introduction to yoga

INTRODUCTION


Yamas and Niyamas
Yoga is more than just a physical discipline. It is a way of life—a rich philosophical path. And the yamas (restraints) and niyamas (observances) are ten good common-sense guidelines for leading a healthier, happier life for bringing spiritual awareness into a social context. They are for you to think about and ponder over with a rational mind, because yoga is not about mindlessly accepting externally imposed rules—it is about finding the truth for yourself—and `connecting` with it.

Yamas:
There are many interpretations of and opinions about the yamas and niyamas. While the ancient Indian text, the Bhagavata Purana assigns 12 yogic restraints the Parashar Smriti, another text, puts forward ten. But the yamas as described in Patanjali`s Yoga Sutra are only five, which are also known as the great universal vows or the sarvabhauma maha vratas, because they are not limited by either class, creed, time or circumstances. They are the guidelines for how we interact with the outer world, the social disciplines to guide us in our relationships with others. These five are:

• Ahimsa (non-violence),
• Satya (truthfulness),
• Asteya (non-stealing),
• Brahmacharya (celibacy) and
• Aparigraha (non-covetousness)

According to the Yajnavalkya Samhita, ahimsa or non-violence is the awareness and practice of non-violence in thought, speech and action. It advocates the practices of compassion, love, understanding, patience, self-love, and worthiness.

Patanjali describes truthfulness as: "To be in harmony with mind, word and action, to conduct speech and mind according to truth, to express through speech and to retain it in the intellect what has been seen, understood or heard." A perfectly truthful person is he who expresses in his speech exactly what he thinks in his mind and in the end acts according to it.

Non-stealing or asteya is the third constituent of the yamas of Ashtanga Yoga. It upholds forgoing the unauthorized possession of thought, speech and action. Asteya stands against covetousness and envy. It advocates the cultivation of a sense of completeness and self-sufficiency in order to progress beyond base cravings.

The Vedas, Smritis and Puranas all glorify the fourth constituent of celibacy. It is believed to be a behavior, which brings man nearer to the Divine. This yama believes in avoiding all sensual pleasures, whether mental, vocal or physical.

The literal meaning of apigraha, the fifth yama, is the non-accumulation of worldly objects, caused by covetousness and attachment. The commentator Vyasa says that this last state of yama is attained when one remains totally detached from sensual pleasures of all kinds and so effectively refrains from committing himsa or violence of any sort.

Niyamas:
The niyamas are the second constituents of Ashtanga Yoga. How we interact with ourselves, our internal world. The niyamas are about self-regulation—helping us maintain a positive environment in which to grow. Their practice harnesses the energy generated from the cultivation of the earlier yamas. According to sage Yajnavalkya, there are ten niyamas and the Bhagavad Gita lists 11 constituents. But Patanjali names only five:

• Shaucha or purity,
• Santosha or contentment,
• Tapa or austerity,
• Swadhyaya or self-education and
• Ishwar-Pranidhan or meditation on the Divine

Shaucha implies both external as well as internal purity. In the words of sage Manu, water purifies the body; truthfulness the mind; true knowledge the intellect and the soul is purified by knowledge and austerity. It advocates the practices of intellectual purity, purity of speech and of the body.

The second niyama is that of contentment, which is described as not desiring more than what one has earned by his honest labor. This state of mind is about maintaining equanimity through all that life offers. Santosha involves the practice of gratitude and joyfulness—maintaining calm at all costs. This state of mind does not depend on any external causes.

Austerity, the third niyama, is described in Yoga philosophy as power to stand thirst and hunger, cold and heat, discomforts of place and postures, silent meditation and ritual fasts. It also maintains that the perfect man is he who practices both mental as well as physical austerity.

According to the commentator Vyas, self-education or swadhyaya consists of scriptural studies. The scripture being, the Vedas and Upanishads together with the recitation of the Gayatri Mantra and the Om mantra.

Commentators describe Ishwar-Pranidhan, the last of the niyamas, as the dedication of all our actions, performed either by intellect, speech or body, to the Divine. The results of all such actions are by definition, therefore, dependent upon Divine decision. The mortal mind can simply aspire to realize the Divine through dedication, purification, tranquilization and concentration of the mind. This Divine contemplation spills over to all aspects of the yogi`s life.

The Benefits of Practicing Yamas and Niyamas:
The yamas and niyamas help in managing our energy in an integrative manner, complementing our outer life to our inner development. They help us view ourselves with compassion and awareness. They help in respecting the values of this life, in balancing our inner growth with outer restraint. In short they help us to lead a conscious life.

Yamas and niyamas are not about right and wrong. They are about being honest with the true Self. Living according to these principles are about living our lives in a better way, about moving towards an understanding, about making it possible to `connect` with the Divine.

Yogasanas
A yogasana is a posture in harmony with one`s inner consciousness. It aims at the attainment of a sustained and comfortable sitting posture to facilitate meditation. Asanas also help in balancing and harmonizing the basic structure of the human body, which is why they have a range of therapeutic uses too.

Functions of Yogasanas
Asanas basically perform five functions:

• Conative,
• Cognitive,
• Mental,
• Intellectual and
• Spiritual.

Conative action is the voluntary exercise of the organs of action. The asanas being the main yogic instrument of balancing the body, they consist of various physical postures, which are designed to release tension, improve flexibility and maximize the flow of vital energy. The purpose of the asanas is to create a flow of positive energy so that our concentration is directed within ourselves and the mind is able to perceive (parokshya jnana) the effects of our purposive action. That is cognitive action.

When the earlier two actions are fused, our mind`s discriminative faculty guides these organs to perform the asanas more correctly. The resultant rhythmic energy flow and awareness leads to a mental state of pure joy (ananda). Physical postures, therefore, end up affecting the various interrelated channels (nadis) of the mind-body complex. And ultimately the performance of a perfect yogasana leads to the absolute intellectual absorption of the mind on a single task (dharana), which in turn leads to the fusion of the individual spirit with the Divine Self (dhyana).

Benefits of Yogasanas
The regular practice of yogasanas has an immense amount of therapeutic value. Besides various physiological benefits, they positively affect our minds, our life force energies as well as our creative intelligence.

Regular practice helps to keep our body fit, controls cholesterol level, reduces weight, normalizes blood pressure and improves heart performance. Physical fitness thus achieved leads to reduction of physical stress and greater vitality. Asanas harmonize our pranic ability and mental energy flow by clearing any blockages in the subtle body leading to mental equilibrium and calmness. They make the mind strong thus enabling our human body to suffer pain and unhappiness stoically and with fortitude.

Various Categories of Yogasanas
Consummate mastery over the entire gamut of asanas is no doubt time-consuming, but what is of vital importance is the will to remain in the present moment and to let both the mind and body relax completely.

The various categories of asanas are:
• Standing Asanas,
• Forward Bending Asanas,
• Supine Asanas,
• Inverted Asanas,
• Abdominal and Lumbar Asanas,
•Twisting Asanas,
• Back Bending Asanas and
•Balancing Asanas.

Standing Asanas:
Beginners should start with these as they bring elasticity in joints and muscles and build up stamina and physical stability. This constitutes the most basic training in the early stages of yoga practice. Some basic standing poses are, Tadasana, Utthita Trikonasana, Virabhadrasana, Ardha Chandrasana and Utthita Parsvakonasana.

Forward Bending Asanas:
In these postures the posterior half of the body is stretched. These prepare you to proceed further in yoga and bring consistency in the development of physical and mental pliability. Examples of such asanas are, Upavisthakonasana and Paschimotanasana.

Sitting and Supine Asanas:
Sitting upright and supine extending positions help a sadhaka prepare physically and mentally for pranayama. Some of them are, Baddhakonasana, Supta Baddhakonasana, Supta Padangusthanasana, Padmasana, Vajrasana, Simhasana, Virasana and so on.

Inverted Asanas:
These help recover from everyday stress. They give vitality, mental balance and emotional stability. These are Adho Mukha Svanasa and Urdhva Mukha Svanasa.

Abdominal and Lumbar Asanas:
These tone and massage the abdominal organs and strengthen the pelvic and lumbar areas. Bharadvajasana and Marichyasana are some examples of such asanas.

Twisting Asanas:
It consists of lateral stretching and twisting of the spine, toning the internal organs and reaching new horizons while tranquilizing the mind. These are, Ardha Matsyendrasana and Jathara Parivartanasana.

Back Bending Asanas:
These bring physical and mental sharpness and alertness. The postures are the opposite of forward bends as are the effects. In forward bends the posterior spine is extended, bringing consistency and mental peace, whereas in back bends the anterior spine is extended and stretched. The effect is invigorating and enlivening. Such asanas are, Ustrasana, Bhujangasana and Matsyasana.

Balancing Asanas:
These strengthen the arms and wrists and exercise the abdominal organs. They also make the body feel light and help attain a good bearing. Salamba Sirsasana, Niralamba Sarvangasana and Salamba Sarvangasana are some of the balancing asanas.

Pranayama
`Pranayama` is a compound term (`prana` and `yama`) meaning the maintenance of prana in a healthy throughout one`s life. More than a breath-control exercise, pranayama is all about controlling the life force or prana. Ancient yogis, who understood the essence of prana, studied it and devised methods and practices to master it. These practices are better known as pranayama. Since breath or prana is basic to life, the practice of pranayama helps in harnessing the prana in and around us, and by deepening and extending it, pranayama leads to a state of inner peace.

According to Hatha Yoga, pranayamas can be classified under:
• Sahita Kumbhaka,
• Surya Bhedi,
• Ujjayi,
• Sitali,
• Bhastrika,
• Bhramari,
• Murchha and
• Kewali.

The first is a breath retention technique, which gives agility, strength and flexibility to the body. They also quieten the mind and the sense organs besides enabling the meditator to control his hunger and thirst.

The Surya Bhedi pranayama consists of inhaling through the right nostril and exhaling through the left. This practice promotes good digestion and through perspiration, it purges the body of all its impurities.

Ujjayi pranayama involves the travel of breath between the nose and the heart only. It acts like an expectorant and increases digestion together with removing all impurities of nerves as well as thoughts.

Bhramari pranayama involves a very concentrated and fixed breathing exercise. It helps in strengthening one`s breath besides quietening the mind and increasing the powers of concentration. This breathing technique is very helpful in the last meditative stage of samadhi.

Murchha pranayama is an extreme form of breath retention, which only experienced yogis can achieve. This practice quietens the mind and helps it to reach the near-unconscious state.

The last technique of Kewali pranayama, is a breath retention technique in which, the yogi stops both inhalation as well as exhalation. This form balances inhalation and exhalation besides helping the mind to concentrate better.

Benefits of Pranayama
The practices of pranayama—the correct breathing technique helps to manipulate our energies. Most of us breathe incorrectly, using only half of our lung capacity. Pranayama is a technique, which re-educates our breathing process, helps us to release tensions and develop a relaxed state of mind. It also balances our nervous system and encourages creative thinking. In addition, by increasing the amount of oxygen to our brain it improves mental clarity, alertness and physical well being.

When practiced along with yogasanas the benefits of pranayama are more pronounced. According to Patanjali`s Yoga Sutra, pranayama enables the mind to acquire the capacity to concentrate on any given object of attention. It also says that scientific breathing helps in unveiling true knowledge from the darkness of ignorance. But it is eminently advisable to be aware of all the do`s and don`ts of pranayama before practicing them.

Various Stages of Pranayama
The following are the stages of pranayama:

• Inhalation or puraka,
• Exhalation or rechaka,
• Stambhavritti pranayama and
• Bahyabhyantarakshepi pranayama.
Puraka or inhalation techniques are about regular and controlled inhalation. It also teaches regulating the entire breathing process and reducing the number of inhalations per minute. Rechaka or exhalation exercises teach slow and ordered breathing besides reducing the number of inhalations and exhalations per minute. The third stage consists of retaining the breath after stopping natural inhalation and exhalation. The last stage of pranayama is about converting both exhalation and inhalation into retention and storing the retained breathe in various internal organs for various lengths of time.

Pratyahara
Pratyahara involves rightly managing the senses and going beyond them instead of simply closing and suppressing them. It involves reining in the senses for increased attention rather than distraction. Pratyahara may be practiced with mantra meditation and visualization techniques.

Benefits of Pratyahara
It is essential to practice pratyahara for achieving the three meditative stages of dharana, dhyana and samadhi. Perfecting this technique of yoga is also essential in order to break out from the eternal cycle of rebirths.

Dharana
The last three limbs of Ashtanga Yoga are the three essential stages of meditation. Dharana involves developing and extending our powers of concentration. This consists of various ways of directing and controlling our attention and mind-fixing skills, such as concentrating on the chakras or turning inwards.

Dhyana
Dhyana is the state of meditation, when the mind attains the ability to sustain its attention without getting distracted. Strictly speaking, unlike the other six limbs of yoga, this is not a technique but rather a state of mind, a delicate state of awareness. This state rightfully precedes the final state of samadhi.

Samadhi
Samadhi, or total absorption, is the ability to become one with the True Self and merge into the object of concentration. In this state of mind, the perceiver and the object of perception unite through the very act of perception—a true unity of all thought and action. This is the acme of all yogic endeavors—the ultimate ` yoga` or connection between the individual and the universal Soul!

Patanjali`s Yoga Sutra categorizes and grades the levels of samadhi in the first chapter or Samadhi Pada:

• Samprajnata Samadhi or distinguished contemplation and
• Asamprajnata Samadhi or non-distinguished contemplation,
• Savitarka Samadhi or deliberated absorption and
• Nirvitarka Samadhi or non-deliberated absorption,
• Savichara Samadhi or reflective meditation and
• Nirvichara Samadhi or non-reflective meditation,
• Sabija Samadhi, where the mind continues to carry seeds of earthly impressions and
• Nirbija Samadhi, where each seed of earthly impressions have been erased.

BASICS OF YOGA

BASICS OF YOGA
The principles of yoga, called Yogasutra, were given by Patanjali, a saint philosopher and a physician, who lived around 3 centuries before Christ. He is known as the founder of yoga. These sutras are timeless and hold true even today. They help you to lead a blissful life by improving your physical, emotional and spiritual well-being.

Who can practice Yoga?

Yoga is a series of exercises that is performed to improve health and flexibility. People of any age, sex or any fitness level can practice yoga. The beauty of yoga is that it is highly flexible, so you can modify yoga techniques to meet your need. If you have mobility problems, use chair to perform yoga. Office-goers can try the deep-breathing practices to relieve their stress.

Sportsmen and physically active people can use the strengthening techniques to enhance their activities. Children can increase their attention span by using yoga techniques. Seniors can use yoga techniques to improve the body mobility and the flexibility of their joints. Doctors recommend yoga practices for the people with cardiac problems.

What is yoga?

Yoga comes from the Sanskrit word “yuj” which means to unite or to join. Even though, people tend to think that yoga is a series of exercises with twisted body poses, it is not so. Basically, it helps you to connect with your inner spirit, which is essentially divine and is connected to the universal spirit or God.

Types of yoga’s

Although people associate yoga with only exercises or asanas as they are commonly called, yoga is of many types. The most popular type is Hatha Yoga.


This type of yoga contains various types of asanas and is beneficial in improving the body strength and flexibility. Karma yoga teaches you the way of right action without expecting the fruits of labour and offering the activity as the service to almighty. You learn devotion and unconditional love for the divine by Bhakti Yoga. Answer to your deeper questions like: who am I, Where do I come from, - come from Jnana Yoga. Control your mind and be free from worldly attachments by practicing Raja Yoga. Kundalini Yoga releases the energy present in the chakras or energy centers in your body by teaching you deep breathing. Tantric Yoga worships the feminine energy and teaches you to look at your body as a source of divine.

Benefits of yoga

Unlike modern day exercises, which concentrate only on the body or on the mind, yoga techniques provide a holistic approach towards your welfare. Asanas help you to improve your strength and flexibility, so that you can carry out your daily activities unhindered. Deep breathing techniques help in removal of toxins in the body and aid in relaxation. Yoga can be a great weight loss and toning tool. It helps in healing and nourishing the body. Meditation calms your mind and gives you clarity of thought.

The major benefit of yoga is that it doesn’t need any special place

Popular Beaches of India
Beaches in India provide the most tempting combination of sun, sand, sea and surf that is too hard to resist for any beach lover and water sport adventurer. When it comes to beach holidays in India the choice is unending. Still the foremost choices of beach travel in India include the beautiful sea shores of Goa, where the tropical sun bathed beaches of Anjuna, Baga & Dona Paula have something for every visitor. Other beaches such as Kovalam, Marina and Juhu, not just focus on tourism they are also venues for recreation and entertainment for the local population and the outstation tourists.

» Anjuna Beach in Goa » Baga Beach in Goa
» Dona Paula Beach, Goa » Calangute Beach, Goa
» Kovalam Beach in Kerala » Marina Beach, Goa
» Juhu Beach, Maharashtra

Anjuna Beach, Goa

With its fluorescent painted palm trees and full moon parties, Anjuna Beach, 8-km west of Mapusa, is one of the most popular beaches of Goa. Most people's reasons for coming to Anjuna are the same as they were in the 1970s: dancing and lying on the beach slurping tropical fruit. While browsing in the area have a day trip to the famous flea market of Anjuna, a major shopping hangout, beside the beach.

Anjuna attracts a variety of tourists touring Goa, and the crowd includes from the happy go lucky kinds to overlanders, monks, defiant ex-hippies, gentle lunatics, artists, artisans, seers, searchers etc. Even those particular kinds of tourists who prefer to travel within the limit of their tour itinerary, cannot resist visiting this charming beach site.

Tropical Sights Of Anjuna Beach
Bathing is generally safer at Anjuna than at most of the nearby resorts, especially at the more peaceful southern end of the beach, where a rocky headland keeps the sea calm and the undertow to a minimum. Taking long walks under the moon on the silver sands of this beach is something that any visitor would love to do at Anjuna, beside the favourite pastime of watching the sun going down.

At the north of the Anjuna Flea market ground, the beach area broadens, running in an uninterrupted kilometre long stretch of steeply shelving sand to a low red cliff. The village bus park lies on top of this high ground, where small cafes, bars and Kashmiri handicraft stalls are lined, making a perfect hangout zone near the beach site. Every lunch hour, tour parties from Panjim also pull-up in here for a beer, before heading home again, leaving the localities and tired tourists to watch the sunset peacefully and relax a bit.

Visiting Time
The tourist season in Anjuna starts in early November, when most of the long staying regulars show up. During the Christmas and New Year rush, the village and beach site is busy with a mixed crowd of round the world backpackers and tourists from all over India, attracted by the promise of the big beach parties.

In off-season however, Anjuna has a surprisingly simple unhurried atmosphere. Visitors can also opt to stay at the large package tour hotels and beach resorts that have appeared over the past couple of years near the Anjuna beach site.

Entertainment & Amusements At Anjuna
Thanks to the kill-joy attitude reputation, Anjuna is a rave-venue for big parties that take place over here from time to time, especially around the Christmas-New Year full moon period. At other times, Anjuna's nightlife centres on the Shore Bar, in the middle of the beach, which has a pounding sound system and play some real funky music that always keep the atmosphere alive.

The biggest crowds show up accompanied by the latest ambient trance mixes from London. The music gains pace as the evening wears on winding up before midnight, when there's an exodus over to the Guru Bar, further up the beach, or to the Primrose Café in Vagator, both of which stay open until after midnight.

The Alcove, over looking Ozran Vagator Beach, is another worthwhile nightspot to hangout near Anjuna. More mainstream musical entertainment is on offer at Temptations, in the Red Cab Inn just below Starco's crossroads, where Indian classical recitals and guitar based cover bands feature with fire dancers on Mondays.

Eating Out Places At Anjuna
Both the beachfront and village at Anjuna are flooded with good places to eat and drink. Most are simple semi open-air, thatched palm leaf affairs, specializing in fish and western food. All serve cold beer, invariably with thumping techno music in the background. On the beach, tourists can buy fresh fruits, including watermelons, pineapples and locally grown coconuts from the local vendors.

Dona Paula Beach, Goa



At the place where two of Goa's famous rivers meet the Arabian Sea is the secluded bay of Dona Paula with a fine view of the Marmagoa Harbour. This beach of Goa carries with it an aura of both romance and myth - haunted by Dona Paula de Menezes; tourists throng the Dona Paula beach not only in search of the deceased beloved, but also to indulge in water sports on the clear waters. The Dona Paula Beach offers an opportunity to the tourists to have a sunbath and enjoy water scootering and motar boat rides.

Exotic Locales Surrounding Dona Paula
7-km from Panjim, nestled on the south side of the rocky, hammer-shaped headland that divides the Zuari and Mandovi estuaries, this former fishing village of has now become a commercialized beach resort. Beside the beach water sports attractions, do visit the official residence of the Governor of Goa, known as Cabo Raj Bhavan, situated on the westernmost tip of Dona Paula. Along the road leading to this place lies the ruins of the small military cemetery the British built at their brief occupation of the Cabo, to deter the French from invading Goa.

The Legend Of Dona Paula
Named after Dona Paula de Menezes, the Dona Paula beach is popularly known as the "Lovers Paradise" due to a myth that has been attached to this place. According one legend the Viceroy's daughter after facing objections from her family about her love affair with a poor fisherman jumped of the cliff.

Another legend says that punished for captivating Francisco de Tavora, the Count of Alvor with her charm the Viceroy's daughter was pushed off a cliff to drown in the waters below. Her irrepressible spirit still continues to haunt every visitor with legends of her lovers. She is even supposed to have been seen emerging from moonlit waves wearing only a pearl necklace.

Attractions Around Dona Paula Beach
star to Bethlehem to greet the newborn Jesus.
The Reis Magos Church: Among the places of interest at the Dona Paula beachside, there's the Reis Magos Church considered to be one of the oldest churches built in Goa. It is dedicated to the three Magi (the wise men of the East)-Gaspar, Melchior, and Balthazar who, according to a legend, were guided by a
Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary: The Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary is situated on the western tip of the island of Choro, along the Mandovi River, about 9-km from Dona Paula beach. Spread over 2-sq-kms, this sanctuary is a mangrove forest. Local and migratory birds are found here throughout the year, making it a bird watcher's paradise.

National Oceanography Institute: Another nearby attraction of the Dona Paula beach site is the National Oceanography Institute. Set up in the 1960s, the National Oceanography Institute delves not only upon marine biology, but incorporates almost all the major branches of coastal and marine oceanography. The major attraction of the institute is its Marine Biology Museum and Taxonomy Reference Center.

Nearby Beach Sites
Two more beaches are also located within the proximity of the Dona Paula Beach. These are the Miramir beach, which lies 4-km north of Dona Paula, and the Vainguinim Beach, which is situated 1-km west of the beach side.

Shopping At Dona Paula
Shopping can become a much more enjoyable experience at the beaches of Goa. Dona Paula is one such place where several shops are located along the beachside, selling variety of goods ranging from eatables to clothes. Fishermen-turned-local vendors also sell straw hats, lace handkerchiefs, and spices in these shops. Feni and port wine, which are the two Goan liquor specialties are a must buy and local liquor is easily available. If you are interested in buying Indian handicrafts and jewellery, then visit the Indian Arts Emporium in Dona Paula.


Kovalam Beach, Kerala
Situated on the Malabar Coast along the Kerala shoreline is a small village of Kovalam. This quiet town of Kovalam came on the tourist map, when its beautiful and secluded beaches were discovered.

Today Kovalam has become one of the most popular beach hangouts in India. Kovalam means a grove of coconut trees and truly the coconut trees along the beaches gives it a ravishing look.


Locales Surrounding Kovalam
The palm-fringed bays of Kovalam in secluded coconut groves, promise a relaxed stay. The unforgettable image of Kovalam is that of the coconut-palms-lined high rock promontory that cuddles the calm and wide expanse of the blue waters. This marvellous beach is a tourist's dream come true.

The Three Beaches Of Kovalam
The beaches of Kovalam can be divided in three parts. The southern most beach and the most popular from the three, is the Lighthouse Beach. Further south on the beach one can have a spectacular view of the Vizhinzam mosque, but photography is prohibited here.

The middle beach is called Hawah. Each morning this beach acts as a base for the local fisherman. The northern most beach, Samudra, is least affected of all by the changing times. It is dotted with few rudimentary wooden fishing vessels.


Water Sports At Kovalam
Kovalam is a natural bay ideal for kayaking, swimming, surfing and skiing. One can swim in the shallow blue water and have a sunbath in the exotic tropical sun can adorn you with a good suntan. The coast at many places is lined with beautiful patches of coral reefs or you can crest the waves on logs of lashed woods on catamarans.

Leisure & Entertainment Activities At Kovalam Beach
When you are tired of aquatics, swimming or sunbathing, you can explore the handicrafts, jewellery and cloth shops spread along the waterfront. Not to speak of the delightful seafood fare including lobsters available at the beach-side restaurants of Kovalam.

In the evening the quiet atmosphere of the Kovalam beachside is enlivened by Kathakali performances, the classical dance-drama of Kerala. At present Kovalam is developed not only as a beach resort, but also as a Yoga and health center. One can have Ayurvedic massages and oil baths or learn in detail the methods of doing Yoga and meditation taught by experts.

From Kovalam, you can go for a backwater cruise to the beautiful countryside of Kerala paddling country boats, enjoying its lush greenery. A few hotels even offer houseboats, country boats and catamarans for the tourists at reasonable rates.


Juhu Beach, Maharashtra



In Maharashtra Beach travelling pleasant throughout the year. In particular, the capital city of Mumbai is blessed with many beaches in its vicinity, that present a breather to the local population as well as act as attractive tourist option for those visiting from outside. One such beach site is Juhu, one of the largest and frequently visited beaches of India.

Leisure & Entertainment At Juhu
Located 18-km north of the city centre, it's a major beach site on the shores of Arabian Sea and is one of the posh localities of Mumbai where one can find the bungalows of the famous film personalities of Bollywood. It's also a favourite shooting site among the filmmakers as many film shootings are also held over here.

On the southern end of the Juhu beach one can find many Luxury hotels and apartments, which are regarded as a favourite haunt of Mumbai's movers and shakers. The beach, which almost seems deserted during weekdays, always tends to get very crowded on weekends.

On weekends one can take the pleasure of horse and donkey rides, dancing monkeys, acrobats, cricket matches, toy sellers and every other type of Indian beach entertainment. Vendors ply on the beach calling attention to their wares, which are mostly souveneirs like T-shirts and cute little Indian dolls made from seashells.

Eating Joints At Juhu Beach
Generally it is not a very good place to swim, but it's an ideal snack joint, with various food stalls. If you would like to try out Bhelpuri or a Kulfi in Mumbai, Juhu is the place to be. If you want a more fancy excursion, visit Juhu's many five star hotels, for a steaming cup of coffee and a splendid view of the coast. The government run Juhu Centaur also has a 24-hour coffee shop with a view of the sea.

Attractions Around Juhu Beach
Versova Beach:Versova Beach is the nearby attraction located towards the north of Juhu, which is a home to Mumbai's largest Koli fishing community.


Baga Beach is part of a 30-km stretch of beach coastline along the west coast of Goa by the Arabian Sea, 10-km west of Mapusa, is basically an extension of Calangute beach. The beach begins at Fort Aguada continues as Sinquerim beach, then as Candolim Beach and merges into Calangute beach and then to Baga beach and then Anjuna Beach and then to Vagator Beach finally ending at Chapora Beach and Fort.

Exotic Locales Around Baga
Lying in the rocky, wooded headland, the only difference between this far northern end of the Baga beach and its more congested center of Calangute Beach is that the scenery of this beach site is more varied, unspoiled and scenic.

Water Sports At Baga
The quiet atmosphere and isolated location of Baga, beside the scenic beauty that surrounds it, with the creek, the Retreat House perched on the hill and the lack of local tourist buses all have contributed to the beach being a favourite of the beach lovers. Baga beach is more popular with western tourists who love to use it as a base for water sports and fishing in the area.

Eating Out Places At Baga Beach
Baga has arguably the best range of restaurants in Goa, from standard beach shacks to swish pizzerias and terrace cafes serving real espresso coffee. Tourists can opt for a candlelit dinner at the beachside, or a traditional Goan meal at the shacks and restaurants offering continental as well as tempting seafood.

Entertainment & Leisure At Baga Beach
Thanks to the droves of predominantly British package tourists who stay here, Baga's nightlife is the liveliest in the area. Most of the travellers end up at Tito's, which has the only dance floor and hefty sound system outside a big hotel for miles. Women are allowed in for free, but men and couples have to pay.


Calangute Beach, Goa



A 45 minute bus ride up to the coast from the city of Panjim bring one to Calangute, Goa's busiest and most commercialized resort, and the flagship of the state government's bid for a bigger slice of India's package-tourist pie. This peaceful fishing village was a favourite hideout of the hippies in the 70's and 80's. Today, Calangute beach symbolise Goa's reputation as a haven for beach and coastal splendour

Shopping At Calangute Beach
The road from the town to the beach is lined with Kashmiri-run handicraft boutiques and Tibetan stalls selling Himalayan curios and jewellery. The quality of the goods - mainly Rajasthani, Gujarati and Karnatakan textiles - is generally high. Haggle hard and don't be afraid to walk away from a heavy sales pitch - the same stuff crops up every Wednesday at Anjuna's flea market.

Leisure Activities At Calnagute
BeachThe beach itself is nothing special, with steeply shelving sand, but is more than large enough to accommodate the huge numbers of high-season visitors.

Head fifteen minutes or so south of the main beachfront area, towards the rows of old wooden boats moored below the dunes. In this virtually hawker-free zone, one' will only come across teams of villagers hauling in hand nets at high tide or fishermen fixing their tack under bamboo sun shakes.

Water Sports At Calangute
Calangute also makes a perfect beach site if you want to indulge in some water sports activities. Parasailing, water skiing and wind surfing at the Calangute beach starts in the afternoon when the wind is blowing just in the right direction and it goes on till sunset.

Eating Out Joints & Restaurants
Calangute's bars and restaurants are mainly grouped around the entrance to the beach and along the Baga road. As with most Goan resorts, the accent is firmly on tempting seafood, though many places also serve vegetarian dishes. Western breakfasts also feature prominently at some of the restaurants in Calangute.

Nightlife & Entertainment At Calangute
Calangute's nightlife is surprisingly tamed and provide a nice break from the wild parties at Anjuna. All but a handful of the bars wind up by 10.00 pm. One notable exception is Tito's at the Baga end of the beach, which stays open until after midnight in the off-season and into the small hours in late December and January.

The other places that consistently stay open through the night at Calangute are a couple of hippy hang-outs in the woods to the south of the beach road. Pete's Bar, a perennial favourite next door to Angela P. Fernandes, is generally the liveliest, offering affordable drinks, backgammon sets and relentless reggae. Further afield, Bob's Inn, between Calangute and Candolim beaches, is another popular bar.

Attractions Around Calangute Beach
Kerkar Art Gallery: Located at close proximity is the Kerkar Art Gallery, displaying the paintings and sculptures of various talented, upcoming artists of Goa. The gallery also hosts a night of Indian music and dance, once every week.

Church Of St. Alex: As the vast tourist traffic on the CHOGM road reaches the village site of Calangute, the Church of St Alex greets the visitors with its two towers and a magnificent dome gracing the façade. The inside of the church is a display of the line and beauty of its architectural style and attractive altars.


Marina Beach, Chennai
» Be a part of Marina Beach, contact us

Welcome to the longest beach of India, Marina Beach, comprising of golden sand, good surf and a shimmering clean blue sea. This beach is counted among one of the longest beaches in Asia. Its 12-km long stretch was made beautiful by the wonderful facelift given by Governor Mountstuart Elphinstone Grant Duff in the early 1880's, and is Chennai's major tourist attraction today.

Leisure & Entertainment Activities At Marina Beach
Marina beach is located on the eastern side of Chennai, adjoining the Bay of Bengal. Watching the sun set and rise from the beach is a fascinating experience. Though bathing and swimming can be dangerous, as the undercurrent is very strong, even then people come for swimming here. In the evenings, the beach is virtually a fair ground with various kinds of entertainment and food stalls lining the beach.

With its natural sandy beauty and spacious promenade and beautiful gardens, the Marina beach is a major attraction for tourists visiting Chennai. One can even shop around the beach, with local vendors hawking wares ranging from shell and glass baubles to kites and fruit juices. The Marina, however, is large enough to accommodate all visitors as well as the hawkers and is often the venue for important state functions. There are also facilities of pony rides at the beach site, which attract the children's interest the most.

Attractions Around Marina Beach
Some of the most beautiful buildings in Chennai such as the University of Madras, Senate-House, Chepauk Palace, Presidency College, P.W.D office and Ice House are located on the beach drive. At the other end of the beach is the new lighthouse. In between, sentinels on the promenade, are several statues of Tamil scholars and two splendid bits of sculpture- the Victory of Labour and the Mahatma Gandhi.

Aquarium:
Close to the Marina beach is the aquarium, which has some of the most exotic collection of tropical sea fishes and fresh water fishes. The aquarium gives a chance to have a closer look at the aquatic life. The Ice House, which was used to store ice brought from Great Lakes in North America, is south to the Aquarium.

Anna And MGR Samadhis:
Situated on the beach, the Anna and MGR Samadhis, which are the memorials of the most popular, former Chief ministers of the state; attracts a good chunk of crowd everyday.

ayurveic spa centers in india

Centres of Yoga
» Vivekananda Kendra : The Kendra was started in the year 1972 with an aim to spread the ideals and teachings of India's great philosopher saint Swami Vivekananda. The Vivekananda Kendra has presently 170 branch centres spread over 18 states of India and specializing in yoga, meditation and a host of other activities.

» B.K Iyengar Yoga Institute : The Iyengar Yoga Institute was established by octogenarian B.K Iyengar some four decades ago. The Institute is renowned the world over for the unique yogic practices taught by B.K Iyengar. The institute is based in Pune and attracts students and patients from various parts of the globe.

» Art Of Living Foundation : The AOL Foundation with activities in 142 countries and headquartered in Bangalore conducts sessions on yoga and meditation under the guidance of his holiness Sri Sri Ravi Shankar. It has been accredited even by the United Nations as one of the largest NGO's of the world. The patented Sudarshan Kriya is the most significant innovation of the foundation.

» The Ramakrishna Mission : The Mission was founded in 1897 by Swami Vivekananda to propagate the teachings of Ramakrishna Paramhansa. Today, the mission has numerous brances all over the country where yoga and meditation classes are regularly organized among other activities.

» Bihar School Of Yoga : Founded by Paramhamsa Sivananda, the Bihar School Of Yoga is located in Munger of Bihar and offers both long term and short term specialised courses on yogic sadhana, yogic health management and yogic stress management. The School has produced many excellent teachers on the subject over the years.

» Divya Yoga Trust : The Trust headed by Acharya Ramdev Ji Maharaj is the leading light among institutes dedicated to Yogasanas in Haridwar. The Trust conducts Yoga camps in different parts of India which are personally supervised by Ramdev Ji Maharaj.

» Maharishi Mahesh Yogi Foundation : Maharishi Mahesh Yogi currently based in the United States is the person who gifted transcendental meditation technique to the world. The Foundation branches located in various parts of the country specialize in this unique form of meditation.

It is worth mentionable that apart from the institutions mentioned above, there are also many institutions at local levels dedicated to teaching yoga and meditation.

Ayurvedic Centres
» Kalpa Siddhi Health & Life Care : Based in Ahmedabad, this centre offers a range of Ayurvedic health remedies that promoses both fast and safe results. The treatment are provided both for common ailments as well as mortally serious health related problems. The centre has well qualified and experienced practitioners and required instruments to deliver the goods.

» Gujarat Ayurvedic University : Of the many universities set up exclusively for the treatment of Ayurveda in the country, the Gujarat Ayurvedic University ranks as one of the best. Apart from providing the best treatment with the help of state-of-the-art equipments and medicines, it also conducts ayurvedic courses at the highest level and advanced research on the subject.

» Santhitheeram Centre : The centre is one of the best ayurvedic centres located in Kerala. It is located in picturesque environs on the banks of Vembanad lake and concentrates on both therapeutic and rejuvenative Ayurveda. The primary focus is always on well being; by promoting health and happiness as a worthwhile goal. The range of Ayurvedic Panchakarma Treatment here includes Herbal Oil Massage, Steam Bath, Slimming Programs, Stress Management Programs and Beauty Care Programs.

» Ausara Ayurveda : Aurasa is a range that focusses in alleviating diseases and wellness through pure nature. Based in national capital Delhi, Ausara does not depend on the commonly used ayurvedic medicines but strives to present their own holistic products made from only pure herbs and essential oils. The preparation is strictly according to the ancient ayurvedic prescriptions. The R&D department constantly endeavours to bring out new remedies for the benefit of patients.

» Indian Alternate Therapy Institute : One of the prominent Ayurvedic institutes in Eastern India, the Alternate Therapy Institute located in Bodhgaya offers both treatment and courses on the subject. The Institute offers a range of tailor made ayurvedic treatment as well as courses on ayurvedic healing , aromatherapy, crystal healing, reflexology, stress management and reiki.

» Divya Yoga Trust : The Trust also runs an ayurvedic hospital in Haridwar offering a range of treatment for different diseases. The centre also deals with serious ailments like Cancer. Most of the medicines are made of pure herbs collected from the Himalayas. The trust is expanding its activities and also its present infrastructure to accommodate more patients.

It may be mentioned that Government has also established many Ayurvedic Universities and hospitals in different states to provide treatment on Ayurveda.


Ayurveda -- Ayurvedic system of living



The Arya Vaidya Sala, Kottakkal
Rajah Healthy Acres
Kerala Ayurveda Pharmacy
Keraleeya Ayurveda Samajam Hospital
Santhigiri Health Complex
Amala Ayurveda Hospital
Sreedhari Arya Vaidyasala
Sree Sankara Ayurveda Vaidyasala
Charakas Ayurveda Hospital
Kairali Ayurvedic health resort
Agastya Ayurvedic Garden
Somatheeram Ayurvedic Beach Resort
Keraleeya Ayur-veda Chikitsalayam
Vasudeva Vilasam Nursing Home
Surya Ayurvedic Resort
Kayaloram Lake Resort
Care Health Resort
Kappad Beach resort
Ashtamudi resort
Triveni Nursing Home
Deseeya Ayurvedic Pharmacy
Siddha Ayurveda Hospital
Santhigiri Ashram
Dhanwanthari Ayur-veda Kendra
Kerala Tourism


Ayurveda is a simple, practical science of life, the principles and practices of which evolved through many centuries. Ayurvedic science is based on eternal wisdom of people who acquired the knowledge from experience and meditation. Ayurvedic system is applicable universally to all those seeking harmony and peace. The Classical Ayurvedic texts discuss all forms of science like biology, toxicology and subjects like philosophy and theology.
Ayurveda has its own views about principles and philosophy of life. Ayurvedic system describes man as a universe within himself which is a child of the cosmic forces. His existence is inextricably intertwined to the total cosmic manifestation. The entire universe, as well as the body is made up of five basic elements. These elements are Earth, Water, Fire, Air and Space.
The word Ayurveda is composed of two sanskrit terms - Ayu meaning life and Veda meaning knowledge. Therefore Ayurveda means the knowledge of life or science of life. It is defined as the science, through which one can obtain knowledge about the useful and harmful ways of life, happy and miserable types of life, conditions that lead to the above types of life, as well as, the very nature of life.
According to Ayurvedic medicine, human body consists of three primary life forces or biological humors, which are Vatha, Pitha and Kapha. These three doshas are called the tridoshas. A balance among these life forces is essential for proper health. Any imbalance among the tridoshas causes a state of unhealthiness or disease.
Ayurvedic system says that this imbalance is the effect of the constant reaction of the internal environment of body to the changes in external environment. It is only required that we bring back normalcy to the balance of these doshas, to bring back the state of healthiness.

Other basic concepts of Ayurvedic system are the Saptha Dhathus (the bodily tissues), Srotas (Channals), Ama (toxins and filthy matter) and the trinity of life - body, mind and spiritual awareness.
The first step in the method of diagnosis in Ayurvedic form of medicine is to determine the constitution of the person. That means it is the patient who is diagnosed first and not the disease.
The same disease might appear in different forms in two persons because their constitution is different. Due to this variation in constitution the medicines and treatment may be different for two people with the same illness. This difference in treatment methods according to the constitution is essential to bring back the natural balance of the biological humors. The constitutional approach is the essence of the Ayurvedic system. Understanding ones constitution helps one to lead a life style that is most befitting his constitution, thus optimizing his health and creative potential.


According to Ayurvedic system, human body consists of three primary life forces or biological humors, which are Vatha, Pitha and Kapha. These three doshas are called the tridoshas. A balance among these life forces is essential for proper health. Any imbalance among the tridoshas causes a state of unhealthiness or disease.

Ayurvedic treatment measures include internal medicine, external medicine, surgical treatment and psychotherapy.

Ayurvedic treatments can be classified under two groups - tonification and reduction. Reduction therapies decrease excesses in the body while tonification methods nurture insufficiency in the body. Reduction therapy has two parts called pacification and purification. Pacification is done with herbs, fasting, exercise, sunbathing and exposure to wind. Purification is a special form of therapy for elimination of the disease causing humors. The power of Ayurvedic elimination therapy is its system for guiding the toxins to their sites for elimination. It consist of five parts - The pancha karmas - cleaning enemas, nasal medication, Purgation, Emesis and blood letting. All these require preliminary Ayurvedic practises of oleation and sweating. Kerala a southern state of India, has developed its own Ayurvedic treatment modalities like Dhara, pizhichil, Navarakizhi, Elakizhi, Sirovasthi, Thalapothichil etc. which are highly effective in a number of diseases which include Motor neuron diseases, Arthritis of various kinds, skin diseases, heart diseases, peptic ulcer, Asthama, Peripheral vascular diseases and Gynecological disorders.
Ayurvedic pharmacology is based upon the concepts of rasa, veerya and vipaka. A vast variety of plants, metals, minerals, animals, birds and even mud and sand are used as medicines in Ayurveda.
Knowledge about Ayurvedic type of medicine is divided into eight branches. The branches are 1. Kaya chikilsa (general medicine), 2. Shalya (surgery), 3. Shalakya (ENT and Ophthalmology), 4. Graha (Psychotherapy), 5. Damshitra (toxicology), 6. Bala (Pediatrics and Gynecology), 7. Jara (rejuvenation) and 8. Vrishya (Aphrodisiacs).
Of the above the seventh one, that is rejuvenation therapy is a unique method which Ayurveda performs. Until death our body is engaged in a continuous struggle against the aging process. Hence the body is called Shareeram - something that degenerates.
Rajah Healthy Acres, Kerala, India is an Ayurvedic health center, with resident doctors, Masseurs, visiting Ayurvedic doctors who are specialists in various fields of Ayurvedic medicine.

deseases v/s ayurveda

by Indrani Kumar & Janice Kumar

Ayurveda is a part of the Indian system of Yoga. This ancient science deals with the healing of the human body and mind to achieve optimum balance between the body, mind and consciousness. It has been developed and refined by ancient Indian seers and practitioners. The system tries to fix various imbalances in the body and uses herbs and natural products to treat the body. The concept and system was developed to aid a human being towards spiritual progress and rejuvenation. Now a days , it is used primarily as a way to heal the body and reduce stress. This system is used in conjunction with the ancient Indian system of Yoga Asanas and breathing exercises to gain optimum results.

Basic principals and philosophy of Ayurveda

Human body is made up of five principles Viz. Air ( Akasa), Vital Force ( Vayu), Minerals, Acids, Alkalies etc ( Tejas) , Water ( Jala) and Organic substances and Earthy matter not specified elsewhere( Prithvi). Any part of the body , howsoever minute is a combination of all of these principles.

In Ayurveda , combination of these principles are classified into three : Vayu – Vata- Mayu or Pitta- Valasa – Kapha.

The First is a combination of Air and Vital Force, The second is Minerals , acids and alkalies and the third is a combination of Water and Organic matter . These three Mega Divisions ( Tridhatus) build and sustain all parts of the body. One Dhatu (Mega Division) may be more active in one part of the body compared to the other. Ayurveda recognizes this difference and balance which keeps the body healthy.

When these Mega divisions ( Dhatus ) are displaced or in imbalance due to factors like food, age, various daily activities , time and place , they cause disease . In Ayurvedic terms they cause Impurities ( Malas).

There are three kinds of impurities in Ayurveda :

Vata – Excessively vitiated gasses

Pitta – Fluids of gall bladder and accumulated wastes.

Slesma – Phlegm or mucus in the mouth, throat and a few other impurities like albumen in the urine.

I shall now give the basic line of treatment in Ayurveda without going into detail regarding the herbs or the process. That is best left to a trained Ayurveda doctor. However it is important to understand the basis premise of the treatment so I make an effort here.

Disease in the initial stages is treated by alleviation. The imbalances are treated by pacifying them without eliminating them from the body. When the disease is very pronounced, there is no recourse except to eliminate the same from the body . In this case the Ayurveda doctor will try to find the source of the problem (imbalance) and eliminate this source to get a balance in the human body.

The Pacification of the imbalance can be undertaken by the Ayurveda doctor after studying the pulse of the patient. He looks for intensity, pattern, kind of throbbing and other complex variations to understand where the possible cause of the problem can be . The treatment is with a combination of natural herbs and minerals ingested or inhaled and Yoga Asanas ( body postures ) . The herbs and minerals are normally not processed as per modern medicine but comparatively raw. These heavy minerals and herbs can be effective in fixing some common ailments but should be taken under supervision or can cause damage to internal organs. Careful monitoring by a trained person can give lasting benefits.

The Elimination of the imbalance (versus pacification) to get to the root of the problem causing the disease is a complex process. The ‘ Panchkarma’ treatment is a specialized tool in Ayurveda employed for the purpose of ‘Elimination’. As the name suggests it comprises of five basic steps:

Vamana- Emesis

Virechana- Purgation

Vasti - Enema

Nasya- Enrhine therapy, and

Rakta Moksha- Bloodletting

This treatment works on the principle of removing deep seated toxins from the body causing imbalance and is recommended 3 times a year – at the turn of spring , autumn and winter. A healthy person is recommended this treatment once a year to rejuvenate and revitalize the body by bringing into balance various constituents.

The process is threefold:

Preparatory procedures : Internal Oleation and Lubrication with various herbal oils and Clarified butter taken orally. External lubrication with massages, oil gargles, Oiling of the ear canal etc etc . Therapeutic heat to induce perspiration and removing impurities through sweat glands.

Main Treatment : consists of Emesis ( therapeutic cleaning of the upper orifice of the alimentary canal) , Purgation ( Removal of waste from lower orifice) , Enema ( Therapeutic cleaning of the large intestine and bladder via medicated enema), Nasal application of ayurvedic medicines and Blood letting.

The above is an overview of the treatment. The popular treatments under Panchkarma include:

Virechanam : Purging and purification. Removal of waste accumulated in intestines.

Snanam : Special medicated herbal bath.

Snehanam : Application of oil internally ( orally ).

Avagahaswedam: Controlled sweating through medicated water.

Ooshmasswedam: Steam bath. Steam from water, sand , dust and more.

Tapaswedam : Dry sweating by rubbing body with heated stone etc.

And various other kinds of specialized sweating procedures.

Dhara : Pouring of medicated oils continuously on the forehead. It relaxes the body and fixes neurological imbalances.

Kaya Seka : Full body massage with herbal medicated oils .

Patra Pinda Sweda : The whole body is made to perspire by application of herbal medicated packs .

Udvarthana : A herbal powder massage for obesity and skin ailments .

Kati Basti : Fixes back pains and spinal problems.

Shirobasti / Sirovasti : Treatment with herbal medicated oil kept on the forehead. This is an effective treatment for disorders connected with the brain.

Tarpana : Specialized eye care to relax and rejuvenate the eyes.

Post Treatment

A set of post treatment diet and exercises are recommended to keep the body fit and rejuvenated. The doctor recommends certain foods and herbs to keep the body fit throughout the year.

Ayurveda hence helps to promote health, prevent disease, rejuvenate body cells, reduce stress, cure diseases and regain health and vigor. It is supposed to be a complete treatment versus the modern medicine which only treats a specific problem to the detriment of the rest of the body.

AIDS- MODERN CONCEPT

AIDS is an acronym for the 'Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome'. AIDS is not a single disease but it is a syndrome- a set of diseases, which results from the destruction of the body's defenses by human immune deficiency virus, HIV.

The virus that causes ' Aids' - HIV belongs to a family of viruses known as retroviruses. HIV looks like a rolled up porcupine. It contain two snakes like single strands of RNA along with reverse transcripts firmly wrapped up in a core, giving HIV its characteristic appearance.

On entering the white blood cells known as CD 4 cells, HIV produces its own DNA and sees to it that this gets inserted into the DNA of the host cell. The viral DNA has enough power and information to direct the destiny of the cell. It can force the cell to manufacture several new copies of HIV. However due to certain trigger and regulatory mechanisms, the viral DNA lies dormant in the host cell for several years before it begins to do the damage.

People infected with HIV may take 7 - 10 years to develop AIDS.

AIDS AYURVEDIC PERSPECTIVE
According to Ayurveda the AIDS disease may be correlated with "Kshaya' or "Ojakshaya' meaning loss of energy. The Symptoms and causative factors and treatment for the latter are found mentioned in many ancient Ayurvedic tests like, Charaka Samhitha, Bhavaprakasha,Vaidyachintamani and Chakradatta etc., Shosha is another condition, which results from loss of energy that is similar to AIDS.

The disease is caused by the dominant kapha dosha along with the other doshas tends to block the path for the flow of rasadi dhatus in their respective locations thus resulting in the deterioration of saptha dhatu Rasa(plasma), Rakta (blood cells),Mansa ( muscular tissue), Meda (adipose tissue), Asthi (bony tissue), Majja (bone marrow) and the Shukra (reproductive tissue). thus resulting into the disease.

The major symptoms are:

• loss of appetite, drastic loss of weight-emaciation
• fatigue and lethargy
• susceptibility to allergies and contagious diseases
• skin irritations
• bronchial disorders, often leading to tuberculosis of the lungs
• damage to intestinal flora resulting in diarrhoea, dysentery, gastritis and
• wide fluctuations in body temperature. prolonged fever
• sleeplessness etc.

TREATMENT OF AIDS ACCORDING TO AYURVEDIC SYSTEM:
All seems not lost for the HIV infected persons as the Ayurvedic supplements are proven to be harmless without any side effects and there can only be improvement and not deterioration.
TREATMENT PLAN

The first step to stem the disease is to ensure a good and healthy atmosphere for the patient. He should be surrounded by well meaning friends and relatives who must affirm that the disease state is totally curable. Nothing negative should be discussed before the patient.
The patient should be given nourishing food which is easily digestible. He should be encouraged to do easy exercise which does not strain his fragile health. He should be kept engaged in fruitful activities which strengthen the good tendencies inherent in him.

Initially, the patient is given tonics and rejuvenators (Rasayanas) to boost immunity levels and to strengthen the system and stimulate appetite.

After gaining some strength, shodhana (elimination) techniques are used to expel toxins from the body through enemas, purgation and emesis. The medications administered at this stage are not hard or drastic, but soft, ghee-based so that the patient withstands them with ease.

Secondly the blood is purified with appropriate medications. Liver corrective measures also play an important role.

A strengthening diet along with medicated ghee preparations and soups is recommended. But spicy, oily and acidic foods are to be avoided. A little alcohol is recommended as anupana (carrier) to aid the digestive process, and also remove blockages in the flow of Rasadi dhatus, i.e. srothorodha.

Patient is advised to do regular exercise. If the patient is incapable of exercising or running due to weakness, then steaming (swedanam) is also recommended. reason behind this is 'Heated blood is said to weaken, and even destroy, the virus in some cases'.

Experience has shown that certain herbo-mineral compounds prepared as per the formulae prescribed by sages like Agasthya, Charaka, Sarangadhara and others for the treatment of Kshaya have brought about significant results in improving the condition of AIDS patients. The Rasayana and Vajikara effects of the these medicines are good for the patients.

Some of the propritery ayurvedic medicines achieving good improvement in the quality of life of patients include 'Chyavanprash', 'Raktavardhak' for Immunity building and 'Sookshma triphla tabs' to keep awaythe the infection.

CHYAVANPRASH:
An example of an Ayurvedic remedy which may be of use in the treatment of persons diagnosed with AIDS is 'Chyavanprash'. 'Chyavanprash' is most useful and most popular rejuvenator tonic(Rasayana) of Ayurveda.

This is an Ayurvedic herbal formula which increases ojas, and restores the digestive, eliminative, respiratory and sexual systems. It is frequently employed in wasting conditions where it has been clinically shown to improve health and assist with weight gain. The main ingredient in Chyavanprash is 'Amalaki'- the Indian gooseberry (Emblica officinalis), which has the highest yield of natural source vitamin C, with 3000 mg per fruit. It is also a rich source of naturally occurring anti-oxidants including bioflavonoids, vitamin B-complex and carotenes (vitamin A). Studies suggest that this berry possesses antifungal, antibacterial and antiviral properties. It assists digestion, lowers high blood pressure and lowers blood cholesterol. Clinical research has shown that it accelerates repair of muscle and skin and enhances natural anti-inflammatory substances. Chayvanprash also contains about 35 others herbs which amplify and augment the effects of its main ingredient; such a powerful formulation may indeed be helpful in the treatment of persons who have been diagnosed with AIDS.

Curing Alchoholism

Alcoholism or Alcohol Abuse is a disease that involves physical and psychological addiction to the drug alcohol. It is chronic, progressive and often fatal. Alcoholism is a major social, economic and public health problem, involved in over half of all unnatural deaths and almost half of all traffic fatalities. A high percentage of suicides involve the use of alcohol in combination with other substances. Additional deaths are related to long- term medical complications associated with the disease. The life-span of an alcoholic is shortened by an average of 15 years, as a result of the various complications of the disease.

Alcoholism: causes and risk factors
Heavy drinking over time -Drinking steadily and heavily over time can lead to dependence by altering the levels of certain brain chemicals, causing to crave alcohol to restore positive feelings or avoid negative ones. At-risk drinkers are men who consume 15 or more drinks a week, women who consume 12 or more drinks a week, or anyone who consumes five or more drinks per occasion at least once a week. (One drink is defined as a bottle of beer; a glass of wine/ spirits)

Genetics -genetic makeup may cause brain chemical imbalances and make more susceptible to alcohol dependency. Genetic factors may account for about half the total risk for developing alcoholism

Psychological factors- Some people drink to relieve stress, anxiety, depression or low self-esteem. Having certain clinical emotional disorders, such as severe depression, increases the risk for alcoholism. Social and cultural factors- social environment, which includes elements such as peer pressure, availability of alcohol and social acceptance of its use may also encourage the development of alcoholism.

Age - People who start drinking in their teens or earlier are at higher risk of becoming alcoholic. Rates of alcohol abuse are highest in people aged 18-29, and lowest among those 65 and older.

Gender - Men are more likely to become alcoholics, although the incidence of alcoholism among women has increased over the past 30 years.

Symptoms and signs of alcoholism
Alcoholism includes the following general symptoms:

• Craving: a compulsion to drink.
• Tolerance: If the body is alcohol-dependent, it might need to drink increasing amounts of alcohol to feel its effects.
• Memory problems; confused or sluggish thinking; difficulty concentrating.
• Losing interest in activities that used to bring you pleasure.
• Mood changes (anger, irritability).
• Personality changes (becoming jealous or distrustful).
• Neglecting your physical appearance.

Physical symptoms may include:

• Nausea or vomiting
• Shaking in the morning
• Poor eating habits and loss of appetite
• Stomach pain or cramps or Diarrhea
• Numbness or tingling
• Weakness in the legs and hands
• Red eyes, face or palms
• Unsteady walking or falls
• Blacking out

Alcohol withdrawal symptoms may vary from mild to severe. The more common, milder symptoms may include:

• . Craving: a compulsion to drink.
• . AutonomicHyperactivity- sweating,Tachycardia,Hypertension,Hyperhydrosis,Pupilarydil ation
• . Tremors-Eye lids, Tongue, Hands
• . Restlessness
• . Anxiety
• . Shaking hands
• . Insomnia
• . Increased heart rate
• . Rapid breathing
• . Increased blood pressure
• . Elevated temperature and sweating
• . Loss of appetite, nausea or vomiting

Severe withdrawal symptoms, or delirium tremens (DTs), may include

• . Extreme agitation
• . Seizures (Rum Fits)

Treatment in Modern medicine
Drug treatments. Tranquilizers called benzodiazepines (e.g. Valium or Librium) are often prescribed to control withdrawal symptoms. These are most common in the first five days after stopping alcohol. An alcohol-sensitizing drug, disulfiram (Ant abuse), produces a physical reaction that includes flushing, nausea and headaches if patient drink. Naltrexone (ReVia or Depade) is a newer drug that blocks the alcohol "high," and reduces the urge to drink. This medication lessens the craving for alcohol and helps prevent relapses

General health improvement. Eating a balanced diet with vitamin supplements and getting regular exercise are important in regaining health.

Complications of alcoholism
Long-term alcohol abuse can have numerous medical complications, including:

• . Liver disorders. Heavy drinking can cause hepatitis, an inflammation of the liver. This may eventually lead to cirrhosis, the progressive and irreversible destruction of liver tissue.
• . Gastrointestinal problems. Alcohol can cause inflammation and erosion of the stomach lining (gastritis). It also interferes with absorption of B vitamins and other nutrients, leading to nutritional deficiencies. Heavy drinking can also cause inflammation and damage to the pancreas (pancreatitis). This hinders production of digestive juices and enzymes, and hormones that help regulate metabolism.
• . Diabetes complications. Alcohol inhibits the release of glucose from the liver and can increase the risk of low blood sugar (hypoglycemia). This is dangerous if Patient has diabetes and takes insulin to lower blood sugar level.
• . Cardiovascular problems. Excessive drinking can lead to high blood pressure and heart muscle damage (cardiomyopathy). These conditions increase the risk of heart failure or stroke.
• . Reproductive problems. Alcohol abuse can cause erectile dysfunction and impotence in men. In women, it can interrupt menstruation.
• . Birth defects. Excessive drinking during pregnancy can cause foetal alcohol syndrome. This condition results in birth abnormalities and later developmental disabilities.
• . Neurological complications. Alcohol affects the nervous system and can result in neuropathy (diseases of the nerves) and dementia (impaired brain function).
• . Depression. About one-third of alcoholics also suffer major depression.
• . Increased risk of cancer of the larynx, esophagus, liver and colon.

· Vamana is major pradhana karma of Panchakarma therapy for Kaphaja disorder in which expulsion of aggravated or vitiated Doshas/toxic materials through the mouth. In our classical text Vaman karma is indicated in Madatyaya and in alcohol Abuse Vamana karma has been yielding good results.

· In this Clinical study 10 patients of Alcohol abuse are treated by Vaman karma from I.P.D. /O.P.D. of N.I.A, Jaipur

· Materials & Methods Vamak yoga -Madan phala powder 5gm,Vacha 3gm,Saindhav Lavan 1gm,Honey 20gm
Other Material - Milk- 2 liter, SharkarOdhak -1 liter , Plain Water-1 liter
Alcohol - Type & dose according to patient (approx 650ml),

· Poorva Karma
Snehankarma- Sadhya Snehan is given One day before Vaman karma
Abhayang & Sarvang Sweda is given on the of Vaman karma

· Vaman Process-
1st- Akhant doodhpan (approx 2liter)
2nd- Vamak yoga is given then waits for Vomiting or 48 min.
3rd-A Glass of alcohol with SharkarOdhak & a Glass of alcohol with plain water is given alternately up to Samayak vaman

· Paschat karma-
Padabhayang, Dhoomrapana & Sansarjan karma

· Oral medicine - Vistindhuk vati & other Medhya Drugs are advised

· CONCLUSION-

• 1.Vaman Karma causes Invidious effect that is why it is more effective
• 2. Carving of alcohol is reduced
• 3.Withdrawl symptoms are less in no.
• 4. Can be repeated in relapsing patients

Curing Allergies

Allergies

occur when a hypersensitive immune system reacts to a common or unusual substance. In some people it is hereditary, but one can also develop an allergy at any time in his or her life. Any substance, whatever its origin, is a possible allergen. Foods, chemicals in foods, medicines, and environmental factors, including pollen, parasites, dust, animal hair, and chemical toxins, for example, can all cause allergic reactions almost anywhere in the body.

Ayurveda sees ama (toxins) and low immunity as the primary causes of most allergies. Ama can settle at the digestive level or in the various tissues, with different symptoms at each level. Ama toxicity aggravates blood and Pitta, or it can aggravate Kapha, with different symptoms.

HAY FEVER

Most of us are familiar with the symptoms of hay fever, or seasonal allergies, whether we have them ourselves or know someone else who does have- runny nose, sneezing, itching eyes, scratchy throat, and itching, swelling, or hives on the skin. Often, people seem to have a cold. With more severe reactions, one might suffer from asthma and other breathing difficulties, aches and pain, gastrointestinal reactions (for example, diarrhea), or rapid or irregular heartbeat.

Seasonal allergies can occur anytime, but they occur most often during spring and early summer, when plants and trees are flowering and producing pollens, the most common allergens. Seasonal allergies are also fairly common in the fall - many people are sensitive to the molds produced by decaying leaves and other plants. Animal feathers, hairs and dust cause similar symptoms.

Ayurveda sees hay fever as a Kapha-Pitta disorder; however, people with a Vata constitution suffer most from it, because it is also due to immune disorder and hypersensitivity of the nervous system:

Symptoms & Dosha predominance-

* Vata aggravation often produces headache, insomnia, and anxiety.

* Pitta aggravation produces yellow nasal discharge, feverish feeling, burning eyes, and skin rashes.

* Kapha aggravation produces whitish sputum and heaviness and dullness in the body. If the sinuses are congested, there may be a dull headache around the region of sinuses.

General Treatment

[A] Home Therapies

In all cases, nasal medication is recommended for controlling and preventing seasonal allergies. Use medicated sesame oil made with licorice, agaru (aquilaria agallocha), bilva (aegle marmalos), kantakari (solanum xanthocarpum), lotus, and nutgrass. Then put one drop in each nostril at bedtime. Use this for 4 weeks.

Medicated oil specialy prepared for Nasya ' Amrut Bindu' is very effective.

[B] Herbs

For Vata & Kapha - Take trikatu (dry ginger, black pepper and long pepper powder in equal amount) 20 mgm.+ basil 250 mgm. + 10 mgm. cloves, camphor, and coriander each. It is advisable to take this mixture 3 times a day with warm water. Start before hay fever season. & take the mixture till the season is over.

[C] Diet

Avoid heavy foods, cold drinks, and dairy products (including cheese and yogurt), that increase Kapha and decrease digestive fire. Also, follow diets that rebalance your own pattern of doshic imbalance.

Vata treatment

Home Therapies

* Follow the " Unit increase/unit decrease "Rasayana treatment described in the section on asthma.

Pitta Treatment

* During an attack with Pitta aggravation, take a tea made with licorice, cardamom, and santalum album. For making tea - take equal proportion of dried herbs + 4 times water. Boil it. Reduce till 1/4th.

For Pitta pacification, bitter herbs & blood cleansing herbs like dandelion, barberry or echinacea should be taken. Take any of these herbs in dose of 1 to 3 gms. a day for 2 weeks.

Home Therapies

* Inhale medicated vapor made with water, basil leaves (holy basil, if possible), and eucalyptus oil.

* Do nasya (nasal medication) with coconut oil 2 times a day. Put 2 –3 drops of oil in the nose at bedtime.

Kapha Treatment

[a] Herbs

* Take 50 mg. of camphor and cloves and 1 gram of basil twice daily for 2 months.

[b] Prepared Medicines

* To ease Kapha aggravation, take 2 tablets of guduchi, three times daily with a tea made from basil, cloves, and camphor for 2 weeks.

[c] From the Ayurvedic Physician

An Ayurvedic physician would recommend medicated therapeutic vomiting to balance Kapha and prevent the recurrence of seasonal allergies.

[d] Yoga and Breath Therapy

It is common for hay fever to start with symptoms that are similar to colds and sinus problems. To prevent symptoms such as runny nose, sneezing and congestion, practice nasal cleansing with water (jala neti) regularly to purify the entire upper respiratory tract and prevent recurrence of allergic attacks. Use a special pot with a spout - a neti pot - available for this purpose, and make nasal cleansing a regular part of your daily hygiene.

Deep breathing or regular practice of [anuloma viloma pranayama] can also prevent attack.

When hay fever allergies are chronic, practice (Kapalabhati) regularly to increase the patient's stamina.

Curing Alzheimer’s

Those who had seen Mr.’s Wagle in early eighties had picturised her as a lady of Magnetic personality, proud and totally confident - an epitome of a devoted wife and an excellent homemaker. She was a pillar of strength for the functioning of the rest of the household and a wife who would stay night after night with her husband in ill health and praying him back to health with rock bound faith. Today Mrs. Wagle after almost 20Years is unperturbed, unconcerned and undisturbed even on death of her husband. She has sunk into profound memory loss and failed to recognize even her husband --- a disease medically termed as Alzheimer’s (dementia) a brain disorder which is irreversible.

Mrs. Wagle underwent Hysterectomy in mid eighties. Shortly after this she started having problems of short-term memory loss. Forgetfulness is a natural part of menopause and ageing and none of them considered getting an expert evaluation done for her. In two years they noticed that there was a decline in her ability of managing finances or making calculations. She started developing an escapist behavior and would simply shrug from undertaking new activities and complex tasks. These are initial signs of Alzheimer’s disease.

The disease slowly progressed to long-term memory loss. She developed loss of reasoning; difficulty in communicating with others, decreased judgment abilities and found it difficult even in performing daily activities. Initially, precaution had to be taken to ensure safety and comfort because she was prone to wandering and getting lost.

In mid eighties, she sank into moderate degree of dementia. She had profound memory loss that interfered with her daily activities and she needed help from others to complete them. She was in a state of confusion and her judgment power also was severely impaired. Her sleep pattern suffered and there was hostility and verbal outburst in her behavior pattern. Most of the time she had a vacant look in her eyes.

In late nineties Mrs. Wagle was graded as having severe dementia. She developed severe impairment of mind and body. She no longer recognized her spouse and children. She had no sense of time or current location. Verbal communication was decreased to a point of phrases or mere syllables. This was when her husband passed away in the year 2000. Recently her communication degenerated to complete inability to speak. She was in the bed needed help for dressing, bathing, grooming, eating and toileting. Though her heart was ticking she was unaware of her surroundings.

What happens in Alzheimer’s?
People with Alzheimer’s experience difficulties in communicating, learning, thinking, and reasoning. These problems are so severe that they could affect the individual’s work, social activities and family life.

Inside the brain are hundreds of billions of nerve cells connected by trillions of fibers called axons and dendrites .The activity between them controls your thoughts, feelings, drives, aspirations, and personality. This control center of all that you do think and feel is very vulnerable to its environment as it floats in a bath of cerebrospinal fluid just like a fish in a tank absorbs whatever is put in the tank. In Alzheimer’s disease many conditions like the reaction to foods drugs, herbs, body activities, lifestyles and sometimes genetic mapping etc create a confused interlacing of these fibers followed by neurotic plaques, granular vascular degeneration, Brain sink age and decreased amount of brain chemicals involved in communication called neuro transmitters. All of these changes impair the function of the brain cells and eventually lead to cellular death. The sad part is unlike other cells the brain is unable to regenerate new neurons.

Ayurveda terms this as smruthi nasha, caused by the depletion of dhatus or tissue elements and upward movement of the excessively accumulated bio energies. Intellect is pure, transparent, sharp, accurate, and subtle. The abode of intellect, which is the carrier of the three types of gunas- satvik, rajasik, tamasik, gets disturbed and their balance is lost. Satvik guna, which represents purity and consciousness, gets visually impaired by rajas, (the attribute of mind which usually represents energy and dynamism) and. Tamaa ,(the attribute of mind representing passivity and ignorance). manovaha srotas channels carrying cyclic impulses principally responsible for memory is kindled by the satva or the intellect.When this is completely evolved in tamaha or darkness the person is effected and there is malfunctioning of the mental activities. It is easier to prevent alzhimer’s then looking for treatment for correcting it.

Treatment Modalities for Alzheimer’s disease in stages

Stage 1:
No impairment.
Normal functions. Candidates do not exhibit any memory problems to the Doctor.
What Happens in the brain? No remarkable changes.
Healthy brain, cerebral cortex and Hippocampus.

Treatment modalities aimed at preventing Alzheimer’s:

• Wholesome diet

to the mind and body.

• Regulated life style
• Being a good judge in differentiating between good and bad. And acting accordingly.
• Not getting too much engrossed in sensory pleasures.
• Learn sharing, when you give your possessions you give very little when you surrender your self it is true giving. When you give with joy that is the reward. When you withhold it you perish.
• Treat every one equally, looking at both pleasure and pain with an equal eye. Look upon well wishers and neutrals as well as mediators, friends and foes, relatives and objects of hatred, the virtuous and the sinful with the same eye.
• Be truthful, to yourself and to your dealings in life. People who lie are under a constant fear and stress. Try to know the truth of this life. The mind, body the senses and the gross or the physical body are all perishable, and hence do not grieve on this body. The soul residing in this body is eternal and imperishable therefore do not grieve over it.
• Be free from malice, friendly and compassionate towards all beings and always be forgiving by nature.
• Look after elders and keep yourself engaged in their service. When you work with love you bind yourself to yourself, to one another and with god.
• These Diet modalities and life style habits have been formulated for each and every individual. Though these may look a little impracticable and a little heavy if you abide by them even in the slightest way the mind is less disturbed and more tranquil on the contrary if you do not abide them conflict occurs in the subconscious realms and these cause mental disturbances and diseases.

Stage 2:
Very mild cognitive decline
The candidates feel as if they have memory lapses. When they are talking and may forget familiar words, names or every day objects but may not exhibit during a checkup.
What happens in the brain?
Mild disease; moderately enlarged ventricles, shrinking cortical. And Hippocampus.

Treatment:

• Wholesome diet and lifestyle.
• Pranayama: Breathing techniques to rejuvenate your brain cells. The main effects of Pranayama manifest in the nervous system and in the subtle psychic energy body .The breath is known as thread of life and depending on it’s action the entire life process is refined, balanced or else thrown out of proper order.
• Panchakarma therapy. A special part of treatment in Ayurveda aiming at removal of toxins from the body and servicing it for a better efficacy.
• Shiro Dhara: Medicated liquids are poured on the head with an appliance called as Dhara patra which is suspended from the ceiling or from the bracket of the dhara table. Promising treatment in maintaining the restoration of necessary oxygen, blood supply and glucose to the brain cells.
• Nasya. All medications and therapies administered through the nasal passage are called as Nasya. This therapy is considered the best and the most specific treatment for the diseases of the head because when the medicines are administered through the nose they spread throughout the head and it’s constituent parts and influence all the beaneries and the diseases situated in these parts.
• Shiro Basti: A therapy where medicated oil is kept on the head for a specific period with the help of a cap. This is recommended for diseases like Parkinson’s, Hemiplegia, mind and generalized cerebral atrophy.
• Shiro lepa: Application of medicated pastes on the scalp is called as Shirolepa and is recommended for all psychic disorders.
• Rejuvinating medicines like Brahmi, to keep the brain cells well nourished. Ayurvedic mineral supplements given to normalize the depleted tissue elements. Chyavanprash
• Educating on the benefit of developing hobbies such as drawing, sculpturing dancing etc and playing indoor games like scrabble, computer games, chess etc.

Stage 3:
Mild cognitive decline. Friend’s family and coworkers begin to notice changes in memory, concentration and behavioral pattern.
Clinically recognizable by the physicians.
What happens in the brain? Severe disease severely enlarged ventricles, severe shrinkage of Hippocampus and severe cortical shrinkage.

Treatment.
1.Continue Stage 2 treatment.
2.Good nursing care

Curing arthritis

Arthritis is one of the most common ailment for which Ayurvedic help is being sought these days.

Disease process in Arthritis:

According to Ayurveda mostly pains are caused by the aggravation of vata (air) dosha. Arthritis is a condition which is caused by accumulation of ama and aggravation of vata. (Ama is a toxic by-product of improper digestion. )This ama circulates in the whole body and deposits or gets collected at the sites which are weaker. When it deposits in the joints and at the same time there is aggravation of vata , it results in a disease called amavata. This amavata is arthritis.

Remedies:

• As described above ama and vata are the main causes, so efforts should be made to digest ama and to reduce the vata. The digestion should be improved so that no further ama is produced. Efforts should be made to relieve the pain and inflammation. This is the line of treatment according to Ayurveda.
• Fasting is very beneficial for digesting the ama. The fasting be complete or partial depending on the strength of the person, season and place. Two tea spoons of lemon juice mixed in 250 ml. of warm water and a tea spoon of honey is good to take twice a day -morning and evening.
• body massage with sesame or mustard oil helps to reduce the vata and thus reduce the pain. The joints affected by pain can be massaged for longer time.
• Light exercise is useful but you must know your limits: as a general rule if any exercise, including walking, causes pain after one hour, you have crossed your limit.
• Liberal intake of orange juice or sweet limejuice or Vitamin C enhances the efficacy of any anti rheumatic drug, since Vitamin C can reduce skeletal pain.
• Guggul is a very helpful herb for curing arthritis. If available it can be taken in one to 3 gm dose twice a day after meals with warm water.
  Contra-indications: Not recommended for people with kidney disease or acute rashes.

Diet and Regimen:

• Foods which are easily digestible and do not make wind or gas are good. Vegetable juices and soups are good. Juices of carrot, beat root and cucumber mixed together is also beneficial. Green salad with a dressing of lemon juice and a little salt is also good. Fruits like apples, oranges, grapes and papaya can be taken. Cooked vegetables like squash, zucchini and pumpkin are good. Cooking with spices like cumin, coriander, ginger, asafetida, garlic, fennel and turmeric is also helps a lot.
• Avoid eating hot, spicy and fried foods, sweets, wind forming foods like cabbage, cauliflower, spinach, broccoli, okra and potatoes should be prohibited. Avoid taking too much tea, coffee, alcohol, white sugar, yogurt, chocolate and cocoa, excessive smoking
• Sleeping during day time, staying up late in the night and mental tensions like worry, anxiety, fear, stress and grief etc., should be given up. Regular physical exercise and every day massage with oil, once or twice a week, should form an important part of life style.

Curing Asthma

In today's stressful modern urbanised living, incidence of Asthma is considerably increasing. The rapid industrialisation , excessive crowding , Increasing pollution are some of the factors responsible for this increase in incidence of Bronchial Asthma.
It has been stated that 15% of Indian population suffers from Asthma and in developed countries like USA every year there is 10% increase of Asthmatic patients
Every now and then we come across patients of Asthma seeking Ayurvedic treatment and advice. This is because of the versatile approach of Ayurveda to root cause of the problem and it's belief in preventing the disease rather than treating it.
Ayurvedic Concept : In Ayurveda, Asthma is known as 'Swas Roga'

Samprapti (Pathogenesis) : The vitiated 'Pranvayu' combines with deranged 'Kapha dosha' in the lungs causing obstruction in the 'Pranavaha srotasa'(Respiratory passage). This results in gasping and laboured breathing. This condition is known as 'Swas Roga'
Types : Five types of 'Swas Roga' are described in Ayurvedic texts
1]Maha-shwas
2]Urdhva-shwas
3]Chinna-shwas
4]Tamak-shwas
5]Kshudra-shwas
Among these five types first three are not curable. 'Tamak-shwas is 'yapya'(Controllable) and is difficult to cure. The last one is curable. More than 75% of the cases belong to last two catagories.

Cause :
A] Factors related to diet:
Excessive indulgence in lablab beans ,black grams, raw milk, soar curd, excess salt, flesh of aquatic and wet land animals.
Excessive use of 'Ruksha'(dry) and 'Guru'(heavy) diet, excessive use of cold water and cold drinks.
Excessive use of 'Abhishandi'(Kapha producing) diet, Excessive use of not easily digestible and irritant food.
B] Factors related to work :
Excessive exposure to dust and smoke.
Excessive wind, cold, cold bath or excessive heat, sun bath.
Exhaustive exercise, walking, excessive sexual activities.
Supression of natural urges
Psychological factors
C] Other Factors :
Trauma to vital organs viz. - chest, throat
Asthma may be as a sequaelae in other diseases like -
Fever, Long standing common cold, Tuberculosis , Anaemia, Heart disease, Poisoning etc.
Preventive Tips :

1. Avoid cold and damp places.

2. Go for morning or evening walk, do yoga mainly 'Pranayama'

3. Avoid over eating . Take light dinner one hour before going to bed

4. Avoid Tobacco, wine and smoking

5. Keep rooms well ventilated . Avoid air conditioners, coolers and direct air of fan

6. Avoid perfumes , Agarbatti. Mosquito repellents

7. Drink boiled water in plenty

8. Avoid over exercise and over indulgence in sex

Treatment :
A] During attacks - Apply warm 'Til tail' over chest and back .Apply fomentation
Take 'sunth powder'1/4 tea spoon+'Kali mirch' 6+'Kala namak 1/4 teaspoon+ 5 leaves of 'Tulsi' Boil this mixture in 200 ml water reducing it to 50 ml. Filter and sip it.
Medicines -Ayurvedic medicines are very safe and cure the problem to a great extent. Few common medicines are -Swaskuthar ras, Sitopaladi choorna, Vasavleha etc.
B] Treatment in between Attacks - 'Rasayan -chikitsa is advocated for'Pranvaha shrotasa'(Respiratory system). For example -'Vardhaman pippali rasayana.'

Lung Tonic - Make paste of Black resin,dates, long pippali and honey,in equal quantity.Take one teaspoonful of it morning and evening with warm milk.

Panchakarma especially 'Vaman' is advocated before rainy season

Simple Home Remedies :

• Express the juice from garlic. Mix 10 to 15 drops in warm water and take internally for asthma relief.
• Mix, onion juice ¼ cup, honey 1 tablespoon and black pepper 1/8 tablespoon.
• Mix licorice and ginger together. Take ½ tablespoon in 1 cup of water for relief from asthma.
• Drink a glass of 2/3 carrot juice, 1/3 spinach juice, 3 times a day .
• Add 30-40 leaves of Basil in a liter of water, strain the leaves and drink the water throughout the day effective for asthma.

Curing Constipation

Causes:

Constipation is caused by wrong bowel habits, According to Ayurveda it is mainly caused by aggravation of Vata (air) though it can sometimes be caused by aggravation of pitta and kapha.
Improper eating habits including eating a lot of food, eating food which is difficult to digest (such as meat) and not eating enough vegetables and salads also lead to constipation. Irregular sleeping habits or emotional disturbances (stress, grief, fear or worry) are other causes for the constipation.

Remedies:

• In case of constipation one should be very careful with the use of laxatives as they can often weaken the colon due to their strong action. They should be taken only in acute conditions. It is better to use simple diet remedies. A lot can be recovered by proper eating habits.
• Eating freshly cooked food is helpful. Spices like cumin seeds, coriander, turmeric powder, fennel and asafetida is good as it makes the food easily digestive.
• Proper chewing of food is very important.
• Take plenty of leafy vegetables and salads.
• Drinking a glass of warm milk at the time of going to bed helps in evacuation, the next morning. In case of severe constipation mixing two tea spoonful of castor oil in the milk is very helpful.
• Taking lemon juice mixed with warm water two or three times a day also cleans the bowels.
• Very common and popular Ayurvedic medicine for constipation used by many Ayurvedic physicians is Triphala Churna/ Triphala tablets It is a powder made by grinding three kinds of fruits or herbs. This powder is now available in many western countries. 3 to 6 gms. of this powder - OR - 2- 3 tablets taken at the time going to bed with warm water or milk helps in having a clean bowel motion the next morning.
• A glass lukewarm milk with 10 gram ghee at bed time will also help
• 'Gandharva Haritaki Churna' at bed time with lukewarm water an another helpful remedy.

Diet:

• Take ample fruits, fruit juices, salads, leafy and green vegetables. Whole grain bread can be taken. Unpolished rice can be taken moderately.

• Fried foods and beans should be avoided. Vegetables like cabbage, cauliflower, broccoli are not good. Nuts and dry fruits should also be avoided.

• It is very much necessary to form a habit of evacuating early morning. Regular physical exercise is also important for having clear bowels. One should try to have relaxed mind, free from anxiety, stress etc.

Absolute No-nos! :

• --Pasteurized milk
• --Cooked eggs
• --Overcooked Meats
• --Refined starch.

Curing Diabetes

In today's stressful modern living, incidence of Diabetes is definitely increasing. Every now and then we come across patients of Diabetes seeking Ayurvedic treatment and advice. Here is a brief description of Prameha (Diabetes)

It is a chronic metabolic disorder in which the body is unable to make proper use of glucose resulting in hyperglycemia (high blood sugar) and glycosuria (sugar in urine).
Poorly managed diabetes can lead to a host of long-term complications like :-
Heart attacks.
Strokes.
Blindness.
Nerve damage.
Amputation of Limb.
Impotence in men.
Pruritus (Itching)

Recent studies in the USA have revealed that if we keep our 'blood sugar' close to normal, there is a chance to resist Diabetes and it's complications.

According to Ayurveda There are 20 forms of this disease: 4 are due to Vata, 6 result from Pitta, and 10 are caused by Kapha. But prameha is mainly kapha doshaja disease.
All forms of diabetes not treated to, eventually develop into Madhumeha (Diabetes Melitus).

Causes –

1] Diet increasing kapha dosha such as sugar, fats, potatoes, rice.
2] Lack of exercise.
3] Mental stress and strain.
4] Excessive sleep etc.

Symptoms –
1] Excessive urine formation & Frequent urination.
2] Burning of palms and soles.
3] Increased hunger
4]Excessive Thirst.
5]Sweet taste to mouth etc.
6]Weight Loss
7]Blurry Vision
8]Wounds that take time to heal
9]Skin Infections
10]Unexplained extreme fatigue
Remedies –
1] Diet planning- is the cornerstone of managing diabetes.The diabetic diet is an otherwise normal balanced diet, with a few modifications and proper spacing between food intakes. Avoid diet increasing kapha dosha such as sugar, fats, potatoes, rice. Avoid alcohol
2] Daily exercise- One of the methods to heal prameha include strenuous exercises. Regular exercise in any form is a must.
In 'Yogasanas' -Forward bending asanas like 'Paschimottanasan','Halasan' etc. are effective
3]Restrict and reduce weight.
4] Avoid sleeping during daytime.
5] Avoid smoking.
6] Try to reduce stress by implimenting 'Yoga'practice.

Useful herbs –
1] Jambhul (Eugenia jambolana)Powder from jamun core is useful.
2]Gurmar(gymnema sylvestre).
3]Sagar gota (Ceasalpinia crista).
4]Bel (Aegle marmelos).
5]Shilájit.
6]Turmeric.
7]Neem.
8] Triphala

Useful drug formulations –
1]Chandrabrabha.
2]Arogyavardhini.
3]Asanad tablets
4] Shilajit Vati
5]Trivanga bhasma.
6]Vasant Kusumakar
Diet – Use barly ,Varee, Mung, Kulittha, Chickpeas, old rice, bitter gourd, Dodaka, dudhee gourd in diet. Roasted rice and wheat are more useful . Include 'Tikta ras' items in diet.

In summation, diabetes is not just a lack of insulin. Its most probable cause is plain poor maintenance of your body. It 's cure will need to include all of these things discussed. By doing all, diet, herbs, exercise and stress management, we will be able to take care of a single problem Diabetis.

* Related Articles :

• Ayurveda For Pre-Diabetes
• Obesity
• Overweight
• Facts about Diabetes
• Diabetes on Rampage
• Exercise & Diabetes
• Restful Night's Sleep Holds Back Diabetes
• Obesity/Diabetes Could Hit Life Expectancy

Pre-diabetes

The days of being told you have a "touch of sugar" or that your blood sugar is just a little "borderline high" are over. This relaxed attitude has lead to serious consequences for many who assumed "Why worry if I'm not there yet." Sadly, diabetes is frequently not diagnosed until complications appear. In an effort to get people to pay more attention, new lower cut-offs for pre-diabetes have been established.

What is pre-diabetes?
Pre-diabetes is a new term used to describe blood sugars which are elevated but not high enough to be diagnostic of diabetes. It is estimated that nearly 42 million Americans over the age of 40 have this new diagnosis. Pre-diabetes is diagnosed when your fasting blood sugar falls between 100-126 mg/dl.

CAUTION !!
If untreated, a majority of those with pre-diabetes will develop diabetes within 10 years. Uncontrolled diabetes can cause blindness, kidney failure, heart attacks, strokes and a long list of other serious complications.
A more immediate concern is that pre-diabetes increases the risk of heart attacks, strokes and heart disease by 50 percent. With the new lower threshold, it is hoped that more cases of pre-diabetes will be detected early enough so there is time to turn things around.

Getting Tested
Pre-diabetes can be diagnosed with either a fasting blood sugar test or an oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT) which is when blood sugars are measured two hours after drinking a glucose- (sugar) containing solution.

BLOOD SUGAR TEST	Normal	Pre-Diabetes	Diabetes
Fasting Plamsa Glucose	<100>	100-126 mg/dl	127 mg/dl
2 Hour OGTT	<140>	140-199 mg/dl	200 mg/dl

Testing for diabetes and pre-diabetes is recommended at three-year intervals beginning at age 45. Testing should be done more often or at an earlier age in those with known risk factors for diabetes. Having a yearly physical will allow your doctor to screen you for known risk factors and provide an opportunity to do important lab work which can detect problems in advance.

GOOD NEWS !!
If you have pre-diabetes, you can do something about it NOW !
Key elements for preventing diabetes and staying healthy are - Simple lifestyle changes -- including healthier diets, regular exercise (30 minutes five times per week) and a modest weight loss of five to seven percent. And you can cut your chances of getting diabetes by almost 60 percent.

What these simple changes in lifestyle could be ?
What is the best exercise suitable for Diabetes prevention ??
How to achieve the desired weight loss safely and permanantly ???

Ayurveda has provided right answer to these questions. In fact this is the theam of our Best seller e-book "Ayurvedic Cure of Diabetes"

* Related Articles :

• Diabetes
• Obesity
• Overweight
• Facts about Diabetes
• Diabetes on Rampage
• Exercise & Diabetes
• Restful Night's Sleep Holds Back Diabetes
• Obesity/Diabetes Could Hit Life Expectancy

AYURVEDIC WAY TO THE HEART

'Heart Disease'(Hrudroga) is a global phenomenon. It is now becoming a major health problem even in the developing countries.
The predisposing factors are heredity, high blood pressure, diabetes, high serum cholesterol and smoking. The way of living and the way of feeling appear to be quite an important factor in its increasing incidence.
The All India Institute of Medical Sciences recently held a conference where doctors from around the world discussed the efficacy of Ayurvedic drugs in relation to a 'heart-diseases. The medical fraternity agreed that India's ancient stream of medicine has some miracle cures for cardio-vascular diseases.
Cardiovascular problems have been dealt with at length in Ayurveda, which describes 'Hridaya' (heart) as a body organ governing emotions and circulating blood to keep a person alive and healthy.

Pathogenesis of Heart Problems

Cardiac problems arise mainly due to improper diet and stressful life styles. " These lead to thickening of arteries (dhamani praticaya) or hardening of arteries (dhamani kathinaya) resulting in angio-obstruction (vata dosa) and angina (ruja). "
High blood pressure that hammers the arterial walls roughens them and causes the arterial wall to thicken. fatty cholesterol particles get deposited under the inner lining of the arteries (i.e. atherosclerosis). The higher the pressure more the deposits will occur. Subsequently these deposits become calcified due to fibrous growth and involved arteries lose their elasticity. It prevents blood from flowing easily and may lead to clotting. The clot formation can suddenly choke off the blood supply and lead to a heart attack, stroke or kidney failure.

What Ayurveda can offer -

Ayurved is very much concerned about conservation of health. Ayurved presumes that improper dietary habits give rise to various disorders. With practice of dietary measures recommended in Ayurveda while elaborating ‘Medoroga Chikitsa’ will definitely beneficial in weight reduction. It will be helpful to minimize the risk of fatty cholesterol deposits and will prevent complication of high blood pressure.

You can improving your lifestyle and remove unnecessary stress by following some simple rules -

• Take strict vegetarian low fat diet.
• Coffee may increase your blood pressure. Coffee, which contains caffeine, enhances the action of adrenaline and noradrenaline and both are important in increasing blood pressure levels.
• Cigarette smokers tend to have high blood pressure. Nicotine increases the resting heart rate and increases the release of the adrenaline substances that tends to increase blood pressure. Cigarette smoking alone significantly increases risk of having heart attack.
• Regular Exercise helps to eliminate body fat, lower total cholesterol and raise HDL cholesterol that prevents fatty - cholesterol deposits. According to Ayurveda exercise improves the body, depletes excess fats, brings lightness of the body.
• Nurture love and affection all over the world. Love and affection and affectionate touch can significantly drop, your blood pressure.
• Be cool don’t get annoyed, speaking loudly and rapidly can significantly raise your blood pressure Chronic anger produces elevation in blood pressure and it can be a serious risk factor for coronary - heart - disease. So be cool, speak softly and gently
• Laughter is the best medicine:- Laughter is as good as relaxation therapy, exercise or other methods used to overcome stress. Study shows that laughter decreases adrenaline and cortisol production. Laughter can help you if you are having high blood pressure. If you are frustrated, unhappy, angry, just laugh and find yourself away from rage. It is of the effective medicine you always have with your, without spending a penny for it.
• Meditation: - Try to ease yourself with meditation and by performing yogic asanas like Shavasana.

Other medications according to Ayurveda -

As mentioned earlier we can see signs and symptoms of derangement of vata dosha and vyana vayu in high blood pressure. The treatment is to correct the balance of vata dosha.

Rasona or garlic is most important substance helpful in alleviating vata dosha controlling blood pressure. A paste made of about 1gm of garlic should be mixed with a glass of buttermilk. Drink this buttermilk twice a day. It will bring your blood pressure down.Garlic lowers cholesterol and triglyceride that have impact on heart disease.

Soak 1tsp fenugreek seed in water for a night and munch them early in the morning on empty stomach. It will reduce your cholesterol and excess fats.You can purchase the 'Lashunadi Vati' Tablets from our online drug store.

A study conducted at the Gujarat Ayurvedic University, drugs such as Terminalia Arjuna and Jaharmohara were administered to heart patients. In 66 percent of the cases the levels of chest pains, palpitation and fatigue came down dramatically and blood pressure and pulse rate came back to normal.

The drug Terminalia Arjuna has been used in Ayurveda for cardiac ailments since ancient times. Arjuna is a dense and tall tree and has long, cone shaped round leaves and white bark used in medicines. This tree is called nadisarjja in Sanskrit and its bark is described as a cardiac tonic. The tree is indigenous to India though it is found also in Myanmar and Sri Lanka. Besides the heart, Terminalia Arjuna is said to be beneficial for internal bleeding, ulcers, asthma, diarrhea and dysentery. You can purchase the 'Arjuna' Tablets or Powder from our online drug store.

Jaharmorha is another Ayurvedic drug used in the treatment of cardio-vascular diseases. It is a yellowish-green soft stone found in the Himalayas. Its powder is processed with rose water and administered to heart patients.

Triphala Guggul is yet another Ayurvedic preparation found useful in reducing cholesterol levels. You can purchase the 'Triphala Guggul' from our online drug store.

Related Articles :

• 'Heart care' -
• Hypertension and Ayurveda
• Ayurvedic Treatment for Heart Diseases
• Management of Heart Disease

Related Ebook :

 AYURVEDA FOR HEART DISEASES

What is infertility ?
Incapability of the woman to conceive, after one year of regular sexual union without contraceptives, or to retain the fetus till childbirth is called as infertility. It is a problem, which not only affects the physical life of the woman but also disturbs the social and emotional life of the couple. According to some experts about half the childless marriages are due to abnormalities in the male partners though women are traditionally blamed for sterility. Infertility is also assigned to factors relating to non production of sperms or to other reasons relating to quality.

Factors Involved in Creating a Healthy Child
According to Ayurveda

, conception takes place due to healthy sperm, healthy ovum, and a healthy uterus. For both men and women, reproductive health depends on the health of the shukra dhatu, or reproductive tissue. In women the shukra tissue creates the ovum as part of the monthly cycle, and in men the semen is formed due to sexual stimulation.

The shukra tissue itself is created as part of a long chain of metabolic transformations, starting with the digestion of food and including the transformation of food to nutrient fluid, blood, muscle, fat, bone, bone marrow and finally, to shukra tissue. Healthy shukra tissue, then, according to ayurveda, depends on the health of all the other tissues in the body.

causes of infertility :

• Problems with infertility can arise when nutrition does not reach the reproductive tissue; this can happen due to under nutrition, poor digestion or obstruction due to toxins.
• Having sex by compulsion with a person whom you do not like.
• Eating spicy, salty and hot food increase pitta and destroys shukra (semen).
• Overindulgence in sexual activities leads to shukra kshaya. It may lead to clibya (impotency).
• By controlling sexual urges for longer duration leads to veeryaavarodha (Obstruction of semen) and this leads to decreased libido.
• Infertility can also arise when the reproductive tissue is damaged by infection or trauma.
• Some acquire the impotency by birth

General Guidelines for treatment:

• Determine the Constitution of both the partners
• Clear any obstructions or blockages
• Tonify any weaknesses
• Ensure that the digestive fire is strong
• Ensure that the nervous system is relaxed
• Being loving and loved is the best tonic for fertility

Curing Kidney diseases

The kidneys have important tasks to perform in the human system. These are (i) regulation of the volume of the body fluids, (ii) elimination of inorganic ions both cations (e.g. Na+, K+) or anions (e.g. Cl', phosphate, SO4) from the body, (iii) maintenance of appropriate plasma concentration of non-electrolytes such as glucose and urea, (iv) maintaining electrolyte balance by H+ and OH- ions and thus adidity or alkalinity of the blood, (v) elimination of waste products especially the nitrogen and sulphur containing substances as well as the toxic substances

' v:shapes="_x0000_i1029">

(e.g. drugs) which have entered the body, and (vi) retention of substances vital to body economy. These also have some more functions. Major diseases or Kidney disorders are Anuria or oliguria (complete to cessation or less formation of urine), polyuria (frequent passage of small quantities of urine), abnormal constituents in urine (e.g. blood, pus etc.), Nephritis, pyelitis (inflamanation of the parenchyma & pelvis of the Kidney) uraemia (i.e. renal failure causing retention of abnormal amounts of urea in the blood), renal colic due to calculus or such other condition, Dysuria (painfull passage of urine).

A simple Urine test for Albumin and a Blood test for Serum Creatinine. The increased level of Albumin and Serum Creatinine will tell if the kidneys are getting effected. Other symptoms

which show kidney problems are: High Blood Pressure, Decreased Hoemoglobin and High Blood Urea.

Causes of Kidney Damage :

Basically human health miseries could be attributed to

• (i) abnormalities in anatomical and physiological level,
• (ii) interaction or stress of biotic factors (various in fections),
• (iii) Abiotic stress which includes Ahar, Vihar and Achar,
• (iv) mental imbalance due to predominence of tamsik and rajsik bhavas rather than Sattvik and
• (v) easy entry of microvita owing to suitability of mental and physical bodies.

Besides above a new dimension is added by adverse side effects of modern allopathic medicines. Most probably this is due to administering active ingredients in pure form. This certainly provides quick action but at the same time damages the system in other ways. The crude medication system of Ayurveda allows the human system to assimilate the active ingredient as well as some related compounds in a natural way and thus avoids any such bad effects on the system. One of the potent causes of increasing incidences of kidney disorders, today, is the side effects of modern medicines or wrong medication or over dosages in certain cases.

Ayurvedic Care & Cure - Ayurveda provides the best treatments. Ayurveda adopts three approaches to tackle a human malady. These are (i) toning up the weak bodily system, (ii) prevention of disorder, and (iii) treating the disorder or disease through medicines or surgery.
Useful herbs are:

A. Fruits:

• (i) Dry fruits : Pistachio, almonds and chilgoja are useful to tone up weak kidneys,
• (ii) fresh fruits: Mango is beneficial to remove weakness of Kidneys. Fresh pine apple 60 g daily is useful for the cure of Kidney stone.
• Flacourtia ramonohii L. (Governor's apple or Kantai) bark is astringent and diuretic.
• Cordia myxa Roxb. (Lisora) fruits are poison antidote and diuretic, its decoction relieves painful micturition.
• Coconut water is very efficacous in urinary troubles.
• Eugenia jambolana Lamk : Stones of fruits are very useful to relieve diabetes and polyurea.
• Punica granatum Linn. (Pomegranate): Outer fruit skin dried in shade, powdered and taken 4g with water twice a day for 10 days cures polyurea. Rice food must be avoided.
• Banana (Musa sepientum) : Take a banana fruit and 25 ml juice of amla with sugar cures urinary and spleen troubles.
• Phyllanthus emblica L.( Aunla or Amla) : Juice of green fruits 50 g with 20 g honey given 2-3 times during the day cures urinary troubles.
• Bel : Take fresh pulp of ripe bel (Aegle marmelos L.) and mix with water, add some milk and sugar to it, drink after straining. This will relieve retention of urine in no time.
• Grape (Vitis vinifera): Take three raisins and remove their seeds then enclose one black pepper in each of them. These should be taken at bed time for a few days continuously to cure strangury (urination by drops).

B. Vegetables:

• (i) Leafy : Punarnava (Borhavia diffusa), Palak (Spinacia oleracea L), Corchorus capsularis L., (calsak), Patua sak (Corchorus olitorius L.), Portulacar oleracea L. (Kulfa or Lona Sag), chuka (Rumex vesicarius L.), Ramdana (Amaranthus caudatus L.).
• (ii) Fruits: Sanke cucumber (Cucumis utilissimus Roxb.) Seeds are efficacious in curing urinary and kidney diseases. Pumpkin (Cucurbita moschaxa L.) : Pulp is slightly warmed after crushing and then applied to relieve painful kidney problems. Similarly seeds of Cucumis melo Linn. (Muskmelon or Kharbuja) and Kheera (Cucumis sativus Linn.) are efficacious in urinary troubles. Water melon (Tarbuj) fruit juice with kalmisora and sugar placed overnight in glass tumbler in the moonlit night and taken first in the morning for about 7 days. It is very beneficial in urinary problems. Lauki (water gourd): Juice & pulp with Kalmisora very efficacious in relieving kidney and urinary troubles.
• (iii) Root vegetables:
  1. Carrot (Daucus carota L.) fruit juice cures kidney troubles.
  2. Radish (Raphanus sativus L.): Leaves & small sized roots are efficacious to effect cure.
  3. Alocasia indica (Roxb.) Schott. Mankand use of corms is beneficial in the form of vegetable.
  4. Onion (Allium cepa L.) juice of bulb is beneficial.
• (iv) Flowers of red variety of Moringa i.e. Sahanjan is highly efficacious as cure of kidney disorders.

"AYURVEDA AND LIVER CARE"

"Is life worth living? It depends on the liver!"

The liver is the largest glandular organ in the body, and has more functions than any other human organ. A person's entire blood supply passes through the liver several times a day, and at any given time there is about a pint of blood there.
The Liver has a pivotal role in human metabolism.

• The liver produces and secretes bile (to be stored in the gallbladder until needed) that is used to break down and digest fatty acids.
• It also produces prothrombin and fibrinogen, both blood-clotting factors, and heparin, a mucopolysaccharide sulfuric acid ester that helps keep blood from clotting within the circulatory system.
• The liver converts sugar into glycogen, which it stores until the muscles need energy and it is secreted into the blood stream as glucose.
• The liver synthesises proteins and cholesterol and converts carbohydrates and proteins into fats, which are stored for later use.
• It also produces blood protein and hundreds of enzymes needed for digestion and other bodily functions.
• The liver also produces urea, while breaking down proteins, which it synthesises from carbon dioxide and ammonia. It is eventually excreted by the kidneys.
• The liver also stores critical trace elements such as iron and copper, as well as vitamins A, D, and B12.
• The liver is also responsible for detoxifying the body of poisonous substances by transforming and removing toxins and wastes. There are five main sources of body toxins and wastes that the liver deals with: toxins from food (traces of pesticides, preservatives)and alcohol; toxins from outside (drugs, adulterants, and environmental pollutants); internally produced chemicals, such as hormones, that are no longer needed; nitrogen-containing waste left over from protein re-use; and energy production. These toxins and wastes are converted into less harmful substances by the liver and then eliminated from the body.

Because of the significant role the liver plays in maintaining our health, we must do all we can to keep it functioning properly.

Symptoms of a "sluggish liver"
These are fatigue, general malaise, digestive problems, blood sugar regulation disorders (such as hypoglycaemia), high cholesterol, psoriasis, allergies and chemical sensitivities and constipation. Extreme cases of liver problems would be jaundice, hepatitis and cirrhosis.

In this article, we'll review the most common liver disease - hepatitis and cirrhosis. Then will see what Ayurveda can offer for the protection of this vital organ and survey Ayurvedic treatment of liver disease.

Hepatitis

Among the many diseases that can affect the liver the most common is 'viral hepatitis' (Inflammation of liver caused by viral infection). Hepatitis can be caused by drugs, viruses, bacteria, mushrooms, parasites like amoebas or giardiasis. The most common hepatitis viruses affecting the liver are named for letters of the alphabet: hepatitis A, hepatitis B, hepatitis C, hepatitis D, and hepatitis E.

Hepatitis A - takes 14 to 21 days after infection to cause symptoms. It is transmitted through food.
Once infected with HAV, some symptoms such as dark yellow urine and fatigue will begin to appear within 25 days.

Hepatitis B - is on the increase world-wide. It is transmitted through direct contact with blood, serum, saliva, faeces, urine, and sexual contact.

Hepatitis C - is a truly serious disease with no known effective treatment. It is transmitted through blood and body fluids in transfusions, injections, the sharing of IV needles with drug users, and possibly by sexual contact with exposed partners.

Hepatitis D - only occurs in the presence of Hepatitis B virus

Hepatitis E - is another common type of hepatitis in developing countries. It occurs in epidemics. The infection route for it is faecal-oral, the same as the route for Hepatitis A virus; therefore, again, you must be very careful in what you eat and drink.

Treatment of Hepatitis

Usually Hepatitis A is self-limiting. Most of the Hepatitis A virus patients will return to normal in between four to six weeks time. The antibodies that the body's immune system develops kill the infection and also produce immunity to Hepatitis A virus

But with Hepatitis B virus and Hepatitis C virus, many people will go into a chronic phase that leads to chronic phase. With chronic HBV and HCV, 30% of patients develop cirrhosis of the liver or hepatocellular carcinoma.

In modern medicine, the only protection against hepatitis are the HAV and the HBV vaccines. There is nothing available for HCV protection so far. Therefore, limiting our exposure to hepatitis is the best prevention. We have to take the responsibility for prevention of hepatitis ourselves. This means using safe sexual practices, taking precautions when exposed to blood and blood products; avoiding the sharing of IV needles; taking care to eat in restaurants that enforce hand-washing policies among their employees; and avoiding scavenger seafood. These measures can cut your chances of being infected with hepatitis to a minimum.

Cirrhosis

Cirrhosis of the liver is a chronic, diffuse degenerative liver disease in which the parenchyma (the functional organ tissue) degenerates, the lobules are infiltrated with fat and structurally altered, dense perilobular connective tissue forms, and areas of regeneration often develop.
Cirrhosis is the seventh leading cause of death by disease in the United States. In most cases, though, there is a loss of liver cell function, and an increased resistance to blood flow through the damaged liver tissue (a condition known as portal hypertension) leading to oesophageal varices. Severe cirrhosis leads to ammonia toxicity, hepatic coma, gastrointestinal haemorrhage, and kidney failure. As liver cells are destroyed, they are systematically replaced by scar tissue.
The most common cause of cirrhosis is believed to be alcohol abuse Though it affects many organs, alcohol is especially harmful to the liver, and is a factor in about three-fourths of the cases of liver cirrhosis . Alcohol must be metabolized, and the liver performs most of that job, suffering serious damage in the process. Not only does alcohol destroy liver cells, it also robs them of their ability to regenerate. Such cofactors as hepatitis C virus can increase the risk of cirrhosis

Treatment of liver cirrhosis

More than half of all liver disease could be prevented if we acted on the knowledge we already have. Avoiding or limiting the use of alcoholic beverages. Man-made chemicals also pose an extreme threat to the liver
Once cirrhosis has been diagnosed, sodium and fluids should be restricted, and all alcohol consumption must cease. Antiemetics, diuretics, and supplemental vitamins are prescribed. Patients should avoid exposure to infections and eat small but frequent meals of nutritious foods. The liver is the only organ that can generate healthy, new tissue. It is therefore possible to regenerate a cirrhosis-damaged liver if extraordinary therapies are followed and the underlying cause of the cirrhosis is eliminated.
Interferon-alpha, a powerful antiviral, may reduce the risk of cancer in some cirrhosis patients. In cases of total liver failure, transplantation has been successful.

Ayurvedic Medicine in Treating Liver Disease

Hepatitis A virus can be taken care of very easily with herbs. Many of the Ayurvedic herbs have shown remarkable results in clinical trials and studies. One of these is Eclipta Alba (Bhringaraj), others are Boerhavia diffusa (Punarnava) , and Picrorhiza kurroa (Katuki).

It is recommend that people take these herbs on a prophylactic basis when travelling to parts of the world where hepatitis infection is a risk.

HBV and HCV are more serious infections. We must be careful how we use Ayurvedic herbs for prevention of HBV and HCV. The herbs mentioned earlier have shown a protective action in HBV, and using them on a regular basis may be a good way to prevent HBV.
Ayurvedic medicines play a significant role in protecting the liver from cirrhosis and from liver cancer. Animal and clinical studies done with Phyllanthus Amarus, Phyllanthus Niruri, and Eclipta Alba have proven their ability to reverse HBV infections in approximately 60% to 70% of patients. More significantly, with these herbs we are able to stop the process, which leads to cirrhosis and cancer of the liver.

This means that even if we are not able to make some patients negative for HBV and HCV, we can still protect them from cirrhosis of the liver, in which the liver stops functioning, and liver cancer.
Take very good care of your health. To protect your liver, avoid alcohol and caffeine. Drink green tea, exercise, reduce stress, and use the herbs mentioned above. Give this hard-working and essential part of your body a rest and a tune-up, and you will be rewarded with better health, more energy and higher disease resistance.

Research work on Hepatoprotective Plants -

Andrographis paniculata (kalmegh)

Andrographolide, the active constituent isolated from the plant Andrographis paniculata, showed a significant dose dependent (0.75 - 12 mg/kg p.o. x7) protective activity against paracetamol-induced toxicity on ex vivo preparation of isolated rat hepatocytes. It significantly increased the percent viability of the hepatocytes as tested by trypan blue exclusion and oxygen uptake tests. It completely antagonized the toxic effects of paracetamol on certain enzymes (GOT, GPT and alkaline phosphatase) in serum as well as in isolated hepatic cells. Andrographolide was found to be more potent than silymarin, a standard hepatoprotective agent.^[4]
For centuries Andrographis has been an important herb in the Asian healing systems of Ayurveda, Unani and Traditional Chinese Medicine. Traditionally this herb has been used to potentiate immune system response to inflammation and infections, and as an anti-inflammatory, antipyretic (lowers fevers) and a hepatoprotective (liver protector).

Phyllanthus Amaris (Bhuiamala)

Phyllanthus Amaris has been researched for its effects on hepatitis, and in 1988 Thyagaran et al. (ibid) reported that 22 of 37 cases of Hepatitis B lost their "carrier" status after using the herb for a monthBoerhavia diffusa (Punarnava)

An alcoholic extract of whole plant Boerhavia diffusa given orally exhibited hepatoprotective activity against experimentally induced carbon tetrachloride hepatotoxicity in rats and mice. The extract also produced an increase in normal bile flow in rats suggesting a strong choleretic activity. The extract does not show any signs of toxicity up to an oral dose of 2g/kg in mice.^[7]

Eclipta alba (Bhringaraj)

The hepatoprotective effect of the ethanol/water (1:1) extract of Eclipta alba was studied at subcellular levels in rats against (CCl₄) -induced hepatotoxicity. The loss of hepatic lysomal acid phosphatase and alkaline phosphatase by (CCl₄) was significantly restored by Ea. The study shows that hepatoprotective activity of Ea is by regulating the levels of hepatic microsomal drug metabolising enzymes.^[6]

Swertia Chirata(Chirayata)

Simultaneous treatments with S. Chirata (in different doses, viz, 20, 50, and 100 mg/kg body wt daily) and (CCl₄) caused improvement at both biochemical and histopathological parameters compared to that of (CCl₄) treatment alone but it was most effective when S. chirata was administered in a moderate dose (50 mg/kg body wt).^[2]

Terminalia belerica(Baheda)

Compound I isolated from fraction TB5 of Terminalia belerica and finally identified as 3,4,5-trihydroxy benzoic acid (gallic acid) was evaluated for its hepatoprotective activity against carbon tetrachloride (CCl₄) - induced physiological and biochemical alterations in the liver. Administration of compound I led to significant reversal of majority of the altered parameters. Our results confirm the presence of hepatoprotective activity in altered parameters. Our results confirm the presence of hepatoprotective activity in Compound I.^[3]

Tinospora cordifolia(Guduchi)

Outstanding results in people suffering from jaundice have been obtained using a herb called Tinospora Cordifolia: In 1993, Rege et al. (ibid) used the herb in malignant obstructive jaundice: half of the group received conventional treatment - drugs and drainage - the other half were treated with drainage plus T. Cordifolia. After conclusion of treatment, 50% of the drug-treated group were found to have blood poisoning while none of the herb treated group developed this problem. After surgery, only 40% of the drug-treated group survived, whereas an amazing 92.4% 0f those treated with the herb lived.

The hepatoprotective effect of T. Cordifolia has been studied in carbon tetrachloride induced liver damage in rats. While acute damage was enhanced by prior exposure to the drug, it proved effective in the prevention of fibrosis, and in stimulating regeneration of hepatic tissue.^[1]

Picrorhiza kuroa (Katuki)

Picrorrhiza Kurroa is one of the herbs they recommend to support the liver not only in everyday situations, but in cases where severe viral infections attack: a 1996 study by Vaidya found protection against viral hepatitis, and other studies have demonstrated its helpfulness in protecting against alcohol.^[8]
The hepatoprotective activity of picroliv, the irridoid glycoside mixture from Picrorhiza kuroa, was determined in adult male albino rats. Pretreatment with picroliv prevented the hepatotoxic effects of paracetamol and galactosamine as evidenced by varios biochemical and histopathological observations. Maximum hepatoprotective effect was observed with daily oral doses of 6 and 12 mg/kg for 7 or 8 days. The antihepatotoxic action of picroliv seems likely due to an alteration in the biotransformation of the toxic substances resulting in decreased formation of reactive metabolites.^[4]

Curing low back pain

Low back pain is one of the most common pain disorders today .It is a chronic condition characterized by a persistent dull or sharp pain per the lower back. It may be also associated with burning, stiffness, numbness or tingling with the pain shooting down the buttocks and the legs.
When we stand, the lower back functions to hold most of the weight of the body. When we bend, extend or rotate at the waist, the lower back is involved in the movement. Low back ache is often precipitated by moving, lifting objects or twisting of the waist. Severe pain in the low back can be quite debilitating to patients. Pain in the lower back restricts activity and reduces work capacity and quality of enjoyment of everyday living and turns daily life into a misery.
Survey indicates that 70 per cent of the people suffer from low back pain at some time in their lives. The highest rate of back pain occurs among the 45 to 64 year age group. The incidence of low back pain is greater among women. In 90 per cent of the patients, low back pain resolves within six weeks, i.e. self limited. In another 5 per cent the pain resolves by 12 weeks. Less than 5 per cent of back paid account for true nerve root pain.

Causes
One of the common causes for the backache is poor posture habit. Balanced posture decreases stress on your back by keeping the muscles, bones and other supporting parts in their natural position. Any change from normal spinal curve can stress or pull muscles. This leads to increased muscle contraction, which causes pain. Low back pain can result due to health problems like osteoporosis, scoliosis, spinal stenosis. Sprain or strain of muscles or ligaments in the area can also manifest in low back pain. Other possible causes include fibromyalgia and benign or malignant tumours. A fall or blow to the back can strain or tear tissues around the spine, or even break a bone leading to back pain. Lack of exercise or incorrect exercise can also lead to low back pain. Too much weight or overweight also is a cause of low back pain.

Treatment
Conservative treatment is the most likely course of action for most patients. Treatment options include rest, Traction, Short wave diathermy, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medications, weight control, steroid injections in step by step order.
If a patients does not get relief after 8 to 12 weeks of conservative therapy surgical intervention is considered. The most common surgical procedure is a discectomy, which involves removing the soft gel-like material in the disc. This procedure returns the disc to a more normal shape, relieving the pressure on the nerve. the neurosurgeon can also perform a foraminotomy, which is a procedure designed to expand the opening the nerve travels through.
Drugs and knives don’t always work because from 60% to 90% of disease is not the result of structural injury, but rather of the mind-body response to stress

Ayurvedic Perspective
Ayurveda holds that low back pain is a result of vitiation of one of the three principal 'doshas'. 'Kateegraham'/'Prishtasoola' or low back pain is an indication of Vata aggravation and bone and muscle weakness.

Ayurvedic Treatment
Treatment in Ayurveda is to bring the vitiated 'dosha' back to the state of equilibrium and thereby to the state of health. For treating low back pain, internal as well as external treatments are done. Herbal preparations like 'Asthavargam' are administered internally. Daily purgation is recommended to restore the vitiated 'dosha' to the state of normalcy.
Ayurvedic Panchakarma treatments like Abhyanga (oil massage), Basti (meditated enema) are very much helpful in relieving backache and correcting abnormalities. Drugs like Yogarajaguggul, Lakshadiguggul, Triphala Guggul, Mahanarayana tailam are useful in this condition.

Yoga and Yogasana
The source of the pain is due most often to pushing oneself beyond physical or emotional capacity. The spine needs stability and, therefore, the mind must first be steady. So, the first step is to learn to relax the mind and focus on the specific areas of back pain. With practice, you can redirect the body's energy and affect the pain.
Among the Yogasanas ,when there is pain, start with simple back-bends, such as Locust, Cat, and Sunbird. To keep the spine aligned practice Hero Pose.

Caution- Before trying any of these postures, consult with a yoga teacher or therapist to determine the best postures for your condition.

Weight gaining

Try asking people how to gain weight and you'll likely see some bewildered and confused faces staring back at you. The question is quite legitimate one and one that frustrates those who find themselves on the light end of the scale.

While most of the people find overweight problems and struggle to keep the kilos off, others find it just as challenging to put weight on. Though myriad advise is available on 'How to loose weigh' , it can be a lonely struggle for those who want to put on weight.

Risks associated with being too underweight -

• Complications in surgery and slow recovery after illnesses.
• Greater tendency to vattika diseases,
• Impaired immunity,
• Bone/joint problems,
• Anemia etc.

It is important to see that the weight you want to gain should be equally distributed all over the body, and not only around your waist

Following are some of the guidelines for gaining weight -

• To gain weight, eat food with extremely high caloric value.
• Try to increase your food intake without consuming too much fat and sugar.
• Regular meals, especially breakfast, are important if you find it difficult to gain weight.
• Eat Late - Having snacks at bedtime may help to gain weight.
• Relax after having meal.
• Eat Frequently- Eat five or more meals a day.
• Do regular exercise.

Recommended Ayurvedic preparations -

• Chyavanprash
• Shatavari Kalpa
• Makardhwaj Gold
• Vasant kusumakar rasa

Curing Obesity

Obesity is a condition in which individual is significantly overweight. Excessive body fat is accumulated on the belly, buttocks, breasts and thighs. This may lead to diabetes, hypertension and arthritis.

causes:

mainly due to absence of physical activity. Other causes may be sleeping during the day, intake of Kapha - increasing foods (heavy, sweet, cooling and unctuous food in excess). Over intake of food.
Heredity and Pathology are rare causes

Pathogenesis
Body is made of 7- Dhatus {Rasa (Lymph), Rakta (Blood), Maans (Muscle), Meda( Fat), Asthi (Bones), Majja (Nervous System) Shukra (Reproductive System)}. But in Obese fellow Meda is excessively nourished and remaining other Dhatus get malnourished. Kapha gets accumulated in between. Roll of medicines with dietary correction is to remove obstructed Kapha and let all Dhatus nourish equally. When Kapha increases in abnormal fashion, Fat metabolism gets hampered and person becomes Obese.

Three important points for loosing weight:

1. Controlling eating habits.

2. Regular exercise.

3. Avoiding the causes of weight gain

Calory Calculator Gadgets powered by Google

A diet that helps to lose weight:

• Early morning - A glass of warm water mixed with the juice of half a lemon. A teaspoonful of honey can be added if you like.

• Breakfast - Wheat or Mung (green beans) sprouts and one cup skimmed milk.

• Mid morning- A glass of orange, pineapple or carrot juice.

• Lunch - Salad of raw vegetables such as carrot, beet, cucumber, cabbage, tomatoes. In case you can not digest raw vegetables, either steam or boil them. Whole grain bread or whole wheat chapatis (Indian recipe) and a glass of buttermilk. It will be good to add some roasted cumin seeds, green coriander leaves, a little salt and some grated ginger in the butter milk.

• Mid afternoon - Coconut water or dry fruits or lemon tea or vegetable soup.

• Dinner - Whole grain bread or chapatis, steamed vegetables and any seasonal fruit except banana and apple.

Diet and Regimen:

• Avoid cold drinks, fatty fried foods and chocolates.
• Fruits and green vegetables are low calorie foods, so over weight persons should use these more frequently include the green leafy vegetables, sprouted moong beans in your salad. Salad is to be taken without any dressing . If you want relish it, take it with lemon juice and salt. Salad should form a major part of meals
• One should avoid intake of too much salt . Salt may be a factor for increasing the body weight.
• Milk products like cheese, butter should be avoided because these are rich in fat. Meat and non-vegetarian foods should also be avoided.
• Vegetables like bitter gourd (Karela), and bitter variety of drumstick are useful for loosing weight.
• Avoid red meat (lamb/pork/beef) but be on white meat (chicken/fish).
• Avoid Smoking/ drinking alcohol.
• Do not drink water immediately after meals. Drink it after half an hour. Try to drink warm water.
• 'Honey' - Taking honey is an excellent home remedy for obesity. It mobilizes the extra deposited fat in the body and puts it into circulation which is utilized as energy for normal functions. One should start with small quantity of about 10 GMs. or a tablespoonful to be taken with hot water. It is good to take it in early morning. A teaspoonful of fresh lemon juice may also be added.
• Exercise
  Exercise is an important part of weight reduction plan. It helps to use up calories stored in body as fat. In addition, it also relieves tension and tones up the muscles of the body. Walking daily for half an hour is the best exercise to begin with and may be followed by running, swimming and rowing. Increase physical activities in daily life.

Herbs
Herbs like amla (Emblica officinalis), Haritaki (Terminalia chebula), Bibhitaka (Terminalia belericia), Guggul are effective.

Some generally used preparation for obesity are as follows :
Triphala Guggulu, Medohar Guggulu, Arogya Vardhini, Chandraprabha vati , Kumbhajatu.

Skin-care

Skin is the seat of a sense organ. The senses of touch, pain, temperature, pressure are felt by it. It is a Matruj Avyava i.e. derived from mother or having maternal origin.It gives external covering to the whole body.
The seven layers of skin get their nutrition from Mansa Dhatu {muscle tissue}. It is known as an UpDhatu (secondary tissue product) of the Raktadhatu (blood) because it only mimics the Dhatu's in beholding the body. It does not do Poshan Karma i.e. do not give nutrition to the other Dhatus.
As skin is an Upadhatu of the Raktadhatu , it is a mirror that reflects the qualities of the Raktadhatu (blood) and the Rasadhatu (body's plasma tissue).Hence it is a common saying that 'glowing skin is the result of good quality Rasa and Rakta'.
No amount of bleaching and facial massage or application of make-up through dexterity of a skilled beautician can hide the shallow look if the skin is unhealthy. Conversely, a healthy skin will always look attractive even when devoid of make-up.

Characteristics of a person with ideal skin(Twak Sar / Ras Sar)

• People with ideal skin have soft, oily, thin, smooth and lustrous skin.
• They have soft, thin, scanty, oily, black and deep-rooted hair.
• Eye - brows and eyelashes are black and smooth.
• They have good eye - sight.
• In their eyes, pupils, cornea and sclera are very well differentiated.
• Mouth, Lips, Palate and Tongue are unctuous and oily.
• These persons do not suffer from skin diseases and their wounds heal quickly.
• They are intelligent and learned and have the necessary means and wealth to beget worldly pleasures.
• They like music.
• They love their family, nation, estate, and property.
• They enjoy a long, healthy and happy life.

Know Your Ayurvedic Skin Type

The first step in the holistic Ayurvedic approach to skin care is finding out your ayurvedic skin type.

Vata skin is in generaly dry, thin,delicate and cool to the touch, easily gets dehydrated, and is very vulnerable to the influence of dry windy weather. Vata skin may age faster, and tends to be dry, rough and flaky when out of balance.

Pitta skin type tends to be fair, sensitive, soft, warm, and of medium thickness. less tolerance to hot food, less tolerance to fieriness in temperament. Pitta skin types tend to be more prone to freckles and moles than the other skin types. When out of balance, Pitta skin can flare up in rashes, rosacea, acne, or sunspots.

Kapha skin tends to have all the qualities of water and earth -- it can be oily, thick, pale, soft, cool and more tolerant of the sun. Kapha skin tends to age slower and form less wrinkles than the other two types. Kapha skin types may struggle with dull complexion, enlarged pores, excessive oil, blackheads, pimples, moist types of eczema and water retention.

"Combination" skin can be Vata-Pitta, skin that is both dry and sensitive, Kapha-Pitta-skin is oily and sensitive , and Vata-Kapha- skin that is generally dry with some oily zones.

The ayurvedic approach to caring for combination skin takes into account environmental and seasonal factors. For example, a person with Vata-Pitta skin would follow the recommendations for Pitta skin in summer and Vata skin in winter. The Kapha-Pitta type would follow Pitta recommendations in summer and Kapha recommendations in winter. The Vata-Kapha type would be best served by generally following Vata guidelines, with extra cleansing of the oily zones.

Vata Skin Care

For Vata skin to stay youthful, skin care products used should be very nurturing. They must include some essential oils or herbs in combination, which can nourish the skin and rehydrate it, otherwise it may be susceptible to wrinkles and premature aging.

Going to bed on time, eating regular meals, and following a regular daily routine are essential components of a holistic approach to Vata skin care, as are eating foods that help balance Vata and nourish the Vata skin.

Suggestions for caring for Vata skin:

Vata skin types, for instance, will want to eat more warm, unctuous foods and favor the sweet, sour and salty tastes to balance the dry, rough, moving Vata dosha. Provide added nourishment to your skin by including organic milk, whole grains and green leafy vegetables in your diet. Drink lots of lukewarm water everyday for internal hydration. Eat plenty of sweet juicy fruits, they help cleanse the body from within and provide hydration as well. Include a little healthy fat such as Ghee (clarified butter) or olive oil in your diet for added lubrication. A warm oil self-massage is excellent for keeping skin lubricated. Use a gentle, all-natural moisturizer to keep facial skin hydrated. Provide added deep lipid support with facial oil. Get plenty of rest so your mind as well as your body have the opportunity to recharge. Use a gentle, moisture-balancing cleanser and splash your face with water several times when you cleanse.

Pitta Skin Care

The Pitta skin type needs both cooling and nurturing. Use skin care products that help enhance resistance to the sun. Avoid tanning treatments and therapies that expose your delicate, sensitive skin to steam for extended periods of time.

The ayurvedic herb Flame of Forest can help protect Pitta skin from photosensitivity. But like other ayurvedic herbs, it needs to be used in combination with other herbs for a balanced effect on the skin.

Suggestions for caring for Pitta skin:

If you have a Pitta skin type you will thrive on sweet, bitter and astringent tastes, as found in sweet, juicy fruits, rose petal preserve, and cooked greens. Avoid hot, spicy foods. Stay away from harsh, synthetic cosmetics; they can damage your sensitive skin and cause breakouts. Avoid hot spicy foods and an excess of deep-fried foods, they add heat to an already fiery constitution. Eat lots of sweet juicy fruits and have some rose petal jam in cool milk every day. The rose is considered cooling for mind, body and emotions. Use cooling oil, such as coconut oil, for the daily massage. Cook with cooling spices such as fennel and licorice. Take extra care to protect your skin when you go out in the sun. Use gentle, natural skin care products for cleansing and moisturizing. Provide added lipid support, such as facial skin oil, every other day.

Kapha Skin Care

"Kapha skin, because of its thickness and oiliness, is more prone to accumulate ama -- toxins under the skin. People with Kapha skin need to do detoxification on a regular basis, both internal detoxification and external detoxification to flush toxins from the skin," says Mishra.

Scrubbing the skin with a gentle exfoliating clay can help external cleansing. Kapha skin types may also need to take herbal formulations to cleanse the skin from within.

Suggestions for caring for Kapha skin:

The oiliness of Kapha type skin calls for a diet that is warmer, lighter, less oily, and free of heavy, hard to digest foods. Eating more bitter, astringent and pungent tastes help stimulate digestion and balance Kapha skin.Avoid too many sweet foods or deep-fried foods, they add to the oiliness in the skin. Exercise everyday to improve circulation. A daily warm oil massage can also help circulation. Eat plenty of organic vegetables and fruits to help cleanse the body from within. Cleanse your skin twice everyday; exfoliate with a mud-mask at least once a week. Cook with warming spices such as ginger and black pepper to stoke the digestive fire and inhibit the accumulation of ama inside the body.

Nourishment for skin:

Besides following the diet for your skin type, following foods are terrific skin-enhancers: leafy green vegetables; easily digested proteins such as paneer, milk, tofu, sunflower seeds; foods high in zinc such as quinoa; and beta-carotene-rich foods such as carrots and sweet cherries. Almonds and walnuts support the skin with their protein and lubricating fat content. Some skin-friendly spices include turmeric to nourish the first four layers of the skin; cumin to rid the body of ama; black pepper to cleanse the channels, and fennel to balance the transformational ability of the skin. All antioxidant-rich fruits and vegetables, such as pomegranate, apple, pear, and bitter, green leafy vegetables are also excellent for the skin. Eat only fresh, whole and organic foods. Stay away from packaged, canned, frozen, processed, and packaged foods.

Effect of stress on skin:

There are three types of stress, and all three impact the skin in different ways.

Mental stress starts a chain reaction that ends in a drying out the moisture in the skin. Thinning, dryness and the shrinking of the 'shrotasa' (microchannels) that carry nutritive fluid to the skin result in wrinkles and stress lines.
Emotional stress also affects the skin-just notice how anger or embarrassment can turn your face red. This shows the connection between emotions and the skin. If emotional stress becomes chronic, the result is acne, sun sensitivity, and other Pitta-based problems.
Physical stress: Exercising too much, working too much, or straining the body over a period of time causes physical stress. This causes the drying out of skin moisture and rough, aged skin.

To counteract mental stress, maintain a Vata-pacifying diet and daily routine. To bring emotional stress into balance, follow a Pitta-pacifying diet and routine. For physical stress, try to limit exercise or work to fifty percent of your physical stamina.

Treatment for skin disease:

The holistic management of health problems in ayurved comprises the three fold scientific approach towards diseases through diet, lifestyle and medicine

Ayurveda has stated that skin diseases occur primarily due to sluggish liver function, which leads Pitta and Kapha Dosha dysfunction when toxins build up and the liver is overwhelmed, then the impurities show up in break-outs and other skin problems.

Another vital factor that contributes to healthy appearance is the clean bowel: hence the need for regular and complete bowel evacuation. In order to achieve this, a mild laxative like Trifala and a light diet are advisable if one suffers from constipation.

Also, be sure to drink lots of water throughout the day to help flush out the impurities. In spring you can sip hot water to help melt the ama (digestive impurities) that have accumulated.

Scientifically treatments have been classified as shodhana & shamana.

Sodhan Chikitsa:

When doshas are vitated in large guantity & disease is chronic then shodhan chikitsa should apply first.
Acharyas have classified shodhana as Basti, Vaman, Virechana, Raktamokshana (Blood letting) & nasya.

Shaman Chikitsa:

When doshas are minimally imbalanced & the body is weak. Shaman Treatment is more important.
Shaman treatment can be classified as external & internal.
Administration of proper food, medicines by mouth is internal treatment & the application of medicated oil, lepo (ointment), etc is external treatment.

Ayurveda has said that for all skin diseases 'Khadira' is best as oral medicine and 'Aragwad' is best for local application.
Shirish, Lamajjak, Nagkesara and Lodhra are used for Hyperhydrosis and as an anti sweating agent.
Tejpatra, Ambu, Lodhra, Abhay {Khas} and Chandan are used as Daurghandya- har {to prevent body odour}
Charaka has mentioned a group of 10 drugs, which are promoters of complexion. They are known as the 'Varnya Dravya': Chandan (Sandalwood),Lal Nagkesar (Fragrant Poon), Padmaka(Himalayan Cherry),Ushir (Cuscus Grass) ,Madhuka(Liquorice) ,Manjishtha(Madder) ,Payasa(White Yam) ,Shita (White Scutch Grass), Lata (Black Scutch Grass) .

---

Shata Dhout Ghruta (100 times washed ghruta) :
Traditional Ayurvedic Skin Cream - It's completely natural and chemical free. Very useful for achiving radient and glowing skin.
Shatadhout Ghruta is preapred from organic ghee (made from cow milk) by washing it repeatedly 100 times using specific method prescribed in Ayurveda. This process transforms the ghee into a soft ,cooling, nourishing, silky cream.
Recommended use: It is an excellent Astringent, Moisturiser, Anti-wrinkle & Cleansing cream. Can be used as a daily moisturizer on the face (or whole body) or for facial massage. Also, has calming effect on reddish or burned skin, and on eczema and rosacea.
Try it for yourself !

Lodhradi Lepa
Specially prepared mixture of quality Ayurvedic herbs- 'Varnya Dravyas' mentioned by 'Charaka'. Specially useful for acne vulgaris. It also improves skin complexion.
Recommended use: Acne vulgaris, Black heads, Pimples , Skin blemishes.

Managing Stress

he term "stress" is difficult to define and may mean different things to different people in different circumstances. Stress is the uncomfortable gap between... how we would like our life to be and how it actually is .if this gap is persistent (or even worse: growing) - despite our efforts to reduce it then our mind feels uneasy, restless, disturbed, agitated, frustrated, tense, heavy or strained, we are said to be under stress.

We are living in the society in which worries, stress and strain are too rich. Worries about security, economic difficulties, and emotions are becoming more common and will effect on health and longevity of life. Body and mind, are subjected to more stress.

It is important to target the etiological factors while managing such cases. Therapies aim to bring the mental and physical conditions to normal state. Nevertheless, one must be careful not to create imbalance in other factors to avoid negative and adverse effects.

Causes of Stress --
The causative factors of stress are broadly divided into two types

1.External stressors: include adverse physical conditions (such as pain or hot or cold temperatures) or stressful psychological environments (such as poor working conditions or abusive relationships) , rules, regulations, "red tape," deadlines. It also includes major life events: death of a relative, lost job, promotion, insults, being ignored etc.

2.Internal stressors: can also be physical (infections) or psychological.
Lifestyle choices: caffeine, not enough sleep, overloaded schedule.
Negative Thinking: Pessimism, self-criticism, over-analyzing.
Mind traps: unrealistic expectations, taking things personally, exaggerating, rigid thinking.
Stressful personality traits: perfectionist, workaholic, pleaser.
Vata and Pitta constitution people.

Type of stress: Stressors can also be defined as short-term (acute) or long-term (chronic).
Acute Stress: Acute stress is the reaction to an immediate threat, commonly known as the fight or flight response. The threat can be any situation that is experienced, even subconsciously or falsely, as a danger. Common acute stressors include: noise, crowding, isolation, hunger, danger, infection, and imagining a threat or remembering a dangerous event.Under most circumstances, once the acute threat has passed, the response becomes inactivated and levels of stress hormones return to normal, a condition called the relaxation response. Chronic Stress: Frequently, however, modern life poses on-going stressful situations that are not short-lived and the urge to act (to fight or to flee) must be suppressed. Stress, then, becomes chronic. Common chronic stressors include: on-going highly pressured work, long-term relationship problems, loneliness, and persistent financial worries.

Common manifestations of stress -
Digestive system. It's common to have a stomachache or diarrhea during stress. This happens because stress hormones slow the release of stomach acid and the emptying of the stomach. The same hormones also stimulate the colon, which speeds the passage of its contents. Chronic stress can also lead to continuously high levels of cortisol. This hormone can increase appetite and cause weight gain.
Immune system. Chronic stress tends to dampen the immune system, making one more susceptible to colds and other infections.
Nervous system. If fight-or-flight response never shuts off, stress hormones produce persistent feelings of anxiety, helplessness and impending doom. Oversensitivity to stress has been linked with severe depression, possibly because depressed people have a harder time adapting to the negative effects of cortisol. The byproducts of cortisol act as sedatives, which contribute to the overall feeling of depression.
Cardiovascular system. High levels of cortisol can also raise your heart rate and increase your blood pressure and blood lipid (cholesterol and triglyceride) levels. These are risk factors for both heart attacks and strokes.
Other systems. Stress worsens many skin conditions — such as psoriasis, eczema, hives and acne — and can be a trigger for asthma attacks.

Ayurvedic Stress Management -
Providing understanding and guidelines for balance in body, mind and spirit, Ayurveda gives us Panchakarma Therapy as well as herbal healthcare to maintain the 'Tridoshas' in balance throughout our mind and body.

Pancha Karma therapies has been used for centuries in the Ayurvedic management of disease. Pancha Karma is the process which gets to the root cause of the problem and corrects the essential balance of 'Tridosha' in body.The therapies specific for Stress conditions are Shiroabhyanga, Shirodhara, Shirovasti, and Abhyanga.

The drug used in the treatment are mostly medhya drugs or medhya rasayanas which are believed to act as specific molecular nutrients for the brain affording a better mental health leading in turn to alleviation of the behavioral alteration and to cope up day to day stress. The herbs of adaptogenic properties are Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera), Brahmi (bacopa monniera), Shankh pushpi (Convolvulus pluricaulis), Vacha (Acorus calamus), Madhuyashti (Glycrrhiza glabra), Amrita(Tinospora cordifolia), Amalaki (Embelica officinalis) etc.

Ashwagandha ghrita, Brahmi ghrita in dosage of 5gm with hot milk and Amrut Bindu nasya is of great help.
Proprietary Ayurvedic medicine 'Prasham' has also got best results in stress reduction

Yoga - Progressive deep relaxation , i.e., Shavasana (Corpse posture) brings about a relaxed state of mind and practicing it daily is very useful in reducing stress. Daily practice of 'Yoganidra' is also useful for making your mind calm and tension free.

Thyroid desease

Metabolism : is a series of complex processes by which the human body converts food, water, and oxygen into tissue, energy, and waste products. It is a continuous process and goes on in every cell of the body. It comprises the breaking down of substances into simpler parts, and their shuffling and recombination into countless new substances that compose the body. For example, the carbohydrates are broken down by enzymes and acids and converted into pure sugar or glucose.
The constructive chemical

and physical process by which food materials are adapted for the use of the body is known as anabolism; and the destructive process by which energy is produced with the breaking down of tissues into waste products is called catabolism. The two processes together are called metabolism.

Basal Metabolic Rate: is the rate at which energy is consumed when a person is at complete rest. When a person is placed in a state of complete rest, the metabolic rate can be measured by measuring the amounts of oxygen and carbon dioxide exchanged during breathing under certain standard conditions. The BMR (Basal Metabolic Rate) is an index of a person's health.

Endocrine glands : Metabolism is controlled by the endocrine glands--a term applied to certain organs whose function is to secrete into the blood or lymph, a substance which plays an important role in relation to general chemical changes or to the activities of the other organs at a distance. The chief endocrine glands are the thyroid gland, adrenal glands, pituitary body, parathyroid glands, pancreas, ovaries, and the testes.

The thyroid gland is situated in the front of the neck and produces a hormone thyroxine which plays a very important role in regulating the general metabolism of the body. When it is defective, the conditions known as myxoedema (in adults) and cretinism (in children) result. An excess of its secretion is associated with a condition known as exophthalmic goitre or thyrotoxicosis or Grave's disease.

Disorders of the Thyroid Gland

1. Hyperthyroidism or thyrotoxicosis: in which the gland secretes excess of hormones. This condition is more common in women than in men whose age ranges from 30 to 50 years. Thyrotoxit individuals become tremulous, irritable, anxious and even hysterical. Because the metabolism is raised, they experience rapid heart rate and palpitation, rapid shallow respiration. Frequent bowel motions and diarrhoea, Flushing, heat intolerance, sweating, menstrual disturbance and sometimes bulging of the eyes. Such people suffer the paradoxical situation in which they feel fatigue and lack of energy and yet are compelled to move about, talk and do things. They are constantly fidgeting and the slightest remark may set off an inappropriately angry response.

2. Hypothyroidism : here the thyroid is underactive, producing too little thyroid hormone. This condition is far more common than hyperthyrodism and can be caused by iodine deficiency or thyroid failure brought on by pituitary dysfunction, inflammation, and scarring. By far the majority of cases are mild or borderline, unrecognized by the medical establishment. Yet these mild cases can be the cause of vague, but persistent, disorders such as fatigue, depression, loss of vitality, and overall hormonal imbalance. More severe problems from hypothyroid are the result of failure to develop properly, such as cretinism and juvenile myxodema. Long term hypothyroidism, such as adult myxodema, which is characterized by swelling of skin and subcutaneous tissues; dry, cold and slightly yellow skin, puffy face, loss of eyebrows, anginal pain, bradycardia, anorexia, constipation, and anemia.

Treatment

Diet and Other Regimen:
According to Charaka, goitre does not strike those who take milk in adequate quantities. In addition, old rice, barley, moong dal, Bengal gram, cucumber, sugar juice, and milk products are recommended for a goitre patient. Sour and heavy substances are contraindicated.

Herbs:
kanchanara - Bauhinia veriegata (purple mountain ebony) is specific for proper functioning of thyroid. Among the other herbs jatamansi and Brahmi guggulu and shilajita are also useful. gokshura, punarnava are useful herbs

Home Remedies:
A fine paste made of the vegetable jalakumbhi (Pistia straticies) applied over the affected part helps in reducing the swelling. The juice obtained from the jalakumbhi should be given in doses of II to 22 gm a day. It increases the amount of iodine, the lack of which, according to Allopathy, is one of the factors responsible for the disease.
Coconut oil offers much promise today to sufferers of hypothyroidism and slow metabolism. It is a known fact that the fatty acid chains in coconut oil, known as medium chain fatty acids (MCFAs) or medium chain triglycerides (MCTs), offer wonderful health benefits and are no where found more abundantly in nature outside coconut oil. For the hypothyroid sufferer the MCTs rev up the body's sluggish metabolism

Prepared Medicines:
Kanchanar Guggulu, Mahayogaraj guggulu Chandraprabha vati Mahatiktak Ghrita.

Yoga :
Long before medical science ever knew about the existence of thyroid glands, yogis had devised practices, which not only maintained healthy glands and metabolism, but also were part of a system of enlightenment.
Sarvangasna (shoulder stand) is the most suitable and effective asana for the thyroid gland. An enormous pressure is placed on the gland by this powerful posture. As the thyroid has one of the largest blood supplies of any body organ, this pressure has dramatic effects on its function, improving circulation and squeezing out stagnant secretions. After sarvangasana, we should perform matsyasana, and from sarvangasana we can practice halasana. All these practices positively result in better health of the thyroid gland. At the same time, all these practices should be avoided in severe thyroitoxicosis, physical debility or a goitre that is enlarged very much, where medical therapy is obviously the first line of treatment to be given. However, adding iodine once again to the diet is the first obvious step.
Other effective asanas include Surya Namskara, Pavamuktasana with emphasis on the head and neck exercises, yoga mudra, Suptavajrasana and all backward bending asanas.

Pranayama :
The most effective Pranayama for thyroid problems is Ujjayi. It acts on the throat area and its relaxing and stimulating effects are most probably due to stimulation of ancient reflex pathways within the throat area, which are controlled by the brainstem and hypothalamus. This practice also gives us direct access into the pranic and psychic net work, the substructure of metabolic activity. Nadi shodhana pranayama is useful in re-balancing metabolism.