Ayurvedamagazine

Category: AYURVEDA

  • Home Remedy to Relieve Migraine


    What you need

    Saffron – fine powder – 1 small pinch
    Ghee – 1 teaspoon

    How to prepare?

    Add the small pinch of saffron to a teaspoon of ghee and mix thoroughly.

    How to use?

    This fine mixture of saffron and ghee (clarified butter) is instilled into each nostril early in the morning, on empty stomach. (Nasya treatment)

    Better to do a facial massage with plain sesame oil or Maha Narayana Taila followed by mild hot fomentation with a towel dipped in hot water over the face, before instilling 2 drops of saffron-ghee into each nostril.
    Some people may expel mucous from nostrils after this treatment.
    As a measure of precaution, it is better to start with one drop to each nostril.
    This remedy can be continued for a period of two weeks.
    It is best to take up this home remedy after consulting with your Ayurvedic doctor.

    After instilling, it is better not to take bath or food for 20 minutes.

    Better to avoid this remedy during cloudy days.

  • Lehyam: The palatable ayurvedic medicine

    Medicines always leave the user with ‘please get away from me’ effect. Especially so, when they are full of chemicals like the one’s prescribed by allopathic doctors. However, the case is different when it’s come to ayurvedic treatment. Here, the medications given are mostly natural and free from side effects. Its preparations are done using recipes articulated by ayurvedic rishis of yore. One such medication is the Lehyam. Lehyams or electuaries also known as herbal jams may have bitter-tasting ingredients but since they are processed in sugar media they are usually like by all who uses it.

    What it is?

     “Sarkaraadeenaam paakaat
    krithah lihyate eti lehah.”

    In the manufacturing process of lehyam, medicinal ingredients are processed with sugar media like jaggery, sugar or sugar candy and changed into a semi-solid palatable form.

    Preparation

    These are semisolid in nature and use jaggery or sugar in its mixture. It is prepared by boiling with the prescribed liquid till the correct constituency is obtained. Later, spices and Ghee are added and stirred well. Once cooled, honey is also added. This means preserving the water extract of medicines in sugar media.

    There are four major components in the manufacturing of lehyam preparations. They are:

    A liquid part: kashayam (water extraction), juice, etc.

    • Sugar media (jaggery, sugar or sugar candy).
    • Medicines in the form of ground paste or fine powder.
    • Ghee, oil or honey as explained in the formula.

    The main procedure starts with dissolving the sugar media in the liquid part (water extraction or juice, as explained) and concentrating further in low temperature until it attains ‘paka’ (stage at which this concentrated semi-liquid will form into  a thread when pressed between the thumb and index finger and released). It is then added with the fine powder, ghee and oil. Proper mixing is essential to get the semi-solid form. Honey is added once the mixture is cooled. It is stirred further to get the appropriate semi- solid form.

    Usage

    There are many lehyam preparations used to cure various ailments such as cough, asthma, degenerative diseases, arthritis and skin diseases. The normal prescribed dosage of lehyam for an adult is 10 g to 15 g. In rasayana chikitsa (rejuvenative therapy), however, the dosage may increase considerably.

    Lehyam, avaleha, prasam and gulam are the very familiar forms of medicines processed with sugar media. Aswagandhaadi Lehyam, Chyavanaprasam and Sathavarigulam are examples of such preparations which are widely used in Ayurvedic medical practice.

    In Ayurveda there are many lehyam formulations having  rejuvenative properties (rasayana guna). Agasthya Rasayanam, Brahma Rasayanam and Chyavanaprasam are some of the well-known Rasayana preparations.

    People often mistake all lehyam preparations for rasayana and vice-versa. In fact, a rasayana drug can be administrated not only in lehyam form but also in other forms like ghee and pills. Even single drugs like Terminalia chebula (hareethaki), ginger and pippali (Piper longum) are used as rejuvenative drugs with proper rejuvenative procedure (rasayana vidhi).

  • Ayurveda for Kids *Dr. Lakshmi Anoop

    Ayurveda is an ancient, time-tested style of holistic medicine that supports one in allowing better health and happiness into life. “Ayur” – life or longevity and “Veda” – knowledge; so Ayurveda is the “Knowledge of Life or Longevity”. As one applies the principles of Ayurveda in his day-to-day life, he can live a disease free, long life. The prime objective of Ayurveda is to prevent dis-ease. As children are the building blocks of the society, incorporating Ayurveda principles in their lives will help enhance their physical and mental health, thereby promoting a healthy and disease free society.

    The physical and mental development during childhood period forms the foundation of the rest of his / her life. Diet, Lifestyle and Behavior are very important to maintain Child’s mental and physical health.

    DIET

    Five Main Rules of food intake –

    1. Take timely meals in proper quantity, preferably freshly prepared and warm
    2. Concentrate on food while eating and eat food at pace. Avoid watching television, talking or laughing during meal
    3. Eat in relaxed condition, be seated
    4. Don´t eat too slow or too fast
    5. Avoid fasting and overeating

     Foods for health and promoting growth in children –

    1.  Recommended fats – Ghee and olive oil.
    2. Recommended sugar includes organic raw sugar, honey, rock sugar, and jaggery.
    3. Excess of anything, even though good for health is not advisable.
    4. Recommended dairy products – Milk, paneer, freshly made curd and buttermilk.
    5. Recommended Nuts and Dry fruits – Soaked raisins, almonds and walnuts.
    6. Recommended Spices – Turmeric, pepper, cumin enhance digestion.
    7. Reduce junk food or canned, frozen or packaged foods, carbonated drinks.

    LIFESTYLE                                                                                                                                      

    Ayurveda daily routine – better health 24 hours a day –

     

    From bedtime to bedtime there is a full day of simple Ayurvedic activities that promote health and wellbeing. Introduce a child to these at an early age and they can become habits for life.

     

    1. Ayurveda recommends an early bird lifestyle – Waking up at sunrise (5 – 6 am)
    2. Face/nose/mouth wash – Wash your face and your eyes with water. Scrape your tongue with a tongue scraper and gargle mouth with sesame oil.
    3. Exercise – Early morning exercise removes stagnation in the body and mind and allows your energy to flow. Walking / pranayama (breathing exercises)/ yoga – 30 minutes.
    4. Self-Massage – Massage keeps us strong and is beneficial for body and mind. Ayurveda recommends that you massage yourself with a bit of warm oil for about 5 minutes is sufficient. Massage the scalp, forehead, hands and feet.
    5. Bath – Daily bath helps maintain personal hygiene and gives a feeling of freshness to start the new day.
    6. Eat your breakfast – Eat before 8 am. Eat moderate breakfast, preferably cooked food and not sandwich or biscuit daily.
    7. School/ Office – Do all work mindfully and at pace, concentrate on what you do.
    8. Midday lunch – It should be the only heaviest / main meal of the day– Eat between 12.30 – 1.30 pm.
    9. Short nap can be taken if needed after lunch for 15 – 20 min. Do not sleep, but a short nap is no harm.
    10. Meditation – In the evening back home, after refreshing, sit still in a silent area and focus on your breath.
    11. Evening hours – Use less TV and computer, utilize time for more productive work or studies or sports.
    12. Dinner – Dinner is recommended to be taken between 7 and 8 pm and should be lighter. Do not go to bed or watch TV or Computer immediately after dinner. Walk few steps inside the house after dinner to enable digestion.
    13. Sleep – Go to sleep early, between 9 – 10 pm.

    BEHAVIOR                                                                                                                                          

    Behavior also plays an important role in children’s health. Because children are in the growing, stage of life, it’s especially important that they see only nurturing television shows and movies. Watching violent entertainment or spending time with friends who are often angry or jealous can create impurities in the mental channels. This results in a decrease in mental acuity and creativity. AcaharaRasayana (Behaviouralrasayana) comprises of health-promoting behavior.Some behavioral Rasayanasare Regular Meditation, Be sweet spoken, kind, gentle, calm, truthful, loving, compassionate, polite, well-mannered, clean, optimistic, persevering, Respect parents, teachers and elders, Keep the company of good friends, Always follow your daily routine.

     Present day problems of children

    Today most children are affected with learning difficulties; low self-esteem and behavioral problems like impulsiveness, restlessness and hyperactivity, as well as inattentiveness are due to diet, lifestyle and behavior. Ayurveda helps in treatment and prevention of the present day problems, the natural way. Mental performance can be expanded to its full potential with proper nutrition, quality sleep and the balanced wisdom of herbs (MedhyaRasayana’s – For rejuvenation of the mind) that can strengthen the immune system, nourish the mind and support the health of children of all ages in a safe and holistic manner.

    Need of Ayurvedic Awareness

    In our modern world, we blindly believe that vaccinations and antibiotics are beneficial for prevention and treatment of diseases. Of course, at times such things can be necessary. But too often it can be substituted with Ayurvedic advises which is a safe and natural way to improve the function of the immune system thereby increasing disease resistance. Ayurveda has much to offer in the way of gentle and effective health care and disease prevention for children through diet and lifestyle, as well as the use of medicinal herbs and spices.

     

    “The object of teaching is to enable a child to get along without his teacher.” This quote has a connection to Ayurveda. So let’s educate growing children about the benefits of Ayurveda for a healthy future.

     

    * Ayurveda Physician at Chakrapani Ayurveda Clinic & Research Centre, Jaipur, India

  • Traditional Medicine (TM) in South East Asia and its contemporary applications

    by Prof. G. G. Gangadharan, Ayurvedacharya, F.A.I.P. (USA), Ph.D., MoM (Canada)

    Healthcare globally is passing through a period of transition and a search is on for the right model of healthcare to counter the mounting health challenges of twenty-first century. Numerous expert committees and policy documents have unequivocally opined that TM can play a significant role in bringing about a positive change in the healthcare delivery systems of the world.
    2

    Health- seeking behavior studies from across the world are increasingly pointing to the fact that the future of medicine shall be pluralistic. There is, therefore, a growing need to revitalize and promote TM for its contemporary relevance with the spirit of a dispassionate scientific enquiry. It is, however, important to recognize that TM is not merely meant to be used as an inventory for prospecting new molecules or extracts, but it is also to be explored for its sophisticated theory of homeostasis and bio-regulation.

    It can be argued that one of the reasons why modern science has not come up with effective solutions for chronic diseases or for positive health has been its misplaced focus on symptoms rather than the root cause. A reductionist approach to research has led to discovery of drugs which, while alleviating disease, produce adverse side effects. It appears that some course corrections in this research strategy are called for.

    The cost and time for bringing a drug to the market have increased, bordering around unviable proportions, and the pipeline of new molecules in pharmaceutical research is dwindling. It is believed by many that we are coming to the end of the era of blockbuster drugs and the beginning of the era of blockbuster mechanisms.

  • Analysis of the Panchamahabhutha Theory in Ayurveda

    “ There should be some factors in the surroundings that make substances audible, tactile, visible, tastable and smelled. These factors are considered to be the Five Elements or Five Mahabhuthas, responsible for the above properties of substances. “

    The focus of this article will be to give an idea on the working principle of Ayurveda and make the reader understand what are Panchamahabhutas (Five great elements) and how we apply this theory in Ayurveda.

    Knowledge and means to attain knowledge:

    The obtained information analyzed and applied skillfully for a purpose is called Knowledge. Information is the collection of data from our surroundings or environment, and how do we get information? Or what is the way to understand the environment? What are the tools needed to collect information from the environment.

    The tools for understanding the environment or gathering of information from the environment are the 5 senses. We see, hear, touch, taste, and smell, to get information from the environment. Do we have another choice? No, we have our 5 senses as our tools to gather information. These five senses are known as the 5 Indriyas .

    1. Shravana Indriya (Ears) to perceive information by hearing
    2. Sparshana Indriya(Skin) to perceive information by touching
    3. Darshana Indriya(Eyes) to perceive information by seeing
    4. Rasana Indriya(Tongue) to perceive information by taste
    5. Ghrana Indriya(Nose) to perceive information by smell

    The information that we receive through this 5 indriyas, we can call direct information . This way of achieving information is known as prathyaksha (Through senses) . This information that we receive from prathyaksha is further analyzed , with the help of manas or mind . This method of analysis and inference is anumana . So the 5 indriyas are the means to achieve prathyaksha knowledge, and Manas is responsible to achieve anumana knowledge. Therefore manas is considered the sixth indriya .

    In summary, I say that the information is available in the environment in the form of sound, touch, sight, taste and smell. And means to achieve these information are prathyaksha with 5 indriyas and anumana with the 6th indriya manas .

    Now the question arises:

    What are the factors that are responsible for Sound,Touch, Sight, Taste and Smell in this area?

    There should be some factors in the surroundings that make substances audible, tactile, visible, tastable and smelled. These factors are considered to be the Five elements or Five mahabhuthas, responsible for the above properties of substances.

    1. Akasha is the factor that makes a matter audible
    2. Vayu is the factor that makes a matter tactile
    3. Agni is the factor that makes a matter visible
    4. Jala is the factor that makes a matter tastable
    5. Prithvi is the factor makes a matter smelled

    The emergence of these panchamahabhuthas during the formation of the Universe, as we know from an unknown source (avyaktha ) . The formation of the universe is a very vast topic and out of scope for this discussion.1

    I would not call these pnachamahabhuthas as Space, Air, Fire, Water and Earth because of the following reason. These mahabhuthas in their subtle form are not visible for the naked eyes and this subtle form is called as nithya rupa and which undergoes different permutation and combinations to form the macroscopic matter called anithya rupa . Anithya rupa can be destroyed and brought back to nithya rupa while nithya rupa is indestructible . Out of the Five mahabhuthas all exist in both forms except akasha. Akasha has only one form and its is nithya rupa. These different mahabhuthas combine together and give rise to different matters. Earth is formed of all elements with dominance in prithvi mahabhutha (it can be considered as anithya rupa of prithvi mahabhutha) , Water is the anithya rupa of jala mahabhutha and so on. Nithya rupa of panchamahabhuthas are in paramanu (atomic) state .

    Each paramanu state of mahabhutha contains all the other, they exist in the form of combinations that are known as pancheekarana . Each of the five elements is divided into two halves and each half is further split into four parts. The four parts are now filled with other four elements. Akasha paramanu has ½ Akasha+ 1/8 prithvi . Likewise, it goes to the other elements. This process is referred to as the pancheekarana of subtle elements. Several permutations and combinations of these Mahabhuthas lead to the formation of all living and non-living things that we perceive around us in this world. This means that all the things around us are made from panchamahabhuthas .

    As we know that neurons are the structural and functional unit of the nervous system, these Panchamahabhutas are the structural and functional unit of all living and non-living things we touch, see, taste, smell and hear.

    In short: According to the theory of panchamahabhutha all living and non-living, natural and artificial things in this world are formed from the five elements. Hence the human body is also made up of panchamahabhuthas .

    Panchamahabhutha and Ayurveda:

    Now we know that our body is made like all other substances from panchamahabhutha. Anything made of Panchamahabhutha is called bhouthika – that is, physical. This means that our bhouthika body is nourished by the bhouthika food. Our body as well as the food or drugs that we take are made of panchamahabhuthas. Improper intake of food or improper behaviors can cause disturbances in mahabhuthas and cause disease in bhouthika body. Then we use the corresponding bhouthika drugs to compensate for the bhouthika body.

    When a person is sick, then we should analyze what the problem is in his panchamahabhuthas , then we should give him the medicine that contains the right amount of panchamahabhuthas for his present condition.

    The next question that should be considered:

    How can we know that there is an imbalance of mahabhuthas in the body?

    Moreover, how can we analyze the mahabhuthas in a drug or a plant?

    Five bhuthas (elements) can be categorized in to 3, in order to study and analyze the function of the body.

    Akasha + Vayu = Vata

    Agni = Pitta

    Jala + Prithvi = Kapha

    These three are considered the physiological aspect of the human body and are known as doshas , which means three doshas. The Vata dosha is : akasha and vayu are predominant. If there is a quantitative and qualitative increase in the akasha and vayu – mahabhuthas in a specific body , then Vata dosha is aggravated in this body, which in turn shows the signs of increased Vata. And decrease in the same mahabhuthas tends to reduce Vata . The same principle is valid for Pitta and Kapha.

    Therefore, it’s our goal to find the right medicine or treatment that can bring this into balance. For example, in the increase of Vata we should find a drug with the dominance of jala , prithvi or agni or their combination. We should not take those drugs with predominance in akasha and vayu , because Vata is aggravated by the increase in akasha and vayu .

    How can we know the existence of bhuthas in a particular plant? To get to know the effect of a plant or a medicine, In Ayurveda we analyze the 4 main characteristics of plants.

    Drugs are analyzed by the following properties.

    Rasa——- taste

    Veerya——- potency

    Vipaka ——– property after digestion

    Prabhava——- Special property

    There are six types of Rasas , and each has its predominant mahabhutha .

    Madhura —–sweet——– Prithvi + Jala

    Amla———– sour———- Agni+ Prithvi

    Lavana——– salty———- Jala + Agni

    Tiktha——— bitter——— Akasha + Vayu

    Katu———– pungent——— Agni+ Vayu

    Kashaya—— astringent —Prithvi + Vayu

    From the above table we see that the first three rasa are formed from the dominance of two bhuthas of Prithvi , Jala or Agni . Therefore, these rasas have the ability to reduce the enhanced Vata . There are plants with madhura , amla or lavana rasa , which are good medicines for Vata problems. This is just the basic idea of the principle of treatment in Ayurveda. Treatment relies on a lot more other factors.

    Basic principle in therapy :

    Disharmony in mahabhuthas can be understood by the imbalance in tridoshas and the appropriate drug for therapy (to attain the equilibrium) is selected according to the properties like rasa.

    Example :

    Madhura rasa made of prithvi and jala bhutha
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    1. Decreases the aggravated Vata ( Akasha and Vayu predominant)

    2. Decreases the aggravated Pitta (Agni predominant)

    3. Aggravates Kapha (Prithvi and Jala predominant)

    The above mentioned is only one aspect of Ayurveda Treatment principles. Lots of other things like dhathus, malas, agni, srothas etc are to be considered to decide the shodhana or shamana Treatment.

    To conclude:

    According to Aurveda, equilibrium of doshas, dhathus, mala and agni along with intact soul, sense organs and mind is said to be health.

    Health is a state of complete physical, mental and social well-being and not merely the absence of disease or infirmity……..WHO

  • There is no running away from old age;live it out Wholesomely with balanced food and exercise

    “ “All the world’s a stage, And all the men and women merely players: They have their exits and their entrances; And one man in his time plays many parts, His acts being seven ages. At first the infant, Mewling and puking in the nurse’s arms. Then the whining school-boy, with his satchel And shining morning face, creeping like snail Unwillingly to school. And then the lover, Sighing like furnace, with a woeful ballad Made to his mistress’ eyebrow. Then a soldier, Full of strange oaths, and bearded like the pard, Jealous in honor, sudden and quick in quarrel, Seeking the bubble reputation Even in the cannon’s mouth. And then the justice, In fair round belly with good capon lined, With eyes severe and beard of formal cut, Full of wise saws and moderna instances; And so he plays his part. The sixth age shifts Into the lean and slipper’d pantaloon, With spectacles on nose and pouch on side, His youthful hose, well saved, a world too wide For his shrunk shank; and his big manly voice, Turning again toward childish treble, pipes And whistles in his sound. Last scene of all, That ends this strange eventful history, Is second childishness and mere oblivion, Sans teeth, sans eyes, sans tast sans everything.” “

    In the treatment of MS that we make custom made oils depending upon the constitution and symptomatology. Most of the herbal oils which are used for MS are custom made and are potentiated several times.

    Method

    The numerous ingredients are used for preparing the Herbal oil for Shirovasthi. Fresh herbal extracts are abundantly used in preparing these oils.

    Ingredients: Sesame oil as the base oil. Water: added 4 – 8 times the oil. Herbal paste: ¼ the quantity of oil. Herbal decoction: 2 times that of oil.

    Untitled-23Fresh Herbal extracts: 2 to 8 times the quantity of oil. These ingredients are heated on mild fire in a traditional vessel made up of 5 metal alloy (Varp). The contents are slowly stirred continuously during the entire process to ensure the uniform absorption of heat. When the herbal paste has reached a stage, which is called as “mrudu paka” (soft consistency – where there is percolated water molecules), the oil is filtered. This stage stays only for a few minutes in the entire process, so oil needs to be filtered carefully within this short span of time. The whole process of preparing the oil takes around 12-15 days, during which the temperature of the oil is always kept at 75-80 degree Celsius.

    The medicated oils are highly seasoned and concentrated herbal oils. The repeated addition of herbal extract and herbal decoctions (11 times) makes the oil 11 times potentiated than the normal oil.

    While treating MS or other complex disorder that we as Ayurveda physicians face multitude of difficulties. Right from propagating a methodology of treatment, making own medicines and to have a strict control on making the medicine and the routine follow up of patients during and after treatment is required. During which time we used to collect data like the MRI and other lab reports for diagnostic, prognostic and for a future research purpose. Separate interviews in the form of testimonials from the patient at different stages of treatment to evaluate improvement. Moreover we did not have a criteria and standards for any of the above mentioned practical things.

    But should we wallow in despondence during old age?

    Definitely not, for there are ways to live out a more or less comfortable life in the declining years. Food habit and exercise are keys to maintaining good health during the autumn of one’s life.

    There is nothing like senility if one can entertain good humor, balanced food and a dose of essential exercise.

    Regarding intake of food, one should acknowledge the fact that at the age of 39 onwards, old age has set in, even though we consider ourselves as senior citizens only at the age of 60, when shashtiabdapoorthy (attainment of sixty) is observed.

    Food provides physical and mental energy and good nourishment is essential during the advanced years. By providing good nourishment one is enabled to keep up youth even by the elderly.

    The dictum should be: good, nourishing food keeps the doctor away.

    At the same time there is an overwhelming need for exercise to offset the excess energy absorbed by the body. The reality is that with the setting in of old age, there is an increasing lethargy for undertaking physical exercise. Wake up from this lethargy and walk off to vibrancy.

    At least from the age of 50, one should have a morning walk for at least half an hour. Those who do not do exercise should see to it that they consume food with low calorie value. Otherwise the excess calorie consumed by the person would unsettle health condition considerably.

    The excess energy is converted into fat by the body and this condition leads to obesity. Some people complain that body girth increases even as there is small quantity of intake of food. The truth is, it is not the quantity of food that is consumed that is important, but the quality of it. The small quantity of food that is eaten has high calorie value, which if not exercised out, converts itself into fat.

    One vada gives a calorie value of 270, but a dosa provides only a calorie value of 85. Which means eating one vada is equivalent to eating three dosas as far as calorie value is concerned. Without imbibing this fact, we consume three dosas along with one vada.

    What happens when we eat a lot of food having high calorie value? We invite in grave diseased conditions with diabetes, high blood pressure and cholesterol.

    But we don’t have to be scared of these diseases provided we resort to a good, balanced protocol of food intake. Grains, grams and beans, leafy varieties and other vegetables having good fibre content should be relished.

    This pattern of eating would reduce cholesterol and solve the problem of constipation.

    Good quantity of calcium is essential for the old-aged, otherwise there is the problem of weakening of the bones.

    It is proved that milk contains good quantity of calcium and so it is better to have a glass of mildly- hot milk before going to bed.This would give the person good sleep and solve the problem of calcium deficiency.

    Drinking water profusely before and after food would be fine for the kidneys. Curd-milk, juice of fruits and vegetables would be salubrious.

    The role of anti-oxidants in the food array is very important. Food items with anti-oxidants even keep off cancer.

    Mangoes, orange, cherry, papaya, strawberry, grapes, onions, carrot, leafy items, mushroom, germinated pulses, and ocean fish are good sources for anti-oxidants.

    The anti-oxidants through various sources supply vitamins and minerals enabling the old -aged to glow with good skin and buoyant with vibrancy like a youth.

  • Contributions of Susruta, the Father of Indian Surgery

    The existence of Ayurveda has been recognized since time immemorial. Vivid descriptions about this form of medicine are seen in Rig Veda and Atharva Veda. It is believed that Lord Brahma was the originator of Ayurveda, the Science of Life, which had two different schools i.e. the Atreya School, which deals with Kayachikitsa (General Medicine) and the Dhanwantari School ,which deals with Shalya (surgery). Susruta was regarded as one of the most intelligent disciples of Divodas Dhanwantari, therefore, he preached his scientific knowledge of Shalya to his disciples, particularly addressing to Susruta. There is difference of opinion among scholars about the age in which Susruta lived. Some scholars put him quite early in BC while others take him in the Medical Period.

    The most outstanding performances of Indian surgery, however, were in the domains of transplantation of organs, plastic surgery, Lithotomy, Laparotomy etc.

    There had been several instances where the severed parts of the body were transplanted with great success. Implantation of artificial metal leg, restoration of broken teeth, eye- enucleating and corneal grafting to restore vision etc. were carried out by Indian surgeons in the past. Moreover, plastic surgery was on high peak during the ancient era. Susruta, the father of Indian surgery, has described the scientific technique of Rhinoplasty and Otoplasty (repairing of severed nose and lobes of the ear) in his Treatise of Susruta Samhita. It is evidently true that modern surgery throughout the world has got inspiration from the ancient surgery of Susruta and it has been quoted by Hershberg of Germany that ‘our entire knowledge of plastic surgery took a new turn when these surgical techniques of India became known to us.”

    However it indicates that Indian surgeons were highly trained and proficient in performing the major and complicated surgeries. In brief, these contributions by Susruta have inspired the scientists of the 20th century to realise the significance of transplantation as well as plastic surgery practices in the 6th century BC or even before.

    Thus the objective and its importance to deal with the present object is to trace the most valuable 4hidden treasures of surgery practised in the past. An attempt will also be made to investigate the valuable materials of immense importance pertaining to surgical literature available in Vedic and Post- Vedic periods. Indians believe the science of Indian medicine to be divine as Lord Brahma was the patron of the leading art, Ayurveda. It has always been a matter of speculation how the ancient surgeons ever carried out major surgeries successfully in the absence of anaesthesia, haemostatics, antiseptics and antibiotics. However, knowledge of anatomy was requisite to Indian surgeons as evidenced by the concept of Marmas (Vital points) 107 in number mentioned by Susruta based on regional anatomy so critical to any intelligent surgeon and this needs further exploration. Indian surgeons were quite aware of the infections following surgical operations and they accorded top priority to prevent infections in such cases. It was surprising how they used to prevent and manage the infection in the absence of antiseptics and antibiotics. It is to be further highlighted and explored with regard to the ways and means adopted by the surgeons in the old days of Susruta. Shalya is the name applied to the art of surgery in Ayurveda. The foreign bodies of all kinds were denoted ‘shalya’. But it specially refers to the arrow which was the commonest and the most dangerous foreign body causing wounds and requiring immediate surgical interference during the Aryan invaders. Thus in Rig Veda, amputation of legs and fitting with artificial metal limbs, extraction of arrow from the wounds, corneal grafting to restore vision etc. have been elaborately described. The clinical approach and major surgical operations of certain serious abdominal diseases i.e. peptic ulcers, perforations etc. mentioned by Susruta have provided a new light to modern surgery. Moreover, Susruta has described various means of blood-letting (Rakta Moksha) employing several methods for the treatment of critical diseases, i.e. blood pressure, sciatica and several nervous disorders. It was most common during the ancient era and more than 50% of the diseases were cured by Siravedha (venesection), cupping and application of leeches which have been quoted in the ancient book of surgery- Susruta Samhita.

    Similarly, Agnikarma (cauterisation) was considered even more efficacious than caustic. It was mostly employed to eradicate tumors, fistula, haemorrhoids, elephantiasis and several nervous disorders and requires further explanation in view of modern light.

    The most exciting surgery of transplantation of organs was highly prevalent and practised in the past. Transplantation of head, kidney and other vital organs were successfully carried out in the past by Indian surgeons, Aswini brothers and others. However, the ancient technique, methodology and immunesuppressive agents to prevent the rejection of transplanted organs etc. need further explanation and investigation available in the Vedic and Post- Vedic periods in Sutra form. In addition to the above noted details, the scientific approach to perform Rhinoplasty and Otoplasty in the 6th century BC will be explored and highlighted considering the significance and importance of the subject in modern perspective.

    Susruta has emphasised on the clinical application of Kshara- Sutra in patients suffering from fistula, haemorrhoids with great success. Even at present, alkali prepared threads (Kshara Sutra) are widely used by the Indian surgeons. The details of the technique as well as the scientific approach need to be studied further as it is less time consuming compared to modern surgery.

    The fundamental concepts and contribution of Susruta on the management of fractures and dislocations have covered all aspects in such a scientific way that even modern surgery has adopted almost the same principles without much alteration. It does indicate that Indian surgeons in the past had supremacy pertaining to orthopaedic surgery. The emphasis will be given on most of the outstanding contributions of Susruta on ancient surgery practised in the past

  • Ayurveda- Prevailing Myths and Prejudices

    “ Ayurveda- “The Indian System of Medicine” was developed, polished and enriched by knowledge accrued from centuries. With a rich history filled with highs and lows over the years, Ayurveda, as a medical system, is gaining a lot of ground today in the modern scientific world. However, the myths and prejudices pertaining to the Ayurvedic system of medicine precede the actual facts. Many ideas about Ayurveda in the common man’s mind are far from reality. Let’s flash a light into a few of them. “

    Ayurveda – It’s slow and meant for Old age?

    mytPeople believe that Ayurvedic treatments are meant for those who have time at their discretion. In Ayurvedic terms, either the medicines directly act on the disease, or it helps support the body to cure the disease by itself by balancing the tridoshas (Vata, Pitta and Kapha). Both are needed in the treatment of diseases. The medicines that belong to the first category are usually very potent and fast acting, while the action of the medicines in the latter group depends on the chronicity of the disease. Another important cause for the slow action is the lack of availability of genuine medicines. Many of the herbs, animal products and minerals mentioned in classics are not easily available now. This leads to adulterants and substitutes being used in place of the original raw- materials. Many of the available herbal drugs are either cultivated using chemical fertilizers or procured from contaminated areas. In addition to all these, there are problems associated with the preparation of the medicines as well. In the old days, the vaidyas prepared their own medicines or the patients prepared them on the instruction of the vaidya. The preparation of Ayurvedic medicines, which is analogous to cooking in some respects, has now changed drastically with medicines being manufactured on a commercial scale. Inevitably, the medicines available in the market today differ from those prepared by old school, similar to how tinned food differs from home- made food. Ayurveda classifies diseases into four categories – easily curable (Sukha sadhya), difficult to cure (Krichra sadhya), that can be controlled but not cured (Yapya) and that cannot be cured (Anupakrama). In case of an easilycurable condition, if a medicine prepared using original raw- materials in the right method is administered in the right way, the outcome will never be slow. A compromise on any of these factors compromises the effect of the medicine as well.

    Ayurveda –Oh it’s the herbal thing!!

    Ayurveda is widely considered as herbal medicine. This is, however, not true since in many cases animalproducts and minerals are also used along with herbs. The animal products include honey, milk and milk products, meat of animals, urine of animals, horns of deer, elephant tusk, gall stones of cow, shells of marine organisms like conch shell etc. The mineral medicine category include metals like mercury, gold, silver, cop-per, iron, lead, tin, zinc and more than thirty minerals. The mineral medicines are required in very small dose, are palatable and more potent when compared to herbal medicine.

    Ayurvedic medicines- “safe and secure drugs”

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    Ayurvedic medicines are widely misused and problems pertaining to self medication are widespread. The adverse effects and contra-indications of Ayurvedic medicines are very well-explained in the classical literature of Ayurveda. Some medicines used in Ayurveda are highly toxic and its use is advised only for a very short duration and that too in a very small dosage. It include plants like Aconitum ferox and Strychnos nux vomica, animal products like snake venom and minerals like mercury, lead and arsenic compounds. If the preparation and use of the medicine is not done in the correct way, it will result in toxicity. The Ancient Vaidyas were well aware of the toxic nature of these medicines. Toxic effects caused by these medicines, if not used after proper pharmaceutical processing as per Ayurvedic classics (asuddha seva doshas), are also described along with its therapeutic use. These facts are rightly implied in the quote “Matrayaa bhakshitam kshwedam amrutham bhavathi priyae” (toxin taken in the specific dose acts as nectar). Such medicines must be used only under strict medical supervision.

    Ayurveda medicines – Oh God it’s full of food restrictions

    The dietary restrictions advised by the doctors is a major reason for many people avoiding ayurvedic medicines. The common misconception is that the regulations are for medicines. This leads to instances such as people stopping medicines for 2 or 3 days to eat whatever they like. But in reality a majority of the dietary regulations advised by the doctor are not for the medicine, but for the disease. Only highly- potent drugs that have some sort of toxicity need dietary restrictions for medicines. All of us are familiar with the saying “What we eat is what we are”. As per the concepts of Ayurveda, certain dietary factors that support the manifestation of diseases must be avoided irrespective of medications. Another important aspect of Ayurvedic treatment is protecting the digestive capacity (Jathara agni). The first thing that a physician does while examining a patient is to evaluate digestive capacity. When digestion is weak, which is often the case, consumption of anything that is difficult to digest must be avoided, the failure of which makes the patient weak. If digestion becomes normal, all such dietary regulations can be avoided.

    Ayurveda – Become Veggie???

    Ayurveda never preaches vegetarianism. The ancient classics of Ayurveda such as Charaka Samhita give detailed explanation about use of non- vegetarian diet. It includes fish, meat of birds and animals, and eggs of different birds. It is considered as the best diet for strengthening the body. Different types of non -vegetarian food are indicated in different conditions. Beef is considered inferior among meat category and among fishes, prawns are considered inferior. But even these two are suggested in certain diseased conditions.

    Why go for surgery, go for Ayurveda

    There is a common impression that Ayurveda is devoid of surgical procedures and in a few conditions surgery can be avoided by Ayurvedic treatment. But it is not always possible. If an Ayurveda Physician advises the patient to go for a surgery, many people consider it as a failure of Ayurveda treatment. Ayurveda also mentions diseases where surgery is necessary. As of now only a few surgical procedures are practiced by Ayurvedic surgeons. Acharya Susrutha is considered as the father of Surgery and Susrutha Samhitha mainly deals with surgical treatment. Susrutha pioneered cadaveric dissection for the study of anatomy. Shalyatantra is the branch of Ayurveda that deals with surgery and it enjoyed high prestige up to the time of Jeevaka, the personal Physician of Buddha. But surgery lost this prime status within a few centuries after the Buddha. Shortly after the period of Vagbhata, the author of Ashtanga Hridaya, the use of Lancet was discouraged and anatomy and surgery fell into disuse and became lost sciences. During this period the very touch of a corpse was thought to bring contamination to sacred persons. Many surgical procedures disappeared from the mainstream of Ayurvedic practice and survived in the hands of traditional practitioners. Rhinoplasty (nose repair surgery) pioneered by Susrutha, which later won international recognition, is India’s contribution to Plastic surgery. Two British Surgeons James Findlay and Thomas Cruso in 1794 witnessed the nose repair surgery of a Maharashtra bullock- cart driver who served in the English Army. This caught the attention of Joseph Corpue, FRCS, an English Surgeon in London, and inspired him to perform a rhinoplasty for the first time in Europe.

    Ayurveda – what’s your say on Alcohol?

    Alcohol has been part of human race since time immemorial. Use of alcohol in small quantities is considered beneficial for health like nectar and if in excess quantities it acts like poison. It is thus clear that misuse of alcohol is harmful to health. Three main types of alcoholic preparations are explained in Ayurvedic classics – those prepared from grains, grapes and sugar. The preparations are modified according to the disease condition to benefit the patient. The fermented alcoholic products like arishtas and aasavas are used as medicines. It is prepared out of plants having medicinal properties.

    Panchakarma – delivered in packages…

    Now-a-days panchakarma therapies are available in many centers. Even the word panchakarma is not understood in the correct sense. Mainly procedures that include oil application and sudation processes are done under the label of panchakarma. In reality, these are only the poorva karmas (preceeding process) of panchakarma. Ayurvedic treatment can be broadly divided into Samana Chikitsa (pacifying therapies) and Sodhana Chikitsa (elimination therapies). The elimination therapies are intended to flush out the toxins from the body. Panchakarma is done for elimination therapy. “Panchakarma” means five processes – Vamana (Emesis), Virechana (Purgation), Nasya (Nasal administration of medicine), Sneha vasthi (Enema with oil), Kashaya Vasthi (Enema with decoction and its add-ons). It must be accompanied by certain preceding and succeeding processes. The preceding processes involve intake of Ghee and oil application and sudation processes. This is done to facilitate the elimination of toxins when panchakarma is done. If these treatments alone are done without proper panchakarma therapies, it will do more harm than good. The duration and the type of panchakarma treatment needed depend upon the condition of the patient and can be decided only after proper evaluation of the patient. Hence it can never be given as pre fixed packages. To conclude, in the 21st century when the scope of Ayurveda is again on the rise, we people at the cradle of Ayurveda has a lot of doubts and disbelief towards our traditional system of medicine. All these doubts are nothing but the creation of our own. You may blame the policies of the government, the colonial rule and so many to name, but the true culprits are we ourselves who never tried to rediscover or reinvent the time- tested truths revealed in Ayurveda.

  • The Bid to Save the Greens


    “ Alungal Farm, spread over an acre and half right in the midst of the hectic area of Thammanam, houses a wide range of plants, some of which are highly medicinal and academic reserves and some that are endangered. “

    greensPreserving around 1800 varieties of medicinal plants and 300 fruit varieties, A.V. Purushothama Kamath of ‘Gurukulam’ has made his home a green abode.

    What began as an effort to protect the flora later turned out to be a passion for this former bank officer who is now a familiar face among the horticulturists in the State.

    His ‘Alungal Farm’, spread over an acre and half right in the midst of the hectic area of Thammanam, houses a wide range of plants, some of which are highly medicinal and academic reserves and some that are endangered. “Once you earnestly start investing your heart in this field, money ceases to matter. The sense of satisfaction these plants give is immense, ” says Kamath who has as his visitors, students of Botany, Ayurveda and Ecology and numerous others interested in protecting greenery.

    “Last time a group from a hospital in Bangalore came and collected plants from us. Students from Goa and Odisha too have come here to see the place and to do projects, ” he said. Occasionally, he also gets surprise visits from people like CPI state secretary Pannyan Raveendran, and renowned environmentalists and some of the High Court judges.

    A regular participant of the flower shows, Kamath always has surprises for the people who come to see his collection. The most recent one was the show organised at the Jawaharlal Nehru International Stadium in Kochi in January where he displayed 102 varieties. Apart from the Navagrahasasyangal corresponding to the nine planets, he also show-cased Sri Lankan Shimshipa, Cherupunna, Vishappola, Mayilellu, Muluvenga, Kilikkulachethi, Koena, Chuvanna Akil, Vella Akil, Kaara Akil, Ganapati Naarakam, Vankadalaadi, Doorstenia, Avalppori, Kaarthotti, Vetti, Kadukka, Brownia, Ven notchi, Bodhi, Chora pine, Kochikkoova, Malaveppu, Darbha, Malathaangi, Garudapatcha, Thaathiri, Nelli, Ithi, Vanni, Peraal, Kaakkathudali, Karingotta, Maramanjal, Ekanayakam, Kaattukarppooram, Nonji, Pazhuthaarakkolli, Aanaviratti, Safed Musli, Lakshmi Taru, Asokam, Eluppa, Samudrapatcha, Njarambodal, Kokkampuli, Manimaruthu, Vayola, Mothirakkanni, Veezhaal, Athi, Manjakaantham, Bhoothakkarandivalli, Pushkaramulla, Cheruthekku, Kamandalu, Plaashu, Aanathaandi, Keerikkizhangu and others.greens1

    He now looks forward to taking part in the next flower event at Hill Palace, Tripunithura, soon. “It feels great when people come and tell me that they never knew the plants which grew in their courtyard had such great value, ” says Kamath who is used to getting such appreciation.

    Besides the individual herbs, he also has a collection of what he calls the plant sets, like the Nakshatravruksham, Dashamoolam, Dashapushpam, Trikadu, Triphala, Trigandha, Trijaatham, Panjavalkam, Naalpaamaram etc. “Next time we will have the Raashimarangal too, ” he feels optimistic about the collection that is in the pipeline. This set corresponds to the Malayalam birth chart (horoscope).

    Yet another attraction in the farm is the incredible varieties of fruits, most of which have never seen the indigenous markets. Israel Athi, Star apple, Egg fruit, Butter fruit, Velvet apple, Elephant apple, Wood apple, Beypore apple, Singapore Cherry, Bell apple, West Indian cherry, Baraba, Jamaican fruit, Maramunthiri, Kumkumat, Odichukuthinaarakam and others from the lemon family, Longan, Chaampa varieties, figs, mulberries, Jabuticaba, miracle fruit, olives, mango varieties like Moovandan, Chandrakkaran, Muttippazham, Poochappazham, seedless jackfruits, seedless Jamun fruit (njaaval pazham), Ramputan, Valliplaavu, Munthirippera, Peach, Star fruit etc.

    Kamath’s efforts to preserve the plants have been widely applauded and won him laurels. The Krishi Bhavan Karshakottama Award thrice (1995, 98, 2006), the Coconut Development Board award for the best farmer are a few of them. He was also one among the best 15 farmers chosen by the Biodiversity Board last year. “My dream is to convert the farm into a herbal village, ” he says. He is also collecting the plants describedin Hortus Malabaricus, the most comprehensive treatise of medicinal herbs. “It has been a long-time dream to have an exhibition exclusively for the plants seen in this and I am sure my effort will see its result by the end of this year, ” says the 65-year- old impassioned horticulturist.

    The most in demand are the Nakshatavrikshams, Lakshmi Taru, Amukkuram that is used to treat AIDS, Mullatha that treats cancer, Abheeyu, Jabuticaba, Miracle fruit etc. The farmer and his family are now equally particular about collecting the local fruits that are in the process of getting endangered. The Njettukuzhiyan manga for instance. “You don’t see them anymore in cities,” says Chitra, Kamath’s daughter. Hiswife, Ashalatha, and other children, Vinaya and Anand, too, are active participants in the green greens3mission.

    “ “The workers , even if hired, may not love the plants as we do and I cannot afford to see these being mistreated” “

    “We use only vermin compost and biogas, no chemical fertilizer or pesticide, ” says the preserver who is particular about watering and nurturing the farm all alone.
    “The workers , even if hired, may not love the plants as we do and I cannot afford to see these being mistreated, ” he says

    greens4Considering the herbs as no different from his own children, Kamath eels they share a sort of telepathy. “There is a rapport indeed. We talk to each other and understand”. It was this sense of fulfillment that kept him going even when people around tagged him insane for giving up a decent job and turning to a profession so less remunerative as this. “Today even they take in the oxygen given by these plants, ” he smiles with gratification.

    An avid reader of books that give information about plants, Kamath also has to his credit a wide range of them. Sasyashabhavali, Vanavrikshangal, Ayurveda Patchamarunnukal, Vishasasyangal etc. help him in the process. A book that he is writing is in progress and Kammath hopes to impart his knowledge about plant lives to the rest of the world. His articles about five endangered species have already been published in Krishi Bhavan’s journal. He takes classes for ATMA, co-ordinated by the Krishi Bhavan.

    “It is not always about money. Lucrative the profession may not be. But you get to take in pure air, healthy food and feel gratified that the earth is protected and you are a part of the process. For me that is most important, ” says the man who has been protecting them for the past 40 years and never once regretted.

  • came, saw, conquered,

    When she came to India for the first time, Carina Miorin had no clue her life would take such a different turn in the coming years. It was in 2005 that she visited Tamil Nadu and Kerala for voluntary service as part of her studies. A student of Cultural Anthropology and Indological studies then, Carina went back to Germany, her homeland, only to return in 2007 and pursue studies in Ayurveda. “It was obviously a tough call, especially convincing the family,” says the German national who completed Bachelor of Ayurvedic Medicine and Surgery (BAMS) course from Sree Narayana Institute of Ayurveda Studies and Research in Puthur, Kollam.“I kept reading books in Ayurveda, particularly the ones written by Dr. Robert Svaboda, the American author and Ayurvedic doctor.”

    Traditional medicine, however, wasn’t new to the family as they have always resorted to alternative healing methods. “We do not go to doctors that early. I have never seen my dad go to the doctor,” she recounts with a smile. Nevertheless, dropping out of the university (Hamburg University) to proceed with academics and a career in Ayurveda did stoke apprehensions, she adds.

    Ask her how and why she chose Ayurveda, Miorin has a mouthful of reasons , and she has no regrets.
    “This science is amazing. There is no answer that you cannot find in these texts. I never imagined it was this vast, ” she replies. Yet the syllabus, she finds disagreeable. “I was overwhelmed initially. There is so very much to memorize.
    It gets to a point where you may not know what something is, but you may have already studied it.” says Carina who, in spite of unfriendly academic situations, topped the Sanskrit exam.

    “Well I had to give my heart there, working day and night over the portions,” she laughs while recollecting how tough it was to learn. “Often I had this worry whether I would really pass the exam but somehow I managed,” she says.
    Introduction to Sanskrit, what she had studied along with Indological studies, did help much, with the letter and grammar. While Ayurveda has mostly been taken abroad for the possible revenue it could gross, Carina feels it is the idea that has to be exported, not the medicine. “Life should start healthy and this field offers much there,” she says. “It can make an individual blooming and as well remove the illnesses”.

    But when it comes to practicing in Germany, one is expected to cross hurdles. “I am afraid I am going to lose what I learnt here because of the restrictions, especially being in a field where you learn as you practice. BAMS isn’t enough, but an equivalent course to get the license has to be cleared. And the health insurance there does not cover the treatment costs. Moreover, importing the medicine seems to be quite a task,” says she who feels dutiful about spreading the importance of Ayurveda. “It has to be taken across as it is worth it”.

    Ayurveda!Kerala: Vegetation, the flora-fauna, climate, lush greenery and people! “I have always felt close to the culture, people and climate. However, living here is very different from the ‘idea’ of living here. It was initially impossible to remember the place names but now that I have been here for quite some time, it is fine.” After the one -year internship, she now stays in Tripunithura, one of her favourite places, near an Aaryavaidyasala.

    Malayalam, again, was yet another constraint but five years ‘ intermingling has taught Miorin enough to communicate. “I know the basics of the language, to talk. It depends on who is on the other end. With the ones I know, it is pretty manageable but if it is an old man with no teeth, I can’t!,” laughs the Ravensburg-native who, incidentally, loves to eat Puttu and Idiyappam the most.

    Although her love for studies took her all the way across the continent, Carina feels what is important is the experience than any formal education, hence had no grievances after she had to repeat a year in school following a foreign exchange program to the US.

    Apart from the unorthodox passion, Carina has conceived love for music and travel as well. She had surprised the lot after winning the first prize for a flute rendition in the Western music category at the Ayur Youth Festival in Cherthala. “I had wanted to go for music therapy after high school but dropped the idea of music as a profession as it isn’t really the best way of choosing a livelihood”. Carina’s brother is a drummer, based in London.

    Yet another craze, travelling, had taken her to Europe, the US, Mexico, Bolivia, Peru, Nepal and other places . “This time I went for the Kumbh Mela. An incredible experience it was, ” says Miorin who prefers travelling alone. Pursuing a dream is indeed industrious, especially in an otherwise inhospitable terrain. So for all the ones who would like to go far with their passions, Carina Miorin is a lesson.

    As of now, the thirty-year old is busy with the yoga teacher training course in Thiruvananthapuram, preparing herself for a profession that she would like to undertake after getting back. “It is important to do what you love,” she says.