Dietary Therapy in Ayurvedic Healing

Dietary therapy is one of the most commonly used tools in Ayurvedic healing. There is no one general diet for everyone. Instead, each individual is prescribed a special diet according to his body type and season.

If there is one universal factor in Ayurvedic diets, it would probably be that they are always vegetarian. Though this was not always so, years of study concluded that, at least in Ayurvedic medicine, there are no nutritional benefits to a non-vegetarian diet.

Specific diets are also prescribed for specific diseases. For a patient with asthma, plenty of fresh fruits are required, while restricting alcoholic and caffeine-containing beverages, rice and anything containing sugar. There are certain dietary recommendations to assist smokers trying to quit the habit. Having water with a teaspoonful of baking soda in it at dinner is said to suppress the craving for a cigarette after eating.

Diet therapy as part of the Ayurvedic healing process also considers many details of a meal that are normally overlooked. One of those is food combinations. Custom guidelines are prescribed regarding which foods should and should not be eaten during the same meal. For example, fresh fruit is never combined with other food as part of a meal, but instead is to be eaten separately.

Taste is another one of the many important variables in an Ayurvedic diet. The discipline works within six different taste categories, which are sweet, salty, sour, bitter, pungent and astringent. Ayurvedic doctors combine two or more of them in a variety of different ways, depending on the individual evaluation, as just one part of a multi-faceted dietary treatment to heal imbalance and maintain optimal health.

In diets working as part of an Ayurvedic healing regimen, there are also optimal times for eating certain foods. Some of these types of requirements include designating lunch as the main meal of the day, and observing a lighter evening meal early in the evening to encourage thorough digestion before retiring.

Daniel Amme writes the Ayurveda Health Blog.

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Yoga and Ayurveda Treatments For Colds and the Flu

According to Ayurveda, the ancient Indian science of healing, colds are a Kapha and Vata disorder and the best herbal remedy for overcoming them is ginger. There are many concoctions you can make using ginger, all of which would be useful, but the following is my choice as it is one that tastes good, so even your kids won’t mind taking it.

Mix 1/4 teaspoon of ginger powder and 1/8 teaspoon of turmeric powder, with enough honey to make a paste in a tablespoon. Then take by licking slowly. The ginger will help soothe the cough and cold, the honey will help the throat and the turmeric will act as an antiseptic. It is the medicine of choice at my house in winter.

Another variation which is also excellent for cough and colds, is to take the same portions of ginger powder, turmeric powder and a teaspoon of honey, in about 2 ounces of hot water, as the last thing before sleeping. This is also a very effective remedy.

Yoga Remedy for Colds:

To help fight off colds and better still, to help prevent them in the first place, practice Kapalbhati Pranayama. This pranayama is one of the best ways to boost your health and immune system. It also generates heat in the body to offset the Kapha/Vata imbalance and helps clear of system of congestion.

For Kapalbhati pranayama sit up in a comfortable position and then breath putting force on the exhalation, while leaving the inhalation passive. So you will sharply exhale through the nose, allowing the navel to naturally contract inwards, then follow it up with a passive inhalation.

Another pranayama that is great for battling colds and the flu, boosting internal heat, detoxifying and building your immune system is the potent Kundalini Yoga Breath of Fire Breathing Exercise.

To practice Breath of Fire, sit up in a comfortable posture, keeping the back straight and then begin to breathe rapidly through the nose putting equal emphasis on the inhalation and exhalation. The stomach will pulse on it’s own. The key to breath of fire is to focus the breath at the tip of the nose and not force the breathing using the diaphragm. It is like very fast sniffing.

Summary:

Combining Ayurvedic treatments with Yoga therapy is a powerful way to heal and take care of your health. Both practices are all natural, holistic sciences and the treatments they use have no dangerous side affects or artificial components.

Anmol Mehta is a modern Yoga & Meditation master. His free website offers Kids Yoga Poses, excellent Meditation Techniques and the Mind Expanding Guided Meditation Download.

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Insomnia Treatment with Ayurvedic and Home Remedies

Insomnia has become one of the commonest lifestyle-related problems in the world today. Sleep is extremely necessary to bring the body back to a normal state of functioning. Without sleep, the body will be unable to work efficiently and thus progress will be hampered.

An aggravation of the vata or the pitta doshas causes insomnia. Insomnia is not related to the kapha dosha. Such an aggravation can be caused due to several factors such as:

- A very busy and hectic lifestyle which is rife with mental problems

- Consuming a heavy meal shortly before bedtime

- Sleeping in the afternoons (siesta)

- Lethargic life without much activity

- Non-conducive climatic conditions

- Physiological reasons such as menopause in women

- Diseases such as high blood pressure, heart diseases or diseases of the kidney and liver.

It must be noted that both overwork and less work can cause insomnia. Hence, in order to get good sleep, it is necessary that the person word adequately according to their physical capacity and lead a healthy lifestyle.

(1) Useful Herbs in the Treatment of Insomnia

1. Aniseed (Pimpinella anisum)

Aniseed helps in relaxing the nervous system. Its pleasant taste helps the body to rest. Hence its tea is prescribed to people having insomnia problems.

2. Celery (Apium graveolens)

Just like aniseed, celery also makes the body relax and the nerves to soothe down.

3. Indian Sorrel (Oxalis corniculata)

The juice of the leaves of the Indian sorrel has good effects in inducing sleep.

4. Nutmeg (Myristica fragrans)

Nutmeg is used especially in treating sleep problems in children. It is usually taken in mixture with other substances like amalaki and honey.

5. Rauwolfia (Rauwolfia serpentina)

Rauwolfia has natural sedative properties. At the same time it is non-stimulating. So it can be used by children and adults alike to treat their problems of sleeplessness. It is much more effective if its powdered root is taken along with some other scented substance like cardamom or vanilla.

6. Valerian (Valeriana officinalis)

Valerian is almost a narcotic in its effects on the human body, but it contains none of the addictive dangers. Consumption of the valerian root can reduce excitements, irritations and pains and induce good sleep.

(2) Dietary Treatments for Insomnia

A healthy diet can help in getting a good restful sleep at night. The following guidelines must be obeyed:-

1. For people who constantly suffer from insomnia problems, heavy foods must be avoided. If the person needs to have a heavy meal, then it must be taken at least three to four hours before retiring to bed. A walk after dinner helps to digest the food and bring good sleep at night.

2. A glass of buffalo milk before bedtime is good for sleep. Butter and ghee are also considered to be sleep-inducers.

3. As far as possible, spicy and oily foods must be avoided after dusk, especially if the person is prone to lose sleep at night.

(3) Ayurvedic Treatments for Insomnia

In most general cases, medication is not necessary to treat insomnia. The Ayurvedic doctor would first ascertain the cause of the sleeplessness and then eliminate it. This is enough to bring sleep.

But if sleeplessness persists, then medicines made from brahmi, vacha and amalaki are prescribed. They are provided in powder form, either collectively or separately.

Massaging the head with sesame oil is also beneficial in treating sleeplessness. Several yogic asanas are also prescribed, such as paschimottasana, shirasana, sarvangasana, uttanasana, etc.

(4) Home Remedies for Insomnia

1. Take a glassful of celery juice and mix a teaspoonful of honey in it. Have this every night before going to bed. It will assure a restful sleep throughout the night.

2. Grind some fried cumin seed to a fine powder. Mix them with the pulp of a ripe banana. Eating this at night induces sleep.

3. Mix the juice of the leaves of the Indian sorrel with its oil in equal contents. This is to be stored in a bottle. Massage this oil into the scalp every night before going to bed. It will cool the brain down and help get good sleep.

4. For people suffering from chronic insomnia, there is a therapy known as dhara, which can be done at home. Boil about two liters of buffalo milk with 60 grams of amalaki (Emblica officinalis, Indian gooseberry) powder. The milk with curdle. Churn this curd by adding water and extract butter from it. Make the patient lie flat on the ground on a mat. Suspend the buttermilk from an earthen pot with a hole in its base, such that the buttermilk drips directly between the two eyebrows of the person on the ground. Continue this therapy for about twenty minutes. Within a few days the insomnia will be totally cured.

The best way to treat insomnia is to seek a change in the lifestyle. Make your life simpler and avoid tensions and worries. This will not only provide good sleep, but it will also keep the body free from several other diseases and infections.

Read More on insomnia cure by Ayurveda at http://www.ayushveda.com
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Allergies – Ayurvedic Management

According to Ayurveda, an ancient healing system, one develops allergies when ojas (life force) is depleted & when the immune system is weakened. High quality ojas is primarily built from proper digestion of wholesome foods, and is depleted through stress, lack of rest, toxic foods, irregular eating habits and routines & turbulent emotions. Ayurvedic management of allergies includes:

a) Diet, Nutrition and Digestion – Allergies can be aggravated through improper diet. Foods that can be easily digested, creating nutrients that are then assimilated into the tissues to rebuild their strength is recommended. Prepare foods in ways that create maximum nourishment for the body.

b) Stress Management and Improved Emotional Function – Allergies are worsened by heightened stress and mental fatigue. Sleep disturbance that is often created by symptoms of allergies increases fatigue, which in turn increases one’s susceptibility to stress, which in turn aggravates the allergy condition. Meditation relieves the stress component of allergies.

c) Lifestyle and Daily Routine – Regularity in our daily routine is highly effective as one of the most important factors for balancing Vata and keeping the natural cleansing processes strong is to have a lifestyle that does not disturb natural bodily rhythms

d) Ayurvedic Herbs – Appropriate herbal formulas is advised for aiding the healing process, strengthening digestion and helping the body purify itself.

e) Herbal Oil Massage – Daily oil massage creates heat and friction which enhance circulation and help cleanse the areas of chemical impurities that could be causing symptoms of allergies.

f) Cleansing therapies – Treatment program of massage, application of herbal preparations and mild internal cleansing therapies like panchakarma is the cornerstone of ayurvedic treatment.

g) Exercise – Ayurveda considers proper stretching and flexibility exercises to have a very positive effect on the body’s healing response and the treatment of allergies. Yoga breathing practices that create a state of restful alertness in mind and body.

Thus, Ayurveda is an integrated approach to allergy as it eliminates toxin buildup, stabilize the nervous system, enliven the healing ability of the body and manage stress and thereby strikes the allergy at its root.

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Natural Cancer Cure – An Ayurvedic Alternative!

Alternative Medicine

This is basically termed as any healing process or health care system that does not come under the sphere of conventional treatments but which has shown to produce reliable and commendable results, having the distinctive ability to cure most deadly diseases known to mankind including Cancer. The thought of a realistic Alternative Cancer Cure remedy emerging by exploiting these unique methods of healing has never been more important than it is today. It also needs to be stressed that medicine defined as alternative in one continent may be considered mainstream in another, especially in the Oriental and South Asian cultures. Alternative therapies are most often based on precise health regimens that generate unique and efficacious healing tendencies inside the body, even though little scientific evidence supports this theory, compared to the meticulous standards of authentication employed by traditional medicine to substantiate such beliefs of comprehensive cure. Rather it relatively entails exclusive methods of healing that literally encompasses cultural and historical inclinations, with even modest or no scientific verification desired or required by such alternative practitioners. Some examples of these therapies include: Herbalism, Ayurveda, Unani, Homeopathy, Naturopathy, and traditional Chinese medicine. In many of these treatments, in addition to a combination of other routines, it allocates considerable importance on healthy diet-based rehabilitation to accomplish rapid recovery of the body from any ailment.

Several mainstream campaigners have frequently begun to advocate that such alternative techniques should be complimented with conventional treatments as well, but quite appropriately an enormously significant section of the alternative therapy community have vehemently opposed this notion, as the diversity in these two healing foundations are understandably far too conflicting. It is therefore coherently preferred instead, to emphasize solely on this distinctly exceptional approach of healing rather than clustering the two procedures together which could simply complicate and compromise both methodologies adversely. Usually any claims of accomplishment made by alternative practitioners are rarely or never accepted by the conventional community, since there is almost always a lack of proof or strong collaborative evidence of efficacy and safety allied with these treatments. These unfortunate realities have caused the conventional lobby to brand alternative therapies as just a set of practices that either could not be confirmed, reject confirmation or even fail basic corroboration on a consistent basis. Conversely, if any alternative practice establishes credible scientific evidence of effectiveness with supplementary secure procedures of implementation, it is then considered mainstream medicine and not alternative any longer.

As a general rule, alternative medicine tends to fall short of the so-called scientific evidence required regardless of its time-tested and expansively proven efficiency in curing many infirmities of the human body. There again due to this scenario, it has caused many mainstream activists to characterize alternative methods as either evidence-less remedies or even refusing to describe it as medicine by any contemporary classification. Nevertheless, a few sensible mainstream researchers argue that imposing the credible evidence-based constrains on alternative therapies are inequitable since many modern measures of healing identified as mainstream, is deficient of these same stringent standards of concrete scientific evidence. But they all concur in unison that any system of therapy or medication, whether alternative or conventional, ought to have at least the very bare minimum standards of entrenched evidence in order to warrant unconditional acknowledgment.

Despite the setbacks faced by these genuine alternative methods of cure, which has been unjustly depicted as dismal, awkward or even fictional, the undeniable fact remains that the outcome it fabricates is extensively recognized and endorsed by the majority of the mainstream community. However, it is also clearly accepted by these traditional crusaders that an ideal state has still not been attained, by either alternative or conventional treatments, as ultimate evidence-substantiate medication.

Ayurveda Treatment

Ayurveda therapy is a particular native system of remedies that has been chiefly practiced in the Indian subcontinent, with claims of astounding accomplishments in the treatment and cure of countless so-called incurable diseases, including many common types of Cancer. It is now beginning to be acknowledged widely by the developed world as a viable Alternative Cancer Cure technique, as well as a promising method of treatment for many other discrepancies of the body. Having evolved effectively through the centuries, Ayurvedic remedies continue to remain a decisive and highly influential form of therapy in numerous South Asian cultures.

The word Ayurveda is of Sanskrit origin and is a combination of two meanings: Life and Knowledge or The Science of Life. The initial literature on these healing methods appeared during the Vedic period, while there were also significant works demonstrated in the Sushruta Samhita and Charaka Samhita texts of that era as well. At the time, practitioners of Ayurveda discovered a vast number of medicinal formulas and even surgical procedures that cured an array of diseases such as Cancer and others, with immense success. As maintained by heritage, Ayurveda is essentially an annexure of the four central Vedas or awareness frameworks. The most renowned of treaties were the Charaka Samhita, which dealt in minute detail to the prevention and cure of disease while the Sushruta Samhita concentrated solely on surgical solutions.

Ayurveda is fundamentally built upon the foundations of the five grand metaphysic elements: Air, Earth, Fire, Space and Water which is believed to be the edifice of the entire universe including the human being. The following seven constituents: Chyle or Bodily-Fluid, Blood, Bone, Flesh, Fat, Marrow, Semen or the female reproductive requisites are believed to be the key rudiments of the body. And in the scheme of Ayurveda the supreme balance of three specific essentials: Air or Spirit, Bile and Phlegm are strongly emphasized on, as these are said to be symbolized by divine might. Accordingly, these three regulatory basics that are envisaged are perceived to be of paramount importance to the human body, in maintaining an appropriate balance of the internal mechanism so that it could function flawlessly.

Therefore, in Ayurvedic treatment it is considered enormously imperative to provide these three prerequisites, along with the other seven, with an absolute equilibrium so as to enable the human being to survive and thrive on this earth, with little or no possibility of demise by way of disease. The Ayurvedic philosophy also propagates that preventing a malady merits wider prominence than curing it, and as such the radical changing of negative lifestyle is compellingly recommended. These transformations would ideally center on healthy diet and physical exercise which brings together mind and body or soul and conscience, into perfect unanimity thus guaranteeing vibrant health. Furthermore, this is primarily initiated to align, direct and harmonize the body with the four seasons of nature that would in turn ensure complete wellbeing of the individual.

Alternative Cancer Cure

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Ayurvedic Medicine

Alternative medicine is a term to describe healing practice that is beyond conventional medicine. A few popular form of highly commercialized alternative medicine are Naturopathy, traditional Chinese medicine, Ayurveda, meditation, homeopathy and diet-based therapies. Frequently grouped with complementary medicine, alternative medicine comes from different foundations and practices.

The basis of the practice could originate from traditional medicine, folk knowledge, spiritual belief, or newly found approached towards healing. As more people turn towards alternative medicine, governmental and scientific bodies are setting a benchmark to regulate those practices and perform research to prove their claim of effectiveness. Regulation by health and scientific bodies will help in preventing malpractice which can in some cases cause negative effects to patients. More and more medical colleges are offering courses in alternative medicine. Future doctors and health practitioners were trained to open their mind towards the possibility of coupling conventional medicine with alternative medicine.

Ayurvedic medicine is one of the oldest forms of alternative medicine practiced by Hindus. In India, Sri Lanka and Pakistan, conventional medical practitioners work together with Ayurvedic physicians to treat patients. Based on complete heathcare system through detoxification, diet, exercise, herbal medicine and techniques to improve mental and emotional health, Ayurvedic medicine is practiced to maintain health and prevent illnesses. Revolving around keeping the three vital energies balanced, Ayurveda considers good digestion and positive emotions as keys to good health. Infants to elderly persons can benefit from Ayurvedic medicine which can cure many modern conditions or diseases. Most localities will have at least a shop where you can buy Ayuvedic medicine after seeking advice from a certified practitioner.

Buy Ayurvedic medicine if you are thinking of quitting smoking or if you want to cure your indigestion. Ayurvedic herbal clinic offers herbal cigarettes which provides alternative to tobacco and is claimed to be effective in breaking addiction. Smokers are promised clarity of mind, throat, chest and even the five senses when smoking the herbal cigarettes. It contains no chemicals and shows amazing results as testified by many users. Other than getting off cigarette, it can also strengthen your immune system. Herbal cigarettes can help with preventing depression, anxiety, and weight gain normally associated with quitting. You will have reduced nicotine craving and a more control appetite at the same time. Indigestion is another problem busy modern people suffer in silence. Himalaya Ayurvedic Herbal Tea for digestion will help in regulating digestive system and provide relief from abdominal discomfort. You can say goodbye to indigestion, belching, hyperacidity and flatulence just by taking a cup of tea two times a day after meals.

Herbal medicine prepared for Ayurvedic treatments are prepared by government licensed producers in India. The preparation of the herbal medicine requires long processes but it is currently aided with modern technologies. You can buy Ayurvedic Medicine in the form of liquid, tablets, powder or paste. There are absolutely no chemicals in ayurvedic medications. Exercise, Yoga and meditation might also be advised for people seeking this alternative treatment. Ayurvedic herbal medicines can treat problems on digestions, circulation, metabolic disorders, disorder of nervous system and symptoms such as insomnia, headache, tension, anxiety, high blood pressure, blood sugar problems, injuries and others.

Alternative medicine provide a better, affordable and safer form of treatment and compared to prescription drugs, there are little or no known side effects associated with it. Visit HerbalHealthCure.com online herbal store to buy ayurvedic medicine today.

It’s a Mad, Mad World! Mental Health – An Ayurvedic Perspective

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), about 450 million people worldwide are affected by mental, neurological or behavioral problems. However, determining that someone has a mental illness, and which one it could be, is one of the greatest challenges psychiatrists and psychologists face today. To date, the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual (the psychiatrists bible), lists over 400 disorders.

It’s quite normal to sometimes feel happy or sad, anxious or fearful, forgetful or confused. These are the hills and valleys of emotion in our daily lives. But when a person’s emotions, thoughts or behavior frequently trouble them, or disrupt their lives and those around them, they may be suffering from mental illness. Even though as many as one in five people are thought to suffer from a form of mental illness, it still carries with it stigma and discrimination. Because of this people are reluctant to admit they have a problem and seek help and treatment. Unfortunately, when mental illness goes untreated the result can be suicide, which claims 873,000 lives a year. The economic costs of these conditions are also enormous and growing. According to the WHO, depression is expected to account for more lost years of healthy life than any other disease by 2030, except for HIV/AIDS.

What Causes Mental Illness?

Western scientists can tell us what happens as a result of certain mental health issues, but they cannot give us the underlying cause. For instance, brain scans have directly linked depression with changes in levels of neurotransmitters – chemicals that convey messages across neurons – people suffering from depression often display lowered levels of neurotransmitter serotonin. Serotonin’s main effects include improving mood and giving you that “satisfied” feeling from food. It’s also thought to help promote sleep and relaxation. Alzheimer’s disease, a major source of dementia and memory loss in the elderly, is a result of an accumulation of protein plaques, which choke neurons in the brain. Untreated HIV infection, syphilis, Lyme disease and malaria are also thought capable of triggering a variety of mental illnesses. Modern medicine does not recognize a link between the body, mind and emotions. They look at the body as a machine, working independently of the mind.

The 5,000-year-old holistic science of Ayurvedic medicine, on the other hand, views the human being as body, mind and spirit, including the emotions and psychology, on all levels. It incorporates longevity, rejuvenation and self-realization therapies utilizing herbs, diet, yoga; breathing and physical exercises and meditation, massage, aromas and mantras. Ayurveda uses the concept of three biological humors; vata (air), pitta (fire), and kapha (earth) that if become unbalanced can affect us mentally, with disturbed emotions and thoughts, this will usually be reflected on a physical level also and visa versa. Through recent scientific research Dr. Candace Pert has come to a similar conclusion in her book Molecules of Emotion. Pert refers to the mind-body connection or a network of emotions linking the mind to the body. She demonstrates that cells throughout the body secrete ‘emotional’ hormones; these are then picked up by nerve impulses to produce the corresponding changes in mood and behavior. The immune system is linked with the brain (pituitary gland) and the endocrine system. Endorphins are the body’s natural ‘opiates’ or pleasure hormones and are known to be increased by pranayama (yogic breathing) and yoga asana. Stress affects the body by releasing hormones, adrenaline and corticosterone from the brain and the immune system. Once in a stressed state the body itself can continue the stress cycle by the continuous activation of corticosterone. Depressed and traumatized people have high levels of corticosterone and often have a decreased level of immunity. This physiological state can be deactivated when the trauma and stress are released. In Ayurveda this means transforming the negative emotions, like fear, pain, anger and grief into positive ones.

The Function of the Astral Body

In Ayurveda and many other natural healing methods a subtle astral or emotional body is recognized to exist simultaneously with the physical body. It is linked to the physical body by energy centers or chakras. Subtle channels known as nadis transport prana or the essence of life energy and thought to corresponding glands around the body. Disruption in the flow of these energies causes psychological disease. As mentioned yogic breathing can keep these energies circulating, as can certain herbs such as calamus, basil, turmeric, guggul, myrrh, frankincense and cedar.

There is a shield between the astral and physical bodies, which protect us from negative thoughts or energies that are within the astral atmosphere. For instance, there is so much accumulated fear within the world projected from wars, the slaughter of billions of animals, pain and suffering of women and children that exists in the astral plane that if the link becomes weak we can no longer discriminate the physical from the astral. The fear, pain and anger “out there”, affects our thoughts, fantasies and emotions, and we lose control. A physical trauma such as a severe blow to the head, sexual or physical abuse, excessive alcohol and mind-altering drugs such as LSD, ecstasy, cannabis and heroine can weaken this shield. Persons who are channelers open themselves up the astral plane also. One striking example of this is schizophrenia. This is a distorted view of reality, which may include hallucinations, hearing voices, delusions, and paranoia. Ayurveda recognizes this to be a symptom of a destructive astral force or entity entering the physical body commonly known as possession. Many Hindu priests, as well as Catholic priests, are taught a certain practice through prayer and sanctified water to rid the sufferer of the negative energy. Calamus, Holy basil and Gotu kola are then administered with perhaps some time being spent in a ‘sattvic’ or loving monastic environment.

Allopathic Psychiatric Treatments

Psychiatric treatment for mental illness can take many forms. The patient is encouraged to recognize their problems, understand what may trigger undesirable behavior, and develop coping strategies. Mood-stabilizing aim to moderate manic episodes of bipolar disorder and may also reduce recurrences of depression. Recently, however, some experts think there has been a rush to medicate and have questioned the effectiveness of many drugs. There is also controversy about using these drugs – such as Ritalin or amphetamines to treat children.

Various Mental Disorders and Ayurvedic Treatments

Depression

Among the most common mental illnesses is clinical depression. It is described as a prolonged, debilitating sadness, and feelings of hopelessness that is often accompanied by no highs or lows, just a bland existence which will ultimately lead to thoughts of suicide. The numbers of adolescents suffering from clinical depression have risen alarmingly in the last 10 years. Statistics show that suicide is the third leading cause of death in youths between 10 and 19 years old.

Bipolar disorder (also known as manic depression) is an affective disorder that causes periodic mood swings in which they cycle from depression to mania. Depression may be characterized by having a lack of motivation, difficulty doing tasks, short attention span, decreased appetite, crying spells, difficulty in getting to sleep or sleeping too much, and in the more severe cases thoughts of self harm. Mania is separated into two types: Full mania and hypomania. Mania may be characterized by a decreased need for sleep, decreased self-control, overspending, increased sexual activity, irritability, rage, risk-taking behaviors, and in the more severe cases psychotic states. Hypomania is described as having the same behaviors, to a less extreme level.

Ayurvedic Treatment

A need to arouse the sufferer’s interest and enthusiasm in life is introduced to the sense of taste. Spices like ginger, cardamon and basil are used to open the heart and mind. Calamus teas are given with a little ginger and honey. Mints and sages of all types are useful. Triphala is given to alleviate constipation. Color therapy is used with warm tones of yellow and gold. Long walks are encourages in nature at her best; sunshine, river, lakes and forests. All these places are filled with pranic energy.

Cutting or Self-Injury

Self-injury involves self-inflicted bodily harm that is severe enough to either cause tissue damage or to leave marks that last several hours. Cutting is the most common form of SI, but burning, head banging and scratching are also common. Other forms include biting, skin-picking, hair pulling, hitting the body with objects or hitting objects with the body. Although suicidal feelings may accompany SI, it does not necessarily indicate a suicide attempt. Most often it is simply a mechanism for coping with emotional distress. People who select this emotional outlet may use it to express feelings, to deal with feelings of unreality or numbness, to stop flashbacks, to punish themselves, or to relieve tension. Although SI is recognized as a common problem among the teenage population, it is not limited to adolescents. People of all sexes, nationalities, socioeconomic groups and ages can be self-injurers.

Ayurvedic Treatment

Often, the sufferer feels the need to stimulate themselves by pain. Ayurveda uses nervine herbs like Trikatu, cayenne, cardamom, cloves and calamus. Warming and nourishing these feed the emotional heart. Pippali is good also, 1/4 teaspoon with honey every few hours. Avoid sleeping during the day.

Anxiety Disorders

These include post-traumatic stress disorder, panic attacks, obsessive-compulsive disorder, anger disorders, hypochondria, and phobias such as agoraphobia (open spaces), claustrophobia (small places), acrophobia (heights), arachnophobia (spiders) and social phobia (being around people). These are all characterized by powerful feelings of panic and physical signs of fear, sweating, and a racing heart – due to some cue in the environment, or for no obvious reason at all. Many sufferers believe they are either going insane or going to die.

Ayurvedic Treatment

Anxiety is mainly a Vata disorder and Ashwaganda is generally given am and pm in warm milk. Aromatherapy, using rose and jasmine is used. Warm massage and gentle, slow yogic techniques. Maha Mantra and Shrim mantra should be spoken.

Eating Disorders

There are three common eating disorders; anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa, and binge eating disorder. Each disorder has different affects on the human body. A disease that used to be associated with young women is now appearing in young men. Anorexia is characterized by a significant weight loss, which is usually resulting from excessive dieting. Sufferers see themselves to be overweight, or fat, no matter what their actual weight may be. Anorexics may also use compulsive exercise to control their weight. Anorexics commonly strive for perfection in all the things they do. They set extremely high standards for themselves, and feel that they always have to prove themselves. They may also feel that the only thing they have control over in their lives is their weight. People with bulimia engage in cycles of gorging or binging themselves on large quantities of food and then purging through vomiting or use of laxatives. This can have a disastrous effect as with repeated purging the sufferer will lose their teeth from stomach acid and the use of laxatives will eventually render the bowel muscles useless.

Ayurvedic Treatment

To begin with the patients should fast on orange juice and water for first three to five days. After the juice diet the patient may adopt an all fruit diet for a further five days, taking three meals a day of juicy fruits, such as apples, pears, grapes, oranges, pineapple, peaches at five hourly intervals. Thereafter they may adopt a restricted diet of easily digestible foods, consisting of lightly cooked vegetables, juicy fruits, and buttermilk for about ten days. During the first three to five days of the juice fast, the bowels should be cleansed with a warm water enema each day. Teas of cardamom, fennel, and fresh ginger to help regulate digestion and stop vomiting; valerian, nutmeg, herb ashwagandha. Massage with sesame oil, and sandalwood.

Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder ADHD

ADHD, sometimes known as ADD, is a common behavioral disorder that affects an estimated 8% to 10% of school-age children. Boys are about three times more likely than girls to be diagnosed with it, though it’s not yet understood why. Children with ADHD act without thinking, are hyperactive, and have trouble focusing. They can’t sit still, pay attention, or attend to details. Recent research links smoking during pregnancy to later ADHD in a child. Some studies have even suggested a link between excessive early television watching and future attention problems. It has been advised that children under 2 years old should not have any “screen time” (TV, DVDs or videotapes, computers, or video games) and that kids 2 years and older should be limited to 1 to 2 hours per day, or less, of quality television programming.

Ayurvedic Treatment

Child’s diet should consist of fruit, grains and vegetables full of natural vitamins, minerals, and enzymes. Eliminate caffeine, sugar and other sweets, processed food, MSG, aspartame (NutraSweet) and other sugar substitutes, and any foods that contain preservatives, food dyes or other chemicals and eating at fast food chains. Drink water, fresh homemade vegetable and fruit juices. Eliminate sodas and caffeinated beverages. No white bread. No processed peanut butter: It contains aflatoxin, a fungus that causes cancer. Instead use almond butter from your health food store. Children need a lot of rest and should go to bed early. Proper exercise daily- outdoors in the fresh air and sunshine. Play with your children!

Note: Ritalin closely resembles an amphetamine. It is a cocaine-like drug that induces zombie-like behavior in children. The public school system’s idea of ADHD treatments is prescribing Ritalin which, like all toxins, come with a long list of side effects including nervousness, nausea, dizziness, drowsiness, insomnia, joint pains, headaches, increased blood pressure, fever, rapid heartbeat, abdominal pain, and psychosis.

Knowledge is Empowering

Many people take medication to help control or manage the symptoms of their mental illness. A clear knowledge and understanding of medication and possible side effects combined with knowledge and understanding of both oneself and one’s illness is often important in achieving a sense of personal control over the symptoms of the illness. Knowledge enhances your ability to self manage your medication to get the maximum benefits from it while reducing the potential for side effects and the risk of relapse. Acquiring knowledge also enhances your ability to negotiate effectively with the treating doctor about dose, frequency and the types of medication choices. Keeping up with current advances in medication research and the new drugs as they become available also increases your medication and treatment options. Remember it is your body and mind, and your decision what treatment you are going to choose.

Jennifer (Yogamaya) is a director of the Vedic Cultural Fellowship and Pecos Valley Yoga and Ayurveda Center. Born in North Africa, and raised in the UK, as child she was introduced to yoga asana and pranayama by her aunt. During the 1990′s she studied homeopathy, massage, reflexology, nutrition and became a certified instructor by the British Wheel of Yoga. Naturally she was drawn to the sister science of Ayurveda and has studied under Doctors Vasant Lad and David Frawley. In 1998, she returned to the US with her husband Howard Beckman, to establish the Vedic Cultural Fellowship and in 1999 they founded New Rishikesh, in Pecos, New Mexico. In 2003, she was certified as a Planetary Gem Advisor, by the Planetary Gemologist Association in Bangkok Thailand due to her advanced working knowledge of using gemstones in accordance with Vedic astrological principles. Today she and her husband, together with Dr. David Frawley, are developing the VCF’s New Rishikesh as a major teaching and retreat center.

Cerebral Palsy – Ayurvedic Herbal Treatment

Cerebral palsy refers to a group of neurological disorders that appear in infancy or childhood and permanently affect body movement and muscle co-ordination. Symptoms include a lack of muscle co-ordination when performing voluntary movements (ataxia); stiff or tight muscles and exaggerated reflexes (spasticity); walking with one foot or leg dragging; walking on the toes, a crouched gait, or a ‘scissored ‘ gait; and muscle tone that is either too stiff or too floppy. Cerebral palsy is usually due to brain damage in the first few months or years of life, brain infections such as bacterial meningitis or viral encephalitis, or head injury.

The Ayurvedic treatment of cerebral palsy focuses on treating the presenting symptoms and attempting to reverse the brain damage. A group of herbal medicines called ‘Medhya’ are very useful in improving the functional capacity of the brain and may also help in regeneration of damaged brain cells. These medicines include: Brahmi (Bacopa monnieri), Mandukparni (Centella asiatica), Shankhpushpi (Convolvulus pluricaulis), Jyotishmati (Celastrus panniculatus), Kushmand (Benincasa hispida), Ustukhudoos (Lavendula stoechas), Yashtimadhuk (Glycerrhiza glabra), Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera), Shatavari (Asparagus racemosus), Guduchi (Tinospora cordifolia), Vacha (Acorus calamus), Haritaki (Terminalia chebula), Abhrak-Bhasma and Suvarna-Bhasma. Some of these medicines are also useful in preventing or reducing convulsions.

Medicines which act on the ‘Majja’ dhatu (tissue) are useful in this condition and include Guduchi, Amalaki (Emblica officinalis), Musta (Cyperus rotundus), Panch-Tikta-Ghruta, Panch-Tikta-Ghrut-Guggulu, Brahmi-Ghruta and Pancha-Gavya-Ghruta. In addition, other medicines are used which improve nerve conduction and muscular co-ordination. These medicines include Kaishor-Guggulu, Yograj-Guggulu, Vatagajankush-Ras, Mahavat-Vidhwans-Ras, Tapyadi-Loh-Ras and Vish-Tinduk-Vati.

Massage of the entire body with medicated oils like Maha-Narayan oil, Maha-Mash-oil and Maha-Saindhav-oil are very useful. Specialized Panchkarma procedures like Shiro-Basti, Shiro-Dhara as well as prolonged courses of Basti (medicated enemas) are also very useful in this condition.

Though cerebral palsy may not be fully cured, Ayurvedic treatment can definitely help to reduce disability and improve the functioning of the affected individual to a great extent.

Dr. A. A. Mundewadi is Chief Ayurvedic Physician at Mundewadi Ayurvedic Clinic based at Thane, Maharashtra, India. He is available as an online Ayurvedic Consultant at http://www.ayurvedaphysician.com The online clinic offers Ayurvedic treatment for all chronic and refractory health problems. Dr. A. A. Mundewadi uses high quality herbal extracts in tablet form, which are easy to take, effective and safe for long-term use.

Dr. A. A. Mundewadi, B.A.M.S., has clinical experience of 23 years and clinical research experience of 9 years. He has conducted extensive research in HIV infection, Schizophrenia and many other chronic diseases.

Migraine – Ayurvedic Herbal Treatment

Migraine is a very common form of headache, seen in nearly 15 % of the population. Women are more likely to suffer from migraine, than men, and usually there is a hereditary component seen among sufferers.

Migraine is known as “Ardhavabhedak” in Ayurveda. Ayurvedic treatment of migraine consists of the following procedures: (i) “Swedan” (local fomentation) (ii) “Nasya” (medicated nasal drops) (iii) “Basti” (Medicated enema) (iv) “Shirobasti” (scalp treatment with medicated milk or oil) (v) “Dahan” (local heat branding ) and (vi) “Shaman” ( symptomatic oral treatment).

Local fomentation is done by a procedure called “Naadi swedan”. In this procedure, a jet of medicated steam is directed at the forehead and around the temple area, usually after local application of some medicated oil. A decoction of Nirgundi (Vitex negundo) is usually used for this procedure.

Nasya or medicated oil drops used for the treatment of migraine is of two types. The first is called “Shirovirechan”, in which strong, irritant medicines are instilled as nasal drops, which induce sneezing and watery discharge. The second is called as “Avapidak nasya’ in which a paste is prepared of a herb or several herbs, and the liquid is inserted in the nostrils. Usually, herbs like Vacha (Acorus calamus) and Pippali ( Piper longum) are used along with honey. Both procedures are aimed at removing the cause of the headache and the pain.

The medicated enema used in migraine is called as “Anuvasan Basti”. Small quantities of medicated oils, usually about 50 ml. are given at regular intervals, on an outpatient basis. Oil of Sesame and Mahanarayan oil (containing mainly Asparagus racemosus) are usually used for this purpose.

Shirobasti is a special procedure in which a special cylindrical cap is fitted on the shaved head and sealed all round to prevent leakage of medicine. Medicated oils and milk are poured into this cap, so that the medicine remains in contact with the scalp for a specific time. This is done at regular intervals till improvement is seen.

Those who do not respond to standard treatment are given heat branding at the site of the temple on the affected side.

Oral medications include Tribhuvankirti, Bhallatakasav, Triphala Guggulu and Godanti Bhasma. Several single and compound herbal medicines are used to treat the presenting symptom of headache as also treatment of blood impurity and reduction of stress and anxiety. However, a detailed history for the symptoms and a detailed study of the constitutional framework of the patient is essential in deciding the ideal combination of medicines for each patient, so as to get maximum results. Overall, with oral medications, and sometimes accompanied by some simple nasal drops, the majority of patients suffering from mild to moderate migraine get significant improvement in 1 – 3 months of treatment. Severe migraine sufferers may require more prolonged treatment.

Some patients may require repeat courses of medicines to completely prevent or stop recurrence.

It is advisable to avoid known trigger factors, irregularity in meals, and physical and emotional stress.

Dr. A. A. Mundewadi is Chief Ayurvedic Physician at Mundewadi Ayurvedic Clinic based at Thane, Maharashtra, India. He is available as an online Ayurvedic Consultant at http://www.ayurvedaphysician.com His blog titled”Herbal Medicines” can be accessed at http://www.ayurvedicherbalmedicines.blogspot.com

Dr. A. A. Mundewadi, B.A.M.S., is a practicing Ayurvedic physician since the last 22 years. He is a graduate of R. A. Podar Medical (Ayurvedic ) College, Worli, Mumbai, India. During this period of 22 years, he has obtained considerable experience in the clinical treatment of a vast array of patients.

Dr. Mundewadi has studied and experienced extensively all the principles of Ayurveda , involving a healthy life-style, diet regimes, body-cleansing through panch-karma procedures, and treatment with herbal and herbo-mineral compounds.

Dr. Mundewadi has also studied the therapeutic effects of Reiki( he is a 3rd degree Reiki Master), Acupuncture ( he has done a basic and an advanced course in Acupuncture), Hypnotherapy and Magnetotherapy. His current style of clinical practice is a culmination of his experience with all these different treatment modalities.

Dr. Mundewadi has been doing clinical research work since the last 9 years. He has published his findings of herbal treatment of HIV / AIDS in 55 patients in the Bombay Hospital Journal, Mumbai, India, July 2005 issue. He has also successfully completed a clinical trial of herbal extract medicines in Schizophrenia compared to modern anti-psychotics, in 200 patients( See http://www.clinicaltrials.gov/ct/show/NCT00483964 ). He has also conducted preliminary studies of Ayurvedic herbal extracts in the treatment of Bipolar Disorder, Vascular Dementia, Alzheimer’s Disease, Parkinson’s Disease, Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, Autism, Mental Retardation, and Tobacco and Alcohol Dependence. He also has a special interest in the herbal treatment of Age Related Macular Degeneration and different types of Cancer.

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Leg Pains – Dietary and Ayurvedic Treatment, Home Remedies

Pains in the legs could be due to joint pains or due to muscle cramps. Joint pains are generally observed in arthritis, a condition which sets in as the person’s advances in age. In arthritis, the articulation of the bones gradually wears out over time, leading to pains whenever they function. This is called as Aama Vata in Ayurvedic language.

Muscle cramps usually affect the muscles of the leg. It is known as Khalli Vata in Ayurveda. There is a special term for the muscle cramps that affect only the calf muscles, and that is Pindikoveshtana. From an Ayurvedic point of view, almost all pains are caused due to vitiation of the vata dosha. Specifically in leg pains due to muscle cramps, the Vyana vata is vitiated. This is a sub-dosha of the vata which controls the involuntary muscles of the body.

Pains occur when there is an ama buildup in the body. Ama is the name given to the toxic materials caused due to improper digestion that cannot be expelled from the body. Such ama causes several problems, including leg pains. Ama is built up due to high agni, i.e. digestive fire, which is governed by the pitta dosha. Hence there is also a pitta relation with the leg pains.

(1) Useful Herbs in the Treatment of Leg Pains

1. Clove (Syzygium aromaticum)

Clove oil is applied on the affected leg muscle as a poultice. It provides immediate relief from pains, especially if they are due to muscle cramps.

2. Ginger (Zingiber officinale)

Ginger has wonderful painkilling properties. It must be included in the daily diet if muscular pains in the legs are a chronic problem.

3. Licorice (Glycyrrhiza glabra)

Licorice is very effective in relieving muscle aches. An infusion of its roots must be prepared in water and kept overnight. This helps in almost all kinds of muscle problems.

4. Madhuca (Madhuca indica)

Madhuca has positive effects on leg pains, especially if they are due to rheumatism. Its oil is applied locally over the affected regions.

5. Pepper (Piper nigrum)

Pepper helps in dilating the superficial blood vessels, thus helping in proper blood circulation. It also has analgesic properties and can be used as a liniment in muscular problems.

(2) Dietary Treatments for Leg Pains

Since improper digestion can cause leg pains, care must be taken not to eat anything that can cause digestive problems. Do not consume constipating foods; keep your diet simple. Consume plenty of green vegetables and leafy vegetables that contain fiber. Vitamin C obtained from amalaki, oranges and tomatoes is also good for digestion. After each meal, make it a habit to eat a plantain instead of some calorie-rich dessert like ice-cream. A plantain is a food that is extremely rich in minerals of potassium, magnesium and calcium. Hence it is extremely beneficial for proper metabolism within the leg region. Avoid coffee and chocolate if you have persistent leg pain problems.

The importance of adequate amount of fluids cannot be stressed enough. Dehydration is a leading cause of leg pains. Keep drinking one glass of water every waking hour to prevent dehydratiom.

(3) Ayurvedic Treatments for Leg Pains

There are good oils in Ayurveda that are used for external application over the affected legs. If the muscle pains have occurred suddenly, then most likely they are cramps. In such cases, Mahanarayana tailam or Praharini tailam are applied to get relief. Warming the oils a bit and then applying has better effects.

For internal administration, Sinhanaada Guggulu is prescribed. This drug is also a mild laxative. So it will also correct whatever digestive problems may be there with the system. Other commonly prescribed medicines are Laxmivilasa rasa and Pratapa Lankeshwara rasa.

(4) Home Remedies for Leg Pains

1 If you have regular complains of pains in the legs, then there are some simple exercises you can do in order to get relief from them. Some of them are described:-

a) Lie on your back on a firm bed. Wear some loose clothing over the legs, such as shorts or pajamas. Raise your legs gradually in the air, as far as they can go. The heels should point skywards. Hold the legs in this stretched position for about ten seconds and then bring them down again. Do this five times per session, and repeat the exercise thrice a day.

b) Alternatively you can stand facing a wall at an arm’s length distance from it. Stretch out your arms and touch the wall with your open palms. Then slowly pull yourself forward (towards the wall). Feel the stretching pressure building up in your legs. Hold yourself in this stretched position for about ten seconds and then let go. Do this five times per session, and repeat the exercise thrice a day.

c) Even Yoga has several leg stretching exercises that can be used with great positive effects. These exercises are Uttanpadasana, Janusandhi and Gomukhasana.

2 If the cramps occur when performing an exercise workout or some physical activity, then have a glass of lemon water with a pinch of salt in it.

3 If you have leg pains in the joints due to arthritis, then crush two to three cloves of garlic and add them to a glass of diluted milk. Boil it to quarter its amount and drink it just before bedtime.

4 Applying a hot pack or fomenting the leg with steam helps to improve circulation in the leg and eases the pain. Even applying cold packs helps. This will reduce the blood flow into the leg region and help the muscle to relax.

5 Put one part of camphor in twenty parts of mustard oil. Keep this in the sun till the time the camphor properly dissolves in the oil. Use this oil to massage the leg on a daily basis.

6 If you get a sudden sprain in the leg, then prepare a paste of turmeric with lime and salt and apply it on the affected part.

Read more on Ayurvedic Treatments for leg Pains at http://www.ayushveda.com
Read more about Ayurveda at World’s Largest Portal on Ayurveda and Ayurvedic Remedies: Ayushveda.com – The Free Ayurvedic Encyclopedia

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