Blogs on lifestyle

Treatment For Bronchial Diseases

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The Bronchus is a part of respiratory system through which the air is conducted to lungs. There are Right and Left Bronchi. Let us see about the main conditions that affect Bronchi.

  • Asthma:- It is a chronic inflammatory condition. The person may suffer from wheezing, coughing, tightness in chest, difficulty in breathing.
  • Bronchitis:- Bronchitis is the inflammation of the bronchi.
  • Bronchopneumonia:- It is the inflammation of the lungs which occurs in bronchi or bronchioles.

There are many disorders or conditions. Since here we are generally discussing about the treatment of bronchial diseases, only a few are mentioned above.

Let us see the treatment that can be done in Bronchial Conditions.

THE TREATMENT OF BRONCHIAL DISEASES

Panchakarmas and other treatments are usually done in chronic conditions. A wide range of internal medicines are available for the treatment of Bronchial diseases.

In internal treatments there are medicines that help in the:-

  • Cure
  • Prevention
  • Boosting of immunity

Many Kashayas¸ Arishtas, Lehyas, churnas etc. can be used in the treatment of various conditions. The physician prescribes medicine according to the condition of the person, disease, duration of the condition etc.

External treatments that can be used are:-

  • Snehapanam
  • Panchakarmas etc.

Every treatment and medication is decided by the physician after a thorough analysis of the person’s:-

  • Prakriti – Nature
  • Dosha Prakopa – Vitiated Dosha
  • Balam – Strength of the person and the disease etc.

Rasayana Chikitsa is administered after the cure of the condition to prevent the recurrence.

Post-Pregnancy Health Programmes

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the post pregnancy care

                  Giving birth to a new life is not a simple thing. Imagine a life growing inside you! Pregnancy makes a lot of changes in a woman physically and mentally.

THE CHANGES IN A WOMAN DURING PREGNANCY

The External Genital Organs becomes oedematous and the blood circulation increases there. Superficial varicosities may appear.

The Vagina increases in size. It also becomes oedematous and the circulation is increased.

The Uterus grows enormously and its capacity is increased by 500 to 1000 times.

The most evident changes can be seen in breasts. Breasts increases in size and secretion of colostrum can be seen. Along with that, the nipples get pigmented,

The Skin gets pigmented in face, breast and abdomen.

The Body Weight increases constantly. But in some, the vomiting or nausea causes the decrease in weight. The total weight gain in a healthy pregnant woman, who is carrying a single foetus, is average 11Kg.

During pregnancy a large amount of water is retained in the woman’s body. It is about 6.5L.

The Blood Volume, Plasma Volume, RBC and Haemoglobin levels increase markedly. This increase is due to the increased oxygen demand in pregnancy. The Immune system becomes more active. Similarly the coagulation factors too increase. Even though the Cardiac output increases, the Blood pressure usually remains unaffected. But in some, a mid-pregnancy drop in of diastolic pressure by a small value of 5-10mm of Hg is seen.

The Total Metabolism increases. This is due to the needs of growing uterus.

The Lung Capacity decreases.

Many Emotional Changes occurs due to the hormonal changes. Even though mood changes are normal, some women may experience severe depression.  These situations are to be handled wisely by family.

Above all these changes the woman undergoes severe stress during labour.

WHY POST-PREGNANCY CARE IS IMPORTANT ?

The above said changes will create a strain in the woman’s body and mind. Therefore Ayurveda recommends Post-Pregnancy care.

After the delivery the Vata Dosha gets vitiated. Along with that the body gets weak. These two factors are to be considered while administering the post-pregnancy care programmes.

THE DIET PLAN

The Ayurveda recommends taking a thin soup like preparation, prepared using the prescribed medicines for the first 3 days. Medicated milk decoction is to be used in diet from 4th – 7th days. From 8th – 12th days foods that are nourishing should be taken. From 12th day onwards specially prepared meat soup is used.

REGIMENS TO BE FOLLOWED

Massaging the body and abdomen using medicated oils are recommended. After that the woman is advised to bath in luke-warm water.

Only boiled water should be used for drinking.

The woman should avoid sexual intercourse for the specified time. She should avoid stress, anger etc. She should not get exposed to cold environment. She should not undergo any Panchakarma treatments.

INTERNAL MEDICATIONS

The woman is given mainly medicines that will pacify the Vata Dosha and that will nourish her body.

For a healthy woman the above said treatments are given. If she is suffering from any other discomforts, it should be mentioned to the physician, and the necessary changes will be made.

Tharpanam

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Tharpanam

The word Tharpanam literally means “nourishment”. This treatment is done in eye disorders.

HOW THARPANAM IS DONE

            This can be done as a treatment or as a preventive. Usually medicated ghee is used for the treatment. In this treatment a well-like structure is made around the eyes. The person is asked to close the eyes and the medicine is poured carefully inside it. The person is asked to open and close the eyes slowly.  After the specified time the medicine is removed and the patient is allowed to relax.

POST-OPERATIVE CARE

The person should avoid exposure to:-

  • Direct light
  • Bright light
  • Sun etc.

It is better to wear a sun glass so that the person can attain the maximum benefit of the treatment.

INDICATIONS

  • Injuries
  • Eye strain
  • Visual defects
  • Degenerative disorders etc.
  • Vataja diseases

CONTRA-INDICATIONS

  • The treatment should not be done in too cold or hot seasons
  • Kaphaja diseases

As we know the eyes are one of the important organs in our body. Therefore the person should follow the instructions given by the physician. The pre-operative and post-operative cares will be directed by the physician and should be strictly followed by the person. The person should give a well explained history regarding his/her condition.

Sirovasthi

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Siro vasthi

Sirovasthi is one of the most important treatments. It comes under the Murdha Thailas, the treatments for the murdha or the head. This treatment can be done as curative and rejuvenation therapy. Moreover, the treatment has a wide range of action.

HOW SIROVASTHI IS DONE?

             In Sirovasthi, a frame made of leather is fixed around the head. It is made sure that it is leak proof. Then the medicated oil is made warm and poured into the frame. The medicated oil is allowed to stay there for specified time period. The medicated is kept at constant temperature by the therapist.

            The person undergoing the treatment is given a comfortable position to sit during the procedure. Along with that the eyes are asked to keep closed.

            After the procedure the oil and the frame is removed. The head is wiped well. The head and, shoulder, palms and soles are massaged gently. Later Rasnadi churna is applied on the forehead. The person is then allowed to take rest. Thereafter he/she can take bath in lukewarm water.

           The person should not sleep during the procedure. The person should not move or shake the head that may disturb the frame on the head.

INDICATIONS

The Sirovasthi is indicated in the following conditions:-

  • Almost all of the conditions that affect the structures above the shoulder. That includes eye diseases, ear diseases etc.
  • Mental disorders
  • Stiffness of neck
  • Lock jaw
  • Frozen shoulder
  • Hemiplegia
  • Insomnia
  • Facial palsy
  • Cervical spondylosis
  • Depression
  • Migraine etc.

Body Purification/ Sodhana Chikitsa

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Shodhana chikitsa

As the name suggests, the Sodhana Chikitsa is administered for purification of the body. By undergoing the Sodhana Chikitsa, those vitiated humors, which got accumulated in body, are expelled out. This helps in the curing of ailments, repairing the body and rejuvenating it. Ashtanga Hridaya, one of the important treatises, explains this idea in one simple slokha or verse.

“Yadeerayedbahirdoshaan………….tat II”

(Ashtanga Hridaya: Suthra Sthana: Chapter-14: Verse-5)

TYPES OF SODHANA CHIKITSA

The 5 types of Sodhana Chikitsa are:-

  1. Niruha Basti
  2. Vamana
  3. Virechana
  4. Nasya
  5. Rakta Moksha

Let us see in detail.

  1. Niruha Basti:- Also known as Kashaya Basthi. Mainly different forms of Kashayas or decoctions are administered as enemas. But it is not merely an enema. It is a systemic therapy having a wide range of therapeutic effects. This helps in the elimination of the vitiated Vata Dosha.
  2. Vamana:- Emesis therapy. This helps in the elimination of vitiated Kapha Dosha. The individual, after proper analysis, is administered with the emetic drugs at proper time.
  3. Virechana:- Purgation therapy. This helps in the elimination of the vitiated Pitta Dosha. Here too, the procedure and the selection of drugs are done after thorough analysis.
  4. Nasya:-  Errhine  therapy. Here the medicines are administered through the nose. This is usually done to eliminate doshas from sinus, throat, nose or head. Nasya is really effective in the treatment of various CNS disorders, facial palsy etc.
  5. Rakta Moksha:- Blood-letting therapy. In this method, letting out of the vitiated blood is done. This method is of two types, based on the instrument used. The first category includes methods that use surgical instruments for blood-letting. The second method includes those procedures that use alternative methods for blood-letting, eg. Leeches etc.

 

WHY SODHANA IS IMPORTANT?

           To explain the importance of Sodhana Chikitsa the Charaka Samhitha gives a beautiful example. Consider an unwanted tree or a plant. It cannot be destroyed by just destroying its branches. To destroy it completely, the destruction should be done at its root. The same is the case with the treatment of a disease too. When destroyed from the root levels the disease will not recur. This can be done with the help of Sodhana Chikitsa.

WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS OF SODHANA CHIKITSA?

  • Helps in removing the disease from its roots
  • Improves digestion
  • Enhanced metabolism
  • Helps in the proper action of the medicines administered
  • Improves health

Note:-

The type of Shodhana Chikitsa is chosen after a careful examination of the individual by a physician. If eligible, the physician will instruct about the routine to be followed. The individual must follow the instructions to get the best results.

REFERNCES:-

 

  • Ashtanga Hridaya
  • Charaka Samhitha
  • Susrutha Samhitha
  • Principles and Practice of Panchakarma

 

 

Rasayana Chikitsa

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rasayana chikitsa

In one word, we can define Rasayana Chikitsa as Rejuvenation Therapy. What does Ayurveda says about Rasayana.

“रसायनतन्त्रं नाम वय:स्थापनमायुर्मेधाबलकरं रोगापहरणसमर्थम् च ॥“

(Susrutha Samhitha : Suthra Sthana: Chapter:1: Verse:7)

Rasayana Tantra is that branch of Ayurveda that describes the methods of withholding ageing, increasing the life-span, intelligence, strength and immunity.

In total, the Rasayana Chikitsa helps in overall improvement of health.

WHAT ARE THE EFFECTS OF RASAYANA CHIKITSA?

As per Charaka Samhitha, one of the most important texts in Ayurveda, the one who undergoes Rasayana Chikitsa will obtain:-

  • Prolonged life span
  • Increased memory power
  • Intellect
  • Health
  • Youthfulness
  • Good lustre
  • Shining complexion
  • Excellent voice
  • Strong body and sense organs

Charaka Samhitha, the best treatise that teaches the treatment modalities, dedicates four parts in the very beginning of its Chikitsa Sthana, (the section that teaches about the treatments). That itself shows how the Ayurveda gives emphasis on the prevention of diseases and protection of health. Yes, “Prevention is better than cure”.

TYPES OF RASAYANA CHIKITSA

There are mainly 2 types of Rasayana Chikitsa:-

 

  • Kutipraveshika:- In this method the treatment is administered by keeping the individual inside a specially constructed cottage, without being exposed to sun and wind. In this a special cottage, with narrow ventilators are constructed as per the instructions given in the treatises. After evaluating the climate etc, the individual, enters the cottage and is subjected to purification or Shodhana Chikitsa and thereafter Rasayana Chikitsa. The Shodhana is done after evaluating the nature of the body of the individual. The administration is different formulations or drugs are done for a definite time period, in prescribed dosages.

 

 

  • Vatatapika:- This treatment can be done even if the individual is exposed to wind and sun.

 

Note:-

The Rasayana Chikitsa should be strictly done under the supervision of a physician. The formulations and dosage are to be decided by the physician only as it varies according to nature of the body of the individual.

The individual should strictly follow the instructions of the physician.

Who All Are Eligible To Undergo Rasayana Chikitsa?

Even though the physician is the one who decides whether an individual is eligible to undergo Rasayana Chikitsa, here a general list is given below:-

 

  • Kutipraveshika:-
  • Able-bodied
  • Free from diseases
  • Intelligent
  • Having self-control
  • Having enough time to spare
  • Vatatapika:-
  • All others who are not eligible for Kutipraveshika Rasayana Chikitsa.

 

As we discussed earlier, Ayurveda not only gives importance to physical wellbeing but also to mental and emotional well being. Therefore Ayurveda also describes the good conducts, that when followed, will give rejuvenation.

REFERENCES:-

  • Susrutha Samhitha
  • Charaka Samhitha

Pizhichil

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pizhichil

The Pizhichil, is one of the Swedana methods. It is a modified version of Kayaseka, used in Kerala. This can be done as a main treatment or as a rejuvenation therapy.

HOW PIZHICHIL IS DONE?

In this, method the person is laid on the Taila Dhroni, a special table, and oil is poured continuously in special method. The duration of the treatment is important.

Warm oil is used throughout the treatment. The selection of the oil is done by the physician after considering the condition of the person and his/her health.

BENEFITS OF PIZHICHIL

Even though the Pizhichil comes under Swedana(Sudation therapy), it gives the effect of Snehana(Oleation therapy) also. The usage of oil gives this procedure such an effect.

INDICATIONS

In healthy persons, this procedure acts as rejuvenation therapy and helps in enhancing the health.

As a treatment, this procedure is beneficial in neurological disorders, degenerative disorders etc. It is important to understand that not all diseases that comes under the above mentioned groups are advised this treatment. The physician is the one who should decide the suitable treatment.

CONTRA-INDICATIONS

Usually not done in persons having:-

  • Inflammatory conditions
  • Fever
  • Digestive disorders
  • Respiratory

Pizhinju Thadaval a variant of Pizhichil is also popular in Kerala. In this procedure, the person is massaged in special way along with the pouring of the oil.

POST-TREATMENT CARE

The person should follow the instructions given by the physician. Some of the important things to be noted are:-

  • The person should use water that was boiled and then cooled down to luke-warm temperature for bathing.
  • He/she should take medicines prescribed by the physician, if any.
  • Light food is recommended for the person.
  • The person should avoid sexual intercourse during the course of treatment or till the physician suggests.

Njavara Kizhi

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njavarakizhi

Njavara Kizhi is also known as Shashtika Sali Pinda Swedam. From that term itself it is clear that it comes under the Swedanam or the Sudation Therapy.

Pinda Sweda or Kizhi is a special form of treatment formed and followed in Kerala. In this method, various medicines are used to make boluses that are packed in cloth bags and used to apply heat to the body. According to the type of bolus used the name of the Kizhi changes.

Njavara is a type of rice that has high medicinal value. The rice is cooked in medicated milk decoction. The well-cooked rice is tied in cloth as bolus. The bolus is kept warm throughout the entire procedure by dipping in medicated milk decoction.

INDICATIONS

This procedure can be done as a treatment and also for rejuvenation. Mainly done in conditions like:-

  • Neurological Disorders
  • Neuromuscular disorders
  • Degenerative disorders

CONTRAINDICATIONS

This cannot be done in:-

  • Diseases caused by Kapha Dosha
  • Conditions with oedema
  • Indigestion
  • Skin diseases
  • Heart diseases
  • Diseases related to urinary system
  • Obesity

The above said are the indications and contraindications of the Njavara Kizhi. But there are many other factors also to be considered before advising the treatment for the person. Only after a careful examination only a physician will advice the treatment.

POST-TREATMENT CARE

The person should follow the instructions given by the physician. Some of the important things to be noted are:-

  • The person should use water that was boiled and then cooled down to luke-warm temperature for bathing.
  • He/she should take medicines prescribed by the physician, if any.
  • Light food is recommended for the person.
  • The person should avoid sexual intercourse during the course of treatment or till the physician suggests.

Mukhalepam

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mukhalepam

Mukhalepam is done on the face. In this treatment the medicated paste is applied on the face and kept for specified time. The paste is made according to the condition of the person.

             During the treatment the person is allowed to sit or lie in a comfortable position. The thickness of the application also depends on the condition of the person. The thickness varies from thin to thick. Usually the applied paste is removed before getting completely dried.

POST-OPERATIVE CARE

        According to the condition, Mukhabhyanga or the massage of the face using suitable medicated oil is done. The person should not get himself exposed to fire, sun etc.

INDICATIONS

  The Mukhalepam is indicated in the below said conditions:-

  • Pigmentation of the face
  • Acne
  • Pimples
  • Blackheads
  • Wrinkles etc.

BENEFITS

The Mukhalepam have the following benefits:-

  • Improves complexion
  • Clear and flawless skin
  • Antiseptic properties

REFERENCES:-

  • Principles and practice of Panchakarma

Lepanam

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lepanam

This is a very simple treatment. But the action of the treatment is wide. Mostly the treatment is done locally and in special cases in entire body.

HOW LEPANAM IS DONE?

In Lepanam, medicated paste is made by mixing medicated powders with appropriate liquids. Depending upon the condition of the person and disease the selection of the medicines may vary. The prepared medicated paste is applied on the area or the entire body. The paste is removed after the specified time.

BENEFITS

Benefits of the Lepanam vary according to the medicine used. There are lepanams that have:-

  • Anti-inflammatory property
  • Analgesic property
  • Lepanams that help in removing pimples etc.

The action of the lepanam varies according to the medicines used for the lepanam. Therefore the person should inform the physician about his/her condition correctly.

Kizhi

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kizhi

Kizhi is a Malayalam word meaning “a bag filled with”. Here the bag is filled with medicines. The filling can be medicated powder, processed medicinal leaves etc. According to the medicine used inside the bag and the procedure the name of the kizhi changes. In Sanskrit this is named as Pinda Sweda. From the name we can understand that the procedure comes under Swedana type of treatment.

The procedure can be done in many different ways. Let us take a look on different types of Kizhis.

The Kizhis that are commonly used in various treatments are:-

 

  • Churna Pinda Sweda or Podi Kizhi
  • Jambira Pinda Sweda or Naranga Kizhi
  • Kati Kizhi
  • Anda Sweda or Mutta Kizhi
  • Pathra Potali Sweda or Ila Kizhi
  • Shashtika Pinda Sweda or Njavara Kizhi
  • Valuka Sweda or Manal Kizhi

 

CHURNA PINDA SWEDA

                       This procedure is known as Podi Kizhi in Malayalam. In this type the cloth bag is filled with medicated powders or Churnas, hence the name Churna Pinda Sweda. It can be done either after an oil massage or without oil massage. The requirement of oil massage is decided by the physician according to the conditions of the person.

JAMBIRA PINDA SWEDA

             Jambira means lemon. Here processed lemons are used to fill the bag. Before starting the procedure the person is massaged with medicated oils.

KATI KIZHI

              This is a variant of Curna Pinda Sweda. In this procedure, the powder is processed in Dhanyamla.

ANDA SWEDA

             This is also known as Mutta Kizhi. In this type of kizhi, boiled hen’s egg is processed and filled in the bag.

PATHRA POTALI SWEDA

            In Malayalam, this procedure is commonly known as Ila Kizhi. In this type of procedure processed leaves are used to fill in the bags.

SHASHTIKA PINDA SWEDA

           In this type, the bag is filled with processed rice. The rice used is of medicinal value. Usually the bags are dipped in milk during the treatment.

VALUKA SWEDA

         In this the bags are filled with processed sand.

Now let us take a look on how the procedure is done.

HOW THE PROCEDURE IS DONE?

        The person is asked to lie down on the specially set table. The body may or may not be anointed with medicated oil (this is decided by the physician according to the condition of the person and the treatment prescribed). The bags are heated according to the instructions of the physician and the heated bags are used for the sudation.

Follow the instructions of the physician to attain the full effects of treatment.

Remedies For Hair Loss In Ayurveda

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Remedies for hairloss in ayurveda

Ladies and gentlemen!!! We understand the pain when you realise that you are having hair loss. All most everybody in this world might have faced this problem. And we are sure that you might have already done a research in the topic. Now, what makes this article different from others? You might have already read a hundreds of articles about the causes, treatments, and remedies. This article speaks about what can be done to overcome the hair loss with the help of Ayurveda.

First we can discuss about the common types of Hair loss and its causes.

  • Male/Female pattern baldness
  • Alopecia areata
  • Telogen effluvium
  • Anagen effluvium
  • Hairloss due to some hormonal variations

Male/Female Pattern Baldness: – The main factor for this cause is genetics. But it may be also caused by the excess production of androgens. In females, this usually appears after menopause and the thinning occurs on the top and the crown of the head. The thinning starts as widening of the centre hair part. In males, the thinning occurs on the top and front of the head.

Alopecia areata:- This is a condition in which the hair falls of  in round patches. This may occur not ony on the head but also on the body. The condition may occur in various forms:-

  • Alopecia areata:- The loss of hair in small patches
  • Alopecia totalis:- The loss of the entire hair on scalp
  • Alopecia universalis:- The loss of hair all over the body

Telogen effluvium:- This is a condition of temporary hair loss that usually happens after a stress, shock or a traumatic event. In this case, large amounts of hair may fall off. The condition is often temporary and the hair usually grows back. The person may notice hair falling off during the hair wash or while brushing hair. The causes may include:-

  • Severe stress
  • Poor diet
  • Sudden weight loss
  • Pregnancy
  • Child birth
  • Menopause
  • Certain drug interactions
  • Underlying health conditions
  • Metal toxicity

ANAGEN EFFLUVIUM:- It is a pathologic condition in which the growth phase hairs fall off. The person may have partial or complete baldness. The causes of this condition are the following:-

  • Infection
  • Drugs
  • Toxins, for eg. In case of chemotherapy
  • Radiation therapy
  • Auto-immune diseases, for eg. Arsenic poisoning, gold poisoning etc.

This is just a summary of the hair loss. Now let us see how we can cure hair loss with the help Ayurveda.

HAIR LOSS MANAGEMENT THROUGH AYURVEDA

First the cause of the hair loss is determined by the physician. Then according to the condition, the treatment is prescribed.

Ayurvedic treatments that can be done for Alopecia are:-

  • Siro udwarttanam
  • Nasyam
  • Abhyanga
  • Mild swedanam
  • Lekhanam
  • Virechanam
  • Raktamokshanam
  • Lepanam etc.

For other type of common hair falls:-

  • Mild virechanam
  • Nasyam
  • Siro abhyangam
  • Siro Basthi
  • Siro dhara etc.

Many internal medicines are also there to help manage hair fall.

Tips:-

  • Make sure that your diet includes the necessary nutrients.
  1. Proteins
  2. Biotin
  3. Vitamin C, A, D, B, E
  4. Omega  fatty acids
  5. Calcium
  6. Iron
  7. Zinc

That is make sure that your diet includes, eggs, citrus fruits, berries, spinach, fish, avocados, nuts, seeds, beans, meat etc.

  • Do not brush the hair when wet.

Dhanyamla Dhara

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Dhanyamla dhara

Dhanyamla Dhara comes under Swedana therapy (Sudation). Let us see what is Dhanyamla.

DHANYAMLA

Dhanyamla is a fermented medicated liquid. It has great anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties. It can help in the treatment of diseases caused by the Vata Dosha and Kapha Dosha. The Dhanyamla is not only used in Dharas, but also for Basthi, Lepanam etc.

HOW DHANYAMLA DHARA IS DONE?

The person is seated on dhroni. Thalam is kept on the vertex of the head. According to the condition of the person Abhyanga may or may not be done.

While doing the Dhara the medicine may fall in the eyes or ears. To prevent that usually the eyes are covered with cotton pads and the ears are plugged with cotton balls.

The Dhanyamla is made warm and poured on the body continuously. The position of the person is changed in between the procedure. After the specified time, the body of the person is wiped and the coverings of the eyes and ears are removed. After proper rest the person can take bath in lukewarm water.

INDICATIONS

The Dhanyamla Dhara is indicated in conditions like:-

  • Diseases of Vata Dosha and Kapha Dosha
  • Neuropathies, especially that related to Diabetes
  • Rheumatoid Arthritis
  • Rheumatic Fever etc

The person should consult a physician before undergoing the treatment. The person should follow the instructions of the physician.

Beauty Care Programme

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“Beauty lies in the eyes of the beholder”; a famous proverb that explains about beauty. Isn’t it true? Two persons will have different opinions about same thing.

Having a fair complexion is not the meaning of beauty. Some people think that their dark skin does not make them beautiful. This is the main reason why there is big market for the fairness products. Whatever may be the colour, if the skin is flawless, all the eyes will admire you.

Make your skin:-

  • Even toned
  • Even textured
  • Moisturised
  • Firm
  • Smooth
  • Glowing

These all words are familiar to you through various advertisements. There are many products in the market that promise the above said qualities for your skin.

 

  • Even Toned:- Sun tan!! One of the biggest problems that will make your skin difficult to be even toned. The holes that we are making in the ozone layer are making the sun rays more and more harmful. We cannot sit inside the walls throughout our entire life fearing the tanning.
  • Even Textured:- Can you imagine your skin evenly textured? How beautiful it will be!! Unfortunately a majority is suffering from certain problems like:-
  1. Pimples
  2. Acne
  3. Blackheads
  4. Whiteheads
  5. Blemishes
  • Moisturised:- Moisturising makes our skin soft, healthy and youthful. Dry skin makes you look aged and dull.
  • Firm:- Improper care and lack of proper nourishment makes the skin sagged.
  • Smooth:- How will you feel if your skin is rough while touching?? Irritating!! That smooth feel can only be achieved by proper care.
  • Glowing:- If your skin have the above said qualities it automatically becomes glowing.

 

It is easy to explain the qualities. But to achieve it … Have to work hard. We are not only talking about just the face, but the whole body. We can make it possible through chemicals or through natural ways. Natural ways are comparatively slower, but long standing and healthy.

In Ayurveda, there are many methods that will help your skin to be healthy and beautiful.

 

  • ABHYANGAM:- Oil massage. There are many medicated oils that will help improve the lustre and health of the skin. The physician will help you to choose the best oil for your skin.
  • SWEDANAM:- Sudation therapy.
  • LEPANAM:- Application of medicated paste for a specified time.
  • NASYAM:- The errhine therapy.

 

The treatments are decided according to the condition and the nature of the skin. The physician will guide you to care your skin even after the treatment.

 

 

 

How To Beat The Summer With The Help Of Ayurveda

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How to beat the summer with help of ayurveda

Summer! Summer! Summer!!! Heat, sun, tiredness… and there are more terms that will come to our mind when we hear the word “summer”. Especially, in India, summer is a period with above average temperatures. So now let us check how we can cope up with the summer with the help of Ayurveda.

In summer, the sun rays get more powerful day by day and can be destructive.  According to the Ayurveda, the Kapha will decrease and the Vata will increase consequently. So the person will have to change his entire regimen according to the change in climate.

First let us see the changes to be made in the diet:-

  • Do not use the foods that are salty, pungent and sour. Include the foods that are sweet in taste.
  • Take foods that are easy to digest, moist, cold and that have more water content.
  • The person should drink more water
  • Drinks made with cold water and sugar can be used in this season.
  • Avoid alcohol intake during summer as it may cause delusion, emaciation, debility and burning sensation.  If necessary it should be taken in very small quantity or should be diluted with water.
  • Rice preparations can be taken.
  • Meat soup that is not very thick can be taken.
  • Buttermilk mixed with pepper powder and sugar can help in relieving the heat.
  • Juices that are made from multiple fruits like grapes, dates etc. can be used.
  • Cold water that is stored in mud pot is best to overcome the heat.
  • Cold buffalo milk mixed with sugar is best in this season     

Other regimens to be changed in the summer:-

 

  • The person should avoid the exposure to sunlight.
  • During day time, the person can spend time under trees or a place without direct sun rays.
  • Reduce the sexual activities.
  • Wear soft and thin dresses. Choose the colors that are light.
  • Engage in activities that make mind happy.

 

So, summer? No need to worry at all. Live the summer with Ayurveda, stay happy and healthy.

                                                                                       

Why You Should Do Karkidaka Chikitsa or Monsoon Treatment

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Benefits of Karkidaka Chikilsa

Already we have seen about the Karkidaka Chikitsa or the treatments done in monsoon. Now it is the time to see a few points in detail.

ONLY MONSOON TREATMENTS?

Many may think why in the monsoon season, we should care about our body. Actually, in every season this care is to be given to the body. In Ashtanga hrdaya, a chapter is dedicated to explain the different types of climate, the changes that happens in our body in these climates and the regimen or the mode of living we should follow in these climates.

Then why we need “Karkidaka Chikitsa”? The doshas get vitiated more in this season due to the sudden change in climate. As we said earlier, summer’s heat is suddenly cooled down by the heavy monsoon. This makes a drastic change in the soil, atmosphere, water and even the food that we eat. This results in the vitiation of doshas. Apart from this, South India experience torrential rain and this explains the importance of Karkidaka Chikitsa in this part of the world.

WHAT ARE THE TREATMENTS TO BE DONE?

In fact, Panchakarmas are the main treatments to be done in order to eliminate the doshas. And we have seen earlier, there are many other treatments that are to be done before and after Panchakarmas.

The treatments are decided by the physician according to the condition and age of the person. A complete history analysis is done and after that the treatment is decided.

If the person is having any ailments the treatment protocol will be in such a way to heal the ailment, eliminate the vitiated doshas and improve the health. If the person is healthy, then the treatments will be arranged to eliminate the doshas and improve the health.

PANCHAKARMAS THAT ARE DONE IN MONSOON

The five treatments are Vamanam, Virechanam, Nasyam, Anuvasana Basthi and Asthapana Basthi. All these treatments can be done in monsoon according to the condition of the person, especially the Anuvasana Basthi.

Why Anuvasana Basthi is given importance? It is because that the main dosha that gets vitiated is Vata and the anuvasana basthi is the best treatment for eliminating the vata.

Now let us see in detail about the panchakarmas.

There are some pre-operative and post-operative procedures for Panchakarmas.

The Pre-operative procedures or Purvakarma include Dipana, Pachana, Snehana and Svedana.

The Post-operative procedures or Paschatkarma include Samsarjana Krama, Rasayanadi Karma and Samana Prayoga.

You can book these ayurveda packages here.

Let us have a look on these.

PURVAKARMAS/ PRE-OPERATIVE PROCEDURES

As we have discussed earlier, the main cause of a disease is the disturbed equilibrium of Doshas/ humors (Vata, Pitta, Kapha). So elimination of the vitiated dosha is done with the Panchakarma. Before doing this, our body should be prepared by the following porocedures:-

  • Dipana
  • Pachana
  • Snehana
  • Svedana

Dipana and Pachana:- By this process the digestion is enhanced. Internal medicines are given to the person that will enhance digestion.

Snehana:- Internal and external oleation. Through this procedure the body becomes moist, soft, oily and is liquefied. According to the disease and the condition of body the procedure is decided.

Internal oleation is the administration of oils or fats internally.

External oleation is the external application of oils or fats externally. These include Abhyanga ( Massage therapy) etc.

Snehana can also be done as the main procedure to cure specific diseases or for the nourishment of the body.

Svedana:- The sudation therapy. By this procedure the vitiated doshas are driven from the extremities or other parts of the body to the Koshta or to the digestive tract.

In this procedure the body is made to sweat or perspire. This helps to relieve stiffness and heaviness.

Svedana is the prime modality treatment for various disorders.

It includes various procedures like Kizhi, Dhara etc.

PRADHANA KARMA/ PANCHAKARMAS

Vamana:- Emesis therapy. This helps in the elimination of vitiated Kapha Dosha. The individual, after proper analysis, is administered with the emetic drugs at proper time.

Virechana:- Purgation therapy. This helps in the elimination of the vitiated Pitta Dosha. Here too, the procedure and the selection of drugs are done after thorough analysis.

Niruha Basthi:- Also known as Kashaya Basthi. Mainly different forms of Kashayas or decoctions are administered as enemas. But it is not merely an enema. It is a systemic therapy having a wide range of therapeutic effects. This helps in the elimination of the vitiated Vata Dosha.

Anuvasana Basthi:- Even though simple, when compared to Niruha Basthi, it is an important treatment. This is widely used in the treatment of the Vata related diseases.

Nasya:-  Errhine  therapy. Here the medicines are administered through the nose. This is usually done to eliminate doshas from sinus, throat, nose or head. Nasya is really effective in the treatment of various CNS disorders, facial palsy etc.

All the above mentioned Panchakarmas are not only curative but are also used as rejuvenative and preventive measures.

POST-OPERATIVE PROCEDURES/ PASCHAT KARMA

After the purification therapies, the digestion and body itself becomes weak. The post-operative procedures help to regain the strength and digestion. This includes planned diet and restricted activities along with internal medicines.

Follow Ayurveda and live a happy monsoon.

You can discover and book the best of Karkidaka Chikilsa here

Weight Management

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Are you obese? Or just over-weight? Confused?? So before talking about weight management , let us discuss about these two terms.

OBESITY AND OVER-WEIGHT

Do you know that Obesity is now one of the leading causes of death world-wide? It has become a pandemic. Even children are affected resulting in various diseases.

Ayurveda includes obesity under the 8 most undesirable physical constitutions.

HOW CAN WE KNOW WHETHER IT IS OBESITY OR OVER-WEIGHT?

You all might have heard about BMI or Body Mass Index. Here is how you calculate BMI:-

BMI = (Weight of the individual in Kg) / (Height in meter) power of 2

BMI (Kg/m2) CLASSIFICATION
From Upto
18.5 Underweight
18.5 25 Normal Weight
25 30 Over-Weight
30 35 Class I Obesity
35 40 Class II Obesity
40 Class III Obesity

 

The fat in body increases mainly in buttocks, abdomen and breast regions.

The fat is distributed in body generally as:-

  • Intra- abdominal fat – The deposition of fat in this region makes the body “apple – shaped”. This is common in men, person suffering from Type II diabetes, metabolic syndrome.
  • Subcutaneous Fat – The deposition of fat in this region makes the body “pear – shaped”.

CAUSES OF OBESITY AND OVER-WEIGHT

Main causes are listed below:-

  • The Genes
  • Endocrine Disorders and other diseases:- Variations of thyroid hormones, PCOS, Mental Disorders etc.
  • Changing Lifestyle:-
  • Increased intake of food in large quantities
  • Increased intake of food which is rich in fat
  • Decreased exercise
  • Sedentary lifestyle
  • Passive leisure activities

Ayurveda explain the causes as:-

  • Intake of heavy foods
  • Lack of Physical Exercise
  • Day sleep
  • Heredity

COMPLICATIONS OF OBESITY

Being obese can result in:-

  • Various life-style diseases like Type II Diabetes, Hypertension, Hyperlipidemia that can cause Coronary Heart Disease, Stroke etc.
  • The fat accumulation in Liver can result in conditions like Cirrhosis.
  • Many other complications like Exertional Dyspnoea, Sleep apnoea, Respiratory failure etc.
  • Varicose veins, Osteoarthritis
  • Low self-esteem, Depression
  • Colorectal cancer
  • Decrease in life-expectancy

The obesity results in increased mortality and morbidity.

Losing WEIGHT: Tackling Obesity

The health risks caused by obesity are largely reversible. Therefore managing body weight helps to reverse complications that arise from obesity. This can be attained by:-

    • Balanced and healthy eating pattern/ weight loss diet
    • Increased physical activity
    • Practicing Yoga/ aerobics

 

  • Internal and External Ayurvedic Medications

 

Ayurvedic Treatments

  • Udwartanam – “ Udwartanam Kashayadi Choorna Gatra Karshanam”

Udwartana is the reinforced rubbing of the body using medicated powders. A variant of Udwartana known as Udgharshanam – in which a mixture of medicated powders and oil are used to rub on the skin. These treatments are also beneficial in diabetes mellitus associated with obesity, various neurological conditions like MND etc.

  • Panchakarmas

A person who follows the Daily Regimen advised by Ayurveda can control weight and stay healthy.

 

REFERENCES:-

  • Davidson’s Principles and Practise of Medicine
  • Principles and Practice of Panchakarma
  • Charaka Samhitha

Stress Management

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Stress is a word that is familiar to almost everyone. We all complain about work related stress or stress related to studies etc. But, how to define Stress? Almost everyone knows how it feels like. We can explain stress as,“ a mental, emotional and physical response to a pressure or threat.”

Stress can be:-

  • The stress that creates positive impact – Eustress
  • The stress that creates negative impact – Distress

You might be thinking now is there a“stress creating positive impact”?? Yes. We can see this in detail.

Eustress:- The stress that creates positive impact. For example, winning a competition, success in work, marriage etc. These pressures also cause stress. Since the pressure is positive it creates only less impact on the individual.

Distress:- The stress that creates negative impact. For example, losing a competition, failure in work, divorce etc.

Similarly, we can classify stress based on the duration of the stress:-

Acute Stress:– In this, the body returns to the normal state within 90 minutes.

Chronic Stress:– In this, an emotional pressure that is suffered for a long period of time, on which the individual have little control or no control at all. Even though the stress hormones are released in acute stress, the amount released is low and duration of its action is for short-term. But in chronic stress, the long–term exposure to this hormones results in many complications like hypertension that may lead to heart disease, damaged body systems, suppression of immune system and decreased mental health.

WHAT HAPPENS WHEN YOU ARE STRESSED?

Here is a general diagrammatic representation of stress.

 

HOW DOES BODY RESPONDS?

The stress stimulates our body systems to create the response. The body systems involved are:-

  • Nervous System
  • Endocrine System
  • Immune System

The major effects of stress occur at physical, mental and emotional levels. Some of them are:-

  • Increase or decrease of appetite
  • Headache
  • Chest pain
  • Increased blood pressure
  • Depression
  • Tiredness
  • Frustration
  • Irritability
  • Increase in  anger
  • Insomnia
  • Nervousness
  • Irritable bowel

These are only some of the common and major effects. These may change depending on the individual.

Now let us see what Ayurveda says about stress:-

Ayurveda describes stress in the chapter where the mental disorders/problems are mentioned.

“Dhanakaanthaadi naashena………….

……………………………..vicheshtathe   II “

                                     (Ashtanga Hridaya: Uttara Sthana: Chapter-6: Verse-15-16)

It says that the loss of money, spouse etc. which can cause pain that is unbearable, for a long period of time, can cause mental problems.

By this the person becomes:-

  • Pale
  • Timid
  • Faints
  • Weeps without any reason
  • Always talks about the lost
  • Grief-stricken
  • Nervous
  • Insomnia

HOW CAN WE MANAGE STRESS?

Stress is getting common nowadays. Majority of the population suffer from chronic stress in one way or other. The condition gets worse when they do not know how to manage the situation. In Ayurveda, stress is managed through:-

  • Consoling
  • Supporting
  • Practising Yoga
  • Pacifying treatments like Sirodhara, Sirobasthi, Talam, Siroabhyanga etc.
  • Internal medicines prescribed by the physician.
  • Meditation
  • Following the Ayurvedic Daily Regimens
  • Panchakarma

 

Let us take a look on the external treatments mentioned above:-

Talam:- The application of medicated paste on the scalp for a specific period of time. The paste is chosen according to the condition of the patient.

Sirodhara:- In this procedure, medicated oils, decoctions etc. chosen after the careful examination of the individual, is poured continuously on head, for a specific period of time, in specific temperature and force.

Sirobasthi:- In this procedure, a well-like structure is made on head (over the scalp), in which the medicated oil, at specific temperature, is poured, and made to stand there for specific period of time.

Siroabhyanga:- In this the head is massaged with medicated oil.

Along with the above mentioned treatments Panchakarma is also done as per the condition of the patient.

These are general treatments for stress. An individual should consult a physician to analyse the condition and the treatment is selected based on the physician’s evaluation. If needed, internal medicines should taken as per physician’s advice.

Check out WellnessLoka’s offerings to manage stress – here 

 

Ayurvedic Way Of Life

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Now we know that Ayurveda is not just a system of medicine but a Science of Life. Ayurveda guides us to a healthy, happy and better life. It includes many physical, mental and social guidelines to be followed. Let us take a look.

1.DINACHARYA / DAILY REGIMEN
Getting up Early:- It is a quite accepted fact that waking up early in the morning is a healthy habit. As per Ayurveda a healthy person should follow the routine to protect his life.
Voiding faeces and urine
Cleaning of mouth:- Ayurveda recommends to clean your mouth using the brushes made of the twigs of certain herbs with the qualities to protect the tongue, teeth etc. Cleaning should be done without hurting the gums. Those who are suffering from mouth ulcers, dyspnoea, indigestion etc are not advised to do this.
Application of Collyrium
Cleaning of Nose using Medicated Nasal Drops
Gargling
Inhalation of Smoke from burning Medicines
Chewing of Betel Leaves:- Ayurveda strictly contraindicates this for those who have wounds, bleeding disorders, those who are affected by any kind of poison etc.
Oil Massage/Abhyanga:- Ayurveda recommends daily oil massage as it wards off old age, tiredness and vitiation of Vata Dosha. It provides good vision, nourishment to the body, long life, good sleep and good and healthy skin. The whole body should be massaged along with head. But those who are suffering from diseases caused by Kapha Dosha, who have just completed the purificatory therapies and those who are suffering from indigestion, should not follow this.
Exercise:- Those who are strong and daily consume fat-rich food, should do exercise, especially in cold and spring seasons, to half their strength or capability. Others are advised to do exercises mildly. Regular exercise will make the body light, flexible and strong, improves digestion, and decreases fat, stable and distinct physique. But those who are suffering from diseases caused by Vata and Pitta, children, aged and those having indigestion should avoid this.
Massage using Medicated Powders:- This helps in reducing Kapha, reduces fat, gives stability and good skin.
Bath/ Snana:- Bathing will increases appetite, life span, energy and strength. This will also remove itching, dirt, tiredness, sweat, thirst and burning sensation. Ayurveda suggests bathing the body in warm water as it bestows strength. But using warm water on head will affect hair and eyes. Bathing is not suggested for those who suffer from diseases of eye, mouth and ears, diarrhoea, flatulence, running nose, indigestion and those who have just had food.
Good Conduct:- Every day to day activities and hardships that each and every human being does aims ultimately at happiness. When we live in the right path with good moral conducts, we will achieve the happiness.
Helping the needy
Respecting elders
Following the path of non-violence
Showing affection
Speaking wisely
Giving out positive energy and feel to others
Indulging in good activities
An intelligent person will learn a lot from this world. But only a wise one knows which is good and to be followed.

2. RITU CHARYA/ SEASONAL REGIMEN
Each season is entirely different. The changes in seasons will create changes in the whole environment and our body. Even our energy and health too will change according to the seasons. When proper care is not given according to the changing seasons, it can cause many diseases or may become the pre-disposing factors of various diseases. Ayurveda gives a detailed description about each season and the regimens to be followed in them.

3. URGES
Ayurveda classifies the urges that are not to be suppressed and to be suppressed.
Urges that are not to be suppressed:- Flatus, faeces, urine, sneeze, thirst, hunger, sleep, cough, breathing out of exertion, yawning, vomiting etc. These urges should be voided in decent manners. Suppressing such urges will result in various diseases.
Urges that can be suppressed:- Greed, envy, Hatred, jealousy and unwanted desires. Along with this, a person should have good control over his sense organs.

4. DIET
A wholesome diet is to be followed to protect our life. Ayurveda describes about the foods that are mutually incompatible. Healthy food, taken in healthy quantity provides good health.