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Wednesday, December 31, 2008

Gomukhasana

"Go" means cow. "Mukha" means face.The parted thighs in this asana resemble a cow's lips and one arm up and one down look like the cow's ears and so it is called Gomukhasana.

Technique :
  • Place the left heel on the left side of the anus. Bend the right leg in such a way that the right knee rests on the left knee and the sole of the right foot touches the lower part of the left thigh.Practice will enable you to bring the right heel to the left thigh.
  • Rotate your arm inwardly. the thumb will turn first toward the floor.then point toward the wall behind you, with the palm facing the celling. This movement will roll your right shoulder slightly up and forward, and round your upper back with a full exhalation, sweep the arm behind your torso and tuck the forearm in the hollow of your lower back, parallel to your waist,with the right elbow against the right side of your torso.
  • Raise the first and the second fingers of the left hand. Lower the first and the second fingers of the right hand.
  • If the fingers slip away, try again for two minutes to brig them to the position.
  • Breath slowly. Keep the trunk and the head in a straight line. Change the hands in turn.
  • A fat man will find it difficult to perform this asana . But constant practice will enable him to practice the asana comfortably.
  • Practice this asana four times in the first week. Later, gradually increase the frequency and practice it 6 times. Gradually increase the duration till the limit of 15 min is reached.
  • After some time return to the original position , Afterwards practice it by changing the position of the legs.by placing the right knee above the left knee.
Remember :
  • To start with, first place the right leg by the side of the buttock then left above the right.
  • One knee should remain just above the other knee.
Benefits of Gomukhasana :
  • This asana involves all the three bandhas, Jalandhara bandha, Uddiyana bandha and Moola bandha strongly, susumna nadi naturally gets an abundant flow of oxygen with the result that there is control over the sense organs.
  • This asana cures rheumatic arthritis of the lower legs and fissure and piles (dry).
  • Stretches the ankles, hips and thighs, shoulders armpits and triceps, and chest.
  • Tumour in the axilla is dissolved by this asana.
  • This asana cures constipation, dyspepsia, loss of appetite, backache and arm sprain.
  • Joints become flexible and the bones become strong.
  • This asana helps in observing celibacy and keeping sound health.
  • Moola bandha stops automatically in this asana and so it is very helpful for practicing Pranayama.
  • This asana is useful for longtime meditation.
  • This asana relieves the body of its excessive fat and it increases the vitality.
  • It is greatly beneficial to the persons suffering from insomnia.
  • This asana stimulates the endocrine glands.
Contraindications : People who have bleeding piles and serious neck or shoulder problems should not practice it.

Monday, December 22, 2008

Arjuna

Arjuna is the medicinal plant from the terminalia genus. It is more commonly used in the ayurvedic medicines for the treatment of heart problems. The bark of arjuna has been described as a cardiac tonic. The bark contains large quantities of calcium, small amounts of aluminum, magnesium and tannins an astringent used in preparing leather and manufacturing ink.

Latin name : Terminalia arjuna

Properties :
  • Rasa : kasaya
  • Guna : laghu, ruksha
  • virya : sita
  • Vipaka : katu
  • Karma : hridya, kaphhara, pithara, vrananasana
Preperations : Kshirpaka, juice, decoction, powder

Benefits of arjuna :
  • Arjuna is the best herb for cardiomyopathy like myocardial infarction, angina, coronary artery disease, heart failure, hypertension, hypercholesterolemia.
  • The bark of arjuna tree is a cardiac stimulant and has tonic effect. As a heart stimulant, either a decoction of the thick portion of the bark made with milk should be taken every morning on an empty stomach or its powder.
  • The powder of the arjuna bark is an effective sex stimulant, taken with milk regularly over a period of time.
  • It is useful in renal calculi, or stones. and in promoting flow of bile, and in the healing of wounds.
  • Diarrhoea or Dysentry : A decoction of the bark taken.
  • It is also effective in arresting secretion or bleeding.
  • It is helps to relieve fever.
  • The bark of arjuna is very useful in Asthma. Powder of the bark is made and stored in a well corked bottle. The patient suffering from asthma should keep fast on the day of the full moon. A dish of condensed milk and rice should be prepared and placed where the moonlight falls upon it the whole night 12 gm of the powder should be sprinkled over the kheer and take by the patient.
  • It is effective in curing various types of pain, ulcer, cirrhosis of liver
  • The juice of fresh leaves of arjuna can be used beneficially in earache.
  • It has best result in skin diseases. An ointment made by mixing the bark and honey applied over the affected area.
  • The decoction of the herb is used as an astringent for cleaning sores, ulcers, syphilitic sores.
  • It helps the bones to regain their strength after a fracture, powder of the bark with honey.
Herbal formulation :
  • Kakubhadi powder
  • Arjunarishta
  • Devdarvyarishta
  • Arjuna kshirpaka
  • Arvindasava
  • Arjuna ghrita
Kshirpaka formula :
The bark of Arjuna (or powder) 4 times the milk, and 16 times the water. The process involves the usual decoction process to boi the mixture till the amount of milk only remain.

Dosage of different formulation :
  • Powder : 3-6 gm two or three times a day with milk or water.
  • Extracted juice : 10-20 ml two or three times a day with sugar or honey or milk.
  • Decoction : 20-40 ml two times a day in the concentration of 1:2
  • Kshirpaka : 5-20 gm two times a day.

Friday, December 12, 2008

Mandukasana

While performing this asana, the body takes the shape of "Manduk"(frog). So this asana is called Mandukasana.

Technique :
  • Sit in Vajrasana. spread your knees as wide as possible.
  • Have the inner edges of the feet encircling the buttocks with the big toes of both the feet touching each other.
  • Rest the hands as shown in the figure. Keep the trunk straight.
  • Look straight and breath normally.
  • Remain in this position for 8 to 12 seconds. Perform this asana twice in the first week. Later, practice this asana four time.
  • While inhaling return to normal position and relax.
Benefits of Mandukasana :
  • This asana stimulates the digestive system. It is advised in the treatment of constipation, diabetes and digestive disorders.
  • This asana is effective in reducing the weight of the thighs, hips and the abdomen.
  • This posture helps in tonning the muscles of thigh region and increasing the flexibility of the legs. It assists in the cure of pain in the knees, ankles and back.
  • This asana increase sexual ability. It removes the defects of the reproductive system of women.
  • This asana strengthens the lower parts of the loins.
  • It is useful to cure asthma , insomnia and hysteria.
Contra indication :
people have cardiac problem, patient who have undergone abdominal surgery, severe back pain should avoid this asana.

Thursday, December 11, 2008

Wheezing

Wheezing is a high pitched whistling sound associated with labored breath. The underlying cause of wheezing is increased Kapha dosha in the stomach. From there it moves in to the lungs, trachea and bronchi. The increased kapha blocks the natural flow of air creating spasm in the bronchial tree and resulting wheezing or breathlessness.
Wheezing most commonly occures when a person is exhalling. It is sometimes accompanied by a mild sensation of tightness in the chest. Anxiety about not being able to breath easily can cause muscle tension that makes the wheezing worse.

Causes :
Expossure to allergens, fumes, ice cold drinks, very cold air, medication, strenuous exercise, weather changes, foreign objects trapped in the airway, respiratory illness like pneumonia, congestive heart failure, bronchitis, emphysema.

Symptoms :
Laborated breathing, whistling sound upon breathing, shortness of breath, tight & heavy feeling in the chest, Unable to more speak, coughs up bubbly pink or white phlegm.

Remedies for wheezing :
  • Drink Licorice ( yasti madhu ) tea . take 1 tsp of licorice root in one cup of water, add 5-10 drops of mahanarayana oil just before drinking . patient should take one sip every 5 -10 minutes for a day.
  • Take brown mustard oil 1 tsp with natural sugar 1 tsp, twice or thrice daily.
  • A mustard tea (1/4 tsp each ground mustard seed, pippali or black salt) with honey may be drunk two or three times daily.
  • Mix 1 tsp Cinnamon and 1/4 tsp Trikatu in to a cup of boiling water. Let it steep for 10 minutes and add 1tsp of honey before drinking , twice a daily.
  • 1/4 cup onion juice with 1tsp honey and 1/8 tsp black peeper, take twice a daily. It will very useful for wheezing.
  • This herbal formula is helpful for immediate relief : Sitopaladi choorna 1/2 tsp, Punarnava 1/2 tsp, pippali - pinch, Abhrak bhasma- pinch. mix with honey, a little bit at a time, for long time once a day.
  • You may also find 1/3 cup spinach juice with a pinch of pippali.
  • Putting 5 to 10 drops of warm ghee in each nostril will helpful.
  • Terminallia chebula (haritaki) has rejuvenative, laxative, expectorant effect.
  • Adhatoda vassica(vasa) manages allergic disorders and stimulates respiratory activity.
  • Acorus calamus (vacha) is very effective. It removes phlegmatic matters from the bronchial tabes, making them free for breath.
  • Ginger, Clove has expectorant properties.
  • Tachyspermum ammi (ajwain) is an expectorant . Its bark in powder form is taken in a decoction with butter milk.
Medicines :
Sitopaladi choorna, Lakshmi vilas rasa, Swasha kasa chintamani rasa, Kanakasava, Kumarisaar, Chyawanaprash, Agastya rasayana, Bharangee guda, Kapha kartari, Gojihvadi kwatha, Swashtone lehya etc.

Other remedies :
  • Yoga : Some yogic asanas are beneficial that Surya namaskar, shankhasana , sarvangasana, supta vajrasana, ushtrasana, matsyasana.
  • Supplements : magnesium may help to prevent bronchial spasms. It may be reduced by taking vita-c & B complex.
  • Diet : eliminate red meat, dairy products, ice cream, ice cold drinks, macrobiotic diet of vegetarian food.
  • Deep breathing or other stress reduction methods may help promote relaxation.
  • Aromatherapy : The essential oils for lavender, and rosemary can relieve congestion. Adding chamomile oil to a vaporizer can very helpful.

Tuesday, December 2, 2008

Sarvangasana

This is one of the most important asanas. Sarvangasana literally means "all parts pose".These inverted asanas work by reversing the effects of gravity on certain parts of the body. When this asana is practiced, all the parts of the body are exercised. So it is called Sarvangasana.

Technique :
  • Lie on your back with the body fully stretched, palms by your side facing down.
  • Slowly raise the legs together up 30, then 60, then 90 and then around 130 degree .so they are extended behind your head.
  • Stay in this position , breathing normally,for a few seconds.
  • Now, gradually exhale again and straighten your legs up to 90 degrees, until they attain a vertical position. Support the back on two sides with both the hands. Keep the elbows on the ground.Let the shoulders and the neck touch the ground. Keep the body steady.
  • Keep the legs raised straight up. Breath normally.Look at the toes of the feet.
  • Bend the legs towards the head. Relax the body and bring the legs back to the ground without jerking the spine.
  • In this asana, the weight of the entire body is borne by the shoulder. Concentrate your mind on the thyroid gland in the lower part of the throat.
  • This asana can be practiced twice a daily. Practice this asana for two minutes in the beginning gradually increasing the time to the limit of half an hour.
Benefits of Sarvangasana :
  • This asana diverts the flow of blood into the thyroid glands and promotes their health. It tones up the blood circulatory system, the respiratory system, the digestive system and the excretory system.
  • It awakens the Kundalini and stimulates gastric juices.
  • It eliminates the longtime diseases of the intestines like indigestion,constipation.
  • It tones up the functioning of the nose and the ears. It purifies blood.
  • It preserves the elasticity of the spinal column and prevents it from being slugging.
  • It eliminates the pain in the heels and other disorders of the feet.
  • It tones up the blood circulation and the digestive system.
  • It prevents nocturnal discharges effectively and helps in observing celibacy. It is a remedy for the diseases of the genitals and the anus.
  • Women can safely practice this asana. This asana eliminates the disorders of the overy.
  • Recommended for women after child birth and for those suffering from painfull menstruation, other female disorders and seminal weakness.
  • It is beneficial to those who suffer from anemia and leprosy.
  • It supplies abundant flow of blood to all the roots of the spinal column.
  • This is an ideal and strength giving asana. It energies and invigorates the body.
  • It eliminates kidney troubles and the diseases of the bladder.
Contraindications :
  • Don't try if you are suffering from organic disorders of the thyroid gland (hyper thyroidism) & chronic nasal catarrh.

Monday, December 1, 2008

Anemia

Anemia has affected million of people all over the world. Anemia is one of the common dietary diseases in which the blood is deficient in the body.Anemia is a decrease in your blood cell count, or a decreased hemoglobin content in the blood. Since red blood cells are the once responsible for carring oxygen to the cells via the hemoglobin a lower amount would mean low oxygen in all your body's tissue.
Anemia is found in any age group. Children, menstruating women, pregnant ladies all are prone to this disease.In ayurveda anemia is known as "Pandu roga ".

Causes :
Deficiency of Iron in the diet, hemorrhoids, deficiency of vitamins(especially vita-c), chronic disease like cancer, especially when the people under goes treatments by radiotherapy and chemotherapy, heavy menstruation, any defect in the bone marrow, the lack of hydrochloric acid.

Symptoms :
Weakness, fatigue, shortness of breath, rapid heartbeat, headache, confusions, restless leg syndrom, hairloss, pale skin, ringing in the ears, swelling of the mouth, numbness, tingling, memory loss, depression, discoloration of nails, insomnia, digestive problem, person feels cold often, white & blackheads on the face, pimples with pus, blocked hair follicles with pus on the skin.

Home remedies :
  • Eat a lot of dates, leafy greens & iron products.
  • Drink daily 2-3 cups of white cabbage juice.
  • Take vegetables like beets, potato, tomato, carrots, cabbage, grapes, apples, strawberries like fruits.
  • Peanut butter and candy bars have a lot of iron in them.
  • Dark green leafy vegetables are good source of absorbable iron, salmon and mackerel are good source of B12, and black eyed peas,beans and lentils for folate.
  • Cold water bath is the valuable method in curing anemia, two baths are recommended daily.
  • Take sunbaths are also beneficial as sunlight stimulates the production of red cells.
  • Lemon and honey is highly beneficial when taken during morning.
  • Massaging the body daily also helps to keep the blood level in the body high.
  • A liberal intake of vita-C is necessary for the proper absorption of iron . Amla provides natural vita-C.
  • Deep breathing and light exercise like walking also tones up body and blood level.
  • Various yoga asanas like sarvangasana, paschimotanasana, uttanpadasana, shavasana are beneficial and good.
Herbal remedies :
  • Afsanthin (worm wood) is iron rich content.
  • Ajmoda (celery) is also extremely rich source of dietry iron.
  • Methi (fenugreek) works as an effective blood tonic.
  • Sowa (dill) is taken to regulate the flow during the menstrual cycle. About 60 grams of sowa taken with a 1 tsp of parsley juice.
Ayurvedic medicines :
Punarnavasava, Ghritakumari, Lauhasava, Lauh bhasma, Dhatri lauh, Navayas lauh, arogyavardhini vati, Heamogaurd, syrup, Saptamrita lauh, Punarna mandoor, Nvajivan rasa, Shilajit, etc.

Thursday, November 27, 2008

Dhanurasana

Dhanusha means a bow. The hands are used like a bowstring to pull the head, trunk and legs up and the posture resembles a bent bow. Therefore this asana is called "Dhanurasana". It is a combination of Bhujangasana and Shalabhasana. This asana bends the spine backwards. This trio works contrary to Halasana and Paschimotanasana which bend the spine forward. Dhanurasana is also called Urdhva Chakrasana.

Technique :
  • Lie prone on the floor on the stomach, face downwards. Relax the muscles. Keep the arms resting alongside th ebody.
  • Bend the legs at the knees.
  • Raise the arms and hold the ankles with the hands. Raise the chest and the head. Fill the lungs with air.
  • straighten and stiffen the hands. Stiffen the legs also.The body now assumes the posture of a convex arch.
  • If you lift the legs up,you can raise the chest . Hold the breath.
  • Then exhale slowly.Attempt to keep the knees together.
  • Stay in this position as long as possible. It can be practiced 5-6 times.
  • In this asana, the abdomen supports the whole body. So practice this asana when the stomach is empty.
  • The body in Dhanurasana pose gets good exercise if it is lightly rocked from left to right and forward and backward.
Remember :
  • Do not try to bring the toes near ears forcefully if it is difficult.
  • Gradually increase the practice.
Benefits of Dhanurasana :
  • One who regularly practices Halasana, Mayurasana and Dhanurasana never becomes lazy. One is always active and energetic.
  • This asana gives a good massage to the abdomen so it cures prolonged constipation, dyspepsia,and other disorders of the stomach.
  • Increases energy and counteracts depression.
  • It cures spinal hump and rheumatism of the legs, the knees and the hands.
  • It reduces fat. It activates the intestines and increases the digestive power.
  • It nourishes all the abdominal organs by supplying blood to them. This asana is a blessing to those who suffer from gas and other intestinal disorders.
  • stretches the chest and lungs.
  • This asana is very beneficial specially to women because it alleviates the menstrual disorders and improves the reproductive system.
  • This asana rejuvenates the spine . It prevents bones from being untimely degenerated.
  • It activates the pancreas and insulin is produced in proper proportion.
Contraindications :
High and low blood pressure, Migraine, Insomnia, Serious lower back, Neck injury, Diarrhoea, Headache, Heart problem, Peptic ulcer, Hernia, Thyroid or endocrine gland disorders.

Thursday, November 20, 2008

uses of clove (laung)

The clove tree is a middle sized, evergreen tree. Clove is the dried unopened flower bud having many medicinal virtues. The flower buds are at first of a pale color and gradually becomes green, after which they develop in to a bright red, when they are ready for collection.

Botanical name : Syzgium aromaticum

Action : Anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, antifungal, antioxidant, great for dietary, topical and aromatic use, antihelmintic, expectorant, etc.

Uses of clove :
  • The aromatic oils of clove have a stimulant and irritant effect. Clove can increase blood circulation and raise a person's temperature slightly.
  • Clove can be used to promote the flow of saliva and gastric juices. cloves can help to relieve the stomach pain, nausea, vomiting.
  • Licking the powder of fried cloves mixed with honey is effective in controlling vomiting.
  • It can relieve the pain in chronic rheumatism, muscular cramps, toothache and lumbago.
  • Chewing a clove with a crystal of common salt eases expectoration, relieves in the throat and stops cough in pharyngitis, inflammation of the pharynx.
  • 3-5 drops of clove oil mixed with honey and clove of garlic helps alleviate the painful spasmodic cough in tuberculosis, asthma and bronchitis.
  • It is used to treat hiccough.
  • It's great to keep on hand for cleaning and numbing small cuts and scraps.
  • Cloves are of course an important cooking spice and clove oil can used to prevent food poisoning, as it is able to kill some food-borne bacteria.
  • Cholera : 4 grams of cloves are boiled in 3 liters of water until half the water has evaporates.
  • Asthma : 1 tsp of decoction prepared by boiling 6 cloves in 3o ml of water, taken with honey, thrice a daily.
  • Earache : clove sauted in a 1 tsp of sesame oil and 3 to 5 drops of this warm oil put in to ear.
  • Stye : clove stub rubbed in water and then applied over the stye.
  • Headache : A paste of clove and salt crystals in milk is common for it.
  • Its oil is used in the manufacture of perfumes, soaps, bath salts and as a flavoring agent in medicines.
Contraindication : Pregnant woman, people with kidney or liver problems, who have bleeding disorders, taking blood thinners should not use clove oil.

Monday, October 6, 2008

Bhujangasana

'Bhujanga' means a serpent. In the pose of Bhujangasana, one imitates a cobra reared up on its caudal support and the hood fully expanded. So this asana is called Bhujangasana.





Technique :
  • Lie on the floor with the face downwards. relax all the muscles of the body. Spread your hands on the floor under your shoulders. Hug the elbows back in to your body.
  • On an Inhalation,slowly raise the head and the trunk like the hood of a serpent. Bend the spine backwards.Stretch the feet backward so that the toes touch the ground.Firm but don't harden the buttocks.
  • This will stretch well the muscles of the back and the shoulders.There will be strain on the abdomen.
  • Lift through the top of the sternum but avoid pushing the front ribs forward which only hardens the lower back.
  • Hold the breath and hold this position for six to eight seconds. Then exhale and bring the head to its original position.When you first lie on the ground, keep the chin touching the chest.
  • Hold the breath till the head remains in the raised position.
Benefits of Bhujangasana :
  • The cobra pose is a great exercise for people with lower back aches. This asana decreases stiffness in the lower back, enlarges the chest, and stregthens the arms and shoulders.
  • This asana exerts pressure on the internal organs of the abdomen.It pushes waste matter to the anus and thus cures constipation and increases the heat in the body.
  • This asana helps relieve stress and fatigue.
  • It is therapeutics for Asthma.
  • It strengthens the ovary and the uterus.It removes the disorders related to menstruation.
  • This asana stimulates blood circulation in the uterus with the resullt that delivery becomes natural and easy.
  • Affects the adrenal glands, sending them a richer supply of blood.
  • Traditional texts say that Bhujangasana increases body heat, destroys disease, and awakens Kundalini.
Contraindications :
  • Arthritis in spine or wrist
  • Hernia
  • Carpal tunnel syndrom
  • Pregnancy
  • Internal organ surgery

Friday, September 26, 2008

Acidity

In Acidity, there is a movement of gastric juices from the stomach in to the lower esophagus. This condition mainly arises when acidic content in stomach (Hydrochloric acid ) move upward in to esophagus and making it dysfunction. This acid further secretes various digestive enzymes like pepsin that break the food for easy digestion. In case of excess secretion it gives a condition known as Acidity.

Causes :
  • Refined and fiber less food.
  • Stress.
  • Smoking & Excess of alcohol tends to weaken the nervous system, as a result the mucus membrane and the stomach lining stops functioning properly.
  • High intakes of spicy food.
  • Eating speedily, very fast devoid for proper chewing.
  • Inappropriate sleep.
  • over weight people may bear because of unnecessary pressure on their digestive system.
  • Pregnancy.
Symptoms :
  • Restlessness with continuous cramps in the stomach.
  • Sour belches and passing off wind.
  • Other symptoms of acidity are nausea and vomiting.
  • respiratory problems and coughing.
  • sometimes bellyache is also felt.
Home remedies for Acidity :
  • Fresh mint juice taken every day or fresh chopped mint leaves and tulsi leaves boiled in acup of water and sip slowly after meals.
  • Take tiny piece of jaggery every hour. just keep it in the mouth and slowly suck it.
  • A glass of plain milk gives good relief.
  • To 1.5 liters of water add 1 tsp shah jeera seeds. Bring to a boil and simmer for 15 minutes sip while warm . 2-3 times a day for 4-5 days.
  • Drink tender coconut water 3-4 times a day.
  • Cumin seeds boiled in a glass of water can be taken.
  • Powder one clove and one cardamom, Use the powder as a mouth freshener after every meal.
  • Keep small piece of Terminalia chebula in your mouth and chew it after every meal.
  • Take equal part of Ginger and Coriander to get relief from acidity.
  • Drink daily a 1 tsp juice of chebulic myroblan mixed with 1 tsp of amala juice.
  • Drink 1-2 glasses of water early morning to keep yourself healthy.
  • Eat watermelon, banana, or cucumber each hour.
  • Taking 2 tsp of Isabgol in milk after every meal.
Do's and don't :
  • Avoid spicy food rich in oils and fats. do not eat fried, fatty, junk food and excessive chocolates.
  • Eat fruit and vegetables rich in fibers.
  • Avoid strong drinks as tea, coffee, pickles, curds, vinegars.
  • Avoid excessive smoking and alcohol.
  • Take your dinner 2-3 hours before sleeping.
  • follow yoga or some exercise to reduce stress.

Thursday, September 25, 2008

Padmasana

Padmasana is one of the basic yoga posture. This is probably the most well known pose routinely used by Buddha and is a very popular meditation pose. ' Padma' means lotus. Padmasana acquires its name because when performed this resembles a lotus. This is also known as Kamlasana. This is suited for meditation and for reciting 'mantras '. This is beneficial to both men and women.
Padmasana requires open hips and consistent practice .It is very good for alignment of chakras.Traditional text say that padmasana destroys all disease and awakens Kundlini.

Technique :
  • Sit on the ground. Spread the legs forward and place the right foot on the left thigh and left foot on the right thigh.
  • Some persons like to place first the left foot on the right thigh and then to put the right foot on the left thigh.Either process is right.
  • Let the left hand rest on the left knee and the right hand on the right knee.
  • Let the tips of the thumbs of both the hands touch the tips of the index fingers.
  • Keep the head and the spinal column erect. Keep your eyes close or open.
  • Those who can place only one leg on the thigh should practice this asana daily with zeal. They will be able to perform this asana easily after some practice.
  • Stay in the final position for one or two minutes in the initial stage. Later, increase the time gradually.
  • While returning to the original position. first stretch out your left leg.
  • Then stretch out your right leg also.
Benefits of Padmasana :
  • This asana is useful for Japa, Prana, Yama, Dharana (concentration), Dhyana (meditation) and Samadhi (Self- realisation).
  • It has a clambing effect on the mind and the nerves.
  • This asana stimulates the endocrine glands.
  • Helps keep the joints in flexible condition.
  • This asana is useful to cure diseases like asthma, insomnia and hysteria. It is greatly beneficial to the persons suffering from insomnia.
  • It prevents abdominal diseases and female disorders connected with the reproductive organs.
  • This asana relieves the body of its excessive fat and it increases the vitality. It helps to preserve vital fluids in the body.
Contraindication :
  • People having chronic knee pain should not pactice it.
  • Those getting cramps in calf muscle should practice it carefully.
Note :
Do not fold leg forcefully. It takes few days for the legs to bend smoothly without pain and discomfort. For the first few days practice folding only one leg. This half posture is also called " Ardha Padmasana".

Vajrasana

Vajrasana makes the body exceptionally strong and healthy. Vajra means thunderbolt in Sanskrit.It is easy to remain motionless in this posture, hence it is named as Vajrasana. Do the movement slowly and in a relaxed manner. Inhale and exhale slowly. While drawing the abdominal region inwards and expanding the chest, focus the attention on these body parts.

Technique :
  • Sit with legs extended together hands by the side of the body, palm resting on the ground, fingers of the hands together ponting forwards.
  • Bend the legs at the knees. Place the heels at the sides of the anus in such a way that the thighs rest on the legs and the buttocks rest on the heels.
  • Support the whole body on the knees and the ankles. Breathe normally while performing this asana.
  • Hands resting on the respective thighs, Sit erect, gaze in front close the eyes, the neck and the head in a straight line.
  • The knees and the ankles will perhaps ache in the beginning but this ache or pain will disappear by itself.
  • This asana is very simple posture and one can hold this posture with ease for a longer time.
  • While returning to the original position, bend little towards right side take out your left leg and extend it.
  • Similarly extend your right leg and return to the original position.
Remember :
  • Do not sit on the heels.
  • While sitting on the bent feet, the heels should remain out and toes inside. Soles up ward.
Benefits of Vajrasana :
  • The regular practice of this Vajrasana increases the secretion from the glands. It also increases the white blood corpuscles produced in the spleen, the tonsils, the marrow and in other part of the body.
  • The mind also gets stabilized in this asana. It is preferred for meditation and concentration.
  • Vajrasana energies Kandasthana situated about thirty cms away from the centre of 72000 nadis.
  • This asana helps digestion and eliminates gas-trouble.
  • One who practices this asana regularly does not suffer from fever, constipation, indigestion and other minor or major ailments.
  • The constant and systemic practice of this asna alleviates the pain of the knees, the legs, the feet and the thighs.
  • This asana is also found to be good for Pranayama.
Notes : This is the only asana, which, if practiced immediately after meals, stimulates digestion.

Contraindication :
  • The people having piles should not practice it.
  • knee injuries or problems like ligaments tears.
  • Ankle problems.

Wednesday, September 24, 2008

Psoriasis

Psoriasis is a chronic skin disease characterized by erupption of superficial papules and larger patches with chronic inflammation, thick, red, silver scaled patches usually on the elbow, knees, scalp, and trunk. These areas can be itchy and painful. It usually appears in the age of 15-30 yrs.It is rarely found in infants and elderly people.
It is not a contagious or an infectious disease but a life style induced disease. Psoriasis patient suffer from systemic disorders in which the Immune system sends faulty signals that speed up the growth cycle process of the skin.

Causes :
Heredity factor, Abnormality in metabolism of amino acid and proteins, Various infection, Injury of the skin, Seasonal changes, Use of certain medicines, Anxiety, Stress.

Types of Psoriasis :
  • Plague psoriasis : Patches of raised, reddish skin covered by silvery white scale.
  • Gattate psoriasis : Small red spots appears on the skin.
  • Pustular psoriasis : White pustules surrounded by red skin appears on the skin.
  • Inverse psoriasis : Smooth, red lesions are formed in the folds of the skin.
  • Erythrodermic psoriasis : Itching, pain and redness of the skin.
Home Remedies for Psoriasis :
  • Bitter gourd is valuable. Take a cup of fresh juice of this vegetable mixed with a 1 tsp of lime juice on an empty stomach daily for 4-6 months.
  • Cabbage leaves can be used in the form of compresses. They can be applied on the affected area after removing the thick veins and washin them thoroughly.
  • Take cod liver oil, linseed oil, Vita-E, and Zinc to fasten the healing process.
  • Take small amount of almond powder and boil it thoroughly in water. Use for external application and keep it over night and wash it next day with water.
  • Boil some soap nut ( shikakai) in water and apply an affected part.
  • Application of Aloe vera gel and garlic oil on the affected area is also beneficial.
  • Epsom Salts- adda handfulof these healing salts to your bath. They will keep swellig down.
  • The Use of mud packs is also beneficial. They absorb and remove the toxins from affected area.
  • Lecithin is also considered as aremarkable remedy for the psoriasis.
  • Cover a fresh thin banana leaf on the affected part.
  • Sesame seeds are also used for the treatment pof verious skin disease. Take 15-20 sesame seeds and soak in a glass of water . Keep it overnight and drink in empty stomach early morning.
  • Application of Cashew nut oil on the affected area at night after a thoroughly wash of the face is highly effective.
  • Sunlight is best and natural remedies.
  • Use of curd in the form of buttermilk has proved useful in liberal quantities.
  • Flowers of the Jasmine are crushed, made in to a paste and applied on the inflammed part.
Medicines for Psoriasis :
  • Khadirarishta : 2tsp thrice a daily, before food.
  • Panch tikta kashaya : 2 tsp twice a daily, before food.
  • Maha manjisthadi kashaya : 2 tsp twice a daiy, before food.
  • Psoria oil +Coconut oil : Externally apply.
  • Septiline cap : thrice a daily.
  • Arogyaverdhini tab : thrice a daily.
  • Yashad neem : 2 cap twice a daily, before food.
  • Allerin cap : twice a daily.
  • Skin tripada syrup : 1 tsp twice a daily.
  • Rudhirex syrup : 1 tsp twice a daily.
  • Triphala guggulu : 2 tab thrice a daily.
Panchkarma chikitsa :
  • Vamana (taking medicines that induce vomiting )
  • Virechana (taking medicines that act as a purgatives )
  • Takra dhara (pouring medicated buttermilk on the head and the body )
  • Vasthi karma (medicated enemas )
Do's and Dont's :
  • Patient should take bath in Sea water.
  • Include green vegetables, cucumber, carrot, fruits as they are good for psorisis.
  • reduce your intake of tea, coffee, fats, animal proteins and sugars.
  • do not eat hot, spicy and purgentfoods.
  • Apply a moisturizer to lubricate and soften scaly patches of skin.
  • Try deep breathing and relaxation exercise to reduce stress.
  • Avoid harsh skin products and lotions that contains alcohol.
  • Keep your towel, clothes separate and clean.

Wednesday, September 17, 2008

Halasana

Halasana is so named because the posture assumed in doing this asana resembles a plough, for which Hala is the Sanskrit word.

Technique :
  • Lie flat on the back with the arms stretched by the side of the body, palms flat on the ground.
  • Place the legs together and keep them straight, inhale and raise the legs up slowly.Inhaling and the raising of the legs up should be simultaneously, stop at 30 angle.
  • After few seconds raise your legs further up to 60 angle.Do not bend the knees, and slowly bring the legs at 90 angle.
  • Do not raise the arms, do not bend the back. When you are in Sarvangasana posture, exhale and at the same time begin lowering the legs over the head till the toes touch the ground. Keep the knees together and straight, thighs and the legs straight.
  • Breath normally till the asana is completed. Do not breath through the mouth. Keep the eyes closed or open. See that the legs remaign straight. place the palms on the head making finger lock.
  • Let the chin touch the throat. Hold this position for eight to ten seconds.
  • While returning back to the original position first release the finger lock. strech the hands straight and place them on the ground by the side of the body.
  • Lower the waist and raise the legs from the ground and without giving them, a jerk bring them at 90 angle.
  • Slowly come back to the original position.
Benefits of Halasana :
  1. Halasana nourises the blood vessels of the spinal cord, the muscle of the back, vertebrae and the nerves which pass by both the sides of vertabrae.
  2. It cures constipation, gastric trouble and reduces irregular contraction and explation of the liver and the spleen.
  3. The practice of this asana is also useful in certain types of diabetes.
  4. It tones up sexual ability.
  5. As this asana stimulates blood circulation, the face becomes bright and youthful.
  6. This asana makes the spine flexible and elastic. a habitual aspirant of Halasana becomes very agile, alert and vigorous.
  7. It eliminates muscular rheumatism, lumbar pain, sprain and neuritis.
  8. Maximum benefits of this asana can be derived when Bhujangasana is practiced immediately after Halasana.
  9. It benefits the thyroid gland, liver, spleen, stretches and pulls the vertebrae.
  10. It helps releive the symptoms of menopause.
  11. This asana flushes mucous from the lungs.
Contraidication :
  • Neck and back problems
  • High blood pressure
  • Pregnancy
  • Diarrhoea
  • Asthma
  • Heavy menstruation
  • Eye & Ear infection
  • If you have not flexed up with other exercises before, do not attempt right away the final stages of this posture unless you have a naturally very flexible spine. Otherwise, do not try to touch the floor with the toes for a few days. Do not force the toes any lower than the spine will allow comfortably. You will injure the right muscle and the pain may last a few weeks.

Thursday, September 11, 2008

Piper Nigrum


Name : Black pepper
Family : Piperaece
Active Compounds : Black pepper's aromatic, slightly musty odor comes from the volatile oils found largely in the flesh and skin. Its pungent bite comes from the alkaloids-piperine and resins found mostly in the seeds. The oils go in to perfumes and flavoring.

Medicinal characteristic :
Rasa : Katu
Guna : Laghu, tikshna
Virya : Ushna
Vipaka : Katu

Uses of Piper nigrum :
  • Piper nigrum increase the flow of Saliva,stimulates appetite, tones the colon muscles and It is a general digestive tonic.
  • As a gargle It is useful in paralysis of the tongue.
  • Useful in atonic dyspepsia and turbid condition of the stomach. It will correct nausea.
  • It has been used in Vertigo, paralytic and arthritic disorders.
  • Also useful in diarrhoea, cholera, and very usefulto wash for a tinea capititis. it is very good for some skin diseases.
  • As a local application for relaxed sore throat.
  • It can be used to help in the treatment of pain relife, rheumatism, flu, colds, exhaustion, nerve tonic, fever.
  • It is very good for toothache - make a decoction of pepper with 1/8 tsp of black pepper with 1/2 cup boiling water. rinse the mouthwith small sips with warm decoction. repeat as needed.
  • Piper nigrum is very good drug for Asthma .

Tuesday, August 26, 2008

Pashchimottanasana


Pashchimottanasana - The seated forward bending.It is compound word in sanskrit. Pashchim means "West" direction as well as back. Uttana means "Stretch". By practicing this asana , stretch and strengthen the spine. This asana is very difficult to practicits known as "Ugrasana" . Ugra means " Shiva". Lord Shiva is believed to be the god of annihilation.

Technique :
  • Sit on the floor with the legs stretched straight in front. stretch both the arms out in front and while inhalling raise the arms up  all the way above the shoulders.
  • bend the trunk forward and hold the feet with the thumbs and the first and middle fingers. Exhale, and bend the trunk lower so that the head rests on the knees.
  • If your hands don't reach the toes, you may use a strap looped around the soles of the feet to keep the awareness on the Spine. while using a strap keep the elbows straight. Try to keep the knees straight.
  • Draw the abdomen in while bending lower. This will make the  bending of the trunk easy. While bending bring the head between the arms. The aspirants having flexible spine can touch the knees with the head at the first attempt. 
  • Fat persons will find some difficulty in practicing this asana. Person having a weak spine will    take a fortnight or a month to perfection in this asana. Remain in this asana for five seconds.
  • To come out of the Asana ,stretch the arms out and with an inhalation, begin to straighten the spine up, raising the arms over head . Finally, release the arms while exhaling and rest for couple of breaths.
  • Begin with 30 seconds and gradually increase it to 10 minute.
Advantages : 
  • Pashchimottanasana is very famous of all asana. Its effect is that the life force flows through the sushumna nadi.
  • This asana tones liver, spleen, pancreas, adrenal glands and kidneys.
  • by practicing this asana we can reduce the excessive fat around the abdomen.
  • This asana is properly performed, the spine and each muscle in the back is stretched and suppleness is restored.
  • It tones up the intestines, improves digestion,cures constipation, indigestion, liver disorders, dyspepsia, hiccough, gastritis and cures loss of appetite.
  • The practice of this asana helps the joints to regain elasticity and rejuvenates the entire spine.
  • It has beneficial effect on male prostate and female uterus and eggs. Impotence and sexual weakness are consequently rapidly eliminated.
  •  Eyes gain a specific magnetism effect.
  • This asana is recommended for diabetes and heamorrhoids.
  • Unpleasant body odors are gradually disappearing through the practice of this asana. Dermatological disorders  are cured.
  • Mind becomes stable and calm, the breath calm down.
Contraindication
        This asana is contraindicated for pregnant woman, in case of slipped disc, sciatica, diarrhoea and asthma.

Wednesday, August 20, 2008

Amala (Amalaki)

Latin name : Embalica Officinalis
Family : Euphorbiaceae.

A moderate sized deciduous tree, branchlets and rachis villose. Bark light grey, wood red and hard.Leaves small, pinnate, stipules minute.Flower small, monoecious in axillary fascicles. Ovary 3-celled, ovules 2 in each cell. Fruit a depressed globose, fleshy berry 1.4-3.0 cm dia.

Medicinal Characteristics :
Rasa: sour, sweet, astringent, pungent and bitter
Guna : light and dry
Virya : cold
Vipaka : sweet

Action :
  • Amala alleviates all the doshas, confers longevity and strength, aphrodisiac, and is useful in fever, urinary diseases, oedema, burning sensation, vomitting, excessive thirst, haemoptysis, fatigue, eye disorders and distension of abdomen.
  • It is best among the sour fruits.
  • Unripe fruits are used as collyrium in certain diseases.
  • the seeds are valuable in certain menstrual disorders.
  • A medicated ghee prepared from amala is excellent as a tonic and rejuvenative and is useful in abdominal tumors of the pitta variety.
  • It controls the toxin level of the body, reduces plaque formation, builds up the blood cells.
  • It fights tuberculosis, chronic coughing and allergic & childhood asthma.
  • It prevents hair falling, works as anti inflammatory, effectively suppress swelling,.
  • Amala improves our immune system.
  • Amala fruits provide a radiant glow on the skin and delays the onset of wrinkles, very effective in eczema.
Uses of Amala :
  • Hyper acidity : 1 tsp Amala powder with milk, twice daily
  • Diabetes : 1 tsp Amala juice with 1 tsp jamboo beej powder, 1 cup bitter gourd juice, early morning.
  • Anxiety : 1tsp amala powder could be soaked in one cup of water over night & add 1/2 tsp peppare powder, 1 tsplime juice, 1 tsp ginger juice.
  • Hair tonic : (1) Amla powder paste make with curd water & bessan. apply on the head. (2) Amla fruit piece boil in coconut oil till the solid matter becomes charred excellent in early graying and preventing hair falling.
  • Cataract : (1)Triphala : eye wash is very effective. (2) Amala Rasayana : 1 tsp , twice daily.(3) Chyawanprash : 2 tsp , twice daily.
  • Piles (bleeding) : juice of Amala with 250 mg guduchi satva, twice daily.
  • UTI : Amala juice ofwith500 mg of turmeric powder , twice daily.
  • Jaundice : Amala juice with 1 tsp of honey.

Sunday, August 10, 2008

Shilpa Shetty's Quick Fix Yoga Program

Many times we do not get time to do exercise but here is the technique/workout for complete body in 15 minutes only. Lets do these exercises with Shilpa Shetty.




Following Asanas/Yogas are covered in this video:


Utthanpadasana (Raised Legs Pose) - Asanas on Back

Breathing Pattern:
  • Inhale when you raise the leg.
  • Hold the posture and the breath.
  • Exhale when you lower the leg.
Benefits:
  • Tones up the thigh muscle and make them taut.
  • Strengthens the digestive system, hip, pelvic, and the perineal muscles.
  • Helps correct prolapse.
  • Knocks out unnecessary fat from the waist zone.
  • Moderates the hip elasticity among those women who has just delivered a baby.
  • Beneficial for players helping them in maintaining their leg balance.
Contraindications:
  • High blood pressure.
  • Hernia.
  • Peptic ulcer.
  • Abdominal surgery 2nd or 3rd trimester of pregnancy.
  • Menstruation.
Dhanurasana - Asanas on stomach

Benefits :
  • This asana is very good for ladies.
  • It cures constipation and removes excess fat.
  • It acts as a cure for dyspepsia, rheumatism and gastro intestinal disorders.
  • It improves digestion and appetite.
  • Strengthens kidneys, back muscles, thigh muscles.
Contraindications:
  • You have back problems, hernia or cervical spondylosis.
Chakrasana Standing (lateral bending) - Standing Asanas

Benefits :
  • Good for Spine
  • Great for physical fitness
  • Reduce fat from waist
Veerabhadrasana - Standing Asanas

Benefits :
  • Strengthens and stretches the legs and ankles.
  • Improve sluggish circulation in the lower limbs, and improve venous return.
  • Digestion is improved and the pose helps to relive constipation.
Contraindications:
  • Hypertension
  • Neck Problems
Padahastasana - Standing Asanas

Benefits :
  • Stretches the hamstrings on the back of the legs
  • Stretches and lengthens the entire spine
  • Massages the internal organs, especially the digestive organs
  • Relieves digestive problems such as constipation
  • Relieves problems with sciatica
  • Invigorates the nervous system
  • Increases the supply of blood to the brain
  • Removes flesh from the abdomen
Vakrasana - Sitting Asanas

Benefits :
  • This asana strengthens the spine and activates the nerves.
  • The mouth of the Sushumna opens and Kundalini Shakti is sublimated.
  • Puma Vakrasana bestows all the benefits gained by performing Ardha Vakrasana.
  • This is asana invigorates the muscles of the loins.
KapalBhati - Pranayam

Benefits :
  • Kapalabhati cleanses the lungs and entire respiratory system.
  • The blood is purified and body gets an increased supply of oxygen to all cells.
  • Digestion is improved.
  • Abdominal muscles are strengthened.
  • Prepare the mind for meditation.
  • Energize the mind for mental work.
Contraindications:
  • Suffering from heart disease
  • High blood pressure
  • Hernia
  • Should never be practiced when an asthmatic attack is in progress.
  • If pain or dizziness is experienced ,it is preferable to stop the practice till the sensation has passed.
Om Chanting
  • The 'O…' vibrates through the whole bone structure of the thoracic cage, which proves that the vibration reaches down to the air in the lungs, and that the delicate membrane of the alveoli in contact with the air must also vibrate, stimulating the pulmonary cells and allowing a better exchange of gases.
  • This vibration also produces very significant effects upon the endocrine glands. The sounding of vocable during exhalation automatically massages the organs by vibrations.
  • These vibrations reach the deep-lying tissues and nerve cells and the circulation of blood increases in the tissue organs involved. The ductless glands, which pour hormones directly into the blood and lymph, are stimulated (the pituitary, pineal, thyroid, thymus, supra-renal and gonads).
  • These vibrations also benefit the vagus nerve.
  • The organs in the thoracic cage and the abdomen are particularly subject to the effect of the vibro-massage, which the sound 'O…' induces.
  • Electro-magnetic waves are produced by the vibrations which multiply all through the body, increasing energy.
  • Concentration is improved and the entire body relaxes under the influence of this internal vibro-massage, which frees inhibition and reduces depression and inferiority complexes, unifying or integrating the whole psyche.

Tuesday, July 29, 2008

Ginger

Ginger is probably one of the world's favourite medicines and cooking ingredients. Ginger root has been used in Ayurveda for centuries and its fresh pungent flavour makes it an essential spice for Indian and Asian cuisine.Ginger is a creeping perennial on a thick tuberous rhizome. In the first year, a green, erect, reed-like stem about 60 cm high grows from this rhizome. The plant has narrow, lanceolate to linear-lanceolate leaves 15 to 30 cm long, which die off each year. The flower scape grows directly from the root and terminates in a long, curved spike. A white or yellow flower grows from each spike.


Action: Aromatic, carminative, stimulant to the gastro- intestinal tract, diaphoretic, expectorant, antiemetic, and stomachic, also sialagogue and digestive; Externally, a local stimulant and rubefacient.



Use of Ginger:
  • Painful joints : Mix 3 drops essential oil of ginger root and 1 teaspoon of almond oil. Rub on inflamed or painful joints and cover with a dry cloth to hold in the heat.
  • Indigestion and low appetite: (1) Mix ginger with ghee or hot water. (2) Mix together equal parts of ginger juice, lemon juice and rock salt. Mix well and take it before meals.
  • Headache: Make a ginger paste by mixing dry ginger powder with a little water or aloe gel . Apply and rub this paste to the forehead before going to sleep
  • Bronchitis: Take a mixture of half a teaspoon each of powdered ginger, pepper and cloves three times daily with honey or as an infusion or tea.
  • Asthma : A teaspoon of fresh ginger juice mixed in a cup of fenugreek tea made with 1 tablespoon of fenugreek seeds and honey to taste acts as an excellent expectorant in cases of asthma.
  • Diarrhea: Rub ginger juice on navel
  • Sore throats, hoarseness, and laryngitis: Chew a piece of fresh ginger. This produces a copious flow of saliva
  • Diabetes: Take ginger juice with rock candy twice daily.
  • Sore throats, hoarseness, and laryngitis: Chew a piece of fresh ginger. This produces a copious flow of saliva.
  • Nausea, and vomiting: Take a combination of ginger juice and onion juice
  • Painful bowels or stomach: Make an infusion of dry ginger. Mix it with 1-2 tbs. castor oil.
  • Tooth or face aches: Make a paste of ginger powder and aloe gel or water. Apply the paste to the face.

Tuesday, July 22, 2008

Gout

Gout is one of the forms of arthritis or joint inflammation. Usually one or two joints are affected at a time. Commonly joints of feet and ankles are inflamed in gout. The commonest site is the ball of the big toe. The first attack of gout subsides in a week or so without treatment. There may be a long gap of many months or years between attacks. As time passes the attacks become more frequent and more severe involving many joints. When the frequency of attacks increases progressive joint damage sets in. This is known as chronic gout. This leads to disability and crippling. Gout is very rare in women but usually affects men. In women it is seen after menopause.

Cause Of Gout:
Presence of uric acid crystals in joints causes inflammation of joints.Uric acid is formed during metabolism of food and building up of body tissues. When the level of uric acid increases in blood than normal levels, the uric acid forms microscopic crystals in joints. These crystals lead to inflammation of joints.

According to ayurveda causes of vitiation of blood:
  • Indigestion
  • Excessive consumption of salty, sour, hot, spicy, oily foods
  • Consumption of Fish
  • Consuming horse gram, urad dal
  • Alcohol
  • Consuming opposite foods
  • Lack of sleep
  • Obesity
  • Sedentary work
Reasons For Increased Uric Acid Level In Blood:
  • Hereditary
  • Obesity
  • High alcohol intake
  • High intake of food like liver, kidneys, sweetbreads, tongue, red meat, shellfish, fish peas, lentils and beans. These foods contain purines
  • Few drugs used to treat high blood pressure
Symptoms:
  • Inflammation
  • Swelling
  • Tenderness in the affected joint
  • Touching or moving the joint is extremely painful
  • Fever and stress
  • Severe pain in muscle joints
  • Inability to bend fingers, toes, or other small joints
  • Inflammation of joint tissues
  • Burning sensatio
  • Warmth in the joint

Long Term effects of gout gone untreated include one or more of the following conditions:

  • Rheumatoid Arthritus and/or Osteoarthritis
  • Inflammation of the spine (Anklosing Spondylitis) that causes the joints of the spine to grow together
  • Fibromyalgia (Wide spread pain of muscles and attachments to the bones that occurs most often in women)
  • Lupus (inflammation and damage of joints and connective tissues throughout the body)
  • Scleroderma (disease of the connective tissue that causes thickness of skin)
Ayurveda Tips To Control Gout:
  • Consume wheat, green gram, raisins, ginger, milk
  • Avoid horse raiding, or other sports which involves lot of joint movements
  • Avoid afternoon sleep, roaming in hot sun
  • Do not consume alcohol, fish, urad dal, horse gram, curds, radish
How to Eat: When it is time to eat one should make sure to eat 4-5 smaller meals in a day rather than 2-3 larger meals in a day. This will help the body digest more foods more thoroughly, and the body will take in more of the necessary nutrients.

Exerize Regularly: A person with gout should be sure to exercise for at least 30 minutes a day. Stretching exercizes can loosen up the muscles, and help reduce stress on the body. Also, massaging of the affected joints can help as well. When possible, one should also partake in a moderate aerobic activity to help prevent further attack of gout.

Ginger: Ginger produces prostoglandins and leukrotrienes. These substances help eliminate pain and inflammation of the muscles. Studies have proven that the use of ginger has worked to relieve arthritic pain, and has done so with no side affects. People have taken ginger for arthritic pain and inflammation for up to two years.

Ashwagandha: This medicine will help in reducing muscle inflammation. When the person affected with gout follows the above diet recommendations and partakes in one or more of the ayurvedic remedies, that person is most likely to be cured. Also, one will be able to fight against the possibility of a future attack.

Cinnamomum Camphora: expectorant, skin stimulating, diaphoretic, decongesting, antispasmodic, analgesic, antiseptic.

Vetiveria Zizanoides: toning, cooling, stomachic, stimulating, antispasmodic, diuretic, emmenagogue.

Tips To Reduce Blood Uric Acid Level:
  • Avoiding consumption of food which contain purines
  • Reducing the intake of alcohol
  • Weight reduction
  • Altered medication for high blood pressure

Wednesday, July 16, 2008

Arthritis

Arthritis is one of the most common ailment for which Ayurvedic help is being sought these days.
The ayurveda suggests that arthritis is caused primarily by an excess of ama and lack of agni. This can be caused by poor digestion and a weakened colon, resulting in the accumulation of undigested food and the buildup of waste matter. Poor digestion allows toxins to accumulate in the body, and problems with the colon allow the toxins to reach the joints.

Symptoms:Following are the signs that indicate the presence of this ailment:
  • Severe pain in the affected joints.
  • Muscles, ligaments and cartilage become inflamed.
  • Movement of the joint becomes extremely painful, especially in cold, windy and damp weather.
  • It is notable that if this disease is not taken care of properly at the initial stages the joint becomes immobile and may also become permanently deformed.
Causes:
Causes include internal and external factors. It is more common in cold, damp and windy climates. Internally it is a condition which is related to low Agni (poor digestive fire) and poor digestion which leads to the accumulation of toxins (ama). The toxins (ama) produced in the colon are taken up by various parts of the body and depending on the site of deposition, it causes many diseases in the body. For example, if it deposits in the lungs, it causes cough and asthma, in the intestines it causes dysentery. When it deposits in the joints and at the same time there is aggravation of vata, that means if biological humor air is also disturbed, it results in a disease called amavata or arthritis.

Remedies:
  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. 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.
  4. 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.
  5. Camphor, wintergreen and cinnamon oils are beneficial for external application. They can be combined with herbs like ashwagandha in sesame oil for external applications.
  6. Half a teaspoon of turmeric powder with warm water helps cure arthritis.Dosage: Taken twice a day
  7. One raw clove of garlic every day is very beneficial. This clove can be fried in ghee (clarified butter) or castor oil.Dosage: Once daily for two-three months.
  8. Guggulu (a herb) is very helpful in curing arthritis. If available, eat half a teaspoon twice a day after meals with warm water. ·Paste of 1 teaspoon red chilies and fresh ginger mixed in half a cup of sesame oil and strain. Gently rub this oil on the affected joints. ·Camphor, wintergreen and cinnamon oils are also beneficial for external application.
  • Mahanarayan oil improves flexibility, stiffness, muscle fatigue, and removes pain. It is mixed with sesame oil (1:1) and applied to the painful areas. This oil also breaks up blockages and begins to heal locally. After oil application, warm heat, yoga, bath, or mild exercise further improves this situation.
  • Narayan oil is good for muscle and joint pain, lower body circulation, and reversing imbalances caused by aging.
  • Avipattikar churna is good to ingest for rheumatism.
  • Mahamasha taila is also good for externally apply.
  • Karpashasadi oil is good for muscle pain & stiffness.
  • Rasnadi kashayam: 2tsp kashayam mix with 4 tsp warm water ,take thrice a daily before meals.
  • Sahacharadi kashayam : 3tsp twice a daily.
  • Ayurfine forte tab, Dhanvantaram tab, Myostal forte tab, Flexopen tab, etc...
Therapies:
  • Steam Applying heat to the site of arthritis, liquefied toxins, enabling them to flow back into the blood stream to their site of origin. Herbs, food plans and panchakarma removed the toxins from the system. A pressure cooker with herbal or oil steam, like eucalyptus, dislodged toxins. Oils were also be applied to the arthritis (e.g.,. winter green, mixed in a base oil) to help dislodge toxins and remove pain.
  • Enemas and other means of cleaning the colon are often used to help detoxify the body.
Useful Herbs:
A variety of herbs, spices and bitters are used in ayurveda. These are often applied externally or ingested. These are believed to cleanse the body and to relieve pain and stiffness. Mint, ephedra, golden seal, gentian, nirgundi, eucalyptus leaves, prasarini, quassia, coptis, scute, phellodendrom, aloe, guggul, du huo, ligusticum, Siberian ginseng, myrrh, and yucca are some of the herbs used.

Dos and don'ts:
Following is the diet suggested for the patients suffering form arthritis:
  • Vegetable juices and soups
  • Coconut water
  • Coconut milk
  • Carrot juice
  • Beet root juice
  • Cucumber juice
  • Cooked vegetables like squash, zucchini and pumpkin
  • Spices like cumin, coriander, ginger, asafetida, garlic, fennel and turmeric Green salad with a dressing of lemon juice and a little salt
  • Khichadi (recipe made by cooking rice and mung dal )
  • Regular physical exercise and massage with oil should form an important part of the routine.
The patient of arthritis must avoid the following:
  • Eating hot, spicy and fried foods, sweets, wind forming foods like cabbage, Cauliflower, spinach, broccoli, okra and potatoes.
  • Too much tea, coffee, alcohol, white sugar, yogurt, chocolate, cocoa.
  • Antibiotics, painkillers, steroids and nicotine
  • Sleeping during the day
  • Staying up late at night
  • Mental tensions like worry, anxiety, fear, stress and grief.