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Showing posts with label General Health Tips. Show all posts
Showing posts with label General Health Tips. Show all posts

Turmeric Tea - Boost your immunity Naturally !

We all need a sweet treat from time to time and this is my go to drink. It smells heavenly and is a great drink either first thing in the morning or as a treat at the end of a long day.

Health Benefits of Turmeric
     1. It is a natural antiseptic and antibacterial agent, useful in disinfecting cuts and burns.

    2. When combined with cauliflower, it has shown to prevent prostate cancer and stop the growth of existing prostate cancer.

    3. Prevented breast cancer from spreading to the lungs in mice.

    4. May prevent melanoma and cause existing melanoma cells to commit suicide.

    5. Reduces the risk of childhood leukemia.

    6. Is a natural liver detoxifier.

    7. May prevent and slow the progression of Alzheimer's disease by removing amyloyd plaque buildup in the brain.

    8. May prevent metastases from occurring in many different forms of cancer.

    9. It is a potent natural anti-inflammatory that works as well as many anti-inflammatory drugs but without the side effects.

    10. Has shown promise in slowing the progression of multiple sclerosis in mice.

    11. Is a natural painkiller and cox-2 inhibitor.

    12. May aid in fat metabolism and help in weight management.

    13. Has long been used in Chinese medicine as a treatment for depression.

    14. Because of its anti-inflammatory properties, it is a natural treatment for arthritis and rheumatoid arthritis.

    15. Boosts the effects of chemo drug paclitaxel and reduces its side effects.

    16. Promising studies are underway on the effects of turmeric on pancreatic cancer.

    17. Studies are ongoing in the positive effects of turmeric on multiple myeloma.

    18. Has been shown to stop the growth of new blood vessels in tumors.

    19. Speeds up wound healing and assists in remodeling of damaged skin.

    20. May help in the treatment of psoriasis and other inflammatory skin conditions.

According to Dr. Andrew Weil recent research on both turmeric and curcumin is very promising:

    Curcumin seems to delay liver damage that can eventually lead to cirrhosis, according to preliminary experimental research at the Medical University Graz in Austria.

    Kansas State University research found that adding certain spices, including turmeric, can reduce the levels of heterocyclic amines -- carcinogenic compounds that are formed when meats are barbecued, boiled or fried -- by up to 40 percent.

    Rodent studies at the University of Texas indicate that curcumin inhibits the growth of a skin cancer, melanoma and also slows the spread of breast cancer into the lungs.
    Researchers from the University of South Dakota have found that pretreatment with curcumin makes cancer cells more vulnerable to chemo and radiotherapy.

    Epidemiologists have hypothesized that the turmeric that is part of daily curries eaten in India may help explain the low rate of Alzheimer's disease in that country. Among people aged 70 to 79, the rate is less than one-quarter that of the United States.

    And at least one new study suggests curcumin's value for arthritis treatment. Since arthritis is so common and the results so interesting, it's worth a closer look.

Makes you want to make some tea doesn't it?

Turmeric Tea

Ingredients:

    1 cup Coconut Milk (or almond)
    ½ tspn Cinnamon
    ½ tspn Turmeric
    1/8 tspn Nutmeg
    Dash of Cayenne Pepper
    Raw honey to taste

Instructions:

Put coconut milk, spices and honey in a sauce pan heat up slowly on low heat. If you put it on high heat the coconut milk will get too thick. Pour and enjoy.

Cure Allergies Naturally !!


I sailed through my childhood and early twenties blissfully unaware of the realities of allergies. Actually I was quite unsympathetic to allergy sufferers, obviously quite ignorant, I thought they were just being wimpy. As karma would have it I was struck with severe allergies in my thirties. So severe that I would have attacks that left me unable to function simply because I was sneezing every 3-5 seconds for hours at a time. Needless to say I was humbled and my arrogance was tempered by circumstances. Lesson learned!

Below are my top go to solutions for allergies.

Nettle Tea- nettle leaf is a natural antihistamine that can be very effective in treating allergies as it naturally blocks the body's ability to produce histamine. To make sure you get enough of the medicinal oils, pour boiling water over the tea bag and cover the cup for 15 minutes to let the oils seep in before drinking.

Quercitin- "There is even some evidence that quercetin may control the release of histamine and other chemicals that help initiate the allergic response," says Dillard, clinical advisor to Columbia University's Rosenthal Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine, and assistant clinical professor at Columbia University College of Physicians and Surgeons.

This potent antioxidant flavonoid comes from buckwheat, citrus or eucalyptus. According to Earl L. Mindell and Virginia Hopkins, authors of "Prescription Drugs and Their Natural Alternatives," quercetin is very effective in preventing allergy symptoms.In a 2009 study published in the "International Journal of Allergy and Immunology," quercetin effectively reduced allergy symptoms such as itchy eyes, nasal and ear congestion and runny eyes(4).

Butterbur- In one study, published recently in the British Medical Journal, a group of Swiss researchers showed how just one tablet of butterbur extract (Ze 339) four times daily was as effective as a popular antihistamine drug in controlling symptoms of hay fever -- without the traditional symptom of drowsiness that sometimes occurs. In a second study, presented at the 60th annual meeting of the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology (AAAAI), a group of British researchers put their stamp of approval on butterbur's effectiveness in quelling symptoms of grass allergy(1)

Saline Nasal Rinse- This is one remedy that both Eastern and Western docs (like your allergist) will likely agree on. Basically all you're doing is flushing out your sinuses with a saltwater solution, which can help wash away allergens and irritants. To do it, grab a Neti Pot or a large squeeze bottle, like the one made by NeilMed, and fill it with a premixed packet of saline solution (available at drugstores) or make your own solution. To mix it yourself, combine 1 quart of distilled or boiled (then cooled) water; 2 to 3 tsp non-iodized salt (kosher, pickling, canning or sea salt); and 1 tsp baking soda. Put about 8 oz at a time in the Neti Pot or squeeze bottle and tilt your head forward over the sink while you pour/squeeze the solution in one nostril and let it drain out the other(2).

Probiotics - Allergies are the result of an imbalance in the immune system that causes the body to react too strongly to a stimuli. New research links the presence of beneficial bacteria in the gut with reduced incidence of allergies (3).
Allergies don't have to control your life the key is to catch them before they take hold - a healthy diet supplemented with probiotics should keep them at bay. If none of these treatments work for you it's likely that your allergies are due to an unhealthy gut

Control High Blood Pressure with Celery

High blood pressure is a problem for many people; in fact, in America around 76.4 million adults suffer from high blood pressure, the American Heart Association notes. High blood pressure can greatly increase your risk for a life-threatening stroke or heart attack.

Celery juice contains the compound 3-n-butylphtalide, or phthalide, which contributes to the vegetable's taste and aroma. As a chemical affecting the body, phthalide helps relax the smooth muscles in the walls of the blood vessels, according to High Blood Pressure Info. Blood pressure decreases as the blood vessels dilate and allow blood to flow easier and more freely(2).
Celery Juice Recommendations
Using the recommended Oriental dosages to lower mild cases of high blood pressure, one would eat about four ounces of celery (about a cup of chopped celery) daily. You should begin to see results after only a week or two.

Some of the health benefits of celery juice:
Acidity: The important minerals in this magical juice effectively balance the body's blood pH, neutralizing acidity.
Athletes: Celery juice acts as the perfect post-workout tonic as it replaces lost electrolytes and rehydrates the body with its rich minerals.
Cancer: Celery is known to contain at least eight families of anti-cancer compounds. Among them are the acetylenics that have been shown to stop the growth of tumor cells. Phenolic acids which block the action of prostaglandins that encourage the growth of tumor cells. And coumarins which help prevent free radicals from damaging cells.
Cholesterol: This humble pale juice has been shown to effectively and significantly lower total cholesterol and LDL (bad) cholesterol.
Colon and stomach cancer: The phytochemical coumarins prevent the formation and development of the colon and stomach cancers.
Constipation: The natural laxative effect of celery helps to relieve constipation. It also helps relax nerves that have been overworked by man-made laxatives.
Diuretic: The potassium and sodium in celery juice helps to regulate body fluid and stimulate urine production, making it an important help to rid the body of excess fluid.
Inflammation: The polyacetylene in celery is an amazing relief for all inflammation like rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis, gout, asthma and bronchitis.
Kidney function: Celery promotes healthy and normal kidney function by aiding elimination of toxins from the body. While eliminating toxins, it also prevents formation of kidney stones.
Lower blood pressure: Drinking celery juice every day for a week significantly helps lower blood pressure. A compound called phtalides help relax the muscle around arteries, dilating the vessels and allowing blood to flow normally. To be effective, drink the juice for one week, stop for three weeks, and start over.
Nervous system: The organic alkaline minerals in celery juice has a calming effect on the nervous system, making it a wonderful drink for insomniacs.
Weight loss: Drink celery juice frequently throughout the day. It helps curb your cravings for sweets and rich food.
Urinary stones, breaking of: The diuretic effect of celery juice also aids the breaking and elimination of urinary and gall bladder stones(1)
Reducing Stress Hormones: Phthalide also helps decrease the production of catecholamines, according to research by clinical pharmacologist William J. Elliot and medical student Quang T. Le, documented at High Blood Pressure Info. Catecholamines are the fight-or-flight hormones that the adrenal glands produce in events of stress. They can contribute to high blood pressure.
Stress hormones such as catecholamines can tighten blood vessels and restrict the free flow of blood, increasing the amount of pressure necessary for the heart to pump blood throughout the body. Phthalide blocks the action of tyrosine hydroxylase enzymes that produce stress hormones and contribute to high blood pressure, according to High Blood Pressure Info.

Additional lifestyle changes that will help lower your blood pressure: 1. Change your diet and reduce your weight if you are overweight.
2. Consider a vegetarian or semi-vegetarian diet. Vegetarians show very little signs of hypertension. You don't have to become a vegetarian, but adding more vegetables and complex carbohydrates to your diet as well as reducing your sodium intake will help reduce your blood pressure. And recent research indicates that eating more celery is beneficial in controlling hypertension. Keep in mind, though that celery can be toxic in great quantities.
3. Add fiber to your diet. A high fiber diet promotes healthy blood pressure.
4. Reduce or eliminate your alcohol intake.
5. Lower your fat intake.
6. Start an exercise program. Even half an hour of exercise can significantly impact your hypertension.
7. Add meditation or yoga to your daily routine.
8. Get a massage. Therapeutic massage can provide an important component to overall well-being by promoting better sleep, improving concentration, and reducing anxiety.
9. Consider pet therapy. A study at the University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine, showed that pet owners had significantly lower blood pressure when they were greeting their pet than when they were reading neutral text.
10. Consider Naturopathy as a way of life. Naturopathy focuses on the body's ability to heal itself. Naturopathy relies on a variety of techniques founded in ancient Indian, Chinese and Greek medicine. These include relaxation therapy, counseling and psychotherapy,herbal medicine, nutrition counseling, physical therapy and homeopathy.
11. Do not smoke.
Living an active, healthy life can considerably lower your blood pressure and eliminate your need for pharmacological intervention.

Food to eat during menstrual periods.


Most women experience symptoms of bloating, fatigue, cramps, headache, digestive problems and mood swings before and during their menstrual cycle. One of the best ways to prevent and treat these symptoms is via a healthy diet, which can also aid general health and overall well-being.

Beans
The high fiber content of beans and peas reduces the congestive symptoms of cramps by producing bulkier stools with higher water content. This rids the body of excess fluid and also normalizes digestion, reducing both constipation and diarrhea, according to Dr. Susan Lark, director of the PMS Self-Help Center in Los Altos, California, and author of "Dr. Susan Lark's Menstrual Cramps Self Help Book." Legumes are also a good source of B vitamins, which prevent cramps and menstrual fatigue. Although beans can create excess gas, this can be minimized by eating small amounts and increasing slowly, or by taking a digestive enzyme like Beano.

Green Vegetables
Green vegetables are high in calcium, magnesium and potassium, which relieve and prevent the spasms that lead to cramping pain. Lark also adds that these minerals can calm and relax emotions, reducing irritability. Dark green vegetables also contain high amounts of vitamin K, which is needed to coagulate blood and prevent excess bleeding.

Omega-3 Fatty Acids
A group of hormone-like substances in the body called prostaglandins are involved in muscle contractions and menstrual pain. One way to shut down the prostaglandin effect is by consuming omega-3 fatty acids like those contained in salmon, walnuts and flaxseed. A 1995 study in the "European Journal of Clinical Nutrition" found that women whose diets are balanced in favor of omega-3s, rather than other fats, tend to have milder menstrual symptoms.

Pineapple
A report from Dr. Phyllis Johnson, of the U.S. Department of Agriculture's Human Nutrition Center in Grand Forks, North Dakota, found that young women who consumed low amounts of manganese had an increased menstrual flow of up to 50 percent, leading Johnson to recommend that women with menstrual discomfort increase their manganese consumption. Fruits are high in manganese, but one of the richest manganese food sources is pineapple. Pineapple also contains high levels of bromelain, an enzyme thought to help relax muscles and therefore prevent menstrual cramping.

Tea
Tea is another source of manganese, according to Johnson, although women should avoid the caffeinated version, which can actually lead to greater menstrual discomfort. Ginger tea may be helpful in relieving nausea and bloating, and chamomile tea also contains properties that relieve muscle spasms and reduce the tension that can lead to anxiety and irritability.

Water
Excessive fluid retention is one of the main causes of congestive symptoms seen with cramps, which are characterized by dull, aching pain. One of the very best ways to help decrease water retention, even though it may seem counterintuitive, is to increase water consumption--if a woman isn't drinking enough, her body may overcompensate by retaining extra water.

Whole Grains
A study by British doctors found that eating small amounts of carbohydrates every three hours and within one hour of going to bed combated PMS symptoms in 70 percent of women. Dr. Lark adds that whole grains are excellent sources of magnesium, which reduces neuromuscular tension. Whole grains also have B-complex vitamins and vitamin E to combat fatigue and depression.

Yogurt
Yogurt contains live and active cultures of bacteria that promote a healthy digestion. Yogurt is also a good source of calcium, and getting twice as much calcium as an average women consumes on a daily basis, 1,300 milligrams instead of 600, seems to alleviate menstrual discomfort, according to James G. Penland, Ph.D., a psychologist at the Department of Agriculture. However, since meat and dairy products contain arachidonic acids, which increase the production of cramp-causing prostaglandins, women may prefer to choose nondairy forms of calcium such as broccoli, kale, canned salmon with bones and calcium-fortified foods like cereals and juices.

Are you a Vata predominant person


The below are be a couple of of the common qualities associated with people that possess a predominantly Vata constitution.


-Creative imagination, mental quickness
-Exceptionally imaginative
-Fast to understand and learn, and fast to forget
-Quick to turn on but quicky satisfied and with poor stamina
-thin; least heavy of the three constitution types
-Speak and even walk quickly, often taking quick steps.
-cold hands and feet, uncomfortableness in chilly climates
-Excitable,chattery, active, entertaining disposition
-unstable- quickly changing moods
-Unpredictable daily schedule
-Changing desires for food as well as digestive effectiveness
-Excessive energy in brief bursts; inclination to fatigue quickly as well as to wear themselves out.
-Exudes joy and passion whenever in harmony
-React to pressure with fearfulness, worry, and stress and anxiety, particularly whenever out of sense of balance
-Propensity to be impulsive
-Frequently have rushing,disjointed thoughts
-Dry skin and dried out hair and don't perspire. Dry Colon too for that matter, which leads to constant constipation.
-Common health challenges include things like head aches, high blood pressure, dry coughs, sore throats, ear ache, nervousness, arrythmia in the heart, muscle spasms, lower spinal pain, constipation,bowel irregularity, flatulence, looseness of the bowels, nervous stomach, monthly period cramps, premature ejaculation and impotence, frigidity, arthritis. The majority of nerve related issues tend to be associated with Vata imbalance.

Physical Features

Individuals with vata constitution are frequently physically not developed. Their chests tend to be flat and their blood vessels together with muscle tendons are usually noticeable. The color of the skin is darkish, the body is normally cool, rough and hard, dry looking and cracked.

Vata persons typically seem to be either too tall or too short, with lean bone structure that exposes prominent visible joints and bones due to low muscle development. The hair is normally curly as well as scanty, any eyelashes are little and the eyes lusterless. Typically the eyes could possibly be sunken, little, dry looking, as well as lively. Often the fingernails are generally rough and fragile. Usually the structure of the nose is bent.

Body Functions:, hunger as well as digestion tend to be varied. Vata individuals enjoy sweet, sour and salty flavors and also enjoy warm beverages. The output of urine is sparse and the fecal material is usually dry, hard and small in quantity(think rabbit). Lower perspiration than other constitutional types. Their slumber is disturbed & resless and they will tend to sleep less than other types.

Psychologically, Learn fast forget fast. Understanding comes quickly. Low willpower, have a tendency towards psychological lack of stability and have little tolerance, self-confidence or courage. Their thought power is weak and these individuals tend to be nervous,anxious, fearful and afflicted by too much worry.

Vata people earn money quickly and spend it quickly. ergo, they tend to remain poor.

Multiple Sclerosis (MS) and Ayurveda treatment


MS is a progressive, chronic, degenerative illness that affects the nerve fibers in the brain and spinal cord. This is expressed as intermittent damage to myelin - a fatty substance that surrounds and insulates nerve fibers and facilitates the conduction of nerve impulse transmissions - caused by the destruction of specialized cells that form the myelin.
This causes scarring and hardening (sclerosis) of nerve fibers usually in the spinal cord, brain stem, and optic nerves -which slows nerve impulses and results in weakness, numbness, pain, and vision loss.

Symptoms
MS often expresses by affecting different nerves at different times, improving in one place to appear elsewhere.
Symptoms include weakness, vision disturbance, Motor disturbance, sensory disturbance, Pain,loss of coordination and dizziness, Bowel, Bladder and Sexual Symptoms, sleep disorders ,cognitive disorders and many more

Managing MS with Ayurveda

In ayurveda we like to avoid characterizing or placing a label to a person, sometimes this can become a form of ego identification in which a patient can identify with the disease in order to define themselves, this often can become a barrier to wellness. So weather you have the illness or not, the first thing you need to work on is not define or identify yourself with the illness.
Treatment of MS according to Ayurveda would be a long basis of treatment aimed at allaying the state and halting the progress of the illness, in addition a total rebalancing of the body and bringing it back to health would be essential.

The illness results in an autoimmune situation that often compromises the patients health, making them susceptible to easy infection.

There is strong evidence to suggest that a this illness is at least a good deal partly due to chronic depletion of a substance in ayurveda called Ojas, for those of you familiar with traditional Chinese medicine, - this would equate to Jing in addition it would seem that cross dosha aggravation is also at play –Vata Pitta and Kapha all disturbed, the primary aggravator would be Vata- these are the symptoms of Vata Aggravation:
• insomnia
• pain
• headaches
• constipation
• anxiety, worry and fear
• fatigue
• dry or rough skin
• poor digestion
• underweight
• heightened sensitivity

Ms seems to be a combination of toxic load(ama) poor digestion –and the presence of accumulated stress all leading to a general decline in immune response and functioning.
Ojas on its own is a massive subject but I will briefly touch upon this sublime ayurveda concept.
“Ojas is a Sanskrit word which literally means "vigor or Shakti which means Energy". According to the principles of Ayurveda , it is the essential energy of the body and when sufficient it is equated with immunity and, when deficient, results in weakness, fatigue, immune system related disorders like cancer, Crohns disease, HIV, Sarcoidosis, Multiple Sclerosis and Rheumatoid Arthritis.” Ojas is both the gateway and the container. It is the gateway between consciousness and physiology, between spiritual and material. As the subtlest physical, it is a container. It contains the flow of cosmic energy (Prana) which is the life energy that performs respiration, oxygenation, and circulation. All motor and sensory functions are linked to prana from Atman through the individual.

Ojas is the first material expression of consciousness. It is both manifest and unmanifest. It pervades the body.”

Ojas is a refined essence(fluid) it is the material basis for all life. It influences our genetic constitution, vitality, power of presence-the power of our life and willpower, reproduction, growth and development, Spiritual attainment and longevity. It is the foundation for the production of Prana/Chi(Vital energy) and responsible for nurturing of the nerve tissues(brain,nerves,marrow etc)

Called essence, it is a mixture of sexual fluids(semen, menstrual fluid, vaginal excretions, saliva) sex hormones, hormones, adrenals, and biochemical fluids. Ojas is found all over the body but accumulates in all the organs but most particularly the kidney organ where it is concentrated in the greatest amount

It nourishes the entire body (it has to do with growth and development)with vitality,– by stabilizing and preventing its loss, the cultivator aims to convert Ojas to Vital energy which will have the effect of stimulating health and spiritual development.

Ojas most closely affects immunity, mental health ,vitality, Life power, personal power, and directly affects longevity particularly with regard to the vital energy form of jing.

In laymans terms Ojas would best be described as the biochemical nutritive component that nurtures your immune system, Mind/nerves and reproductive system, and bones(in fact it affects Everything but primarily those systems)-it is the most refined of your tissues, the most subtle expression of your bodys physical nature and its interface with consciousness itself, it is expressed partly as reproductive fluid in fact building up your level of Ojas is necessary in order to attain enlightenment or spiritual realization.

In MS it would seem that the ojas is depleted through various processes, in addition there is a build up of toxins, (because we often see marked improvement for MS sufferers when they detoxify, And a disturbance of their constitutional makeup.

The strength of Ayurveda in treating neurological disorders is globally appreciated. Since it addresses the root cause of the issue the results are excellent.

Ms effect on nerves

Treatment would involve stress reduction therapies and practices: Meditation would be primary, and should be practiced twice daily, in addition yoga and breathing therapy(pranayam) or qigong would greatly benefit the person.

1. Establish a healthy routine – and stick to it- a variable routine of eating and sleeping odd hours and eating variable amounts and meals will seriously compromise the persons ability to heal. Have 3 meals a day and get to sleep by 10 pm (if you battle with sleeping – exercise more during the day, try break a sweat. And take ½ teaspoon nutmeg 30 mins before bed)

2. Detoxify the system- using a gentle and rejuvenative herb mix like triphala will provide good results without too much shock to the system. It has been shown that detoxification is crucial to MS treatment and the body responds better to the herbs after it has shed its toxic “load”.

3. Yogharaj Guggulu – is a nervous system tonic as well as a digestive stimulant, this compound is almost always recommended for MS.- it is a Powerful Anti oxidant and immune stimulant. – it has detoxifying and laxative properties while calming the entire system.

4. Improve the digestive power with the aid of herbs (Musta)

5. Help the Nervous system with Nutritive nervines that stimulate the production of Ojas at the same time:

a. Ashwaghanda,jatamamsi,vacha and Brahmi
b. Shankpushpi (Clitoria ternatea)
Properties and Uses: Commonly known as the "Butterfly Pea," Shankpushpi is used traditionally to treat nervous debility, insomnia, fatigue, low energy level.

6. Ojas stimulants: Shatavari, Gokshura and Musta
a. Musta (Cyperus rotunda)

b. Properties and Uses: According to Ayurvedic tradition, Musta rhizome is a pungent, bitter, astringent, with carminative, stimulating, and alterative properties. It is also an emmenagogue, antihelmintic, antispasmodic, diaphoretic, vermifuge, demulcent, diuretic, and a galactagogue when applied externally. it is used to treat menstrual disorders, where it acts as a regulator in conditions such as dysmenorrhea, PMS emotionality, menstrual pain, and pre-menstrual congestion of blood and water. It is additionally used to treat menopause, palpitations, gastrointestinal yeast and candida, parasites, sluggish liver, indigestion, dysentery, loss of appetite, chronic fevers, gastritis, poor memory, . Musta is one of the best digestive stimulants for "Pitta" types and conditions, and it imporves absorption in the small intestine, making it invaluable in the treatment of chronic diarrhea and malabsorption.

7. Daily Massage with Sesame seed oil, this will help to balance one of the primary agitators in the constitution(vata) it can be expensive to seek professional massage all the time, it may be wise to get a family member to help or to do self massage)

8. Supplements that may also help would be omega 3 supplementation, and vitamin e.

9. Shirodhara with potentiated oils(therapeutic oil pouring on the forehead, this is deeply relaxing to the CNS and profoundly rejuvenating. this plus all the above recommendations would go a long way to helping arrest the progression of MS and slowly reverse it.

10. Include daily consumption of pumpkin seed, and almonds.
.
Things to avoid:
• Gluten containing products ie bread, flour, oats etc – replace with basmati rice as a grain.
• Coffee
• Alcohol
• Refined sugar
• Margarine or other butter substitutes (replace with Ghee)
• Normal unorganic dairy- as milk contains antibiotics and growth stimulating Rgbh hormone which has been linked to increase of breast cancer.

to know more about Ayurveda treatments for MS,please  contact us at  info@ayurwellness.in

Natural foods to control and beat Cholesterol




1. Spinach : They are rich in lutein which guards against age-related degenerative problems. Regular intake 

protects the walls of artery and eliminates cholesterol aggrevating factors.

2. Garlic : Daily intake with diet has proved to be an excellent home remedy to manage increased 

Cholesterol level. It also reduces Bad Cholesterol and increases Good Cholesterol in body.

3. Kidney Beans : Beans, Kidney Beans etc are rich in protein and fiber. They Help in increasing good cholesterol, lowers bad cholesterol and maintains healthy Cardiovascular system.

4. Dry Fruits (Walnuts, Cashew and Almonds) : Walnuts are rich in Omega 3 fatty acids which is Cardiac protective. They lower triglyceride and LDL but increases good cholesterol in the body. 

Cashew nuts are very low in fat content but rich in Cardiac healthy monosaturated fats. They lower triglyceride and cholesterol level in the body. They also have antioxidant properties and are rich in Magnesium so lower blood pressure and prevent the risk of Heart attack. 
Almonds are rich in minerals ike Iron, Copper, Phosphorus and Vitamin B1 etc. They are Cardio protective, increases Haemoglobin and lower Cholesterol. 

Regular and daily intake of about 3-6 of each of these nuts are good to manage Cholesterol level. 

5. Curry leaves : Used in various Siddha Medicine, Curry leaves is one of the important and known Kitchen herbs. It should be included in daily diet as it lowers the level of increased Triglyceride & Bad Cholesterol. Consuming 8 to 10 curry leaves daily is very helpful to lower increased Cholesterol level.

6. Whole grain : Whole wheat, Brown rice, Oats that comes under the category whole grain is very important in Cholesterol management. As these are low in saturated fat and Cholesterol, they help in lowering total Cholesterol level. Rich in fibre & low in Sodium, whole grain proves to manage Blood pressure & Cardiac problems.

Include these foods in diet and keep your heart young and healthy

Ayurveda Tips to Gain Weight Naturally


While most of our patients and clients approach us to reduce their weight and for treating complaints associated with Obesity,but we also get Clients who come for Gaining weight too. Sometimes it is much more difficult to gain weight than reducing it, and the solution is not to merely eat more food. The types of foods you consume have a direct effect on mood, energy, and overall health, so be sure you are making wise choices. You want to enhance lean muscle mass, not your fat cells.

You will need to up your calorie intake in order to put on weight, but you must use caution. Simply eating more high-calorie junk foods such as ice-cream, fried foods, and candies will only drain your energy and make you feel awful, not to mention contribute to heart disease and diabetes. The objective is to choose higher calorie foods with the most nutrients. Avocados, raw nuts and seeds, nut-butters, dried fruits, and whole grains can give you increase in weight.

Causes for a Lean Body Nature:

1.Inheritance:
It may be due to the genes. Parents or one of the parent has the nature of not gaining weight even though the person involves in any type of food habits or regimen. So this will be inherited by the offspring also.

2.Absorption:
There may be some problem because of which the person’s intestine may not be able to absorb the essential materials or end products of digestion which in turn results in malnourishment  thus leading to underweight.

3.Digestive problems:
The individual may not be in the state of having enough food due to some causes like for eg- some get indigestion if they have even a little extra food, or may be suffering from irritable bowel syndrome, or colitis or something like that. The person may not be involving with correct habits or exercises to get the food digested well, assimilated and the good part of the end product of digestion to be absorbed to meet the body needs.

4.Lack of Knowledge:
The person may be unaware about the proper quantity or proportion of various component of food what he has to consume. Like the vegetables which he has to take about half the portion of his meal, then fats and carbs together about 1/4 part of his diet, proteins and vitamins to ¼  th part of his meal. Thus it goes on. We generally say this as stomach may be divided to 3 parts and - 1/3rd of it must be filled with solid food, - another  1/3  rd must be filled with liquid particals
- last 1/3 rd must be left vacant for the air to circulate and aid the digestion.

5.Low Hb% in the body:

If a person is anemic also then won’t gain weight.so boost up your Hb%

6.Unkown cause:
Here no matter what ever the person does, there are no problems of digestion absorption or malnourishment but the individual remains thin but active and healthy. This can be called as his inborn constitution and does not create any problem to the person

Tips to gain weight for skinny guys.


1. Track Calories. Skinny guys often overestimate what they eat. Read the labels, use a food scale and track your daily caloric intake. You need at least your body-weight in lbs x 20kcal daily to gain weight.

A rule of thumb is at least 1kg for each cm above 1m (use this converter). Anything less you'll always look skinny. There's no upper limit, if you want to weigh more go for it. Examples of minimum goal weights:

1m70/5'7" at least 70kg/154lbs
1m75/5'9" at least 75kg/165lbs
1m80/5'11" at least 80kg/176lbs
1m85/6'1" at least 85kg/187lbs
1m90/6'3" at least 90kg/200lbs

2. Eat Every 3 Hours. You need at least your body-weight in lbs x 20 kcal to gain weight. That's 2700kcal/day if you're 135lbs. If you have a physical job or move a lot, you'll need even more. Eat every 3 hours.

Breakfast. Get calories from the first hour. Read how to build the habit of eating breakfast and try these breakfast recipes.
Lunch & Diner. Prepare double portions while making breakfast. 1 portion for work/school, 1 portion when you get back.
Snacks. Mixed nuts, fruits, dried fruits, yogurt, cottage cheese, eggs, sandwiches, milk, protein shakes, ...
Post Workout. Physical activities burn calories. Eat post workout to get that energy back. Check this post workout shake recipe.

3. Eat Calorie Dense Foods. 100g raw rice is 380kcals. 100g raw spinach is only 25kcals. Getting your daily calorie intake is easier if you eat foods high in calories. Your best options:

Pasta. 100g pasta is 380kcal and easier to ingest than 100g rice. Whole grain pasta is healthier, but takes longer to digest. Eat white pasta.
Whole Milk. If you don't bother gaining some fat, drink 1 gallon whole milk per day on top of your current food intake. I've seen guys gaining 60lbs/year drinking 1 gallon per milk per day while Squatting 3x/week.
Nuts. Mixed nuts & natural peanut butter have +500kcal/100g, about 50% healthy fats and 25% protein. Use mixed nuts as snack & throw peanut butter on sandwiches for work/school.
Olive Oil. Protects against heart diseases & cancer. Sip it like vodka (it's not that bad, really) or use it for tomato pasta sauce. 1tbsp is 100kcal.
Juices  If you are not in the mood for big meals or frequent feedings, creating drinks in the blender is the way to go. You can easily down several hundred calories in a few minutes while at the same time providing your body with a hefty dose of whole-food nutrients.
Try this: Frozen bananas, a few spoonfuls of peanut butter, a couple of medjool dates, and unsweetened vanilla soymilk. Or mix up frozen strawberries, fresh mangos, brazil nuts, medjool dates, and unsweetened almond milk. If you are craving extra protein, toss in some hemp protein powder.


4. If You Don't Already Exercise, Start Doing So
You want to go from skinny to muscular, not from skinny to chubby. Get into strength training. More strength is more muscle. Physical activity can help induce hunger signals in your body, therefore encouraging you to eat more. After using energy for workouts, it only follows that you will need to replenish with food. Exercise is catabolic, meaning that tissue is being broken down. What builds it back up is the nutrition you put into your body. Think of your food as fuel. If you eat junk, your body will have difficulty using it to build and repair itself. If you eat wholesome, natural foods that are designed by nature rather than produced in factories, your body benefit significantly.

Attempting to put weight on can be just as tough as trying to lose it. Remember to make sure you are feeding your body high-quality foods with which to build itself. And no, you do not need massive amounts of meat or protein powders to put on muscle. That is an old nutrition myth that refuses to die. Consider some of the largest, strongest animals like elephants, horses, and cows, all of who subsist on vegetation. Stick to eating mostly whole plant foods, keep your body active, and you will look amazing, feel incredible, and achieve your goal weight.

Some tips keep in mind while doing exercise.

(i)Free Weights. Force you to stabilize the weight and allow for natural motions. Start light, focus on technique and add weight progressively.
(ii)Compound Exercises. Do exercises that work your whole body. Squats, Deadlifts, Overhead Press, Bench Press, Pull-ups, Dips, Barbell Row, ...
(iii)Squat. Leg exercise stressing your whole body. When you can Squat 1.5x your body-weight for 1 rep, you'll no longer be skinny. Squat often.
(iv)Rest. Muscle grow when you rest, not when you work out. Don't train daily. Sleep, drink 1 gallon water daily and eat fruits/veggies.



Ayurveda and Natural Methods to gain weight:

Now you might have already tried many home remedies or medicine for this problem of underweight or lean body nature. But here are some easy and simple remedies which we have seen good results with our patients and other clients.
 You must first record your weight before starting this and record weekly on a particular day of a week for a month.

1. Home remedies direct from your kitchen:-

1]- Take 1tbsp of ghee and add 1tbsp of sugar to it mix and lick this mixture little by little in empty stomach just before lunch and dinner .and then after 30 mins you can have your meals.
- Continue this for at least a month to see the benefits.

2]- Make a habit of consuming one well ripen banana with a cup of warm milk with 1 tsp of ghee mixed or stirred into it with little sugar .Here sugar is for taste.

3]- Make a habit of eating food in little quantity for every 2 hrs. Here we don’t mean junk food .May be fruits, vegetables, juices, dry fruits etc.

4]-Always eat well balanced food, which includes all the essential components including good fats also.

5]-Drink water after you meal at least 1 cup full. This will help for better digestion and also to gain weight.

6]- Boost up your appetite by working out daily for atleast 30 mins.May be brisk walk, or just a little bit of walking, dancing etc.

7]-Make a habit of taking a light nap after afternoon meal for about 30 mins to 1 hr. This will also help to gain weight. Try to get sound and good amount of sleep at nights too.

8]- Try to remain calm and happy. This contentment is really required because this is always related to mind .Body and mind are interlinked...So well balanced state of body with mind is called as a healthy condition or the man is called healthy.

9]-Eat soaked dry grapes or dates soaked in warm milk overnight .This should be taken empty stomach. It will also increase the Hb% .Thus you can get rid of Anemia with these methods.


2. Now coming down to Ayurveda medicines:-

1. Khushmanda avaleha - 1 tsp twice daily with a cup of warm milk before bed and early in the morning empty stomach has a wonderful result. This should be done at least for a month. This will also increase the hemoglobin percentage in the blood

2..Ashwagandhavaleha-This one more type of Avaleha which helps as a general tonic and given even better results in men. May be taken with warm water or milk.

3.Chavanprash-This is also a very good leha. Method of intake is same as other. It has many dry fruits, amla[gooseberry and many medicinal roots].Best for emaciation caused as a result of some chronic diseases.

5.Draksharista- 3tsp of this should be taken with equal amount of boiled and cooled water with a drop of honey thrice a day for atleast 1 month.

6.Ashwaganda choorna may be taken with ghee or honey or even milk thrice daily .

There are also various Ayurveda massages which will help you gain weight. These are done with special variety of rice mixed with herbs.

These medicines are for your knowledge only.
 Do not take it without an Ayurveda doctor’s advice. For more information on these medicines and other details on gaining weight  mail us at info@ayurwellness.in to discuss with our panel of doctors.

Top enemies of your Teeth


When it comes to dental care, every lay man knows that chocolates and sweets are harmful for teeth. It not only damages the tooth enamel but also discolors the teeth and invites serious dental diseases. Mentioned here are the top five edibles that are actually the worst enemies of your shiny smile and can render dangerous issues for your denture.

1. Carbonated Drinks
Carbonated drinks or soft drinks are generally loaded with sugar. This sugar content is dangerous for the tooth enamel as it promotes plaque formation. Apart from that, carbonated drinks have acidic content too, which is again extremely harmful as they can damage teeth.

2. Citrus Fruit
Citrus fruits do not pose any damage to teeth if consumed in moderation but a regular consumption of citrus fruits can damage the tooth enamel. It is so because citrus fruits are rich in natural acids which can lead to erosion and softening of tooth enamel thus, rendering the teeth weak and unhealthy. People who are fond of oranges and tangerines are advised to use mouthwash after eating such fruits. Drinking orange juice with straw can also be a good option.

3. Tea and Coffee
In case you are fond of black tea or black coffee, its imperative for you to pay extra attention towards the color of your teeth. Excessive consumption of coffee and black tea stand next to tobacco smoking as major causes of tooth discoloration, straining and tooth darkening. It is wise to give up on black tea and coffee but if you can't, then it is advised to add some amount of milk in your daily cup of tea or coffee. Milk is said to neutralize the negative effects of tannins on the outer teeth.


4. Wine
In the dental world, wine is quite an interesting topic that renders both- positive as well as negative effects on our dental health. Red wine is a natural antiseptic which can help decrease the risk of plaque formation and prevents tooth decay too. But, at the same time, wine is also found to be rich in acids and sugars which end up in damaging the tooth enamel. Moreover, regular intake of wine can also lead to tooth staining. Thus, it is advised to drink plenty of water to get rid of harmful components from the teeth.

5. Diet Pills
Diet pills at times lead to reduced production of saliva by the glands resulting in dry mouth. Dry mouth promotes the growth of bacteria and plaque hence, resulting in tooth decay. It is better to aim for weight loss through healthy and balanced diet rather than artificial things like diet pills.

Herbal Remedy for Blackheads

You probably just found some black spots on your nose which are often called as Blackheads. They are very common to grow on nose because nose produces oil substances everyday. And this oil is one of the trigger that can stimulate the blackheads and acne growth.Blackheads usually happens right before the pimples grow on your face. So you might want to know how to treat the blackheads on your nose before it converts to pimples
Before we learn more about some treatments to remove blackheads, I’ll give you some reasons why you might suffer blackheads on your nose. I’m telling you, not everyone knows what causes blackheads. It is very important because by knowing the reasons why you might get blackheads, you will be able to remove them really quick.
The most common reason is the effect of hormone. That’s why, many patients with blackheads are teens. Teens, especially during puberty stage, have a lot of hormones in their body. These hormones will stimulate the production of some oil to keep your face moist. But sometimes, the hormones grow uncontrollable and produce so many oil that can cause blackheads and acne.

Some effective Ayurveda and Herbal remedy for Black head and Acne

-Make a paste of freshly crushed fenugreek leaves and water. Apply this paste on face and wash it off with lukewarm water after 10-15 mins. Repeat this technique every night before going to bed for a blackhead free skin.

-In case you have normal to oily skin, go for fuller's earth face pack. Just make a smooth paste of fuller's earth (multani mitti) and rose water and apply it on the face. This would not only control black heads but would also keep the skin smooth and silky.

-Remove the unwanted grime with the help of bananas as they are known to clean the skin. Just use the inner portion of banana skin for rubbing it thoroughly around the affected area and it would do wonders for your facial skin.

-Make a smooth paste of ground radish seeds and water and apply it on the blackheads prone area. Let it remain there for about 15 mins and then rinse it with lukewarm water. This is one of the most effective blackhead removal techniques.

-Home made scrubs are quite effective in getting rid of black heads. Take 4 tablespoons of baking soda and 1 teaspoon of dead sea salt. Mix them well in 2 tablespoons of water. Now use this paste as scrub on the effected area. Make sure you scrub the skin only after steaming the face.

--Make a smooth paste of oatmeal powder and rose water and gently spread it all over the face. Let it remain as it is for 15 mins and then rinse it off with cold water.

-Honey is quite helpful in getting rid of blackheads. All you need to do is warm some honey and apply it on blackhead prone areas for 10 to 15 mins. Rinse it with warm water and what you get is a blackhead free skin!

-Grape's pulp can also be an effective remedy for treating blackheads. Just apply grapes pulp generously on the effected areas and let it dry. Wash the face with warm water and you are all set with a black bump free skin.

Natural Remedy for Dry Lips


  • Don’t let your lips dry. Drink plenty of water everyday.
  • You can cut the cucumber in slices and can apply on the lips. This is considered to be one of the proven home remedies for dry lips.
  • Aloe vera gel is time tested and proven one of the home remedies for cracked lips. You can apply the aloe vera gel or juice on the lips. This will prevent lip cracking.
  • One can also apply the Neem leaves extract on the lips. However, it is quite difficult because of its extremely bitter taste. This is one of the good home remedies for dry lips.
  • Include the diet which is rich in vitamin A. This vitamin is very important for the growth and repair of the skin including the lips. Vegetables like carrot, tomatoes and green leafy vegetables are excellent source of the Vitamin A.
  • You can also make a booster drink with vegetables. For this, you can have 1tbsp of water cress, carrot and spinach juice. Add two tbsp of wheat germ oil and one glass of tomato juice, and 1 tbsp of nutritional yeast. Have this drink. It is also a good one of the home remedies for dry lips.
  • Try to include grains, legumes and nutritional yeast in your diet. This will prevent your lips from cracking.
  • One of the most important things to be remembered that you should not lick your cracked lips. Your saliva may give temporarily relief but when the saliva dries, it gets again cracked. In fact, sometimes it may worsen the case.
  • There are some herbal lip guards available in the market. You can apply as per the direction given on the product.
  • Remember that the sun can be harmful to your cracked lips. The sun can more easily dry the skin and hence use the lip balm containing the sunscreen.
  • Give up the smoking even if you do. Smoking worsens the case of lip cracking.
  • Try to look at some other factors which can trigger the crack lips. The trigger factors may include; toothpaste, cosmetics, skin care products, mouthwash, nutritional deficiencies and some other items like candy and chewing gum.
  • Sometimes cosmetics like lipsticks may also cause irritation to the lips and may result into cracked lips.
  • Cracked lips are supposed to be infected very easily. So, whenever you have cracked lips, kindly apply some over the counter antibiotics. This will prevent further infections.
  • If the cracked lips are due to drooling in the night, you can use the zinc oxide ointment which may work as protective agent. This is also one of the good home remedies for dry lips.
  • Simply apply the clarified butter or milk cream before going to bed. Continue this for few days. This is one of the well liked home remedies for dry lips.
  • The butter oil known as ‘Ghee’ is supposed to be excellent remedy for cracked lips. You stretch your lips up to maximum extent and fill them with the Ghee. This will heal your cracked lips within couple of days. This is one of the useful home remedies for dry lips.
  • Some suggest going for vitamin B complex tablets. This will help you healing the cracked lips.
  • Never remain constipated. Constipation worsens the case. For this, you can go for herbal bowel regulators.

Natural tips to Avoid Gas Problems- Bloating, Flatulence, Belching


Intestinal gas, more commonly called stomach gas, not only cause discomfort and gas pain but are embarrassing too. Although gas problems like bloating, burping and passing gas are natural, they might become serious and affect our daily activities. Therefore, it is advisable to avoid all the abdominal gas problems, the common ones being bloating, flatulence and belching. For intestinal gas treatment or for avoiding bloating, flatulence and belching, one must know the underlying causes for excessive intestinal gas formation and should adopt required dietary changes and other measures including medications if necessary.

How to Avoid Bloating?
Bloating makes a person feel that his/her abdomen has become enlarged. Dilation of abdomen can be caused by anything- fluid, tumors, enlarged organs, or fat within the abdomen. However, the most common cause of bloating is excessive formation of intestinal gas that could not be passed through belching or flatulence. Bloating often causes abdominal pain that can be mild and dull or sharp and intense gas pain. Bloating gas relief can be had by passing gas or having a bowel movement.

Avoid Foods that Cause Gas and Bloating
Where the cause of bloating is excessive intestinal gas formulation, it is usually due to fatty foods and some other foods that cause gas and bloating. To avoid bloating, reduce or totally avoid such foods depending upon the seriousness of bloating problem. Common foods that cause gas and bloating include Baked beans, Broccoli, Brussels sprouts, Cabbage, Carbonated drinks, Cauliflower, Chewing gum, Fruits like apples, peaches and pears, Hard candy, and Lettuce among others.

How to Avoid Flatulence?
Flatulence, simply stated, is gas buildup in the colon. It is caused due to production of gas by bacteria within intestines during the process of digesting sugars and polysaccharides. Some bacteria are more capable of producing gas and thus they result into chronic flatulence. Other causes of flatulence include maldigestion or malabsorption of sugars and polysaccharides as well as bacterial overgrowth of the small intestine. Constipation too is one of the causes of flatulence as the longer food waste remains in colon, the more time it has to ferment that in turn produces stomach gas.

Avoid Foods that Cause Flatulence
Anyone suffering from the gas problem of flatulence must avoid such food that form excessive intestinal gas like beans, peas, lentils, cabbage, onions, broccoli, cauliflower, bananas, raisins, whole-wheat bread, salads and carbonated drinks. Many people are intolerant of lactose and as such milk and dairy products too should be avoided by them to treat flatulence. Apart from avoiding flatulence causing food, one must also take the following measures.

• Avoid or cut back on fatty foods.
• When excessive gas is formed in your intestine, reduce intake of high fiber foods (temporarily though). When the flatulence problem is under control, start including high fiber foods in your diet gradually.
• Have more smaller meals and avoid having two or three large meals. Also eat slowly to aid proper digestion of the food you eat.
• Do not just sit back or lie down after meals. Have a slow walk or move around doing light works. This aids digestion and avoids flatulence.
How to Avoid Belching?
Belching, also called burping, is the normal act of expelling out stomach gas through mouth. Belching is, in fact, caused by inflated stomach that has dilated due to swallowed air. Air can be swallowed while gulping food and drinking rapidly or due to anxiety as well as carbonated drinks. The swallowed air in the stomach (stomach gas) causes abdominal discomfort that in turn results into belching for expelling the air out to get gas relief. Acid reflux or Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD) can also cause belching. When stomach acid backs up into esophagus, the person may swallow repeatedly in order to clear the material. This sometimes leads to swallowing more air and more belching. To avoid belching, take the following measures.

• Make habit of eating and drinking slowly. This will eliminate the chance of swallowing air.
• Avoid carbonated beverages and beer as they release carbon dioxide gas. Also, avoid drinking through a straw.
• Avoid chewing gum. The action causes you to swallow more often increasing the chances of swallowing air.
• Quit smoking. Smoking not only causes belching and other intestinal gas problems, it is also not good for general health.
• People using dentures should take care of the proper fit of their denture sets otherwise they can unknowingly swallow air while eating and drinking causing stomach gas.
• If suffering from Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD), treat it to avoid belching. Read Home Remedies for Heartburn/ Acid Reflux

Tomatoes and its health Benfits


 
Tomato (tamatar) is the red and edible fruit of a plant, known as Solanum lycopersicum. However, its counted as both a fruit and a vegetable. People enjoy tomatoes in the form of salad or like a veggie. South America is known to be the Origin of the juicy, delicious Tomatoes and then its use spread throughout the world. Interestingly, tomato is famous with the tag of “Golden Apple”.

This food is highly rich in vitamin C , E, B1, B6 and A, antioxidants, potassium, folate, dietary fiber, magnesium, niacin, iron, phosphorus and copper.

Health Benefits

Antioxidants- A tomato contains a good amount of vitamin A and C which works as fine antioxidants. They neutralize the harmful free radicals that are moving in the blood stream. These radicals can cause cell damage. However, when you cook tomatoes then their antioxidants shrink a lot. So, it would be better if you go for them in their raw form by making their salad. But if your body has the tendency of forming stones in gall bladder, kidneys or elsewhere, then do avoid tomatoes in their raw form as this might encourage the problem.

Diabetes- A good amount of chromium is found in this veggie. It helps to control the high blood sugar level.

Smoking- Tomatoes give a high hand in reducing the damage done by smoking cigarette. This healing gets possible due to the presence of two acids named as chlorogenic acid and coumaric acid. They help to shoot-off the carcinogens that are brought by cigarette smoke inside your body.

Vision- Due to a good level of vitamin A in this veggie, it helps to maintain a healthy vision and treat night blindness.

Heart problems- It contains vitamin B and potassium which helps in controlling high blood pressure and cholesterol issues. So, its use prevents the problems of stroke, heart attack and many other life-threatening heart problems.

Skin health- Rub the peel of tomato against your skin. It makes your skin look more shiny and clear.

Hair- A nutrient, vitamin A, in tomatoes help to keep your hair healthy and shiny.

Cancer- As this fruit-cum-veggie holds a good amount of lycopene, so it helps to treat cancer. This mainly includes prostate cancer, stomach cancer and colorectal cancer.

Healthy bones- Tomatoes contain vitamin K and calcium that helps to form strong bones and treat minor injuries.


*Do notice the point that eating too many tomatoes can cause the problems of kidney stones and gastroesophageal reflux disease or GERD. So eat them only in moderation.

Uterine Fibroids: What You Should Know

It is said that one in every five women over the age of 30 years has a uterine
fibroid. It is one of the most common diseases of the uterus.

However, the majority of women who have fibroid masses do not know that they
have it, because most often, it causes no symptoms at all.

Some people say that uterine fibroids are not a major health concern and that it
can be left alone. Others agree that fibroids can turn into a much more
dangerous disease, and immediate surgical removal of it is necessary.

Learning the Truth about Uterine Fibroids

To uncover the myth and understand the reality about uterine fibroids, we
conducted a study among 15 women aged 30 to 40 years who have not consulted an
ob-gyn for several years.

We brought them to an ob-gyn for diagnosis and found five of them suffering from
uterine fibroids. Five fibroids were also found in different locations of the
uterus from each one of them. We thought of having them undergo immediate
surgery, but the physicians decided to observe and monitor them closely at
first.

At one time, I heard a story of a woman who experienced heavy bleeding because
of uterine fibroids. She underwent surgery and was told that the fibroids
removed were the size of marbles.

Treatment for uterine fibroids is not only determined by the size and number of
fibroids, but will also depend on their location and symptoms.

Uterine fibroids are classified into three major types according to their
location:


1. Subserosal Fibroids – fibroids that grow under the outer muscle layer of the
uterus.

2. Intramural Fibroids – fibroids that grow within the muscle layer of the
uterus.

Subserosal or intramural fibroids are fibroids that commonly cause no symptoms
unless they are very large. If bulk symptoms such as constipation, pelvic pain,
and lower back pain do appear, then you may need to seek medical attention as
soon as possible.

3. Submucosal or Intracavitary Fibroids – fibroids that grow in the central
portion of the uterus, just under the lining of the uterine cavity, or sometimes
located entirely in the cavity of the uterus.

The submucosal or intracavitary fibroids are mostly responsible for the heavy
menstrual bleeding among women suffering from uterine fibroids. As they spread
and grow larger, severe bleeding and pain may occur, which can increase the risk
of death if left untreated.

 Submucosal Uterine Fibroids Can Also Cause Infertility

The risk of infertility is quite common for women struggling with submucosal
fibroids for the following reasons:

1. They can block the fallopian tube, thereby preventing the sperm from
fertilizing the egg.

2. Large submucosal fibroids will increase the distance the sperms have to
travel as they can increase the size of the cavity of the uterus.

3. Multiple and large submucosal uterine fibroids can diminish or impair the
blood supply to the uterine arteries. In other words, the entire anatomy and
structure of the uterus will be disturbed.

What Are the Treatment Options for Uterine Fibroids?

The two common treatments for uterine fibroids are surgery and medication.

Medications, however, cannot cure uterine fibroids permanently. They can only
provide temporary relief from symptoms or reduce the size of the fibroids.

So far, surgery is considered the best treatment option especially for
submucosal uterine fibroids.

One type of surgical procedure is called "myomectomy", which is performed to
remove the fibroids via an abdominal incision.

A relatively safe procedure, known as "hysteroscopy" (surgical procedure
utilizing an endoscope), is often performed to remove the fibroids without
needing an abdominal incision.

Should the fibroids get very large, "hysterectomy" (surgical removal of the
uterus) still remains the only permanent solution for uterine fibroids.

Uterine Sarcoma – Uterine Cancer?

Rapid or unexpected growth, such as enlargement of fibroid after menopause in a
short period of time, might indicate a cancer or malignant tumor (sarcoma).

It is quite hard to differentiate a malignant uterine sarcoma from the common
uterine fibroids because they share the same symptoms. It is important to
consult your physician to determine if you're having symptoms that might be
caused by cancer in the uterus.

Sleep Disorders and their causes


There are people who talk loud while sleeping. There are also those who move a
lot while sleeping as if they are awake. Because of these troubles, many have
become affected from their happy family life.

If you are experiencing such troubles, read further below as you may find the
answer you are looking for.

One of the reasons of your troublesome involuntary sleep movements may be caused
by an underlying illness.

By observing eyelid movements, you can determine whether someone is in deep
sleep or in light sleep. This way, you can also determine symptoms of dementia
or Parkinson's disease.

We are now studying how to calm the involuntary movements while sleeping by
means of herbal tea treatment.

Is dream a form of illness? Sleepwalking, sleep-talking...are they a form of
illness or disorder?

Sleep can be classified into two stages. During the first phase, which is a
light sleep, our eyes tend to move left and right. The second phase, which is
when you enter deep sleep, the eyes will stop moving.

However, it is hard to determine when or at what stage dream happens. Also, it
is difficult to say that dreaming is an illness or not. Some dreams seem to be
natural but there are dreams (especially frequent nightmares) that need medical
intervention.

Disruption or Malfunctioning of Neurotransmitters Can Lead to Various Sleep
Disorders

Nerve-signaling chemical substances called neurotransmitters are responsible in
making us sleep or staying awake. Actually, there are many brain chemicals that
are involved in sleep and dreaming, but the two most important ones are
serotonin and melatonin, which are all produced by the brain.

Melatonin is meant to calm the brain and induce sleep. On the other hand,
serotonin triggers the brain to dream. If these neurotransmitters are not
working properly, then poor sleeping postures, involuntary sleep movements,
sleep-talking, and sleepwalking, may occur.

The majority of patients who dream are male, aged above 50 years old. Usually,
family members are the one who first discover that the patient is suffering from
a sleeping disorder. If you have this kind of problem, doctors usually prescribe
the same or similar drugs used for Parkinson's disease and epilepsy.

12 Interesting Trivia You May Not Know About Sleep

1. People can take catnaps "with their eyes open" without even being aware of
it.

2. During deep sleep, we are almost completely paralysed. The only parts of our
bodies not affected by this paralysis are the muscles of the intestines,
diaphragm, blood, eyes, and heart.

3. It is not known if animals can also dream. There is no way we can determine
this since animals cannot communicate and directly tell us if they dream or not!

4. An average person spends about 6 years dreaming (2 hours every night) in
his/her lifetime. On the other hand, 1/3 of our lives are spent sleeping.

5. Five minutes after the end of the dream, half of it is forgotten. After ten
minutes, 90% of the dream is forgotten.

6. For adults, sleeping more than 9 hours every night is just as bad as sleeping
6 hours or less.

7. The average dream lasts about 10 to 15 minutes.

8. Our brains are more active when sleeping than when watching television.

9. In Portugal, 75% of the population stay up until past midnight. This is so
far the highest percentage of any country in the world.

10. Seven of the top 10 nocturnal areas are in Asia, led by Taiwan, where 69% of
people sleep after midnight.

11. Japanese people sleep less than anyone else on the world. 41% of the
population sleep just 6 hours or less every night.

12. In the world, people who go to bed the earliest and sleep the longest are in
Australia. Nearly one-fourth of the population in Australia go to bed by 10 PM,
while 31% get to sleep for more than 9 hours every night.

Home remedy to get rid of Head Lice


  • One of the famous treatments for head lice is putting Vaseline, olive oil and mayonnaise. This is kept overnight and then washed in the morning. You can use shower cap to retain the solution on the head and to prevent spoiling bed sheets.
  • Tea tree oil and other essential oils are natural lice killer. They can be put on the hair for overnight and then washed of in the next morning. It is very effective home remedies for head lice.
  • Wash your hairs with vinegar. It kills all the nits in two days. You can also apply coconut oil on your head after shampooing and conditioning.
  • You can add 10-15 drops of tea tree oil into shampoo bottle and then use it for hair wash. This is also one of the best home remedies for head lice.
  • You can also massage your head with mayonnaise oil and comb it after two hours. This will kill all the lice and their eggs. It is very common home remedy for lice.
  • Another good home remedy for lice is application of a mixture of lemon and butter on your head. Apply it and wait for about 20 seconds. Rinse it thoroughly. This will help killing the lice from the head.
  • Mix equal quantity of mineral oil like baby oil and vinegar. Apply it on your head and cover it for about an hour. Wash it later with your ordinary shampoo. This will clean off the lice from your head. This is one of the effective home remedies for head lice.
  • Usage of shaving cream is also useful to kill these lice and their eggs. Apply a thick coat of shaving cream, rub it and keep it for about 15 to 20 min.
  • Listerine also works good to get rid of lice. Listerine used must be of original flavor. Apply Listerine after washing your head with shampoo. Keep it for 10-15 min and then wash it off without using shampoo.
  • Take about eight to ten almonds and grind them to make a paste. For this, add two to three teaspoon of limejuice. Application of this paste on the scalp will be beneficial for killing the lice. Keep this paste for about ½ hour and then rinse thoroughly. This is one of the good home remedies for head lice
  • Make a paste from garlic and lime juice of one teaspoon each. Apply on the scalp and keep this paste for about half an hour and there after you wash your head. This is one of the best home remedies for head lice.
  • Another simple home remedy is using specially designed lice comb. This can be used on daily basis. The teeth of this comb have very less space in between them. This space is so little that it brings lice along with comb. Combing with this comb is easier when hairs are oily.
  • Application of castor oil also helps to prevent the growth of the lice.
  • Some believe that simply application of raw lemon once in a week will not only prevent the lice but will also prevent the formation of dandruff.
  • Try to avoid contact with a person having lice. This is one of the most contagious troubles. Lice have tendency to travel from one head to another head.
  • Keep your bed sheets, pillow covers, towels and cloths clean. Wash them with disinfectant.
  • Try to avoid sweet foods; it is believed in Ayurveda that lice are attracted by the blood having more glucose.

Effective Natural Treatment, Precautionary tips for Psoriasis


1.The use of curd in the form of buttermilk has proved useful in psoriasis and the patient should drink it in liberal quantities.

2.Do not control natural urges like vomiting, urination, bowel emptying etc.

3.Avoid taking spicy food and consume only easily digestible food.

4.Do not eat too much of salty, sour or acidic foods

5.Avoid consuming opposite foods

6.Include more fruits, vegetable, fruit juices in your diet. Bitter gourd, curd, boiled vegetables, pumpkin etc... are good psoriasis diet.

7.Avoid animal fats, eggs, processed canned foods from your diet.

8.Application of avocado oil gently on the effected part is found to be an effective treatment.

9.Cod liver oil, lecithin, linseed oil, vitamin E, and zinc fasten the healing process.

10.Apply moisturizing cream or gel at regular intervals to maintain the moisture level of the skin.

11.Avoid using soap while taking bath instead use gram flour and use a herbal scrubber.

12.Avoid pricking, peeling and scratching skin

13.Use separate, clean clothes and towel for your use.

14.Taking bath in sea water is found to be very effective in psoriasis treatment.

15.Drinking fresh bitter gourd juice mixed with one teaspoon of lime juice on an empty stomach is an effective psoriasis treatment

16.Applying aloe vera cream thinly to irritated skin and rubbing lightly is effective.

17.Mental health is absolutely necessary for an effective treatment of psoriasis. Try deep breathing and relaxation exercise to reduce stress.

18.Exposing to mild sunlight daily for 30 minutes will improve the texture of the affected area of the skin.

for more health advice on curing Psoriasis and for Ayurveda Cure contact us at info@ayurwellness.in. You can discuss with our Ayurveda Specialists

Prevent premature Aging of your Skin with Ayurveda


Premature aging skin is one of the challenges before those who want to keep their skin youthful for longer periods of their lives. People, especially women, take many anti aging measures for skin care so that they may delay the process of aging which is represented by loosened skin. Ayurveda has deeply addressed this issue of aging skin. It says that premature aging of the skin is caused due to the aggravation of vata dosha, which naturally increases with age. Dryness of skin is a predominant trait of a Vata dosha body type constitution. Even in other people, Vata causes dryness of the skin when it is vitiated due to seasonal influences. In fact, skin ages due to both- internal as well as external factors. Internal factors may be listed as inability of skin to retain moisture, low levels of elastin production, lesser production of new skin cells etc. External factors include lifestyle choices and surrounding environment such as smoking, prolonged exposure to sun or extreme cold, poor diet, stress, lack of exercise etc.

Here are some herbal remedies for skin. They are, in fact, home remedies for skin tightening which include usage of common household materials found in kitchen as well as some common Indian herbs.

• Massage face with clarified butter (ghee), almond oil or coconut oil before going to bed. An oil massage is the best remedy for dry skin. Almond and coconut oil are best Ayurvedic remedies for aging skin as they improve complexions, reduce fine lines and wrinkles apart from curing crow's feet. For better absorption, anti-aging oil massages should be done at night.

• Ghee or clarified butter contains vitamin E, beta-carotene, and antioxidants that prevent cell damage and fight free radicals. Rub ghee all over your body to get it absorbed in the skin. The best way to get benefits of ghee is to include it in your daily diet. Mix 1-2 teaspoons of ghee while cooking vegetables, dals etc.

 *Apply fresh Aloe Vera juice to the skin. If you can't get fresh aloe vera, get aloe vera gel from health care shops

*There are many benefits of honey, one being its anti aging property. Take 1/2 tablespoon of honey and mix it with 1-2 tablespoon of rose water. Apply this mixture on face, neck, and other dry skin area. Leave it for about 15-20 minutes. Now wash it off with tepid water. Honey moisturizes and soothes dry skin. This mixture will clean your skin and tone it to give you a glowing complexion with wrinkle free skin.
Take one teaspoon each of egg yolk and honey, and 1-2 teaspoon milk powder. Mix them well to make a smooth paste. Apply this paste on face, neck and other dry skin area. Leave it for 10-15 minutes and then wash with cold water.

• Mix one egg yolk, 1 teaspoon each of honey, olive oil and vitamin E oil to make an anti aging lotion to be used as moisturizing facial mask. Apply it to face and other areas and leave for 15 minutes. Then wash it off with lukewarm water.

• Avoid too much of sun exposure as it is one of the main causes of wrinkles. Use umbrella, scarves or any other protective cover when going out in sun.

• Quit smoking Cigarette smoke ages skin by releasing an enzyme that breaks down elastin and collagen- vital components of skin.

• Get adequate sleep. Sleeping position is also important. Try to sleep on your back, as it prevents wrinkle formation. Sleeping on sides may cause wrinkles on chin and cheek and sleeping with face-down will result in furrowed brow.

• Eat lots of fruits and vegetables. They have anti-oxidants that help fight damage caused by free radicals. They keep skin younger and radiant.

• Drink lots of water during the day to provide optimum supply of moisture to the skin.

• Do not over-wash your face. Washing face too often removes skin off its natural barrier oils and moisture that protect against wrinkles.

• Basil herb or Ocimum Sanctum (tulsi) has effective anti-aging and anti-oxidant properties. Follow the traditional Ayurvedic method of boiling fresh tulsi leaves and water until the water reduces to half. Then drink the resulting water. The other ayurvedic way of having basil leaves is to eat the crushed herb when it cools.

• Switch to green tea. Green tea has anti-inflammatory, anti-ageing, and healing effects on skin which helps in skin rejuvenation.