How Effective Is Ayurveda for Paralysis Management?

Paralysis is a condition that completely derails the normal functioning of specific muscles or almost the entire muscular system. The complete loss of mobility of the affected area is the result of interference in the nerve impulse transmission from the brain across all the muscles of the body. Ayurveda terms paralysis as pakshaghat. There are different types of pakshaghat depending on the affected regions of the body. Today’s stressful life has indeed contributed to increasing incidence of paralysis. What causes paralysis? How can we use Ayurveda for paralysis management effectively? Let’s find out

What are the types of paralysis?

Paralysis can affect the entire body, sarvang pakshaghat, or specific portions of the body, such as the face, one side of the body, the face, the limbs, or the trunk and limbs. Each type of paralysis has a specific term – from monoplegia to hemiplegia.

What are the symptoms?

A critical characteristic of paralysis is loss of all voluntary movements in the affected part, along with muscle stiffness and painful spasms. In certain conditions it affects speech and other activities of daily living, leading to depression.

What causes paralysis?

Ayuveda considers paralysis to be an imbalance of the vata roga. Since vata roga is responsible for coordinating movements of the body, any imbalance caused by vata roga will affect the muscular movement. The core issue in paralysis is the lack of communication between the nervous system and the muscular system. The condition can affect the entire body or can be localized. It can also be a lifelong condition or a temporary setback. Paralysis often results from worsening of other pre-existing conditions, such as stroke or high blood pressure, head injury, autoimmune disorders such as multiple sclerosis, transient ischaemic attack, cerebral palsy, exposure to toxins such as botulin, or even sudden mention stress. Today’s stress-prone lifestyle is also a critical cause of increasing incidents of paralysis.

In most of these conditions, the smooth flow of blood to the brain is affected, so the brain does not receive the oxygen and other critical nutrients that it needs. Hence the nerve cells weaken and die. This leads to a complete lack of communication with the muscles in the region that are connected to these nerve cells. Often the nature of the symptoms provides a clear indication of the specific nerves that are affected and the cause of the paralysis.

What are the options in Ayurveda for paralysis management?

Ayurveda approach focuses on regaining the vata roga balance and correcting the patient’s lifestyle. My treatment plan depends on the specific patient’s condition, the type of paralysis, the cause, the person’s physical and mental strength and other details. Hence at my Ayurveda hospital in Chennai, my first step is a detailed assessment of the patient and planning a condition-specific protocol. Each patient requires a unique treatment approach, which includes panchakarma treatment, pizhichil, shirovasti, food, medications, and long-lasting lifestyle changes. This is certainly a slow process and the time to rehabilitation will vary from person to person, and definitely on the extent of disruption that paralysis has caused to the body. Here is a quick summary of the specific advantages each treatment protocol can achieve.

Panchakarma is critical for complete detoxification, improvement of circulation, and enhancement of muscular strength. However, it is physically taxing. Hence, we Ayurveda doctors first assess the patient’s fitment before proceeding to this treatment modality.

Other physical treatments include abhyangam, pizhichil, shirodhara, sarvangadhara, and other approaches that use the power of three techniques, medicated oils and fluids, steam, and massage. Expert therapists can use strict techniques to stimulate muscles, nerve endings, circulation, mind, and body over a period of time, reducing stress and increasing wellness.

Internal medications focus on restoring the body’s agni and strengthening the nerves and muscles, along with rasayanas that stimulate body nourishment and pacify the vata.

Food intake is monitored and controlled strictly, allowing warm food and fluids and completely banning junk food and cold food intake. Strict adherence to meal times and eating healthy and fresh food makes a world of difference.

Lifestyle changes are specific to the person’s health, body constitution and living conditions, controlling the sleep cycle, extent of activity, relaxed environment, and stress-free living options.

When you choose Ayurveda for paralysis management, you must understand that there is no one treatment option that will bring any magic cure. It is a long process and the result depends on the patient’s current condition and individual situation. Hence always go in for a detailed assessment with an experienced Ayurveda doctor instead of blindly jumping into treatment options as intense as panchakarma treatment. This condition requires a lot of patience and dedicated effort by the right expert.

Contact me for any questions you have about approaches in Ayurveda for paralysis. You can connect with me at http://www.miayurveda.org/ or call me at +91-9444615161.

Sirolepa – An Effective Ayurveda Treatment for Scalp and Head-Related Conditions

Sirolepa directly translates as an application to the head. Also called pothichal, this treatment is an extremely procedure that Ayurveda doctors prescribe for scalp and head-related conditions, from simple headache and dandruff cure to even supplementary care for hemiplegia and mental disorders. A simple application of a paste of herbal formulations across the entire scalp and allowing the medications to permeate through the scalp for a specific period for more than one session can have a significant effect on the body and mind. Sirolepa is one of the most common procedures that I recommend for my patients visiting my clinic in Chennai, especially for its calming effect. Let’s find out a little more about Sirolepa.

Benefits of Sirolepa

Sirolepa shows incredible benefits in curing conditions such as headache, dandruff, and other conditions affecting the hair and scalp such as graying of hair and hair fall. It also shows incredible improvement in case of facial paralysis, disorders of the eye, and even scalp disorders, as well as ear-, nose-, and throat related disorders. The procedure helps in sharpening vision and helping cure insomnia. However, one of its other predominant effects is that the treatment keeps the body and mind calm and peaceful, removing fatigue and anxiety. An interesting application of Sirolepa is in enhancing memory power and managing mental disorders such as vertigo, depression, hyperactivity, and Alzheimer’s disease by using potent medications in the form of pastes during the procedure. Overall this procedure is useful for vata rogas and pitta rogas.

Procedure followed for Sirolepa

There are many simple variants of the Sirolepa; however, the overall procedure is common. As a first step, the therapist first performs a gentle head massage with herbal oil. This process lasts for about 15 minutes. After this preparatory step, the main process begins. The therapist now prepares a herbal formulation in the form of a paste. The main ingredients depend on the type of condition the patient has and the purpose of the treatment. The decision about the specific medicinal herbs and the carrier oil is taken by the Ayurveda doctor after a thorough examination of the patient.

The commonly used herbs include amla, rasanadi, shikakai, triphala, brahmi, and bringaraka. The carriers are usually ghee or buttermilk or any other potent carrier. The therapist prepares a finely ground paste and places the paste all over the scalp evenly, ensuring that every part of the scalp is covered with a thick layer. The entire scalp is then covered with a fresh banana leaf or lotus leaf, which is tied securely. The therapist then waits for 15 minutes for all the medications to seep through and enter the blood stream through the scalp. The banana leaf is then removed and the entire paste is removed and the excess oil wiped off or washed away. Rice bran water is sometimes used for this process. The overall procedure takes about 60 to 90 minutes.

In some variants of this process, a thin muslin cloth is tied over the forehead, so that the paste does not seep through to the eyes. As a last step the therapist gives a warm water bath to the patient.

Sirolepa is not recommended as a one-time procedure. It is repeated across 2 to 3 weeks, with definite period of rest between two sessions. Only then will the patient observe considerable benefits. However, please be sure to consult an expert Ayurveda doctor who can perform a detailed diagnosis and recommend just the right mode of Sirolepa, in terms of the herbal formulation, for you.

Contact me for any questions you have about Sirolepa. You can connect with me at http://www.miayurveda.org/ or call me at +91-9444615161.

Nourish Your Digestive Agni with Ayurveda-Based Approaches Based on Your Body Constitution

Agni means fire, but Agni is also the core source, responsible for creating and nourishing life. Agni or fire is hence critical for Ayurveda, and is one of the five structural elements or building blocks of the human body. One important responsibility of fire is nourishment or digestion. A healthy digestive system ensures a strong digestive agni and hence a well-balanced mind, body, and soul. However the approach to proper nourishment to protect your agni varies between vata-, pitta-, and kapha-dominant personalities. What are the ideal food habits that you need to follow for these three different types of people? How can these habits promote your digestive agni? Let’s find out.

Ideal food habits for Vata-dominant people

Vata indicates warmth; hence people whose vata roga is predominant must focus on consuming warm food that is cooked well. They must stay away from cold and even uncooked food. Ensure that you maintain a healthy gap between meals and eat small amounts across multiple times rather than stuff your digestive system with heavy and unhealthy food. This regular approach of feeding the human body with healthy food will benefit a vata-type personality.

Recommended foods include soups, well-cooked food, rice and other grains, butter, nuts, oils, and juicy fruit. Avoid salads and similar raw and cold food that’s drying, including apples. Reduce your intake of legumes and ensure that you soak them overnight to reduce the flatulence they cause. Limited intake of milk and other dairy products are also recommended.

Ideal food habits for Pitta-dominant people

Pitta is all about fire and their bodies are primarily warm. As a result these individuals have a pretty strong digestive system and fast metabolism. Although they can manage most food items, they should ideally stay away from salty and sour food and items that increase the body heat further. These lucky individuals can afford to add considerable sweet, cool, and raw food like salad in their diet. Most grains including rice and wheat, dairy products, and most vegetables are good for them. Very few items such as garlic, hot spices, excess salt and sour fruits and vegetables should be avoided. Of course, lime can be added. Although their digestive system is strong, they should reduce the intake of legumes and oil, except coconut oil.

Ideal food habits for Kapha-dominant people

People with kapha-dominant personality have high immunity but their rate of metabolism is slow; hence they have a high tendency to put on weight. So their food intake must help them take their mind off food and focus on health. This means they should include more of bitter-tasting food in their diet. These individuals must be extremely careful about what they eat, avoiding fatty and fried food, heavy dairy, and grains. Focus on grains such as millet and barley, vegetables from above the ground, and raw and steamed food. Avoid excessive sweets, nuts, and legumes. Limit salt intake and heavy food. The focus is to eat light.

General Ayurveda-based recommendations to nourish your digestive agni

Avoid snacking between meals – give your body time to assimilate each meal before going to the next
Prepare your digestive system for a meal by taking warm fluids
Eat smaller amounts but for more number of times across a day and eat only when you are hungry
Breakfast and lunch can be heavier than dinner – ensure that dinner is always light
Focus on what you eat – chew your food well and enjoy what you eat
Make it a point to add spices and ingredients such as turmeric, pepper, ginger, and cumin, which have carminative, antiseptic, and weight loss effects
After eating enable your digestive tract to breakdown the food and absorb nutrients; hence avoid sleeping after a meal
Detoxify your digestive system regularly with cleansing through fasting and smart dieting

These approaches will not only nourish your digestive agni but also help you avoid hurting your digestive system and your entire body. You will need the support of your trusted Ayurveda doctor to assess what your body type is and then follow a specific and dedicated diet model. Contact me for any further questions you may have about planning your diet. You can connect with me at http://www.miayurveda.org/ or call me at +91-9444615161.

What’s Vata, Pitta, and Kapha Roga all about?

I just realized that we have spoken a lot about different forms of health conditions, treatment modalities, natural ingredients, and living healthy the Ayurveda way. But we never really spoke about what vata, pitta, and kapha roga is all about. These three terms form the fundamental core of Ayurveda. Interestingly, according to Ayurvedic principle every matter across the universe is a combination of five critical elements – earth, air, water, fire, and ether. What are these five elements? How are they related to vata, pitta, and kapha roga? Why do these three rogas need to be in sync for a healthy body? Let’s find out.

The five elements and their relation to vata, pitta, and kapha roga

Each of the five elements represents a specific state of matter, which in Ayurveda is not restricted to solid, liquid, and gas. Ether is another name for the space between matter, which is often considered the basic foundation of matter. Air represents the gaseous state, where matter is free to move in the ether. Fire represents the heat generated from the collision of matter, while water represents the liquid form of matter and earth the solid form. As per Ayurvedic principles, every human body has each of these five elements embedded within it and these elements contribute towards creating a person’s unique body constitution. However, the body in addition to these structural elements requires functional elements to perform its routine activities. These functional elements are the vata, pitta, and kapha roga. Hence each individual has a varying percentage of contribution from each of the five structural elements and each of the three functional elements, energies, or rogas. This combination is unique for every individual and hence determines the health quotient, type of body, mental makeup, and tendency for illness for each person.

How does the balance of the three rogas influence the human body?

Although a healthy body is said to have a clear balance of the three rogas, or the functional energies of the body, one type of roga is often found to have a slightly dominant effect. The type and extent of dominance of a specific roga will determine a person’s propensity for a specific type of illness, state of mind, energy levels, digestive strength, etc. So let’s look at the characteristic of each type of roga.

Vata roga

Vata roga focuses on air and ether. Hence, their primary areas of control include respiration, circulation, intestines, ears, bones, pelvic bone region, etc. When vata roga is not in balance the individual has a tendency for anxiety-related disorders, dry skin, and digestive issues. These individuals are usually thin, with sharp thinking.

Pitta roga

Pitta is associated with the two opposing elements, fire and water. These are mainly associated with the digestive system and control the stomach and small intestines. Interestingly, they also influence the hormonal action, influencing the skin, sweat glands and even the circulatory system. People with a pitta-based imbalance are prone to digestive disorders such as ulcers and heart burn. They also have a tendency to develop heart disorders. These individuals often have a strong personality.

Kapha roga

Kapha roga is connected to earth and water, which means that this functional element supports growth and nourishment, strengthening the body, especially the spine and chest areas. People with a propensity for kapha are prone to have trouble with chest congestion, sinus complications, and are even prone to diabetes. Their nature is usually calm and composed, and these individuals tend to put on weight easily.

How can you find out what your primary nature is?

Every individual has a propensity of one of the three rogas and to a certain percentage. This value will provide you and your Ayurveda doctor a clear idea about your body, your personality, your tendency to develop illness, and your likes and dislikes. Very often, when you visit an Ayurveda hospital, your Ayurveda doctor will hold your pulse for a very long time and listen in. This is because in Ayurveda there are more than 10 points on your wrist where the pulse can be felt. Each of these pulses will determine the status of your body and mind. Your Ayurveda doctor will also ask you many questions about your routine, habits, health issues, and diet. In addition, the examination will involve the doctor evaluating your skin, eyes, nails, tongue, and other parts of your body. This assessment take quite a long time; however, it always provides your Ayurveda doctor with a clear idea of your roga balance. It will also help your doctor find out the specific roga that is dominant and imbalanced. With this information, your doctor can with confidence determine not just the balance of your functional elements but your structural elements, or your body constitution. This will also bring out your current health conditions and your body and mind’s propensity to develop specific conditions in future.

Vata, pitta, and kapha roga – the key to finding what your body thinks

The next time you visit your Ayurveda doctor and wonder why the initial assessment is taking so long, please remember it is this detailed assessments that brings out hidden conditions. It also tells your doctor about you or rather, which roga is predominant in you and what this means for your health. So when your Ayurveda doctor asks you about your emotions, sleep habits, food habits, physical activity, or other such questions, ensure that you give the right answers. This will help your doctor make the perfect diagnosis, and focus on delivering the ideal treatment plan, diet plan, and lifestyle recommendations. Contact me for any further questions you may have about the three rogas. You can connect with me at http://www.miayurveda.org/ or call me at +91-9444615161.

The Magical Healing Effect of Dinesavalyadi – One of the most Potent Ayurveda Solutions for Skin Conditions

Dineshavalli or the red creeper is an unassuming climber found commonly across India, which is woody in nature. It is large, with a thick and leafy spread. The bark of this creeper is what is precious in Ayurveda, creating Dinesavalyadi formulations in kuzhambu and thailam forms. Dinesavalyadi is a blessing for those with skin problems, but it also has many other benefits. However, most of its applications are external. Many of my patients at my Ayurveda hospital are in awe of the power of dinesavalyadi in curing skin conditions, from a simple wound to infections such as herpes and allergies. Hence, I thought I could introduce the benefits of Dinesavalyadi to all of you.

Benefits of dinesavalyadi

The medicated thailam and kuzhambu forms of dinesavalyadi find mentions in Sahasrayoga. It is said to have two primary effects – curing twak doshas, or skin conditions, and enhancing varna, or improving complexion. Hence, this oil is extremely sought after for dermatological conditions and beauty treatments. From an Ayurvedic point of view these formulations help regain the kapha and pitta roga balance in case of wounds and other skin problems. Its various applications include the following

Easy healing of wounds
Enabling improved skin complexion
The soothing effect in case of skin allergies such as allergic dermatitis
Effective management of skin infections such as herpes and abscesses
Controlling itching in case of insect bites
Reverting the effect of suntan
Management and cure of conditions such as psoriasis and eczema

With zero side effects for the external application, dinesavalyadi kuzhambu and thailam is indeed an ideal solution for most of your skin conditions. Simple and hassle-free application and easy combination with other forms of treatment modalities such as abhyangam or internal Ayurveda or even Allopathic medications make this formulation a popular choice.

Common combinations

Coconut oil is a critical carrier and foundation that delivers all the benefits of dinesavalyadi. Most preparations of dinesavalyadi include three parts a liquid, a paste, and an oil. In most cases, the extract from the bark of dinesavalli is used, with coconut oil as the vehicle. The preparation also includes other active ingredients such as punarnava. Among the two common forms, the kuzhambu is thicker and includes many more ingredients.

Although dinesavalyadi formulations hardly show any side effects and have direct and clear benefits, you would definitely need the help of an Ayurveda doctor to be sure that you indeed require the benefits that dinesavalyadi can provide. Contact me for any further questions you may have about dinesavalyadi. You can connect with me at http://www.miayurveda.org/ or call me at +91-9444615161.

It can be used for a long period of time on a daily basis. Discuss with an experienced practitioner

Easy and Effective Winter Care with Ayurvedic Solutions

I never thought I would ever be providing Chennaiites with winter care solutions! But this winter is turning out to be quite cold and dry. I am receiving many inquiries at my Ayurveda hospital in Chennai, seeking a solution for some of the common winter-related complications, from flu and infection to joint-related disorders. Hence, I thought I could pull out some of the most effective Ayurveda solutions that can help you stay healthy during tropical winters!

What are the common winter health complications?

Most of the health-related issues in winter are because of imbalances in vata, and sometimes kapha roga. Vata is associated with the words cold and dry; hence ensure that you balance vata roga by incorporating warm and moisturizing elements in your routine. Some of the common complications include the following.

Dryness of the skin

Lack of winter care completely strips out all moisture from the skin, leading to scaly and even broken skin. It often leads to intense itchiness, which is also confused with skin allergies. The dryness extends to the joint fluids also – this irritates most body joints, leading to numbness, severe pain, and even limited joint movement. Winter often sees an increase in such complaints. This dryness also attacks the sinuses, exacerbating the condition in those who are prone to sinus complaints.

Flu and other infections

The heavy atmosphere often leads to the irritants and contaminants hanging low in your immediate environment. As a result, flu and other contamination-related contagious conditions are on the rise. The mucus secretion also increases during this season, leading to related infections. Allergic conditions such as asthma are also on the rise during this season owing to the same reason – the allergens are present in the heavy air around the immediate environment.

Digestive complications

Interestingly, our digestive system is quite active during this climate, yet it increases our digestive complications. The reason is our increased hunger, which often prompts us to eat unhealthy or junk food that are tough to digest. This leads to digestive conditions that are entirely avoidable in the first place.

How can you ensure proper winter care with Ayurveda?

Many Ayurvedic solutions can provide you the much-needed relief in winter. The core focus of Ayurveda is to improve nourishment and build immunity – whether it is for your skin, body, or even hair. Rasayanas that rejuvenate your body and mind, building immunity and strengthening your digestive power, are a favorite. The other approaches include a smart combination of physical procedures, internal medications, food, and lifestyle changes.

Abhyangam

Abhyangam is one of the best ways to beat dryness of the skin. Avoid heating the oil excessively and stick to lukewarm coconut, sesame, or other oils that your Ayurveda doctor prescribes. Massages during the mornings are quite effective as they add a protective moisturizing coating on the skin, improve blood circulation, and even reduce stress by calming the nerves. This procedure is also effective in promoting joint movements and in detoxification. So not only do you enjoy a soft, glowing skin in winter, but you can also benefit from clean and fresh internal systems

Using lukewarm water

Although our tendency is to use hot water while taking a bath, avoid extremely hot water and stick to lukewarm water since too much heat removes the moisture and oily nature from your skin.

Preventing dry feet and legs

Dry feet and legs are a common problem in winter. Hence padabhyangam or a foot massage with volatile oils and ayurvedic formulations can not just remove dead cells from your feet but also soften and soothe your feet skin and muscles.

Dryness of the face

Face massage with sesame oil, castor oil, or Ayurveda oils such as nalpamaradi oil can help remove dryness; however, consult with your Ayurveda doctor if you have an oily skin and to determine how long you would need to leave in the oil on your face. Else it might worsen the condition, leading to pimples and pigmentation.

Preventing dryness in the scalp

Often confused for infections, dandruff is more the result of a dry scalp. You can prevent this by a long session of head massage that nourishes your scalp, improves blood circulation, and drives away the dryness. Popular oils include brahmi oil and coconut oil. But oils have a cooling effect on your scalp; hence avoid excessive massages.

A sensible diet

Ensure that your diet calms the vata and enhances your body’s immunity. Prioritize adding warm food and cooked or steamed vegetables to your diet. Use dairy products with care since although they have properties that benefit vata, they can also excessively cool your body, increasing mucus generation. Although you tend to feel hungry in this climate, avoid stuffing your body with too much food or with junk food.

Improve your body’s immunity

Follow a healthy lifestyle of normal sleep-wake cycle, stress-free lifestyle, healthy food, and smart exercise routines that boost your immune system. Supplement your body with Rasayanas as per your Ayurveda doctor’s recommendation.

A cool wintery Chennai is indeed a rarity. But before you can go all out and enjoy the pleasantly cool climate, ensure that your body is strongly protected against the troubles that this cold climate can bring in. Contact me for any further questions you may have about managing winter-related health troubles and proper winter care with Ayurveda. You can connect with me at http://www.miayurveda.org/ or call me at +91-9444615161.

Gaining Relief from the Painful Frozen Shoulder the Ayurveda Way

Many of us have experienced instances of stiff shoulders and pain in our day-to-day lives. However, extended period pain and stiffness, which worsens over time, can be a frozen shoulder or apabahuka. Frozen shoulder can occur while recovering from an injury, for example, recovering from a fracture in a sling. Interestingly, frozen shoulders are also critical indicators of inherent conditions such as diabetes. Frozen shoulders progressively worsen and soon you are not able to control the pain with simple medications and it affects your daily routine. Hence, I always advise the patients at my Ayurveda clinic in Chennai to check such symptoms at the initial stage itself rather than mask their symptoms with medications. But what is a frozen shoulder and what are the solutions that Ayurveda can provide? Here are a few details.

What are the symptoms of frozen shoulders?

Frozen shoulders too are a chronic condition involving pain and stiffness of one or both the shoulders, especially at the joint. The condition develops over time, and in stages. Initially, there is just pain when you move the shoulders or upper arms. The patients experience significant pain in the neck too. This limits the extent to which you can move the shoulders. As days, pass your pain might subside but you feel the stiffness of your shoulders. The limited movement makes it difficult for you to carry out your routine work – such as rotating arms completely or raising your arms. At the later stages the pain resurfaces in the night, when the shoulders are resting.

Why does frozen shoulder occur?

This condition is more common in women and older than 40 years. In this condition, the tissues around the shoulder joint become thick as a result of continued immobilization after an injury, a surgery, or related conditions. It can also occur as a result of complete lack of physical activity. Frozen shoulders are also the result of critical underlying conditions such as diabetes, thyroid disorders, heart conditions, etc. It is also seen in case of a cervical disc condition. It can also occur due to hormonal imbalances and a sedentary lifestyle. Ayurveda relates this condition to vata roga imbalance.

Solutions for frozen shoulders

A customized package of physical procedures, internal herbal medicines, exercise, and lifestyle changes help in overcoming this condition. However, it requires an experienced Ayurveda doctor’s guidance so you get a complete assessment and the perfect treatment protocol. Here are the different treatment approaches your Ayurveda doctor will choose from.

Fomentation: Fomentation relaxes the shoulder muscles, while the heat will help improve circulation to the tissues in the region. This will help improve the movement.
Massage: Ensure that you take your Ayurveda doctor’s guidance to take up shoulder massage sessions to relax the muscles and improve circulation to the shoulder region. Panchakarma also shows incredible benefits by detoxifying the body and restoring shoulder movements.
Lifestyle changes: Completely remove stimulants such as caffeine and alcohol along with carbonated drinks and packaged food items. Ensure that you eat food when it is warm and never skip meals. Ensure that you sleep at regular time and limit exposure to cold. Monitor your exercises and avoid heavy physical strain.
Medications: Ensure that you follow your Ayurveda doctor’s instructions regarding intake of medications such as amla based formulations, ashwagandha, fenugreek, etc.

Managing diabetes: If the condition is caused by diabetes managing blood sugar through medications and controlled diet. Similarly managing any other inherent medical condition is also essential.
Exercise: Stage-wise improvement in range of movements under the strict monitoring of therapists is possible through exercises that not just improve the scope of movement of shoulders but also increase circulation.

Each person’s frozen shoulder condition presents a unique challenge. Hence, never go in for any popular procedure without your Ayurveda doctor’s assessment and recommendation. Contact me for any further questions you may have about frozen shoulders. You can connect with me at http://www.miayurveda.org/ or call me at +91-9444615161.

Finally, remember, the onset of most diseases are due to faulty diet and lifestyles. Therefore, it is essential to maintain a healthy mind and body by eating nutritious food, sleeping on time, avoiding sedentary lifestyle and exercising.

Punarnava – An Ever-Popular Ayurveda Herb for Rejuvenation and Restoration of t Body

Often called thazhuthama or the hogweed, punarnava is one of the most sought-after Ayurveda herbs. Punar refers to purify and nava refers to new; hence punarnava is primarily used for its restoring properties on the body and mind. Almost every part of this plant has medicinal value, from its roots to its flowers. I too find a lot of benefits from this impressive plant when I plan treatments for my patients at my Ayurveda clinic in Chennai. Let’s find out more about this brilliant plant and its multiple applications in Ayurveda.

Punarnava – the characteristics of the plant

This creeper is found all across India, growing wild as a weed, especially after the rains. Its flowers are beautiful and are found in bunches, commonly seen in two colors – purple and white – while its leaves are broad and thick. The roots of punarnava have the most potent medicinal benefits. However, all parts of the plant are effective in managing common medical conditions and in rejuvenation treatment. It is critical in case of imbalances in pitta and kapha rogas. From its ama-pacifying effect on the digestive tract, anti-inflammatory effect, and detoxifying benefits to its diurectic and multiple other benefits, punarnava owes many of its medicinal effects to one of its alkaloidal ingredients.

Punarnava – benefits

This plant is effective across all the major organ systems of the body. Punarnva’s diuretic properties makes it useful in managing kidney disorders and kidney stones. It is also valuable as a digestive, increasing appetite and curing constipation. For the respiratory system, this plant helps in providing relief in case of asthma. In case of providing relief in case of orthopedic conditions such as joint inflammation. It is also effective in treating anemia and menstrual disorders. It detoxifies the liver and is valuable in case of jaundice and other liver conditions. It also helps with weight loss and correcting skin conditions.

Let’s look at some of its important benefits.

Anti-diuretic effect: Punarnava helps in increasing the secretion of urine; hence, it is beneficial in case of urinary infections. It also removes water retention from tissues and body cavities.

Liver condition: Punarnava stimulates bile secretion, which is critical for maintenance of a healthy liver.

Asthma treatment: Punarnava causes thinning of the phlegm and its easy removal from the respiratory system. This helps in removal of blocks from the mucous membrane and in improving the functioning of the lungs.

Digestive tract: This plant removes the ama from the digestive tract, strengthening the stomach muscles and intestine.

Anti-obesity effect: Its anti-diuretic effect helps in removing additional water retention in the body and retaining the electrolyte balance, thus leading to weight loss.

Orthopedic benefits: Punarnava is seen to have incredible benefits in case of arthritis, providing relief from pain, especially in case of inflammatory muscles and joints.

With many more such benefits, Punarnava is really the miracle plant of Ayurveda. To find out more about how you can prepare medications from punarnava and how it can relieve your specific conditions, please do connect with me at http://www.miayurveda.org/ or call me at +91-9444615161.

Rasayana Chikitsa – Ayurveda Treatment Options You Can Choose from

I’ve already introduced the concept of Rasayana Chikitsa to you and its growing popularity as the wonder treatment protocol for nourishing the body, maintaining the physical and mental health, strengthening the body against diseases, building immunity, rejuvenating the body. With such a wide range of benefits, rasayana chikitsa is indeed one of the most popular treatment modalities in Ayurveda. This treatment is especially relevant in today’s haphazard lifestyle. The excessive mental and physical stress, unhealthy food habits, sedentary routines, poor postures, and disturbed sleep cycles have all taken its toll on the vata-pitta-kapha balance, leading to accumulation of toxins. The result is early aging, poor immunity, stress-related disorders, and new lifestyle-related conditions. Your body needs the rejuvenation of powerful anti-oxidants, nerve tonics, circulation stimulators, muscle and bone strengtheners, and all related benefits.

But rasayana chikitsa is not a simple 30-minute procedure. It requires your time, focus, and dedication and the support of an expert Ayurveda doctor. Rasayana chikitsa is one of the most popular treatment modalities at my Ayurveda clinic in Chennai. Its power in nourishing the tissues, preventing recurrence of a disease, and strengthening the body’s immunity is one of the primary reasons why patients seek the support of this treatment. So let’s look at the options you have in this treatment.

How does rasayana chikitsa work?

This treatment modality works primarily by improving circulation at the tissue level, strengthening the tissues and removing the ama from the body. The nutritional correction that this procedure delivers improves the digestive ability or the agni of the body. Hence herbal formulations such as pippali, thulasi, and guggulu help overcome the catabolic or the breakdown effect of age, improving the body’s immunity.

What are the steps involved?

Even a simple chyavanaprash delivers basic rejuvenation effects by improving the body’s metabolic rate and enhances immunity when consumed on a regular basis. Hence you can imagine the incredible effect this treatment can have when you dedicate your time and attention to a full-scale rasayana chikitsa. The process of the chikitsa is termed rasakriya. There are two types of kriyas, one that is customized for today’s busy life and the other that retains all the essential ingredients of a traditional chikitsa.

The decision of course depends on your comfort level and your expert Ayurveda doctor’s opinion. The doctor decides the package that forms the kriya, including herbal medications, exercise, massage, diet, and other details. Every session has a purvakarma of cleansing and panchakarma and a paschatkarma of relaxation.

Kayakalpam for the stringent approach

Kayakalpa procedure is used for those who follow a strict chikitsa approach. You will have to stay in a specially prepared room for the entire duration of the therapy and therapists will monitor you strictly for diet, procedures, exercise, and other instructions. This approach is extensive and can extend even up to 4 months. Adults up to the age of about 65 to 70 years can take up this approach.

Generic approach for today’s busy life

This is a slightly altered approach where you don’t have to cut yourselves away from society for that long. It involves consuming Ayurvedic herbal formulations as per your doctor’s instructions and a set of massages and related procedures on different days. This can extend from a month to about two months. It includes sarvanga abhyangam, padabhyangam, administering enemas, and even udwartana. The process includes swedana and relaxing exercises, with recovery period in between. Of course, diet and lifestyle recommendations also form part of the treatment.

Hence, ensure that you first consult with me about the specific benefits you can gain from this chikitsa before proceeding blindly with individual sessions. Contact me for any questions you have about rasayana chikitsa. You can connect with me at http://www.miayurveda.org/ or call me at +91-9444615161.

Udhwarthanam – Ayurveda’s Magical Powder-Based Massage for Weight Loss and Healthy Skin

Ayurveda has incredible solutions not just for illnesses and disorders but also for helping you lead a healthy and beautiful life! Udhwarthanam or Udwarthanam is one such procedure that helps your skin stay healthy and glowing, with your body getting rid of most of its excessive fat. This procedure is slowly gaining relevance, given the increasing number of calls my Ayurveda hospital in Chennai is receiving inquiring about Udhwarthanam and its benefits, especially in terms of weight loss. So here is a quick overview about this procedure, its advantages, and the logic behind how it works.

Udhwarthanam is quite a powerful technique that combines the inherent potential of the herbs used in the process and the massage techniques used by skilled therapists. It is also unique because this procedure uses powder rather than oil for the massage.

What are the benefits of Udhwarthanam?

Weight loss is quite a popular benefit that many people seeking to undergo this procedure are aware of. But this procedure also has other important benefits, including achieving a healthy balance between the vata, pitta, and kapha rogas. So let’s first start with the obvious advantage and then move on to its other effects.

Obesity treatment – Ayurveda doctors often recommend Udhwarthanam for treatment of obesity as part of the treatment protocol
This process also helps in curing skin problems and improves the quality of the skin because of the vigorous exfoliation. It is known to help reduce cellulite, remove blemishes, and even reduce skin wrinkles by increasing moisture retention on the skin
The procedure is beneficial in case of joint and muscle complaints too since the massage strokes stimulate blood circulation to the muscles and strengthen them
Improved circulation leads to detoxification, which benefits instances of clogged sweat glands
This procedure is also said to be beneficial for certain conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis, paralysis and high cholesterol levels

How does Udhwarthanam derive its benefits?

The massage technique involves applying powerful strokes in a direction opposite to the direction of growth of skin hair. This means that the therapist will be applying strokes predominantly upward. These strong strokes will generate heat and will ensure that the medication is absorbed through the skin. However, the primary effect occurs because of the pressure the therapist applies during the procedure. This pressure helps in breaking down all the fat that is commonly stored right under the skin. In addition the heat helps in melting the fat away. This fat is called the subcutaneous fat and is one of the main factors contributing to obesity. The additional effect of this massage is the improved blood circulation, which improves the texture and quality of the skin and efficient detoxification.

The process

The procedure begins with the Ayurveda physician examining your body to determine any specific condition requiring attention. The physician can then plan the right combination of procedures in addition to Udhwarthanam, define the number of sittings, determine the exact Ayurveda medication to be used, and choose the right process to be followed. Without this important step, you will most probably be going in blindly for a procedure that might not be entirely beneficial to you.

The next step involves preparing the herbal medications. Dry herbal powders are also called churnams. There are two ways in which you can prepare the medication. The first involves mixing the selected herbal medicated powder with water, milk, or even some oils to form a paste. The second approach involves drying the selected medicated powder completely using heat, commonly using a mud pot. This dried powder is then used as the base for the massage.

The third critical step involves applying the paste or the powder from neck to toe. This is important since the therapist has to ensure complete coverage. Once the therapist applies the prepared medication, the massage begins. This massaging technique is unique, since its strokes are different and quite powerful, involving many critical postures that apply the right pressure at the right body location to breakdown all the fat.

The procedure takes about 30 to 45 minutes. In case of a paste form of medication, the therapist again applies powder on the body the moment the paste dries of. After the intense massage, you will rest completely for about 30 minutes so your body can entirely benefit from the procedure. The process ends with a steam and finally, a bath.

Although Udhwarthanam sounds like a pretty straightforward procedure that is beneficial to all, you will need to be careful about consulting an expert Ayurveda doctor to be sure that your body is ready to bear the intense pressure and heat that this procedure generates. Some conditions contraindicate the use of this procedure, including pregnancy, conditions such as eczema that can be exacerbated by this process, or if you have undergone other intense Ayurveda procedures like panchakarma recently.

Contact me for any questions you have about udhwarthanam. You can connect with me at http://www.miayurveda.org/ or call me at +91-9444615161.