Disorders of the Lungs-treated with the Help of Ayurveda

Respiratory Disorder is an unfortunate affair, as the air we breathe is polluted with harmful gases, dust, etc., making our body more prone to sickness. Lets see Disorders of the Lungs and treatment through Ayurveda.

Now, due to covide times, more focus and attention towards lungs disorders and breathing issues. Ayurvedic Therapies Can Help With COPD: Have Gourds & Pulses, Drink Warm Water, Replace Cleaning Sponges Often

Causes for Respiratory Disorders

Obesity –Obesity is a widespread condition, causing respiratory issues in several ways. Obesity weakens immunity and leads to many diseases.

Dietary habits – Eating junk food along with untimely eating–leads to indigestion & constipation, which in turn weakens the immune system, making a person fall prey to the infections.

Air pollution–Air pollution makes our immune system, very poor. It increases the risk of infections that cause breathing problems and is one of the reasons behind most of the respiratory disorders.

Smoking—Smoking can cause lung cancer and chronic respiratory diseases–worldwide.

Respiratory infections are best treated with Ayurveda—

Ayurveda can eliminate and ultimately destroy the root cause of diseases. It can balance the body’s internal functions & hormonal disturbances to avoid issues in the future.

Specific Ayurvedic Herbs & Panchakarma Therapies are essential in rejuvenating the body. Various herbs are given to the patients in the form of capsules and powders–to boost the immunity, to make them more defensive against infections.

Following are the herbs for supporting a healthy bronchial response are—

Black pepper is a lung tissue builder and a detoxifier. It keeps the airways open at all times.
Liquorice is the herb that supports the proper functioning of the lungs and adrenals. Liquorice supports a healthy immune response and eliminates the natural toxins from the liver.
Calming Herbs such as turmeric can help in stressful situations when the bronchial system is overworked. Turmeric as such can calm down the bronchial system, especially when taken with coriander and cumin.
Turmeric and dandelion support the reduction of mucus accumulation.
Pungent herbs such as black pepper, garlic, cinnamon, cloves, and ginger, help reduce the consistency of the mucus, making it easier to breathe.
Kaphapitta Shamaka, one of the coldest and most bitter herbs in Ayurveda, reduces vitiated Kapha and Pitta.
A combination of Vasaka Leaf, Liquorice root, tulsi, ginger, Haritaki fruit, pippali and peppermint is beneficial.
Talisadi Churnam and Sitopaladi are other useful herbs that are an excellent addition as they help in building immunity.

The body wants to keep the lungs healthy, so let us work with our body’s priorities to heal lung problems.

At Madras Institute of Ayurveda [MIA]—the Ayurveda and Panchakarma Centre, there are facilities for consultation in different areas of treatment, regular check-ups and more. Here we provide services for Disorders of the Lungs. MIA also possesses an in-patient department with well-equipped Panchakarma theatres.

Treatment alternatives for an entire spectrum of diseases are offered here. But before starting treatment–a right diagnosis is essential.

Therefore, log on to www.miayurveda.org for any concerns you may have.

Ayurvedic treatment for Eczema

Eczema is a condition in which parts of the skin become inflamed, itchy, red, cracked, and rough. Blisters may sometimes occur.

Eczema has shown to be brought, well under control with the help of Ayurvedic Treatment. Diet (Ahara) and Lifestyle (Vihara) have proven to be the cornerstones of management.

“Eczema is a common, chronic, non-infectious skin condition. The main symptom of this inflammatory disease is a very itchy rash.”

Management for Kustha is beneficial in Vicharchika [Eczema]. In case of Vata predominant Kustha–internal administration of ghee is advised. For Pitta predominant Kustha–Virechana (therapeutic purgation) is helpful, followed by Rakta Mokshna (therapeutic bloodletting), and for Kapha predominant Kustha–Vamana (therapeutic vomiting) is beneficial.

According to Ayurveda, eczema is best treated with Panchakarma therapy.

Treatments like-

consuming medicated ghee for about seven days
whole body oil massage
inducing sweating and
inducing purging and vomiting could be recommended.

The above treatments are meant to help control eczema by removing toxins and supporting the immune system.

Ayurvedic herbal remedies-

Ayurvedic treatment also involves consuming various herbs. They can be added to food, drink them as tea, or in the form of a supplement.

The following herbs are used to treat the symptoms of eczema-

Cardamom
Turmeric
Triphala
Neem

Dietary Changes Needed-

The diet should be able to pacify the dosha that is primarily vitiated.
Certain foods are commonly known to be aggravating to Vicharchika. Hence avoid the following–hot and spicy foods, excess fermented foods, excess salt, alcohol, sour fruits, deep-fried foods, ice cream, cold drinks, coffee, strong tea and overconsumption of nuts.
Consume Light food.
Consume more of Bitter vegetables like bitter and the ridge gourd, brinjal, lauki etc., Purana Dhanya (Older grains), Mudga (Green gram), Patola (snake gourd), Shali-Shastika (rice harvested in 60 days), Yava (barley), Goduma (wheat).
Introduce ghee into your diet.
Drink 6-10 glasses of water a day

It is best to eat a plant-based diet rich in whole, healthy and unprocessed foods. The right diet for eczema also must include foods rich in-

Essential fatty acids
Zinc
Vitamin A and vitamin C

The above nutrients help in reducing the symptoms of eczema.

Treatment also includes drinking lots of fluids. Liquorice tea and aloe vera juice are among the recommended ones.

Foods to avoid–

alcohol
dairy products
refined sugar
acidic fruits
tomatoes
fried food
salty or spicy food and
processed food

These foods could exacerbate your eczema symptoms.

Topical remedies include–

To soothe your skin, you can try topical natural treatments like:

*Oatmeal bath-

Oatmeal is a fine powder made out of ground oats. When used for bathing, it can calm your skin by reducing inflammation.

*Coconut oil-

Coconut oil is ideal for dryness caused due to patchy skin. It has antibacterial properties, that can prevent harmful and infection-causing bacteria from entering the cracked skin.

Spread the oil on damp skin–once or twice a day. Use cold-pressed coconut oil, as it is free from potentially irritating chemicals.

*Hemp seed oil-

Hemp seed oil can hydrate and strengthen the skin. It could help prevent bacterial infections and provide relief from itching.

*Sunflower oil-

Sunflower oil can be used as a natural moisturizer. It can reduce inflammation and increase hydration–making it ideal for relieving symptoms of eczema. Sunflower oil can be applied twice a day.

*Aloe Vera gel-

Aloe vera gel can relieve inflamed skin and itching, due to its cooling effect. Apply the gel on the skin once or twice a day.

Stress management techniques-

Ayurvedic treatment for eczema also focuses on relieving stress since it can trigger eczema flare-ups. This may be done via–

deep breathing techniques
massage
meditation
walking
yoga

Madras Institute of Ayurveda [MIA], Chennai is an Ayurvedic centre, where age-old treatment techniques are administered for all types of health conditions. There are outpatient and in-patient departments, with facilities for consultation in different specialities. Connect with us at www.miayurveda.org to learn more about the treatment plans.

Treating Constipation with the Help of Ayurveda

Constipation—is a prevalent health issue. Even one day without a complete bowel movement can be painful and disease forming. Treating Constipation with the Help of Ayurveda is one of the oldest practice under conceptual understanding of vata, pitta and kapha.

First, let’s see — What is constipation

Constipation is a Vata condition that defines qualities such as dryness and hardness. Constipation occurs when Vata’s cold and dry qualities—disturb the colon, interfering its function. The reason for this is–insufficient fibre in the diet, inadequate water intake, lack of exercise and many other factors. Constipation can increase chances of distension and discomfort, flatulence and pain, and headache and bad breath.

Causes–

Constipation is usually caused due to lack of attention—to nature’s call. Irregular eating habits, sedentary lifestyle, disturbed and worried mind, and drinking too much tea or coffee adds to the already sluggish digestion, leading to constipation.

Ayurveda recommends specific remedies to relieve constipation and help make the bowel movement smooth and uninterrupted—

*Follow a Vata Dosha Pacifying Diet—The best ways to prevent constipation is to follow–Vata Balancing Diet. Avoid cold foods and drinks, dried fruit, salads and beans. Only consume warm foods, warm beverages, and well-cooked vegetables.

*Triphala–-One very effective remedy is–Triphala, that helps cure constipation. Take one-fourth teaspoon of Triphala, half teaspoon of coriander seeds and one-fourth teaspoon of cardamom seeds. Grind them and have it two times a day. Triphala has laxative properties, and cardamom along with coriander seeds help relieve flatulence and indigestion.

*Milk and ghee—Consuming one or two teaspoons of ghee in a cup of hot milk at bedtime is a beneficial and gentle way to relieve constipation.

*Fennel Seeds–A teaspoon of roasted fennel taken at bedtime with a glass of warm water can act as a laxative. The oil found in fennel can help kick start digestion by promoting the production of gastric enzymes.

*Anjeer [Figs]—Fresh and dry Figs soaked in warm water, are much recommended for constipation, due to its high fibre content. Eat figs daily to keep your digestion going.

Cure constipation by paying attention to the following simple advice—

– Drink at least four glasses of water in the morning. You can also drink green tea or chamomile tea that can help boost your digestion.

– Consume a fibre-rich diet every day.

– Exercise at least half an hour daily to help keep your metabolism in good shape.

– Eat adequate seasonal fruits and vegetables to add to the bulk.

The Madras Institute of Ayurveda [MIA] – is the Centre for Ayurvedic Treatment in Chennai, where ancient tradition along with modern techniques are offered. It ranges from ‘Panchakarma treatment to Rejuvenation’.

There are facilities for a wide range of ayurvedic treatments, with the highest standards dating back to Vedic times. MIA brings the same genuine Ayurvedic effect with all facilities, to a more accessible location. For more guidelines and explanations about the Ayurvedic approach to Constipation and healing, connect with Madras Institute of Ayurveda, Inside Vijaya Hospital Premises, Vadapalani, Chennai . Therefore, log on to www.miayurveda.org to learn more about the procedures the centre offers.

Ayurvedic Approach in Obesity –

In Ayurveda, Obesity is seen as Medoroga or ‘Sthaulya Roga a disorder of–Medo Dhatu described in classic texts such as our ancient Vedas. ‘Overweight, if not treated, can lead to Obesity’. Ayurvedic Approach in Obesity is discussed here in this article.

Health Problems due to Obesity —

Obesity is a “signal” for many other major illnesses. Adding those extra pounds leads to Obesity. Obesity can lead to hypertension, diabetes, osteoarthritis, cardio disorders, liver disorders, varicose vein, and many other health issues. So, controlling body weight is very important because, with passing time, metabolism gets weaker, resulting in a rapid weight gain.

Managing overweight and Obesity —

Ayurvedic treatment programs are designed based on the body type (Vata, pitta, Kapha) of the patient. Weight loss treatments with Ayurveda, facilitate quick results. Ayurveda Weight Reduction Programs, Panchakarma Treatment (five detoxification processes) yoga and meditation can all help in the improvement of the overall physical and emotional health of obese patients. Obesity needs to be treated to adjust the metabolic processes in the body, by reducing Ama and the excess fat that regulates the function of Kapha without harming Vata.

Ayurvedic Approach in Obesity: Obesity is a dangerous you grow old

Treatment Plan—

*Triphala, Brahmi and Garcinia are some of the many medicinal plants that help in weight reduction.

*Deep massage with herbal powder, herbal paste, specific oils (Abhyanga), and herbal steam bath helps move the accumulated fat. Proper diet plan and yoga prevents fat accumulation, further.

*Proper Panchakarma therapies are administered based on the requirement of the individual.

* Dhanurasana, Ardhamatsyendrasana, Trikonasana and Vakrasana are a few yoga postures for losing the extra fat, that is more effective when practised with pranayama and proper diet.

*Regular exercise helps in maintaining good health. Brisk walk for about 30 minutes early morning helps burn excess fat.

*Consuming a glass of lukewarm water with lime juice and honey regularly in the morning, has added advantage.

*Eating small meals every three hours—is helpful. Add more fruits and vegetables and include low-calorie foods.

*Raw vegetable salad such as carrot, cucumber, tomatoes and, fruits like papaya and pineapple are perfect since they are full of fibre and can fill you up.

*Avoid refined foods and fatty food including milk products such as paneer, cheese and butter.

Madras Institute of Ayurveda [MIA] Chennai–is the centre for Ayurvedic treatment, where ancient tradition meets modern techniques. We provide Ayurvedic Approach in Obesity – ???? ??????. Procedures from Panchakarma to rejuvenation are all offered at this centre. The centre has a full-fledged out-patient department with facilities for consultation in different specialities.A natural way of weight loss is the best way to shed out the excess fat in the body.

Therefore, log onto www.miayurveda.org for more information.

Manage High Cholesterol Levels with the Help of Ayurveda

Cholesterol in itself is not bad and is actually essential for the body to function properly. From the Ayurvedic Perspective, the production of cholesterol does not necessarily need to be reduced but needs to be balanced.

When the digestion is balanced and healthy, the body produces the right amount of cholesterol–in the right proportion, to nourish the body.

When digestion, assimilation and elimination are balanced, our doshas and all the tissues form a balance too. Ayurveda talks about Meda Dhatu (lipid tissue) and explains how to maintain a healthy quantity and quality of this fat in the body. When Meda dhatu is balanced and healthy, it subsequently helps to maintain balanced cholesterol.

Concept of Cholesterol in Ayurveda

Ayurveda highlights the importance of metabolic processes in disease management. “Agni” [the digestive fire], is the term used in Ayurveda for defining all the bodily metabolic actions.

Metabolic processes maintain the normal quantity, quality, and functions of the Doshas and tissues (Dhatu). From the ayurvedic perspective, ama, or toxins in the fat tissue, cause the harmful kind of cholesterol. Ama, the sticky, foul-smelling waste product of improper digestion, can block the channels of the body.

When ama is not cleared from the system, it starts to spread throughout the body. When this ama mixes with the fat tissue, it damages the channels of the body and leads to problems such as high cholesterol, heart disease, and high blood pressure.

Ama is the primary cause of all metabolic disorders in Ayurveda. Once formed it is capable of obstructing the metabolic pathways and causing diseases. Cholesterol is considered as one such product that originates due to metabolic weakening in the GI tract and fat tissue (Meda).

Managing High Cholesterol with the help of Ayurveda

The Ayurvedic approach to hypercholesterolemia involves methods to increase the digestive fire to digest the ama, regulating assimilation and elimination and controlling the causative factors. Many herbs are used for the management of Meda dhatu.

Therefore–

Reduce the contributing factors
Increase metabolic activity
Normalize assimilation and elimination aspects of digestion process

The strength of the digestive fire is needed for the tissues to be properly formed, including the fat tissue. When the production of Meda dhatu is disturbed, the quantity (amount and proportion) and quality (contents) of Meda dhatu are also disturbed.

If the liver becomes overloaded with toxins, physical and environmental factors, its functioning can become compromised. When this happens, it disturbs the digestive fire (Agni). This results in imbalance in Meda dhatu.

Causes of improper digestion–

Improper digestion is caused due to —

mental,
physical and
environmental issues.

Mental causes include too much mental activity and emotional factors such as anger, worries, sorrow, and greed.

Physical causes include eating too much, eating too little, and eating “wrong” food, eating before the previous meal is digested, eating at irregular times of day, eating when suffering from indigestion, constipation, suppressing natural urges, and emaciation.

Environmental causes include eating the wrong foods for the season, as well as eating foods polluted with pesticides and other toxins.

Herbs used–

Ayurvedic herbs are used for managing cholesterol and producing healthier fat tissue and balance cholesterol production are Bhumi, Amalaki, Guduchi, Indian Sarsaparilla, Triphala, Trikatu, Guggul, Turmeric, Shilajit and Manjistha. Each of these help with bile secretion and purify the blood and muscle tissue.

Diet and lifestyle tips for lowering cholesterol

The general guideline is to follow a light Kapha-pacifying diet because those foods will help increase fat metabolism without creating much dryness in the body. A Kapha-pacifying diet is typically having bitter and pungent foods. And avoiding sweet, sour, and salty foods.

Avoid cheese, fatty food, and processed foods.
Reduce sweets and cold foods.
Include more millets, quinoa, oatmeal, apples, grapefruit, and almonds to reduce cholesterol.

Lifestyle Changes–

*It is good to follow a Kapha-pacifying routine. This includes exercising every day. Exercise balances the Agni, for metabolizing fat and creating healthy cholesterol.

*Do Yoga asanas and Surya namaskar as part of regular routine.

*Pranayama is also recommended, as helps clean the Srotas [channels].

*The Kapha-pacifying routine discourages sleeping during the day, as this causes the metabolism to slow down.

*Practice meditation. It reduces stress and improves mental clarity.

Madras Institute of Ayurveda [MIA], Chennai, provides successful treatment programs for an entire spectrum of diseases. Talk to us to know more about Cholesterol Levels with the Help of Ayurveda at Madras Institute of Ayurveda , Chennai. MIA has a full-fledged out-patient department with facilities for consultation in different specialties. It also possesses an in-patient department with proper and well-equipped Panchakarma theatres.

So, connect with us at www.miayurveda.org for more information.

Good eating habits in Ayurveda – Madras Institute for Ayurveda, Hospital

The Foundation of Good Eating Habits – With Ayurveda

‘The Act of eating’ is life giving and The Process of digestion, is the critical half of it!!!

Benefits of right Eating Habits or Good eating habits in Ayurveda –

Eating for maximum benefit requires awareness and is important for the development of consciousness as well as our physical health—

Stimulating Digestion- When we sit down to eat with our stomach in a relaxed posture and our awareness on the taste, texture and smell of the food, then digestion is greatly improved. For optimal digestion, our bodies need a suitable environment, for it to start an uplifting and a settled environment allows the body to process and absorb the nutrients from our meals. Standing, walking, driving and other similar activities can inhibit digestion.

Another way to improve digestion is stimulate the ‘Agni’ or Digestive fire in our stomach, before we begin eating. Weak digestive fire may result in fatigue after eating —

So, to handle this, “The Council of Maharishi Ayurveda Physicians” recommends Right Eating which include the following—

*Eat sitting down, in a settled environment, without the T.V on.

*Eat a teaspoon of grated fresh ginger with a few drops of lemon and a pinch of salt, before a full meal. The blend of spices activates the salivary glands, producing the necessary enzymes to help digest the nutrients in the food and help support absorption by the body.

* Follow nature’s prescription of suitable times to eat. Our digestive system is closely tied to the solar cycle.

*Ayurveda suggests that lunch be the largest meal of the day, since that is the time when the digestive fire is at maximum potency. As the sun goes down, so does our digestive fire.

*Avoid ice-cold drinks and foods

*Chew food thoroughly.

*Stay Hydrated.

*Eat mindfully and only when hungry.

*Add healthy fats to your diet. Good Digestion requires eating enough fat.

Good Nutrition goes beyond eating foods that are fresh and wholesome. If the process of digestion is sluggish, the body creates sticky food residue called ‘Ama’, that can clog the channels in our body and hinder the process of assimilation. Proper digestion and metabolism on the other hand results in the conversion of the foods you eat into healthy body tissues.

A few Ayurvedic Dietary Rules—

-Leave 4 hours between meals with no snacking [Eating in between meals weakens the digestive fire].

-The sign that the previous meal is digested is when the breath is fresh.

-Drink hot water to stimulate the digestive fire [Agni]

-Eating foods with cold, wet and heavy qualities, weakens the Agni.

-Avoid contradicting food combinations, such as raw and cooked foods together and very hot and cold foods at the same time.

Therefore, what you eat can nourish and strengthen the digestive fire, boosting your digestive system—or on the other hand it can smother it, leading to an impaired, weakened or imbalanced Agni. So, the health goal is to balance this ‘Digestive Fire.’

“A diet of Simple Foods is the Best for your Gut”

Migraine Headaches treatment in Ayurveda

Ayurvedic Cure for Migraine Headaches

Ayurveda comprehensively promotes mind-body medicine and therefore influences physiological processes, that include autonomic modulation to control migraine. This article is about Migraine Headaches treatment in Ayurveda.

The ayurvedic regime in the treatment of migraine headaches involves- the elimination of vitiated Kapha Dosha, which helps in preventing the forthcoming Kapha and Pitta disorders.

Ayurveda describes headache as a symptom of various diseases and also as an independent disease entity.

Vata Pitta symptoms are evident in all the phases of migraine-

*Prodrome Phase: constipation, mood changes, food cravings, stiff neck, etc.

*The Aura Phase: bright spots or flashes of light, vision loss, pins and needles sensations, weakness or numbness, hearing noises.

*Attacking Phase: pain on one side or both sides of your head, throbbing or pulsing pain, sensitivity to light, nausea, vomiting, blurred vision and lightheadedness.

*Postdrome Phase: confusion, mood swings, dizziness, weakness, sensitivity to light and sound.

It is essential to reduce the common causes of Vata and Pitta imbalance while handling migraine headaches. Reduce the intake of spicy, sour, bitter and astringent taste, exposure to extreme cold/hot conditions, exertion, keeping awake at nights, suppression of hunger and urges, stress, smoking and exposure to strong smells.

Ayurveda offers a traditional strategy in the management of migraine headaches, which includes medicines, ghee, milk boiled with herbs and tonics.

There are many ways in which Ayurveda can bring balance to life and treat the root cause of migraines. Some integrative therapies help manage migraine headaches, such as—

Diet therapy

*Dosha specific Nutrition– Depending on the Dosha (s) involved in the problem–the patient must be advised to eat a diet that pacifies- the aggravated Dosha.

*Avoid or minimise migraine triggering foods– Migraine trigger foods can be different in every individual and finding these trigger foods can help to reduce migraine headaches

Lifestyle modifications

Migraine (Ardhavabhedaka)–can be prevented by following a healthy lifestyle, at all times. Getting enough sleep, maintaining proper food habits and avoiding migraine triggers can reduce the frequency and severity of migraine headaches. Some of these healthy lifestyles include a proper diet and exercise routine, night’s sleep, a morning routine, & a low-stress lifestyle.

Massage Therapy

Massage and Stretching Exercises can help minimise the severity and frequency of migraine headaches. Migraineurs must get proper sleep.

Yoga

Since stress is an essential factor in forming migraine headaches, yoga without a doubt can help in preventing these types of problems. Yoga can also relieve tension in the muscles of the neck, back, and head, which contributes to headaches. Yoga can help to release tight muscles and improve blood circulation in that region. Yoga helps relax the mind as well.

Meditation

Stress is a significant contributor to both tension and migraine headaches. Reciting mantras and doing meditation can reduce stress.

Herbal therapy

A mix of herbal essential oils can help with the problem. Peppermint Essential Oil and balm can help with migraines.

Pranayama:

Various breathing exercises have different effects on the body, mind, and spirit. Breathing practices purify the Nadis, the subtle channels that carry Prana through the field of the mind.

If the headache is because of Vata vitiation, one can benefit from alternate nostril breathing (Anuloma Viloma). If the problem is due to pitta vitiation, performing lunar and Shitali pranayama can help, and if it’s due to Kapha dosha vitiation, solar and kapalabhati pranayama can be beneficial.

Soothing nose drops (Nasya):

Putting about five drops of Brahmi ghee in each nostril can ease the pain of migraine headaches. In Vata type headaches, placing 3-5 drops of warm ghee in each nostril can help to calm down the trouble.

Many of these integrative therapies help and are effective but should be taken with the advice of the expert or an Ayurveda Expert.

At Madras Institute of Ayurveda [MIA], Chennai, care begins with an accurate diagnosis, based on which the experts create a patient-specific treatment plan to treat the disease and not just the symptoms. MIA, Vadapalani, Chennai provides services for Migraine Headaches treatment in Ayurveda

MIA is centre of Ayurvedic medicine and treatment in Chennai, where age-old tradition meets modern techniques, ranging from Panchakarma treatment to rejuvenation treatment. With facilities for a whole range of ayurvedic treatments, with the highest standards and most beautiful traditions dating back to Vedic times, MIA has outpatient and in-patient services.
So, log onto www.miayurveda.org to learn more.

An Ayurvedic Approach for Treatment in Eczema – Eczema in Ayurveda

The skin has seven layers. It expands itself to the deeper levels of the body. For this reason, skin diseases have deep-rooted causes; therefore, its remedies also have to be penetrative. Skin diseases are mostly rooted deeply into various dhatus or tissues like fat, muscles, blood etc. Madras Institute of Ayurveda, Chennai provides treatment for eczema in ayurveda

Eczema and Ayurveda–

Eczema is a common skin disease globally. It is explained as a superficial inflammatory skin disease presented with redness, itching, and maybe with papules and vesicles. The common type is atopic eczema. Hereditary and environmental factors play an essential part in the genesis of the disease.

Pesticides and preservatives, incompatible food combinations and ecological pollution–causes failure of body mechanism to detoxify. Therefore, the toxins collected in the system expresses itself as eczema. Stress is not a cause, but undoubtedly an aggravating factor. Severe itching and scratching etc. can cause injury and may result in bacterial infection.

Causes–

Heredity
Cold and hot environments
Soaps and detergents
Upper respiratory tract infections

Signs and symptoms–

*In infants (below two years) –- Intense itching and rashes on scalp and cheeks

*In children (from 2 years to puberty) –- Rashes behind creases of elbow or knees, neck, wrist and ankles. Rashes may become lighten or darken in colour and may thicken.

*In adults – Rashes appear in the crease of elbows and knees. Skin becomes permanently scaly and dry.

Early symptoms–

Rough skin
Discoloration and itching
Fatigue
Signs and Symptoms
Itching
Blackish discolouration
Oozing
Pain
Dryness

treatment for eczema in ayurveda — Women hand scratch the itch on arm, healthcare and medicine concept

Ayurvedic approach—

Unhealthy diet and lifestyle cause vitiation of digestive fire leading to the production of partially digested food gaining toxins or Ama. Ama causes the disease.

Vatha, Pitta and Kapha cause pathological changes of tissues (dhatu) such as Twak (skin), Mamsa (flesh), Rakta (Blood) and water principle of the body. Therefore, in Vicharchika, Kandu (itching) the symptom of Kapha vitiation, Pidaka (pustules, cysts and papules) the sign of Pitta vitiation and Shyavata (erythema with discolouration) the manifestation of Vatha vitiation—are present. If the disease is not treated in the early stages, it will affect the deeper tissues.

Treatment protocol–

Since eczema is a Chronic Disease, detoxification procedures are required to remove the root cause. Therefore, oral medicines for detoxification or purification are necessary for the initial stages. Later on, drugs are used for external application. In the last stage of the ayurvedic treatment for eczema—Rasayanas or Rejuvenation is done to nourish the skin.

Oral medications–

Snehana—Medicated ghee or sesame oil is administered orally. This is done for consecutive seven days.

Sweating—Mild sweating is done three days after Snehana procedure. Since it’s a chronic skin disease, Ayurvedic classics insists that only mild sweating should be applied in this condition.

Vamana—If the patient presents Kapha predominant symptoms such as cold, swelling, oozing and itching, Vamana or medicated vomiting is useful.
Mridu virechana—In general, Mridu virechana or medicated laxatives are given. This procedure is specifically helpful in Pitta predominant conditions, where burning sensation, fever, irritability, puss formation etc. are predominant.
Rakta Shodhana (Bloodletting) and Blood purification—If signs and symptoms are not relieved by the above procedures, the bloodletting by parasites or other tools and techniques are used.
Rasayana for the revitalization of skin—After attaining detoxification of the system skin which is damaged by this chronic disease deserve revitalization. Classically mentioned Rasayana or nourishing drugs are used.

External medications for eczema in ayurveda

Lepa (Herbal Paste)

-A paste made of herbal powders suitable for the patient is applied over the affected area–Here suitable herbal decoctions are poured continuously for a specified time.

-Udvarthana–In the case of rough and thick skin, rubbing with suitable herbal powder is useful.

-Avagaha– Sitting in a big vessel full of herbal decoction for a particular time is useful where significant areas of the body are affected.

-Dhupana–Fumigation with suitable herbs is useful in Vatha and Kapha predominant conditions.

Do’s

Warm bath
Moisturizer, mild soap
Cotton fabrics
Easily digestible food
Bitter vegetables
Green gram

Do No Consume–

Dairy products
Sour food
Jaggery
Black gram
Spicy and fried food
Excess salt
Pickles, Curd, Egg & Nuts

The Madras Institute of Ayurveda (MIA), Chennai, has a complete out-patient department with facilities for consultation in different specialities, regular check-ups and more. It also possesses an in-patient department with up-to-date and well-equipped Panchakarma theatres. Successful treatment programs such as eczema in ayurveda for an entire spectrum of diseases are offered here.

Eczema in ayurveda: Ayurvedic therapies are designed to deliver tangible health benefits in addition to the relaxation they provide to the mind and body. So, log onto www.miayurveda.org for further queries.

An Ayurvedic Path towards Treatment in ‘Osteoarthritis’ – Ayurveda treatment in Chennai

Osteoarthritis (OA) is a deep-rooted condition of the joints in which the cartilage cushioning the ends of the bones loses its elasticity and wears away. The treatment therapies with current conventional medicine typically focus on pain reduction and control of inflammation; however, these approaches do not affect the natural course of the disease. At Madras Institute of Ayurveda, we provide traditional application of medicine as well use modern techniques of Ayurveda treatment in Chennai

Osteoarthritis—is the most common form of arthritis globally, with symptoms ranging from minor discomfort to debility. It can occur in any body’s joints but most often affects the hands and weight-bearing joints.

Causes of Osteoarthritis–

While science has no specific reason for the cause of OA, researchers have identified many factors involved in the development of Osteoarthritis. Some of them include inflammation and imbalances that create stress on the joints and cellular disorders too that lead to the abnormal breakdown of cartilage.

Ayurvedic Treatment–

Ayurveda offers various herbal treatments for Osteoarthritis. The plants have anti-inflammatory properties without side effects. Herbal Ayurvedic therapy is very effective in treating knee osteoarthritis. It provides a “safe and effective treatment alternatives” for OA.

The herbs such as–turmeric, Ashwagandha, ginger, Triphala, Guggulu, and Shatavari, have all been shown to decrease inflammation by interfering with the production of chemicals in the body.

*Boswellia-

Ayurvedic herb Boswellia Serrata, also known as “Indian frankincense”, blocks the enzyme–5-lipoxygenase, that plays a significant role in the formation of chemicals– which stimulate and perpetuate inflammation. People with Osteoarthritis who take Boswellia along with Ashwagandha, turmeric, and zinc report to have relief from joint pain and increased mobility and strength in the joints.

*Turmeric-

Turmeric is a spice that is commonly used in Asian cooking. It is also used orally in traditional Ayurvedic medicine to treat a wide range of ailments, many of which are related to inflammation. The active ingredient in turmeric, curcumin, is shown to inhibit vital inflammation-producing enzymes. thus, disrupting the inflammatory cascade.

*Ashwagandha-

Another Ayurvedic herb, Ashwagandha, has known anti-inflammatory effects. The extract of this herb is found to suppress the production of pro-inflammatory molecules.

*Ginger-

The anti-inflammatory effects of ginger are by large, talked off. Ginger works as an anti-inflammatory agent by interfering with an enzyme that produces chemicals in the body. Ginger has a mild to moderate beneficial effect on OA of the knee.

*Triphala-

Triphala has been used in India for ages–for the treatment of Osteoarthritis. Triphala consists of three herbs (Amalaki, Haritaki, and Bibhitaki). The herbs in Triphala show anti-inflammatory effects.

*Guggulu-

The herb Guggulu has been shown to regulate the body’s inflammatory response. Several studies show decreased inflammation and joint swelling after administration of extracts of Guggulu resin.

*Shatavari-

Shatavari is an Ayurvedic herb that is considered to have a soothing, cooling, and lubricating effect on the body. It has an inhibitory effect on the chemicals that actually create inflammation in the body.

The Benefits of Meditation–

An important principle in Ayurveda is the acknowledgement of the importance of the emotional and spiritual aspects of health and healing. Health is achieved by balancing the body, mind and spirit. Meditation provides a way to achieve the above balance. Mind-Body Practices–such as meditation have value as part of a treatment regimen for chronic pain caused due to various conditions.

Madras Institute of Ayurveda [ MIA] is the centre of Ayurveda treatment in Chennai , where ancient tradition meets modern techniques, ranging from Panchakarma treatment to Rejuvenation treatment. With facilities for a whole range of quality ayurvedic treatments on par with the highest standards and most beautiful traditions dating back to Vedic times, Care begins with an accurate diagnosis, based on which the experts create a customised treatment plan for the disease and not just the symptoms.
Connect with MIA at www.miayurveda.org to learn more.

Ayurvedic treatment for Hyper acidity – Amlapitta

Treating Amlapitta [Hyperacidity] with Ayurveda

Hyperacidity is called Amlapitta in Ayurveda. ‘Amlapitta’ is one of the most common diseases seen in all ages. Hyper acidity refers to an imbalance between the acid-secreting mechanism of the stomach and proximal intestine and the protective mechanism that provide safety. The stomach normally secretes acid that is required in the digestive processes. When there is excess acid production in the stomach, it leads to acidity.

Symptoms for Hyper acidity

Heart burning
Sour belching.
Nausea
Regurgitation of food
Distention of abdomen
Indigestion.
Pain in the abdomen.
Headache.
Foul-smelling loose motions.
Severe burning sensation over feet, hands
Mouth ulcer
Tiredness
Itching all over the body

Causes are—

Diet– (Ahara)

Spicy food like eating samosa, burger, pizza, etc.
Excessive use of chilly, Cinnamon, clove, garlic etc. in diet
Salty and sour foods like chips
Eating fermented foods
Excessive intake of fast food
Intake of Oily foods, pickles etc.
Excessive intake of tea/coffee.
Irregular mealtimes
Incompatible food
Skipping meals.
Eating too late at night

Regimens (Vihara)

Lack of rest, fast-moving lifestyle.
Insufficient sleep at night.
Sleeping immediately after meals.
Suppression of natural urges.

Mental factors

Stressful lifestyle
Excessive anxiety, anger, worry or fear

All the above factors result in a disproportionate increase of ‘Pitta dosha’ in body and exhibit symptoms of Amlapitta.

Prevention – Hyper acidity

As we know– “Prevention is better than cure” it is better to avoid all factors that cause acid-peptic disorder (Amlapitta).

Avoid excessive oily, sour and spicy foods
Avoid heavy foods
Avoid smoking and alcohol intake
Include barley, wheat and green gram in the diet.
Avoid overcooked, stale and contaminated food.
The food must be cooked appropriately
Follow mental relaxation techniques

Basic treatment – Hyper acidity

Avoid causative factors
Palliative treatment — As the disease is of Pitta origin, all measures are undertaken to pacify pitta.
Panchakarma treatment– ‘Panchakarma procedures’ like Vamana (emesis) or Virechana (purgation) should be administered. In chronic cases, Asthapanavasti (medicated enema) is given.

Useful in Amlapitta is —

Shatavari – 3 gms twice a day along with milk
Yashtimadhu – 3 gms twice a day with milk
Amalaki (Indian gooseberry) – 3 gms twice a day with water
Sunthi (dry ginger) – 1- 3 gms twice a day with water

Other Remedies

Drink Coconut water 100-500 ml twice a day.
Take amla powder 3-6 gm with water.
Chew half a teaspoon of fennel seeds after food

Pathya—To do list

Follow proper mealtimes.
Include light food, Coconut water etc.
Include vegetables like white pumpkin, bitter gourd, leafy vegetables
Eat wheat, old rice, barley, green gram, sugar candy and cucumber,
Consume fruits like gooseberry, dry grapes, black grapes, sweet lime, pomegranate and dry figs,
Take adequate fluids like pomegranate juice, lemon juice, amla juice, sweet lime juice, Medicated water with or coriander seeds or puffed rice.
Take Dadimpak (sweet preparation made of pomegranate). Moramba (jam made from amla) and Gulkand (jam made from rose petals) with milk
Take one teaspoonful of ghee with warm milk
Make sure you get adequate sleep & rest
Practice Yoga, meditation & exercise regularly

Apathya—To avoid

Avoid fried and junk food items
Do not remain hungry for too long. Avoid fasting.
Eat small and frequent meals
Avoid untimely and irregular food habit
Avoid foods containing excess amount of garlic, oil, chillies etc.
Do not lay down immediately after food.
Avoid alcohol, tea, coffee and aspirin type drugs.
Most importantly–Avoid stress

Madras Institute of Ayurveda at Chennai offers Authentic Ayurvedic treatment for various diseases and disorders. It’s the right place for those who value comprehensive advice and treatment for Hyper acidity and who want to engage in an Ayurvedic cure for best results. At Madras Ayurvedic Centre, therapies are designed to deliver excellent health benefits in addition to the relaxation provided to the mind and body.
Check out the website www.miayurveda.org for further information.