed rest. For those not responding to rest, surgical removal of the bulging disk followed by fusion of the vertebrae is the only option in modern medicine. Cervical spondylosis:- Conservative management comprises of bed rest, cervical traction and use of cervical soft collar. If patients develop progressive neurological deficit, surgical removal of the disk with spinal fusion is the only option in conventional medicine.What are the long terms consequences of the above therapeutic approaches? There is no known medical treatment in modern medicine and the long term success of the conventional therapy is highly limited. Surgery offers moderate relief but is associated with the risks of a major surgery involving delicate structures and vital parts. Apart from the same, it leads to restricted mobility.
Do other systems of medicine offer better modes of treatment?
Yes. Ayurveda offers a unique concept in the management of problems of the cervical region. It offers comprehensive solutions to the problem in all stages.
How does Ayurveda interpret these conditions? Ayurveda understands the functioning of the body as comprising of three basic functions, Movement, Change and growth & stability, which are referred to as the three doshas Vata, Pitta & Kapha. These functions in a state of equilibrium lead to health and in-equilibrium to diseases. The disturbance to any one of these ultimately leads to problems related to all the three functions. Treatment in Ayurveda is aimed at restoring the equilibrium through correction of the underlying functional in-equilibrium. Treatment comprises of three approaches, Elimination (Sodhanam) of the accumulated toxic products of digestion, metabolism and the disease process , Pacification (Samanam) and correction of the entities responsible for altered functioning and Rasayanam (Rejuvenation) of the bodily tissue to regain and maintain natural strength and vitality. Vata, the principle of movement is the predominant function with the skeleto-muscular system and the nervous system. Problems relating to these systems are predominantly caused by vitiated Vata. The vitiation of vata is caused by two mechanisms. One of them is obstruction to vata due to malfunctioning of kapha and pitta. The other one is increase of vata independently as in the case of the degenerative problems. The therapeutic approach to the two types of vitiation are different. If Vata’s functions are deranged due to Kapha and Pitta, as in the case of inflammation, correcting them through elimination and pacification is the method to be adopted. For diseases due to Vata alone ( the degenerative disorders), the concept is to use medications which arrest the degenerative processes. While fibromyalgia is a condition where Vata is deranged due to Pitta and Kapha, the other two problems are due to Vata alone. The treatment of cervical spondylosis and herniated disk comprises of use of medications to arrest the degenerative process.
Natural Herbal treatment for Cervical SpondylosisIn Cervical Spondylosis,Any external massage is not of much use. Violent massage with deep pressure is very harmful for the spondylitis patient. Only gentle massage over the muscles of the neck and shoulder joints should be applied and for this purpose Mahanarayan taila is best suited. This gentle massage can be given 2-3 times a day .In winter season; this medicated oil should be gently warmed before application.Guggulu, gum resin extracted from the plant is the best medicine for the treatment of cervical spondylosis. Ayurvedic physicians for the treatment of this condition popularly use a compound preparation named as simhanada guggulu. It is given in a dose of 2-4 tablets, 4 times a day. Usually hot water or hot milk id given to the patient after the administration of this medicines. This medicine has slightly laxative effects. For the patient to recover from cervical ailments, it is necessary that this bowel should move clearly and regularly. This medicine is very much helpful for this purpose. For patients having clear motions, this medicines should be given in a dose of 2 tablets and constipated patients the dose should be 4 tablets. If the constipation is not relieved even by taking 4 tablets the dose can be further increased to 6 tablets.At night some medicines should be given to the patients, which will act as a purgative. Triphala powder is the best medicine for spondylitis. One teaspoonful of triphala should be given to the patient, mixed with a cup of warm milk and one spoon of sugar. In the motions become regular by the intake of simbanada guggulu, then triphala powder should be given only twice a week otherwise it can be given every day.Hot fomentation on the vertebrae of the neck is very useful for cervical pains.In a big handkerchief about 500gms of salt should be kept over a frying pan till it becomes tolerably hot. Then this should be applied over the neck. Care should be taken to see that it should not be too hot. In that case, it may cause burns. Sometimes patients suffering from cervical Spondylosis develop some anesthetic patches in the back, neck, shoulders and arms because of the pressure from nervous systems .The patient is therefore not able to feel the quantum of heat applied during fomentation. It should therefore be the responsibility of the attendant to examine the heat of the bolus before applying it on the affected parts .This fomentation should be continued about ½ an hour every day.After fomentation the affected part should not be exposed to cold wind. In winter season therefore immediately after fomentation, the affected part should be covered with some wool engarment. In other seasons also the affected part should be kept covered with some cotton garments after fomentation. It is very convenient to take the fomentation before bedtime. After the fomentation the patient should go to sleep so that he does not run the risk of exposure.DietSour things particularly curd, are strictly prohibited. Fried things, pulses and various preparations of pulses are also contra- indicated in this condition. Bitter vegetables like bitter variety of drumstick, neem flowers and bitter gourd are very useful. Wheat is better than rice for the patient.He should however, avoid taking refined wheat which is known as maida (flour) and suji (semolina). To some extent they are constipated and do not help the patient in the recovery.LifestyleExposure to cold,cold bath and any violent exercise of the neck muscles, including pressure, are very bad for the patients of Cervical spondulosis.Under the impression that this pain is being caused by some defects in the muscles, people undertake different types of neck exercises .While reading and writing ,one should maintain a comfortable posture. Morning walk gives some relief to the patient, but if it is cold outside the patient should always use a woolen scarf around his neck while going out of the house.
What are the commonly encountered problems relating to the cervical spondylosis?
Pain in the back of neck, shoulder and arms,hands, back of the scalp, numbness in the hands,lack of sensation in certain areas of the hands, difficulty and restriction in the movement of the neck,Head ache localized at the back of the head & giddiness on jerky neck movements,stiffness of the neck and even paraplegia occur due to spondylitis condition. The movement of the spine generally aggravates the pain of the neck. It is often associated with loss of memory and sleeplessness.
What are these caused due to?
Pain in the neck region can be caused by a variety of reasons. Different centres in and around the cervical vertebrae are sensitive to pain and problems connected with any of these regions can cause pain. The Periosteum ( The outer layer of the cervical vertebrae ), The anterior and posterior ligaments ( the ligaments which run along the vertebrae and stabilize them ), The facet joints ( the joint formed between the sideward protrusions of the vertebrae ) The para-vertebral muscles are all pain sensitive and any lesions to the above structures are capable of producing pain.
Pain, numbness and lack of sensation in the other areas are produced by problems effecting the nerves that emerge from the cervical region. By far, the most common cause of neck pain is the spasm of the para-vertebral muscles of the neck.
The main causes of these problems are 1) Spondylosis, 2) Herniated inter-vertebral disks, 3) Fibro-myalgia and myo-fascial pain syndromes. Though the three refer to three different entities, they are interrelated and often super-imposed.
What is Herniated inter-vertebral disk? The inter-vertebral disks are made-up of two concentric layers, the inner gel like Annulus Pulposus and the outer fibrous Annulus fibrosus. As a result of advancing age, the nucleus looses fluid, volume and resiliency and the entire disc structure becomes more susceptible to trauma and compression. This condition is called as Dehydration of the disk. The disk then is highly vulnerable to tears and as these occur, the inner annulus pulposus protrudes through the fibrous layer, producing a bulge in the inter-vertebral disk. This condition is named as herniated disk. This can then cause compression to the spinal cord or the emerging nerve roots and lead to associated problems.
What is fibromyalgia and myo-fascial pain syndrome? These are conditions characterized by pain in the muscles following severe spasm associated with morning stiffness, disturbed sleep, a feeling of swelling and have clear trigger points. These points are tender and when palpated produce the typical pain.
Symptoms of Cervical Spondylosis
neck pain (may radiate to the arms or shoulder)
loss of sensation or abnormal sensations of the shoulders, arms, or legs
weakness of the arms or legs
neck stiffness that progressively become worse
loss of balance
headaches, particularly in the back of the head ,Muscle spasms
loss of control of the bladder or bowels (if spinal cord is compressed)
You may feel or hear grinding or popping in the neck when you move.
permanent disability (occasional)
General tiredness and anxiety - can be present.
Cervical spondylosis vs Ankylosing spondylosisEven though ankylosing spondylitis and cervical spondylitis sound similar, they are different. Spondylitis is a term relating to "wear and tear" and is more common with the people of older age .Ankylosing spondylosis relates to an inflammatory condition in which new bone is produced and then leads to fusion. The vigorous exercise therapy suggested for people with ankylosing spondylosis might be harmful to those suffering from spondylitis.
Does Cervical Spondylosis affects other organs
Consequences
Increasing neck pain is a key indication of cervical spondylosis. It may be the only symptom in many cases. Examination shows that ability to flex the head to the side and to rotate the head becomes limited.Weakness or sensation losses indicate damage to specific nerve roots or to the spinal cord.The condition gradually progresses with age and the patients develop diminition in the range of movement in all directions apart from Myelopathy (Degeneration of the myelin sheath of the nerves) leading to weakness, atrophy, difficulty in using the small muscles of the hands and sensory loss in the extremities. Herniated cervical disk:- Herniation of the cervical disk produces problems according to the site of herniation and if the bulge is central it can lead to compression of the spinal cord leading to de-myalination and to myelopathy charecterised by a feeling of chillness, loss of bladder and bowel control and generalized lack of strength of the muscles in the region below the site of lesion.. If lateral, it may compress the emerging spinal nerve roots and produce symptoms like pain, numbness, loss of sensation and reduction in reflexes in the areas innervated. Fibromyalgia:- This condition only produces the immediate symptoms and does not lead to other long-term complications. It only predisposes the patient to injury.
Complications involved in Cervical spondylosis are
chronicneck pain
progressive loss of muscle function or feeling
inability to retain feces (fecal incontinence) or urine (urinary incontinence)
Loss of bladder and bowel control In extremely severe cases, if the spinal cord is affected, there will be loss of balance and also loss of bladder and bowel control.
Muscle weakness The muscles responsible for maintaining the neck in erect position can become weak.
Sensory loss The bones of the neck applies pressure over the nerves passing through them and can causes loss of sensation in the arm or fingers.
What are the current approaches to treatment of these conditions in modern medicine?
Fibromyalgia:- Treatment is often difficult and frustrating. In some patients mild analgesic drugs, heat and massage yield temporary relief. In patients with trigger points, massage or local injection with local anesthetics may give relief. For some patients combination of the above with treatment of associated psychological disorders is necessary for long-term relief. Herniated cervical disk:- Though the management of herniated disk is controversial, the first step is bed rest. For those not responding to rest, surgical removal of the bulging disk followed by fusion of the vertebrae is the only option in modern medicine. Cervical spondylosis:- Conservative management comprises of bed rest, cervical traction and use of cervical soft collar. If patients develop progressive neurological deficit, surgical removal of the disk with spinal fusion is the only option in conventional medicine.What are the long terms consequences of the above therapeutic approaches? There is no known medical treatment in modern medicine and the long term success of the conventional therapy is highly limited. Surgery offers moderate relief but is associated with the risks of a major surgery involving delicate structures and vital parts. Apart from the same, it leads to restricted mobility.
Do other systems of medicine offer better modes of treatment?
Yes. Ayurveda offers a unique concept in the management of problems of the cervical region. It offers comprehensive solutions to the problem in all stages.
How does Ayurveda interpret these conditions? Ayurveda understands the functioning of the body as comprising of three basic functions, Movement, Change and growth & stability, which are referred to as the three doshas Vata, Pitta & Kapha. These functions in a state of equilibrium lead to health and in-equilibrium to diseases. The disturbance to any one of these ultimately leads to problems related to all the three functions. Treatment in Ayurveda is aimed at restoring the equilibrium through correction of the underlying functional in-equilibrium. Treatment comprises of three approaches, Elimination (Sodhanam) of the accumulated toxic products of digestion, metabolism and the disease process , Pacification (Samanam) and correction of the entities responsible for altered functioning and Rasayanam (Rejuvenation) of the bodily tissue to regain and maintain natural strength and vitality. Vata, the principle of movement is the predominant function with the skeleto-muscular system and the nervous system. Problems relating to these systems are predominantly caused by vitiated Vata. The vitiation of vata is caused by two mechanisms. One of them is obstruction to vata due to malfunctioning of kapha and pitta. The other one is increase of vata independently as in the case of the degenerative problems. The therapeutic approach to the two types of vitiation are different. If Vata’s functions are deranged due to Kapha and Pitta, as in the case of inflammation, correcting them through elimination and pacification is the method to be adopted. For diseases due to Vata alone ( the degenerative disorders), the concept is to use medications which arrest the degenerative processes. While fibromyalgia is a condition where Vata is deranged due to Pitta and Kapha, the other two problems are due to Vata alone. The treatment of cervical spondylosis and herniated disk comprises of use of medications to arrest the degenerative process.
Natural Herbal treatment for Cervical SpondylosisIn Cervical Spondylosis,Any external massage is not of much use. Violent massage with deep pressure is very harmful for the spondylitis patient. Only gentle massage over the muscles of the neck and shoulder joints should be applied and for this purpose Mahanarayan taila is best suited. This gentle massage can be given 2-3 times a day .In winter season; this medicated oil should be gently warmed before application.Guggulu, gum resin extracted from the plant is the best medicine for the treatment of cervical spondylosis. Ayurvedic physicians for the treatment of this condition popularly use a compound preparation named as simhanada guggulu. It is given in a dose of 2-4 tablets, 4 times a day. Usually hot water or hot milk id given to the patient after the administration of this medicines. This medicine has slightly laxative effects. For the patient to recover from cervical ailments, it is necessary that this bowel should move clearly and regularly. This medicine is very much helpful for this purpose. For patients having clear motions, this medicines should be given in a dose of 2 tablets and constipated patients the dose should be 4 tablets. If the constipation is not relieved even by taking 4 tablets the dose can be further increased to 6 tablets.At night some medicines should be given to the patients, which will act as a purgative. Triphala powder is the best medicine for spondylitis. One teaspoonful of triphala should be given to the patient, mixed with a cup of warm milk and one spoon of sugar. In the motions become regular by the intake of simbanada guggulu, then triphala powder should be given only twice a week otherwise it can be given every day.Hot fomentation on the vertebrae of the neck is very useful for cervical pains.In a big handkerchief about 500gms of salt should be kept over a frying pan till it becomes tolerably hot. Then this should be applied over the neck. Care should be taken to see that it should not be too hot. In that case, it may cause burns. Sometimes patients suffering from cervical Spondylosis develop some anesthetic patches in the back, neck, shoulders and arms because of the pressure from nervous systems .The patient is therefore not able to feel the quantum of heat applied during fomentation. It should therefore be the responsibility of the attendant to examine the heat of the bolus before applying it on the affected parts .This fomentation should be continued about ½ an hour every day.After fomentation the affected part should not be exposed to cold wind. In winter season therefore immediately after fomentation, the affected part should be covered with some wool engarment. In other seasons also the affected part should be kept covered with some cotton garments after fomentation. It is very convenient to take the fomentation before bedtime. After the fomentation the patient should go to sleep so that he does not run the risk of exposure.DietSour things particularly curd, are strictly prohibited. Fried things, pulses and various preparations of pulses are also contra- indicated in this condition. Bitter vegetables like bitter variety of drumstick, neem flowers and bitter gourd are very useful. Wheat is better than rice for the patient.He should however, avoid taking refined wheat which is known as maida (flour) and suji (semolina). To some extent they are constipated and do not help the patient in the recovery.LifestyleExposure to cold,cold bath and any violent exercise of the neck muscles, including pressure, are very bad for the patients of Cervical spondulosis.Under the impression that this pain is being caused by some defects in the muscles, people undertake different types of neck exercises .While reading and writing ,one should maintain a comfortable posture. Morning walk gives some relief to the patient, but if it is cold outside the patient should always use a woolen scarf around his neck while going out of the house.
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