Menopause is a unique experience for every woman. It is the ending of a woman’s monthly menstrual periods and ovulation. It also signals other changes to the body and mind, brought on in part because the body begins producing lesser amounts of the hormones estrogen and progesterone (among others).
Menopause is not a disease. It is a natural process in a woman’s life. How a woman views this time of her life can have a lot to do with how frequent and severe her symptoms are. If menopause is viewed as the end of youth and sexuality, this time will be much more difficult than if it is viewed as the next, natural phase of life, a time of greater freedom, liberation from the restrictions of youth. .
Although menopause is one of the important physical milestones in a woman’s life, many women lack concrete information about what is taking place and what are their options. With a proper diet, nutritional supplements, and exercise and simple lifestyle changes, most of the unpleasant side effects of menopause can be minimized to a great extent and with this knowledge and preparation you can step forward with grace and embrace it!
Ayurveda links menopause with aging. Aging is a ‘Vata’ predominant stage of life. Thus, the symptoms of menopause experienced by some women are similar to the symptoms seen when the Vata dosha rises and upsets the normal balance of the body. Vata-type menopausal symptoms tend to include depression, anxiety, and insomnia. Menopause may also manifest itself as a rise in the other two humors also. Women with Pitta-type symptoms are often angry and suffer hot flashes. Kapha type symptoms include listlessness, weight gain, and feelings of mental and physical heaviness.
The type of treatment depends upon the dosha in which the woman’s menopausal symptoms are manifesting.
Here it is important to note that health problems at menopause represent imbalances in the body that were already growing in the body and are unmasked by the stress of shifting hormones. Menopause symptoms are Nature’s wake-up call to let you know you need to start paying more attention to your health. Taking proper steps in the direction of balancing the imbalance doshas, paying attention to your diet and making lifestyle changes now is critical to ensuring that you age gracefully without the burden of chronic health problems.
Vata-type menopause
Symptoms – Nervousness, anxiety, panic, mood swings, vaginal dryness, loss of skin tone, feeling cold, irregular periods, insomnia, mild or variable hot flashes, constipation, palpitations, bloating and joints aches and pains.
Treatment:
Diet – Increase warm food and drinks, regular meals, and use spices such as fennel and cumin. Decrease caffeine and other stimulants, refined sugar, cold drinks, salads.
Lifestyle – Early bedtime, oil massage using almond and olive oil, meditation, yoga, Regular exercise like walking
Anti-Vata herbs include ashwagandha, arjuna, astragalus, cardamom, comfrey root, garlic, ginseng, guggul, hawthorn berries, licorice, myrrh, rehmannia, sandalwood and zizphus.
Pitta-type menopause
Symptoms – Prone to Hot Temper, anger, irritability, feeling hot, hot flashes, night sweats, heavy periods, excessive bleeding, urinary tract infections, skin rashes and acne.
Treatment:
Diet – Increase cooling foods, water intake, sweet juicy fruits (grapes, pears, plums, mango, melons, apples,) zucchini, yellow squash, cucumber, organic foods. Use spices such as cinnamon, cardamom and fennel. Avoid hot spicy foods, hot drinks and alcohol. no eating late at night.
Lifestyle – Go to bed before 10 PM , oil massage using coconut and sesame oil. Use Meditation and other techniques to reduce anger, hatred and resentment. Exercise and exposure to the sun are limited.
Anti Pitta herbs to be used include aloe vera, arjuna, barberry, golden seal, gotu kola, saffron, sandalwood and shatavari.
Diet – Prefer light, dry and warm food, Consume fruits, whole grains, legumes, vegetables. Use spices such as black pepper, turmeric and ginger. Avoid meat, cheese, sugar, cold foods and drinks. Weekly fasting is helpful. Most or all of the daily food should be consumed before 6 p.m.
Lifestyle – Get up early (by 6AM). Mustard oil and linseed oil are often recommended for massage.
Anti Kapha Herbs include bayberry, cayenne, cinnamon, guggul, motherwort ,mustard and myrrh.
Key factors in achieving graceful menopause -
A smooth menopause transition and great health in the years to come can be achieved with the help of -
Balancing Doshas – Ascertain the imbalance dosha according to your symptoms and follow the advice given above to balance that dosha.
Balancing Diet – Diet plays a key role in balancing hormones during and after menopause. It is well known that Japanese women rarely experience hot flashes, probably because their diet contains large amounts of soy/soya, a food rich in certain plant estrogens called “isoflavones.” Soya products are not the only source of plant estrogens, however. Another equally healthful source of phytoestrogens are “lignans,” compounds found in a variety of whole foods including grains and cereals, dried beans and lentils, flaxseed, sunflower seeds and peanuts, vegetables such as asparagus, sweet potatoes, carrots, garlic and broccoli and fruits such as pears, plums and strawberries. Common herbs and spices such as thyme oregano, nutmeg, turmeric and licorice also have estrogenic properties.
Eat a varied diet high in fruits, vegetables, whole grains and dried beans .It’s a rich source of phytoestrogen. Variety and moderation are important because just as too much estrogen is unhealthy after menopause, too much phytoestrogen may also be dangerous.
Apana Vata, which governs the genito-urinary tract, elimination, and menstruation, is a key area to attend to when preparing for menopause. Drink plenty of warm water throughout the day. Eat plenty of cooked, leafy greens, as this helps elimination and is also a good source of calcium. For both Pitta and Vata imbalances, a breakfast of cooked apples and prunes and figs is a good way to start the day, as it balances the doshas and cleanses the digestive track.
Panchakarma – More serious symptoms, such as frequent hot flashes, continual sleep disturbance, and moderate to severe mood swings, are signs of deeper imbalances.
Ayurveda describes that these stubborn symptoms are usually due to the buildup of wastes and toxins, referred to as “ama,” in the body’s tissues.
In this case, a traditional Ayurvedic detoxification program “panchakarma,” may be needed to clear the body’s channels and gain relief. This internal cleansing approach is also the treatment of choice for more serious problems such as osteoporosis and high cholesterol.
Dr. Mrs. Sushama Patwardhan, is a graduate in Ayurvedic Medicine and Surgery [B.A.M.S] [Ayurvedacharya] Working as Ayurvedic Consultant at Sangli,INDIA for last 23 years.
Menopause is a unique experience for every woman. It is the ending of a woman's monthly menstrual periods and ovulation. It also signals other changes to the body and mind, brought on in part because the body begins producing lesser amounts of the hormones estrogen and progesterone (among others).
Menopause is not a disease. It is a natural process in a woman's life. How a woman views this time of her life can have a lot to do with how frequent and severe her symptoms are. If menopause is viewed as the end of youth and sexuality, this time will be much more difficult than if it is viewed as the next, natural phase of life, a time of greater freedom, liberation from the restrictions of youth. .
Although menopause is one of the important physical milestones in a woman's life, many women lack concrete information about what is taking place and what are their options. With a proper diet, nutritional supplements, and exercise and simple lifestyle changes, most of the unpleasant side effects of menopause can be minimized to a great extent and with this knowledge and preparation you can step forward with grace and embrace it!
Ayurveda links menopause with aging. Aging is a 'Vata' predominant stage of life. Thus, the symptoms of menopause experienced by some women are similar to the symptoms seen when the Vata dosha rises and upsets the normal balance of the body. Vata-type menopausal symptoms tend to include depression, anxiety, and insomnia. Menopause may also manifest itself as a rise in the other two humors also. Women with Pitta-type symptoms are often angry and suffer hot flashes. Kapha type symptoms include listlessness, weight gain, and feelings of mental and physical heaviness.
The type of treatment depends upon the dosha in which the woman's menopausal symptoms are manifesting.
Here it is important to note that health problems at menopause represent imbalances in the body that were already growing in the body and are unmasked by the stress of shifting hormones. Menopause symptoms are Nature's wake-up call to let you know you need to start paying more attention to your health. Taking proper steps in the direction of balancing the imbalance doshas, paying attention to your diet and making lifestyle changes now is critical to ensuring that you age gracefully without the burden of chronic health problems.
Vata-type menopause
Symptoms - Nervousness, anxiety, panic, mood swings, vaginal dryness, loss of skin tone, feeling cold, irregular periods, insomnia, mild or variable hot flashes, constipation, palpitations, bloating and joints aches and pains.
Treatment:
Diet - Increase warm food and drinks, regular meals, and use spices such as fennel and cumin. Decrease caffeine and other stimulants, refined sugar, cold drinks, salads.
Lifestyle - Early bedtime, oil massage using almond and olive oil, meditation, yoga, Regular exercise like walking
Anti-Vata herbs include ashwagandha, arjuna, astragalus, cardamom, comfrey root, garlic, ginseng, guggul, hawthorn berries, licorice, myrrh, rehmannia, sandalwood and zizphus.
Pitta-type menopause
Symptoms - Prone to Hot Temper, anger, irritability, feeling hot, hot flashes, night sweats, heavy periods, excessive bleeding, urinary tract infections, skin rashes and acne.
Treatment:
Diet - Increase cooling foods, water intake, sweet juicy fruits (grapes, pears, plums, mango, melons, apples,) zucchini, yellow squash, cucumber, organic foods. Use spices such as cinnamon, cardamom and fennel. Avoid hot spicy foods, hot drinks and alcohol. no eating late at night.
Lifestyle - Go to bed before 10 PM , oil massage using coconut and sesame oil. Use Meditation and other techniques to reduce anger, hatred and resentment. Exercise and exposure to the sun are limited.
Anti Pitta herbs to be used include aloe vera, arjuna, barberry, golden seal, gotu kola, saffron, sandalwood and shatavari.
Diet - Prefer light, dry and warm food, Consume fruits, whole grains, legumes, vegetables. Use spices such as black pepper, turmeric and ginger. Avoid meat, cheese, sugar, cold foods and drinks. Weekly fasting is helpful. Most or all of the daily food should be consumed before 6 p.m.
Lifestyle - Get up early (by 6AM). Mustard oil and linseed oil are often recommended for massage.
Anti Kapha Herbs include bayberry, cayenne, cinnamon, guggul, motherwort ,mustard and myrrh.
Key factors in achieving graceful menopause -
A smooth menopause transition and great health in the years to come can be achieved with the help of -
Balancing Doshas - Ascertain the imbalance dosha according to your symptoms and follow the advice given above to balance that dosha.
Balancing Diet - Diet plays a key role in balancing hormones during and after menopause. It is well known that Japanese women rarely experience hot flashes, probably because their diet contains large amounts of soy/soya, a food rich in certain plant estrogens called "isoflavones." Soya products are not the only source of plant estrogens, however. Another equally healthful source of phytoestrogens are "lignans," compounds found in a variety of whole foods including grains and cereals, dried beans and lentils, flaxseed, sunflower seeds and peanuts, vegetables such as asparagus, sweet potatoes, carrots, garlic and broccoli and fruits such as pears, plums and strawberries. Common herbs and spices such as thyme oregano, nutmeg, turmeric and licorice also have estrogenic properties.
Eat a varied diet high in fruits, vegetables, whole grains and dried beans .It's a rich source of phytoestrogen. Variety and moderation are important because just as too much estrogen is unhealthy after menopause, too much phytoestrogen may also be dangerous.
Apana Vata, which governs the genito-urinary tract, elimination, and menstruation, is a key area to attend to when preparing for menopause. Drink plenty of warm water throughout the day. Eat plenty of cooked, leafy greens, as this helps elimination and is also a good source of calcium. For both Pitta and Vata imbalances, a breakfast of cooked apples and prunes and figs is a good way to start the day, as it balances the doshas and cleanses the digestive track.
Panchakarma - More serious symptoms, such as frequent hot flashes, continual sleep disturbance, and moderate to severe mood swings, are signs of deeper imbalances.
Ayurveda describes that these stubborn symptoms are usually due to the buildup of wastes and toxins, referred to as "ama," in the body's tissues.
In this case, a traditional Ayurvedic detoxification program "panchakarma," may be needed to clear the body's channels and gain relief. This internal cleansing approach is also the treatment of choice for more serious problems such as osteoporosis and high cholesterol.
Dr. Mrs. Sushama Patwardhan, is a graduate in Ayurvedic Medicine and Surgery [B.A.M.S] [Ayurvedacharya] Working as Ayurvedic Consultant at Sangli,INDIA for last 23 years.
Alternative medicine has become a wonderful supplement to traditional western medicine in recent years. Acupuncture is now accepted as part of mainstream treatment for any number of ailments and in fact is provided by Britain’s national health service. A lesser known form of alternative treatment is an ancient Indian discipline called Ayurveda.
In Sanskrit the word for Science of life is Ayurveda and for 5,000 years it has been practiced as a way to prolong and enhance the lives of millions. Ayruveda emphasizes prevention of disease and rejuvenation of the body. The practices of longevity as they are also known have been honed by centuries of study in India and the Far East where the discipline originates.
Ayurvedic treatment is not about suppressing symptoms and in the case of some conventional medicines, creating new ones, it’s goal is to remove the root cause of disease thereby giving the sufferer permanent relief. The mind-body connection is the key to treatment and Ayurveda seeks to balance mind, body and spirit to achieve wellness. Ayurvedic practitioners believe that all things in the universe are interconnected and that all human beings contain elements found in the universe. They further believe that health is maintained if the mind and body are in harmony with the universe.
Bringing oneself back into good health and into balance with the universe can be achieved through the use of specialized diets, herbs and massage. Before embarking on an Ayurvedic regimen the seeker needs to be aware of safety concerns. It is recommended to seek the advice of an Ayurvedic medicine practitioner and to always be sure you obtain your Ayurvedic herbal medicines from a trusted source.
Alternative treatments should always be embarked upon as part of a comprehensive medical plan. The patient should always be monitored by a physician and heed the advice of his or her doctor when the safety or efficacy of an alternative treatment is called into question. The most responsible approach to good health is to maintain an open mind, keep your physician informed of what you are doing, and gather as much information as you can.
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Ayurveda, the ancient medical science of India, is accepted as the oldest scientific medical system, with a long record of clinical treatments. Apart from being a mere doctrine for medical treatment, Ayurveda shows a way to protect and maintain health, to cure diseases and to lead a healthy long life.
Ayurveda considers an individual as a combination of body, mind and soul. It believes that no two individuals are alike, and hence recommends different treatment for each individual based on their individual constitutions though they may have similar symptoms.
Ayurvedic medical system recognizes that an Absolute Source (Paramatma) is the origin of all wisdom and intelligence. Manifestation of health is the outcome of the grace of Abolute (Paramatma) acting through the laws of nature (Prakriti). Ayurveda helps in promoting harmony between the nature and the individual by helping an individual to lead a life which is in balance with the laws of nature.
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Ayurveda explains that three universal fundamental energies regulates all the natural process on microcosmic and macrocosmic levels and the effect of these energies in various star systems and galaxies will in-turn have an impact on human physiology. These universal energies are called “Tridosha”.
Meaning of Ayurveda
Ayurveda comprising of Ayur (life) and Veda (Scince or knowledge) is a holistic healing science which is in other words called “Science of life”. Ayurveda deals with the complete way of life, rather than just the treatment of diseases.
Basic principles
Ayurveda considers the humanity and universe as a common origin, and considers nature to be made of three main qualities (also called gunas). These gunas namely Sattva, Rajas and Tamas are the inner qualities found in all material forms of nature.
Ayurveda also considers the entire universe to be governed by five major elements called Panchamahabhutas which includes space, fire, water, air and earth. The entire human structure is considered to be made of Seven tissues (also known as Dhatus) which is the plasma, adipose tissue, muscle, bone marrow, bone, blood and reproductive tissue. From the liquids of all these tissues, Ojas (energy) which is the refined ultimate product of metabolism and digestion, is formed. Ojas is also considered to connect the consciousness and physiology of an individual and is responsible for developing immunity in the body.
The benefits of learning more about Ayurveda
not just a treatment, but a way of life
no known side effects
help eradicate tension
relaxes you
provides deep knowledge about you
tells about good and bad dietary effects to life
helps improve your overall health
helps to achieve – dharm, arth, kama, moksha
Ayurveda is a science and if you want to explore this subject more, get enrolled at one of the Ayurveda schools.
With the sobriquets ‘Nature’s Drugstore’ and ‘Village Pharmacy’ conferred on a herb, Neem needs no introduction. Used extensively as a major component in Ayurvedic and Unani medicinal system, Neem is used for addressing a range of skin ailments. Its extracts are widely used in Ayurveda for their anti-diabetic, anti-bacterial, anti-viral, contraceptive and sedative properties. In a Neem tree, every part is believed to have medicinal properties. The leaves, bark, seeds and flowers are all used in various medicinal preparations.
Most widely used for acquiring healthy skin, the oil and extracts of the herb are widely recommended for acne treatment and skin rashes. The leaves of the tree are also reported to remove toxins, purify blood and prevent damage caused by free radical in the body by neutralizing them. Not only is it a tonic and an astringent, Neem maintains healthy blood circulation and cleanses the body of toxins and impurities. Proper usage of the herb is known to help in achieving glowing and radiant skin. When administered on skin, Neem extracts and oil remove the redness and itching while improving the condition of the skin for the duration of the treatment. In case of pimples and acne, application of Neem kills bacteria and removes inflammation, thereby making the skin smooth and supple.
Known for more than 5000 years for its wide range of therapeutic properties, the Neem tree belongs to the plant family of Meliaceae and is indigenous to the Indian sub-continent. Also found in Sri Lanka, Burma, Bangladesh and Pakistan, Neem grows in tropical and semi-tropical regions. A fast-growing ever-green tree which grows to a height of 50-56 feet, the branches of Neem trees are widespread and have asymmetric leaflets.
Extracts of Neem bark are used for the overall healthy functioning of the body. Cool, bitter, astringent and acrid, its bark is efficacious in the treatment of common cold, fever and worm infestation. Widely recommended for its antiseptic property, Neem is beneficial for women and children for multiple reasons. Its antibacterial properties are especially effective for gum diseases and cavities. Due to its strong anti-oxidant properties, Neem protects against chemically induced carcinogens and liver damage by boosting antioxidant levels.
The Neem tree has been identified on the five-thousand-year-old seals excavated from the Indus Valley Civilization”. Believed to exorcise the demon of diseases, the Ayurvedic herb is not only used for its medicinal properties, but also worshiped in India as a deity. Known to contain nimbin, nimbinene and quercentin, the leaves of the tree help in the treatment of neuromuscular pains. The leaves of this Ayurvedic plant remove toxins, purify blood and prevent damage caused by free radical in the body by neutralizing them.
Ayurveda is a traditional Hindu form of medicine which emphasizes on yogic breathing, diet and herbal treatment.
According to Marc Halpern, natural health ayurveda worked effectively for him. It is stated that a connective tissue disarray caused him to become crippled when he was completing his degree in chiropractic medicine back in 1987. He claimed that he recovered to some extent with the help of Chinese medicine and homeopathy but the treatment was not sufficient. Then he resorted to ayurveda after finding out about it. He explained the benefits of this particular type of medicine by announcing that it reconstructed and reinstated his body which enabled him to get rid of his illness.
Each and every one of your decision is metabolized into biology i.e. causing a substance to be produced via metabolism. Those who undertake ayurveda in a balanced way wake up around sunrise, take pleasure in contribution via all the five senses and follow a diet according to their ayurveda structure. They also implement yoga and meditation. Ayurveda tells us that an individual is a combination of the three doshas which are vita, pitta and kapha. In this case, only one or two are noticeable. It is believed that an illness occurs due to an inequality in a person’s doshas.
Ayurveda states that all three doshas have different nutritional and lifestyle obligations. The matter is more complex in reality because different cultures, seasons and ages consist of doshas too. According to Lonsdorf, ‘cool’ vata is symbolized by winter while ‘hot’ pitta corresponds to summer. An increase in aging makes people become more vata.
In case of any disease which is unceasing in nature, a practitioner of ayurveda will suggest a sequence of purifying and harmonizing treatments in normal circumstances. These are known as panchakarma. It is pertinent to mention that dieting should be strictly emphasized on before, during and after panchakarma. These consist of five actions which take place in the body. It aids a person in eliminating chronic illnesses by getting rid of the toxins present in the body, developing its purposes and presenting equality into the system. Its outcomes are quite useful due to which it provides people with a better quality of life. This results in a rise in inner peace, self-assurance, comfort and energy as body waste is eradicated due to which organs work properly. Therefore the functions of the body are prevented from becoming worse.
Ayurveda is a science and if you want to explore this subject more, get enrolled at an Ayurvedic School. Visit the official website of Kerala Ayurveda Academy and get all the information required to get started.
Kerala Ayurveda tourism has becoming a huge selling point for Kerala tourism industry. State promotes Kerala Ayurveda tourism as a part of medical tourism to the world. Today popularity of Kerala Ayurvedic treatment has gained such a momentum that tourist from across the world come to Kerala to rejuvenate and for therapeutic treatment.
Ayurveda is the ancient Indian way of healing. It originated in India more than 10,000 years ago and is believed to be the oldest healing science in existence, from which all other systems emerged. Kerala is the only place in India where Ayurveda is practice in the ancient manner. As per Ayurveda specialists, the rainy season (June – August) is the best time for Ayurvedic treatments as the atmosphere remains dust free and cool, which helps open the pores of the body to the maximum.
Ayurveda believes in the treatment of not just the affected part, but the individual as a whole. Kerala Ayurvedic treatments and rejuvenation therapies are natural way to refresh you, eliminate all toxic imbalances from the body and to regain resistance and good health. Most of the Ayurvedic therapies help to strengthening the immune system, preventing and curing diseases without any side effects.
There are number of resorts and hospitals throughout state which are integral parts of Kerala Ayurveda tourism and offering customized Ayurveda holiday packages which help you to rejuvenate your body and soul and to start a fresh life. Kerala Ayurveda provides number of treatments ranging from de-stressing, anti-ageing, weight loss joint pains and general rejuvenation. Some of the popular Ayurveda destinations in Kerala for Ayurveda health tours are Trivandrum, Munnar, Thottapally, Cochin, Alleppey, Kovalam Beach, Kumarakom and Periyar. Normally Ayurveda packages tours span a time period of four days to two weeks.
To know more about Kerala ancient treatments and Kerala Ayurveda tourism visit Kerala Ayurveda tourism
Ayurveda in its real meaning is a way of life, a philosophy and a science of healing and health care. As a medicinal knowledge, it originates from two distinct dominions, folk wisdom and scientific knowledge. Tradition attributes the origin of ayurveda from the creator itself. Ayurveda is the collection of the principles of life that took birth with the world itself and is believed not liable to change at any time or in any part of the world. Although ayurveda put across antiquity, authenticity and efficacy, the tradition does not determine the source of knowledge, nor does it suggests any precise date of origin. The claimed deity of this celestial science is Lord Dhanwanthari, an incarnation of Lord Vishnu.
Vedas, the ancient Indian testimonials contain references to illness, cures and other health-related issues. The cures are both magical and medicinal. However, the references do not add up to a theory of medicine. This developed in the post -Vedic period and was presented in a compete form in the works of Caraka (author of Carakasamhita) and Susrutha (author of Susruthasamhita) probably or before 5th century B.C. Carakasamhita’s principal subject is illnesses and their cures with a stress on preventive care. Susruthasamhita is mainly a textbook on surgical practices.
The founding fathers of ayurveda as we know them today do not claim any originality as authors. Caraka states that he is only redrafting a work composed by Agnivesha who was orally instructed by the sage Atreya. Susrutha presents the text as the teachings of his teacher, King Dhanvantri. Neither of the texts has come down to us in the original form. What we have is a recension or edition of Carakasamhita by Dhridabala and Nagarjuna’s recension of Susruthasamhita. The detailed instructions in the two works indicate that a whole body of medical knowledge and practices existed in ancient India for Caraka and Susrutha to draw upon. The other great names in ayurveda are Kasyapa, Bhela and Vagbhata. Very little is known about the first two and the works their names are associated with, Kasyapasamhita and Bhelasamhita, available only in fragmentary parts. Vagbhata’s Ashtangahridayam, on the other hand, is a well-known and widely circulated text. He is said to have lived in or after 5th century A. D.
PHILOSOPHY OF AYURVEDA
Ayurveda does not see the human being as a being separate from the universe. According to Ayurveda, the universe and human beings are created with five basic constituents known as panchabhuthas, viz. akasa (space), vayu (air), tejas (light/heat or energy), jala (water), and prthivi (earthy matter). The latter contain athma in addition. Panchabhuthas have specific qualies (gunas). They are:
Two other aspects of the panchabhutas are: 1) their density increases progressively from akasha to prthivi and 2) each succeeding panchabhuta is not only characterised by its own specific quality or guna, but also contains the guna of the panchabhuta preceding it. This process of combination or panchikarna means that the specificity is diluted in four elements except akasha that is at the top of the scale. Prthivi, at the bottom of the scale, therefore has the gunas of all the elements or bhutas. The panchabhuta concept is rooted in the philosophical systems that emerged in ancient India; namely, Sankhya and Nyaya-Vaiseshika. Human beings are able to access the panchabhutas through the five senses or indriyas namely,
The sensory perception of the bhutas takes place because of the process of combination between them with indriyas.
Human body made up of panchabhutas and any part of the body, howsoever minute, is an inseparable mixture of these principles. In Ayurveda, combinations of these principles are classified into three, viz. vayu or vata, mayu or pitta and valasa or kapha for analytical and curative purpose. Of these the first is a combination of akasa and vayu, the second is tejas, and the third is a combination of prthivi and jala. These three mega-divisions of the body particles are called the tridoshas. These not only build and sustain all parts of the body but also fulfill all biological function when alive. These cannot be detected in their original form in any parts of the body. We must identify these with those parts of the body, where they predominate.
Acharyas emphasize yet another postulate regarding the structural basis of body. The human body consists of seven dhatus or body tissues. They are: rasa (chyle or limph), raktha (blood), mamsa (flesh), medas (fat), asthi (bone/cartilage), majja (marrow), and sukra (semen). The dhatus are ultimately derived from the panchabhutas. The dhatus undergo a constant process of decay that is arrested by the intake of food and drink. While the seven- dhadu principle postulates a common structural base for the human body, the tridosha doctrine explains the functional equilibrium within the human body. A body that is in disequilibrium of tridoshas, that is ill. The essence of Ayurvedic medical treatment is to restore the equilibrium within the body and bring back harmony between the inner and external worlds. The first step in treatment is to clean the body. The five cleansing processes or panchakarma are: nasya (head/nasal evacuation); vamana (emesis); virecana (purgation); rakthamoksana (blood letting); and vasti (enema). The administration of drugs is generally done (if needed) after the panchakarma treatment. Ayurvedic medicines are based on products from the vegetable, animal kingdoms and also from minerals. These products are used to create formulations based on time-tested formulae. Most of the herbal and other products used in ayurveda are now being recognised as holding the curative keys to a range of potentially dangerous illnesses.
THE GREAT TEXTS
Carakasamhita consists of 120 chapters divided into eight parts. This voluminous work deals with pharmacology, aetiology of diseases, anatomy, diagnosis and prognosis, preventive therapy, hospitals, epidemics, embryology and philosophy. Carakasamhita also states the fundamental principle of allopathy, namely treating a condition with its contrary or the opposite of the cause. Caraka says: “those who know about herbs use cold to soothe diseases caused by heat and the medicine for those diseases which are caused by cold is heat”. It is the same for other diseases too: the medicine is the opposite of the cause. Susrutasamhita mainly teaches surgery. It lists 101 types of surgical instruments but states in clear terms that the surgeon’s hand is the most important tool. Surgical tools are described in minute details with their uses and the student is taught how to take care for them. A whole chapter is on how the student can gain practical experience in surgical techniques. The qualities of a good surgeon are spelt out in detail. The 16th Chapter of Susrutasamhita is on plastic surgery: it teaches how to reshape a torn ear and also repair a severed nose by grafting skin and flesh taken from another part of the patients’ body. Kasyapasamhita and Bhelasamhitha are available to us only in fragmentary forms. Karyapasamhita is a textbook on the diseases that affect women and children and their treatment. It deals with pregnancy, pre-natal care and childbirth. Bhelasamhita is notable for the fact that unlike all earlier ayurvedic texts, it situates the mind in the brain. The ayurvedic text that has had the largest readership is Vagbhata’s Ashtangahridyam. The author does not claim originality. His stated aim is to re-synthesize in simple and clear language all the earlier ayurvedic textbooks. All that we know about Vagbhata is that he was the son of Simhagupta. The text of Ashtangahridayam is presented by the author as the technique expounded by Atreya and other sages. It is in 120 chapters divided into six sections. The first chapter begins with a salutation to Buddha and then presents in a concise form the whole of ayurvedic theory and medicine. It ends with a summary of the remaining chapters in the book. The chapters among other subjects deal with lethal points of the body (marma), causes of disease, preventive measures, treatment of diseases, materia medica, medical formulations, children’s diseases and insanity. Another great textbook is Sarangadharasamhita supposedly composed in or about 1300 AD. It is short, explains in simple terms the different measures and weights used, the various ayurvedic procedures of treatment and gives the recipes for making different medicines. Sarangadhara speaks to us directly in the text. He is the author and not a student writing down the teachings of his teacher. Very little is known of Sarangadhara except that his father’s name was Damodhara.
AYURVEDA IN KERALA
Before Sanskrit became the language of intellectual debate and the influence of the Ayurveda samhitas grew in Kerala it had its own native tradition of medicine rooted in the knowledge of Dravidian and pre-Dravidian societies. Three castes were prominent in the practice of medicine: Ezhava, Mannan and Velan. While the first practiced what can be called general medicine, the second and third were specialists in pregnancy -related issues and illnesses affecting children. In addition there were specialist practitioners in the treatment of snakebites and other poison -related illnesses who produced textbooks that are still used. The native tradition thus was a vibrant one.
Its pharmacopoeia contained medicines and formulations unknown or untested in the ayurveda samhitas. For instance, while the qualities of coconut are recognised in the Sanskrit works. It is the Malayali physician who developed various medical formulations from the coconut like the elaneerkuzhambu for the eye. Many such formulations are contained in the textbook Sahasrayogam. In physical therapy a whole science of treatment using different methods was developed. Njavarakizhi, pizhichil and dhara are part of this tradition. abhyangam or oil massage was used for medical treatment and with some difference in the training of warriors and kathakali dancers.
The Ayurveda samhitas came to Kerala with the spread of Buddhism and Jainism (5 -7th century AD). The influence of the samhitas and their importance were strengthened with the growth of namputhiri (Brahmin) settlements. Each settlement had at least one household which specialised in ayurveda. These families are known as ashtavaidyans because their members had mastered the eight (ashta) sections of the great ayurvedic texts. Today the surviving ashtavaidyan families of Kerala are: Pulamanthol, Kuttancheri, Trissur Thaikat, Elayidathyu Thaikat, Chirattamon, Vyaskara, Vellot and Alathiyur. While the members of the last ashtavaidyan family are called ‘nambi’, the others are called ‘moos’. Unlike the Brahmins in north India, the Namputhiri physicians use Vagbhata’s Ashtangahridayam as the basic text despite its Buddhist philosophical overtones.
By the 14th century the spread of Sanskrit among the non -Brahmin castes made it possible for others to read and master the contents of the ayurveda samhitas. The leaders in this were the Variers, a caste that performed specific duties in temples. The Variers proximity to the temples which were centers of learning meant that they became scholars in Sanskrit and hence the samhitas. It is the coming together of these two streams of knowledge, the samhitas and the native medical tradition, that has created what can be called the Kerala system of Ayurveda.
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Eczema is a skin disorder. The main symptoms of eczema are inflammations with redness of skin, extremely dry, itchy, brittle skin and thinness of skin. Patients complain about painful swelling, bleeding, scaling, burning sensation (when sweat) and itching.
Skin inflammations formed due to eczema lets bacteria, virus and other pathogens straight into the blood. Defensive mechanism of the skin is very weak. The inflammations flare up with stress. Eczema persons need to find ways to identify the causes of stress.
Treatments
Eczema is found in even in 12-month old children. It may appear incurable or not completely curable. Eczema can be cured with natural methods. The main herbs used in eczema cure are neem, haemafine, guggulu etc. Evening primrose, flaxseed oil and even wheat grass oil can come handy help in eczema treatment.
According to Ayurveda, skin diseases are the result of impure blood.
Panchakarma
Ayurvedic deep cleansing method, Panchakarma is a full body purification therapy. Blood letting (raktamoksha) is a method of purifying blood. This practice is not permitted in USA. It is practiced in Kerala in recognized pancha karma centers.
Blood letting is not indicated for persons with anemia, physical weakness, mental disturbances and for children and the aged.
Caring your skin
Eczema skin is very sensitive. Use only a soft on skin soap. Take bath in cold or mildly warm water, not in hot water.
Apply coconut oil or some moisturizers on the skin. This will prevent cracks.
Wear cotton gloves and socks. This will completely absorb any sweat that may form. Make sure you change it often. Don’t expose skin on hands or legs in cold winter atmosphere.
Stress can be one contributing factor to inflammations. Identify the causes of stress and stay away from them. Though it is a difficult thing to ask, don’t scratch your skin even if it itches.
Take plenty of water. Include fish, fruits and nuts in your daily diet. Eczema brings with it many difficulties. Finding a way to somehow manage the disease is essential to manage the disease and your life in general.
In the world today, people are beginning to focus more and more on ways of staying healthy. In this regard, natural ways are head over shoulders when compared to their counterparts the artificial methods. Ayurveda is a natural method of staying healthy. Alongside other benefits currently, it is one of the most sought-after remedies for becoming healthier and happier.
Ayurveda came into being about 5000 years ago which makes it the oldest type of holistic medicine still in existence today. Actually, the word Ayurveda springs from two words: ayu which stands for life and veda representing knowledge. In a nutshell therefore, Ayurveda stands for the knowledge of life and has proved effective in maintaining harmony between the body and spirit.
Those who practice Ayurveda believe that it was handed down to saints and sages which makes it of a ‘divine nature’. It was handed down from one generation to the next by word of mouth until recently when it was put down in writing. It was the avatar of Vishnu who managed to put the concept of Ayurveda into writing together with the idea of self-realization.
The principle of Ayurveda revolves around the wellbeing of the body and spirit. Once you achieve this, you will have succeeded in keeping sickness away from you. This is unlike the case with contemporary medicine which focuses on treating the symptoms instead of going to the core cause of illness, which is lack of wellness in a person. By uniting our spirit with Gods consciousness or universal power, Ayurveda seeks to bring harmony into our lives.
In order for this to work, Ayurveda makes use of five elements. These are: ether, water, air, fire and earth. These elements are also referred to as the 3 doshas: Vata, Kapha and Pitta. In simple terms, those who have managed to perfectly balance the three doshas enjoy perfect health while those who have an imbalance are prone to diseases and poor health.
In Ayurveda there are three major factors that determine the wellbeing of a person: a basic understanding of how our body functions, what relationship exists between our body and mind and finally, each person’s particular nature.
To work, Ayurvedic medicine makes use of the following: advice on the correct diet you should use, use of appropriate Ayurvedic medications, use of herbal medicines, body massage, meditation, yoga and breathing exercises. In addition, your Ayurvedic therapist may request you to either reduce stress or to increase your energy among other prescriptions. Seeing how effective Ayurveda has turned out to be, it is no wonder that it is riding the wave of success.
Ayurveda is a science and if you want to explore this subject more, get enrolled at one of the Ayurveda schools.
Ayurveda is the most popular holistic forms of medicine that has originated in India, and is now rapidly spreading around the world. Ayurveda is a combination of two Sanskrit words, ayus meaning ‘life’ and veda meaning ‘knowledge’. Hence, Ayurveda literally means ‘the knowledge of life’.
Indians believe that Ayurveda originated as a form of medicine for the gods. Even in the Ramayana (which is believed to be several millennia old), we have a reference of how Hanuman brings the Sanjivani herb to revive Lakshmana, who is mortally wounded in the battlefield at Lanka. Dhanwantari, the physician of the gods, is believed to be the one who discovered Ayurveda. Ayurveda was brought from the realms of the gods to the human race by Charaka, who wrote the Ayurvedic treatise, Charaka Samhita, which is regarded venerably even today. Sushruta later wrote a compendium of his own, Sushruta Samhita, which has several amendments over the methods detailed in the Charaka Samhita.
Principles of Ayurveda
Ayurveda is a largely herbal science. It delves into the medicinal properties of herbs and studies their effects on the human system. There are more than four thousand herbs known to Ayurveda, out of which about one thousand are very commonly used in regular prescriptions. Throughout the ages, several combinations of the herbs have been made and perfected. The herbs are also matured in several ways like roasting them in ghee, fermenting them to make wines, preparing their concentrated powder extracts, etc. Preparations are known as bhasmas, lehyas, vatis, choornas, rasas, asavas, etc. depending on how they have been prepared.
Though Ayurveda mainly deals with herbs; that is not all there is to it. Ayurveda also deals in several minerals, which it calls as dhaatus. Some dhaatu preparations are very important to the human wellbeing, for example, the Shilajit.
However, the most important aspect of Ayurveda is neither the herbs nor the minerals that it uses. The secret of the success of Ayurveda over the centuries is the regimen that it coerces its patients to do. There are several therapies that Ayurveda has devised. The most famous of these is the Panchakarma therapy. This is an elaborate five-part process which can treat almost any ailment that afflicts humans. The Panchakarma therapy is a way of purification of the body. Then there are several other therapies like Shirodhara, Basti, etc. which helps keep the body in a state of normalcy.
Ayurveda often goes hand in hand with another popular Indian technique, the yoga. Ayurvedic physicians often prescribe asanas of yoga to supplement their herbal remedies. Ayurveda also believes in several massage therapies using different kinds of oils. Aromatherapy, though a different science in itself, can be considered to be a subset of the Ayurvedic techniques. Ayurveda believes that massage can canalize the toxins to their proper destinations in the body from where they can be eliminated. In this manner, the body remains free from residual toxic substances.
Ayurveda also believes in the importance of diet. When a treatment is going on, the Ayurvedic physician will stress on the importance of the diet the person consumes. Each component is selected with care, because with any disease, there are a large number of dietary indications and contra-indications.
The Popularity of Ayurveda
Today, Ayurveda is so deeply ensconced in the minds of the Indian population that they would use its remedies without actually knowing they are making use of some Ayurvedic technique. Almost every Indian household has one tulsi plant in their courtyard. Tulsi is nothing but the holy basil tree. This plant is worshipped by the Hindus, without knowing that the high respect for the tulsi actually originates from the various medicinal properties the herb has. Tulsi is one of the five essential plants every Indian garden is supposed to have. The other four plants are neem, amalaki, bilva and palash. Today, all these five herbs have become popular all around the world for their amazing curative properties.
Herbs like brahmi, ginkgo, gotu kola, ashwagandha, yohimbe, yashtimadhu, arjuna, etc. have now gained worldwide renown. The western scientists are spending a great deal of time and research in investigating the properties of these herbs. With every test they conduct, their belief in the powers of Ayurveda is only strengthening.
Garlic, onion and ginger are today used all over the world for several medicinal reasons. It is confirmed that garlic can prove extremely beneficial in reducing cholesterol and increasing longevity. However, it was Ayurveda that was the first to bring the curative properties of these herbs in the limelight. There are several other such herbs which were given their importance by Ayurveda first. Some of them are fenugreek, licorice, betel nut, cardamom, cinnamon, cumin seeds, dandelion, lemon grass, rauwolfia, zizzyphus, etc.
The initial reticence in using a quaint Indian method of medicine is now slowly dwindling away. Several Americans and Europeans are opting to use Ayurveda instead of other invasive therapeutic methods. Ayurvedic medicines are being very widely used in the west for memory enhancement tonics, treatment of male and female sterility, breast enhancement, penis enlargement and weight loss. People who are using them vouch for their benefits.
