Ayushakti Ayurved

Go nuts on coconut water

Wed, 25 Jul 2012 01:36:59 -0400

What’s the most common sight on every beach in India, other than the water and people in it? It’s the coconut vendor! And it’s not just the beaches that find the coconut vendor peddling his wares, he can be even be found on the corner of the road, in the middle of the market, on the side of roads, outside parks, outside schools, colleges and hospitals…the list is endless. The man is everywhere! But it’s not him that we are interested in, we are interested the coconut’s that he sells, precisely the coconut water!

In the ayurvedic nighantus or classical texts which talk about raw materials or fruits, the coconut is actually divided into three types of coconuts -

Baal or Tender coconut: This type is 90 to 95 percent water. The liquid from this coconut is at its purest and most healing. It is considered the best for its cooling properties, for it is a proven pitta-pacifier.
Madhyam or Middle-aged coconut: In addition to water, the coconut at this stage has some soft pulp. Madhyam coconuts have less water than tender ones, but more water than mature coconuts. The water is slightly milky at this age. In the classical ayurvedic texts called Raj Nighantus, the middle-aged coconut is said to be the most nutritious. This type generally has more carbohydrates, protein, minerals, phosphorus, and Vitamins A, B, and C than the other two forms.
Mature or Pakva coconut: This type of coconut has firm “meat” or pulp, and very little water.

We Indians have been drinking coconut water as a refresher since time immemorial. But did you know that other than serving as a refresher during summers and when you are thirsty, coconut water offers many other health benefits. Following is a list of some of the health benefits offered by coconut water:

Coconut water’s main usefulness is that its electrolytic balance is the same as our blood as it is an isotonic beverage. This makes it an excellent choice when it comes to replenishing our bodies of the water and the electrolytes that are lost in sweating and urinating. What’s more, it’s the ideal drink for people who are looking to shed those flab because coconut water contains very less natural sugars - 5 mg per 100 ml, and no cholesterol along with very few calories making it the ideal choice for an ‘after-workout’ drink.

Reduces problems for infants with intestinal disturbances
Is an effective oral rehydration medium
Contains organic compounds possessing growth-promoting properties
Keeps the body cool
Used topically, it prevents prickly heat and summer boils and relieves rashes caused by small pox, chicken pox, measles etc.
Kills intestinal worms
Presence of Saline and albumen makes it a good drink in cholera cases
Checks Urinary infections
Cures malnourishment
Diuretic
Dissolves kidney and urethral stones
Useful as an intravenous solution
Useful as blood plasma substitute and is readily accepted by the body
Aids the quick absorption of drugs and makes their peak concentration in the blood easier by its electrolyte effect
Urinary antiseptic and eliminates poisons in the case of mineral poisoning

Only energy drink which can save you from the intense scorching heat of summers in India is Coconut, nothing, absolutely nothing can be compared to the coolness of a tender coconut water when you are almost getting fried!

India’s Queen of herbs- Tulsi

Fri, 20 Jul 2012 00:59:26 -0400

Often referred to as holy basil, Tulsi is a potent herb that has been used in India for thousands of years to treat colds, coughs, and flu. According to Ayurveda, tulsi promotes purity and lightness in the body, cleansing the respiratory tract of toxins and relieving digestive gas and bloating.

Tulsi’s main Ayurvedic guna (quality) as a healing herb is its ability to enhance the energetic resonance between the body and the environment. When Kapha, that governs mucus balance in the physiology, increases or becomes aggravated, the Pitta (fire) element and the circulation element (vata) in the physiology are doused, and this tends to increase the level of ama (toxins) in the body. This, in turn, leads to the immune system getting depressed.

Tulsi acts to pacify or decrease Kapha. The channels open, ama is cleared out of the body and the body’s agni—the fire element in the physiology—becomes strong again. Balance is restored among the three doshas, and the immune system is restored to a healthy state.

Tulsi is also considered as India’s Queen of herbs. Tulsi has spiritual as well as medicinal significance in Ayurveda. In Hindu mythology, the plant is an incarnation of the goddess Tulsi, offering divine protection. Many Indian families keep a living Tulsi plant in their homes – tending to it with great care and reverence. The plant’s woody stalks are often made into beads used in meditation malas or rosaries.

Tulsi has anti inflammatory properties as it reduces vata . Hence its external application on swollen parts helps to diminish swelling and pain.
Tulsi helps in many skin disorders. It is effective in skin rashes, insect bites and itching. Leaves of this plant are effectively used in ring worm infections and lucoderma.
Fresh juice of Tulsi leaves is used in nasya karma. This method helps to relieve headache and diseases of head and neck. Tulsi leaves help to sharpen memory.
Paste and Juice of Tulsi leaves help to reduce acne, pimples and scars.
According ayurveda, preparations of Tulsi are beneficial in indigestion, intestinal parasites and constipation.
Crushed leaves of tulsi are very effective in fever, cough, bronchitis and other diseases of lungs. It helps in expectoration of excess mucous secretion.
Tulsi acts as a cardiac tonic and purifies blood.
Seeds of tulsi are effective in premature ejaculation .It also increases quality of semen.
Consuming 10 – 12 leaves of Tulsi per day helps to reduce stress.
Apart from these researches have shown that tulsi is very effective in reducing blood sugar and blood cholesterol.

Can’t really stay away from rice!

Fri, 13 Jul 2012 19:48:37 -0400

Is rice a part of your daily consumed food? And yet feel guilty that eating rice is going to add to waistline. All those diet conscious people they can never be more wrong! Rice has been proven to be low in fat and calories but high in fibre. Moreover, the benefits of rice are not restricted to dietary benefits only. Rice is not only a staple food across the world but is a traditional symbol for health, fertility and wealth in several countries. Ancient priests used it as an ingredient in worship, and to this day, rice is thrown at newlyweds to bless them with healthy offspring and prosperity.

Rice is available in numerous varieties. The general varieties of rice are jasmine, Texmati, Arboria, Calmati, Japanese, Brown rice, Basmati rice and Wild rice. White rice is very easily digested as said in Ayurveda. In Ayurveda, Basmati rice is termed as the king of all rices. Basmati rice is pure or sattvic, it balances all three doshas, it works as nourishment for the body cells and it is easily digestible. Aged Basmati rice has an aroma, apparently the best in the world. Ayurveda suggests avoiding rice that is boiled, pre-cooked or instant as it has less prana, nutrition and energy in it.

Rice Facts of Ayurveda

Rice adds the sweet taste as said in Ayurveda. It is a soft, light, soft, smooth and energy giving food.
It is cooling in nature.
Rice is basically good for balancing Pitta and Vata.
It may generate excess mucus if consumed in excess. Excess consumption of rice in excess is not considered healthy for Kapha.
To balance Vata, eat rice that is well cooked, in sufficient water, and add a spoon of Ghee to the cooked rice.
Desserts made with milk and rice is specifically cool and act as balance for Pitta.
People trying to balance Kapha, must consume less rice, and dry roast the rice prier to cooking it in water.

Health benefits of rice can be found in more than forty thousand varieties of this cereal available in the world. The two main categories include whole grain rice and white rice. Whole grain rice is not processed much, therefore it is high in nutritional value, whereas white rice is processed so that the bran or outer covering is removed and it has less nutritional value

Some of the health benefits specified by them are as follows:

Great Energy Source: As rice is rich in carbohydrates, it acts as fuel for the body and aids in normal functioning of the brain.
Cholesterol Free: Eating rice is extremely beneficial for health, just for the fact that it doesn’t contain harmful fats, cholesterol or sodium. It forms an integral part of balanced diet.
Rich in Vitamins: Rice is an excellent source of vitamins and minerals like niacin, vitamin D, calcium, fibre, iron, thiamine and riboflavin.
Resistant Starch: Rice abounds in resistant starch, which reaches the bowel in undigested form. It aids the growth of useful bacteria for normal bowel movements.
High Blood Pressure: As rice is low in sodium, it is considered best food for those suffering from high blood pressure and hypertension.
Cancer Prevention: Whole grain rice like brown rice is rich in insoluble fibre that can possibly protect against many types of cancers. Many scientists believe that such insoluble fibres are vital for protecting the body against cancerous cells.
Dysentery: The husk part of rice is considered as an effective medicine to treat dysentery. A three month old rice plant’s husks is said to contain diuretic properties. Chinese people believe that rice considerably increases appetite, cures stomach ailments and indigestion problems.
Skin Care: Medical experts say that powdered rice can be applied to cure some forms of skin ailments. In Indian subcontinent, rice water is duly prescribed by ayurvedic practitioners as an effective ointment to cool off inflamed skin surfaces.
Alzheimer’s Disease: Brown rice is said to contain high levels of neurotransmitter nutrients that can prevent Alzheimer’s disease to a considerable extent.
Heart Disease: Rice bran oil is said to have antioxidant properties that promotes cardiovascular strength by reducing cholesterol levels in the body.

To end this heady discussion about the benefits of rice I would like to conclude by saying that there are very few pleasures on earth rival the taste of freshly cooked rice lightly sprinkles with hot desi ghee! Simply enticing!

Amla for Hair

Thu, 05 Jul 2012 11:43:03 -0400

Long and healthy hair is desired by women all over the world. Throughout the years, many hair care products have been formulated to promote healthier hair; however, natural, plant-based products have continued to stand the test of time. In India, amla-based hair products and recipes have been used for years to achieve healthier hair.

The amla fruit is also known as the Indian Gooseberry (Emblic Myrobalan) and comes from the amalaki tree originating in India’s tropical subcontinent. Amla is known to stimulate the hair follicle to encourage growth. It nourishes the hair shaft, adding strength and sheen, and cleanses the scalp to prevent dandruff, providing a perfect environment for long and healthy hair.

Amla oil for hair growth is one of the oldest herbal conditioner used for the hair. This oil has being used in Indian for a very long time and according to the ayurveda hair growth system, it is responsible for hair problems. This oil contains very high content of vitamin C which is also known as ascorbic acid because of which the fruit is palatable for direct consumption for its high acidity level. However, it can be used in promoting healthy hair growth.

Amla oil for hair growth is being used to prepare other hair products and cosmetics. It is often used in aromatherapy for scalp massages. Hair growth products that contain amla oil include hair conditioners and shampoos. Amla oil for hair growth helps enhancing hair growth, quality, pigmentation and also stimulating the roots and scalp. The oil also helps to reduce scalp problems like dandruff and scalp irritation.

Like most oils, amla oil stimulates hair growth in two ways. First, when used as scalp massage oil, amla helps increase blood flow and circulation to the scalp. The scalp stimulation from the massage alone encourages hair growth in sluggish hair follicles. Second, when amla oil is applied to the length of the hair, it creates a seal for moisture within the strands. This retained moisture keeps the hair pliable, supple and resistant to breakage.

Blending amla oil with other oils and powders such as brahmi, shikakai and reetha can have stimulating, nourishing effects on the hair. The addition of these other oils and powders will also counteract the often pungent smell of amla oil.

Medicinal uses of Ginger

Mon, 02 Jul 2012 01:01:16 -0400

Ginger is one of the most important plants used in herbal medicine and is used in the treatment of colds because of its ability to eliminate toxins and raise body heat. The dried rhizome of ginger contains approximately 1-4% volatile oils which are medically active constituents of ginger and also responsible for ginger’s characteristic odor and taste. Traditional Chinese medicine has recommended ginger for over 2,500 years. It is used for abdominal bloating, coughing, vomiting, diarrhea, and rheumatism. Ginger is commonly used in the Ayurvedic medicine for the treatment of inflammatory joint diseases, such as arthritis.

Medicinal uses of ginger

Digestive system: Ginger stimulates digestion by keeping the intestinal muscles toned and protects the stomach from the damaging effect of alcohol and non steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs and may help prevent ulcers.

Allergies and asthma: Dried ginger can help in the management of allergies and asthma by offsetting the effect of the platelet-activating factor (PAP) which initiates inflammatory processes in allergy and asthma.

Arthritis and pain: Ginger inhibits the production of immune-system components called cytokines which is believed to create a long-term tendency toward inflammation. They also help in blood circulation hence used in the treatment of Arthritis. They are also act as pain relievers without any side effects.

Anti-vomiting Actions: Ginger acts to alleviate nausea. Ginger acts directly on the gastrointestinal system or it affects the part of the central nervous system that causes nausea.

Parasitic infection: Ginger contains a chemical called zingibain that dissolves parasites and their eggs. Ginger tea is useful as a supplement in treating schistosomiasis, a parasitic disease.

Ginger is used to treat a wide range of health problems, from simple nausea to arthritis. Ginger combines well with many herbs, improving taste and potency. Ginger speeds up the delivery of healthy plant chemicals into the bloodstream.

Vitamin A for Good Vision

Fri, 22 Jun 2012 02:48:52 -0400

Many people in this world are without vision; the world for them is all black. Still, there are many among us who have the gift of vision yet do not tend to take proper care leading to different eye-related problems. These problems can be taken care of by doing simple things on a daily basis; by consuming necessary vitamins, minerals and nutrients rich food that help in maintaining healthy vision. Anti-oxidant vitamins like Vitamin A, Vitamin C and Vitamin E, not only help in protecting the eyes from free radicals but also help in promoting healthy cells and tissues necessary for eyes. Vitamin A plays an important role in vision, bone growth and health of the immune system. There are two types of vitamin A, depending on the type of food source it comes from: 1. Vitamin A from animal-derived foods is called retinol. This “pre-formed” vitamin A can be used directly by the body. Good food sources of retinol vitamin A include beef and chicken liver, whole milk and cheese. 2. Vitamin A obtained from colorful fruits and vegetables is in the form of “pro-vitamin A” carotenoids, which are converted to retinol by the body after the food is ingested. Good food sources of pro-vitamin A carotenoids include carrots, sweet potatoes, spinach, kale and cantaloupes. Vitamin A Deficiency One of the first signs of vitamin A deficiency is night blindness. Liver and cod liver oil, which are two great sources of Vitamin A have great optimistic effects on this condition. Lack of vitamin A causes the cornea to become very dry, leading to clouding of the front of the eye, corneal ulcers and vision loss. Vitamin A deficiency also causes damage to the retina, which also contributes to blindness. Researchers have discovered that the amplest source of Vitamin A in the entire human body is the retina and tissues found behind the eyes. In ancient times, many civilizations made use of liver, which is an exceptional source of Vitamin A to cure various types of eyesight problems. Vitamin A also helps to keep your eyes and retina moist to prevent the onset of many eyesight problems. “Carrots are good for your eyesight”, we were told as children and indeed around 500,000 children worldwide are going blind every year because their diet and their mothers’ breast milk do not contain sufficient amounts of vitamin A and Beta-carotene. Vitamin A is important for maintaining good eyesight, especially at night when it helps our eyes adjust to the dark. Vitamin A also helps fight infection, keeps skin and hair healthy, and supports bone growth and maintenance.

Benefits of Honey In Ayurveda

Tue, 12 Jun 2012 06:34:05 -0400

Ayurveda is an ancient Hindu system of medicine that has been practised for thousands of years and is becoming more popular worldwide due to its natural, holistic healing approach. For many centuries, honey has been used in vital alternative medicine of Ayurveda. It is mixed with a variety of herbs and spices and made into compound for curing various diseases. In Ayurveda honey is called as “Madhu” and 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 healing process.” The medicinal quality, taste, texture, colour, and aroma of honey differs according to the geographical area and the species of plants from which it has been collected. Eight types of honey are described in ayurveda depending on the type of bee which collects it. 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 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 natured. Usefull 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 modulation of voice. Dala - Dry and reduces vomiting. Amongst all the above “Makshika” is considered as the best type with immense medicinal properties. 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. Therapeutic value of honey: Honey is very good anti-oxidant which restores damaged skin and gives soft, young looks. Honey has anti-bacterial properties due to its acidic nature and enzymically produced hydrogen peroxide. Constant use of honey strengthens the white blood corpuscles which fight bacterial and viral diseases. It gives strength and power to the intestines by stopping the accumulation of toxic elements and killing the worms and is beneficial for constipation, dysentery and diarrhea. Honey gives relief to the patients suffering from asthma and Tuberculosis and is beneficial for those who do more of mental work. Honey improves eyesight, phlegm disorder and skin problem Ayurveda explains another special quality of honey. Honey takes the qualities of the substance which is added to it. This is the special quality of honey and hence referred as honey ‘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.

Meditation: enrichment for your body and soul

Tue, 29 May 2012 06:59:27 -0400

Meditation is a culmination of the Yogic and Ayurvedic knowledge. Meditation is not just a matter of closing one’s eyes and sitting silently. It is our ability to contact our true Self which is the source of life and intelligence. Meditation helps promote our highest impulses and also roots out harmful and intractable ones. It involves placing the mind in a calm and concentrated state so our mental energies can be renewed and transformed.

In a modern world that values activity, achievements and results, it is perhaps surprising that more people are turning to meditation. For all the activity of modern society, many still feel a fundamental need for silence, inner peace, and a moment of reflection. Meditation can reduce stress and help us relax; but, it can also give us a lot more. These are some of the benefits that daily meditation can give us.

Some of the spiritual benefits of meditation are

Experience oneness with the divine
Intuitive power strengthens
Heightened sense of unconditional love
Improved psychic abilities
Feeling of empowerment
Deeper understanding of life
Experience absolute happiness
Clear vision of the true purpose of life

Some health benefits of meditation are

Enhances immunity. Research has revealed that meditation increases activity of ‘natural-killer cells’, which kill bacteria and cancer cells.
Reduces anxiety and stress
Relaxation.
Increases blood circulation
Improvement in concentration
Helps in post-operative healing
Reduces activity of viruses and bacteria
Helps in the cure of chronic diseases like allergies , arthritis etc
It increases serotonin production which influences mood and behaviour. Low levels of serotonin are associated with depression, obesity, insomnia and headaches.

Psychological benefits of Meditation

Improvement in creativity
Reduces anxiety
Reduces depression
Reduces mood swings
Clarity in thinking and reasoning ability
Improvement in emotional stability
Improved memory

Meditation helps in improving the vital life energy, which is needed for healthy body and mind. It also plays an important role in controlling emotional pollution in our lives. It fills every cell of our body with the vital life energy and as this energy increases happiness within our heart increases. It is also a means to tap our highest potential.

Mighty Karela!

Fri, 25 May 2012 05:20:45 -0400

What comes first in your mind when you think of bitter gourd, obviously, its strong and bitter taste? Although this vegetable tastes bitter you will be overwhelmed to know the numerous health benefits.
Apart from being eaten mainly as vegetable in India and South East Asia, it is particularly established as a folk medicine due to its medicinal properties. It is also called bitter melon or balsam pear. Scientifically it is known by the name Momordica Charantia.

Nutrients present in the bitter gourd include phosphorus, manganese, magnesium and zinc. It is also among the best-known sources of thiamine, foliate and riboflavin.

Its vitamin content includes Vitamin B1, B2, B3 and Vitamin C. Apart from these it is also a rich source of calcium, iron and beta-carotene.

Bitter gourd is very beneficial for people suffering from diabetes. Consuming bitter gourd daily on an empty stomach is found very good and effective. Mind it do not do excessive consumption as it may lead to diarrhea and other stomach problems.

Its juice contains polypeptide, which is similar to insulin and can be used as an alternative to insulin in diabetic people. It helps in bringing down the sugar levels in blood and urine. This polypeptide is also known as ‘plant-insulin’.

Juice of bitter gourd leaves is found useful in the treatment of alcoholism. It repairs the liver after alcohol has been consumed. Its juice mixed with milk is beneficial for people suffering from piles. Paste of its root can be applied over piles for relief.

Regular use of bitter gourd juice boost body stamina and fights chronic fatigue syndrome. It also struggle blood boils and itching caused by bacterial toxic material in the blood. The beta-carotene content in bitter gourd helps in controlling eye disorders and enhances eyesight.

Since bitter gourd contains zero cholesterol and fats, its consumption lowers hypertension. It purifies blood and improves the blood circulation in the body. With its qualities, this vegetable is a natural blood purifier. It has a healthy impact on liver and is effective in controlling diabetes.

You can even apply its juice on to the affected area and cure a painful ailment such as arthritis. It has been advised that eating bitter gourd can also heal joint pains.

This magical vegetable can also work wonders in keeping up good digestion and has anti-inflammatory properties. No doubt, it is quite bitter and that is why people keep distance from it. However, the bitterer it is the more sweet it gets for your overall health care.

It is useful for people suffering from piles also. Lots of times, piles do not come under control with modern medicines and doctors suggest the patient to go for a surgery. Such patients are recommended trying one tablespoon of bitter gourd juice along with some sugar, two times a day. Just do it at least for a week and you would feel the difference by yourself?

Further if your children are suffering stomach worms, just make them gulp one tea spoon of bitter gourd for three to four day. No medicine can be as effective as this natural remedy. You just need to persuade your child to gulp it anyways. Nevertheless, bitter gourd juice can also prevent jaundice, if taken at very early stages.

Splitting Headaches!

Tue, 22 May 2012 02:09:00 -0400

Headaches are arguably the worst epidemic in the world that affects everyone, young and old. At one time or another, most people suffer from headaches. When suffering from a headache, most people reach for Aspirin, Tylenol or Ibuprofen. While pain killers offer temporary relief, they do not address the root cause of the headache and often headaches return.

Ayurveda, the traditional medicine from our rich land, is a holistic, natural approach to health and well being. Ayurveda utilizes herbs to offer natural relief while striving to correct internal imbalances. More importantly, Ayurveda looks toward a person’s lifestyle as the primary cause of headaches.

Headaches fall into three major categories: Migraine headaches, cluster headaches and tension headaches. These are caused due to aggravation of three different doshas. Headaches are also caused by:

Sinusitis
Hypertension
Constipation
Over work
Mental stress
Indigestion
Acidity
Sleeplessness
Fever
It may also be present as a symptom of some disease
Excessive consumption of tea, coffee, aspirin or nicotine is also known to contribute to headache
Nervous weakness
Anaemia
Deficiency of oxygen in the blood
Sitting too close to the television
Reading with insufficient light
Reading in a moving train or car

The goal of Ayurveda is to restore balance and optimum function within the patient. This is accomplished through proper diet, herbs, exercise and stress reduction. Stress reduction includes meditation, yoga and the creation of a harmonious lifestyle.

It is the creation of a harmonious lifestyle that is the most challenging for patients. Caught in a cycle of crisis management and struggling to survive, many patients are just keeping their head above water. The busier we become, the more our lifestyle suffers and the more difficult it is to take proper care of ourselves. It is no wonder we get sick. If a plants needs are ignored, it wilts. If a cars needs are ignored, it breaks down. If a humans needs are ignored, we suffer and become ill.

A harmonious life is one that supports the body to function optimally. It is a lifestyle that is relaxed and at ease. This does not mean laziness or a lack of productivity. Just the opposite, a person living a harmonious life can be more productive as they are sick less and their mind and body are clear and able to focus.

Try these simple practices to bring harmony and balance into your life and see if your headaches are improved.

Simple cooked vegetables without oil, vegetable juices and soup, fruits like apple, mango, grapes and fruit juices should be taken in sample quantities. Rice, salad and buttermilk are also good.
Some sweets and milk products can be taken moderately with small quantities of nuts.
Hot cow milk is very good to drink.
Avoid fried foods, meat, sour and spicy food.
Yogurt should be avoided, especially at night.
Adequate rest should be taken and exposure to cold, heat and rain should be avoided.
The natural urges (sneezing, passing stool and urine, hunger, thirst, sleep, breathing and yawning etc.) should not be suppressed.
The patient should also try to keep the mind free from anxiety, anger, mental tension and worry.

Equipped with a deep understanding of the root causes of headaches and lifestyle changes that help in avoiding headaches, we will lead much happier headache-free lives.

Summertime Hair Care

Fri, 11 May 2012 09:37:56 -0400

Ayurveda, the 5,000-year-old system of holistic healing from India, is becoming increasingly popular among spas, beauty salons and skin and hair care manufacturers worldwide because of the efficacy of its skin and hair care solutions. Ayurvedic recommendations for your hair are not only effective at maintaining hair strength, colour and lustre, they also steer you away from chemicals-based hair care that can create health problems in the long term.

Summer hair should literally be like a day at the beach: Relaxed, pretty, a little bit messy, and fun. But foolproof hair can be hard to come by, especially when humidity-induced frizz, sun-parched locks, and overly oily tresses get thrown into the mix. To help put the brakes on bad summer hair days, we decided to go in hot pursuit of the best and easiest-summer hair care tips to keep our tresses in top form.

Summertime is anything but good for your head. UV rays can harm your hair, fades its colour, dries it out, and burns your scalp, degrades the protective protein in hair; which oxidizes the colour to a brassy hue. Covering up is your best line of defence in protecting your hair: get a good hat (wide-brimmed) if possible, or scarf that hides your hair from the sun. If your hair is short cover it with a bandana.

Letting your hair down might just be one of the things you shouldn’t do in the summers. Knotting your hair, braiding it or wearing it up or in a bun will help contain frizzes.

It is believed that the condition of the hair reflects the condition of the whole body as well. It simply means that if your hair is not healthy then your body is unhealthy too. That is why the ayurvedic hair care has become important, because it has its own beneficial use to keep hair healthy and the whole body as well.

Diet and lifestyle are two major factors that influence the health of the hair. Like your skin, your hair needs nutrition from the inside out. If your diet is deficient in hair-friendly foods, or your digestion is not efficient, all the expensive shampoos and hair treatments in the world won’t be effective at maintaining the colour and longevity of your hair. So if you want a healthy, shining crown of hair, start by taking a hard look at what you eat, when you eat and how you eat.

Instead of focusing on specific nutrients or rigid quantities, ayurveda recommends a medley of wholesome, natural foods as the best and most palatable way of delivering a variety of nutrients to your hair. The key is to eat foods that are whole, natural, organic and fresh.

A balanced nutritious diet is definitely your first step towards hair health and longevity. But step two—eating correctly—is equally vital in order to give your body the ability to convert the foods you eat into a form your hair can assimilate and use to stay lustrous, vibrant and young.

Ayurveda for Chronic Ailments

Mon, 30 Apr 2012 02:45:23 -0400

According to World Health Organization report, 5.2 million out of 10.3 million deaths in India in 2004 were due to chronic ailments. Chronic diseases account for 53 per cent of all deaths in India. The report figures project that chronic ailments will claim 60 million lives in the next 10 years.

In the face of such a challenge to the health of Indian population, there is a growing desire among the people for alternate streams of medicine. In this scenario people in India are returning to their roots and Ayurveda has re-emerged as a saviour to many. It is now witnessing an unprecedented national and global acceptance, as an option for treatment of even serious health problems. The lesser-known face of this indigenous stream of medicine includes prescriptions and holistic treatment for chronic ailments ranging from asthma and arthritis to cancer. It is getting a lot of recognition and developing a huge following, with even the youth and urban population waking up to its possibilities. It is no longer the last resort people fall back on, after other streams of medicines fails them. There is a lot more to Ayurveda than its herbal concoctions and wellness massages. With growing research in this area and its proven therapeutic benefits it has come to mean more than sweet smelling herbal products and grandma’s remedies.

With each passing year chronic illnesses are striking people at younger and younger ages. This can be attributed to the current lifestyle with high pollution levels, stress and erratic sleep and diet patterns. Ayurveda not only treats the symptoms and the ailments in hand but also the root of the problem, which modern medicine usually does not target.

Prevention is a highpoint of Ayurveda. People have come to feel that mainstream medicines other than vaccines, do not have a strong preventive approach to it. Ayurveda is being taken seriously for not only management but also for prevention of ailments ranging from cancer to heart disease to diabetes.

Ayurvedic treatment unlike mainstream medicine is not just about providing medicine for the ailment but is also following the prescribed ayurvedic lifestyle to aid in the recovery. The incidence of chronic heart disease has increases tremendously over the years. This disease cannot be treated entirely with just medicines alone. It requires with it a prescription of lifestyle, diet and exercise which is an integral part of Ayurveda.

Also the fewer side effects of ayurvedic medicine compared to mainstream medicine Is an added advantage. In many cases the treatment for chronic ailments in mainstream medicine comes with side effects. In such cases Ayurveda is useful to combat the side effects and help reduce it. But it is best to inform your doctor if you use more than two or more streams of treatment in conjunction.

Ayurveda is gradually being validated through various clinical trials, and also its numerous success stories. It is slowly and successfully emerging as powerful therapeutic treatment for chronic ailments not only in India but globally too.

To know more about ayurvedic treatments for chronic illnesses visit http://www.ayushakti.com/

Read about some of the success stories at http://www.ayushakti.com/powerful_stories

Beat The Summer, The Ayurvedic Way

Tue, 17 Apr 2012 02:12:00 -0400

Summer is upon us, and thanks to global warming and the whole nine yards it feels hotter than ever. Thankfully for us, Ayurveda does contain the secrets to staying cool when the temperature is soaring everywhere. Summer is fire season, and when you learn what to eat and how to balance this element, you will feel cooler and more comfortable all season long.

Ayurveda describes summer as Pitta season. Pitta is made of fire and water, and its qualities are hot, sharp, oily, and light. During summer season you can reduce Pitta heat within your own body by eating a diet of cooling foods.

Favour Pitta reducing cooling foods. The Ayurvedic tastes of sweet, bitter and astringent all reduce Pitta, as these are found in light and easy to digest foods such as milk, mint and coriander herbal teas, and sweet fruits in season such as pears, apricots, grapes, plums, watermelon and sweet berries (not citrus fruits which aggravate Pitta).

Cold soups, such as cucumber soup, and salads are also good (but avoid salads at supper time). Avoid red meat, tomato, garlic, onions, and salty, spicy and sour tastes. Saffron is a very good spice to use in summer cooking as it calms Pitta. The heat of the summer seeps into our system saps away our strength and leaves us dehydrated, so keep your system hydrated with lots of water and juices, however; it is equally important to avoid caffeinated and carbonated drinks such as tea, coffee and colas. Also, steer clear of alcohol as it causes imbalance.

It’s important during every season to exercise regularly, but the type of exercise you do should be in balance with the time of year. During the heat of summer, it’s best to swim and do gentle yoga. If you prefer biking and running, try to save them for early morning or evening when the temperature is slightly cooler.

Below, I have laid down some simple rules to beat the oncoming summer:

Give yourself a full body massage before showering. Coconut oil is best.
Enjoy rose, sandalwood, jasmine or lavender essential oils to relax the senses.
Wear light coloured clothing, loose cotton, linen and silk (ex. White, blue, green) so air can circulate between your clothes and your skin.
Spend time in Nature, swim, retreat, and enjoy the moonlight.

Most people, however, will notice a real difference in their experience of summer heat when they take action to keep their internal cooling system working at its best. Stay cool with power of ayurveda.

Beautiful skin is beautiful you!

Wed, 11 Apr 2012 02:00:00 -0400

Beautiful glowing smooth skin is desirable by every woman and appreciated by every man. Genetically, we are wired to be attracted to people with clear skin and a glowing complexion because it’s a sign of good health. If the skin is not cared properly and neglected it suffers from premature aging and becomes dull and blemished.

Summer is not the time to relax your skin care routine when those killer ultra-violet rays can wreak havoc on exposed skin. The simple but effective Ayurvedic home remedies help you to attain a clear, healthy and glowing complexion. Ayurveda mentions many simple natural ways to maintain a healthy and glowing skin.

According to Ayurveda, healthy skin is the result of overall health condition of individuals. Medically skin is a sensory organ that responds to reflexes and is a protective system that shields the entire living body. Apart from perceiving sensations such as cold, warmth, heavy, light, rough, smooth, etc. skin is also an excretory agent for sweat. Here are a few tips for keeping your skin looking great in summer.

Minimize or avoid hot chilli peppers, spicy salsas, pickles, fermented foods, coffee and alcohol particularly if you are pitta predominant.
Fresh coconut water contains essential electrolytes and has a cooling effect on the body. So go nuts for coconuts.
Eat right! A healthy diet can work wonders for your skin.Stimulate your complexion’s collagen growth with foods rich in antioxidants, including leafy green vegetables, blueberries, cantaloupe and other melons. Salmon and egg whites are excellent sources of protein which helps nourish skin and repair damage.
Sweet juicy fruits such as pears, grapes, watermelon and mangoes both nourish our skin which faces a constant barrage of chemicals everyday from pollution to harsh chemically formulated products that strip the skin of its natural balance.
Milk is a cooling beverage that also supplies nutrients to your skin and helps to keep it from drying out. Drink a cup of milk every day, and also combine milk with ingredients like almond meal and rose water to make a Pitta-balancing skin cleanser.
Get plenty of quality rest each night. Keep your bedroom cool, dark and comfortable and sleep on cotton or linen sheets. Get to bed early and awaken early for clear healthy skin and sparkling eyes!
Take Skin Moisturizer to a New Level. Staying hydrated on the inside is important but you shouldn’t forget about taking care of your skin from the outside, as well. Cleansing and moisturizing are the most crucial to keeping your skin healthy and young. An oil massage is the best remedy for dry skin.
Do not go out during the hottest parts of the day, between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. If you exercise outdoors, do it early in the morning. Wear sunscreen, lip protection, sunglasses and a broad-brimmed hat when you go out-exposure to the sun can age skin very rapidly.
No need to cover up head to toe, but do consider a long-sleeved shirt, wide-brimmed hat, and sunglasses at the beach, at least for part of the day. Remember, tightly woven, darker fabrics are better sun blockers than lightweight, light-hued fabrics, or try clothing especially made for sun protection.

10 WOW Benefits of Yoga!!

Thu, 22 Mar 2012 02:42:35 -0400

Yoga is a way of life, an art of righteous living or an integrated system for the benefit of the body, mind and inner spirit. This art originated, was perfected and practiced in India thousands of years ago like ayurveda. Yoga and Ayurveda go hand in hand.

Yoga is founded on the belief of the progress of self awareness. Through the practice of yoga an individual can gain information about physical, emotional, mental and spiritual well being. In the course of knowledge and practice of yoga the awareness encourages the individual to adjust and change certain aspects of their nature and become more aware of your attuned life. The methods of yoga includes ethical disciplines, physical postures, breathing control and as well as meditation.

Here is a list of 10 great benefits of yoga:

1. The most important benefit of practicing Yoga is that it releases stress, tremendously! Yoga helps reduce the effects of stress on one’s body. One of the greatest benefits of Yoga is that it encourages relaxation and also, lowers the amount of cortisol in the body! Cortisol is body’s response to stress. Its primary function is to increase the blood sugar in the body!

2. Daily exercises of Yoga can help ease the aches and pains of the body. Several serious diseases have been cured by practicing certain asanas regularly! Meditation too acts as a relaxing agent on the body! Meditation and Yoga in tandem are the perfect blend for a healthy life!

3. Taking in deep and long breaths is what one learns in the daily practice of Yoga! Such breathing exercises manifest the better functioning of the Lungs, and set the body in tone to unwind! This is also one of the most powerful benefits of Yoga!

4. With continuous practice of Yoga, the body becomes more flexible. It helps in lengthening of the muscles, tendons and ligaments, thus providing the body with wee bit extra agility!

5. The Yoga Postures make use of all the muscles in one’s body and renders each of them with strength and power! It benefits every bone/muscle right from head to toe! Thus an overall development of the body is what is achieved!

6. Since Yoga helps in controlling the cotisol in one’s body, it aids in weight loss and fat burning as well!

7. It improves the body’s circulation! The benefits of Yoga can be seen in the long term! It is instrumental in controlling blood pressure and the pulse rate!

8. Even the gentlest styles of Yoga, help in lowering the heart rate and in an increase to one’s overall endurance capacity! It improves the amount of oxygen that goes inside the body!

9. Daily practice of Yoga instills greater coordination abilities, better memory skills, improved concentration skills and a general quickening of the ones senses!

10.Finally, practicing Yoga provides one with inner peace! Attaining daily targets and keeping up with the pace of the world, has rendered most of us incapable of realizing one’s inner peace! Yoga provides us with that!

Simple Remedies for Sore Throat

Fri, 09 Mar 2012 00:56:28 -0500

Seasonal changes play havoc with your health if you do not take precautions. Sore throat is the most common ailment that billions of people suffer during seasonal changes.

A sore throat is discomfort, pain or scratchiness in the throat. A sore throat often makes it painful to swallow. It is a common disorder of the throat and can occur at any time during any season, time and place. Virtually every child and adult gets a sore throat once or two times in a year. Sore throats can be caused by many things. Viruses may lead to a sore throat. Bacteria can also cause a sore throat, as can smoking, breathing polluted air, drinking alcohol, and hay fever and other allergies.

Home remedies and Ayurvedic treatments have proved to be of great help to people with sore throats. Most herbal remedies boost the natural ability of the body to combat infections

· Increase your liquid intake and make sure your house is humidified properly.

· Gargle with warm salt water (¼ teaspoon salt to ½ cup water) several times a day. It is an effective home remedy for sore throat.

· Drink a glass of hot water with 1 teaspoon lemon juice and some honey. You’ll feel better instantly. You can also drink a chamomile tea with lemon and honey added. It is also a good remedy for sore throat.

· Gargling with Chamomile tea also helps.

· Gargle with Sage plant. Take two teaspoons of fresh chopped leaves, and pour boiling water over them, allow them to steep for ten minutes. Strain and cool, and gargle with the warm liquid.

· Once you get rid of the sore throat, get rid of your toothbrush as it may give you the sore throat again.

Please note that most of the remedies include water so make sure that your drinking water is clean and boiled. Lots of ailments happen due to contaminated water.

Wonders of oil massage!

Wed, 29 Feb 2012 05:14:42 -0500

Have you ever wondered why our grandmothers and mothers always gave us countless oil massages when we were kids? There are many, even in the current generation, who strongly advise that we take oil an massage regularly. There are various reasons for this.

In Ayurveda, health is defined as an active state of wellness, a state in which you truly live, not merely exist. This active state of wellness, according to the ancient texts of Ayurveda, extends beyond the physical body to the mind, heart, senses and spirit. In this state you experience physical vitality, mental alertness, emotional bliss, sensual balance and spiritual awareness every day of your life.

Ayurveda is the ancient Indian system of healing that incorporates herbal and other medications, certain surgical techniques and also focuses on meditation, yoga and massage. Ayurvedic oil massage (abhanga) has several benefits. It pacifies kapha and vata, increase stamina, relieves fatigue and nourish all the body parts. Ayurveda recommends incorporating abhanga in your daily routine.

· According to ancient ayurvedic text, regular oil massage (abhyanga) delays the aging process. Your skin will look beautiful with regular massage. It will stay moisturized and nourished, and look supple and lustrous.

· Ayurvedic oil massage gives similar feeling as that of the regular meditation. After massage you will feel settled, serene and in a bliss like state.

· Ayurvedic oil massage loosens the deep seated toxins from joints and tissues and releases them into system, where they are eliminated. Besides this, the accumulated toxins from skin are also released to give you healthy and clearer skin.

· It is thought that Ayurvedic massage can help improve blood circulation in the body and therefore enhance the functioning of the body’s organs owing to improvement of the quality of blood supplied to them.

· There is also the belief that hot oil massage can help to enhance immunity for the person, making them better able to withstand infection and disease.

· Your joints will stay nourished and supple with regular performance of Abhyanga. The warm oil massage strengthens and lubricates the joints, making them more resilient to wear and tear.

Selection of oil is very important in ayurvedic massage. There is specific oil for specific conditions. Massage with aswagandhaadi oil gives effective result in muscle atrophy. Brahmi oil is good for sound sleep and Mahaamarichyaadi helps control itching. Mahanarayana oil is good to treat muscle pains and arthritic conditions. You can get the best oil suitable for you by consulting an ayurvedic physician.

Turmeric - The Yellow Wonder!

Wed, 22 Feb 2012 04:12:22 -0500

We cannot imagine our cooking without the Indian saffron in our kitchen or in our temples. Wondering what that is. Well, I am talking about haldi or turmeric. The health benefits of turmeric are experienced daily by millions of people around the globe, often without realising it. Many items in the Indian cuisine are simply incomplete without a dash of turmeric.

Turmeric is a spice used in Asian, African and Middle Eastern cookery. It is a daily staple in Indian, Pakistani, Bangladeshi, Sri Lankan, Malaysian and Indonesian cuisines. It’s also used as a food preservative and colouring agent worldwide, especially in mustard, pickles, cheeses and margarines.

Turmeric, a rhizome, is a member of the Zingiberaceae family. Its close relatives include cardamom, ginger and galangal, all of which have distinctive medical qualities of their own. It is cultivated mainly in India. The health benefits of turmeric have long been known, in addition to its culinary uses. It is well-known as an anti-inflammatory agent, that works as well as several pharmaceutical products, but without the side-effects. Recently turmeric has hit the headlines because of claims that curcumin, which is the main active constituent of turmeric, could help prevent the onset of dementia and Alzheimer’s disease. Further research is being done on this.

Ayurvedic Perspective

In Ayurveda, turmeric is called Haridra and it has been used for over 4,000 years to treat a variety of conditions. Turmeric is bitter, pungent and astringent in taste; light, dry, heating, Kapha pacifying and Pitta & Vata aggravating in excess use. Post digestion, it enters the blood, spleen, stomach and liver and works on all tissue elements (dhatus) in the body. Its main effects are on the digestive, circulatory and respiratory systems. It is stimulant, carminative, and antibacterial. Commonly used for indigestion, flatulence, poor circulation, cough, amenorrhea, pharyngitis, toothache, chest pain, blood urine, haemorrhage, skin disorders, diabetes, arthritis, anaemia, wounds and bruises. Turmeric poultices are often applied locally to relieve inflammation and pain

Additionally, it is used to strengthen the stomach and promote its action, and also as a tonic and blood purifier. Turmeric acts on the imbalanced processes of digestion, metabolism and nutrition (Jatarangi Level) and restores the normal function of the gastro intestinal system. It is also considered to have excellent natural antibiotic and antibacterial actions. It not only purifies the blood (Rakta dhatu shuddhi), but also warms it and stimulates formation of new blood tissue (Rakta dhatu vardhaka). The recommended dosage is 400 to 600 mg three times daily, depending on the condition of the individual.

Apart from the benefits mentioned above, there are a host of effective clinical application of this wonder spice. It is also important to note that turmeric will not give suggested therapeutic values and dosage levels in the body as used in the normal cooking process.

Ghee, Glorious Ghee!

Wed, 08 Feb 2012 06:34:00 -0500

Cannot do without Ghee? Join my club, no matter what I hear I do not believe consuming ghee is harmful. And I will explain why. Ghee has become a new fad in the West and for good reason; ghee is a healthier alternative to butter. Most Indian food is based on Ayurvedic principles, and is made to support the body nutritionally and spiritually. It includes six basic tastes: sweet, sour, salty, bitter, pungent and astringent. Rather than being based on calories and fat grams, Ayurvedic tradition looks at a food’s properties, its assimilation in the body, water levels, salt levels and characteristics of the individual person eating the food.

For starters ghee has been used in Indian cuisine for centuries together and our mothers and grandmothers swear by it. Recipes in India are traditionally not written down, but, rather passed down verbally from generation to generation. Ghee is used liberally in most of the Indian dishes and Ghee is nothing but clarified butter. Ghee is made when the milk solids are separated from the liquid, leaving a pure, clear, amber-coloured substance which has been used for 2,000 years in Ayurveda, or the ancient natural healing system of India.

· Ghee is lactose free and can be used as a healthy substitute for butter or cooking oils. It won’t turn rancid at room temperature like butter and retains its original flavour and freshness for up to a year - all without refrigeration.

· Better for people with cholesterol problem. It is said that ghee is lower in fat than butter which means that it’s a better choice for people who have problems with high cholesterol.

· Ghee has no salt

· It contains fat soluble vitamins such as A, D and E and hence can benefit vegetarians.

· Due to its fat content, it also absorbs the vitamins from the food it is added to, hence making the vitamins available to the body.

· Doesn’t burn easily. If you’re the kind of person who burns everything that you cook then you have probably burned butter in the past. You are not likely to have that problem with ghee.

· Easier to digest. Because there is less fat in ghee, it is easier for most people to digest than butter is.

· Longer shelf life. Ghee can be stored for a long period of time, longer than butter can, and it need not be refrigerated when it is stored.

· For infants and toddlers where they are in the phase of brain growth, ghee is the best fat to be added in their diet and is said to develop memory.

· Ghee benefits those who are lactose intolerant because ghee is lactose free.

· Ghee is believed to contain anti-cancer and anti-viral properties.

· Relief from burns. Many people still believe that you can put butter on burns to soothe them. Try it and you’ll quickly learn that butter keeps the heat in and hurts a whole heck of a lot. That’s not the case with ghee which can be used on burns.

· Ghee is low in the essential omega 3 fatty acid you need for good brain health so supplementation with omega 3’s is a needed for a healthy diet.

· Many people swear by the fact that ghee helps to promote a healthy glow to the skin from the inside out. Many find relief when using ghee on severely chapped lips.

Ghee is most notably said to stimulate the secretion of stomach acids to help with digestion, while other fats, such as butter and oils, slow down the digestive process and can sit heavy in the stomach. Although tests and research are still ongoing, ghee has been used in Indian medicinal practice to help with ulcers, constipation, and the promotion of healthy eyes and skin.

All said and done a dollop of ghee on hot rice is so totally mouth watering! So come join the Ghee club!!!

Healthy Tummy is a Healthy You

Wed, 01 Feb 2012 00:26:55 -0500

You may be wondering, “How did my digestive system get so messed up?” Well, the fact of the matter is that chronic health conditions do not just “happen”. Digestion and health are complementary to each other. A healthy, clean stomach is a sign of good health and vice versa. Sadly, a fast food diet and a technologically driven age with a sedentary lifestyle have eventually taken its toll and have made digestion a tiresome occupation for the stomach.

Healthy digestion assures that all of the nutrients taken in through eating are assimilated in a healthy manner into the cells that become you. In other words, you are what you digest! If your digestion is healthy, your body can produce healthy tissues. When digestion is weak, the tissues of your body such as muscle, blood and nerve become weak and susceptible to disease.

The symptoms of poor digestion include excessive gas, constipation, diarrhea, burping, burning, vomiting, indigestion, bloating and pain. In various forms, Western medicine has given names such as irritable bowel syndrome, ulcers, colitis and pancreatitis among many others to these abnormalities. Through the eyes of Ayurveda, the practitioner comes to an understanding of the cause by examining one’s lifestyle. Faulty eating practices is the number one culprit; poor food choices and bad food combining are next in line. Together, they make up the major causes of digestive diseases.

On the physical level, Ayurvedateaches us that the health of the digestive system is the single most important long term determinant of your health and well – being. Healthy digestion leads to a healthy life. Unhealthy digestion leads to an unhealthy life. It’s often that simple. So let’s have a look at what Ayurveda says about acidity:

Acidity is a medical condition in which the stomach witnesses excessive acidic secretion. It is often referred to as Amalpitta in ayurveda. Ama (toxin) is the main acidic perpetrator. In acidity, three kinds of doshic imbalances can occur due to the interventions of vata or kalpa or both of them. To keep a check on these imbalances, you can rely on ayurvedic treatment for acidity. Ulcer is a common symptom of acidity. The cause (Nidanam) of digestive disease lies in our actions. By indulging in our sense of taste in an unhealthy manner we upset the balance of the bodily doshas. Vata is upset by cold, dry and light foods such as raw vegetables. Pitta is upset by warm, oily, light foods such as deep fried vegetables and Kapha is upset by cold, heavy, moist foods such as cold ice cream and yogurt. In addition, taking foods in an improper way can be even more harmful than choosing inappropriate foods. Healthy food taken in the wrong way will still cause digestive problems.

Ayurveda has given many home remedies for acidity and gastritis. Which are very simple, very easy to prepare and yet effective. Some of the ayurvedic treatments for acidity can be used for bidding farewell to the problem forever.