DOCTOR PANICKERS

2011-01-04T06:15:00.000-08:00

Ayurvedic Concepts of Alcoholic Poison (Madhya Visha)

2010-12-20T10:01:00.000-08:00

Ayurvedic Concepts of Alcoholic Poison (Madhya Visha)

Derivation

The word 'Mada' generally means addiction, lust or madness. From the medical point of view, it means partial loss of intellect, consciousness and discriminating power. The word 'Madhya', derived from the root word 'Mada', means which makes the person to lose his senses after consumption is called 'madhya'

Definition

In 'Sharangadhara Samhita', while defining about the 'Madhakari' property, Madhya is also included in the classified drugs. Drugs that predominantly possess Tamas and cause the derangement of the mind are called as 'Madhakari'- intoxicants.

Properties of Alcohol

The ten properties of alcohol as follows:

Light
Hot
Sharp
Finely entering
Sour
Quickly absorbed
Quick acting
Rough
Depressant
Non slimy

Alcohol has the ten opposite qualities of Ojas (Life energy), so if taken in an improper manner, it will act like a poison.

Merits and Demerits of Alcohol

Alcohol is made of multiple ingredients possessing many properties and actions, and they are intoxicating in nature; due to this, it is characterized by both merits and demerits.

It is like nectar if consumed according to the prescribed manner, in proper quantity, in proper time, with wholesome food; in accordance to one's strength and cheerful mind, alcohol works like nectar.

On the contrary, it acts like poison for those who indulge in the consumption of wine in unwholesome manner, irrespective of time of consumption and quantity, whose body constitution is rough in nature and who continuously indulges in physical activities.

Merits

Alcohol taken in an appropriate manner produces exhilaration, energy, happiness, nourishment, good health, excellent virility, and pleasant intoxication immediately.

Alcohol improves the appetite, tones up the heart, promotes the voice and complexion. It brings the feeling of refreshment, perfection and strength and removes fear, grief and fatigue. It induces sleep for the insomniac, stimulates speech for the timid speaker, awakens those who oversleep/are in sleepy mood, corrects the constipation and gives relief to the mentally disturbed. Even the disorders caused by wine are countered by wine itself.

Demerits

The person addicted to alcohol does not differentiate between the right/wrong, good/bad, happiness/unhappiness, suitable/unsuitable; he does not even know how to behave and talk.

Alcohol creates great agitation of the mind as a terrific storm does to the trees on the river bank. The fools overcome by Rajas and Tamas becomes addicted to wine and feel it to be the solution for their happiness.

Alcohol addiction produces confusion, fear, grief, anger, death and diseases like insanity, intoxication,narcosis, epilepsy and convulsions. The alcohol, which is responsible for the derangement of memory,though composed of other good qualities, is totally contraindicated for consumption.

Effects of alcohol on the body

Effects on Ojas

After the intake, alcohol enters the heart and counteracts the ten properties of Ojas with its corresponding ten properties and gives rise to mental distortions as follows:

Ojas	Alcohol
Heaviness	Lightness
Coldness	Hotness
Sweetness	Sourness
Softness	Sharpness
Clarity	Quick action
Unctuousness	Roughness
Stability	Quick absorption
Smoothness	Depressant action
Sliminess	Non-sliminess
Viscosity	Subtleness

Stages of Alcohol

Ayurveda says that the drinking of alcohol produces three stages of intoxication. The book of pathology 'Madhava Nidana' says it is of four stages.

First Stage
In the first stage, the intoxication starts when the heart is stimulated but the Ojas is not affected and the person would be more inclined towards sexual acts, there will be an increase in the seminal fluid, more pleasure and loud speech.

In the first stage, it exerts features like exhilaration, pleasure, invokes interest in foods and drinks, in instrumental and vocal music, humour and stories. It gives sound sleep and fresh awakening, does not affect the intellect, memory and perception by senses. Thus Ayurveda calls this as a stage of 'inducing pleasure'

Second Stage
In the middle stage, the person often forgets and recollects the things, has indistinct speech and voice,simultaneously speaks sense and nonsense. His movements, posture, drinking, eating and talking all are incoherent and funny.

The person becomes prominent in Rajas and Tamas, having crossed the limit of the middle stage but not reaching the third, one behaves unwholesomely; no wise person would like to enter this stage, which is with serious complications like insanity and a journey towards an unhappy destination.

Madhava Kara says that in this stage, the person indulges in irrelevant speech etc. and his appearance and behaviour seem to be psychic, drowsy and lazy. He loses self-control and discrimination power between the dos and don'ts. He disregards the elders, eats the non-eatables, thus his sensibility gets lost and due to the influence of the intoxication (Mada), the person expresses the secrets of the mind. (This stage is divided into second and third stage by Madhava Kara)

Third Stage
In the third stage of intoxication, the person becomes motionless like a cut wood, his mind becomes narcotic, confused and he appears to be dead. He neither perceives the pleasurable senses nor recognizes his own friends, family etc. He does not get the enjoyment for which the wine was taken. He becomes ncapable in recognizing good or bad, useful or harmful etc. He is condemned and disliked by all and prone to miserable diseases as a complication. (These features are described as fourth stage by Madhava Kara)

Diseases Due to Improper Use of Alcohol

Alcohol produces different types of disorders if used by persons who are in rage, frightened, thirsty, in grief,hungry or exhausted due to physical exercise, and those who have suppressed the natural urges, overloaded the stomach with excessively sour and pungent foods, taken heavy food even when the previous food is not digested, weak persons suffering from heat exhaustion, those who drink alcohol empty stomach, alone and daily develop many troublesome diseases which ultimately become fatal.

General Features of Alcoholic Intoxication (Panatyaya / Madatyaya)

The general symptoms are

Severe delusions
Pain in the heart region
Diarrhoea
Constant thirst
Fever having both heat & cold
Complete loss of appetite
Pain in head, back, flanks and joints
Tremors
Cutting pain in the vital parts
Catching pain in the back (scapular region)
Obstruction of the chest
Blindness/Unconsciousness
Cough
Dyspnoea
Total loss of sleep
Excessive perspiration
Indigestion/feeling of fullness of the abdomen
Complete body swelling - especially the limbs
Disorders of the mind
Irrelevant talk
Excessive salivation
Giddiness

Specific features of alcoholic intoxication

Ayurveda divides these into four, namely, Vata, Pitta, Kapha and the combination of all.

Vata: Stiffness of the limbs, body aches, discomfort in the heart/chest region, pricking sensation,tremors and headache.
Pitta: Excessive sweating, delirium, dryness of the mouth, burning sensation, fainting and yellowish discolouration of the body, especially eyes and nails.
Kapha: Severe vomiting, heaviness of the body, complete loss of appetite, excessive salivation and chills.
Combination of all the above: In this condition, there will be mixed symptoms due to vitiation of all the three doshas.

Ayurvedic Concepts of Hangover (Paramada)

The symptoms are as follows:

Sensation of warmth and heaviness of the limbs
Anorexia
Increased secretion of mucus
Headache
Pain in the joints

Ayurvedic descriptions of alcoholic gastritis (Pana - Ajeerna)

The symptoms are as follows:

Flatulence
Vomiting
Acid eruptions
All the symptoms of aggravated Pitta

Alcoholic Giddiness (Pana - Vibhrama)

The symptoms are as follows:

Pricking pain in the cardiac region and body
Vomiting
Fever
Feeling as if the internal organs are covered with smoke
Fainting
Expectoration of mucous
Headache
Pyrosis
Aversion to alcohol and food

Treatment

This can be explained in two ways:

General treatment
Specific treatment

General Treatment

According to the vitiated dosha.
Administration of alcohol as medicine: The diseases which arise from inadequate, improper use of alcohol etc. get cured by the same if administered properly with great caution. Charaka says that,because of the vitiated doshas, Vata get obstructed in the channels and produces severe pain; by proper administration of alcohol, Vata gets its normal movement and thereby makes the body normal.
Administration of milk: If the above methods are not yielding good results, then administration of wine should be stopped immediately and use of milk should be started. After the dryness and burning sensation etc. are reduced, milk should also be withdrawn slowly with substitutes of diet.
Psychological measures: Alcohol does not cause alcoholism without causing agitations of the mind and causing morbidity in the body, hence exhilarating measures are necessary. Following measurements may help in fast recovery from the intoxication: beautiful parks, ponds with lotus flower, good food and drinks, pleasing companions, garlands, perfumes, washed clothes, melodious music, entertaining parties,ample arrangement of talks, jokes and songs and beloved and submissive women etc. alleviate alcoholism in no time.

Specific Treatment

Vata madatyaya: Maricha, Ardraka, Deepya, and Kushta mixed with Sauvarchala lavana taken with wine / Prthvika, Deepyaka, Mahaushadha and Hingu along with Sauvarchala lavana should be dispensed as a beneficial recipe. One should use the drinks prepared with juices of Amra, Amrataka, Dadima,Matulunga / meat soup/ meat soup mixed with the above juices should be given.
Pitta madatyaya: The wine should be mixed with the decoction of drugs belonging to sweet taste mixed with honey, sugar and the good flavors are beneficial. After taking this wine, one should take concentrated sugarcane juice, after some time he should be made to vomit. Then non-sour preparations like meat juice of Lava, Aina and Tittira or greengram soup with sugar and ghee should be provided to drink.
Kapha madatyaya: Vomiting should be induced by using wine mixed with the juice of Bimbi and Vidula.Meat soup of animals with bitter and pungent spices should be given. Soups of pulses, processed with bitter and pungent spices, are also beneficial.
Vata+ Pitta+ Kapha madatyaya: Combination of all the above.

Treatment for hangover (Paramada)

Kashmarya, Dharu, Vida, Dadima & Pippali along with Draksha should be added to water and drink should be made, to which Beejapuraka juice should be added and if quickly taken as a drink, the condition of Paramada gets totally relieved in no time.
Draksha, sugar, Madhuka, Jeeraka, Dhanyaka, and Trivrit should be similarly prepared and taken as a drink.
On the same day, meat soup of animals (wild, fatty) with Sauvarchala salt and citreous fruits juices should be advised. Bath with water processed with Bharangi root is also beneficial.

Treatment for Pana- Ajeerna

Ikshvagu, Damargava, Vrkshaka, Kakahvayo, Damabarika should be cooked with milk and given in an Anjali (Measurement) to induce vomiting.
Further, in the evening, the person should drink the wine again as prescribed to restore the digestive fire.

Treatment for Pana Vibrama

Syrup prepared from Draksha, Kaphitta, Citreous fruits and Dadima with lot of honey and sugar Pana Vibrama.
In the same way, Amrataka and Kola should be used as syrup.
Syrup prepared from Karjuraka, Vetraka, Kareera, Draksha, Trivrit, and Sripati with sugar should be used in the cold state.
Tender leaves of latex trees, Bisa, Jeeraka, Naga Pushpa, Patra, Ilavalu, Sitasariva, Padmaka, Arata,Bhavya, Karamardha, Kaphitha, Kola, Vrkshamla, Vetraphala, Jeeraka and Dadima should be taken after adding Yashti and Utphala as a cold drink.

One who, after discontinuing the intake of wine, again starts taking it in excessive quantity suffers from the diseases named 'Dhvammasaka' and 'Vikshaya'. They are curable with difficulty and manageable particularly in the person debilitated by disorders.

Dhvammasaka

Signs and Symptoms

Excessive salivation
Dryness of the throat and mouth
Intolerance to sound
Excessive drowsiness
Excessive sleep

Vikshaya

Signs and Symptoms

Abnormality in the throat and heart
Mental confusion
Vomiting
Pain in the body
Fever
Thirst
Cough
Headache

Management of 'Dhvammasaka' and 'Vikshaya'

The management is the same as that of Vata Madatyaya. Such a person should be given medicated enema,medicated ghee, milk, ghee massage, unction, bath, foods and drinks which cause alleviation of Vata. By the above mentioned therapeutic measures, 'Dhvammasaka' and 'Vikshaya' get alleviated.

Gods of Ayurveda

2010-12-07T22:24:00.000-08:00

Ayurveda is ascribed a divine origin. Many different sources tell about different gods and people about the origin of Ayurveda. In Kerala Ayurveda practicing starts with addressing Dhanwantary Gods (Rudra Dhanwantarikal) in plural, not as a single entity. They also ascribethe origin of Ayurveda to Aswini Gods.

There is confusion about Dhanwantary as an incarnation of Lord Vishnu or a group of gods who transcribed the knowledge of life (Ayurveda) to humankind.

A story tells Lord Dhanvantary appeared from the ocean with a pot of divine nectar of immortality, while the gods and demons were churning the ocean of milk (palazhi). This story undermines Dhanvantary as an incarnation of Lord Vishu, because Lord Vishnu was in the form of a tortoise supporting the Mandara Mountain, which was used to churn the ocean.

This dhanvantary has four arms, each bearing different items signifying the different specialties in Ayurveda. One among the objects is a leech, signifying surgery in Ayurveda.

A re-incarnation of this Dhanvantary occurred when the King of Kasi was able to ask Lord Dhanvantary as his son. Lord Dhanvantary, responding to the deep penance the King of Kasi was in, agreed to be born in human form. He, as the son of the King of Kasi remained an ascetic, but was forced to become the King of Kasi. He prepared the treatises of Ayurveda on all the eight limbs of Ayurveda.

The story of Ashwini Gods
Ashwini Gods or Aswini kumaras were said to present the knowledge of Ayurveda to Lord Indra, the king of Gods. Lord Indra gave this knowledge to Dhanvantari, Kashayapa and Bharadwaj. These three seers are still held in esteemed position by Ayurveda practitioners.

Aswini Twins and Lord Dhanvantary (Dhanvatars) are regarded as gods of Ayurveda.

2010-10-18T11:06:00.000-07:00

TURMERIC POWDER AND MEDICINAL VALUES

Medicinal uses and home remedies with turmeric(Haldi)

Intestinal disorders:
• The juice of the raw root or the powder of the dried root mixed and taken with milk or water is very effective for intestinal problems.
• The same juice is good for new mothers soon after delivery. It not only helps in faster contraction of ovaries and inner parts after delivery, but also improves the overall health and promotes breast milk secretion.

Anemia:
Turmeric is a rich and ample source of iron. Have a teaspoon of raw turmeric juice with a bit of honey, if suffering from anemia.

Asthma:
A teaspoon of turmeric powder with a glass of warm milk helps in fighting bronchial asthma and cough. It not only gives relief but also acts as a preventive from further attacks.

Sprains and wounds:
Apply a medicinal paste of turmeric (turmeric powder mixed with sweet lime juice and salt) on sprain swellings. This paste gives quick and long lasting relief. Powder of turmeric should be sprinkled on wounds/ulcers for speedy healing.

Cuts and burns:
It should be immediately applied on cuts, bleeding or burns. It is an antiseptic and stops bleeding and heals the cut or burn.

Ginger as Medicine

2010-10-17T01:29:00.001-07:00

What is Ginger
Ginger is a strengthening food that has long been used to maintain health. Ginger has a long history of both culinary and medicinal use in Chinese, Japanese and Indian medicines. In ancient China, ginger was regarded as a healing gift from God and was commonly used to cleanse and warm the body.

Qualities of Ginger
The major active ingredients in ginger are terpenes and oleoresin called ginger oil. These two, and other active ingredients in ginger, provide antiseptic, lymph-cleansing, circulation, and constipation relief qualities.

Ginger is good for the respiratory system
It is good to fight against colds and flu
Ginger offers substantial protection from stroke and heart attack because of its ability to prevent blood clotting
Ginger, a multifaceted herb, is crucial in the battle against cardiovascular disease
Relieves headaches and pains
Helps to clear sore throats
Good for upset stomach and indigestion.
It is very effective as a cleansing agent through the bowels and kidneys and also through the skin

Some of the problems cured by Ginger

Colds/Flu
Kills influenza virus by improving immune system's ability to fight infections. Ginger also relieves headaches.
Increases Circulation
Increases the muscular contractions of the heart atria, there by increase in overall circulation. Ginger has been proven to prevent internal blood clots and lowers blood pressure.. Ginger Root stimulates the central nervous system controlling the heart and respiratory centers. Ginger helps reduce serum cholesterol, which can slow down circulation.
Ginger Relieves Motion/Morning Sickness
Ginger is one of the most effective herbal remedies to get rid of Motion/ Morning Sickness.
Digestive Aid - Indigestion, Stomach Ache
Ginger Root increases production of saliva in the mouth and dramatically increases digestive enzyme amylase in the saliva to additionally aid digestion. Ginger Root also contains a very effective digestive enzyme zingibain.
Skin
Very cleansing - reduces pus in infected wounds as well as boils. Clears spots caused by chicken pox and shingles. Useful for burns, sores, sunburn, ringworm, warts, herpes, athletes foot and even for dandruff..
Stress Protection
Ginger Root appears to limit the effects of adrenergic stimulation and there by relieves the stress
Arthritis
As Ginger root is a proven anti-inflammatory agent, some arthritic victims may find it helpful.
Ginger is sometimes recommended as an alternative to aspirin for people who can not take aspirin because of its irritating effect on the gastrointestinal tract.

Ginger as Medicine

2010-10-17T01:29:00.000-07:00

Colds/Flu
Kills influenza virus by improving immune system's ability to fight infections. Ginger also relieves headaches.
Increases Circulation
Increases the muscular contractions of the heart atria, there by increase in overall circulation. Ginger has been proven to prevent internal blood clots and lowers blood pressure.. Ginger Root stimulates the central nervous system controlling the heart and respiratory centers. Ginger helps reduce serum cholesterol, which can slow down circulation.
Ginger Relieves Motion/Morning Sickness
Ginger is one of the most effective herbal remedies to get rid of Motion/ Morning Sickness.
Digestive Aid - Indigestion, Stomach Ache
Ginger Root increases production of saliva in the mouth and dramatically increases digestive enzyme amylase in the saliva to additionally aid digestion. Ginger Root also contains a very effective digestive enzyme zingibain.
Skin
Very cleansing - reduces pus in infected wounds as well as boils. Clears spots caused by chicken pox and shingles. Useful for burns, sores, sunburn, ringworm, warts, herpes, athletes foot and even for dandruff..
Stress Protection
Ginger Root appears to limit the effects of adrenergic stimulation and there by relieves the stress
Arthritis
As Ginger root is a proven anti-inflammatory agent, some arthritic victims may find it helpful.
Ginger is sometimes recommended as an alternative to aspirin for people who can not take aspirin because of its irritating effect on the gastrointestinal tract.

13 health benefits of virgin coconut oil

2010-10-16T02:19:00.000-07:00

What is Virgin coconut oil ?
Virgin coconut oil is derived from fresh coconuts (rather than dried, as in copra). Most oils marketed as "virgin" are produced one of three ways:
1. Quick drying of fresh coconut meat which is then used to press out the oil.
2. Wet-milling (coconut milk). With this method the oil is extracted from fresh coconut meat without drying first. "Coconut milk" is expressed first by pressing. The oil is then further separated from the water. Methods which can be used to separate the oil from the water include boiling, fermentation, refrigeration, enzymes and mechanical centrifuge.
3. Wet-milling (direct micro expelling). In this process, the oil is extracted from fresh coconut meat after the adjustment of the water content, then the pressing of the coconut flesh results in the direct extraction of free-flowing oil.

Benefits of Virgin coconut oil
1 The oil promotes weight loss as well as weight maintenance
2 It provides a source of antimicrobial lipid
3 The oil does not interfere with functioning of the thyroid
4 It protects against heart disease
5 It helps prevent cancer
6 It is easy on the digestion system
7 It empowers the immune system
8 The oil does not contain cholesterol, thereby not increasing the cholesterol
level in the blood
9 Does not cause the stickiness of platelets that causes the formation of blood
clots
10 The oil helps prevent bacterial, viral and fungal infections.
11 Coconut helps to prevent osteoporosis.
12 It helps in keeping diabetes under control
13 It is known to keep the skin soft when used externally

Here is what you should see for an Extra Virgin Coconut Oil :

Colorless and crystal clear.
Light, fresh coconut aroma
Natural Coconut taste
Quick absorption
No oily feel
Very light viscosity

Advantages :

High purity: without refining.
Used as food oil as well as in high-end formulations.
Excellent in body care.
Long shelf life.

TO lose weight
Do you consume virgin coconut oil but still don’t lose weight? So what could be the problem?
Many studies and facts have shown that virgin coconut oil is effective in helping to reduce body weight. It contains fewer calories than other fats and also has a group of fats known as Medium-Chain Triglycerides (MCT) that are used by the body as an instant source of energy.

MCTs are easily digested by the body and they don’t produce body fat. Hence, numerous studies and experiences in the past have led us to a conclusion that if virgin coconut oil is added consistently to a balanced diet, it shall show incredible results in weight loss. But, why there are still some people who complain that they just couldn’t lose weight after consuming virgin coconut oil? Well, I say we have several possibilities here. There are some factors that could influence the weight loss results in this case:

1. How long have you consumed virgin coconut oil?
2. How old are you?
3. How are you, really?

The answers to these questions do influence the effectiveness and the performance of virgin coconut oil in your weight loss program. Many people don’t comprehend this fact and they give up consuming virgin coconut oil in a short time, because they don’t see a significant loss in their weights. I say this is a mistake.

The first thing you should consider if you want to see great results with virgin coconut oil is the period of time you have spent consuming this oil. For most people, it takes 3-4 months to lose weight significantly by taking 3 tablespoons of virgin coconut oil daily. For elderly people, it could take longer to gain the same effects as youngsters. That is because as you grow older, your body is used to a certain routine that it refuses any instant change. So, don’t expect a great loss in weight by consuming virgin coconut oil in a term of weeks! It takes longer than that, so be patient…

The problem for most people (including you, perhaps!) is they don't like the taste of the oil. This of course, makes it hard to regularly add the oil to your diet. Actually, if you know some simple virgin coconut oil recipes, it's easy to overcome this problem

OK, back to the factors that influence your weight loss results. The third factor is your condition. Your health condition and the medicines you take could also slow down the effects of virgin coconut oil to your body. Try taking your body temp… is it low? If it is, then there could be a metabolism problem. But, if you continue combining virgin coconut oil with a reasonable eating plan, this metabolism problem shall disappear in time. But, this means it will take longer time for you to lose weight.
That’s why you have to be consistent and patient with virgin coconut oil to see incredible results in weight los

PEPTIC ULCER

2010-02-08T04:09:00.000-08:00

Ayurveda has much to offer for treating peptic ulcer. Ayurvedic term for peptic ulcer, “Parinam shool”, is a disorder caused by the Agni bhootha.

Symptoms of Peptic Ulcer

Abdominal pain

Heart burn

Nausea

Causes of Peptic Ulcer

The main cause of the peptic ulcer is hyperacidity, a condition of excess digestive acid in the stomach. Improper life style and diet is another reason. The conditions which prop up increase in hydrochloric acid secretion cause peptic ulcer

Factors that Cause Hyperacidity

Intake of spicy and hot foods

Fasting

Irregular eating

Alcohol consumption

Stress and anxiety

Smoking

Excessive use of pain killers like aspirin, ibuprofen etc

Excessive intake of tea and coffee

Treatment for Peptic Ulcer

Ayurvedic treatment for peptic ulcer is aimed at two things, 1) to reduce the quantity of digestive fluids produced in the stomach 2) To neutralise the digestive acids

Here are some Ayurvedic and herbal remedies for peptic ulcer:

Home Remedies

Eat more banana and plantain

Drink cold milk

Drink more water

Drink juices of raw vegetables like cabbage

Take small meals frequently (do not overeat)

Take barley, papal, paraval prepared with honey

Ayurvedic Remedies

Sukhumara Ghrita is widely prescribed for peptic ulcer

Snehapanam, a medicated ghee, is a treatment used for Peptic Ulcer

Take Avipatrika Churna regularly

Amalpitanthak Loh, Leela Vilas ras and Chanderkala Ras are good medicines for peptic ulcer

Life style and Diet

Do not drink alcohol, tea, coffe, cola or smoke, instead, take barley water regularly

Do not use aspirin and other pain killers

Eat food timely

Relax yourselves

Avoid spicy, hot and fried foods

Avoid garlic, yogurt, ginger etc

Avoid baked food, breads, cakes etc

Avoid pickles and hot sausages

Dandruff Home Remedies

2009-12-11T01:04:00.000-08:00

Add six spoonfuls water, two spoonfuls pure vinegar and apply it on the scalp with cotton wool before going to bed. Tie a towel around your head to protect the pillow. Wash your hair next morning. After shampooing, rinse again with vinegar water. Continue this once a week for at least three months.

Mix a spoonful of lemon juice with two spoonfuls of vinegar and massage on the scalp. Wash your hair with an egg shampoo after this.
Soak fenugreek (methi) seeds in yogurt overnight and apply the curd on your scalp for half an hour before washing in the morning.

Hair washed with fenugreek (methi) seed paste prevents dandruff, falling hair, baldness and dandruff keeping the hair long, healthy and black. Just soak the fenugreek seeds overnight in water to soften the seeds and grind in the morning to make paste. Before hairwash, apply this paste on scalp and hair and leave it on for half an hour. Wash off with shampoo later.

Egg Pack for Dandruff: Beat two eggs and add two tablespoons of water to it. Wet the hair and apply the egg mixture over the hair. Now massage your scalp and let the mixture on for ten minutes to fifteen minutes. Then rinse the hair with lukewarm water. This will keep both dandruff and hairfall problem away from you.

Natural Anti-Dandruff Massage:

Massage your scalp with warm coconut or castor oil twice a week.
Massage with the tips of your fingers in a circular movement for at least half an hour.
Leave it on overnight and shampoo the following morning.
This prevents the hair from becoming dry and moreover prevents dandruff and falling hair by improving the circulation and strengthening the hair roots.

Acidity Home Remedies

2009-12-11T00:57:00.000-08:00

The powder of ehiretta taken with an equal quantity of sugar relieves acidity.
Chew a few holy basil (tulsi ) leaves to get relief from burning, nausea and gas.
Small pieces of onion taken with half set sweet curds and sugar relieves burning of the throat due to acidity.
Keep a small piece of jaggery (gur) in your mouth and slowly suck it. Repeat it every hour till acidity subsides.
The juice of pumpkin in doses of 60 to 120 gm oz taken with sugar relieves acidity.
Eat a few almonds when your feel heartburn symptoms.
Drink coconut water 4-5 times a day.
Drink a glass of cold milk for fast relief of heartburn and acidity.
Keep a small piece of harad (Terminalia chebula) in your mouth and chew it after every meal.
A dose of 1.5 to 2.5 gm of the fruit of soapnut taken with water is effective in relieving acidity.
Take one piece of clove and suck on it slowly.
Drink fresh mint juice slowly after meals.
Drink daily a 1 tsp juice of chebulic myroblan mixed with 1 tsp of amla (Indian gooseberry) juice.
Maintaining an upright posture for some time after food will help in preventing reflex.
Sleep with your head and shoulder on a high pillow for elevation.
Intake of raw garlic is very beneficial.

2009-12-03T10:36:00.001-08:00

Drinking Hot Water

Drinking hot water regularly is a classical Ayurvedic recommendation for balancing Vata and Kapha dosha, strengthening digestive power, and reducing metabolic waste (Ama) that may have accumulated. Boil a sufficient amount of unchlorinated tap water or (still) mineral water in an open saucepan, for at least ten minutes. Keep this water in a thermos flask and take a few sips (or more, if you are thirsty) every half-hour throughout the day. It is the frequency rather than the quantity that is important here. To increase the positive effect you can add 1-2 slices of fresh ginger (or a pinch of ginger powder) to the water when boiling it.

Exercising for Good Health

Exercise is an important part of DOCTOR PANICKERS Ayurveda but as with many good things in life, there is a limit to the amount of exercise that should be taken, and if one goes beyond this, the results will be negative rather than positive.
Do not strain the body in your daily exercise. Remain within 50% of your capacity When you begin to breathe heavily or perspire a lot, then you should stop or slow down.
Regularity is the key to success. A quarter of an hour each day is better than five hours once a week.

Do your exercise preferably in the mornings between 6 and 10 o'clock.

Follow a healthy diet, and support mind and body with Ayurvedic food supplements.
Observe the important relaxation and regeneration phase after exercise.
Practise Yoga Asanas regularly.

Daily Oil Massage

One of the most enjoyable things you can do for your body and health is to have a full-body oil massage in the morning before your bath or shower. An oil massage has a soothing effect on the nervous system (Vata), strengthens the circulation, and helps to remove toxins from the body. The Ayurvedic texts explain that the use of oil massage brings about a soft, flexible, strong and attractive body. It is extremely beneficial for the skin and should therefore be done regularly.

Guidelines for oil massage

Allow about 15 minutes, in the morning. The massage can be done either standing up or sitting down, in a comfortably warm room. Ideally the oil should be heated beforehand to a little above body temperature. Massage slowly and evenly, using the whole hand. By the end of the massage, a thin film of oil should cover the whole body.

Start by massaging the head region, with small circular movements. Then do the neck, throat, shoulders, arms and hands. Massage the limbs with long straight strokes up and down; for the joints use circular movements. The chest and stomach area should be massaged very gently. Use circular strokes on the chest, straight up-and-down strokes over the breastbone and solar plexus. For the abdomen use a slow, circular, clockwise movement. Massage the back and the base of spine up and down with the flat of the hands - as far as you can comfortably reach. The legs are done in the same manner as the arms: circular movements on the joints, straight strokes on the limbs. Finally, massage the feet and the soles of the feet. Best results are achieved if you leave the oil on for 15 minutes at least, before taking a bath or a shower, so that the body has time to absorb the oil. If you are short of time, then massage only the head, ears and soles of the feet.

Recipes for Lassi

Lassi is an Ayurvedic yoghurt drink, which not only tastes wonderful but also helps digestion and balances all the doshas. Yogurt and lassi are not considered the same thing in Maharishi Ayurveda. Lassi is best taken after lunch or late afternoon rather than evening.

Basic recipe for making lassi: Blend thoroughly one part fresh, set yoghurt with 2-4 parts water, preferably using a mixer or a whisk). The flavours may be varied to suit your taste and the season. Try cooling rose or coconut, and cardamom with a little sugar in summer, and warming almond or salt in winter.

Rose lassi: Before mixing, add a few drops of rosewater, and sweeten if desired (rosewater can be obtained in delicatessen and chemist shops).
Almond Energy lassi: Before mixing, add 1/2 - 1 teaspoon of "Almond Energy" powder.
Coconut lassi: Add a dash of coconut milk or coconut puree, and cane sugar if desired. An added refinement could be to add a pinch of vanilla and cardamom.
Digestive lassi (helpful for gas problems): Add some rock salt, ground cumin, and two pinches of cumin, half a tsp of fresh coriander chopped. According to Ayurveda, salt lassi is particularly good for the digestion.
Also try lassi with vanilla, cardamom or cinnamon.
Relaxed Meals for Good Health

The following tips on healthy eating are simple and yet very effective. If your eating and dietary habits are substantially different from these, introduce the Ayurvedic guidelines gradually. These tips are for educational purposes only and should not be used to treat, diagnose or mitigate a disease. If you are under the care of a doctor check with her/him the suitability for you of these suggestions.
Eat only when genuinely hungry and when your last meal is fully digested (about 3-6 hours after a main meal).
Eat in a quiet and relaxed atmosphere. While eating you should not read, work or watch television. Always sit down to eat.

Do not over eat. After eating, the stomach should be only up to 3/4 full.
Sit quietly for 5-10 minutes at the end of each meal
Lunch should be the main meal of the day. Breakfast and evening meals should be light. The evening meal should not be taken too late.

In the evening avoid heavy foods such as meat, fish, yoghurt, cheese, buttermilk and fromage frais.
Try to be regular in your meal times. Eat at the same times each day.
Avoid eating between meals. Instead drink hot water, or if necessary eat ripe sweet fruit.
Food should be freshly prepared; it should be wholesome and should taste good. Avoid reheated or stale food.
Most of one's food should be cooked, as the body can more easily absorb cooked food. Raw food should be eaten only as a side dish (e. g. salad).
Make use of culinary spices. They not only make the food tasty, but support the digestive processes as well.
Include all 6 tastes in each meal: sweet, sour, salty, pungent, bitter, and astringent. The tastes also have their own influence on the subtle inner balance of the physiology.
During meals you may sip liquids such as water, juice or lassi. Do not drink a lot and avoid ice-cold drinks - they dampen down the digestive processes.
Milk should not be drunk with the main meal. It can be taken alone or with a light meal of sweet tasting foods (e.g. toast, cereals etc). Minimise food of other tastes.
Honey should not be heated above body temperature (40 degrees C) and therefore should not be used in cooking or baking.

Take appropriate food supplements as required.

Ghee or Clarified Butter

Ghee has many fine qualities according to ayurveda. Used in cooking it enhances the sattva or pure quality in food. Also it acts as a digestive. It is good for both Vata and Pitta. Take 250g or more unsalted butter and melt slowly in a large pan. Gently simmer for 30-40 minutes. When the frothing has stopped and the ghee is clear and golden brown, remove from the heat and strain through muslin into glass jars. Ghee does not need to be refrigerated.
Cleansing

Profound but gentle cleansing is an important element of Panchakarma treatment. At home Ayurveda recommends a short period of gentle cleansing at the start of each season and especially in springtime. The general advice is to follow a light diet for about ten days, together with regular drinking of hot water and food supplements to support the digestive power. It is best to consult DOCTOR PANICKERS to get a programme tailored for your own needs.

Digestion is the key to good health

2009-09-29T06:16:00.000-07:00

When discussing the practice of Ayurveda with friends and colleagues most have expressed an apprehension about the strict rules regarding diet and food intake. “I cannot stick to the pathyam” is what many say. In Ayurveda, food and its digestion is the key to good health. It is not possible to eat whatever you want, whenever you want, in any combination you like and expect to keep good health.

What you eat influences the three doshas. Some foods deplete a specific dosha and others enhance it. If you have aches and pains, the dosha that is probably vitiated is vata. You have to eat foods that lessen vayu and not enhance it.

Being a typical Malayali, I love my sambar made from toor dal (tuvara paruppu). But I’d constantly suffer from vague aches and after-meal burping. Then I realised toor dhal increases vayu. It causes flatulence and gas. Simply avoiding sambar or substituting the toor dal with the less gas producing green-gram without the skin the problem to a large extent.

Ayurvedic vaidyars are seemingly obsessed with the digestive process. Agni or the digestive fire has to be maintained just right. If the agni burns too fiercely, the food is burnt; too low, it is not properly cooked or digested. If the agni burns steadily the food is cooked or digested just right. Only properly digested food contributes to good health. Often, vaidyars will ask you embarrassing questions about the texture and colour of your faeces and the colour of your urine. This helps in understanding the root cause of the problem.

Vaidyars will repeatedly admonish you not to eat anything before your previous meal has digested properly. It means that you give at least a three-hour gap between one meal and the next. The notion that you should frequently eat small meals, sometimes advocated for diabetics, is wrong. Once the digestive process starts, it does not make sense to interrupt it by adding some more food into the stomach. The newly added food will prevent full digestion of the earlier consumed food. The products of incomplete digestion create toxins or ama, vitiates the doshas and is a primary cause of diseases.

If you had a meal that causes you acute digestive discomfort, the best thing to do is to induce vomiting and throw it up. If you feel a little queasy about doing so you can take half to one teaspoon of ashta chooranam with diluted buttermilk or lukewarm water. A little bit of ashta chooranam can be had with rice or idlis on a regular basis and is a good digestive aid. It is part of my travel kit.

Ashta chooranam is also readily available in most ayurvedic pharmacies. It has been in use for over a thousand years. Hence, it’s unlikely to be withdrawn from the market like Lomotil, a popular yesteryear allopathic drug for treating diarrhoea!

Ashta Chooranam

It can be easily prepared at home. Take equal parts of dried ginger (chukku), black pepper (milagu), long pepper (thippili), ajowan seeds (omam), rock salt (kalluppu), cumin seeds (jeeragam), nigella seeds (karum jeeragam) and asafoetida (perungayam). Gently fry separately the dried ginger (after pounding it a bit), the long pepper, the cumin seeds and the nigella seeds. Powder the

ingredients separately, sieve and mix.

Ashta chooranam is available in most ayurvedic shops.

H1N1: Exploring desi treatment options

2009-08-16T21:33:00.000-07:00

The swine flu panic is spreading even more faster than the flu itself. But the alternative medicines too are keeping pace with the two, considering the side effects of Tamiflu.

This is not just restricted to India, even the countries across the globe are exploring the same.

Wonder herb Tulsi can not only keep the dreaded swine flu at bay but also help in fast recovery of an afflicted person, Ayurvedic practitioners claim.

"The anti-flu property of Tulsi has been discovered by medical experts across the world quite recently. Tulsi improves the body's overall defence mechanism including its ability to fight viral diseases. It was successfully used in combating Japanese Encephalitis and the same theory applies to swine flu,"

Apart from acting as a preventive medicine in case of swine flu, Tulsi can help the patient recover faster.

"Even when a person has already contracted swine flu, Tulsi can help in speeding up the recovery process and also help in strengthening the immune system of the body,"

"Tulsi can control swine flu and it should be taken in fresh form. Juice or paste of at least 20-25 medium sized leaves should be consumed twice a day on an empty stomach."

This increases the resistance of the body and, thereby, reduces the chances of inviting swine flu.

Mashed garlic, boiled ginger, coconut oil, cow urine and cow dung all these might not be related, but they are looked upon for as a solution to the dreaded ‘swine flu,’ which has taken the lives of over 20 people in the Country.

Panchagavya, a formulation comprising cow milk, cow urine, cow dung as well as ghee and curd made from cow milk can prevent flu-like infections including swine flu by acting as an immuno-modulator.

Various Ayurvedic medicines, particularly those prepared from cow products, have for centuries proved potent to build resistance against infectious diseases like flu. We would advise people to take the same along with modern medicines prescribed by experts.

Cow urine concentrate, called ‘Ark’, could be extremely useful in protecting people against the virus and "probably" also in providing relief to those who have already caught the infection.

Garlic as the best preventive medicine. “By tying a cloth containing mashed garlic around your neck, you can keep the virus at the bay, it has been an effective medicine".

Ginger- Peper Kashaya’ added with jaggery too is an effective medicine which can build in immunity in the body. Another doctor said consuming hot water along with lemon will increase the immunity among people.

If you maintain your body's immunity, you will not fall prey to viruses. Ayurveda offers simple and effective remedies to boost immunity

HANDBOOK Of Life

2009-07-21T21:06:00.000-07:00

Health:

1. Drink plenty of water.

2. Eat breakfast like a king, lunch like a prince and dinner like a beggar.

3. Eat more foods that grow on trees and plants and eat less food that is manufactured in plants.

4. Live with the 3 E's -- Energy, Enthusiasm, and Empathy.

5. Make time to practice meditation, yoga, and prayer.

6. Play more games.

7. Read more books than you did in 2008.

8. Sit in silence for at least 10 minutes each day.

9. Sleep for 7 hours.

10. Take a 10-30 minutes walk every day. And while you walk, smile.

Personality:

11. Don't compare your life to others'. You have no idea what their journey is all about.

12. Don't have negative thoughts or things you cannot control. Instead invest your energy in the positive present moment.

13. Don't over do. Keep your limits.

14. Don't take yourself so seriously. No one else does.

15. Don't waste your precious energy on gossip.

16. Dream more while you are awake.

17. Envy is a waste of time. You already have all you need.

18. Forget issues of the past. Don't remind your partner with his/her mistakes of the past. That will ruin your present happiness.

19. Life is too short to waste time hating anyone. Don't hate others.

20. Make peace with your past so it won't spoil the present.

21. No one is in charge of your happiness except you.

22. Realize that life is a school and you are here to learn. Problems are simply part of the curriculum that appear and fade away like algebra class but the lessons you learn will last a lifetime.

23. Smile and laugh more.

24. You don't have to win every argument. Agree to disagree.

Society:

25. Call your family often.

26. Each day give something good to others..

27. Forgive everyone for everything.

28. Spend time with people over the age of 70 & under the age of 6.

29. Try to make at least three people smile each day.

30. What other people think of you is none of your business.

31. Your job won't take care of you when you are sick. Your friends will. Stay in touch.

Life:

32. Do the right thing!

33. Get rid of anything that isn't useful, beautiful or joyful.

34. GOD heals everything.

35. However good or bad a situation is, it will change.

36. No matter how you feel, get up, dress up and show up.

37. The best is yet to come.

38. When you awake alive in the morning, thank GOD for it.

39. Your Inner most is always happy. So, be happy.

Tips of the day

2009-07-06T00:40:00.000-07:00

To get instant energy and calorie replenishment, eat dried fruits. They are the easiest source of calories and have plenty of iron. They are also handy to carry around.

Make drinking your habit - get at least 1 litre of fluids per day, to help absorb nutrients better. Water in fluids is the best solvent and a good lubricant for joints.

To get instant energy and calorie replenishment, eat dried fruits. They are the easiest source of calories and have plenty of iron. They are also handy to carry around.

Avoid junk snacks when struck with in-between-meals hunger pangs. Keep dried fruit and nuts in your desk drawer for nutritious and quick mid-morning or mid-afternoon snacks.

Get yourself food high in fiber, like beans, peas, cereals and breads. Fiber helps the digestion process and inhibit bacteria formation.

Maintain the correct posture at work to reduce your stress levels. If you work on a computer, make sure your feet are flat on the floor, your back is straight, and you aren’t tilting your head to look at the computer monitor. Your hands should also be in a comfortably position with the elbows bent at 90 degrees.

To liven up your work environment and create a positive experience, keep plants in the office. Research shows that people working in an office with plants feel more attentive to work.

Keep up a regular exercise regimen. You can even follow simple routines like biking, dancing to favourite songs, jumping rope or just taking a short walk.

Getting enough sleep is necessary for a healthy life. Take a break in between work to get a short nap and see how fresh you feel.

If you sit and work in the same position, do some stretch-out exercises every hour or so. You can do simple movements like reaching to the ceiling, turning your head from side to side, rolling your shoulders, arching your back, standing on tiptoe or touching your toes.

Regular exercising improves the way you look. Your facial muscles become taught and glow with the extra pumped up blood.

How these home remedies and natural cures works?

2009-06-22T00:29:00.000-07:00

Herbs, spices, condiments, fruits and vegetables are naturally occurring gifts of nature. They have been endowed with the unique capacity to absorb inorganic substances from the earth, water, fire, air, ether, and convert them into life-giving, life-supporting vital ingredients. The human body too is a living entity, and each individual body has its own life force which sustains it. When we look for herbal remedies in natural substances, we want something which is easily assimilate.

The medicament present in these remedies is in the form of alkaloids, essential oils, enzymes, trace elements and minerals. Once absorbed they are assimilated only in the quantity needed by the body. The active ingredient is in the natural form needed to bind to a receptor site where the vital action has to take place, in order to balance the disturbed agent, host and environment equation. There are no synthetic constituents added, as in commercial preparations, which work on the principle that a vehicle (synthetic constituent) is needed to ensure the absorption of an arbitrarily decided, fixed amount of a drug.

Modern medicine laboratory or clinical drug trials, blind and double-blind studies, determine that a certain level of the drug has to be maintained in the body to rid it of nocuous symptoms. This by itself may initially have a beneficial effect, but sustaining pre-determined, 'scientifically' approved levels in the long run also gives rise to excess intake, drug-induced/drug dependent diseases. So the right natural herbal remedy, taken at the first physical symptoms, manifestations or signs of disorder, helps the body's own healing mechanism. Since these are alternative natural medicine and a part of one's daily diet, excess of any kind is excreted.

Herbs should always be gathered fresh, early in the morning when their natural oils are at the maximum-herbal natural oils are highly volatile, and the steadily increasing heat of the ascending sun depletes them. Dosage of herbal home remedies and alternative medicine.
Whatever is prescribed for an adult, half that for a child of 6-12 years; half that for one of 2-6 years; and half that for one 1-2 years old. Give it in drop doses to half a teaspoon to a baby. The alternative herbal home medicine are usually administered three to four times a day.

These alternative medicine (herbal home remedies) should only be tried for a three-day period. If there is no relief from symptoms within that time, expert opinion is needed, with specific treatment under medical supervision. The alternative medicines can still be taken as complementary adjuvant's, but with the consent of the specialist. Sometimes there are individual idiosyncrasies, depending on physical constitutional variations that need to be borne in mind. People may not be aware of this. If something does not agree with you, seek advice.

The bitter taste of a alternative herbal remedy will remain bitter, no matter how much you sugar coat it. But something which causes you to vomit, or break into a rash, when it should not, means your body is telling you its not good for you seek medical advice immediately. Also remember that anything taken in excess causes toxicity.
Some common ailments and disease which are characterized under different categories and can be healed by alternative herbal home remedies.

What is Butter milk ?

2009-06-22T00:18:00.001-07:00

Buttermilk refers to a number of dairy drinks. Originally, buttermilk was the liquid left behind after churning butter out of cream. It also refers to a range of fermented milk drinks, common in warm climates (e.g., India, or the Southern USA) where fresh milk would otherwise sour quickly.

Whether traditional or cultured, the tartness of buttermilk is due to the presence of acid in the milk. The increased acidity is primarily due to lactic acid, a by-product naturally produced by lactic acid bacteria while fermenting lactose, the primary sugar found in milk. As lactic acid is produced by the bacteria, the pH of the milk decreases and casein, the primary protein in milk, precipitates causing the curdling or clabbering of milk. This process makes buttermilk thicker than plain milk. While both traditional and cultured buttermilk contain lactic acid, traditional buttermilk tends to be thinner whereas cultured buttermilk is much thicker.

Production process

The fermentation that takes place in traditional buttermilk is accomplished by controlled strains of lactic acid-producing bacteria, sparking a chemical reaction due to the environment. Traditionally, before cream was skimmed from whole milk, it was left to sit for a period of time to allow the cream and milk to separate. During this time, the milk would naturally be fermented by the lactic acid-producing bacteria in the milk. One reason this was done was to facilitate the butter churning process since fat from cream with a lower pH will coalesce more readily than that from fresh cream. The acidic environment helped prevent potentially harmful microorganisms from growing, thus the soured liquid helped increase the shelf-life of the product.

Commercially available cultured buttermilk is pasteurized and homogenized (if 1% or 2% fat) milk which has been inoculated with a culture of lactic acid bacteria to simulate the naturally occurring bacteria found in the old-fashioned product. Some dairies add colored flecks of butter to cultured buttermilk to simulate the residual pieces of butter that can be left over from the churning process of traditional buttermilk.

Buttermilk solids have increased in importance in the food industry.^[ Such solids are used in ice cream manufacture. Adding specific strains of bacteria to pasteurized milk has allowed for more consistent production.

In the early 1900s, cultured buttermilk was once labeled as artificial buttermilk, to differentiate it from traditional buttermilk, which was also known as natural or ordinary buttermilk. This has since been obsolete, as cultured buttermilk is now considered to be natural.

Acidified buttermilk is a related product that is made by adding a food-grade acid to milk.

Benefits

Cultured buttermilk is lower in fat and calories than regular milk because the fat from buttermilk has already been removed to make butter. It is high in potassium, vitamin B12 and calcium. Buttermilk is more easily digestible than whole milk and it also contains more lactic acid than skim milk. Due to being more easily digestible (a result of the bacteria added to the milk), protein and calcium can be taken up more easily by the body. There are 99 kilocalories and 2.2 grams of fat in one cup of buttermilk (fat content may be different with some buttermilk brands, as some brands are made with skim milk while others are made with reduced fat milk), as opposed to whole milk that has 157 kilocalories and 8.9 grams of fat.

What is Butter milk ?

2009-06-22T00:18:00.000-07:00

Production process

Acidified buttermilk is a related product that is made by adding a food-grade acid to milk.

Benefits

Th Best Antioxidant: Pomegranate

2009-05-14T20:38:00.000-07:00

Antioxidants provide our bodies with numerous health benefits, and it’s only logical to include fruits and foods that contain antioxidants in our daily diet.

Pomegranates have just that… a high level of antioxidants. Aside from its rich flavor and the number of ways to eat and drink it, studies have shown that pomegranate contains more antioxidants than green tea, cranberries and even red wine!

By including pomegranate in your daily diet you can improve your blood flow and, in so doing… help prevent heart diseases such as heart attacks, stroke or clogged arteries.

Pomegranate also promotes healthy blood pressure levels and low cholesterol. Pomegranate juice can be helpful for men as well… as studies have concluded that it may help prevent prostate cancer and growth.

The pomegranate fruit contains many antioxidants for our bodies and eating it daily is beneficial for your health. However remember to always mix plenty of different fruits in your diet. While pomegranate is great, you should always include other fruits and juices as well.

The pomegranate (Punica granatum) is a fruit-bearing deciduous shrub or small tree growing to between five and eight metres tall. The pomegranate is native to Southwest Asia and has been cultivated and naturalized over the whole Mediterranean region and the Caucasus since ancient times. It is widely cultivated throughout Afghanistan, Algeria, Armenia, Azerbaijan, Iran, Iraq, India, Pakistan, Syria, Turkey, the drier parts of southeast Asia, Peninsular Malaysia, the East Indies, and tropical Africa. Introduced into Latin America and California by Spanish settlers in 1769, pomegranate is now cultivated in parts of California and Arizona for juice production.

In the Northern Hemisphere, the fruit is typically in season from September to February.^[3] In the Southern Hemisphere, it is in season from March to May.

Pomegranate flowers and leaves

The leaves are opposite or sub-opposite, glossy, narrow oblong, entire, 3–7 cm long and 2 cm broad. The flowers are bright red, 3 cm in diameter, with four to five petals (often more on cultivated plants). Some fruitless varieties are grown for the flowers alone. The edible fruit is between a lemon and a grapefruit in size, 5–12 cm in diameter with a rounded hexagonal shape, and has thick reddish skin and around 600 seeds. The seeds and surrounding pulp, ranging in color from white to deep red, called arils, are edible as the fruit of the pomegranate is a berry. There are some cultivars which have been introduced that have a range of pulp colors such as purple.

Punica granatum nana is a dwarf variety of P. granatum popularly used as Bonsai trees and as a patio plant. The only other species in the genus Punica is the Socotran pomegranate (Punica protopunica), which is endemic to the island of Socotra. It differs in having pink (not red) flowers and smaller, less sweet fruit. Pomegranates are drought tolerant, and can be grown in dry areas with either a Mediterranean winter rainfall climate or in summer rainfall climates. In wetter areas, they are prone to root decay from fungal diseases. They are tolerant of moderate frost, down to about −10°C (14°F).

Pomegranate aril juice provides about 16% of an adult's daily vitamin C requirement per 100 ml serving, and is a good source of vitamin B₅ (pantothenic acid), potassium and antioxidant polyphenols.^]

The most abundant polyphenols in pomegranate juice are the hydrolyzable tannins calledpunicalagins which have free-radical scavenging properties in laboratory experiments. Punicalagins are absorbed into the human body and may have dietary value as antioxidants, but conclusive proof of efficacy in humans has not yet been shown.

Other phytochemicals include beta-carotene,^] and polyphenols catechins, gallocatechins, and anthocyanins such as prodelphinidins, delphinidin, cyanidin, and pelargonidin. TheORAC (antioxidant capacity) of pomegranate juice is considered moderate when compared to other herbs and spices. The ORAC of pomegranate juice is measured at 2,860 units per 100 grams.

Many food and dietary supplement makers have found advantages of using pomegranate phenolic extracts as ingredients in their products instead of the juice. One of these extracts is ellagic acid which may become bioavailable only after parent molecule punicalagins are metabolized. However, ingested ellagic acid from pomegranate juice does not accumulate in the blood in significant quantities and is rapidly excreted. Accordingly, ellagic acid from pomegranate juice does not appear to be biologically important in vivo.

In preliminary laboratory research and human pilot studies, juice of the pomegranate was effective in reducing heart disease risk factors, including LDL oxidation, macrophage oxidative status, and foam cell formation, all of which are steps in atherosclerosis andcardiovascular disease.

Pomegranate juice has also been shown to reduce systolic blood pressure by inhibiting serum angiotensin-converting enzyme, may inhibit viral infections, and may have antibacterial effects against dental plaque.

Containing polyphenols which inhibit estrogen synthesis, pomegranate seed oil was effective against proliferation of breast cancer cells in vitro.

Metabolites of pomegranate juice ellagitannins localize specifically in the prostate gland, colon, and intestinal tissues of mice. leading to clinical studies of pomegranate juice or fruit extracts for efficacy against several diseases.

In 2008, 17 clinical trials were underway to examine the effects of pomegranate juice consumption on diseases shown below.

§ prostate cancer

§ prostatic hyperplasia

§ diabetes

§ lymphoma

§ rhinovirus infection (completed, July 2008)

§ common cold (completed, June, 2007)

§ oxidative stress in hemodialysis

§ atherosclerosis

§ coronary artery disease (completed, September, 2005)

Pippali- Pipper Longum

2009-04-05T06:30:00.000-07:00

It is one of the herbs mentioned in all ancient scriptures of Ayurveda. In Sanskrit, it possesses various synonyms, describing its properties and specialities, like usana –pungent, capala – quickly acting, krsna – black, magadhi – from Magadha region, upakulya – growing near water resources, kola improving the test sensation etc. The great sage Caraka has categorized it as dipaniya – an appetizer, kanthya – beneficial for the throat, uptighna – anti-saturative, asthapanao-paga – an adjunct to decoction enema, sirovirecaniya – a cleansing nasal therapy, purisa sangrahaniya – give form to the faeces, purisa virajaniya – give color to the stool, sita prasamana – relieve cold sensation on the skin, sulaghna – anti colic, rasayana – a rejuvenator, kasahara-anti-tussive, vamaka- emetic, hikka nigrahana – mitigates hiccup. The root of pippali, pippal mula is cited as dipaniya – an appetizer and sulaghna – anti colic. Pippali is on of the ingredients of trikatu – three pungents viz. sunthi, marica and pippali, which is the most commonly, used combination for the remedy of kapha dosha. Trikatu is anti-cold, anti tussive an well as anti-asthmatic in its properties. Pippali is a specially recommended rasayana for respiratory system (Pranavaha srotasa) and is the best rasayana rejuvenative to kapha dosha.

The plant grows all over India, in evergreen forests and is cultivated in Assam, Tamil Nadu and Andhra Pradesh. A small shrub with a large woody root and numerous creeping, jointed stems, thickened at the nodes. The leaves are alternate, spreading, without stipules and blade varying greatly in size. The lowest leaves are 5-7 cm long, whereas, the uppermost 2-3 cm long. The flowers are in solitary spikes. The fruits, berries, in fleshy spikes 2.5-3.5 cm long and 5 mm thick, oblong, blunt and blackish green in color. The mature spikes collected and dried, form the commercial form of pippali and the root radix is known as pippalimula.

The botanical name of pippali is piper longum and it belongs to family piperaceae. The fruits contain 1% volatile oil, resin, a waxy alkaloid, a terpenoid substance and alkaloids piperine and piperlongumine. The roots contain piperine, piperlongumine or piplartine. The seeds contain sylvatin, sesamin and diaeudesmin. Two new alkaloids piperlongumine (piplartine) and piperlonguminine – from roots and stem bark, isolated. Piperlingumine, piperlonguminine, piperine and sesamin isolated from roots. Two new piperidine alkaloids – pipermonaline and piperundecalidine-isolated from fruit and their structure determined. Isolation and structure determination of three new pyrrolidides-brachyamide A, brachyamide B and brachystine .

Pippali, when fresh and wet, is sweet in taste, sweet in the post digestive effect and has cold potency and heavy attribute. On drying, it is pungent in the taste, pungent in the post digestive effect and semi-hot in potency. It possesses light, sharp and fresh pippali, alleviates pitta but aggravates vata and kapha doshas. On the contrary, the dry pippali, which is commonly used, alleviates vata but aggravates pitta dosha. It is an appetizer, digestant, rejuvenative, febrifuge and a brain tonic and alleviates all the three dosas .

The fruit, commonly known as pippali itself and its root, called as pippali mula are used for medicinal purpose. Pippali is seldom used externally, in case of painful and swollen conditions, wherein its paste is applied. Though it has mild antiseptic property, it is an irritant to the skin and manifistates allergic reactions. Internally, pippali is invaluable in vast range of diseases. Pippali is the best drug recommended in the disorders of the spleen. It is a powerful stimulant for the digestive and respiratory systems. It is strongly heating and removes cold, congestion and ama – the undigested toxic elements and revives the weakened organic functions. It is also a rejuvenative to lungs and kapha dosha. Trikatu is the most popular formulation used to mitigate the diseases due to kapha dosha, to digest ama and also it increases the bioavailability of the drug, when it is used as a complementary medicine.
Pippali effectively reconciles the digestive functions and is used with benefit in anorexia, indigestion, flatulence, abdominal pain, hyperacidity, piles etc. It works well with honey to combat hyperacidity. The decoction or its medicated milk can be used for the same. Pippali is beneficial, when given with amalaki in the treatment of anemia. For treating any type of fever, the medicated ghee of pippali is very useful. In chronic fever and tuberculosis, the preparation Vardhamana pippali is more effective. In fact, Vardhamana pippali is a regimen, praised in ancient scriptures in which the doses of pippali are increased gradually. On the first day, an infusion of 3 pippalis, boiled for a few minutes in a mixture of milk and water is taken (4:1). Then for 10 successive days the dose is increased by 1 pippali everyday. After 10 days, the dose is gradually decreased by 1 pippali daily. During this regimen only milk is consumed as a diet. This method is useful in treating chronic respiratory ailments, anemia, recurrent fevers, piles and digestive problems. It strengthens the immune system of the body.

Pippali is beneficial as a brain tonic and in the diseases of vata. The decoction is effectively used in sciatica and hemiplegia. Being the best rejuvenative, pippali sidda ghrta is useful in tuberculosis, cough and with the ghee and honey, it reduces the frequency of paroxysms in bronchial asthma. It also helps controlling hiccup, when given with honey. It boosts the reproductive system too, hence, is used as an aphrodisiac. It also works well in amenorrhea. Causasti pippali is one of the unique preparations, which is prepared by fortifying the pippali powder by triburating it with the decoction of pippali itself, for the duration of 8 days (64 prahara). It makes pippali very potent and fortified, so used in very small doses. Pippali mula, the root of pippali is used in the respiratory ailments, flatulence and to induce sleep and relieve abdominal colicky pain.

Kantakari - Solanum Xanthocarpum

2009-04-05T06:23:00.000-07:00

Kantakari is a prickly, branches perennial herb with yellow, shining prickles of about 1.5 cm in size. It has very prickly, sparsely hairy, egg shaped leaves; purple flowers, round fruits, yellow in color with green veins and numerous smooth seeds. The branches are densely covered with minute star shaped hairs. Kantakari is also known as Indian solanum. The fruit of the plant constitutes the drug. The drug is bitter in taste and a mild purgative. Experiments have shown that the fruits and shoots of the plant possess antibacterial properties.The fruit of the plant yield carpersteral, glucoside-alkaloids and solanocarpine. It also yields glucoside-alkaloids, solamine-S. On hydrolysis it yield alkaloid solanidine-S.

Botanical Name: Solanum xanthocarpum

Indian Name: Kateli

Kantakari is beneficial in clearing catarrh and phlegm from the bronchial tubes. It is therefore used in the treatment of respiratory diseases like asthma, bronchitis and cough.

- Kantakari is a valuable remedy in the treatment of dropsy, a disease marked by an excessive collection of fluids in the tissues and cavities or natural hollows of the body. The drug helps increase the secretion and discharge of urine.

- It is also effective in throat disorders like sore throat and tonsillitis. An extract of the plant should be used as a gargle in such cases. This is prepared by continuously boiling the plant in about 2 liters of water after washing it thoroughly, till it reduces to half its volume and it should be filtered.

- It is useful in the treatment of constipation and flatulence. It strengthens the stomach and promotes its action. It corrects disordered processes of nutrition by which the organization ingests, digests, absorbs, utilizes and excretes food substances and restores normal function of the system. The drug also possesses anthelminitic (worm destroying) property and is useful in eliminating intestinal worms.

- The extract of kantakari, prepared as for throat disorders, is also very beneficial in gum diseases. For better results, black mustard should be boiled along with the plant.- The drug is also effective in treating several other diseases like heart disease, chest pain, certain types of fever, gonorrhea, dysuria, enlargement of the liver, muscular pains and spleen and stone in the urinary bladder. The fruit of the plant is also considered useful in treating sore throat, bronchitis, muscular pains and fevers.

- Kantakari root has been traditionally used in snake and scorpion bites. A paste of the root can be prepared by grinding it on a stone with lemon juice and applying to the affected part. The patient should be taken to the doctor immediately.

2009-03-01T07:51:00.000-08:00

BHRINGRAJ
(Botanical Name - Eclipta alba)

Family: Compositae

Origin of Herbs:This tropical annual is a creeping and moisure-loving herb; it has a short, flat or round, brown stem and small white flowers on a long stalk. It grows 3" tall; the leaves are opposite and lance-shaped.Eclipta grows abundantly in the tropics and is used with success in Ayurvedic medicine.

Habitat/Occurrence: In paddy growing areas of India, it occurs as common weed. In many parts of India it is grown commercially as a medicinal crop.

Stem: Stems and branches are hairy.

Leaves: Opposite, sessile, oblong- lanceolate; also strigose and hairy.

Flowers: In heads, involucral bracts, axillary, ray flowers ligulate; disk ones tubular.

Flowering Time: October to December in Indian conditions.Fruit: Achene.

Useful Parts: Whole plant.

Healing power and curative properties : Eclipta alba is mainly used in hair oils, but it has been considered a good drug in hepatotoxicity. In hair oils, it may be used alongwith Centela asiatica (Brahmi) and Phyllanthus emblica (Amla). It may be used to prevent habitual abortion and miscarriage and also in cases of post-delivery uterine pain. A decoction of leaves is used in uterine haemorrhage. The juice of the plant with honey is given to infants with castor oil for expulsion of worms. For the relief in piles, fumigation with Eclipta alba is considered beneficial.

The paste prepared by mincing fresh plants has got an anti-inflammatory effect and may be applied to insect bites, stings, swellings and other skin diseases. But in Ayurveda, it is mainly used in hair oil.Hair Problem:For healthy black and long hair the plant is commonly used in hair oils all over India

Loss of appetite:Fresh juice of leaves is used for increasing appetite, improving digestion and mild bowel regulator.

Liver disorders:It is commonly used in viral hepatitis to promote bile flow and protect the parenchyma.

enhancer:It is commonly used to enhance memory and learning.

Other uses: The plant has a reputation as an anti aging agent in Ayurveda. It is also used as a general tonic for debility. Externally it is used for inflammation, minor cuts and burns and the fresh leaf juice is considered very effective in stopping bleeding. Leaf juice mixed with honey is also used for children with upper respiratory infection. It is used in eye and ear infections.

Drum Stick

2009-02-08T07:14:00.000-08:00

Drumstick is a common and popular vegetable in our country. All parts of the drum - stick tree are useful. A plant that is favourably grown in the tropics, it is said to be indigenous to North - west India. It is grown in Asia, Arabia, Madacaskar, etc.
The botanical name of drumstick is - Moringa oliefera,
Syn - Moringa pterygosperma
Vernacular names - Sanskrit - Shobanjana, Hindi - Soanjana, Tamil - Murungai
General properties:- Drumstick - Stimulant, Antispas modic, Expoctorant, Diuretic, Tonic.
Drumstick flower - Aphrodisiac, Stimulant, Emmenagogue
Root - Stimulant in paralytic afflictions, Acrid, abortifacient,
Bark - Aborifacient.
Leaves - Diuretic, tonic.
Box
Ayurveda says the leaves of the moringa tree can prevent 300 diseases! And modern science confirms the basic idea.
Gram for Gram, Moringa leaves contain:
· 7 times the vitamin C in oranges and 4 times the calcium in milk.
· 4 times the vitamin A in carrots and 2 times the protein in milk.
· 3 times the potassium in bananas
Use of Moringa leaves as food was in vogue even before the vedic age. The foliage is eaten as greens, in salads in vegetable curries, as pickles and for seasoning.
100 gms of leaves contain 63% Moisture, 6.7 g protein, 1.7 g fat, 14.3 g total car- bohydrate, 0.9 g fibre, 2.3 g ash, 440 mg Ca, 70 mg P, 7 mg Fe, 110 mg Cu, 11,300 IU vit. A, 120 mg vit. B, 0.8 mg nicotinic acid, 220 mg ascorbic acid, and 7.4 mg tocopherol per 100 g. Estrogenic substances, including the antitumor compound, b - sitosterol, and a pectinesterase are also reported. Leaf amino acids include 6.0 g arginine/16 g N, 2.1 histidine, 4.3 Iysine, 1.9 tryptophane, 6.4 phenylalanine, 2.0 methionine, 4.9 threonine, 9.3 lucine, 6.3 isoleucine, and 7.1 valine.
Medicinal Uses:
Leaves
1. The leaves can be cooked like any other greens and taken. The leaves seasoned with Tuar dhal, Ginger, Garlic, Pepper, Jeera and Ghee, could be added to plain cooked rice and taken. The brain is stimulated and the nerves get toned up. Eyesight improves, Head ache, vertigo are prevented. Moringa greens are real tonic. Its vitamin A content benefits children and provides them with better vision.
2. The juice of the raw leaves, mixed with honey, taken early in the morning, gets rid of intestinal worms. Stomach ache abates.
3. The leaves cooked with ‘Til’ (sesame) are beneficial to diabetic patients.
4. Leaves ground to a paste can be applied as poultice on swellings. Fried leaves can also be used.
5. Leaves promote blood production, increase secretion of breast milk in lactating mothers.
6. Persons suffering from high blood pressure can take 15 ml of the juice of leaves with crushed pepper (10 number) and honey, daily twice.
7. The leaves reduce body heat. Improve stamina and strangth.
Drum stick
1. Drum stick, cut in to thumb length pieces, make a very tasty ‘Sambhar’. More than that it improves libido. It cures nervous debility.
2. It has diuretic propertics and helps passing urine easily.
3. Tender drum sticks, cooked and taken with skin, promotes potency, corrects loss of sperm. It cures respiratory problems. It expels intestinal worms.
Flowersru
Dry the flowers and powder. Mix 1 tsp of this powder with a glass of cow’s milk and add palmyrah sugar candy. Take this daily. It improves sperm count.
Drumstick soup
(For one person)
Ingredients
Drumstick leaves - 100 to 125 gm
Water - 250 gm
Carrot, tomato, onion, , Garlic, Drumstick, Ginger, Beans, Coriander leaves, Curry leaves All
Put together - 75 gms
Pepper, cummin seeds powdered) - a little
Optional : Flour - 20 gm
Method:
Boil the Durmstick leaves in water. Just before the water reaches the boiling point, add the cut and mashed vegtable. Immediately, on boiling, add powdered pepper and cummin seed. Strain and serve. If more thickness is required, add flour or oats or flour from sprouted grains.
Benefits of this soup
Take this soup twice a day for atleast 48 days. It helps reducing diabetic problems and need for insulin. The soup improves stamina and vitality. Good for curing nervous debility and also eye diseases. Several menstrual problems of women can be cured.
Seeds, Resin and bark
Seeds have anti - toxic properties. These are used to purify drinking water. Seeds are powdered and put in a pot of drinking water. The seeds screen the water and let the pure water gather at the top.
An oil extracted from the seeds and used for Rheumatic problems. The oil is used in soap manufacture and oil paints. Extract from the bark of the drumstick tree is used in the preparation of ‘Thailams’.
The drumstik gum / resin is added in Lehiyams prepared for improving potency, virility and libido.
Include drumstik at least once in a week in your diet. Sage Agasthiya says that regular use of drumstick makes a person gain the strength of 10 elephants!

Garlic : Natural Remedies

2008-12-31T03:38:00.000-08:00

Garlic ( Allium Sativum) belongs to the family Liliaceae. The plant has leaves which are long, narrow and flat like grass. The bulb is of a compound nature, consisting of numerous bulblets, known technically as 'cloves,' grouped together between the membraneous scales and enclosed within a whitish skin, which holds them as in a sac.

It is referred to by different names in ayurveda . The names describe its qualities. It is known as Rasona (Rasena vunaha = as it is devoid of amla rasa or sour taste) Ugraghandhi ( ugra Gandhi = as it has strong pungent smell )

It has Snigdha (sticky), teekshna (penetrating) , pichhila (slimy), guru (heavy), sara (quickly spreading) qualities. It has all rasas (tastes) except amla (sour).
It reduces kapha and vata but it should be used with lot of precautions in persons who have pitta prakruti and in patients who are suffering from rakta, pitta disorders.

Garlic contains pungent, volatile, essential oil. This oil is a sulphide of radical Allyl. The intensely smelling allyl compound has such a diffusive property that even when the crushed bulb is rubbed to the soles of the feet, its odor is exhaled by the lungs after some time.

Acharya charaka has said that garlic is an effective remedy in conditions like intestinal worm infestations, skin disorders, low libido and erectile dysfunction.

Acharya Sushruta has appreciated the uses of this herb in skin disorders, low libido and erectile dysfunction.. It also improves memory, modulates voice, enhances complexion, improves eye sight, strengthens bones and joints, improves digestion and regularizes bowel movement. It is very useful in cardiac diseases too.
As an antibiotic:
Many marvelous effects and healing powers have been ascribed to Garlic. Garlic is popularly known as ?nature's antibiotic ?.As an antiseptic, its use has long been recognized. It is very effective against fungus, Yeast and viral infections. It is said to prevent anthrax in cattle, being largely used for the purpose.

As an expectorant:
Garlic reduces increased kapha. Garlic syrup is an excellent medicine for asthma, hoarseness of voice, coughs, difficulty in breathing, and most other disorders pertaining to the lungs. As this promotes expectoration it is very useful in chronic bronchitis. Garlic is a very good remedy for whooping cough.

As a cholesterol reducing agent:
Many publications have shown that garlic supports the cardiovascular system. According to them it lowers cholesterol and triglyceride levels in the blood, inhibits platelet stickiness and slows blood coagulation. It is mildly antihypertensive and has antioxidant activity.

As an antihypertensive:
Garlic is considered as one of the most effective remedies to lower blood pressure. It eases the spasm of small arteries and reduces the pressure on them.

As a remedy in digestive disorders
Garlic stimulates peristaltic action and the secretion of the digestive juices. It eliminates body toxins. It has an antimicrobial effect and is an excellent remedy for intestinal infections. It expels intestinal worms.

As an anti inflammatory:
Garlic has anti-inflammatory properties. It is effectively used to cure arthritis, migraine and other inflammatory conditions.

Garlic in skin Disorders:
A regular consumption of garlic purifies blood and reduces minor skin infections.

Garlic and cancer:
Few studies suggest that eating garlic regularly reduces the risk of esophageal, colon and stomach cancer. This may be partly due to garlic?s ability to reduce the formation of carcinogenic compounds.

Garlic as an aphrodisiac:
Garlic is said to be a tonic for impotence. It also treats sexual debility caused by over indulgence in sex and nervous exhaustion. It is said to be very useful in older men.
Garlic has always been known as an aphrodisiac. It can improve blood circulation significantly. According to recent studies an enzyme called nitric oxide synthase (NOS) appears to be responsible for the mechanism of erection. Researches on garlic have shown that garlic can stimulate production of this enzyme.

Garlic in pregnancy
New research shows that consuming garlic during pregnancy can reduce the risk of raised blood pressure in pregnancy (Pre-eclampsia). Studies have shown that garlic may help to boost the birth-weight of babies.

Action of garlic in Herpes:
In future garlic may find its place in treatment of genital herpes. It was found that the oral or topical application of garlic or garlic extract markedly reduced the outbreak of the genital herpes virus.

Home remedies with garlic
1.Used in cookery it is a great aid to digestion, and keeps the mucosal coats of the stomach healthy.

2.A clove or two of Garlic, pounded with honey and taken two or three nights successively, is effective rheumatism.

3.Grind few cloves of garlic and pour ? cup of boiled water on it. Add this infusion to sugar syrup . This is an excellent cough expectorant to children and elderly adults.

4.when sniffed , it greatly helps in relieving hysteria.

5.Garlic juice taken with hot water twice a daily relieves asthma attacks.

6.Three cloves of garlic boiled with milk taken every day at night cures productive cough and bronchitis.
7.10 drops of garlic juice with 2 teaspoon of honey reduces the acuteness of asthmatic symptoms. It can also be administered at the time of attack.

8.Taking garlic juice with fresh water regularly reduces high blood pressure

9.Half a clove of raw garlic consumes each day can increase body activity to dissolve blood clots, thereby preventing heart attacks and strokes.

Precautions and adverse effects :
Some may experience heartburn and flatulence when they consume garlic. Individuals who are consuming anti coagulant drugs should consult their dietician before consuming garlic products as garlic has anti coagulant property. It should be used cautiously by individuals who have bleeding disorders. Garlic should never be consumed during migraine headache. Avoid rubbing garlic on skin as it causes burns and peeling of skin.

Tonsillitis ( Inflammation of Tonsils)

2008-12-28T07:42:00.000-08:00

Tonsillitis is a common enough affliction, especially in childhood. It is caused by an inflammation of the tonsils bought on by coming into contact and thus contracting an external infection.
At one time the only cure practiced was the immediate and total removal of the afflicted area and whilst this is still not uncommon, if the patient suffers from persistent bouts then the tonsils will still be removed, these days there are many herbal remedies and treatments that can both alleviate the condition and prevent further outbreak.This is a very simple home remedy for the most comman throat pain which most of us experience very often.

causes:
There are many reasons for this.Execessive stain to your vocal chords, change of weather ,change of drinking water,pain associated with tonsilitis, pain caused due to severe cold,caused due to excessive cool drinks or other frosen food consumtion etc.There are many simple remidies for this small problem .It all depends on severiety of the pain.

Here are various remedies which you can try.

1.)-.Take about 4-5 pepper corns.-Add 1/2 tsp of sugar to it and chew it properly and swallow it.This acts as a very good medicine for soare throat, voice crack, difficulty do speek during these conditions etc.
2.)-Take 2 cups of water , add 2-3 tsp of roughly powdered peppercorns. Bring this to a boil-Now to this you add 3 drops of ghee,then a inch piece of jagerry powdered plus 1/2 tsp of jeera(cumin)-Now simmer and reduce it to 1/4 cup.Filter it and i recommend to have this when its warm and sip by sip.This also helps in mild cough,cold and releives nasal bolckage also.It relieves head ache and also the nasal congestion

3.)Just add about 1tsp of triphala churna into about 20 ml of luke warm water and gargle with this solution about 10 min each time for about 4 times a day.

4)If the condition is of very severe throat pain Then i suggest Salt water gargling i.e warm water stired up with 1-2 tsp preferably rocksalt .And gargle with this for atleast 2 times a day.There is a very quick relieving medicine in ayurvedic practise .I would love to tell if some one needs it.

Ashwagandha : stress reliever

2008-12-25T21:17:00.000-08:00

Ashwagandha

Scientific Name : Withania Somnifera

Ashwagandha has a long medicinal history stemming back 4000 years. Ashwagandha is a vital drug in Ayurveda or Indian traditional medicine. This particular herb was used to treat various infectious diseases as well as tremors and inflammation especially arthritis.

Ashwagandha is a beautiful delicate plant native to India, Pakistan, and Sri Lanka. Defined by deep green leaves, branched limbs, and topped by seeded yellow flowers. Ashwagandha is a stunning in appearance and of vital importance in Ayurveda or Indian Medicine. Withania Somnifera has a long history, about 4000 years, as a holistic herb used to treat a variety of ailments.

Historically these ailments include :
Tremors
Inflammation
Infectious Diseases
Longevity
Sexual Enhancing

The shoots of the Ashwagandha shrub are used in in food and in India seeds of the Ashwagandha are used to thicken milk. African tribes also use Withania Somnifera to treat fevers, and other inflammations. Ashwagandha is usually crushed and used in a traditional Ayurvedic formula called shilajit. Ashwagandha has similar properties as ginseng. Ashwagandha is heat neutral which means it has no warming or cooling properties. Unlike ginseng which is a warming herb.
The active ingredients in Ashwagandha are alkaloids and withanoloids. It the withanoloids within Ashwagandha that give it all it's medicinal qualities. Withanoloids consist of steroidal molecules which act to fight inflammation. Aswagandha is often compared to Asian ginseng which contain molecules like withanoloids called ginsenosides. For this reason Aswagandha is occasionally called Indian ginseng. Therefore, both ginseng and Ashwagandha stimulate the immune system, stop inflammation, increase memory, and helps maintain general healthy and wellness.

Also it is known to increase the production of bone marrow, semen, and inhibit's the aging process. The modern medical uses of Ashwagandha are varied. One area in which it has been helpful is in the treatment of mental health issues. One study in particular gave 30 anxiety sufferers 40 ml doses twice a day of a solution with it's major ingredient of Withania Somnifera. After 30 days, all anxiety symptoms including panic attacks and paranoia had virtually disappeared. American therapists have also found the herb useful in treating depression. Alcohol dependency, and schizophrenia. Also, when Ashwagandha is taking regularly memory and learning skills increase dramatically.
Many studies have been conducted to see the effects of Ashwagandha on tumors, arthritis, and other forms of inflammation. The studies proved that Ashwagandha acts as an anti-tumor, anti-inflammatory agent. It's naturally occurring steroidal content is much higher than that of hydrocortisone which is a common treatment in cancer cases.
When taking Ashawagandha, like any medicine to be careful. Overuse and abuse of a herbal medication can be equally as dangerous and deadly as with any traditional medicine.

Things to remember:
If congested, do not take.
Do not use if pregnant, breast feeding, complications are unknown.
Talk to a doctor before using as adjunct treatment for AIDS, and cancer.

Menstural Disorders

2008-12-20T04:13:00.000-08:00

A menstrual disorder is a physical or emotional problem that interferes with the normal menstrual cycle, causing pain, with heavy or light bleeding. This is menorrhagia.

Menorrhagia is unusually heavy or long menstrual periods. Women with menorrhagia may soak through one or more sanitary pads or tampons an hour for several consecutive hours, or have periods that last longer than seven days.

Menorrhagia can be a cause for concern because heavy bleeding can lead to an iron deficiency, and ultimately result in anemia. It may sometimes be accompanied by other symptoms, which may indicate that an underlying condition is present like acne, excessive hair growth and rapid weight gain.

According to Ayurveda, Vata is the main dosha responsible for this menstrual disorder.This disorder can be temporary or permanent. In addition, many women experience some variation in menstrual cycle symptoms from one month to the next. The disorder can even interfere with a woman’s ability to get involved in routine activities like attending work and sleep. Certain menstrual disorders may also interfere with a woman’s ability to become pregnant.

Various causes for menorrhagia can be listed as under:
1) The use of certain forms of contraception - Intrauterine devices (IUDs) can cause menorrhagia in some women.

2) A disorder in which the tissue that lines the uterus becomes implanted outside the uterus( Endometriosis). The condition can lead to menorrhagia.3) Uterine disorders. Uterine fibroids can also cause menorrhagia.

4) Adenomyosis is a condition in which glands from the endometrium become implanted in the uterine muscle and may cause unusually heavy periods.

5) Thyroid disorders. Having a slow thyroid (hypothyroidism) can lead to menorrhagia

6) Medications. The use of certain medications (e.g., anticoagulants, anti-inflammatory medications) may cause hormonal imbalances, resulting in heavy bleedingAyurveda suggests certain dietary changes which can help in treating or at least reducing the effect of the disorder.

It suggests aiming for a healthy diet with plenty of fruit and vegetables. Cut down on salt to prevent bloating and sugar which may cause your blood glucose levels to swing, affecting your energy and appetite. It may help to cut back on fat which can encourage breast swelling, and caffeine and alcohol, as both can cause mood swings

.Ayurvedic herbal remedies for heavy periods or menorrhagia are safe, natural and effective.There are various ayurvedic remedies available for the treatment of the disorder are as under:

Powders Based RemediesPushyanuga Churna:Pushyanuga powder is the most popular herbal powder for menorrhagia.

Pradaranashaka Churna:Pradaranashaka powder is extremely useful in heavy periods as it has all of its ingredients plus some extra herbs to arrest bleeding.

Decoctions Based RemediesDarvyadi Kwatha:Darvyadi is beneficial as menstrual regulator. It is helpful in excessive menstrual bleeding as well.

Pradarantaka Kwatha:Pradarantaka consists of four ayurvedic herbs - all useful for arresting excess menstrual bleeding.

Asava Arishta Based RemediesAshokarishta:This is ayurvedic herbal remedy with autogenous fermented alcohol with Ashoka as the chief ingredient.

Lodhrasava:Combination of antiseptic, bitter and astringent herbs makes it a great remedy for menstrual bleeding disorders.

Patrangasava:Astringent and Uterine tonic herbs is very effective in painful menstruation and heavy periods.

Ushirasava:This is ayurvedic remedy for bleeding disorders resulting from Pitta aggravation and blood related disorders.

Clarified Butter Based RemediesAshoka Ghrita:Ashoka and other rejuvenative herbs based ayurvedic formulation is great for menstrual disorders and associated weakness.

Durvadi Ghrita:Durvadi ghrita is Durva based ayurvedic remedy for bleeding disorders.

Sukumara Ghrita:This polyherbal combination bring back the hormonal balance in women body.

Jelly Form of Remedies

Jeerakadi Avaleha:This is herbal jelly with Jeerak and Lodhra as the chief ingredients.

Vasaharitaki Avaleha:Vasa and Terminalia chebula based herbal jelly is used to arrest excessive bleeding

.Ayurvedic Mineral Remedies

Chandraprabha Vati:This is the formulation of Shilajita, Loha bhasma, guggul and several other herbs
.Pradarantaka Rasa:This is a formulation of herbs and ayurvedic minerals with Loha bhasma as main ingredient. It is good for all types of 'female related abnormal discharges'. Hemoglobin level is restored as it has ayurvedic calcined iron

Pradararipu Rasa:This is useful for Menorrhagia as it normalizes the bleeding and maintains the healthy condition of female reproductive organs.

Pradarari Loha:This is an extremely useful ayurvedic herbal remedy for heavy periods.

Doctor Panickers Kadaleerasayanam: This is a formulation of Kadhalipazham as main ingredients . It is good for all types of 'female related abnormal discharges', is very effective in painful menstruation and heavy periods. Prolonged use will result a well maintained body and soul.

VAJEEKARANA (APHRODISIACS)

2008-12-18T21:47:00.000-08:00

Susrutha has defined Vajeekarana tanthra as the branch which deals with management of defective semen and spermatogenesis along with sexual potencification. (su. su 1/8)According to Indu-gratification, sound health, progeny and instant pleasure are the merits of Vajeekarana. So Vajeekarana encompasses fertility, sexuality as well as positive health.

Hence Vajeekarana is a must for all those who are on the threshold of starting an active sexual life or those who wish to continue their sexual life in a better way. Vajeekarana= enhancing ones capacity to perform sex like a vaji (horse) [ca. ci-2]The treatment by which a man becomes as strong like a horse in the sexual act is called Vajeekarana. the word Vajee in sanskrit means Horse, and also seminal fluid including spermatozoa.

The purpose of Vajeekarana is three fold.To increase strength of the sexual organs in men.To improve quantity and quality of seminal fluid.To improve fertility of sperm for reproduction.In olden days a person without projeny was not respected in society and was hated for impotency. Therefore the Vajeekarana treatment was very important.To whom should Vajeekarana be given ?It should be administered in man who is well disciplined and with control of his mind and senses.

Vajeekarana should not be done to spread sin or transistory feeling in society. it is administered in male of 25 years old and in married man who requires the treatment.Woman was considered only as a receptacle of that act and hence was a passive partner. All the medicines at improving the act were aimed at the male. The woman was considered the ultimate Vajeekarana dravya. features of an ideal woman for copulation has been explained (A.S.U 50/67, jejjata). Interestingly, positive mentality and sex education are also among the required qualities. Men have many mis conceptions relatited to sex. The ability to perform is directly linked to “maleness”. They do not understand that sex is highly personalized activity.

This concsept was understood by Charaka. He states that sexual performance of men can be compared to different species of animal kingdom. Some have less sexual act but ejaculate more semen like elephants, some perform repeated number of sexual act and so on. (ca. ci)SUKRA DOSHA AND VAJEEKARANAVajeekarana may not be complete if sukra doshas are not discussed. This is because it is the sukra that is responsible for conception. (ca. ci. 30/153, ca. ci. 30/139-144)Sukra and rethas are two terms which one usually comes across in Vajeekarana. The deficiency of sukra leads to lack of virility, masculinity and potency. Rethas is the ejaculate which comes out during intense coital pleasure. (ca.ci)THERAPYAll the classics have dealt with Vajeekarana treatment.

This include as treating the mind as well as body. Charaka has made a separate segment, Vajeekarana pada consisting of 4 chapters. 50 Vajeekarana yogas are mentioned in these chapters. Atmagupta, Shatavari, Ashvagandha, Bala, Gokshura etc. The advent of Rasasasthra brought forth the usage of drugs like Shilajith, Yashada, Swarna in Vajeekarana Chikitsa. They are helpful in many problems like erectile disfunctions, lack of desire although not in all conditions.

Rithucharya (seasonal routines)

2008-11-30T09:17:00.000-08:00

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.

Worry in Mouth Ulcers

2008-11-18T21:53:00.000-08:00

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.

FOOD : What to Eat?

2008-11-16T09:48:00.000-08:00

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.

COUGH

2008-11-15T12:38:00.000-08:00

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