5 Ways To Introduce Ayurvedic Principles Into Your Daily Diet

You are what you eat." Right, but only 50% right, according to the ancient healing tradition of Ayurveda. The combination of what you eat and what your body does with what you eat is what actually shapes health and well-being.

According to Ayurveda, you are unique, and your dietary needs are unique too, determined by your body constitution, age, the season, your environment and your needs for balance at any given time. But there are some diet and digestion principles that are universally applicable. Here we present five that you can begin any time - the quick and-simple way to incorporate the Ayurvedic way of eating into your daily diet. Once you start seeing results, you can delve more deeply into doshas - Ayurvedic body types - and tailor a diet and digestion routine that' best for you.

1. Add some Zest to Your Life with Lemon!

Add the freshly squeezed juice of half a lemon to a large cup of really warm water and drink first thing in the morning. Fresh lemon juice in moderation is good for all doshas. Lemon is a wonderful aid to internal cleansing. Antibacterial and antiseptic, lemon retards the presence of disease-causing bacteria in the digestive tract. It is also a digestion enhancer and helps reduce bloating and flatulence. It kindles a lethargic appetite, getting the digestive juices flowing. And it aids elimination, so your digestive tract is naturally flushed clear every morning. As an antioxidant, lemon helps fight disease-causing free radicals in the body. It helps keep your skin clear and your eyes sparkling.

More ways to use fresh lemon:

Add lemon zest to your herbal tea.

Squeeze some fresh lemon juice over your lentils.

Skip the fatty prepared dressing and opt for a squeeze of fresh lemon and a dash of extra-virgin olive oil over your salad.

2. Say "No Ice, Please!"

According to Ayurveda, iced beverages, especially with or right after a meal, can really slow down digestion. Imagine pouring cold water over burning coals set up to cook your food. That's effectively what you do to your digestive fires when you gulp down iced beverages with your meal. Instead, opt for digestion-enhancing drinks. Warm water infused with fragrant fennel helps enhance digestion, prevents bloating, and freshens your breath naturally. Cumin tea, or ginger-mint tea made with fresh ginger root slices and fresh mint leaves are great alternatives.

Warm herb/spice teas stimulate the digestion, help your body assimilate the nutrients from the foods you eat and help flush toxins from the system.

To make herb or spice teas, bring water to a boil, add the fresh herbs or spices, turn off the heat, and cover. Let steep for 5-7 minutes, strain and enjoy.

3. Invite All your Senses to the Table

Digestion begins much before the first morsel of food goes down your throat. When food is prepared properly and presented beautifully, and your body and mind are receptive, all of your senses can aid digestion. When you eat mindfully, colors, flavors, aromas and textures blend to make the process of eating a delightful and productive experience.

Create an inviting, pleasant environment to aid in the enjoyment of a meal:
• Keep the dining table free of clutter. Only your food should grace the table at mealtimes.
• Diffuse appetizing aromas 30 minutes before your meal - lemon, orange and coriander are wonderful for getting those digestive juices flowing.
• Eat in a silent, serene atmosphere. Keeping your mind free of clutter while you eat will help your body and mind make the best use of what you're ingesting.

4. Take a Lunch Break!

How many times a week do you grab a quick bite for lunch, use lunch as an excuse for getting business accomplished or skip lunch altogether?

According to Ayurvedic healers, lunch should be THE most important meal of the day. It's the time of day when your digestion is naturally at its peak, and your body best able to complete the digest-absorb-assimilate cycle.

Yet most of us eat the biggest meal of the day at night, often not long before we go to bed, and the body has to rev up and work hard to digest the food at a time when it should be trying to get into rest mode. Unless you're among the lucky few with a workhorse for a digestive system, eating heavy at night tends to result in undigested food clogging up your insides. You'll find it harder to fall asleep, your skin might break out, you'll gain weight easily, and you'll not feel as energetic as you should during the day.

So take that lunch break, and eat your most substantial meal of the day around noon. Heavier foods and yogurt should be eaten at lunch rather than dinner for the same reasons.

And when you have five to ten precious extra minutes, take the time to just sit quietly after the meal, savoring the experience, before you resume activity. This will direct your body's energy towards digestion before you draw it to other activities.

5. Drink to Good Health!

Water, the Ayurvedic beverage of choice, is crucial for digestion and absorption and to help flush toxins out of the body. It helps prevent bloating and constipation, and helps transport nutrients to the cells and tissues. It helps support the metabolism of fat.

Drink room temperature water or warm water through the day. Water spiked with digestion enhancing spices and herbs is even better. Light, clear vegetable broths, prepared fresh each day, are good detoxifiers and offer soothing comfort on cold winter days.

Indian Board of Alternative Medicine
80, Chowringhee Road
Calcutta - 700002
India
http://www.altmedworld.net

Yoga in the Office: A quick and effective stretch

It's great when we can escape to a full hour of yoga, be it in a class or at home in front of a video, but let's face it, that's not always possible. Enter Yoga in the Office, a series of simple but effective suggested positions to help stretch the wrists, neck, shoulders, back and legs.

Neutral Posture: Neutral posture is probably the most important position to understand and practice, for it is the position in which the spine is most stable and properly aligned. Whether standing or sitting, it means placing the feet hip-distance apart and facing forward. Look down at your feet: do they look like this | | or this \ / ? They should look like that first shape: parallel, with no outward rotation. If you're sitting in a chair, your heels should sit right underneath your knees, so that your knees and hips are bent at right angles. Sit near the edge of your chair, and sit tall. Lift your ribcage, and roll your shoulders back to open the chest. Feel a slight arch to your low back, and keep your chin level. Draw your belly button inward lightly, but not so much that your ribcage contracts downward. Breathe smoothly; hold this position for a minimum of 1-2 minutes, all the while concentrating on relaxing your shoulders.

Abdominal Breathing: As simple as it seems, a few minutes of proper abdominal breathing can do much to interrupt your stress levels and help you relax. Sit up in neutral posture and place your hands on your abdomen. As you inhale, feel your abdomen expand like a balloon, then slowly contract your abdomen by "sucking" in your belly button as you exhale. Relax your shoulders. Keep going: inhale with an expanding abdomen, and exhale while contracting your abdominal muscles. If possible, inhale through your nostrils, and exhale through pursed lips (think of the shape of your mouth when you're about to pronounce the letter "P"). Stop the exercise immediately if you feel at all light-headed (proper abdominal breathing should not cause this). When you inhale, try not to lift your shoulders; let the breath "move" into your stomach.

Neck Stretches: With hands resting on your waist, gently lower your chin to relax the back of your neck. Be sure the rest of your body is still sitting or standing tall in neutral posture; the only area that is bent is your neck. After holding through 2-3 breaths, return upright to neutral posture, then lower your right ear down towards your right shoulder. Hold through at least 2-3 breaths, and relax the left side of your neck thoroughly. Return upright and repeat on the other side. Finally, rotate your neck as far around towards the right as it feels comfortable, hold for 2-3 breaths, then return to center and repeat on the left side.

Shoulder Shrugs: With your hands at your sides, lift your shoulders up towards your ears as you inhale, then release the shoulders back down as you exhale. Repeat: lift and tense the muscles of the shoulders and neck as you inhale, then relax them completely as you exhale. Repeat at least 4-6 times.

Wrist Stretches: Hold up one hand in front of you like you would when saying "stop." Interlace your fingers with your other hand and pull your fingers back gently to provide a stretch to your wrist. Relax your shoulders, and hold through at least four breaths. Now, change the position of your hand so that your fingers point downward, and the back of your hand faces away from you. Take hold of the back of your hand with your other hand and pull gently toward you to stretch the back of your wrist. Hold through at least four breaths, then perform both stretches on the other hand.

Chest Stretch: Place your hands behind your back, holding a scarf, belt, or necktie in between them. Stand up tall in neutral posture, and gently squeeze your shoulder blades towards the center of your back as though trying to squeeze a pencil. Each time you exhale, raise your arms slowly behind you, going as high as feels comfortable, but not so high that your neck or shoulder posture is compromised. Try to relax your neck, shoulders, and chest as you perform this. Repeat at least 4-6 times.

Lateral Side Stretch: If you have pre-existing back problems, check with your doctor before performing this position. Stand tall with your feet hip-distance apart. Raise one arm overhead, and as you exhale, begin a gentle lean to the other side. Be sure your chest continues to face forward, and that your arm remains all the way up; don't drop your arm in front of your face or let your upper body twist downward. Try to keep your top arm fully stretched; avoid bending the elbow. Relax your shoulders and waist. Hold through two breaths, come up and repeat on the other side. Then start over; work up to a total of 4-8 repetitions.

Standing Spinal Twist: Stand with your right foot in front of your left foot. Place your right arm straight out in front of you, with your left thumb on top of your head. Keep your spine aligned; that is, do not lean forward or back. Gently rotate your right arm and upper body as far around as you can, keeping your focus over your right hand. Make sure your weight remains evenly distributed on both feet; do not raise either heel. Hold the position through three breaths as you consciously try to relax your shoulders and lightly contract your abdomen. Return back around and switch legs to perform the other side.

Seated Hip Stretch: If you have concerns regarding your knee, check with your doctor before attempting this position. Sitting in a chair, cross your right leg on top of your left leg so that your right ankle is just above your left knee. Point your right leg as far out to the side as possible. Place your right hand on your right knee, and your left hand on your right foot. Gently, sink your chest forward over your right lower leg; go as far forward as you comfortably can, and hold the position through at least four breaths. Relax your low back, shoulders, and hip muscles. Slowly return upright and repeat on the other side.

Indian Board of Alternative Medicine
80, Chowringhee Road
Calcutta - 700002
India
http://www.altmedworld.net

The Philosophy Of Natural Healing

The factors that create our health are part of our environment. They form an inward moving spiral in which we occupy the center. At the periphery is our environment in nature, which is composed of solar and other forms of energy, air, water, soil, and other living things. Within this is our more immediate environment, including the climatic and geographic region in which we live, our living place, for example, whether city or country, our work and social environment, and our home. It is within this environment that we think and act each day. Our thinking and actions are the product of the above plus daily food, which is the concentrated form of the environment that we internalize several times a day. Our daily thoughts and actions, which can be termed "lifestyle," determine our choice of food.

Food in turn affects our thoughts and actions. Environment, lifestyle (including our day-to-day thoughts), and food all combine to create our present state of health. If these factors are in balance, or in other words, if our daily life and diet is harmonious with our environment in nature, we experience health. If, on the other hand, they become extreme or one-sided, we lose harmony with our environment and experience sickness. Natural healing is based on the principles of change and balance. Change is the basic law of life. It is the order of the universe. Yet, as manifestations of the universe, we have the ability to cause or initiate change. Everyone has the power to change direction from sickness to health. The first step in healing is to realize that change is possible, and to act upon that realization.

Let us take daily diet as an example. Daily food and drink are the direct source of our physical makeup. Our blood, cells, organs, tissues, and glands are a transformation of the minerals, proteins, lipids, enzymes, water, and other nutrients that we ingest daily. Therefore, any consideration of physical health must of necessity begin with daily food. Many of today's health problems are caused by the repeated consumption of meat, eggs, cheese, poultry, and other foods of animal origin. These health concerns, including cancer and heart disease, are the result of problems of quantity and quality. In terms of quantity, people eat much more animal food than they did several generations ago, far beyond what is necessary or reasonable. Animal foods are essentially the centerpiece of the modern diet. In terms of quality, modern artificially inseminated, hormone and antibiotic-fed livestock bear little resemblance to their natural ancestors. The appearance of "Mad Cow" disease and the European Community's refusal to accept hormone-fed American beef underscores just how serious these issues have become.

Modern chicken is especially problematic; all the more so because many people believe it to be a "healthy" alternative to meat. John Robbins, in his classic expose' of the food industry Diet for a New America, gives a detailed description of how chickens are confined indoors in small cages. They are so weak and susceptible to infection that they require regular doses of antibiotics to keep them alive. They are also fed synthetic growth hormones to speed their development. One result of these practices, according to Robbins, is that as many as 95 percent of the chickens going to market have some form of cancer!

Clearly, modern chicken is not a health food. Now, suppose someone is facing a health crisis caused by over-reliance on animal food. How can he or she change their situation into its opposite, or in other words, change their direction toward health? The first step would be to change from an animal-based to a plant-based diet.

Meat, eggs, cheese, chicken, and other animal products are generally contractive. Plant foods have the opposite quality. However, some plant foods are extremely expansive, while others are moderately so. The comprehensive factor that determines whether plant foods are moderate or extreme is their climate of origin. Foods such as sugar, chocolate, spices, tropical fruits, nightshade vegetables, and coffee come from tropical zones. The heat of the tropics produces lush and expanded growth. Moreover, the greater speed of the earth's rotation at the equator creates strong expansive force. Foods that come from the tropics are generally extreme.

On the other hand, plant foods that grow in the temperate zones are exposed to colder temperatures that cause them to be relatively contractive. Within the overall spectrum of foods, they are centrally balanced. Whole grains, beans, local vegetables and fruits are from the temperate regions and are generally balanced. When we eat in the middle our food becomes our medicine. (The word "medicine" is from the Latin root, "to walk in the middle." ) Our food enhances, rather than inhibits, healing and regeneration. Daily diet is the central issue in our lifestyle as a whole. It is a reflection of our priorities and way of looking at society, nature, and the universe. Dietary change, combined with an understanding of balance, can serve as the focus for a change in lifestyle. Unhealthy lifestyle patterns and environmental influences can be reviewed and changed into their opposites, so that they can be brought into alignment with natural harmony. Changing diet sets in motion a spiral that affects all aspects of life. The whole direction of your life will change from sickness to health.

Indian Board of Alternative Medicine
80, Chowringhee Road
Calcutta - 700002
India
http://www.altmedworld.net

Trataka – A Meditation Practice for Everyone

Trataka is a wonderful practice for everyone and especially for the aspirant of meditation. It is actually classified as a cleansing practice in Yoga.

What it is?

To put it briefly, Trataka - also called Yogic gazing - is a practice where the gaze is fixed on an object for some time and then that object is visualized clearly with the eyes closed, as an inner image at the eyebrow center.

Benefits

Trataka has several benefits which would be helpful to every one and not only mediation aspirants:
• Trataka is believed to have a helpful effect in treating and even resolving several eye disorders such as weak eyesight. It improves the internal and external optic function.
• It improves concentrative powers and mental resolve.
• It helps in disconnecting with the noise and distractions of the external world. This is deeply relaxing.
• In yoga, it is said to also develop the "third" eye - the seat of intuition or that associated with "psychic" powers.

How it Works?

At the physical level it is said to strengthen the eye muscles by exercising them to focus upon a point. Practicing Trataka on an object such as the candle flame is said to provide a unique 'balming' effect to the eyes which help in eye health and in the alleviation of certain eye disorders.

At the pre-meditative level, it is necessary to stall eyeball movement for great benefits and experiences. As we are aware, eyeballs are constantly in motion even while sleeping in the form of REM (Rapid Eye Movement). The aim is to minimize and eventually stall even this minutest of movement. Trataka is a wonderful practice in Yoga to achieve this, as it helps in overcoming this by focusing on a point and then visualizing its after-image with the eyes closed.

Many of the hurdles in our personal lives and even on the path to meditation have to do with our inability to disconnect with the external world at will. In yogic terminology, this would mean the inability to withdraw our senses from the sense objects. Trataka, through the focus on one object, helps to make this disconnect more easily and prepares us to do so at will. This is relevant to almost everyone, but specifically vital for the meditation aspirant.

How it is done?

Trataka can be practiced on several objects, but the most popular and effective is trataka on a flame. This is because a flame (such as a candle flame) produces the best after-image that helps in easier visualization of the flame even when eyes are closed. This is the desired effect of Trataka - wherein you can visualize and concentrate on the image even when the eyes are closed.

You should first be seated in a comfortable meditative posture or a squatting position with spine erect. If you have trouble squatting on the mat, you may raise the seating by a few notches.

A candle is placed in a Trataka Stand and the height of the stand is adjusted so that the wick of the flame is at horizontal eye level. The stand is placed at an arm's length. Trataka is to be practiced with spectacles removed, so people with spectacles may have to adjust the distance between the stand and themselves, so that they observe a clear image of the candle wick without blur.

The focus should on the top end of the wick, as the candle burns. Keep your eyes relaxed while fixing the gaze on the wick. Try not to blink as blinking will interfere in the formation of a clear inner image.

This gaze is kept constant for some time and then eyes closed. With the eyes closed, you should try to observe the inner image of the flame at the eye brow center.
If you don't see it, don't be disappointed - you should start seeing it with practice. Keep the eyes closed for as long as you see the inner image. Then re-start.
It can be safely said that the practice of Trataka is a powerful practice especially relevant in today's stressful times and a necessary one for the sincere yoga aspirant.

Indian Board of Alternative Medicine
80, Chowringhee Road
Calcutta - 700002
India
http://www.altmedworld.net

Hair Loss Prevention through Ayurveda

Hair loss is experienced by all of us at one or the other time. To know the causes of hair fall, it is very essential to know the structure of hair and its normal growth cycle.

Structure of Hair

The hair on our scalp can be divided into two parts, the root and shaft. The root part of hair is in the skin (epidermis) of scalp. The hair root is surrounded by a pouch like structure called follicle. The base of hair root is in the shape of a bulb. This bulb is indented by capillaries and nerve fibers. The cells in the center of bulb divide. The newly divided hair cells push the previous cells up. The cells which move upwards die slowly forming hard hair shaft.

The hair shaft has three layers the cuticle, medulla and cortex. Cuticle is the outer layers and protects the inner layers. It is transparent. Healthy cuticle gives a shiny appearance for hair and unhealthy cuticle gives lifeless look.
Medulla is the innermost layer composed of large cells.

Cortex is the layer between cuticle and medulla. This contains pigment and keratin. Cortex determines the bulk and strength of hair.

The hair follicle contains oil secreting glands which make the hair shiny. Stress and illness diminish secretion of oil and pigments causing graying of hair. According to Ayurveda the hair is considered as a tissue which uses the same nutrients of bone and considered as a tissue which is formed as bi-product of bone tissue.

Normal Cycle of Hair Growth

About 10 % of the hair on the scalp is in a resting phase at any given time. The resting hair falls after 2 to 3 months and new hair starts growing in its place. The growing phase continues for 2.25 to 6 yrs. During this phase each hair grows approximately 1 cm per month. At any given time about 90% of the hair on scalp will be in growing phase.

Few strands of hair fall as the part of normal hair growth cycle. But some people may experience excessive hair fall which is more than normal cycle. Excessive hair loss can affect men, women and children.

Causes of Hair Loss

1. Hormonal imbalance in men and women: In men high concentration of dihydrotestosterone (DHT) in hair follicles causes hair fall. In women hormonal imbalances during pregnancy and after delivery cause hair fall.
2. High amount of sebum in scalp clogs pores of scalp and prevent nutrition to hair follicle.
3. Inadequate nutrition causes hair fall.
4. Stress, worry, lack of sleep, worry and anxiety cause hair fall
5. Long standing diseases like typhoid, viral infections, anemia, surgery etc cause general debility which lead to hair fall
6. Some medicines used for gout, chemo therapy of cancer, birth control pills, antidepressants etc cause hair fall
7. Diseases like lupus, diabetes cause hair fall.
8. Tying hair tightly pulls the hair from follicles and cause traction alopecia.
9. Heredity also causes hair fall.
10. Dandruff or Fungal infection of scalp.
11. Accumulation of dirt on scalp causes blocking of pores and weakens hair roots. This leads to hair fall.

According to Ayurveda the causes of hair loss are described as follows

1. Too much exposure to dust, sunlight, water and other pollutants.
2. Too much of sweating.
3. Irregular sleeping pattern.
4. Anxiety, depression, insomnia.
5. Unhygienic way of living
6. Diseases
7. Alcohol consumption.

Hair Loss Remedies

1. Liberal intake of vitamins.
2. High protein and iron rich diet.
3. Consumption of raw vegetables, fresh fruits, salads, green leafy vegetables regularly.
4. Washing hair regularly (twice weekly) with suitable shampoo.
5. Using relaxing techniques to overcome stress, anxiety and sleeplessness.
6. Preventing fungal infections of scalp.
7. Preventing hairstyles which pull hair.

Due to these causes the tridoshas get vitiated and cause hair loss. The vitiated doshas affect the scalp skin and cause hair fall occurs. Medicated oil with the herbs Bhringaraja (Eclipta Alba), Amalaki (Embelica officinalis), Haritaki (Terminalia chebula) and Vibhitaki (Terminalia bellirica) is a best remedy for hair fall.

Indian Board of Alternative Medicine
80, Chowringhee Road
Calcutta - 700002
India
http://www.altmedworld.net

Ayurvedic Approach to Indigestion and Concept of Agni

The word Indigestion is commonly used to describe the discomfort in one's belly mostly caused after food consumption. Fullness, bloating, nausea, heart burn are other symptoms of Indigestion.

Before discussing Indigestion, understanding the process of digestion is very essential. The Ayurveda approach of explaining digestion is very simple and effective. The food we eat is digested by Agni or body fire which is present in our body. It is very much similar to the way we cook the food. The Agni or body fire helps to digest the food which is consumed, much like the fire of a stove cooks the food kept on it. The Agni is mainly situated in Jatara or in upper part of digestive system and is called as Jataragni. The Agni is further categorized as Bhootagni (which digests the 5 pancha mahabhoota factors present in food), Dhatwagni (The Agni present in tissues which help them to absorb required nutrients), Malagni ( the Agni which helps in formation of body wastes like stools, sweat and urine) . The Jataragni controls bhootagni, dhatwagni and malagni. Through this it is evident that ayurveda approach of digestion explains cellular metabolism too.

The factors which help Agni to digest the food completely: Thridoshas -Vata , Pitta and Kapha help Agni to digest the food.

If the process of digestion is compared to that of cooking rice, the stomach, like the vessel., receives food. Vata provides the necessary conditions like the air blower, Pitta acts like the stove, providing optimum working conditions while Kapha provides the moisture needed much like the water in the vessel. When all these factors are normal and well balanced, an optimum condition is created to digest the food completely.

When food is completely digested by all the Agnis, the body tissues will be well nourished and one is blessed with attractive complexion, glow, longevity, strength, good health, growth, enthusiasm, vitality and overall healthy development of body and mind.

The indigestion occurs when Agni is imbalanced by the factors (tridoshas) which help Agni to digest food. The variations of Agni due to tridoshas are of 4 types.

Samagni (balanced Agni): The Agni which is well balanced due to balanced tridoshas indicate the condition called Samagni . Samagni digests the food completely and nourishes the body tissues very well.

Vishamaagni (varying Agni): When vata is predominant this condition surfaces. The regular food gets digested normally on some occasions and poorly on others. Vata increasing foods and lifestyles lead to this condition. This variation of Agni causes constipation, flatulence, pain in abdomen and other vata predominant diseases. The indigestion caused by this type of Agni is called Vistabdhajeerna

Teekshnagni (increased Agni): This variation of Agni occurs due to predominance of pitta. Pitta increasing foods and lifestyle cause this variation. This variation of Agni causes increased hunger, thirst, acidity, heart burn and loose motions. The indigestion thus caused is called as Vidagdajeerna.

Mandagni (decreased Agni): As increased moistness reduces the intensity of fire, the increased kapha reduces the intensity of Agni. Kapha increasing foods and lifestyle cause this variation. Feeling Heaviness of body, swelling of eyelids (lower), belching which emit the smell of food consumed and water brash are few symptoms which of indigestion caused by mandagni. The indigestion caused by mandagni is called as amajeerna.

The decreased Agni improperly digests the food and this indigested food is sticky in nature and improperly nourishes tissues, causing weakness of body. This sticky improperly digested food is called ama. Ama due to its sticky nature blocks the channels of body, vitiate doshas , contaminates tissues, imbalance body functions and cause diseases.

Causes of imbalance of Agni which lead to indigestion

1. Spicy foods, chilly, oily foods, medicines, milk and milk products, tobacco and alcohol.
2. Irregular food habits and sleeping patterns.
3. Medications like pain killers, antibiotics, oral contraceptives and steroids.
4. Intestinal parasites.
5. Diseases of pancreas, liver, gall bladder, intestinal infections etc.
6. During pregnancy, premenstrual period, menopausal period in women.
7. Emotional upset like anxiety, stress, examination, family tensions, etc.

Home Remedies for Indigestion

1. Fasting completely for one day helps to normalize imbalanced agni and digest ama.
2. Consuming liquid foods, boiled vegetables or fruit juices for 2- 3 days also improves Agni and relieves indigestion.
3. Avoid the factors (mentioned above) which cause indigestion.
4. Mix a tea spoon of lemon juice, tea spoon ginger juice and little salt in a cup of water and consume thrice daily.
5. Drinking glass of warm water once in 2 hours increases Agni and digests ama.
6. Cook cup of rice with 4 cups of water with crushed ginger and salt. Powder long pepper (2 or 3)and fry it in a spoon of cow's ghee and add it to gruel. Consume this when it hot. This is very light to digest and relieves colic pain.
7. Abdominal Massage also helps to relieve indigestion. It loosens the tight muscles and increases the blood supply to digestive system.

Consuming well balanced food which keeps doshas and Agni in balanced condition always keeps body healthy and free from diseases.

Indian Board of Alternative Medicine
80, Chowringhee Road
Calcutta - 700002
India
http://www.altmedworld.net

Baldness (Alopecia) and Alopacia Areata and its Ayurvedic Management

Hair loss or baldness is usually caused because of genetics (inherited tendency), disease, medications, stress, injury or damage to the hair. Generalized hair loss is termed Alopecia whereas small, circular bald patches are termed as Alopecia Areata. The two conditions have been clubbed here together because of similarity of symptoms, and the Ayurvedic principles of treatment for both are described here. It is noteworthy to mention here that treatment is usually effective for premature hair loss, and where the cause is amenable to treatment.

In Ayurveda, baldness is termed as "Khalitya" in Ayurveda. Alopecia areata is termed as "Indralupta". Ayurvedic herbal treatment is aimed at treating known causes, immuno-restoration, treating the local scalp condition and reducing stress.
Ayurveda Treatment:

1. Local Treatment
Medicated oils are used for local application. Some of the commonly used oils are: Vranashodhan oil, Bhrungraj (Eclipta alba) oil, Amalaki (Emblica officinalis) oil, Brahmi (Bacopa monnieri) oil, Jaswand (Hibiscus rosa-sinensis) oil, Vatajatadi oil and Bhallatak (Semicarpus anacardium) oil. Some Ayurvedic physicians use leech therapy at the bald spots before using the above mentioned local medications. Some advise a course of enemas of medicated milk (called as "Tikta-Ksheer Basti") in conditions of extensive hair loss.

2. Immunomodulators

Some medicines which are used orally are: Arogya Vardhini, Gandhak Rasayan, Laxadi Guggulu, Rasayan [ a combination of Gokshur(Tribulus terrestris), Amalaki (Emblica officinalis) and Guduchi (Tinospora cordifolia)].

Ayurveda believes hair to originate from the "Asthi" or bone tissue, and therefore, to treat hair loss, medicines to strengthen bone are given orally on a long-term basis. Some medicines used for this purpose are: Pancha Tikta Ghruta, Mahatikta Ghruta, Praval Panchamruta, Laxa and Asthishrunkhla (Cissus quadrangularis). Milk and black gram are advised for consumption in large quantities.

Medicines like Brahmi (Bacopa monnieri), Jatamansi (Nardostachys jatamansi), Shankhapushpi (Convolvulus pluricaulis) and Vacha(Acorus calamus) are given orally to reduce stress.

3. Detoxification (Panchakarma) Treatment

It is believed that regular application of medicated oils in the nose (a procedure called "Pratimarsha Nasya") has an important role to play in preventing premature baldness and graying of hair. Anu oil and Panchendriya Vardhan oil are usually used for this procedure.

Indian Board of Alternative Medicine
80, Chowringhee Road
Calcutta - 700002
India
http://www.altmedworld.net

Anti-Cancer Herbs

Triphala :

How It Works

Bottom Line: The anticancer effect of Triphala has not been confirmed in humans.

Triphala is an herbal formulation used in the Indian medicinal system of Ayurveda for the treatment of various ailments. It consists of three medicinal plants: Emblica officinalis, Terminalia chebula, and Terminalia belerica. It is used for anemia, jaundice, constipation, asthma, fever, chronic ulcers, inflammation, obesity and to strengthen the immune system against infections such as pneumonia, tuberculosis, and AIDS. Triphala was shown to have beneficial effects in studies done in laboratory and in animals. However human data are lacking.

Purported Uses

• To treat Infections. Studies done in mice showed that Triphala can reduce infections. No studies have been done in humans.
• To decrease high levels of cholesterol. Triphala was shown to reduce cholesterol levels in rats with high cholesterol. However, this has not been studied in humans.
• To strengthen the immune system. Studies in rats have shown that Triphala can improve immune function but human data are lacking.
Research Evidence

Several laboratory studies have shown that Triphala has beneficial effects. However, it has not been studied in humans.

Side Effects

Intestinal gas Stomach upset Diarrhea.

Constituents

Amla (Emblica officinalis) Myrobalan (Terminalia chebula) Belleric Myrobalan (Terminalia belerica).

Mechanism of Action

The exact mechanism of action is not known although the polyphenols and flavonoids are thought to be responsible for many of Triphala's effects. Gallic acid, a major polyphenol in Triphala, has antioxidant property. Triphala also increased the reactive oxygen species (ROS) in breast cancer cells (MCF-7 and T-47D), resulting in apoptosis. Terminalia chebula, one of the components of Triphala, was shown to be a potent hyaluronidase and collagenase inhibitor that prevented degradation of cartilage. Triphala also protected mice from radiation-induced mortality. Oral administration of Triphala enhanced the immune functions in rats.

Adverse Reactions
Intestinal gas, stomach upset, diarrhea.

Ashwagandha : How It Works

Bottom Line: While ashwagandha has shown an ability to hinder the growth of cancer cells in laboratory tests and enhance radiation therapy in animals, it is unknown if these effects can be replicated in humans.

A popular Ayurvedic medicinal substance derived from the root and berry of the plant. Ashwagandha contains numerous biologically active components. It is thought that some of these components can influence potent hormone-like substances that cause arthritis inflammation. Extracts of the root also increase the number of red and white blood cells and platelets in the blood. Ashwagandha has been shown to relax the central nervous system in animals. Studies in laboratories have shown that extracts of ashwagandha kill some cancer cells and enhance some immune cells. It is thought that the structure of ashwagandha extracts may damage the cancer cells ability to generate the energy it needs to reproduce. Ashwagandha also reduces the level of glutathione, an antioxidant, in tumor cells which may enhance the effects of radiation therapy against those cells. Studies in animals have demonstrated possible toxicity, however comparable effects have not been observed in humans.

Purported Uses

To treat cancer

While ashwagandha has shown promise in animal and laboratory studies, few trials have demonstrated an effect in humans.

To treat diabetes
No scientific evidence supports this use.

To treat epilepsy
No scientific evidence supports this use.

To reduce fatigue
Ashwagandha has been shown to increase blood cell counts in the lab, however it is unclear if this will reduce fatigue in humans.

To treat digestive disorders
No scientific evidence supports this use.

To maintain health
Ashwagandha has antioxidant properties in lab tests, however it is unclear if it will have any effect on humans.

To reduce pain
Ashwagandha has been shown to have a tranquilizing effect in animals. It is unclear if this will reduce pain in humans.

To treat rheumatoid arthritis
A clinical trial showed effectiveness of a herbomineral formula containing ashwagandha. To what extent ashwagandha played a role in the reduction in pain severity and disability is unclear.

As a sedative
Ashwagandha has been shown to have a tranquilizing effect in animals. It is unclear if it has a similar effect in humans.

To treat skin infections
No scientific evidence supports this use.

To relieve stress
Ashwagandha has been shown to have a tranquilizing effect in animals. It is unclear if it has a similar effect in humans.

Research Evidence

Arthritis Pain:

Forty-two volunteers with osteoarthritis participated in a trial of a herbomineral formula containing ashwagandha. Volunteers were randomly assigned to receive either a combination of herbs and minerals or placebo for three months. After a fifteen-day washout period, treatments were reversed. Volunteers in the treatment group reported significant drops in pain severity and disability score with few side effects. Because a combination of herbs was used, it is unclear if ashwagandha played an important role in the results.

Warnings: Do Not Take If

You are pregnant.
(Ashwagandha may induce abortion.)

You are You are taking sedatives.
(Ashwagandha may increase sedative effects.)

Scientific Name : Withania somnifera.

Family: Solanaceae

Constituents

Alkanoids: isopelletierine, anaferine
Steroidal lactones: withanolides, withaferins
Saponins: sitoindoside VII and VIII Iron

Mechanism of Action

Alkaloids, steroidal lactones, saponins and withanolides are thought to be the biologically active components. Studies have pointed to cyclooxygenase inhibition as the cause of the herb's anti-arthritis properties. Ashwagandha's anti-inflammatory effects were comparable to hydrocortisone sodium succinate in rats. The root extract of the herb produced significant increases in hemoglobin concentration, red blood cell count, white blood cell count and platelet count. Ashwagandha has been shown to exhibit antioxidant effects in the brain and to have a tranquilizing effect on the central nervous system in animals. In vitro, isolates from the root of the plant have cytotoxic properties against H-460, HCT-116, SF-268 and MCF-7 cell lines. Ashwagandha increase cytotoxic T lymphocyte production. Other studies show ashwagandha's cytotoxicity is related to its structure and that it enhances ATPase and inhibits succinate dehydrogenase activity, impairing oxidative phosphorylation. In animal studies, ashwagandha can increase the effects of radiation therapy and inhibits tumor growth. The herb also reduces tumor GSH levels which may contribute to the enhancement of radiation response. Ashwagandha can reverse paclitaxel induced neutropenia in mice. Significant toxicity was observed at high doses in animal studies, however, toxicity studies in humans are limited.

Indian Board of Alternative Medicine
80, Chowringhee Road
Calcutta - 700002
India
http://www.altmedworld.net

Tea Tree Oil : 21 Uses

What is Tea Tree Oil?

Tea tree oil is an essential oil obtained by steam distillation of the leaves of Melaleuca alternifolia, a plant native to Australia. Due to its antifungal, antibacterial and anti viral properties tea tree oil is used either pure or mixed with other essential oils in a diversity of situations.

Some of the most common uses for tea tree essential oil are:

1) Tea Tree for Boils. Boils are red swollen and tender eruptions.
Tea tree oil has powerful antimicrobial properties and helps to fight infection. Apply a drop of undiluted tea tree oil to the boil several times a day until the eruption has healed.

2) Tea Tree oil for Impetigo.
Impetigo is a condition that causes tiny blisters, usually around the nose and mouth. Tea tree’s antibacterial properties help dry impetigo blisters. For a more effective treatment you can combine it with lavender essential oil which helps alleviate inflammation.

To prepare your remedy mix:
• 1 tablespoon of almond oil with
• ½ tea spoon of tea tree essential oil and
• ½ tea spoon of Lavender essential oil.

Apply to the blisters 3 times a day.

3) Tea Tree oil to eliminate warts
To eliminate warts. Tea tree oil has powerful antiviral properties and can help eliminate warts. Apply undiluted tea tree essential oil with a cotton swab directly to the wart several times a day.

4) Dry herpes blisters with tea tree oil.
Herpes being a virus cannot be treated with antibiotics. As an antiviral, tea tree oil helps to dry the herpes blisters. To prevent irritation of the skin and sensitive mucous membranes, dilute equal amounts of tea tree essential oil with vegetable oil and dab a small amount on to the blisters four times a day. Tea tree oil can also be applied directly to any blisters.

5) Tea tree oil to treat Inflammations
To treat Inflammations, apply a warm wash cloth impregnated with tea tree oil to the area for a few minutes. You can also apply undiluted tea tree oil directly on the inflamed area.

6) Tea tree oil to relieve colds
Use Tea Tree oil and Eucalyptus to relieve congestion during a cold.
Try a herbal steam inhalation using 2 drops of tea tree essential oil and 2 drops of eucalyptus essential oil in two litres of hot boiling water. Tea tree has antiviral and antibacterial properties and the eucalyptus oil helps drain mucous congestion.

7) For curing Athlete's Foot.

8) As a cure for nail and toenail fungal infections
Apply tea tree oil directly to infected area and cuticles.

9) Tea tree oil for acne
For treating inflamed and non-inflamed acne lesions you can apply tea tree oil directly onto infected area twice a day or add 60 drops of tea tree oil to your facial wash, apply twice daily. If you are applying tea tree oil over large areas of your face make sure you moisturize well your skin to avoid dryness. You can also try applying pure tea tree oil using a cotton ball onto slightly damp skin to lighten its effects.

10) Tea tree oil for dandruff
Tea tree oil can be used to reduce symptoms of dandruff.

11) To disinfect wounds.
Use tea tree oil to clean minor cuts to disinfect the wound.

12) Use tea tree oil to help with Asthma.
Just add a few drops of tea tree oil to a warm damp face cloth and breathe through it until the cloth cools down.

13) To relieve itchiness
To relieve itchinessfor insect bites, such as fleas, and disinfect the bite, add a drop of tea tree oil directly to the bite, you can repeat the treatment every 2 hours or until the itching has disappeared.

14) To get rid of head lice
Add a few drops of tea tree oil to your shampoo, massage into hair, leave on for about 10 minutes and rinse. Repeat the treatment once a day until lice and nits are gone.

15) Tea tree oil for a fresh breath
To always have a fresh breath make a mouthwash adding one drop of tea tree oil in a glass of water. Use as an ordinary mouthwash, be careful not to swallow as tea tree oil can be toxic if ingested.

16)To guard from disease
To guard from disease you can gargle with one drop of tea tree oil dissolved in a glass of water. This solution will help your body fight bacteria, as with the mouthwash; make sure you don’t swallow the solution.

17) For bladder infections
To relieve the symptoms of a bladder infection have a warm bath with 10 drops of tea tree oil in it.

18) For shaving
Use tea tree oil to disinfect your razors before shaving. Add a few drops of tea tree oil to your razor to make sure there are no harmful bacteria transferred from the razor to your skin.

19) Tea tree oil to prevent offensive body odours.
You can use a drop of tea tree oil in your armpits to prevent bad smells. You can also mix equal parts of tea tree oil and a carrier oil to rub your feet with before wearing your shoes for the day.

20) To repel insects in your house
add a few drops of tea tree oil to your house cleaning products.

21) Tea tree oil as a natural deodorizer
Use tea tree oil as a natural deodorizer for your clothes and to help with mould, mildew, and odour causing bacteria. Just add a few drops of essential tea tree oil to your washing liquid before using it. Alternatively, you can buy inexpensive tea tree oil to add to your wash load. One or 2 teaspoons in a load of laundry can eliminate a host of odour causing problems.

Indian Board of Alternative Medicine
80, Chowringhee Road
Calcutta - 700002
India
http://www.altmedworld.net

The Health Benefits of Arnica

Arnica has been recognized for its ability to relieve pain, discomfort and swelling since the 16th century. Also known as arnica Montana, Leopardsbane, Wolfsbane and European arnica. Native to Russia, Germany and North America it has been used for similar purposes by the North American Indians.

Arnica is an herbaceous and perennial plant which grows to approximately 1 to 2 ft high and a member of the daisy family. It is usually found in meadows and woodland areas and can be recognized by its golden yellow, aromatic flowers. It is revered and highly rated for its healing and calming effects on the body, used to reduce inflammation, as a decongestion and also has anti-fungal and antiseptic agents, often referred to as the warming herb, highly effective in the relief of arthritic pains.

It works by accelerating the healing process and has the ability to formulate granular tissue making it highly efficient in the treatment of burns, abrasions, eczema, sunburns and some skin cancers. The application of arnica promotes blood circulation which increases blood flow to the affected area and with the increased blood flow come nutrients which aid, promote and expedite the healing process. However, care should be taken not to apply it to open wounds, whist pregnant women are advised to refrain from its use during their confinement.

It is taken as a homeopathic preparation in the form of pills to cure ailment such as bronchitis, influenza, cystitis and kidney infections. Whilst arnica can be taken internally, it must be remembered that it is both potent and toxic, therefore it should only be taken under the control of a homeopathic advisor. There have been side effects and when taken in excessive doses, it can cause nausea, vomiting and diarrhea. Other noted side-effects, if used over long and sustained periods it can cause dermatitis and also believed to be a contributor in some kidney and liver conditions.

It can be purchased in many topical formulations as an oil, tincture, creams, gels, powders, salves, ointments, with very good results achieved in the treatment for acne. It has the ability to relax tense and painful muscles helping to make them supple and aid pain relief. It is considered irreplaceable by physiotherapists and masseuse who regard it as an important addition to their treatment cabinets also a particular favorite of athletics who use it after undertaking any form of strenuous exercises.

Arnica is a highly effective natural pain-killer which scientific studies have proven. Trials under controlled scientific conditions were undertaken using arnica and the much prescribed pain-killer ibuprofen. Test results indicated that arnica is as powerful and effective as Ibuprofen, which is good news for those who wish to only use natural pain relieving remedies.

Arnica is by all accounts a safe and effective alternative pain remedy and can be purchased from health food stores and pharmacies. However, each person is an individual and may react differently to substances, even when it comes from a natural source. It would therefore be prudent to first learn as much as possible about arnica before moving forward.

Indian Board of Alternative Medicine
80, Chowringhee Road
Calcutta - 700002
India
http://www.altmedworld.net