Ayurveda describes a skin disease as Vicharchika. It is a skin condition with eruptions and itching. Eczema is where a build-up of skin cells cause a scaly and thick rash.

 

Ayurvedic Cure for Eczema

Ayurveda helps to balance the combination of the elements—space, air, fire, water and earth, which are the primary constituents. These elements combine to form the three different basic types of the human constitution or “Doshas” as they are called.

Dietary and lifestyle recommendations are to be classified based on an individual’s Doshas. These conditions are exhibited, when the particular dosha is in excess and is not in a state of harmony.

 

• Vata dosha

The skin tends to be rough, dry, itchy and scaly, constipation, interrupted sleep, anxiety and insomnia. The skin is aggravated by cold, dryness and stress and relieved by the application of oils and ointments. 

 

*Dietary Habits

Suggested diet includes foods that are naturally sweet, sour and salty; warm, freshly cooked foods, spices like ginger, pepper, cinnamon and cumin; warm drinks and fluids like soups and stews and a generous amount of ghee.

Avoid foods that are bitter and pungent; cooling foods like chilled beverages, frozen foods; too much of raw foods like salads, fresh fruits, processed foods; deep-fried foods and foods that contain refined sugar.

 

*Lifestyle

To balance Vata dosha, one needs to introduce warmth, stability and consistency. Setting a daily routine is very important. A gentle exercise routine like yoga, walking and swimming can help. 

 

• Pitta Dosha

The skin is usually inflamed. There is a painful feeling of heat in the body, which may be accompanied by swelling, inflammation in the body or joints and emotions of anger, irritability or frustration. 

 

*Dietary Habits

Eat foods that are sweet, bitter and astringent. Cooling foods like cucumbers and melons are recommended. Herbs like coriander, cilantro, fennel and cardamom and freshly cooked meals are also suggested. A generous amount of ghee is needed too.

Avoid foods that are pungent, sour and salty and chillies, tomatoes, lemons, citrus fruits, deep-fried foods and red meat.

 

*Lifestyle

The right environment for a Pitta individual is dry and cold. Moderate exercises are recommended along with a daily routine for relaxation and other regular activities like eating, sleeping etc.

 

• Kapha Dosha

Here the skin is usually cold, swollen and itchy. This is generally accompanied by lethargy and sluggish metabolism and can lead to depression, fluid retention etc. Cold and damp conditions aggravate Kapha, while warm temperatures help balance this dosha.

 

*Dietary Habits

Include foods that are light, warm and dry. Foods which are astringent and pungent like apples, pears, pomegranates and apricots are useful for balancing the excess Kapha. So, also the herbs and spices like ginger, pepper and black mustard. 

Avoid weighty meals and highly processed foods. Cooked foods are preferable over raw. Also, avoid dairy and limit nuts and seeds.

 

*Lifestyle

It is beneficial to stay warm by limiting exposure to cold air and incorporating exercise routine like jogging, hiking, biking, yoga etc.

One of the essential aspects of Ayurveda for eczema includes detoxification with Panchakarma. Purification helps in removing toxins from within and at the same time calms the mind and the nervous system. The treatment has to be completely customised for an individual and should be done with the help of an ayurvedic practitioner.

 

Traditional Ayurvedic oil massage, herbal steam bath, and Shirodhara are very beneficial in most eczema cases and are carried out as often as desired to promote lymphatic circulation, gently cleanse the system and calm the body and mind.

 

Here are some herbs/roots–beneficial in eczema

• Neem– it clears the heat and toxins from the liver and blood and relieves itching.
• Guduchi [also called Amrit] relieves all three doshas, especially pitta, reducing burning and inflammation.
• Turmeric is a superfood. It is used as a potent anti-inflammatory herb that detoxifies, reduces inflammation, and relieves itching.
• Liquorice is highly anti-inflammatory that soothes the tissues
• Triphala, a traditional Ayurvedic herbal formulation consists of three fruits such as Amalaki, Bibhitaki and Haritaki. It cleanses the entire GI tract, promotes healthy digestion and absorption and improves skin tone.
• Jatamansi is the herb, that calms the mind, replenishes the nervous system, supports and balances all doshas.
• One of the most popular Ayurvedic Herbs-Ashwagandha helps reduce the effects of stress and calms the mind.
• Tikta Ghrita [bitter medicated ghee] purifies the blood, cleanses and regulates proper liver function.

 

The Madras Institute of Ayurveda [MIA], Chennai has a complete out-patient department with facilities for consultation in different specialities and regular check-ups. It also has an in-patient department with well-equipped Panchakarma theatres. Successful treatment plans for various diseases are offered here. MIA was started with the aim of bringing that same genuine treatment with all facilities to a more accessible location.  

So, log on to www.miayurveda,org to learn about the entire treatment plan.

Obesity [Sthaulya]

Obesity is one of the nutritional-lifestyle disorders the developing countries.

It is the accumulation of excess fat in the body that may lead to adverse effects on health, reduced life expectancy and increased health problems. Significant illnesses like Diabetes, Ischemic Heart Disease, Hypertension, Ischemic Stroke, Osteoarthritis, and Cancer may be a cause Overweight and Obesity.

 

Causes of Overweight/ Obesity-

According to Ayurveda, Obesity sets in with the intake of improper food or by the development of improper food habits and lifestyle that result in problems with the digestive fire [Agni], which in turn increases Ama[bio-toxins]. Increased Ama disturbs the metabolic processes to form more fatty tissue (Meda Dhatu Agni). When Ama blocks the channels of all tissues, it creates an imbalance in Vata. Vata stimulates the central digestive fire (Jatharagni), which, in turn, causes increased appetite. Due to Meda Dhavagni Mandya (a weak, fat metabolism), abnormal Meda Dhatu is formed, which is the cause of obesity.

 

The factors involved are–

• Larger portions of energy-rich foods [high in fat and carbohydrates]
• Overeating and Irregular eating habits
• A sedentary lifestyle 
• Genetics, endocrine disorders or other medical conditions 
• Sleeping during the day

 

Consequences of Obesity–

• Lack of interest in work.
• Feeling lethargic always
• Profuse sweating with foul body odour.
• Excessive hunger
• Excessive sleep
• Breathlessness even on little exertion

 

Ayurvedic Management–

Ayurveda describes Atisthaulya (Obesity) as the excessive accumulation of Meda (fat) and Mamsa (muscle tissue) leading to flabbiness of hips and abdomen. Obesity is considered as one of Santarpanottha Vikaras (disease due to excessive calories) in Ayurveda. Medodushti (a disorder of fat metabolism) can be one of the risk factors for Heart Disease.

Aampachan (Eliminating Ama)

Ayurveda suggests that it is tough to lose weight in the presence of Ama. This is why people fail to lose weight even when they limit their food intake. Hence, it is essential to get rid of Ama before working on weight loss techniques.

 

Herbs that are very effective in removing Ama include:

•       

         *Turmeric

         *Trikatu (Ayurvedic combination of ginger, pepper, and Pippali)       

         *Triphala (a combination of Amalaki, Bibhitaki, and Haritaki)

         *Guggulu (herb for effective purification)

 

 Lifestyle modifications should include—

• Mild to Moderate exercise.
• Brisk morning walk for 30 minutes.
• Avoiding excessive sleep.
• Avoid watching TV while having food.
• Avoid Alcohol and Smoking
• Fasting once a week does wonders to the gut and tones the digestive system.

 

Follow—

• Low-fat and low-calorie food items.
• Eat more proteins to stay longer without food.
• Steam or bake vegetables.
• Take small meals frequently to avoid food cravings.
• Drink skimmed milk instead of whole milk.
• Take Healthy foods such as –walnuts, salads, bitter gourd, drumstick, barley, wheat, Green gram (Moong dal), honey (Madhu), Indian Gooseberry (Amla), pomegranate (Anar) skimmed Buttermilk, etc.
• Include cabbage regularly it stops the conversion of sugars to fat.
• Use warm water for drinking.
• Include lemon in the diet and drinks.

 

Do not eat—

• High carbohydrate foods like – potato, rice etc.
• More sugary or sweet products, more dairy products, fried and oily foods, fast foods, excess   salt.

 

At Madras Institute of Ayurveda [MIA], Chennai, ancient ayurvedic treatments for a variety of diseases and disorders are offered. The centre has inpatient and outpatient departments where age-old traditional therapies with modern techniques are performed. It ranges from Panchakarma treatment to rejuvenation treatment. 

So, come to our centre or log on to www.miayurved.org to learn more.

“Thyroid” is an integral part of the endocrine system. The gland produces hormones that regulate the body’s metabolic rate as well as heart and digestive function, muscle control, brain development, mood and bone maintenance. When an imbalance of thyroid hormone occurs in our body, it causes various health problems.

 

Causes of Feeble thyroid functions—

Thyroid imbalance comes about when Ojas [Ojas is the vital energy for the body and mind that is formed from eating clean, nourishing foods for good health], is depleted in the body. As a result, the patient goes through chronic fatigue, tiredness and has weak immunity. Thyroid patients are more susceptible to cough and cold.

 

Thyroid Disorders with their respective Ayurvedic Treatment [Chikitsa]—

Hypothyroidism–

Hypothyroidism may be caused by issues within the thyroid gland that produces an insufficient circulation of the thyroid hormones (T3 and T4). Symptoms show a reduction in metabolism, with the slowing of mental and physical activities. Patients may experience a variety of symptoms e.g.-sensitivity to cold, dryness of the skin, Constipation, Anorexia, Angina pain, Anemia and disordered menstrual function.

Treatment includes a combination of herbal medicines, which is prepared according to the individual health aspects of the patient, along with personalised diet and lifestyle recommendations.

 

Hyperthyroidism–

The excessive production of thyroxine characterises hyperthyroidism. Increase in metabolism causes loss of weight and symptoms such as trembling and sweating of hands. Goitre may also be present. Hyperthyroidism treatment which is a combination of personalised medicines, diet and lifestyle recommendations.

 

Ayurvedic Remedies for Goitre [Thyroid]:

–Jalkumbhi [ an aquatic plant] and drumstick help to improve the level of iodine in the body.

• Dhania (coriander) and Jeerak Siddha Jala help in better recovery from swelling that is sometimes seen in some cases of thyroid problems.
• No raw vegetables, especially Kale, Brussels sprouts, Broccoli and Cauliflower.
• Vitamin D deficiency may trigger thyroid problems. Therefore, exposure to early morning sun is an excellent way to correct the defect. Exercising outdoors in the early morning stimulates thyroid glands, boosts immunity and regulates calcium metabolism.
• It is good to avoid all forms of processed sugar and reduce foods rich in natural sugars.
• Eat food that is rich in Vitamin A such as Green leafy vegetables, fruits like apple and banana.
• Ginger helps in Thyroid so, boil some ginger in water and drink it like tea.

-Kanchanar Guggulu is a fantastic ayurvedic formulation that helps in maintaining the stimulation of thyroid hormones. It also regulates thyroid gland function. Besides, it enhances the   glandular functioning to reduce the swelling caused due to Goitre.

 

The Madras Institute of Ayurveda [MIA] at Chennai, has a full-fledged out-patient department with facilities for consultation in different specialities. It also possesses an in-patient department with well-equipped Panchakarma troupe. Successful treatment programs for a range of diseases are offered. 

Log on to www.miayurveda.org for further information on various treatments. 

Aching knee joints complain, is very common among all age groups. The reason for his being a ton of factors. A sudden injury can cause knee pain, or there could be an underlying condition, such as arthritis, dislocated kneecap and tendonitis, a few to name. The extent of pain depends on the disorder and may vary from person to person. Common symptoms can be unbearable pain in joints, tenderness, stiffness and sometimes an effusion too.

 

Ayurvedic Outlook—

Ancient Ayurveda–uses medicinal herbs to cure knee and joint pain. Ayurveda spots two major joint problems— 

 

Type 1 is associated with ‘Poorly nourished joints’ or low bone density and overall weakness in the joints. When Vyana Vata gets aggravated, this type can occur. It starts with some discomfort, a cracking sound. If not taken immediate care, it can result in eventual immobilisation of the joints. The imbalance in Vyana Vata and the lack of circulation, metabolism and absorption create a drying effect on Shleshaka Kapha (that governs the lubrication of the bones). 

 

Type 2 is related to a ‘Toxic overload in the joints’ and is the result of numerous toxins in the body. ‘Ama’ gets accumulated in the joints and makes the joint stiff and painful to move. If the Ama harbours for a long time, it can result in swollen and painful joints. Ayurveda can give you the best ayurvedic treatment for knee joint pain.

 

The most effective and safe ayurvedic medicine for knee pain is Pirant Oil and Tablets, a herbal formula, which nourishes the bones and joints and supports the tissue of the bones. ‘Pirant’ effectively relieves acute and chronic inflammation of joints and provides relief from morning stiffness. They relax the muscles and reduce inflammation in the joints. Pirant neutralises the toxic effects of Ama, which, according to Ayurveda, is the underlying cause of inflammation. A regular ayurvedic massage with Pirant oil is recommended to prevent joint problems, as it helps settle the ‘Vata dosha’.

Therefore, as you begin to take care of your joint problem by reducing Ama, make sure not let in Ama again.

 

At Madras Institute of Ayurveda [MIA], Chennai, the centre for Ayurvedic medicine and treatment — Ancient Tradition meets Modern Techniques, ranging from Panchakarma treatment to rejuvenation treatment. The centre provides facilities for a whole range of ayurvedic treatments on par with the highest standards and finest traditions. Knee care begins with an accurate diagnosis, based on which the doctors create a customised treatment plan to treat the disease and not just the symptoms.

Contemporary amenities are provided for all types of treatments and therapies including Panchakarma treatment and Kerala Specialty Ayurvedic treatment. With increasing awareness on Ayurveda, the hunt is for right treatment and facilities by qualified therapists. MIA is known to bring genuine Kerala treatment, with all facilities to a more accessible location.

 

So, log on to www.miayurveda.org for any questions on treatment plans.

What is Acid Reflux, and why does it Occur?

Acid reflux occurs when the digestive juices of the stomach enter the oesophagus [the food pipe connecting the mouth and stomach]. This causes heartburn, burping, regurgitation, breathlessness and mild to severe pain below the chest–called Epigastric Pain.    Ayurvedic Approach—

• People with Pitta Imbalance are susceptible to occasional acid indigestion and heartburn. Stress, anger, extra-hot spicy foods, and environmental factors such as heat can worsen the Pitta. A few simple changes in the lifestyle and diet can help bring Pitta to the right balance for more effective digestion and greater calm and contentment. “Pitta’ is the heat energy mainly located in the stomach. Excess intake of heat-producing foods can increase acid production. Pitta-aggravating foods such as tomatoes, citrus fruits, orange juice, salsa, yoghurt (except lassi), onions, garlic, chilli peppers, salty fried foods, and alcohol can upset the digestion. These foods should be avoided entirely until the acid level is brought to a complete balance. 

 

• Do not skip meals. Eating breakfast is highly crucial. Omitting breakfast hurts the Sub dosha of Pitta called Sadhaka Pitta, which governs the emotional heart. It is responsible for contentment and bliss. At lunch, with Agni (the digestive fire) increasing along with stomach acid, an empty stomach is not ideal from the ayurvedic viewpoint. It can cause anger, impatience and be over-hungry. 

 

• Avoid high-stress situations—practice stress-management techniques. Enjoy the natural beauty; it helps to balance Sadhaka Pitta. If you feel uneasy during the day, take a few sips of cold milk on an empty stomach.
• Pomegranate juice also helps balance the acid in the stomach. It tastes sour, but it is astringent and bitter, which can help balance ‘Pitta’.
• Aloe Vera Gel is beneficial to balance pitta. Avoid the store-bought juice, as citric acid is used as a preservative and it is too acidic if you suffer from acid indigestion.
• Roasted Fennel Seeds can be eaten to help settle the stomach and balance digestion. Eat ¼ teaspoon of baked fennel seeds three times a day between meals.
• Rosewater or mint lassi is good with a meal. Split moong, green leafy vegetables, grains, watermelon, honeydew melon, lettuce, mangoes, fenugreek seeds, coriander, cardamom and mint should be included regularly in your diet.

  Madras Institute of Ayurveda, Chennai is the centre of Ayurvedic medicine and treatment in Chennai, where age-old tradition meets modern techniques that range from Panchakarma treatment to Rejuvenation. They provide a whole range of quality ayurvedic treatments, assisted by an accomplished team experienced therapist. Care begins with an accurate diagnosis, based on which the doctors create a specific treatment plan to treat the disease and not just the symptoms.  Log on to www.miayurveda.org to learn more about our treatment plan.

What do we mean by Respiratory Disorders?

Respiratory Disorders are disorders of the lungs. It is an unfortunate state of affairs, as the air we breathe is wholly polluted with dust and harmful gases making our body more prone to sickness.

Causes for Respiratory Disorders—

Obesity –Obesity is prevalent a majority of our population, causing respiratory problems in many ways. Obesity weakens our immunity that leads to many other diseases.

Dietary habits – Consumption of fast food & improper eating habits ultimately leads to indigestion & constipation issues which in turn lowers the immunity of the body making a person fall prey to the infections present in the environment.

Air pollution – Air pollution makes our body’s -immunity very poor. It increases the risk of infections & allergies that cause breathing problems and is one of the essential reasons behind most of the respiratory disorders.

Smoking – Smoking has been estimated to cause about 2/3 of all lung cancers and half of the chronic respiratory diseases worldwide.

Respiratory infections are best treated with Ancient Ayurveda—

Ayurvedic herbs help to overcome respiratory disorders. Ayurveda has a magical power that can eliminate and ultimately destroy the root cause of diseases. It balances the internal functions & hormonal disturbances to avoid any further issues in the future.

Special Ayurvedic herbs & Panchakarma therapies are very beneficial in rejuvenating the body. Various herbs are provided to the patients in the form of capsules, powders & syrups to boost the immunity and make them more defensive against infections and viral attacks.

The prominent herbs for supporting a healthy bronchial response are—
The peppercorns (black pepper and pippali) are long-term lung tissue builders and detoxifiers. It does an excellent job in keeping the airways open over time.
Liquorice is another herb that supports the proper functioning of the lungs and adrenals. It supports a healthy immune response and elimination of natural toxins from the liver.
Calming herbs such as turmeric may help in stressful situations when the bronchial system is overworked. Turmeric can calm down the bronchial system, especially when mixed with coriander and cumin.
Bitter herbs such as turmeric and dandelion support the reduction of a long-term accumulation of mucus.
Pungent herbs as black pepper, garlic, cinnamon, cloves, and ginger, help reduce the consistency of the mucus, making it easier to breathe.
A combination of the fruits such as Amalaki, Haritaki and Bibhitaki is the classic decoction.
Kaphapitta Shamaka [reduces vitiated Kapha and Pitta], is one of the coldest and most bitter herbs in Ayurveda.
Vasaka Leaf, a famous Ayurvedic herb, is very useful in lung infections.
A syrup made from the combination of Vasaka leaf, Liquorice root, tulsi leaf, ginger root, Haritaki fruit, pippali fruit, and peppermint is beneficial.
Talisadi and Sitopaladi are other such herbs that are an excellent addition since they focus on immunity build.
Fortunately, the body desperately wants to keep the lungs healthy, so let’s work with the body’s priorities to heal these lung problems.
At Madras Institute of Ayurveda [MIA]—the Herbal Ayurveda and Panchakarma Centre, there is an Out-patient Department with facilities for consultation in different areas, regular check-ups and more. It also possesses an in-patient department with well-equipped Panchakarma theatres. Successful treatment options for an entire spectrum of diseases are offered. A correct diagnosis is essential before starting the treatment.

So, log on to www.miayurveda.org for any questions or concerns you may have.

Ayurvedic pharmacy introduces two good friends, “Ashwagandha and Brahmi”, that work together to keep the body calm and support the mind. The Ayurvedic chemistry includes Gunas [Qualities], of the herbs and the Shakti [energy] of a remedy preparation. 

 

Caring for the Nerves—One becomes entangled with unprocessed thoughts, and feelings [what we call Ama, or “Goo” in Ayurveda], which can be from grief, trauma, or just the byproduct of overextended stress. It can produce a general dullness or numbness in mind. Here is where the two Ayurvedic herbs-Ashwagandha and Brahmi come into play!

Our Nervous System impacts every breath, feeling, decision, and experience in our lives. We generally tend to focus our attention on the imbalances of the physical body, but Ayurveda claims the mind to be the root cause of all shortcomings. 

 

Ashwagandha and Brahmi are the two Herbal Warriors that support the nervous system: 

 

• Ashwagandha brings warmth, vitality, and strength. The root is the part that’s most often used in herbal preparations to support the nervous system. It is the combination of the word Ashva, meaning horse, and Gandha, meaning smell, so translated it means “smell of a horse” or the essence of a horse, alluding to the fact that it can give us strength and stamina just like a stallion! 

 

This herb naturally aids the nervous system, helping us maintain the vigour to process stressful experiences, supporting our concentration, and helping to fuel our bodies with the energy needed to run the system. Other uses include rejuvenation of the nervous system and brain cells, memory support, combatting stress and immune support.

 

• Brahmi is more cooling in nature yet also an excellent tonic for the nervous system. Brahmi, like ashwagandha, also helps our nervous system to withstand emotional stress and improves our capacity to focus. It brings more support to our mind’s ability to learn and remember! Brahmi is bitter, light, and oily. In Ayurveda, this means it has a general “building” or brahmana quality, which makes it an excellent rejuvenator for the nervous system, immune system, and the mind. 

 

These two beautiful herbs will each offer the nervous system the strength to stay focused. The combination of pungent and bitter qualities support concentration and learning. 

 

When dealing with grief, depression, or anxiety, a daily massage with Ashwagandha or Brahmi sesame seed oil helps feel more at ease, supported my nervous system, and provides a sense of deep compassion and nourishment for the mind, body, and soul. Brahmi in the summer and ashwagandha for winter. 

For any additional questions about ashwagandha, Brahmi, or abhyanga in general, talk to an Ayurvedic doctor at ‘The Madras Institute of Ayurveda’ [MIA], Chennai. MIA offers a wide range of various ailment treatments. 

Log on to www.miayurveda.org for more information.

In Ayurveda, Goiter is called ‘Galaganda’. Goitre is the enlargement of the ‘Thyroid Gland’ that results in the swelling of the throat region. Usually, goitre is painless, but if it becomes too large, it starts causing difficulty in swallowing and breathing. Goitre may be or may not be associated with the actual Thyroid Dysfunctions.

 

Causes of Goitre—

Goitre is caused due to iodine deficiency. Other factors such as exposure to radiations, pregnancy, family history of autoimmune disease, cigarette smoking, and some bacterial, viral and fungal infections may also cause goitre. 

 

Some Common Symptoms are—

• Hoarseness of voice
• Cough
• Swelling
• A feeling of heaviness in the body

 

Treating Goiter with Ayurveda–

According to Ayurveda, Galaganda is caused by ‘Vitiated Kapha’, though sometimes vata might also be involved. Vitiated Kapha mixes with Meda Dhatu (fat tissue), creating swelling in the throat, which is called Galaganda. It’s classified into three types, viz. Vataj, Kaphaj and Medoj-

—Vataj Galaganda (caused mainly by vitiated Vayu) is slightly painful and is marked by dryness and tastelessness in the mouth. 

—Kapha Galaganda (caused primarily to vitiated Kapha) is large and cold to touch, causes very little pain and feels sweet in the mouth. 

—Medoj Galaganda (caused mainly by vitiated Meda Dhatu) has an offensive odour and may cause staggering speech and oiliness in the mouth.

 

Lifestyle changes and Diet Advice—

• Consume adequate quantity of iodine every day. For adults, the daily requirement of iodine is 150 mcg.
• Codfish, milk, yoghurt, locally grown fruits, vegetables and eggs are rich sources of iodine. They should be consumed in adequate quantity.
• Include–Iron-rich foods(like onion, garlic, carrot), Vitamin A rich foods (papaya, mango, sweet potato) and Vitamin B rich foods(like guava, okra, nuts) regularly.
• Foods such as spinach, soya beans and peanuts should be minimized, especially by those who are more at risk.
• Neck exercises and Yoga (especially those which mobilizes the neck region) should be performed.
• Sedentary lifestyle and mental stress can disturb the thyroid function. Therefore, the practice should be to follow a healthy and relaxed lifestyle.
• Level of thyroid hormones should be checked at least once a year.

 

Come to our Ayurvedic Center — “The Madras Institute of Ayurveda” at Chennai, to learn more about Ayurvedic treatment plans. This centre has facilities for a whole range of ayurvedic treatments. It mimics the Authentic Kerala Chikitsalaya [ Treatment Center]. 

For any queries, you may have, log on to www.miayurveda.org.

Constipation, as we all know, is one of the most common health issues. A day without a complete bowel movement can be unpleasant and painful.

What Is constipation, and what does it do to the human body?

Constipation is a Vata condition that expresses qualities like dryness and hardness. It occurs when Vata’s cold and dry qualities disturb the colon, interfering proper functioning. It is caused due to insufficient fibre in the diet, inadequate water intake, lack of exercise and numerous other factors. Constipation may increase chances of distension and discomfort, flatulence and pain, and headache and bad breath.

 

Reasons for Constipation–

Constipation is usually caused by not paying attention to nature’s call in time. A sedentary lifestyle, irregular eating habits, a disturbed and worried mind, and drinking too much tea or coffee adds up to already sluggish digestion, eventually causing constipation.

 

Ayurveda suggests the following to cure constipation—

*Vata Dosha Pacifying Diet—One of the best ways to prevent constipation is to follow ‘Vata Balancing Diet’. Do not consume cold foods and drinks, dried fruit, salads and beans. Consume only warm foods, warm beverages and well-cooked vegetables.

*Triphala Is The Remedy–-One of the most trusted and most effective remedies is Triphala, that helps cure constipation. Consume Triphala tea or take one-fourth of a teaspoon of it, half teaspoon of coriander seeds and one-fourth teaspoon of cardamom seeds. Grind them and have twice a day. Triphala has laxative properties, and cardamom and 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 very effective and gentle means of relieving constipation. 

*Liquorice Root—Take a teaspoonful of Liquorice root powder and add a teaspoon of jaggery. Drink this with a cup of warm water. Liquorice or Mulethi is known to promote bowel activity.

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

*Figs [Anjeer]—Fresh and dry Figs are highly recommended due to the presence of its high fibre content. You can eat figs every day to keep your digestion going.

 

Bid goodbye to constipation by following this simple advice—

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

– Consume a fibre-rich diet every day.

– Exercise at least 30 minutes daily to help kick-start your metabolism.

– Include lots of seasonal fruits and vegetables to add up to the bulk.

 

The Madras Institute of Ayurveda – Centre for treatment in Chennai, where age-old tradition meets modern techniques, ranges from ‘Panchakarma treatment to Rejuvenation treatment’. There are facilities for a whole range of quality ayurvedic treatments, with the highest standards dating back to Vedic times. This Institute was established to bring the same genuine treatment with all facilities to a more accessible location. 

So, feel free to log on to www.miayurveda.org to learn more about the procedures this centre offers.

 

 

 

 

• It is very much necessary to form a habit of evacuating early morning. Regular physical exercise is also important for having clear bowels. One should try to have relaxed mind, free from anxiety, stress etc.

Absolute No-nos! :

• –Pasteurized milk
• –Cooked eggs
• –Overcooked Meats
• –Refined starch.

Allergies are not fun to handle. They spell out discomfort for those of us who already suffer from allergies.
So, what are Allergies?
According to Ayurveda—an allergy is the result of an allergen- aggravating a specific Dosha: Vata, Pitta, or Kapha.
Ayurveda describes allergies according to dosha, depending on which one gets triggered in any given case. The pitta-predominant individual is likely to develop a pitta type of allergy, whereas a Kapha-predominant individual is likely to suffer from a Kapha type.
Let’s understand the three types of allergies identified in the Ancient Ayurvedic—

*Vata-Type Allergies
Vata types of allergies are commonly experienced in the digestive tract and include symptoms such as burping, gastrointestinal discomfort, gurgling intestines, abdominal pain, wheezing, headache, sneezing, sciatica, muscle spasms and other Vata-type discomforts.
Vata imbalances can cause food sensitivities to –raw foods, many beans (black beans, pinto beans etc.), and some animal protein, like pork.
–Balancing Vata
When Vata is aggravated, it is essential to slow down, keep warm, stay hydrated, and eat a Vata pacifying diet. Vata type of allergies often gets better with the intake of ginger or liquorice teas with an added drop of ghee. As the place of Vata is in the colon, one very effective therapy for balancing Vata-type allergies is a Dashamula tea enema.

*Pitta-Type Allergies
Pitta type of allergies usually occurs when the allergen comes in contact with the skin, slowly entering the blood. Pitta-type of allergies is often skin-based reactions such as itching, allergic dermatitis, eczema, rashes and may also involve bloodshot eyes. Pitta allergies can also cause heartburn, acid indigestion, stomach issues, nausea, or even vomiting.
Pitta can cause food sensitivities to hot spicy dishes, citrus fruits, tomatoes and fermented foods.
–Balancing Pitta
For Pitta type of allergies, it is advisable to eat a Pitta pacifying diet. Natural formulas that specifically support the blood can also be beneficial– a mixture of Manjistha and Neem. Mix one-part Manjistha with one-part Neem; take ½ teaspoon of the mix in warm water three times per day, after meals.

*Kapha Type Allergies
Kapha type allergies are most likely to be a cause of pollen-based allergens. The symptoms include irritation of the mucous membranes, hay fever, colds, congestion, sinus infection, bronchial congestion, asthma, and even sleeping disorders. Kapha can cause food sensitivities to dairy products like milk, yoghurt or cheese.
–Balancing Kapha
It is good to keep warm and dry, stay active, and eat a Kapha friendly diet. Clarifying teas such as ginger, cinnamon, cardamom, etc., can help to eliminate excess Kapha. Using local honey as a sweetener helps to cleanse the system. Trikatu, in tablet form, can also be supportive. Besides, Punarnava very effectively clears excess Kapha from the chest and stomach, promoting proper fluid balance in the tissues.
Panchakarma is also a very effective means of clearing accumulated Kapha from the system.

Here are some useful ayurvedic approaches to help stop allergies—
* Use a Neti pot, with a weak saline solution and distilled water, to loosen up the heaviness of Kapha. This also helps remove allergens that may be sticking to the mucous membranes.
* Practice Nasya: Dab a little sesame oil with eucalyptus or camphor in each nostril about an hour after using the neti pot.
*Take Trikatu, a combination of black pepper, long pepper, and ginger, before meals to heat the Agni (digestive fire).
* Avoid cold foods and drinks, including dairy, wheat, meat and iced drinks, as they can slow down the digestion and dampen the Agni.
*Eat warm, light, natural, cooked foods that are easy to digest. Focus on fresh, organic vegetables and fruits. Cook vegetables with a little bit of ghee or olive oil to soothe the mucous membranes.
* Include ginger tea throughout the day, as it helps the digestive fire.
* Take Triphala tablets at night to help rid the body of excess toxins that can cause slow digestion. The Ayurvedic trio of Amalaki, Haritaki, and Bibtaki, derived from fruits, works to cleanse and strengthen the system.
* Exercise daily to help stimulate Agni and eliminate Ama.

At ‘The Madras Institute of Ayurveda, Chennai, treatments for various ailments are offered. This ancient system of medicine heals in a very natural and holistic way. Benefits of Ayurveda go way beyond just relief. Treatment type is customized and integrates the age-old traditions into a daily routine (Dinacharya) and seasonal routine (Ritucharya) to help cure and prevent recurrence of any illnesses.
Log on to www.miayurveda.org to learn more about Ayurveda and its beneficial treatments.