AYURVEDA approach to Genital Herpes

Herpes genitalis (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

Ayurveda approach to Genital Herpes

Dosha theory which helps in the diagnosis of the diseases

According to Ayurveda three doshas or three energetic forces control the activities of the body. These doshas are

1. Vata

2. Pitta

3. Kapha

VATA: The Vata dosha is the most important of the three doshas. It has been said in Ayurveda's classic books that “ pitta, Kapha and all other body tissues are considered lame without the assistance of VATA .” Vata dominates the lower part of the body, which is below the umbilicus. The movements of body fluid, metabolism, elimination of waste products, semen ejaculation, pushing the fetus out of the body, relaying stimulus to brain and response to organs and tissues, heartbeat, respiration, body movements, etc are assisted by VATA.

Vata dominated regions are intestines, lumbar region, ears, bones, and skin.  

Vata gets vitiated due to following reasons.

1. Controlling natural urges like urination, defecation, hunger, thirst, etc.

2. Late nights.

3. Irregular food habits.

4. Talking in a high pitch.

5. Over physical and mental exertion.

6. Consumption of spicy, dry, bitter foods.

7. Exposure to severe dry and cold climate.

The opposites of the above-mentioned reason normalize the vitiated vata.

PITTA: The pitta dosha assists the body fire or Agni, which plays a major role in the body’s metabolic activities. The locations where pitta dominates are digestive system, skin, eyes, brain, and blood. Pitta maintains body temperature. The secretions like digestive juices pigments like melanin (bhrajaka pitta), hemoglobin (ranjaka pitta) are all types of pitta.

Pitta is dominant in regions of Umbilicus, stomach, sweat, lymph, blood, eyes, and skin.

PITTA   gets vitiated due to following reasons.

1. Excess consumption of spicy, sour, salty foods.

2. Consuming alcohol in excess.

3. Overexposure to a hot sunny climate.

4. Short temperedness.

5. Using dried vegetables.

6. Indigestion of food.

The opposites of the above-mentioned reason normalize the vitiated pitta.

KAPHA: Kapha provides bulk to body, lubrications, moistness, fertility, stability, strength, and memory. It helps in the binding process wherever necessary. This is the heaviest of all doshas.

Kapha dominated regions are chest, neck, head, stomach, body fat, nose, and tongue

Kapha gets vitiated due to following reasons.

1. Sleeping in the daytime.

2. Consuming sweets, chilled food, in excess.

3. Consuming fish, sesame, sugarcane, milk, and milk products.

The opposites of the above-mentioned reason normalize the vitiated kapha.

When these doshas are in the balanced condition the body remains healthy. If these doshas get imbalanced the body succumbs to diseases. Doshas get imbalanced frequently due to change in climate, seasons, lifestyles, diet, etc. The treatment is to bring back the doshas to normalcy and expel the toxin or ama produced during the imbalanced condition.

Causes of Genital Herpes

Herpes is caused by a virus the herpes simplex virus (HSV), which belongs to the same family of viruses that cause chickenpox. There are two types of herpes simplex viruses

1. Herpes simplex type 1 (HSV-1) and mostly causes oral herpes

2. Herpes simplex type 2 (HSV-2). And mostly causes genital herpes

However, both type-1 and type-2 can occur in the genitals, oral area, or both.

Due to unhealthy lifestyles and diet the delicate balance between doshas gets disturbed. This disturbs the body fire or Agni.

(Agni is the body fire, which is responsible for the transformation of one substance to another. It breaks down the food substances, eliminates toxins and wastes, maintains body temperature, and resists the invasion of microbes by maintaining strong body immunity.

The body fire, which is assisted by balanced doshas, digests the food completely to form Pakwa Anna rasa (the liquid form of food which is completely digested by digestive enzymes), which is ready to get absorbed by body tissues. According to Ayurveda Pakwa Anna Rasa nourishes the body and its components to keep the body devoid of diseases. But when body fire is impaired there will be an incomplete digestion of food forming Apakwa Rasa (indigested food). The indigested food fails to nourish the body components leading to lowered body resistance.)

The disturbed Agni fails to digest the food and toxins get accumulated in the body due to improper metabolism. Accumulation of toxins reduces the body immunity and paves the way for invasion by microbes.

When a person who has low immunity comes in contact with the HSV virus, he/she gets the genital or oral herpes.

Unhealthy lifestyle

1. Overeating

2. Sleeping in the afternoons.

3. Over physical exertion.

4. Over mental exertion

5. Consuming food frequently even when not hungry.

6. Constant exposure to hot sunny climates

Unhealthy diet 

Excessive consumption of

1. Salty, sour, hot, spicy food.

2. Sour curds

3. Alcohol.

4. Cheese

5. Charred and overcooked food.

6. Sesame, Bengal gram, horse gram, sesame oil, rice flour, garlic, fish.

1. Curds, salt, mushrooms, bamboo shoots, sour fruits, meat, prawn, pork, should not be consumed with milk. The above-mentioned foods should not be consumed by mixing one item with another.

2. Sprouts, honey, and milk should not be consumed with meat and fish.

3. Fish  & milk: fish &sugarcane juice; jaggery & pork; honey & pork; milk & mango; banana & milk; are opposite foods.

The Transmission Of Genital Herpes

A person can get genital herpes in the following conditions

1. If he is sexually active and when he performs sex (oral or genital) with infected partners.

2. A person who has oral herpes transmits herpes to genital organs of a partner during oral sex and a person who has genital herpes transmits this to his partner during coitus when they have a genital contact.

3. The disease gets transmitted when the mucous membrane comes in contact with the infected area.

The disease gets transmitted mostly during the active phase. But it may spread even during asymptomatic  (when a person is free of symptoms for a particular duration) phase. The virus needs a fluid media for its transportation. The body fluids like saliva, semen, vaginal tract secretions, etc. Mucous membranes in the mouth, vagina, urethra, or open wounds facilitate the virus invasion due to their moistness.

In Genital herpes, there is an imbalance of all three doshas  (VATA, PITTA, KAPHA), which in turn vitiate lasika (lymph), blood (rakta), muscle (mamsa) and skin (twacha).

The imbalanced doshas vitiate skin and the immunity of skin cells is lowered. The virus attacks these weak cells and starts exhibiting symptoms on the affected area.

Local symptoms

1. Pricking sensation

2. Edema

3. Pain

4. Feeling of constriction

5. A sensation of ant creeping

6. Many small eruptions gathering in a small area.

7. These eruptions or blisters burst soon with exudates.

8. These blisters will have different colors according to the involvement of doshas.  

(Blackish red or blue in vata, red, yellow, copper-colored in pitta, shades of white in kapha).

The weakened body immune system tries to resist the virus invasion but fails to achieve the goal. In this futile attempt the following systemic symptoms are exhibited.

Systemic symptoms

1. Fever

2. Weakness

3. Indigestion

4. Impaired bowels

5. Increased frequency of urination.

6. Body pain.

7. Increased thirst.

Imbalanced vata causes symptoms like pain, swelling, and body ache

The imbalanced pitta and vitiated blood and skin cause

1. Blisters,

2. Change the color of skin,

3. Cause burning sensation, and fever.

The imbalanced kapha and vitiated lymph cause itching, tingling sensation.

After the first attack, the virus moves from the skin through the nerve paths to base of the nerve and becomes inactive. Now herpes infected person will be devoid of all symptoms. But the imbalance of doshas still persists.

Reactivation of Virus to cause outbreaks

At unpredictable times, the virus becomes active. It multiplies and resurfaces on the skin by traveling through the nerve path and exhibits the symptoms locally. The severity of symptoms of the outbreak depends on the strength of body immunity.

The pelvis or shroni, nerves, and skin are dominated by vata. When vata gets vitiated due to precipitating factors, it reactivates the virus dormant in the base of the nerve end and the virus travels through nerve paths to reach the skin surface.

Precipitating Factors

As we know the outbreaks have few precipitating factors like

1. Excessive exposure to the sun.

2. Illness,

3. Poor diet,

4. Emotional stress

5. Physical stress,

6. Friction,

7. Steroids

8. Menstruation.

9. Emotional stress.

10. Genital trauma and intercourse.

11. Repeated infections such as a cold or pneumonia.

These factors increase vata and increased vata activates the virus, which is dormant.

Low Immunity The systemically imbalanced doshas interfere with body metabolism by vitiating the body fire (agni). This leads to indigestion and malassimilation of nutrients, which in turn causes poor immunity. Due to decreased immunity, the body fails to offer resistance to outbreaks.

Ayurveda Tips to avoid outbreaks

Avoid

1. Spicy, sour, fried, and junk food, which aggravates vata.

2. Precipitating factors.

3. Sleeping in the afternoon.

4. Meat products over fried or deep-fried in oil or fat.

5. Charred and overcooked food.

6. Consuming opposite food like fish and milk etc

7. Physical exertion after a meal

8. Taking bath immediately after exercise or heavy outdoor work.

Include honey, pomegranate, and fruits of Emblica Officinalis, legumes, dates, and raisins in your diet.

Practice Yoga and Meditation to control emotional disturbances

Ayurveda References

1. Sushruta Samhita

2. Charaka Samhita

3. Madhava nidana

4. Ashtanga Sangraha

5. Yoga Ratnakara

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AYURVEDIC HOME REMEDIES - Inner And Outer Health Balance

Street vendor selling herbal remedies in Patzcuaro, Michoacan
(Photo credit: Wikipedia)

Ayurveda is a holistic approach to health that has been around for centuries and is now gaining in popularity after having been largely forgotten for hundreds of years.  Ayurveda promotes a healthy lifestyle where you keep your body in balance and if illness does occur you don't just treat the symptoms, which is what most Western forms of medicine do, instead you attack the underlying cause of the problem so you can have a permanent fix to the problem.  There are ayurvedic home remedies for many types of common illnesses.  

Ayurvedic promotes a balance between the three energies that promote inner and outer health.  These energies are called doshas and everyone has their own unique balance of doshas.  Finding out your natural balance is part of determining the best Ayurvedic remedy for you and your situation. 

There are herbal Ayurvedic remedies for many diseases of the nervous system, lymphatic system respiratory system, digestive and circulatory system.  As you can see, there is a lot of different common medical issues that may be able to be resolved using this ancient knowledge. 

Make sure, though, that before you start any type of alternative medical regime you talk to your doctor first. Don't make the mistake of thinking that just because these are natural herbs that they are completely safe.  There can still be negative side effects when you combine some herbal remedies with over the counter or prescription drugs you may already be taking. 

It's also important that you learn what you are doing and what part of the plant you need to use such as the roots, the leaves, or the stems.  You also need to know exact quantities to use as well as the exact way to prepare the herb.  If you choose to do it on your own, be willing to spend some time learning more about the various herbs and how best to utilize their power.  This isn't something you should try to do without carefully learning how to do it properly. 

It's also important to note that when you are using natural herbal remedies that they will generally take longer to work than other forms of medicine. This is actually a good thing since unlike many other drugs which only mask the symptoms, think of a cough drop, the natural remedies will actually help you fix the underlying cause.  Even though it may take longer the result should be more permanent than when you just take a drug to mask the symptoms so you can feel better. 

Before you go out and buy a lot of herbs to make your own ayurvedic home remedies you should consult with an Ayurvedic practitioner.  There is a definite method to this practice and you don't want to start taking a lot of herbs if you don't know what the overall effect will be on your body.  Take some time and find an expert in your area who can show you just what you need to do to get the maximum benefit from this form of medicine.

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TURMERIC - Go for Gold

Black Turmeric (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

Ayurveda the ancient medical science is based on the principle of preventing diseases. It directs us to resist the diseases through our food habits and lifestyles. The same principle was stressed by Hippocrates also “Let your food be your medicine” was his advice to mankind 

Let’s know more about a very well known spice in Ayurveda yet not completely understood by the common man. Over the last several years, there has been increasing interest in turmeric and its medicinal properties. But Ayurveda has immensely praised the medicinal qualities of turmeric which finds its place in almost all ayurvedic preparations related to liver and skin disorders. 

This herb has occupied the shelves of every Indian kitchen since 6000 years and is considered as the king of the kitchen. It is used daily in cooking. Apart from cooking it is also used as a beauty aid and as a dye. 

Turmeric (Curcuma Longa) belongs to Zingiberaceae Family and is a perennial plant that grows 3 to 5 feet high in the tropical regions. In India, it is grown all over but especially in Bengal, Bombay and in Tamilnadu.

Ayurveda appreciates the medicinal qualities and color of turmeric. This is evident through the various names of turmeric specified in ancient texts of Ayurveda. Some of these are 

• Haridra – enhancer of body complexion.

• Kanchani  - looks like gold.

• Nisha  - imparts  beauty by enhancing complexion which is as beautiful as  full moon night

• Gowri  - yellow in color

• Krimighni  - works as an Antibacterial and antihelminthic.

• Yoshit Priya - used in Gynecological disorders.

In Hindi turmeric is known as haldi.

The rhizomes or roots of this plant are used as medicine and for other purposes. The rhizomes are boiled, dried and then powdered. This powder is used for all purposes.

The active chemical component of turmeric is curcumin.  Curcumin is a strong antioxidant and reduces inflammation by reducing histamine levels. Curcumin protects the liver, reduces cholesterol, and prevents internal blood clotting thus preventing heart attacks and liver tissue damages.

Turmeric is very safe. But special precautions should be taken in persons who have gallstones, hyperacidity, stomach ulcers and obstructive jaundice. 

Ayurveda explains the qualities of turmeric as light and dry. It has a pungent and bitter taste. It is widely used in skin, respiratory and liver disorders. It purifies blood and enhances the complexion.

Medicinal properties of turmeric – Go for Gold!

Effects of Turmeric----

On Liver

Ayurveda has recommended this golden herb to purify blood and prevent it from clotting. It is extensively used to protect the liver from toxins and microbial. Turmeric increases the secretion of bile, promotes a free flow of bile. This herb can be used to overcome the toxic effects of alcohol on the liver. This reduces cholesterol and protects the heart.

Use of a ½ teaspoon of turmeric with warm water rejuvenates the liver and expels toxins out of it.

On respiratory system

Turmeric is very effective in bronchitis, productive cough and asthma.  

One spoon of turmeric boiled in milk should be consumed with a spoon of pure ghee in conditions like bronchitis, asthma and productive cough. This gives very good relief and expectorates excessively produced mucous in the lungs.

On aging

The antioxidant properties of turmeric give us young looks and make us feel young. It reduces inflammation in joints, protects the heart, reduces cholesterol and keeps us very healthy.

On Diabetes

It is widely used in ayurvedic preparations for diabetes. It lowers the blood sugar and increases glucose metabolism.

On Uterus

It initiates regular menstrual cycle and reduces menstrual cramps.

On skin

Blood nourishes the skin and it is a known fact that pure blood always keeps the skin glowing and radiant. Turmeric purifies the blood, nourishes skin and gives it a healthy natural glow and radiance.

A traditional face pack of India consists of gram flour, pure turmeric powder, milk and honey. This reduces inflammation of the skin, smoothens it and prevents many skin ailments. 

On Stomach and Intestines

Turmeric enhances digestion, normalizes metabolism and expels intestinal parasites

On Wounds

Turmeric accelerates the healing process and readily reduces pain and inflammation. Thick Paste of turmeric applied on wounds acts as an excellent antibiotic and anti-inflammatory.

On Yogis

Turmeric purifies and cleans the body. It is a tailor-made herb for yogis. It increases the flexibility of muscles, reduces inflammation in muscles and joints and helps to perform yoga with confidence and delight.

Is it not a wonderful treasure which nature has stored for us in this golden herb? Now let us start a gold rush.

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AYURVEDA

മലയാളം: കാന്താരിമുളക് ചെടിയുടെ പൂവ്
(Photo credit: Wikipedia)

Ayurveda is an ancient Sanskrit word meaning science of life, and actually is a branch of traditional Indian medicine. Using Ayurveda means actually changing not only the way you eat but also the way that you see yourself and your body. In Ayurveda, you don't objectivize your body as a "thing", but realize your body as a system of energy that is constantly changing. Realizing that 98% of the atoms in your body are replaced completely within less than one year helps you to understand that nothing about your body is static, and if you wish it to change, then change is actually easy. What needs to be done is to retrain the body and its cells to think differently, and to stop responding randomly to external stimuli. This is putting an end to what is called self-referral. 

The first step is very simple; when you are hungry then eat, but when you are not don't eat. Although this seems over simplistic, in this practice is the key to conquering most cases of obesity. Americans eat impulsively more so than any other culture in the world, and that means we eat often when we are not hungry. We tend to eat because we see the food we like, or when we sit down to watch a movie, or perhaps when we are sad or feeling depressed. We have learned to use food as a pacifier, a stimulant, and a hobby. The key is unlearning this behavior. 

Increasing your awareness of actual hunger, including the time you are actually eating, will help you limit your diet. You should eat only when you feel your tank on empty so to speak. Eat to satisfaction, the point where the sensation of hunger has left, not to the point where you are uncomfortable and cannot eat another bite. Start a log, preferably in a small pocket notepad that you can carry with you to work and use at home, and record each time you feel hungry and when you ate just to satisfaction. Within two weeks time, your body will begin to significantly be retrained to eat only when hungry, and only for nourishment. Once this two week time period has passed, begin to set definite times when you eat your meals: a set time for breakfast, lunch and dinner every day, without fail. When doing this, make lunch your largest meal, with very small breakfasts and dinners. 

The next step would be to eat right for your body type. In Ayurveda, there are three basic body types: Vata, Pitta, and Kapha. The Vata body is one that belongs to a person that is very active and quick, has a very thin build, gets cold easily, tends to speak very quickly and be very talkative, usually has dry skin, and is a very light sleeper. Pitta characteristics include being very orderly, forceful, very intolerant of hot weather, easy to perspire, having reddish, sandy, or blond hair, stubborn, intolerant of spicy foods, very self-critical and critical of others, determined, and impatient. The Kapha body is a person that naturally moves slow, gains weight easily and loses it slowly if at all, tends to be thick-built, is ironically good at skipping meals without discomfort, has a tendency to develop phlegm, needs a full eight hours of sleep to feel rested, sleeps very deeply, tends to have dark thick hair, tends to be very affectionate and understanding, usually walks slowly, and generally enjoys a steady level of energy. Each type of person has different dietary needs. Some people, of course, share several of these factors equally and therefore have combination bodies. 

Generally, one who has a Kapha body type has the hardest time with losing weight so we will concentrate on foods that reduce the Kapha influence. If you consume milk, switch to low-fat milk instead of whole milk, and boiling the milk before drinking it makes it easier to digest. It is best to drink the milk warm because cold milk increases your Kapha. If you decide you cannot tolerate warm milk, you should give up milk altogether. Eat plenty of foods that are spicy or bitter, yet avoid salt. Avoid red meat if you eat meat, and eat white meat chicken or turkey, or opt for fish. Beans are also an excellent source of protein when avoiding or cutting back on meat consumption. Eat plenty of light fruits, such as pears, apples, cranberries, and pomegranates.

Sweeten your foods when necessary with honey instead of sugar, as honey reduces Kapha very well. When choosing grains, barley, corn, buckwheat, rye, and millet are very light grains that are good for your consumption. All vegetables are good to eat, however, vegetables that are especially beneficial to reduce Kapha include eggplant, radishes, beets, all green leafy vegetables, asparagus, broccoli, potatoes, cabbage, carrots, pumpkin, and celery. In Ayurveda, food is preferably prepared by cooking, since it makes for easier digestion than eating raw foods, however, an occasional salad is not harmful. Avoid caffeine and alcohol, fried foods, packaged foods, soft drinks, and deep-fried foods.

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Natural Cure by AYURVEDA

Photo: Pixabay

Ayurveda is perhaps the oldest system of health care in the world and originates from the Indian subcontinent. 

Ayurveda is based on scientific principles of diagnosis and treatment. It differs from conventional medicine in the basic principles of investigation and assigning causes to processes rather than specific areas of physiology.

Ayurveda has been a vogue since 5000 years ago. Our Vedas have been repeated references to the efficacy of Ayurveda as a science of healthy living. The western world is now realizing the value of Ayurveda in treating Chronic diseases like Arthritis, Paralysis, Stroke, Neurological disorders etc. Even WHO has given a high rating for Ayurveda system. 

It differs from conventional medicine in the basic principles of investigation and assigning causes to processes rather than specific areas of physiology. The increasing awareness of herbal medicines in Western markets such as USA, UK, Canada and Japan and the technological advancements in biotech industry were two major reasons which compelled us to offer a platform like this.

Here are some Important Herbs and their Uses: 

Ashwagandha ( Withania Somnifera), ( Winter Cherry): Traditionally, Ashwagandha has been used in many ways--as a sedative, a diuretic, a rejuvenating tonic, an anti-inflammatory agent, and as an "adaptogen" (endurance enhancer). Many Western herbalists refer to this herb as "Ayurvedic ginseng" because of its reputation for increasing energy, strength, and stamina, and for its ability to relieve stress. It is especially beneficial in stress related disorders such as arthritis, hypertension, diabetes, general debility, etc. It has also shown impressive results when used as stimulants for the immune system. 

 (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

Amla ( Emblica officinalis), ( Indian Goosebery): Amla contains the highest amount of Vitamin C (Ascorbic acid), Phyllembin, Phyllemblic acid, Gallic acid, Ellagic acid in natural form and Cytokin like substance identified as Zeatin, Zriboside, Z nucleotide, Tannins 30%. It is one of the strongest rejuvenatives in Indian pharmacopeia. It contains 30 times the amount of Vitamin C found in oranges. Its antibacterial, carminative, hypoglycemic, stomachic, Hypotensive and astringent action prevents infection, helps in healing of ulcers, treatment of jaundice, dyspepsia and cough and controls hyperacidity. Alma is a good Cardio Tonic and its mild stimulant action on heart helps to control blood pressure. The use of Indian Gooseberry enhances the antidiabetic action of Karela. Phyllanthus Emblica is a very good hair tonic.  

Brahmi (Bacopa Monniera): Aside from increasing intellectual and cognitive function, Brahmi induces a sense of calm and peace in its users. It is unique in its ability to invigorate mental processes whilst reducing the effects of stress and nervous anxiety. This makes Brahmi extremely applicable in highly stressful work or study environments where clarity of thought is as important as being able to work under pressure. Many people have the intelligence to perform to strict standards but lack the composure and self-confidence to reach them. Additionally, Brahmi helps soothe the restlessness and distraction that nervousness causes. Brahmi is ideal for students and workers faced with this problem. 

Shallaki ( Boswellia Serrata): Today its major use is as an anti-inflammatory agent for the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis, juvenile rheumatoid arthritis, low back pain, myositis, fibrositis, and osteoarthritis. Experimental and clinical usage of boswella indicates it has none of the side effects on blood pressure, heart rate of the gastric irritation and ulcers associated with many anti-inflammatory and antiarthritic drugs. It is now an approved herbal medicine in India for use against osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, soft tissue rheumatism, low back pain, myositis and fibrositis. In the United States, physicians are giving boswella high marks for effectiveness. Dr. E. W. McDonagh, a Kansas City physician, has reported success among some 350 patients suffering from a variety of advanced muscular and skeletal conditions for which other treatments had failed to help.  

(Photo credit: Wikipedia)

Karela ( Bitter Gourd), ( Bitter Melon), ( Momordica charantia): Bitter Melon, also known as Karela, Momordica Charantia or Bitter Gourd is a herb that helps regulate blood sugar levels and keeps body functions operating normally. It contains Gurmarin, a polypeptide considered to be similar to bovine insulin, which has been shown in experimental studies to achieve a positive sugar regulating effect by suppressing the neural response to sweet taste stimuli. Karela's principle constituents are lectins, charantin and momordicine. The fruits have long been used in India as a folk remedy for diabetes mellitus. Lectins from the bitter gourd have shown significant antilipolytic and lipogenic activities. 

Shilajit (Asphaltum): This is Shilajit, one of Ayurveda's most potent and unique rejuvenatives. The ancient medical literature attributes many health benefits to Shilajit known as "conqueror of mountains and destroyer of weakness." It has been said that there is hardly any curable disease which cannot be assisted with the aid of Shilajit. Shilajit has been used historically for general physical strengthening, anti-aging, blood sugar stabilization, libido, injury healing, urinary tract rejuvenation, enhanced brain functioning potency, bone healing, kidney rejuvenation, immune system Strengthening, arthritis, hypertension, obesity and much other application for numerous conditions.  

Garlic ( Lasuna), ( Allium sativum): The platelet and hypolipidemic activities of Lasuna ensures smooth coronary function. Garlic is regarded as one of the most effective remedies to lower blood pressure. The pressure and tension are reduced because it has the power to ease the spasm of the small arteries. It also slows the pulse and modifies the heart rhythm, besides relieving the symptoms of dizziness, shortness of breath and the formation of gas within the digestive track. It has an antiseptic effect and is an excellent remedy for infectious diseases and inflammations of the stomach and intestine. Human population studies show that eating garlic regularly reduces the risk of esophageal, stomach, and colon cancer. This is partly due to garlic's ability to reduce the formation of carcinogenic compounds. 

Triphala: Triphala, a cornerstone of Ayurvedic medicine, is a composite herbal preparation containing equal proportions of the fruits of three myrobalans, Emblica Officinalis, Terminalia chebula and Terminalia bellirica. When consumed for a long period, it helps reduce excess weight. It promotes good colon health and acts as a laxative without causing cramps or irritation. It gently stimulates the intestinal walls and restores tone to the colon, thus helping in the elimination process, providing a colon cleansing effect. When consumed for a long period, it helps reduce excess weight. It promotes good colon health and acts as a laxative without causing cramps or irritation. It gently stimulates the intestinal walls and restores tone to the colon, thus helping in the elimination process, providing a colon cleansing effect.  

Guggulu: ( Bedellium), ( COMMIPHORA MUKUL): Studies show that a 14-27% of LDL cholesterol and 22-30% of triglycerides levels were reduced when guggul was given to men and women with high cholesterol for 12 weeks with no change in diet or exercise. Research with laboratory animals suggests guggul may help enhance thyroid function. Since the thyroid gland produces hormones that are needed to regulate metabolism, it can help in weight loss. Studies show guggul may change thyroid hormone metabolism, increase levels of circulating T3, or triiodothyronine, a thyroxine metabolite known to raise overall metabolism, which in turn increases fat burning. Since guggul supports atherosclerosis (hardening of the arteries), which may impede blood flow to and from the penis, guggul may possibly be the treatment for impotence many men are looking for. 

Tulsi ( Holy Basil), ( Tulasi): Tulsi has antioxidant properties, and helps boost the body's ability to fight off damaging free radicals, which have been linked to disease and aging. It is an adaptogen that helps the body fight the effects of ongoing stress and also balances the mind, nerves and emotions. Tulsi maintains the health of the throat chest and lungs. In fact, it helps protect the entire respiratory tract. It is an anti-inflammatory. A herb that promotes optimum respiratory support. Tulasi has antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, expectorant properties and is useful in respiratory tract infections. It helps during respiratory stress.  

Neem (AZADIRACHTA INDICA): Neem effectively kills the bacteria that cause Acne and studies prove that Neem will reduce inflammation, even the inflammation produced by Acne. In the case of eczema, clinical studies demonstrate that even the application of weaker Neem leaf extracts effectively cured acute conditions of eczema, what to speak of the fresh cold pressed oil with its high concentration of active ingredients. Modern clinical studies have identified a number of compounds in the Neem tree that effectively regulate immune system functions. Whether drinking a simple cup of tea out of the leaves or taking extracts of the Neem leaf, Neem significantly and consistently reduced insulin requirements for nonketotic, insulin fast, and insulin sensitive forms of Diabetes. The pain, inflammation, and swelling of the joints in arthritis can be greatly reduced by different compounds in Neem 

Arjuna (TERMINALIA ARJUNA): Arjun improves cardiac muscle function and pumping action of the heart. Scientific studies have shown Arjun to be very effective when used regularly over a period of time for the treatment of angina, coronary artery disease, heart failure, edema, and possibly hypercholesterolemia. Studies have also shown Arjun to have positive effects in the treatment of gonorrhea. Externally, this herb has been used to treat acne, blemishes, wounds, dysentery, and diarrhea.

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Inducting RASAYANA THERAPY in Our Daily Routine

Introduction:   

Ayurveda, the oldest health science has eight branches. Rasayana (rejuvenation) is one of them. Rasa has different meanings like ”juice”, "taste “, “essence," "flavor”, or “emotion", but is not limited to any of these in itself. In the therapeutic process, Rasa is concerned with the conservation, transformation, and revitalization of energy. Rasa nourishes our body, boosts immunity and helps to keep the body and mind in best of health.

The Aim Of Rasayana :

The Rasayana therapy enhances the qualities of rasa, enriches it with nutrients. With such enriched excellent Rasa, one attains longevity, memory, intelligence, freedom from disorder, youthfulness, an excellence of luster, complexion & voice, optimum development of physique and sense organs, mastery over phonetics, respectability and brilliance.

Types of Rasayana:  

1. Types of rasayana preparations which can be consumed according to the needs.

A. Kamya Rasayanas : Kamya rasayanas are promoters of normal health. These boost body energy levels, immunity and general health.

• Pranakamya –  Promoter  of vitality and longevity

• Medhakamya – Promoter of intelligence.

• Srikamya -   – Promoter of complexion.

B. Naimittika Rasayana-: Naimittika rasayanas help to fight a specific disease.

2. Types of Rasayanas on the basis of place of Therapy

A. Kuti  Praveshika Rasayana – Indoor rasayanaTherapy. 

B. Vatatapika Rasayana – Out door rasayana  Therapy.

3. Types of Rasayanas On the basis diet and life styles.

A. Aushdha  Rasayana – Drug based Rasayana.

B. Ahara Rasayana – Dietary Rasayana.

C. Achara Rasayana – Life style Rasayana.

Preparation for Rasayana therapy :

It is very essential for a person who wishes to undergo rasayana therapy to undergo samshodhana (detoxification) as a preparatory procedure. The samshodhana process detoxifies both body and mind. A detoxified body and mind is a like a clean cloth which readily absorbs the color in which it has been dipped, unlike a soiled cloth which looks soiled even after coloring with best colors.

But when a person is not eligible for samshodhana or is not able to get samshodhana then he can also consume Rasayana preparations which still boost the qualities of rasa in his body.

Effect of rasayana therapy:

Rasayana therapy  enriches the nutritional quality of Rasa, enhances digestion and metabolism by normalizing agni or body fire, and promoting the competence of  channels 

Benefits of rasayana: The main purpose of Rasayana   therapy is to retard the aging process and to delay the degenerative process in the body

• It enhances the intelligence, memory, body strength, luster of the skin, and modulation of voice

• It nourishes the blood, lymph, muscles, tissues, semen, and thus prevents Chronic degenerative disorders like Arthritis.

• Improves metabolic process and quality of body tissues and eradicates diseases of old age.

• Helps to attain optimal physical strength and sharpness of sense organs.

• Rasayana has marked action on reproductive organs and also nourishes shukra dhatu (semen)

• Rasayana nourishes the whole body and improves the Immune system and hence the natural resistance to infection will be more.

                                     

By following Achara Rasayana one can be more Satwik and surge ahead in the spiritual field by his pure daily routines like speaking truth, not getting angry, by having control over his sense organs and calmness,.

Natural foods which act as Rasayanas 

Haritaki: (Embelica officinalis)

                    

It is called as Haritaki because it cures all the diseases. It has been alternatively named as  Abhaya with appreciation on its activities since it bestows permanent long life to those who use it always. It is also known as Vijaya since it is a conqueror of all the diseases. 

A fresh, round and heavy fruits of haritaki are always best. It should sink in water and also devoid of any diseases. Such fruits are rich in taste and potency. 

The fruit should be split into two or three pieces and seed is removed. Such fruit pieces are cooked with four parts of water till they soften. Then they should be removed and allowed to cool. One part of ghee and one part of honey is added to this and kept aside for three days. It should be consumed later taking care of digestion power. After this Rasayana is digested shstika Sahli rice with cow’s milk is consumed. By using this Rasayana one will be free from wrinkles, baldness and premature greying of hair. This gives very good memory power, eyesight and a long healthy life... 

Ghee ( Clarified butter):

is the best-known Rasayana which is a very good rejuvenator and Longevity promoter,.   It also improves digestion, has soothing effects on the nervous system, Improves the glow of skin, enhances memory power, helps to retain the grasped matters and increases ojus. Ghee has a very good rate of absorption and it is a very good medium for transporting the nutrients of the food to the tissue So make sure that you use a spoon of to your daily food which is very easily and readily available to one and all. (This is not applicable to people who have high blood cholesterol).

Lemons:

These are the very rich source of Vitamin C and are known for there unique action like improving the resistance to cold, controlling the bleeding of gums, healing wounds and the formation of scar tissue. The lemon acts as a purifier and nourishing agent. 

Squeeze half lime in a glass of luke warm water and add two tea spoons of honey to it. This helps to reduce weight when consumed in empty stomach at early hours of the day.

Ginger:

Ginger improves digestion, removes ama (body toxin which causes diseases). Hence it is accepted worldwide as medicine. Always use dry ground ginger which is more concentrated in its effects and flavor. 

Sprinkle little dry ginger powder on a spoon of lemon juice and add a little salt. This should be consumed forty-five minutes before meals to have a very good appetite and digestion.

Cumin Seeds: 

Cumin seeds help in digestion, digests and expel ama and balances doshas. To expel body toxins start the day with drinking Luke warm water with powdered cumin and ginger. 

Green Gram :

Green gram is very light to digest and is the best for people who have digestion problems. They are among the best legumes for there supreme digestibility and health giving qualities. Those who prefer light food can opt for this food.

 Dates and figs: 

These are known as an excellent source of energy. They also help to build the body tissues and improve the hemoglobin percentage. Hence eat two to three dates or figs a day.

Almonds: 

These are nourishing and life – supporting. Eat five to six Almonds a day to build energy and strength. It is proved that Almonds helps in reducing blood Cholesterol levels.

Lassi :

It is a beverage prepared by mixing two part of water and one part of yogurt. It can be made a sweet beverage by adding little sugar or honey and little ground cardamom. For people who do not like the sweet taste, it can be made as a delicious salt and sour beverage by adding roasted cumin seeds and a little salt. It is an excellent nutritive, digestive beverage and can be used during meals or taken as a dessert after a meal.

Seasonal Fruits: 

Always use the juicy fresh fruits which are available in the season. They are of high nutritive value and are body purifiers also.

Along with all these food and medicinal Rasyana, one should follow Achara Rasayana to have very good effects of rasayana.

Refs:.  Charaka  su sthana. Shu. Su .Sthana.  Astanga sangraha uttar stahna

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Therapeutic uses of HONEY in AYURVEDA

Photo  by bob in swamp 

The FAO Codex Alimentarius Commission defines honey as ‘the natural sweet substance produced by honeybees from the nectar of flowers or from secretions coming from living organisms feeding on plants, that bees gather, transform and combine with specific ingredients, store and leave to ripen in the combs of the hive.’

In Ayurveda honey is called as "Madhu". Its qualities are explained as follows.

“Vaatalam guru sheetam cha raktapittakaphapaham |
Sandhatru cchedanam ruksham kashayam madhuram madhu ||”

 “It has sweetness (madhura rasa) with added astringent as end taste (Kashaya anu rasa). It is heavy (guru guna), dry (ruksha) and cold (sheeta). Its effect on doshas is as follows It aggravates vata, scrapes kapha and normalizes pitta and rakta. It promotes the healing process.”


The contents of Honey are
1. Sugars like fructose, glucose, sucrose, maltose, lactose, and other disaccharides and trisaccharides.
2. Proteins, fats, vitamins, minerals, enzymes, and amino acids,
3. Volatile aromatic substances.
4. Ashes and water etc.


Various ingredients of honey have helped it to become not only a sweet liquid but also a natural product with high nutritional and medicinal value.


The medicinal quality, taste, texture, color, aroma of honey differs according to the geographical area and the species of plants from which it has been collected.

Types of Honey:

Eight types of honey are described in Ayurveda depending on the type of bee which collects it. They are Pouttika, Bhramara. Kshoudra, Makshika, Chatra, Arghya, Oudalaka, Dala.

Pouttika - This honey is collected by very large bees from the nectar of poisonous flowers. It increases vata, causes gout and burning sensation in the chest. It is also sedative and reduces fat.


Bhramara - This honey is collected by large bees and Sticky in nature.

Kshoudra -  (Honey collected by medium-sized honey bees ) light and cold in nature. Dissolves Kapha.

Makshika - (Honey collected by small honey bees) very light and dry nature. Useful in VataKapha diseases and kapha diseases

Chatra - Heavy and cold in nature useful in gout, Leucoderma (Shwitra),

Arghya -  Good for eyes but causes arthritis.

Oudalaka -  Useful in skin diseases, and helps in the modulation of voice.

Dala - Dry and reduces vomiting.

Amongst all the above "Makshika" is considered as the best type with immense medicinal properties.

Therapeutic uses of Honey:

1. As it contains sugars which are quickly absorbed by our digestive system and converted into energy, this can be used as an instant energizer.
2. As it is hygroscopic it speeds up healing, a growth of healing tissue and dries it up.
3. Honey acts as a sedative and is very useful in bed wetting disorders.
4. Honey is a very good antioxidant which restores the damaged skin and gives soft, young looks.
5. Honey has antibacterial properties due to its acidic nature and enzymatically produced hydrogen peroxide.
6. Constant use of honey strengthens the white blood corpuscles to fight bacteria and viral diseases.

In Ashtanga Hridaya the great classic of Ayurveda, the therapeutic uses of honey are explained as follows.

“Chakshushayam Chedi  tritshleshmavishahidmaasrapittanut |
Mehakushtakrimicchardishwaasakaasaatisaarajit ||
Vranashodhana sandhaanaropanam vaatalam madhu ||”

• Honey is very good for eyes and eyesight.
• It quenches thirst.
• Dissolves kapha.
• Reduces effects of a poison.
• Stops hiccups.
• It is very useful in urinary tract disorders, worm infestations, bronchial asthma, cough, diarrhea, and nausea -vomiting.
• Cleanse the wounds.
• It heals wounds.
• Helps in quick healing of deep wounds.
• Initiates growth of healthy granulation tissue.
• Honey which is newly collected from beehive increases body weight and is a mild laxative.
• Honey which is stored and is old helps in the metabolism of fat and scrapes Kapha.

Ayurveda explains another special quality of honey. Honey is called as “Yogavahi”. The substance which has a quality of penetrating the deepest tissue is called as Yogavahi.  When honey is used with other herbal preparations it enhances the medicinal qualities of those preparations and also helps them to reach the deeper tissues.

Precautions to be taken before using honey:

• Honey should not be mixed with hot foods.

• Honey should not be heated.

• Honey should not be consumed when you are working in a hot environment where you are exposed to more heat.

• Honey should never be mixed with rainwater, hot and spicy foods, and Fermented beverages like whiskey, rum, brandy etc, Ghee and mustard.

• Honey includes nectar of various flowers of which some may be poisonous. Poison has hot or Ushna qualities. When honey is mixed with hot and spicy foods the poisonous properties get enhanced and cause an imbalance of doshas.

Few Home remedies with Honey

• Mix 2 teaspoon of honey with carrot juice and consume regularly. This helps to improve eyesight and is very helpful for those who sit before computer for long hours.

• In cold, cough and congested chest mix 2 teaspoons of honey with equal quantity of ginger juice and should be consumed frequently.

• A mixture of black pepper powder, honey and ginger juice in equal quantities, when consumed thrice daily help to relieve the symptoms of asthma.

• Regular use of one teaspoon of garlic juice mixed with two teaspoons of honey help to control blood pressure.

• One glass of warm water taken with two teaspoons of honey and 1 teaspoon of lemon juice in the early morning reduces fat and purifies the blood.

Consuming one spoon of honey daily help us to lead a healthy long life.

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ASHAWAGANDHA - the Indian Ginseng

This herb -Withania somnifera was photographed at Pune. Common name- Ashwagandha. (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

Ashwagandha - also known as Indian Winter Cherry has the Botanical name Withania Somnifera  -It is a shrub belonging to Solanace family. It is grown in the western India, Gujarat, MP, Punjab and in the Himalayas.

Ashwagandha gets its name because its roots have the odor of horse. (Ashwa = horse, gandha = odor). It is called by another name Varaha karni because its leaves resemble pig’s ear. 

Ashwagandha has light (laghu) and sticky (snigdha) properties, bitter and sweet taste. On digestion the sweet taste dominates. The main part used is the root of this herb.

Medicinal properties of Ashwagandha

The various medicinal properties of ashwagandha are attributed to compounds known as withanolides which are present in it.

Ashwagandha is used as an adaptogen (as it enhances endurance), rejuvenating tonic and sedative. Hence many herbalists refer this herb as Indian ginseng.

Effects on mind: As it balances vata and kapha, it improves memory, counteracts the effects of stress and calms the mind. It has an ability to relieve stress. It acts as a sedative. Stressed patients with insomnia are benefited by this herb. 

This herb can be used in Alzheimer’s disease, memory loss, and insomnia. 

Effects on general health: It acts as balya and strengthens the body. Generally, ashwagandha stimulates the immune system and strengthens it. It increases body energy level.

Convalescent patients’ gain more energy and can spring back to normal routine quicker when this herb’s preparations are used after an illness.

The immediate relapse of disease is prevented on use of Ashwagandha. This supports HIV patients by strengthening their immune system. 

Anti-inflammatory properties: It has anti-inflammatory properties and has been successfully used in adjuvant therapy for arthritis. It reduces inflammation of joints and eases movements.

Effects on digestive system: Ashwagandha increases appetite . It normalizes digestion and bowel movements.

Effects on the reproductive system:  This magic herb increases shukra dhatu, sperm count, and sperm motility. It increases libido and known as best Vajikara dravya (aphrodisiac) 

It is also used as a uterine tonic and to enhance female libido.

Ashwagandha retards aging process when used as rasayana (rejuvenating preparation).

It reduces hypertension and also acts as a diuretic.

Effects on a pregnant woman: Ashwagandha is very effective in conditions like habitual abortion, threatened abortion. It stabilizes pregnancy and balances hormones which stabilize pregnancy.

Useful preparations of Ashwagandha:

1. A paste of ashwagandha leaves when applied on a local inflammation acts as anti-inflammatory.  

2. The herbal massage oil which includes this herb is useful in many conditions like paralysis, epilepsy, sleeplessness etc.

3. The preparation of Ashwagandha which is processed with ghee, sugar, and honey is a very good aphrodisiac and increases semen quantity, sperm count and motility. It is effectively used in Erectile dysfunction, low libido, and premature ejaculation.

4 Ashwagandha roots, when used regularly, helps to improve the conditions like emaciation of children, senile debility, rheumatism, in all cases of general debility, nervous exhaustion, brain-fag, low of memory, loss of muscular energy and spermatorrhoea.  It increases body energy and vigor. It helps to rebuild the body system which is worn out due to chronic diseases like syphilis, rheumatism etc. It also replenishes the lowered energy of a body due to over-work, mental exertion thus preventing early aging.

5 Ashwagandha when used regularly, is very useful for emaciated children. It increases body weight and body energy.

6 Regular use of ashwagandha helps to reduce blood sugar and cholesterol levels.

7 Fine powder of ashwagandha well mixed with oil is very use full in many skin conditions.

8 Ashwagandha also acts as galactogogue and thickens the milk when given to nursing mothers.

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