Ayurvedamagazine

Category: AYURVEDA

  • Ayurvedic therapy Jambira Pinda Sweda is effective in treating Cervical Spondylosis

    Cervical spondylosis is a chronic health condition caused by the progressive deterioration of the neck region’s backbone. Cervical spondylosis is extremely common. More than 85% of people over the age of 60 are affected by it. Treatment includes administering drugs to relieve pain, therapy to stretch and strengthen neck muscles, and surgery.

    In an innovative clinical study conducted by the Central Council for Research in Ayurvedic Sciences, the Ayurvedic therapy Jambira Pinda Sweda has been proven to be effective in treating cervical spondylosis. The study offers hope to the millions suffering from this debilitating condition, providing a safe and natural alternative to conventional treatments.

    Jambira means lemon. Jambira Pinda Sweda is a type of hot bolus fomentation. It is applied to the muscles and joints in the body and helps relieve pain and inflammation and relieves tension and flexibility.

    The study, which involved 60 patients with cervical spondylosis from New Delhi and Kerala, aged between 30 and 65 years, focused on the application of Jambira Pinda Sweda for a period of 14 days. The participants’ progress was assessed at the beginning, end, and seven days after completing the treatment. 

    The results of the study showed that the mean Pain Scale Score decreased from 6.9 at admission to 2.08 after three weeks, indicating a significant reduction in pain levels. Additionally, the score on another Neck Pain Scale dropped from 45.79 at admission to 17.32 after two weeks. 

    These findings demonstrate the efficacy of Jambira Pinda Sweda in alleviating pain associated with cervical spondylosis. Moreover, the study revealed a substantial improvement in the overall quality of life for all patients. The participants experienced positive changes in 36 measures of overall health, highlighting the holistic benefits of Jambira Pinda Sweda.

    Importantly, no adverse effects were  reported during the study, emphasizing the safety of this Ayurvedic therapy. This is a significant advantage over conventional treatments, which often come with side effects and dependency issues.

    The findings present Jambira Pinda Sweda as a viable, safe, and effective alternative to conventional treatments for cervical spondylosis. It offers hope to individuals seeking relief from the debilitating symptoms of this condition. By integrating traditional Ayurvedic practices into modern healthcare, Jambira Pinda Sweda showcases the potential benefits of a holistic approach to wellness.

  • Know the Ayurvedic way to healthy weight gain

    Weight loss is a fad among people of all ages. However, many aspire to gain weight as well. Losing weight is a challenge, as is healthily gaining weight. People aspire to gain weight for a variety of reasons including improved appearance, building resistance against diseases, and increasing energy levels and stamina. 

    Ayurveda presents a holistic approach towards weight gain through sustainable lifestyle changes tailored to individual needs. According to it, the inability to gain weight is due to the imbalance of the three doshas – Vata, Pitta, and Kapha. Weight gain requires the balancing of the three doshas. 

    Vata imbalance can be pacified by incorporating grounding foods like sweet potatoes, nuts, and avocados into the diet. To balance Pitta, add cooling and nourishing foods such as dairy products, grains, and sweet fruits like mangoes and bananas. For Kapha, stimulating foods and spices like ginger, garlic, and mustard are recommended.

    Just as balanced doshas, a balanced Agni, the fire that governs digestion, is also important for healthy weight gain. For kindling agni, it is essential to consume warm, cooked meals by incorporating digestive spices like ginger, cumin, and turmeric. The meals should comprise all six tastes—sweet, sour, salty, bitter, pungent, and astringent—to satisfy the body’s nutritional needs.

    Periodic detoxification by drinking warm water with lemon in the morning or consuming detoxifying herbs like Triphala can help clear toxins from the body and optimize digestion, thereby facilitating weight gain.

    Emotional imbalances such as stress, anxiety, depression, and low self-esteem can directly impact eating habits and overall health. Sometimes individuals turn to food for comfort, distraction, or relief from negative emotions. The choice of food will often be sugary or high-fat which will lead to unhealthy weight gain. 

    To ensure healthy weight gain eat food in a relaxed pace. Chew the food thoroughly, with gratitude for the nourishment it provides. Avoid distractions like TV or mobile phones during food consumption. Drink plenty of water throughout the day to support digestion. Have your meals at evenly spaced intervals and avoid prolonged periods of fasting. 

    It is recommended to develop a customized exercise regimen according to your body type to promote healthy weight gain. Ensure adequate sleep and maintain emotional balance through practices like Yoga and meditation. 

  • Black pepper has been part of Ayurvedic medicine for thousands of years, here’s why…

    Black Pepper is among the most traded spices in the world. Its importance was such that in ancient trade black pepper was often referred to as black gold. There are many reasons why natives of Europe braved high seas and harsh weather to reach the Malabar coast just to get their hands on this precious commodity. 

    Black pepper has been part of Ayurvedic medicine for thousands of years. Modern science suggests that black pepper is a powerful antioxidant that mops up harmful substances from the body resulting from an unhealthy diet, too much alcohol, and tobacco consumption. 

    Black pepper also has anti-inflammatory properties which helps deal with a range of diseases, including autoimmune diseases, such as rheumatoid arthritis. It can also help the body better absorb certain beneficial compounds, such as resveratrol that protect against heart disease, cancer, Alzheimer’s, and diabetes.

    Black pepper also improves the absorption of curcumin, which is the active ingredient in the popular anti-inflammatory spice turmeric. Another compound beta-carotene, found in vegetables and fruits, is also absorbed by black pepper. Beta-carotene functions as a powerful antioxidant that fights against cellular damage. 

    Black pepper may also have cancer-fighting properties. Studies have found that black pepper reduced the reproduction of breast, prostate, and colon cancer cells and encouraged cancer cells to die. Black pepper also shows promising effects in minimizing multi-drug resistance in cancer cells, which potentially reduces the effectiveness of chemotherapy.

    Black pepper is among the most important spices used in Ayurveda medicine. Along with long pepper and ginger, it forms the herbal preparation called trikatu, an important ingredient in many Ayurvedic formulations. It helps improve digestion, aids in weight loss, alleviates skin pigmentation issues and arthritis pain, and fights depression.

    So, there were plenty of reasons for the ancients to find a way to acquire this precious commodity, no matter what the risks were. Black pepper continues to be a staple in Ayurveda today, with its vast array of medicinal qualities virtually unmatched by any other spice or herb. 

  • Importance of taking up Ayurveda treatment during Karkidaka month

    Karkidaka month is a very significant time when the Sun begins its annual southward movement or the ‘dakshinayanam’. As such the human body is in a state of flux during this time. There is a disruption in the balance of the doshas – vata, pitta and kapha. While this can make the body weak and prone to diseases, this also makes it the perfect time for Ayurveda treatments and therapies. 

    Removal of toxins from the body is significantly easier during the Karkidaka month. The Ayurvedic treatments at this time are focused on bringing balance to the three doshas. Panchakarma is considered to be ideal during this period. Those taking Ayurvedic treatments experience better health, increased immunity and overall wellness. 

    Ayurveda practices during Karkidaka month include recitals or listening to spiritual scriptures, healthy practices including staying at home after dark and drinking warm water boiled with purifying herbs, social gatherings in a spiritual background to keep a positive frame of mind and consuming Karkidaka Kanji to alleviate diseases and improve immunity. 

    A vegetarian diet is considered the best during this period. Karkidaka Kanji, made from many medicinal plants and herbs with grains and spices, is an ancient Ayurveda recipe considered one of the best foods to increase immunity and relieve the body from many diseases. It is considered no less than a medicine. 

    Taking up Ayurveda treatment during Karkidaka month flushes out the toxins accumulated during the summer months. This improves immunity and helps one prevent diseases, increase overall energy, and improve the quality of life. 

    This detoxification of the body helps make it pure and clean. The process slows down ageing and balances the vital elements. Breaking down fat deposits and excess energy helps in reducing unwanted weight. This helps one to have a body that is not overweight or obese.

  • The renowned cardio surgeon, Dr. MS Valiathan, passed away

    The renowned cardio surgeon, Dr. MS
    Valiathan, passed away (17 July 2024) in Manipal at the age of 90. Dr.
    Valiathan dedicated his life to medical innovation and education, leaving a
    lasting impact on the field. He earned his medical degree from the University
    of Kerala in 1956 and specialized in cardiac surgery, training at prestigious
    institutions like Johns Hopkins University and the University of Liverpool.

    Dr. Valiathan played a key role in
    establishing the Sree Chitra Tirunal Institute for Medical Sciences and
    Technology (SCTIMST) in Thiruvananthapuram, where his leadership was
    invaluable. His contributions to medicine were recognized worldwide, with honors
    such as being named a Chevalier in the Ordre des Palmes Académiques by the
    French government in 1999, receiving the Padma Vibhushan in 2005, and being
    awarded the Dr. Samuel P. Asper International Award from Johns Hopkins
    University Medical School in 2009. He served as the former president of the
    Indian National Science Academy and as a National Research Professor.

     

    Valiathan delved into the study of Ayurveda
    in addition to allopathy. He gained experience at the Post Graduate Institute
    in Chandigarh before joining the Sree Chitra Thirunal Institute in 1974. Under
    his guidance, the biomedical department at Sree Chitra successfully produced
    the country’s first artificial heart valve, blood bag, and oxygenator. Despite
    the usual clash between allopathic and Ayurvedic doctors, there have been
    attempts to recognize the benefits of both. The fusion of Ayurveda and Allopathy
    has led to numerous innovative ideas that hold promise for the future.

     

    We are truly sorry for the loss of such a
    remarkable figure in the healthcare field, who shared his knowledge through
    numerous books on Ayurveda, including the renowned works: Legacy of Charaka,
    Legacy of Susrutha, and Legacy of Vagbhata.

     

    – Ayurveda and Health Tourism Magazine-

  • Ayurveda explains what happens when you resist the urge to urinate for too long

    While it is not a nice feeling having to suppress the urge to pass urine, many people choose to do so for a variety of reasons, including being busy at work, travelling, lack of access to clean restrooms and even reluctance to excuse themselves to the bathroom when in the company of another person. 

    While seemingly harmless, holding urine constantly can cause damage to the organs involved in urine production. There is a term to describe the habit of resisting the urge to urinate in Ayurveda – it is called ‘mutra vega dharana’, and it badly affects the health of a person. 

    ‘Vega’ is a signal of the body’s need to detoxify, where the body has to void some unwanted things to keep itself pure, sterile and in good health. If these unwanted things are held back it will result in the contamination of the body. 

    ‘Mutra’ is among the 3 ‘malas’ (metabolic wastes) of the body, the other two being pureesha (stool) and sweda (sweat). Mutra, or urine is the unwanted water or fluid component of the body which has to be voided regularly. 

    The expulsion of mutra happens with the help of ‘apana vata’, which is one of the five types of vata located in the lower portion of the body. Regular suppression of the urge to urinate results in the disturbance of apana vata or apana vayu. 

    The apana vayu disturbed will tend to move in various directions, mainly in the upward direction. This will put pressure on the urinary bladder, uterus and genital system leading to various disorders. This will damage the urinary bladder and the kidneys, eventually affecting the whole system. 

    So, if you have the urge to urinate, it is best to relieve yourself without holding it for too long. Not only is it the most basic, but is also the most healthy thing to do. 

  • Know your Ayurveda diet based on your dosha type

    It is often said that you are what you eat. Ayurveda says one has to eat according to what they are. There are three kinds of doshas in Ayurveda – Kapha, Pitta and Vata. Nature of each individual varies according to their dosha types. Ayurveda recommends a certain diet for a person who belongs to a particular dosha type. 

    Kapha dosha – The Kapha dosha is based on the earth and water. Such individuals have a healthy immune system and are prone to slow metabolism, and weight gain. Spicy, filling, and acidic foods are the best diet for Kapha dosha individuals. 

    Astringent fruits like apples, limes and prunes and pungent and bitter vegetables like corn, beets, spinach, and garlic are good for them. Dairy products include cottage cheese from skimmed milk, goat products, lassi, buttermilk, and meat include white chicken, freshwater fish, eggs, rabbit, and shrimp.

    However sweet and sour fruits like avocados, melons, papaya, and sweet vegetables like cucumbers, sweet potato, and raw tomatoes are to be avoided. The same goes for butter, ice cream, and sour cream as well as pork and red meat. 

    Pitta dosha –  The Pitta dosha is based on the fire and water elements. People with Pitta have a quick metabolism and are prone to inflammation and acne as they are sensitive to hot temperatures. Cold, sweet, light, and energy foods are the best in the diet for Pitta individuals 

    Sweet fruits like apples, dates, mangoes and grapes, raisins, and sweet and bitter vegetables like asparagus, bitter melon, cabbage, and potatoes are good for them. Dairy products like ghee, butter, milk, and cheese, and meat of buffalo, white chicken, freshwater fish, rabbit, and turkey meat, along with egg whites do good on Pitta people. 

    Avoid almost all sour fruits like tamarind, lemons and pineapple, as well as pungent vegetables like hot peppers, spinach and tomatoes. Dairy products like hard cheese, sour cream, and old yoghurt and most dark meats like chicken, duck, beef and seafood are not advised for Pitta people. 

    Vata dosha – The Vata dosha is made from the elements of air and space (ether). The individuals with this dosha have a slim body and their mood swings according to the food they eat. They are prone to irregular appetite and digestive issues like gas.

    Vata individuals should prefer sweet fruits like apricots, cooked apples, grapes, oranges and cherries, as well as cooked and root vegetables like carrots, green beans and beets. Most types of dairy like buttermilk, sour cream, yoghurt, goat products, cheese, milk, and ghee, and meats like beef, chicken, eggs, fish, duck, and buffalo are good for them. 

    They have to avoid most types of dried fruits like raw apples, pomegranate, watermelon, and pears and most types of frozen, raw, or dry vegetables like potatoes, bitter melon, leafy greens, raw onions, and sprouts. They should also avoid powdered milk in dairy and meat of lamb, rabbit, venison, and turkey. 

  • Ayurveda to help Delhi Zoo animals remain safe and healthy during this monsoon season

    The immense popularity of Ayurveda is breaching biological boundaries and entering into the animal kingdom. At Delhi Zoo, authorities will be using traditional products like neem oil, turmeric and quick lime to keep animals safe and healthy during this monsoon season. 

    “The monsoon has arrived and we have to take all necessary measures to keep the animals healthy and safe during this season. We will use some Indian home remedies like neem oil, turmeric and quicklime, which will help protect the animals from common biting insects, including mosquitoes, biting midges and fleas,” Delhi Zoo Director Sanjeet Kumar said. 

    Neem oil, extracted from the leaves and seeds of the Neem tree, are potent antiseptic and insect repellant. It has anti-inflammatory, antifungal, antibacterial and antiviral properties. It can be used as an herbal disinfectant and fly repellent and also against external parasites. 

    Turmeric, known for its anti-inflammatory and healing properties, can be used to treat itchy skin conditions, infections and wounds in animals. Turmeric dust when applied to lesions and foot sores will help expedite the healing process. 

    Quickline or ‘chuna’ can be used to prevent mosquito proliferation. This comes in handy during monsoon season when heavy rains can lead to waterlogging in certain parts of the zoo. Sprinkling quicklime in water-logged spots will stop the growth of mosquitoes and keep the animals safe. 

    The Delhi Zoo, originally named The National Zoological Park, is situated in a 176-acre area under the central government’s jurisdiction. The application of Ayurveda to keep the animals here safe during monsoon sends a positive message of utilising Ayurveda in all areas of life, including animal welfare. 

  • The Miraculous Recovery: Ayurveda’s Impact on LASIK Vision Loss

    Ayurveda has truly worked wonders for the surgeon
    who lost her vision during LASIK treatment! Dr. Rashmi’s journey has
    been nothing short of miraculous. After undergoing LASIK surgery in
    2008, her vision gradually deteriorated, forcing her to give up her
    profession as a laparoscopic surgeon in 2015. It became increasingly
    difficult for her to perform surgeries accurately while watching
    television, and she had to abandon her passion.

    However,
    everything changed when she came across Thiruvalla ‘Sudarshanam’ Ayurvedic
    eye hospital in 2021. Initially, she couldn’t even open her eyes,
    walk, or go out. She had to eat while sitting facing the wall and
    wore a p-cap, constantly looking down. But today, thanks to the
    incredible healing powers of Ayurveda, Dr. Rashmi has regained her
    eyesight. She can now open her eyes, communicate with a smile, and
    marvel at the world around her.

    Dr.
    Rashmi, a university rank winner with a gold medal in surgery, is
    mentally preparing herself to resume her specialty of keyhole
    surgery. This remarkable transformation is attributed to the slight
    correction in her eyesight, which now stands at an impressive 6/9.
    Overwhelmed with joy and profound gratitude, she greeted Dr. Gokulan,
    the Chief Physician of Sudarshanam by touching his feet and descended
    the steps of the hospital, radiating happiness.

    Dr.
    Rashmi currently resides in Miami, where she continues to inspire
    others with her incredible journey of healing and resilience.
    Ayurveda has not only restored her vision but also reignited her
    passion for surgery. With her newfound clarity of sight, she is ready
    to embark on a new chapter in her career, bringing hope and healing
    to countless patients once again.

  • Ayurveda principles to ensure a healthy childhood

    Ayurveda recognizes that human beings go through different stages of life. Each of these stages is governed by one of the three biological intelligences – Vata, Pitta and Kapha, or a combination of them. The phase of childhood according to Ayurveda is governed by the Kapha stage.

    Kapha is governed by the elements of water and earth. Here, excess mucosa is generated in body tissues as a result of the growth process. This is the reason why people tend to suffer more easily from congestion in the respiratory tract in childhood. The tendency to develop a fondness for sweet flavours is because they contribute best to this growth process. 

    The following are the habits which need to be instilled among children as per Ayurveda principles to promote their physical, mental and emotional balance. 

    Discipline: Being regular in your meals, rest, play and study times balances the nervous system, stabilizing the emotional state and improving mental clarity. Children should eat homemade food as much as possible.

    Eating right: Avoid distractions during mealtime such as television, radio or cell phones. Include variety in your food, especially in fruits and vegetables, but minimize consumption of dressings, soft drinks, artificial flavourings, refined flours and sugars, and frozen and canned foods.

    Drink water: Children need to develop the habit of drinking water to stay hydrated and avoid liquid calories.

    Sense of responsibility: Promote environmental volunteer service and community help actions among children to develop in them the responsibility to give back to the society they live in. 

    Creativity: Children must also be made to indulge in activities where they have to use their creativity and imagination regularly. 

    Trust and safety: Children should grow up in an environment where they feel safe, loved, accepted and motivated to achieve their dreams. Efforts should be made to build trust among children during their formative years, teaching them to enjoy every moment in their lives. 

    The body, mind and spirit are the pillars of Ayurveda to maintain a healthy lifestyle. Creating the right environment for the integral development of children and ensuring a healthy diet and habits are the best gifts we can give them for their future independent lives.

    Helping your children to adopt this lifestyle not only helps in preventing diseases but also promotes their growth process to become integral human beings in balance with themselves and with the world around them.