Natural Healthcare Guide

Facts about Weight Gain & How to Loose Weight with easy Tips

noreply@blogger.com (Eshanvi Smith) — Wed, 22 Feb 2012 06:34:58 PST

Some Reasons for Weight Gain

The reasons for sudden increase in body weight can be many. One factor to consider is age. Others could be our diet. What we eat has a profound effect on our mind as well as the body. It is not only important as to what we eat but it is equally important as to how we eat. Also the metabolic rate and psychological aspects also contribute to weight gain.

As one ages the metabolic rate decreases leading to weight gain. This type of weight gain is observed in people in their late 30s. Thyroid imbalance and decrease in thyroid levels in particular lead to sudden weight gain. Change in lifestyle, mindless consumption of junk food etc. lead to weight gain.

But we also find people who do take junk food and still look lean and mean. This is due to their higher metabolic rate.

Now what is metabolism or metabolic rate?
It is the rate at which our body will use energy, better known as burning calories. If your body can burn calories faster then there is no excessive weight gain.

BMR or basal metabolic rate is the rate at which your body burns calories at rest. A general way to calculate this is by multiplying your weight in pounds by 10. To know your true BMR, seek professional advice.

Now the more you exercise, the better gets your metabolism. And with a higher metabolism you will burn calories more efficiently. As for a person with a low metabolism rate, he/she will burn fewer calories from the same amount of food and store the calories that were not 'burned' into fats.

Some Ayurvedic Tips for Weight Loss

Increase the intake of horsegram, kidney beans, millet, dry broken beans etc in your diet.
'Varadi' is a kashayam available in ayurvedic stores. Take 15 ml of this kashayam and mix it in 60 ml boiled and cooled water. Add honey one spoonful to this mix and take it early morning and evening in empty stomach. Lie down to your left side immediately after taking this for 15 minutes. On getting up, drink a glass of warm water. This kashayam is an excellent remedy to reduce excessive fat.
Avoid yoghurt or curd. Add one spoon of 'triphala' choornam in 80 ml of water and boil it. Once boiled, let it cool and then filter out the solids. Add a spoon of honey to this and take it immediately after food morning and evening.
Needless to say, exercise is a must. An hour after taking kashayam in the mornings, walk briskly for at least 30-45 minutes. Avoid daytime nap.
Horsegram is powdered to a nice consistency. Heat sour buttermilk and add 100 gm of horsegram powder to this and make a consistent paste. Apply this paste onto fat deposits on the body and massage vigorously in upward strokes. Horsegram is known to reduce body fat very effectively.Take hot water bath after half an hour. Use 'eladhi choornam' instead of soap. Add a few drops of water to this choornam and prepare a thick paste and use it for bathing purposes.
Avoid non-vegetarian food at all cost. Keep your colons clean and avoid constipation, take plenty of fibers. Triphala also helps prevent constipation.

Lavana Thailam for Weight Loss

One of the popular Ayurvedic preparations for weight loss is Lavana thailam. This oil is to be gently massaged in upward strokes on areas of fat deposits. It is to be washed off after 15 minutes with warm water.

The suggested regime is three months and can extend to six months in some stubborn cases. The oil can be used by regulars too who want to maintain their figure and prevent accumulation of fat.

Eat the right way
1. The diet, especially hard substances should be properly chewed.

2.Wherever possible intake of curd or buttermilk should follow food.

3. The food should be tasty, fresh and good in appearance.

4. It should neither be very hot nor absolutely cold.

5. Water should be avoided at least 15 minutes before food. The quantity of water after food should be small. Let it be drunk often.

6. Heavy (Guru) food should be taken in a limited quantity.

7. Heavy food should not be taken at night. The proper time of night meal is two to three hours before going to bed. After night meal, it is better to go for a short walk, of say hundred steps.

8. Heavy work or exercise should be avoided after food.

9. After meals, heavy mental or physical work should be avoided. Some rest is advisable for proper digestion of food.

With these simple tips you would be able to manage your weight in a right way.

Skincare with Grapes: Natural Cleansers

noreply@blogger.com (Eshanvi Smith) — Wed, 22 Feb 2012 02:27:04 PST

It is the season for grapes! Take a handful of grapes and blend it coarsely. Add half a tsp of honey in it and apply on the face and neck and leave it for 15 minutes. Wash off with cold water. Follow it up with a moisturiser. Grapes provides gentle and effective cleansing, plus protects against environmental damage for softer, younger looking skin.

Grapes are full of polyphenols, natural compounds that contain antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties,which not only help promote blood vessel resilience for skin health but also help protect against disease. In addition, research has shown that grape skin and seeds are a great source of OPCs (Oligomeric Proanthocyanidins), which promote collagen and elastin fibers.

Grapes are not only delicious, they are packed with the goodness of vitamin C, vitamin B6, thiamin, and antioxidants. So do eat them while the season lasts!

Serial Dieter

noreply@blogger.com (Eshanvi Smith) — Sun, 19 Feb 2012 06:00:05 PST

Confessions of a Serial Dieter: Weight Loss Book

Caution: High-Fat Diet Can Disrupt Your Biological Clock!

noreply@blogger.com (Eshanvi Smith) — Sun, 19 Feb 2012 05:44:42 PST

Indulgence in a high-fat diet can not only lead to overweight because of excessive calorie intake, but also can affect the balance of circadian rhythms – everyone's 24-hour biological clock, Hebrew University of Jerusalem researchers have shown.

The biological clock regulates the expression and/or activity of enzymes and hormones involved in metabolism, and disturbance of the clock can lead to such phenomena as hormone imbalance, obesity, psychological and sleep disorders and cancer.

While light is the strongest factor affecting the circadian clock, there is a cause-and-effect relation between diet and biological clock imbalance.

In an article soon to be published by the medical industry journal Endocrinology, the researchers suggest that this high-fat diet could contribute to obesity, not only through its high caloric content, but also by disrupting the phases and daily rhythm of clock genes. They contend also that high fat-induced changes in the clock and the adiponectin signaling pathway may help explain the disruption of other clock-controlled systems associated with metabolic disorders, such as blood pressure levels and the sleep/wake cycle.

EurekaAlert!

Natural Herbal Supplements for Stress

noreply@blogger.com (Eshanvi Smith) — Fri, 17 Feb 2012 05:13:15 PST

Stress is the disruption of our mental and physical balance through physical or psychological stimuli. Stressful stimuli can be mental, physiological, anatomical or physical reactions. There are a number of natural supplements that could help reduce stress. Some of these include kava, an herb from the South Pacific; and Passion Flower, a gentle herb that helps you relax. Some people prefer an herb used in Ayurvedic medicine. Taking half a capsule of ashwagandha is one option. For those who have trouble relaxing at night and falling asleep, the occasional use of Good-Night-Rx is quite helpful. See also the benefits of stress herbs and how they help you to balance and live healthy life.

And last but not least, a good yoga or meditation session may work better than anything else. Take some time to watch spring blooming outside your window and meditate on all that you have to be thankful for. Maybe you won’t need the stress herbs after all.

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Stress Herbs: Herbs that Reduce Stress & Anxiety

noreply@blogger.com (Eshanvi Smith) — Fri, 17 Feb 2012 04:56:20 PST

Taking herbs for stress relief is one of the easiest, cheapest and healthiest ways to help your body and your mind in the fight against stress.

You can eat the herbs with your food, dried, fresh, in teas, stews, on pizzas, in salads, soups, curries and stir fries every day. There are also herbal supplements you can take in pill form available in the market.

Probably the nicest and most de-stressing way to get your anti-stress herbs is to grow them in a pot or in your garden. Then you also have a real connection with nature.

Here are herbs that have to be proven effective at reducing stress and anxiety:

Red Clover - Trifolium Pratense
Red clover contains strong concentrations of natural plant estrogen called phytoestrogens. This is a hormone that occurs both in men and women, and recent studies have begun to suggest that additional estrogen can alleviate the symptoms of schizophrenia, which are not all that different from the symptoms experienced under very high stress.

Red clover also reduces cholesterol, acts on the arteries and the blood, and does lots of other good things for people who suffer from stress and could be considered candidates for a future heart attack.

Licorice Root
It contains a natural hormone alternative to cortisone, which can help the body handle stressful situations, and can help to normalize blood sugar levels as well as your adrenal glands, providing you with the energy necessary to deal with the stressful situation at hand. Some claim licorice stimulates cranial and cerebrospinal fluid, thereby calming the mind.
As a soothing tonic, drink it warm as in a tea.

Chamomile - Matricaria Chamomilla
The ancient Egyptians dedicated the chamomile herb to the sun because it cured so many things, including fever, aging, and the problems associated with overindulging in rich foods, drugs, and alcohol. In the middle ages, chamomile was the preferred remedy to stave off delirium tremens and to cure children of nightmares.

A lot of stress problems these days also have components of overindulgence and taking in too many substances of one kind, or the other - and we pay the price in physical stress on the body. The kind of long term stress that modern people experience is clearly a form of overheating the circuitry, so chamomile comes in handy there too. Proven to have a relaxing and restorative effect, a good all round anti-stress herbal remedy.

Passion flower
It is considered a mild sedative and can help promote sleep. Passion flower also treats anxiety, insomnia, depression and nervousness.

The parts of the passion flower plant that grow above the ground can be dried and steeped for tea. Otherwise, passion flower is available as a tincture, capsule and even as a juice.

Tarragon - Artemisia Dracunculus
With its name from the Arabic word "tarkhun", which means "little dragon", Tarragon is a fine herbal friend against stress. Amongst its many good qualities is pain relief, which leads to relaxation and feeling more peaceful without being tranquilized.

Tarragon promotes calmness, balance in appetite and it also contains minerals which can be in short supply in a modern industrial diet.

This herbal remedy has been used for thousands of years for calming hyperactive children - which makes it a very good herb for stress relief.

Kava Kava
A herb from the South Pacific, is a powerful muscle relaxer and analgesic. Kava Kava is also effective at treating depression and anxiety associated with menopause.

Kava Kava is very easily found as a capsule in the supplement section of any grocery store.

Dill - Anethum Graveolens
Does your stomach flip when you're stressed? One of the bad side effects of having too much adrenaline for too long in our systems is that our digestive system shuts down and starts working erratically. This is why highly stressed people get stomach ulcers.

Dill has been used since ancient times to soothe upset stomachs, relax the stomach, relieve digestion cramps so if you carry your stress in your stomach, Dill is the first choice of herb to help with stress.

The name dill is derived from the Saxon verb dilla, to lull, because of its tranquillizing properties, and its causing children to sleep. Perfect!

St. John’s Wort-Hypericum Formosum
It has been used medicinally since Hippocrates time. Even during the Renaissance and Victorian periods it was used for the treatment of mental disorders. Though it presents itself as an unassuming, flowering perennial, St. John’s Wort was shown to be more effective than Prozac, according to a recent study, in treating major depressive disorders.

St. John’s Wort is most often taken as a capsule or tablet. It is often combined with valerian root when insomnia or restlessness are accompanying symptoms.

Rosemary - Rosmarini Officinalis
Greek scholars used to wear rosemary in their hair to help them think clearly and study well - Rosemary has many beneficial effects on the mind, and the body.

As an anti-stress herb, Rosemary relaxes the muscles in the body and that's one of the most important things in the fight against stress which is always associated with tension. With more relaxation in the muscles, you get better blood flow into the brain and eyes as well, so that's where the mental clarity comes in as well.

Apart from all of that, Rosemary is stuffed with minerals and vitamins, and cheaply available everywhere, so if you can only afford one herb against stress, this might be it for you.

Lavender
This is the workhorse of herbs. It is effective at reducing irritability and anxiety, promoting relaxation, a sense of calm and sleep. It is also a powerful anti-bacterial agent, and can work to balance hormones and stimulate the immune system. All of that from one little herb.

While lavender can be consumed in a tea, it may work best as an essential oil that is breathed in by way of a diffuser or, in the case of stress and sleeplessness, an eye pillow.

Sage - Salvia Officinalis
This herb got its name from the Latin "salvare" - which means to save. Sage is a classic example of why herbs can score over man-made cocktails of chemicals, because as time goes by, research is discovering more and more benefits of this seemingly simple herb, which the ancients knew about all along.

Sage has been scientifically proven to enhance memory and clear the mind; it is also a powerful antioxidant, and many other things besides.

Buy Natural Herbal Supplements for Stress, Depression or Anxiety

Anti Aging Home Remedies

noreply@blogger.com (Eshanvi Smith) — Thu, 16 Feb 2012 03:25:41 PST

Ayurvedic anti aging alternative herbal and home remedies. Tips on getting rid of dry skin, wrinkles, crow's feet for youthful skin.

The Simple Truth

Most home remedies just involve using things that we already know are healthy. Most products use combinations of healthy ingredients. The secret to most cosmetic and health related issues is simply healthy diet and exercise. Fruits and veggies won't make us 20 years younger or turn us into super models, but they are essential to being as healthy, young, and beautiful as we can be and nobody was ever hurt by a healthy diet.

Avoiding bad things is just as important as consuming good things. Smoking, drinking, and excessive coffee consumption are all things we have known age us much more rapidly, but many of us continue to use them anyway. The simple truth is that with or without home miracle remedies, we all already know how to live healthy and vibrant lives.

As per Ayurveda
Premature aging of the skin is caused due to the aggravation of vata dosha, which naturally increases with age. Dryness of skin is a predominant trait of a Vata dosha body type constitution. Even in other people, Vata causes dryness of the skin when it is vitiated due to seasonal influences. In fact, skin ages due to both- internal as well as external factors. Internal factors may be listed as inability of skin to retain moisture, low levels of elastin production, lesser production of new skin cells etc. External factors include lifestyle choices and surrounding environment such as smoking, prolonged exposure to sun or extreme cold, poor diet, stress, lack of exercise etc.

Home Remedies for Anti Aging

Dry Skin & Wrinkles

Applying egg whites to the wrinkles under your eyes will help maintain elasticity. It is unnecessary to waste a whole egg doing this. The leftover portion in the shell is enough for one application.
Massage face with clarified butter (ghee), almond oil or coconut oil before going to bed. An oil massage is the best remedy for dry skin. Almond and coconut oil are best Ayurvedic remedies for aging skin as they improve complexions, reduce fine lines and wrinkles apart from curing crow's feet. For better absorption, anti-aging oil massages should be done at night.
Apply fresh Aloe Vera juice to the skin. If you can't get fresh aloe vera, get aloe vera gel from health care shops.
Take two apricots and remove their seeds. Blend them together with lime juice, 2 tbsp of honey, fresh lime juice and cold milk. Apply on desired areas and let it work its magic for at least half an hour. Rinse with warm water. Results are noticeable immediately.
Ghee or clarified butter contains vitamin E, beta-carotene, and antioxidants that prevent cell damage and fight free radicals. Rub ghee all over your body to get it absorbed in the skin. The best way to get benefits of ghee is to include it in your daily diet. Mix 1-2 teaspoons of ghee while cooking vegetables, dals etc.
Empty three capsules of Vitamin E into a bowl. Add 2 tsp plain yogurt, 1/2 tsp honey, and 1/2 tsp lemon juice. Apply to desired areas with a cotton ball or something similarly absorbent. Leave this on your skin for at least 10 minutes.
There are many benefits of honey, one being its anti aging property. Take 1/2 tablespoon of honey and mix it with 1-2 tablespoon of rose water. Apply this mixture on face, neck, and other dry skin area. Leave it for about 15-20 minutes. Now wash it off with tepid water. Honey moisturizes and soothes dry skin. This mixture will clean your skin and tone it to give you a glowing complexion with wrinkle free skin.
Take one teaspoon each of egg yolk and honey, and 1-2 teaspoon milk powder. Mix them well to make a smooth paste. Apply this paste on face, neck and other dry skin area. Leave it for 10-15 minutes and then wash with cold water.
Mix one egg yolk, 1 teaspoon each of honey, olive oil and vitamin E oil to make an anti aging lotion to be used as moisturizing facial mask. Apply it to face and other areas and leave for 15 minutes. Then wash it off with lukewarm water.
Basil herb or Ocimum Sanctum (tulsi) has effective anti-aging and anti-oxidant properties. Follow the traditional Ayurvedic method of boiling fresh tulsi leaves and water until the water reduces to half. Then drink the resulting water. The other ayurvedic way of having basil leaves is to eat the crushed herb when it cools.

Follow These Additional Tips:

Avoid too much of sun exposure as it is one of the main causes of wrinkles. Use umbrella, scarves or any other protective cover when going out in sun.
Quit smoking Cigarette smoke ages skin by releasing an enzyme that breaks down elastin and collagen- vital components of skin.
Get adequate sleep. Sleeping position is also important. Try to sleep on your back, as it prevents wrinkle formation. Sleeping on sides may cause wrinkles on chin and cheek and sleeping with face-down will result in furrowed brow.
Eat lots of fruits and vegetables. They have anti-oxidants that help fight damage caused by free radicals. They keep skin younger and radiant.
Drink lots of water during the day to provide optimum supply of moisture to the skin.
Do not over-wash your face. Washing face too often removes skin off its natural barrier oils and moisture that protect against wrinkles.
Switch to green tea. Green tea has anti-inflammatory, anti-ageing, and healing effects on skin which helps in skin rejuvenation.
Get a humidifier. Dry skin contributes to wrinkles. Humidifiers are inexpensive and will moisten the air that is usually dried out by air conditioners and heaters.
Exercise your face. Many wrinkles are caused by the skin staying immobile for long periods of time. By doing regular expression exercises, you will increase the elasticity in your skin and reduce wrinkle.

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Top 13 Tips To Prevent Common Cold!

noreply@blogger.com (Eshanvi Smith) — Thu, 16 Feb 2012 01:17:54 PST

There's no cure for common cold till date, not even vaccines to prevent it. While a majority of common cold infections aren't life-threatening, its symptoms including sneezing, fever, runny nose, etc, are enough for you wish for an effective pharmaceutical drug cure. Perhaps in the absence of a vaccine or a cure, prevention seems to be the best bet.

Tips to Prevent Common Cold

1. Frequently washing your hand is critical, especially after a visit to a public place, gym, or contact with a person with cold. Washing hands will wipe off the virus from your hands.

2. If you send kids to a child care or a day care center then choose those which have a policy of keeping sick kids at home.

3. Stay clear from cigarette smoke as it can irritate your airways making you more vulnerable to catching a cold.

4. Disposing off used tissues is important because they can easily contaminate surfaces they come in contact with.

5. If you've been in the proximity of people with cold ensure that you don't touch your face, nose, mouth, or eyes.

6. Keep your stress levels well managed. Studies have shown that stressed out individuals become more vulnerable to catching a cold.

7. If someone in the family is infected then try to use disposable items such as cups and glasses so as to minimize exposure to a utensil laden with a cold virus after being used by an infected person.

8. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle keeps your immune system intact and may make it better equipped to prevent a virus from establishing a cold infection. Your healthy lifestyle may include diet, exercise, rest and sleep, etc.

9. Often cold viruses can thrive for hours at a stretch on door knobs, drawer pulls, keyboards, light switches, telephones, remote controls, etc. As a result, it makes sense to keep these surfaces clean after use by an infected person.

10. Avoid persons afflicted with common cold from sneezing or coughing in your direction. Encourage them to use tissues, which need to be discarded ASAP after use.

11. When someone in the family has cold don't share cloth towels. While generally using separate towels is a healthy practice doing so during colds becomes all the more important. If possible replace cloth towels with disposable paper towels.

12. Avoid close and prolonged contact with a cold sufferer.

13. If any kids in the family have cold, make sure that you clean their toys after use.

Try you best, but if you catch cold don't worry consult your doctor who may advise you or may prescribe medication for alleviating the symptoms of cold and/or you may try alternative medication to make you feel better till your body is able to knock out the virus by itself.

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Natural ways to fight “cold n flu”

noreply@blogger.com (Eshanvi Smith) — Tue, 07 Feb 2012 04:20:58 PST

With no cure in sight for the cold or the flu, current treatments can at best to bring symptomatic relief or shorten the duration of those symptoms. You can take one of variety of medications that may help relieve your symptoms. Or you can take the natural approach. Following are some home remedies that may help you feel better.

Blow your nose often: it is important to blow your nose regularly when you have a cold rather than sucking mucus back into your head.

Stay rested: Resting when you first come down with a cold or the flu helps your body direct its energy towards the immune battle.

Gargle: Gargling can moisten a sore throat and bring temporary relief. Try a teaspoon of salt dissolved in warm water.

Drink hot liquids: Hot liquids relieve nasal congestion, help prevent dehydration.

Take a steamy shower: Steamy showers moisturize your nasal passages & relaxes you.

Use a salve under your nose: A small dab of mentholated salve under your nose can open breathing passages & help soothe the irritated skin at the base of the nose.

Apply hot or cold packs around your congested sinuses: You can soak cloth in hot or cold water for few minutes & apply on the affected areas, this helps you further relieve.

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Ashwagandha in Ayurvedic Medicine raises Alzheimer’s hope

noreply@blogger.com (Eshanvi Smith) — Tue, 07 Feb 2012 04:21:16 PST

- Ashwagandha extracts reverse symptoms in mice, Indian scientists claim

G.S. MUDUR

New Delhi, Jan. 31: Ashwagandha, a plant used for centuries in Ayurvedic medicine, cleaned out abnormal protein deposits in the brain and reversed damage and behavioural changes observed in Alzheimer’s disease when tested on mice, a team of Indian scientists announced today.

The scientists have shown through experiments on mice that extracts of Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) can reverse within 30 days the abnormal accumulation of a protein, called beta-amyloid plaque, in the brain that is linked to Alzheimer’s disease.

The researchers at the National Brain Research Centre (NBRC) at Manesar in Haryana fed genetically-engineered mice, which had symptoms similar to those of Alzheimer’s disease, a daily oral dose of a cocktail of chemicals called withanosides and withanolides, extracted from Ashwagandha.

The extracts appeared to boost the synthesis of a special protein in the liver that acts as a chaperone and helps remove amyloid plaque from the brain. The scientists said a component of this protein slips into the bloodstream and draws the accumulated amyloid plaque out of the brain into the bloodstream for eventual disposal and excretion from the body. The findings appear today in the US journal Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences.

“It’s like vacuum cleaning the brain to get rid of unwanted amyloid plaque,” said Vijayalakshmi Ravindranath, a senior neuroscientist at the Indian Institute of Science, Bangalore, who initiated the study eight years ago while she was director of the NBRC.

In their experiments, the scientists observed the elimination or reduction of amyloid plaque within the brain and an improvement or a complete reversal of behavioural deficiencies in the model mice, depending on the age of the animals.

Suvarna Alladi, a neurologist at the Nizam Institute of Medical Sciences in Hyderabad, who is not associated with the study, said all current therapy against Alzheimer’s disease directly target the brain. “This is a novel strategy. They’re targeting the liver to remove amyloid plaque from the brain. But this is also essentially an anti-amyloid therapy which currently appears to be a promising way ahead against Alzheimer’s disease.”

Neurologists estimate that India has about four million people with dementia, the majority with Alzheimer’s disease. Current treatment involves pharmaceutical compounds designed to prevent the accumulation or the synthesis of amyloid plaque. “But the best available therapy today does not cure Alzheimer’s disease,” Alladi said.

While the use of Ashwagandha has been advocated for centuries in traditional medicine, the NBRC study is the first to show that its extracts reverse Alzheimer’s disease.

“The results appeared so stunning that we requested an independent laboratory in Canada to validate them,” Ravindranath told The Telegraph. Neurologist Edith Hamel at McGill University in Montreal and fellow researcher Jessica Mills repeated the experiments with a different model mouse and obtained similar results.

The NBRC team, including Neha Sehgal, Alok Gupta, Rupanagudi Khader Valli, and Shanker Datt Joshi collaborated with Delhi University plant chemistry experts Subhash Jain and Pankaj Khanna who extracted the withanosides and withanolides from the plant.

The researchers caution that the Ashwagandha extract is not ready for human trials yet. Ravindranath points out that the dose given to mice was very high — about one gram per kilogram bodyweight of the animal.

“The evidence with mice looks good. If this holds up in future studies, we should go into human trials,” said Manjari Tripathi, a neurologist at AIIMS, New Delhi.

“This is a desperate hunt for a devastating disease that robs its victims of memory and thinking capacity. There may also be other herbs waiting to be assessed through rigorous scientific research.”

Source: The Telegraph

Baby Constipation Home Remedies

noreply@blogger.com (Eshanvi Smith) — Tue, 07 Feb 2012 04:21:46 PST

Babies or infants have their own pattern of bowel movements depending upon their foods, activity and digestion abilities. However, if your child gets constipation, you get to know it if s/he does not have a bowel movement in 3 or more days or has hard, dry stools that are difficult to pass. Treatment for baby constipation can be done by using certain home remedies. Here is a list of such constipation remedies for providing relief to your baby.

If your baby has just started taking solid baby food, it might be a cause of constipation as these foods are low in fiber. Request your doctor to change the baby food brand that might help in constipation treatment of your baby. With consultation of doctor, switch from rice cereal to barley or oat cereal, or you might add pureed fruits or vegetables to regular cereal.
If your baby crawls, motivate her to do a few laps and if she isn't crawling, try pumping her legs gently. This will give her some exercise.
Dehydration can be one of the causes for your baby's constipation. Increase the amount of fluid which will also keep her stools soft.
Give 1 ounce of prune juice diluted with equal amount of water, twice a day. Alternatively, give apple juice to your baby.
Rub the area surrounding baby's anus with a considerably warm cloth. This helps in relaxing the muscles and allows gas and other matter to escape.
Mix a capful of corn syrup in your baby's food to get rid of constipation.
Soak 1 tsp Psyllium Husk or Isabgol in a cup of water. Feed 1-2 spoon of this liquid in the food that you give to your baby. This can even be used as a precautionary method for avoiding constipation in babies.
Avoid such foods as rice cereal and bananas as they may aggravate constipation. Instead give your baby prunes, apricots, or pears.

Tonsillitis Home Remedies

noreply@blogger.com (Eshanvi Smith) — Tue, 07 Feb 2012 04:22:19 PST

Tonsillitis

Tonsillitis refers to acute inflammation of the tonsils, which lie, one on each side of the throat. Chronic tonsillitis is a term applied to cases in which there is enlargement of the tonsils accompanied by repeated attacks of infection.

Symptoms:
Major symptoms of tonsillitis are headache, fever, sore throat, pain in several parts, weakness, difficulty in swallowing. Some time patient feels pain in ears.

Causes of Tonsillitis

Tonsillitis is most commonly a result of viral infections, but in around one third of the cases, a bacterial infection may be the cause. It is impossible to recognize the difference between bacterial or viral infections and only medical tests can help identify the exact cause. There are different possible tonsillitis or tonsil stones causes that could include the following:

• Close contact with any individual suffering a tonsillar or pharyngeal infection could increase the risk of developing tonsillitis.
• A prolonged sore throat caused by an infection could at times develop into tonsillitis.
• Sharing of personal items like toothbrushes with an infected person could cause tonsillitis.
Although tonsillitis can occur at any age it is more common among younger children.

Tonsillitis home remedies and natural cures

Tonsillitis treatment using Lime

Lime is one of the most effective remedies in the treatment of acute tonsillitis. A fresh lime squeezed in a glass of warm water, with four teaspoons of honey and a quarter teaspoon of common salt, should be sipped slowly in such cases.

Tonsillitis treatment using Milk

Milk has been found valuable in tonsillitis. A glass of pure boiled milk, mixed with a pinch uf turmeric powder and pepper powder, should be taken every night for three nights in the treatment of this condition. It will bring beneficial results.

Vegetable Juices

Tonsillitis treatment using Vegetable Juices

Juices of carrot, beet, and cucumber, taken individually or in combination, are especially beneficial. The formula proportion recommended, when used in combination is 300 ml of carrot juice, 100 ml of beet juice, and 100 ml of cucumber juice.

Tonsillitis treatment using Banafsha Flowers

Banafsha flowers, botanically known as Viola odorata, are beneficial in the treatment of tonsillitis. About 12 gm of these flowers should be boiled in 50 ml of milk. This milk should be taken hot after being filtered. The filtered banafsha can also be lightly fried in clarified butter and worn round the throat as a poultice at night.

Tonsillitis treatment using Fenugreek Seeds

Chamomile

A gargle made from fenugreek seeds is very effective in severe cases of tonsillitis. To make such a gargle, two tablespoons of fenugreek seeds should be allowed to simmer for half an hour in a litre of water and then set aside to cool. The entire quantity should be used the same day as a soothing gargle. It will have beneficial results.

Remedy for Tonsillitis

Keep in mind that tonsillitis should not be treated lightly and while tonsillitis treatment with home remedies and natural methods may be helpful, medical attention is absolutely necessary. Methods of home treatment can be used as complimentary treatment to facilitate healing and provide relief.

Tonsillitis treatment using Salt water

The best way to prevent tonsil stones is to gargle with salt water. This simple home remedy not only helps in removing the tonsil stones but it also prevents the growth of additional stones. This salt water gargle helps in cleaning out the crypts and food particles lodged inside, thereby arresting the development of new tonsil stones.

Tonsillitis treatment using Chamomile

Chamomile tea along with honey and lemon is a great home remedy for providing relief from the symptoms of tonsillitis.

Tonsillitis treatment using Figs

A paste can be prepared from water and boiled figs and this paste can be applied externally on the throat area to provide a cooling and soothing effect.

Tonsillitis treatment using Alum

Epsom-salt-baths

Purified alum can be used for gargling or powdered alum can be applied over the tonsils to reduce the inflammation.

Other Tonsillitis Treatment

• Warm-Water Enema and Exercises

•  Daily dry friction and a hip bath, as well as breathing and other exercises, should all form part of the daily health regimen. The bowels should be cleansed daily with a warm-water enema during the period of fasting
•  Cold pack and Hot Epsom Salts Bath
•  A cold pack should be applied to the throat at two-hourly intervals during the day. A hot Epsom salts bath taken everyday or every other day will also be beneficial.

Ayurvedic Tea Recipes for Various Health Benefits

noreply@blogger.com (Eshanvi Smith) — Tue, 07 Feb 2012 04:12:08 PST

Ayurveda has always given highest importance to right food according to one's body constitution. As such, one should always eat food according to the dosha of his her body- vata, pitta or kapha. Ayurveda has also advocated certain diets that are beneficial to achieve overall health. It gives many recipes for specific problems such as Ayurvedic Detoxifying Recipes or Ayurvedic Recipes for weight loss etc. There are also many drinks that help maintaining health. One of such drinks is the tea, which when prepared with different herbs and spices give different benefits for health. Some of such ayurvedic tea recipes are described here.

Ayurvedic Tea for Digestion: Take 1 tsp each of cumin, coriander seeds, and fennel seeds. Also take 3 cups of water and honey. Boil water and after removing from flame, soak the ingredients, except honey, in it for about 5 minutes. Strain and add honey to make it sweet.

Soothing Tulsi Tea: Take 50 gm Tulsi, 7.5 gm Dalchini, 5 gmBrahmi, 15 gm Banafsha, 25 gm Saunf, 15 gm Iliachi dana, 25 gm each of Lalchandan and Kali Mirch. Ground them and boil the mixture in water.

Banafsha Tea for Cough and Cold: Take 60 gm Banafsha, 15 gm Kulanjan, and 20 gm Mulathi. Ground them and boil the mixture in water. Add one drop each of peppermint and eucalyptus oil.

Jushanda Tea for Relief in Asthma: Take 30 gm Mulathi, 15 gm Somavali, 25 gm Vasaka, and 2 gm Naushadar. Ground them and boil the mixture in water.

Herbal Diuretic Tea: Take 26 gm Hauber, 24 gm Gokshru, 25 gm Varun, and 25 gm Punernava. Ground them and boil the mixture in water. It is a diuretic agent which increases the volume of urine excreted and prevents the formation of stone and also dissolves the kidney stone.

Anti-oxidant Keshar and Green Tea: Take 5 gm Jaiphal, 4 gm Javitri, 50 gm Dalchini, 1 gm Keshar, and 40 gm Ashwagandha. Ground them and boil the mixture in water. For anti-oxidant green tea recipe, add 10 gm green tea leaves, and 1 gm each of Dalchini and Iliachi with sugar (as per taste) in water. Boil to get the tea.

Herbal Laxative Tea: Take 90 gm Senna, and 10 gm Dhania. Ground them and boil the mixture in water. It helps in relieving constipation.

Vata Dosha Tea Recipe: Take 1/4 teaspoon each of freshly grated ginger, ground cardamom, cinnamon, ajwan seeds and 1 cup water. Mix all the ingredients. Boil the water and add the herb mixture to it. Steep for 5 minutes. Strain and then serve. It balances the vata dosha.

Pitta Dosha Tea Recipe: Take 1/4 teaspoon each of cumin seeds, coriander, fennel, fresh cilantro, rose petals, and 1 cup water. Mix all the ingredients. Boil the water and add the herb mixture to it. Steep for 5 minutes. Strain and then serve. It balances the pitta dosha.

Kapha Dosha Tea Recipe: Take 1/4 teaspoon each of dry ginger, dill seed, fenugreek seed, 1 clove , and 1 cup water. Mix all the ingredients. Boil the water and add the herb mixture to it. Steep for 5 minutes. Strain and then serve. It balances the kapha dosha.

If, after reading so many types of herbal tea, you plan to grow these herbs for yourself then read and review about 22 plans for herbal tea gardens.

HDL cholesterol: Home Remedies to boost your 'good' cholesterol

noreply@blogger.com (Eshanvi Smith) — Tue, 07 Feb 2012 04:23:01 PST

Raising HDL Cholesterol

Raising HDL or "good" cholesterol was not a priority until a few years ago. Most studies have focused on how lowering LDL or "bad" cholesterol that can reduce the risk or coronary heart disease. But in the past few years, researchers have identified that HDL acted as an independent factor and was also critical in the overall health of your heart. The National Cholesterol Education Program's new guidelines now recognize that low HDL levels as a strong independent risk factor for coronary artery disease.

HDL is a complex molecule made up of lipids, cholesterol, and protein. It cleans off the walls of blood vessels, thus removing excess cholesterol, LDL. The HDL then carries this cholesterol to the liver where it is processed. Doctors still focus strongly on lowering LDL but are now including recommendations that raising HDL is another important factor to reduce risk of heart disease.

If you have had your cholesterol levels checked and your HDL is less than 40, you should discuss with your doctor ways in which to increase the HDL level. Again, HDL level above 60 is ideal.

There are home remedies that will ultimately help increase HDL level. Give these home remedies a try as part of the cholesterol plan you've discussed with your doctor.

Garlic. Studies show that garlic may not only reduce LDL but raise HDL and decrease the amount of fat in your blood. Add some fresh garlic regularly to your cooking to keep your heart healthy.
Niacin is an important B vitamin that may raise your HDL, "good," cholesterol.
Almonds. Studies indicate that snacking on almonds regularly for as little as three weeks may decrease LDL by up to ten percent.
Honey. Add 1 teaspoon honey to 1 cup hot water in the morning, and you may rid your system of excess fat and cholesterol, according to Ayurvedic medicine. Add 1 teaspoon lime juice or 10 drops cider vinegar to give that drink a more powerful cholesterol-fighting punch.
Oats. In any pure form, oats are a traditional cholesterol buster. Eating only 1/2 cup oatmeal a day, along with a low fat diet, may reduce cholesterol levels by nine percent.
Rice. The oil that comes from the bran of rice is known to lower cholesterol. And brown rice is particularly high in fiber, which is essential in a cholesterol-lowering diet. One cup provides 11 percent of the daily fiber requirement.
Soybeans. These beauties may reduce LDL by as much as 20 percent when 25 to 50 grams of soy protein are eaten daily for as short a time as a month. Besides that obvious benefit, soy may fend off a rise in LDL in people with normal levels and also improve the ability of arteries to dilate. This means they expand better to allow the unimpeded passage of fats and other substances that otherwise might cause a blockage.
Walnuts. A cholesterol-lowering diet that includes walnuts eaten at least four times a week may lower LDL by as much as 16 percent. And studies indicate that those who munch on these nuts regularly cut their risk of death by heart attack in half when compared to non-walnut munchers.
Apples. Apples are high in pectin, which can lower cholesterol levels.
Artichokes. This veggie can actually lower cholesterol levels. Early studies pointed to their beneficial cholesterol-busting properties, but recent studies have shown that artichokes may be even more effective than they were first thought to be.
Beets. Full of carotenoids and flavonoids, beets help lower -- and may even prevent -- the formation of LDL, the bad cholesterol.
Carrots. Full of pectin, they're as good as apples in lowering cholesterol levels.
Olive oil. It protects your heart by lowering LDL, raising HDL, and preventing your blood from forming clots.
Pears. These are high in soluble fiber, which helps regulate cholesterol levels.
Rhubarb. Yep, this is a cholesterol-buster. Consume it after a meal that's heavy in fats. You can cook it in a double boiler, with a little honey or maple syrup for added sweetness, until done. Add cardamom or vanilla if you like.
Yogurt. Eating 1 cup plain yogurt with active cultures a day may reduce LDL by four percent or more and total cholesterol by at least three percent. Some scientists believe that eating yogurt regularly may even reduce the overall risk of heart disease by as much as ten percent.
Turmeric. This may lower blood cholesterol. Added to eggplant, you may reap twice the cholesterol-fighting benefit. Mix 3/4 teaspoon turmeric with 2 tablespoons cooked, mashed eggplant and 1 1/2 tablespoons boiling water. Spread it on whole wheat bread and eat after a meal heavy in fats.

Loose Weight

Quit Smoking

Trans Fat Foods

There are specific steps you can take that will ultimately help increase HDL level. Here are some of the proven strategies:

Moderate Drinking: Drink a moderate amount of alcohol. Moderate amounts of alcohol can increase your HDL. Moderation for men is two drinks per day, while women can enjoy one. Do not use this method if you have no interest in alcohol for the sole purpose of increasing HDL levels.

Loose Weight: Talk to your doctor about losing weight. Losing 6 lbs. can increase your HDL by 1 mg/dL. Losing weight can be difficult for some, however, if you view weight loss as a means of improving your health rather than dietary deprivation, it might be easier. Choose fruit over potato chips, try a new vegetable each week with dinner and replace soda with water. Over time, your weight will drop.

Exercise Regularly: Start exercising more frequently. Aerobic exercise helps increase HDL levels. Begin slowly if a sedentary lifestyle is what you currently live. Take a walk for 10 minutes, rake leaves for 10 minutes and ride a bike for 10 minutes. Space these sessions throughout your day until you feel comfortable, gradually working up to 30 or 40 minute sessions, five days a week.

Quit Smoking: Quitting smoking can increase your HDL by up to 10 percent. Make it easier on yourself, and use a smoking cessation product to ward off the cravings. Over-the-counter products are available, as are support groups and behavioral therapy. Speak to your doctor and decide what method might work best for you.

Eat a healthier diet. Reducing the amount of fat you consume has a positive impact on your HDL cholesterol. Only 25 to 35 percent of your total daily calories should come from fats, both good and bad. Saturated fats, such as red meat, whole fat dairy and eggs, should account for 7 percent, trans fats like cookies, cakes and snack foods should comprise 1 percent and the remaining should come from good fats such as mono- and polyunsaturated fats. Sources include avocados, nuts, canola oil, olive oil and sunflower oil. Consider omega-3 fatty acids as well. The greatest source is fish such as tuna, cod, salmon and mackerel.

Selection of Oils: Use cooking oils higher in monounsaturated fats, such as canola or olive oil. It is found that monounsaturated fats raise HDL levels.

Eat at least two servings of soy (phytoestrogens) products. Tofu, tempeh, and TVP (texturized vegetable protein) may help raise HDL levels. Include at least two servings each day.

Avoid trans fats i.e. hydrogenated oil or vegetable shortening (Dalda, Rath, and Vanaspati in India). Choose a liquid or semisoft variety of margarine in your diet Trans fatty acids are found in and many fast foods and french fries, baked goods such as cookies, crackers and cakes. Remember, the softer the spread, the less trans fat it contains.

Avoid refined carbohydrates like sugar and refined flour. These have shown to raise blood cholesterol and triglycerides.

Avoid food sources of cholesterol such as egg yolk, liver, kidney, brains, etc.

Avoid high fat dairy products such as regular milk, cheese and cream.

Why a Healthy Breakfast is Important to Lose Weight?

noreply@blogger.com (Eshanvi Smith) — Tue, 07 Feb 2012 04:12:32 PST

Most of the overweight people tend to skip meals. Breakfast is the most easier meal to be skipped. Everyone is in a hurry. We do not have time in the rushing hours of morning to listen to demands of our body. Hunger can be easily suppressed at this time of the day. This is a simple fact- you eat less, you weigh less but is it that simple? Do you really lose weight by not having breakfast, leave alone a healthy breakfast? Let us find out why mom (even ancient Ayurveda practitioners) used to say- Breakfast is the most important meal of the day!

What Does Breakfast Do?

Just try to take out the average time of your meal gap everyday. Suppose you eat between 8 to 9 pm every night and then wake up between 6-7 am in the morning, you have already not eaten anything for about 10 hours. Your body needs to recover from this brief period of starvation (thus the name breakfast) but then you skip your breakfast and have your lunch between 12-2 pm (depending upon the work load at your office). Now the meal gap has gone up to 16-17 hours. Till now you have not supplied the fuel to your body that keeps you running throughout the day. This might backfire on you because skipping meals almost always leads us to overeating. Now try to remember, did you had anything in between- not having breakfast and lunch? May be a handful of peanuts or popcorn, shared sandwich with colleagues, a number of tea or coffee (with all those teaspoons of sugar)? These things that seem to be little in amount, contain lots of calories and fat.

Breakfast, in the first place stops us from having junk food in between. It provides us with glucose- the fuel that keeps our motors running. Our brain and nervous system need glucose to work- for walking, speaking, stretching and for all activities.
When we eat early in the morning and gather the fuel right at the start of the day, we ensure that we use it up all. It speeds up our metabolism You will work for the whole day long and burn up your calories. Just imagine, not having a breakfast but having a rich dinner after which you will go to sleep. How will you burn up all those calories gained from delicious dinner? It will all be stored as fat in your body.
Breakfast ensures that we do not consume lots of calories during the day. If you will not feel hungry, chances are you will not eat those popcorn, chocolates, and in between snacks and avoid those calories.
An early meal also increases the leptin output of our body. Leptin is a hormone that suppresses appetite. Eating a wholesome meal early in the day ensures leptin production in our body. Researchers at the University of Texas, El Paso, studied the food diaries of 586 men and women and determined that the more food people ate in the morning, the fewer calories they consumed in an entire day.

These are enough reasons to be convinced about the importance of breakfast to lose weight. Eat your breakfast right and lose weight. Know some more tips on water weight loss

Ayurvedic Remedies for Prostate Problems

noreply@blogger.com (Eshanvi Smith) — Tue, 07 Feb 2012 04:24:13 PST

Prostate, the small organ below the urinary bladder in males has significant role to play in both- sexual activity and urination. It surrounds the urethra, the tube through which urine passes out of the body and produces seminal fluid discharged from penis during sexual stimulation. Prostate problems include the very common prostatitis- the inflammation of the prostate gland. Ayurveda recognizes two specific prostate problems-

Mootrakruchra - painful urination, and
Mootraghaata - suppression of urination.

They are, in fact, symptoms of prostate problems. Apart from these two main symptoms, other symptoms include problematic urine flow, dribbling, increased urination, hematuria (blood in urine), urinary tract infection and urinary retention.

Herbal Remedies for Prostate Gland Problems

Ayurveda suggests many herbs for the treatment of prostate gland problems:

Punarnava or Hog Weed (Boerhaavia diffusa) – It is useful in all urinary problems caused due to prostate ailments.

Prickly Lettuce (Lactuca scariola) -The bitter tonic of its leaves is very effective in treatment of enlarged prostate gland.

Shalaba mishri or Salep Orchid (Orchis mascula) - Useful where prostate problems are due to vata vitiation.

Gokshura or Small Caltrop (Tribulus terrestris) - This Indian herb, tribulus terrestris, is useful in treatment of urinary complications caused due to prostate problems. Its fruit is boiled in two cups of water till it is reduced to half the amount and drunk after mixing sugar in it.

Home Remedies for Prostate Gland Problems

Some remedies for prostate problems are available as common ingridients at home:

If having enlarged prostate, eat a mixture of juniper berries and parslane.
Eat more tomatoes to avoid prostate infections.
If experiencing prostate problems, have alternate cold and hot hip baths for about ten minutes daily.

Remaining sexually active is advisable but over indulgence is prohibited by ayurveda. Regular exercise, even walks or mild exercises are a must. Never suppress the urge to urinate. Don't sit on a hard stool for longer periods. If doing desk job, get a soft ergonomic chair to sit on. Quit smoking and alcohol, especially if you are overweight. Taking these precautions will certainly keep the prostate problems at bay.

How Many more Cardiac Arrest Sufferers can be Saved?

noreply@blogger.com (Eshanvi Smith) — Tue, 07 Feb 2012 04:23:40 PST

Not one or two but 325,000 people die each year in the United States due to Sudden Cardiac Arrest (SCA). However, when CPR - Cardiopulmonary resuscitation, is provided immediately after the attack it can double a sufferers chance of survival.

But administering CPR is easier said than done, here's why? When in a study, thirty-eight doctors and nurses of both genders were evaluated for their ability to perform manual CPR, a considerable loss in their ability to provide sufficient compressions over a time period was found. And that men – supposedly endowed with more muscle power – fared no better than their fairer sex counterparts.

So what if there existed a medical device that was so portable that it didn't need to be transported using a hospital trolley, instead, could simply be strapped around a patient to aid immediate CPR, virtually anywhere and in any situation? Well it seems that the the wait could now be over, as scientists may have struck gold already.

A Life Saving Medical Device

Inventors of the device called, LifeBelt(R) CPR, may be on their way to make life safer with this appliance. This device is designed to overcome the limitation of "hands-only" CPR and is able to help the patient by producing chest compressions for about two minutes. Also, with the use of this device half as much force is needed to administer CPR, enabling the emergency response personnel or anyone providing the CPR to do it more effectively, and not lose steam out of fatigue, too soon. No wonder than this appliance also won a “Create the Future Design Contest” sponsored by NASA Tech Briefs magazine.

When Thomas Jefferson said “Where a new invention promises to be useful, it ought to be tried,” I'm positive he didn't refer to life support medical devices!

Hibiscus : The Fun Facts

noreply@blogger.com (Eshanvi Smith) — Tue, 07 Feb 2012 04:24:43 PST

Not many know that hibiscus-the flower, is used for a number of purposes other than the bouquets and decoration. The flower in itself is found in a four vibrant colors namely- red, yellow, pink and white. This flower is processed and used as a food additive for providing a red tinge to the dish. Other than this, hibiscus flower and colors happen to serve various other purposes. Have a look:

1- Dried Hibiscus petals are used for garnishing the food in certain areas,specially, Mexico. In fact, the natives of Mexico treat hibiscus as a vegetable and consume it by making delicious dishes out of it.

2- Hibiscus flower is regarded divine as per the Indian mythology hence, it used for worshiping in temples and people dedicate its offerings to their gods.

3- Being a wonderful hair stimulator, hibiscus is extensively used as a herbal ingredient in various hair conditioners and shampoos.

4-Hibiscus tea is a a favored beverage among people as it is herbal and has therapeutic effects on body.

5-Handmade papers use hibiscus as an indispensable constituent in its manufacturing.

6-There are immense medicinal and curative properties of hibiscus flower. It is commonly used for treating dandruff and blood pressure. Apart from that, hibiscus extracts are useful in curing respiration problems, indigestion and loss of appetite etc.

7-The most popular use of hibiscus is as a food color. Just like the cochineal extract, hibiscus's inherent red-blue color is used in food products after boiling the dried hibiscus petals in water.

8- Since hibiscus contains vitamin c, many a times it is used for adding a tangy flavor to various foods and drinks.

Thus, after the above mentioned facts it is rather evident that not only is hibiscus a beautiful flower, but also an extremely useful product too.

Natural Ways to Grow Long Healthy Hair

noreply@blogger.com (Eshanvi Smith) — Thu, 16 Feb 2012 01:00:17 PST

Long Healthy Hair

Nutrition is one of the major factors deciding the health and growth of hair. Amino acids and B complex vitamins are among the primary nutrients required by hair.

Proteins constitute the major part of in the composition of hair. Therefore, the first thing that you should do is increase your consumption of proteins. They are present in ample proportions in the foods as fish, beans yogurt and beans. It has been found that the proteins, which are obtained from yeast, wheat germ, calves liver, are the best for hair. In addition, nutritionists suggest the consumption of two tablespoons granulated lecithin for those who have hair growth problems.

On the other hand, vitamins are very important for maintenance of the health of hair. Vitamin B complex group as beta-carotene, b-6, Inositol folic acid biotin etc. are among the important ones. In addition to this, minerals as magnesium, sulfur, zinc and silica as well are crucial for hair growth. Therefore, increasing their intake as well is important. For this, you can consume the green leafy as well as yellow colored vegetables and fruits.

Few things to take care

Stop using fine-tooth combs, as these will always have a tendency to entangle your hair and break it prematurely. Try to use wide-tooth combs that will not pull unnecessarily at your hair.
Do not comb your hair when it’s wet.
A weekly massage of the scalp with warm lavender oil at night will encourage your hair to grow easily and well.
Always use mild shampoo to wash your hair.
Drink plenty of water and sleep for 8 - 9 hours a day, since hair grows when a person is resting. Exercising daily will also improve the blood circulation and help your hair grow quickly. Hair grows faster when there is less stress.
Trim your hair often, at least once in 5-6 weeks, so that split ends and dry hair are removed. Hair stops growing at the split ends.

Some Natural Home Remedies

Onion juice is an excellent way to maintain the health of your hair. You can apply this to the scalp. It will also encourage new hair growth.
Conditioning your hair with henna, or mehendi is a very effective way to add strength to your hair. Prepare a conditioner with a cup of henna powder, the yolk of one egg and enough coconut milk to get a paste-like consistency. Apply this to your hair and leave it for about four hours.
Cut a red onion in half, add four cloves of garlic and two cinnamon sticks. Put everything in a pot and bring to a boil for 15 minutes. Rinse hair with this infusion for four days in a row.
Grapeseed oil is believed to enhance hair growth. Give your scalp a massage using this oil before bedtime.
Cut three aloe vera leaves and scrape off the gel. Mix the gel with honey, and apply it to the scalp. Let it work for 20 minutes and rinse.
When cooking potatoes do not throw away the water. Let it cool, and rinse your hair with it. This rinse accelerates hair growth.
1 tablespoon of wheat germ, 1 tablespoon of brewer’s yeast, 1 tablespoon soy lecithin, 1 tablespoon honey, and one cup of yogurt. Combine all ingredients in the yogurt and eat it every day before breakfast. In one week you will see results; a hair full of strength and growing faster.
1 egg, 1 trickle of olive oil, 2 tablespoons honey. Apply to the scalp with a vigorous massage. Cover the head with a towel for 30 minutes. Wash normally.
A daily rinse with rosemary water will make hair grow faster.
Grind some curry leaves and grated amla. Heat coconut oil in heavy based vessel, add the mixture into that oil.leave it for ten minutes and switch off the stove. filter it and apply regularly. It really works .
Hot oil massages improve the circulation of blood in the scalp and make your hair grow faster. Coconut oil should be applied to the hair for at least an hour so that it is absorbed properly and then washed off. Castor oil can also be used.

Bhringaraja or Eclipta Alba

Ayurvedic Herbs For Promoting Hair Growth
Bhringaraj
Bhringaraja or Eclipta Alba is supposedly the best herb identified in ayurvedic science for the prevention of balding and premature graying. It is one of the best natural herbs for hair regrowth. A black dye which is extracted from Eclipta alba and is used for hair dyeing and tattooing purposes. Today, bhringaraj is used as a basic ingredient in various herbal shampoos promoting hair growth. One can also try the popular concoction of amla, bhringraj and brahmi oil for hair regrowth.

Amalaki or Embelica Officinalis

Amalaki
Amalaki or Embelica Officinalis is a proven hair supplement for hair regrowth. The Embelica Officinalis fruit better known as amla, is first sun dried and then boiled in coconut oil upto the point where the solid fruit part gets charred. After cooling, this solution is used for massaging hair which helps promoting hair growth and preventing pre-mature graying. In fact, amalaki for hair is so curative that the amla fruit soaked water can be used as a conditioner for hair. Just rinse them with this water and you will surely get a beautiful shiny mane.

Triphala

Triphala
Triphala refers to a combined mixture of three different herbs namely Haritaki also known as Terminalia Chebula, Amalaki also known as Embelica Officinalis and Vibhitaki also known as Terminalia Bellirica. This mixture called triphala if taken orally everyday, can effectively help in preventing hair loss. Also, it can be used by mixing it well in hot oil and then massaging scalp with it. Since triphala for hair is very effective, herbal shampoos and hair packs using triphala as a whole or either of the Terminalia Bellirica,Terminalia Chebula and Embelica Officinalis herb can be used for treating the issue of hair loss.

Algae Extract

Algae Extract
Seaweeds or sea vegetables have long known to have curative power as they contain high level of essential amino acid, minerals and vitamins. Out of thousands of different species found throughout the world’s oceans, about 400 species are used by people as medicine, health supplement, skin care, fertilizers etc. Some seaweeds such as Atlantic Kelp, Himanthalia Elongata are used as hair growth remedies. They act as anti-oxidant to reduce and heal damages to the scalp and hair and also provide rich source of essential building blocks (e.g. amino acid and vitamins) to help in growing new hair and adding the shine to the hair.

Aloe Vera

Aloe Vera for Healthy Hair

The gel that is taken from Aloe Vera plant is known for its ability to calm irritated skin and has the properties of anti-inflammatory and anitoxidant. When massage onto the scalp, the gel restores the PH balance of the hair and seals in the moisture content of the hair, making it an excellent hair conditioner. Beside protecting the scalp and hair, Aloe Vera also stimulates hair production and is used as a remedy against Alopecia.

Ginkgo Biloba
Ginkgo Biloba is a very popular herbal remedy that is thought to help

Ginkgo Biloba

with many problems, among them improving the circulation of blood to the brain and skin. The majority of herbalists who prescribe this for loss of hair do so believing that the increase of blood to the brain and skin delivers more nutrients to the hair follicles and so promotes hair re-growth.

Green Tea (Camellia Sinesis)
Green tea is another popular herbal remedy as it is believed that the enzyme 5-alpha-reductase is inhibited by the catechins found in the green tea. Some herbalists claim that you will reduce the risk of male pattern type baldness if you drink several cups of green tea or take it in capsule form on a daily basis.

Panax Ginseng

Panax Ginseng
Used in Asia for thousands of years, Ginseng’s well known benefits include promoting vascular circulation and regulating cellular metabolism. Used in shampoo or hair tonic, Ginseng helps to nourish and strengthen hair.

Some Recommended Products
Nutrilite Siberian Ginseng with Ginkgo Biloba
Nutrilite Natural B
Lotus Herbals Kera Veda Herbal Oil for Falling Hair
Lotus Herbals AmlaPura Herbal Shampoo
Khadi Gramodaya Hair Care Range

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Ayurvedic Therapies: Panchakarma- Purva Karma

noreply@blogger.com (Eshanvi Smith) — Thu, 26 Jan 2012 22:17:27 PST

Order is the state of health, as defined by Ayurveda, which exists when the digestive fire (agni) is in a balanced condition; the bodily humors (vata, pitta and kapha) are in equilibrium, the three waste products (urine, feces and sweat) are produced and eliminated normally, the seven bodily tissues (rasa, rakta, mamsa, meda, asthi, majja and shukra) are functioning normally, and the mind, senses and consciousness are working harmoniously together.

Ayurveda emphasizes preventative and healing therapies along with various methods of purification and rejuvenation. It can guide every individual in the proper choice of diet, living habits and exercise to restore balance in the body, mind and consciousness, thus preventing disease from gaining a foothold in the system.

The wrong diet, habits, lifestyle, incompatible food combinations (e.g. milk and fish, melons and grain, yogurt and meat or cooked honey etc.), seasonal changes, repressed emotions and stress factors can all act either together or separately to change the balance of V-P-K(Vatta, Pitta, Kapha). According to the nature of the cause, either vata, pitta or kapha undergo aggravation or derangement which affects the agni (gastric fire), and produces ama (toxins). This ama enters the blood stream and is circulated throughout the body, clogging the channels. Retention of toxins in the blood results in toxemia. This accumulated toxicity, once well established, will slowly affect prana (vital life energy), ojas (immunity), and tejas (cell metabolic energy) and result in disease. This can be nature's effort at eliminating the toxicity from the body. Every so-called disease is a crisis of ama toxicity. Ama is the basic internal cause of all disease, due to the aggravated doshas.

To stop the further production of ama Ayurvedic literature suggests putting the person on a proper diet with appropriate lifestyle, habits and exercise, and administering a proper cleansing program such as panchakarma.

Purvakarma: Pre-purification Measures
Before the actual operation of purification begins, there is a need to prepare the body in prescribed methods to encourage the body to let go of the toxins. The two procedures are snehan (oleation) and swedan(fomentation).

Snehana (oleation)
The literal meaning of this term is to make smooth or to oleate. It is the main purva karma procedure and is a specific treatment for vatic disorders.

Example: oily preparations, ghee, oils, fats etc.

Following are the indications of snehana:

Sexual exhaustion, Anemia, Anxiety, Dryness of the body, Senility

Snehana is also given to the patients of vimana and virecana.

The procedure followed involves the administration of oily preparations within fifteen to thirty minutes after sunrise. The quantity, duration and the type of preparation is pre decided and certain dietary restrictions are prerequisite. Warm, well-regulated liquid diet is preferred but one with stickiness or oleaginous is incompatible.

The following signs will indicate the effectiveness of the remedy:
Accelerated digestive power, Intolerance to fat, Loose motions, Lightness of the body, Smoothness of the body, Passage of flatus, Visible fat in the stool

After the treatment patients are advised to abstain from sexual activities, to use of warm water; sleeping only at night; avoiding anger, anxiety or loud talk.

Swedana (fomentation)
This refers to the remedy that involves practices involving heat to make the patient sweat. Following are the conditions for which swedana is given to patients:
Corrhyza, Cough, Headache, Paralysis, Constipation, Arthritis

On the second day of swedana, vamana is given and virecana after three days` interval. In case there is a need to give basti, nasya, rakta mokasana to the patients then they are given immediately after swedana.

The following signs prove the effectiveness of the therapy:
Disappearance of corrhyza, Relief from pain and stiffness, Remission of the disease

After the remedy the patients are advised to avoid cold water and take a nap after a light meal.

Five Basic Shodhans: Cleansing Methods

1) Vaman: therapeutic vomiting or emesis
2) Virechan: purgation
3) Basti: enema
4) Nasya: elimination of toxins through the nose
5) Raktalmoksha: detoxification of the blood

Cure for Skin Rashes and Itching

noreply@blogger.com (Eshanvi Smith) — Tue, 07 Feb 2012 04:25:49 PST

Author: peterhutch
Common rashes are often called dermatitis, meaning inflammation of the skin; they involve changes in the color or texture of the skin including skin redness or inflammation. Common rashes are also known as skin lesions, Rubor and Erythema.

Skin reactions are more common today due to many new fabrics in use. Some of the body rashes affect the whole body (termed as a generalized), where as others appear on discrete areas of the skin. Skin rashes can be self limiting or require medications. Babies often develop skin rashes because of irritation from the coloring materials in these fabrics. Skin or the body rash is a common term that describes a group of special spots, an area of inflammation or altered color or texture of the skin. Skin rashes might be associated with various other symptoms such as itching, tingling, burning, pain, inflammation and sometimes, surprisingly with no discomfort at all. Belladonna remedy is useful for conditions with sudden onset that are hot, bright red, and throbbing. Rash may be accompanied by fever.

Oatmeal bath is preferred
Applying olive oil to the rash could provide some relief.
Aloe Vera gel, cod liver oil and Vitamin E oil are also helpful in combating body rash.
Using baking powder on the affected area is another suggestion to deal with body and back rash.

Aloe Vera: Widely known for treating burns and sunburns, aloe vera also helps in healing wounds and minor skin irritations such as itchiness and rashes. This plant produces anti inflammatory, anti bacterial, and anti fungal properties. It also contains folic acid, zinc, and vitamins C and E.

Chamomile Essential Oil: Has anti inflammatory (anti-microbial) properties that soothes and eliminates an itchy skin rash and irritations. Chamomile is also used in treating eczema, psoriasis, and sunburn. Please be aware, people who are normally allergic to grass and ragweed may acquire an allergic reaction to chamomile.

Witch hazel: Acts as an astringent that relieves itching and minor skin inflammation. Also used for treating sunburns. For maximum benefit, use fresh witch hazel bark. Simmer one ounce of the bark with one pint of water and leave for ten minutes. Strain and cool. Apply with a clean cloth and leave it on for about thirty minutes.

There are natural alternatives to cortisone cream treatment for rashes. For example Eczema is often treated with cortisone cream to combat the itching. There is, unfortunately, no known cure for Eczema, but natural medicines can help reduce the symptoms of Eczema without the harmful side effects associated with cortisones and other pharmaceutical medications.

There are many treatment of skin Rashes. Cortisone is often used to decrease local inflammation, swelling, burning and itching often associated with common rashes. Many natural remedy creams that provide instant and long-term relief rashes. The best home remedy for body rashes is to apply olive oil on the rash affected area. Belladonna remedy is useful for conditions with sudden onset that are hot, bright red, and throbbing. Rash may be accompanied by fever. Ledum palustre remedy is indicated for a puffy and swollen rash. Both the swelling and the itching are relieved by cold applications.

Itch relief is important, because scratching can itself irritate the skin and lead to more itching, creating an itching-scratching-itching cycle. Fingernails should be kept short to minimize abrasions from scratching. Applying eucalyptus oil on the skin can be helpful or take a cotton ball or Q-Tip and apply Tea Tree Oil full strength to area that is itching.

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/skin-care-articles/cure-for-skin-rashes-and-itching-372619.html

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Ayurveda Basti Treatment, Medicated Enema, Vasti Treatment

noreply@blogger.com (Eshanvi Smith) — Tue, 07 Feb 2012 04:26:20 PST

Basti therapy is one of the major pancharma treatments. Ayurvedic basti refers to the introduction of certain oils, herbal concoctions, and sometimes milk or other liquids through the perineum- anus, urethra in men or vagina in women. Basti is the most effective treatment for vata dosha or vata disorders. The term 'Basti' literally means bag or bladder. In ancient times, sterilized urinary bladders of animals were used to inject the fluids into the rectum. Therefore, this ayurvedic therapy came to be known as Basti Karma.

Basti is effective for most of the diseases. In ayurveda 50% of the treatment can be cured by basti treatment. It increases weight in emaciated people, decreases weight in the obese, improves vision, prevents aging, brings back lustre and strength, and healthy longevity. It is specifically for vatic disorders. Digestive disorders like dry colon, dry rectum condition and the tendency towards constipation resulting from diseases patients gets relief through bastis.

It also provides relief in conditions like distensions of abdomen, flatulence, spastic colon, dryness of digestive tract,in chronic fever, etc. General debility, impaired immunity bed ridden conditions like paralysis is also is treated by Basti. Facial palsy, muscular dystrophy and other related disorder can be cure by Basti treatment. Basti treatment can also be used for immunity and health promotion in ayurveda there are few bastis, which is meant for nourishment and longevity.

As a whole basti is meant for top to bottom and head to toe treatment. Its efficacy is from skin, the outer layer to our vital organ such as heart, mind, lunges, kidney and intestestine etc.

There are different types of internal Bastis (Pakwashaya):

Anuvasana Basti - enemas with medicated oils, ghee, herbal milks, buttermilks etc.

Nirooha-asthapana Basti - enema of different kind of medicated, herbal water.

Uttar Basti – in different kind of condition of uterus this basti is given to patients. It is useful for infertility, swollen uterus, such as uterine prolapsed, urinary obstruction, habitual abortions, leucorrhoea, mennorhagia etc.

Mutrashaya Basti - medicated fluids are introduced through the urethra (male)

Vranagata Basti – medicated decoctions are used to clean and heal the wounds and abscesses.

Yoga Basti - a series of 8 treatments, beginning with Anuvasana Basti then followed by Nirooha basti. These two treatments are given on alternate days and the last two treatments are concluded with Anuvasana Basti

Kala Basti - a series of 16 treatments, beginning with Anuvasana Basti then followed by Nirooha basti. These two treatments are given on alternate days and the last four treatments are concluded with Anuvasana Basti

Karma Basti - a series of 30 treatments, beginning with Anuvasana Basti then followed by Nirooha basti. These two treatments are given on alternate days and the last six treatments are concluded with Anuvasana Basti

Bruhan Basti - nutritional enema. This basti is very much useful for the patients who are very weak physically and emotionally. This basti is useful for weight gain and for colour complexions.

Prior to Basti treatment Bowels and bladder must be evacuated. 10 to 15 minutes warm oil massage on the belly and back fomentation is required. For panchkarma treatment emesis and purgation treatments are given prior to basti treatment. Decoctions enemas are to be retained for 48 minutes (minimum 15 minutes).

Contraindications:
Basti is generally contraindicated in all types of dysenteries, diarrhea’s, diabetes, pulmonary tuberculosis, severe anemia, per rectal bleeding. It is also contraindicated in infantile problems and senile debility.

Contra-indications for Nirooha Basti : If patient too tired very thin intoxicated states, dryness of throat, suffering from tuberculosis, peritonitis, diabetes etc.

Contra-indications for Anuvasan Basti : Persons in whom Nirooha basti is contraindicated Anuvasan basti is also contra-indicated. Emaciation, anaemia, fever, jaundice, poisoning, diarrhoea, dysentery, fasting piles etc.

Complications of Basti therapy
In incomplete basti treatment patient gets headache, gas, acidity, loss of apitite, pains and cramps in abdomen, anorectal itching, inflammation, ulceration, piles, fissure and giddiness. For pain in abdomen after Basti, massage the abdomen gently! For headache immediately after Basti, head and forehead massage followed by Ginger tea, rock salt etc. can be given. If liquids are not expelled after 48 minutes another Basti treatment is prescribed with hot water (38C) and fomentation to the lower back and abdomen. Warm water can also be consumed. If complications arise fast acting purgatives (e.g. Castor oil with warm water or prune juice) must be administered immediately to expel loosened toxins from the colon.

Advantages of Ayurvedic Basti Treatment
Ayurvedic Basti restores the balance of the doshas or the body types. The Vata body type, in particular, can get the maximum benefit of basti ayurvedic therapies. Some of the advantages of Basti include

• It increases weight in emaciated people by providing high nutrition and rejuvenation.

• It is also beneficial in weight loss programmes as some basti treatments reduce weight in the obese

• It improves vision

• It prevents aging and brings back lustre, strength, and longevity.

• It provides relief from constipation, distention, chronic fever, cold, kidney stones.

• It is also used to cure sexual disorders.

• Basti is very beneficial in preventing heart pain, backache, sciatica and other pains in the joints.

• As vata disorder is the main cause of many pains including joint pains and knee pain, basti provides relief in such conditions as arthritis, rheumatism, gout, muscle spasms and headaches.

• It is also effective for most of the digestive disorders like dry colon, dry rectum condition and the tendency towards constipation resulting from such conditions.

These were only some conditions where basti proves to be beneficial. Ayurveda practitioners use basti for treating many other medical conditions including certain chronic diseases too.

Side Effects of Basti
If administered properly, Basti karma has very few or no side effects on the body. When Basti therapy remains incomplete, one can experience spasmodic pains, burning sensation, anorectal itching and pain, anorexia, blockage of stools and wind. If excessive basti treatment is provided, it may cause anorectal inflammation and ulceration, fissure, weakness, and muscular cramps.

Autism Can Be Managed Naturally: Alternative Health News

noreply@blogger.com (Eshanvi Smith) — Tue, 07 Feb 2012 04:26:52 PST

Autism has grown to be likely by far the most damaging sorts of nerve ailments acknowledged to medication and science. It could possibly cause critical hurt at about three areas of the person’s improvement, significantly the habits, communication and social interaction ranges. The condition is usually regarded through the entire initial phases on the kid’s existence, even when early as infancy. For those who believe that the kid or member of the family is having difficulties together with the problem, you must have your doctor study them and operate some checks to confirm this.

- autistic persons have issues indicating empathy or knowledge when someone else is in distress or pertinent with each other which signifies they have got an issue with their emphatic capabilities

- remaining absent from eye-to-eye communicate with or receiving issues interacting socially with others

- inadequacies or inappropriateness with non-verbal and verbal communication skills

- adhd or hypo-activity which signifies intense habits layouts which includes remaining absent from interaction, getting quite energetic, remaining excessively inactive, heading by way of a tough in acting or calming reduced, and demonstrating small if any response to stimuli

- not reacting to listening to their names becoming often known as

- very poor imitation capabilities for instance resembling essential gestures or facial expressions

- fighting off conduct or setting alterations significantly when it will involve permitting some others to hinder their distinct applications for instance participating in repetitious, stereotypical attractions and steps indication of autism

- the insufficient capacity to understand the existence of risk and do some thing about this simply just simply because they usually do not know possibly risky ailments

- the inclination to consider element in particular pursuits or steps which could most likely direct to them performing hurt to on their own such as banging their heads from equivalent to their child cribs or most likely a wall or itching on their own excessively.

Autism now can be managed with natural medicines and therapies. rVita Ayurveda center at Chennai has created a unique and effective healing plan with Ayurveda, Yoga with diet and Social and behavioral therapies. Usually they create a healing plan varies from 12-18 months with Ayurveda therapies, yoga plays for child and parents, specialized nutritional diets etc.

Call Dr Gowthaman, Medical Director of rVita Ayurveda centers & www.rvita.com at 1800 425 4325 (India) / 00 91 9940079511 for a telephonic consult / gowthaman@rvita.com for a e mail consult.

Gout(Vatrakta) and Ayurveda Detoxification Therapies

noreply@blogger.com (Pallavi Vyas) — Tue, 07 Feb 2012 04:27:24 PST

Gout is one of the commonest forms of arthritis becoming very common in India. Accumulation of toxins is the primary cause and pathogenesis of this condition. This fact is well accepted by Modern, Ayurveda and most of the traditional medical systems across the world.

Excessive accumulation of uric acid leads to formation of small uric acid crystals which are deposited in the joints and causes recurring joint inflammation and pain. In chronic cases, the larger amounts of uric acid crystals leads to complete destruction of joints, decreased
renal function and renal stones. High blood uric acid levels could also leads to this condition without any history of pain. This condition is marked by fever and extremely painful joint inflammation with rapid onset.

Gout usually starts with affecting one or two joints. Pain and inflammation usually disappears in 7-10 days time with or without any treatments. The second or later attack may be after months or sometimes after years. Gout usually starts with joints of the feet and ankles, most commonly the big toe. As time goes it spreads to other joints leads to disability and crippling. Men are most affected with gout however women after menopause too have the same risk as men.

Inflammation or gout is known in Sanskrit term as vatrakta. Panchakarma therapy is one of the most effective treatments in curing gout. VataRakta is a combination of two words Vata & Rakta. There are three known synonyms (identical) of vatrakta. They are Khuda, Adhayavata and Vatabalasaka. The description of each synonym is as follows:

Khuda
Khuda means small joints. Since in this disease, the small joints are inflicted it is called as Khuda Vata

Adhayavata
Adhaya means the rich class of people & those who are delicate. Since this class of people is generally inflicted with the disease, it is also called as Adhayavata.

Vatabalasaka
The aggravated vata having been obstructed in its passage by aggravated blood, affects the entire blood.

Symptoms

Shate Atiruk- Severe pain on injury
Sandhi Shaithilyam- Laxity in joints
Excess or absence of perspiration.
Sedation like feeling.
Acute pain on any kind of wound.
Lack of sensation in knee, thigh, feet, shoulder.
Unusual facial appearance.
Karshnya- Blackness
Sparshaagyatvam- Anaesthesia
Aalasyam- Lassitude
Sadanam- Malaise
Pidakodgam- Appearance of boils
Bhedo Gurutvam Supti Kandu - piercing pain, quivering, tearing, heaviness
Numbness & itching in knee, shanks, thigh, waist, shoulder, hands, feet & joints of body.
Sandhishu Rug Bhutva- unstable pain in joints.
Vaivarnam & Mandalotpatt- abnormal complexion & appearance of patients.

Ayurveda explains the following are causes for Gout

Excessive sleep during day time.
Irritation & Anger.
Consumption or eating during dyspepsia.
Intake of diet consisting of an excess of sour, pungent, alkaline, fatty, hot & uncooked articles, moist or dried things, meat of aquatic & marshy animals, oil-cakes, radish, horse gram, black gram, nishpava and other leguminous. Vegetables, seasum paste, sugar cane, curd, sour gruel, sauvira, shukta (vinegars), butter milk, sura are asava also the causative factors
Incompatible food
Eating during indigestion

Ayurveda Classification According To Doshas

1. Control of Vata
Enlargement of vessels, soreness, shivering and sharp pain, coarseness, exasperation, tightening of veins and joints, inflexibility and severe ache in body parts.

2. Control of Rakta
Inflammation with severe and sharp pain and swelling.

3. Control of Pitta
Over excitement, severe pain, acidic sensation after meals, weakness, dehydration, swelling and desiccation.

4. Control of Kapha
Sensation of Humidity, bulkiness and placid ache.

Complications
Some things need to be taken care of when treating this disorder:

Insomnia.
Pain.
Dehydration.
Fever.
Psychological mystification.
Sudden glitch.
Loss of appetite.
Indigestion.
Sleepy feeling.
Swelling.
Smoldering sensation.
Inflexibility in body parts.
Tumor.

Ayurveda therapies for prevention of Management of Gout
Ayurveda recommends therapies for prevention as well as for the management of this condition. Ayurvedic treatments for gout vary depending on the condition of the patient and the severity of the disease. Ayurvedic treatments for gout consist of detoxification therapies (Pancha karma), oral medicines and diet regulations. Snehanam-(Oleation), virechanam- (purgation), abhyanga-(massage), pradeha, pralepa-(medicated packs) and basthi-(enema) are the treatments suggested in the treatment of gout.

a. Abhyanga (Oil massage) - It increases the metabolism, which leads to better tissuerespiration and circulation, causing the body to flush out its waste products more efficiently. It helps in alleviating rheumatic disorders. It improves flexibility, softness and firmness of the skin and for long life. It is the most ancient method used to remove muscular fatigue and pain.

b. Pizhichil (Oil bath)- In pizhichil, lukewarm medicated herbal oil is poured all over the body. This treatment is very effective in rheumatic diseases like arthritis, Gout, nervous weakness and nervous disorders. This treatment is prescribed not only for rheumatic ailments (vatic disorders) but also for many other diseases like diabetes, blood pressure, fits, convulsions etc.

Home Remedies for Gout
A. Apples are good for gout
B. 3 ml of lemon juice mixed in 100 ml of water, thrice daily helps the kidney to detoxify
C. 30 ml French bean juice said to be effective in gout. It has to be taken for at least 30 days as one course
D. Cherries play a vital role in improving the anti oxidants in the system. Some naturopaths recommend 10 fresh cherries a day to keep the gout in control.
E. Carrot juice mixed with the juices of beet and cucumber acts as diuretic hence it is recommended for Gout
F. A charcoal bath is a good Home Remedy for Gout. Mix in old basin one half cup of charcoal powder with water until a paste is made. Place affected foot into the basin and add water until the foot is enclosed. Steep your foot in the charcoal bath for thirty to sixty minutes.

Commonly used drugs

Basically, all ayurvedic medicines are used. Some of them commonly used are as follows:

Guggul

Gokhshuradi (Sharngdhar Sanhita)
Kaishor (Sharngdhar Sanhita)
Panch Tikta Ghurta (Bhaisajya Ratnavali)
Mahayograj (Sharngdhar Sanhita)
Yograj (Bhaisajya Ratnavali)
Sinhnad (Bhaisajya Ratnavali)

Bhasma

Shrung (Ras Tarangini)
Shankha (Siddha Yog Sangraha)
Swarna Makshik (Rasendra Saar Sangraha)
Praval (Ayurved Saar Sangraha)

Arishtha / Asava

Dashmularishtha (Bhaisajya Ratnavali)
Chandanasava (Bhaisajya Ratnavali)
Maha Manjishthadyarishtha (Siddha Yog Snagraha)

Rasa Kalpa /Vati / Mandur

Samshamni (Siddha Yog Sangraha)
Gandhak Rasayan (Ayurved Prakash)
Punarnavadi Mandur (Ayurved Saar Sangraha)

Conclusion
Our eating and living habits, environmental factors etc produces toxins which usually accumulated in the body and ends up with conditions like Gout. Ayurveda’s five purification therapies (Pancha Karma) are primarily targeted to remove these toxins and rejuvenate the human system which in turn helps in prevention and management of Gout better than any other modern medical systems.

YOGA CURE FOR ARTHRITIS during winter.
Watch Swami Ramdevs Yoga Tips on how to cure arthritis, joint pain, gout and osteoporosis. Swami recommends several exercises and medicines. Just click Play Video button below.

Useful Links
www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
Gout - Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia

Pitta Dosha: All About Pitta | Ayurveda

noreply@blogger.com (Eshanvi Smith) — Tue, 07 Feb 2012 04:27:47 PST

As per Ayurveda, the body is made up of tissues (dhatus), waste products (malas), and doshas (loosely translated to Energetic Forces). It is the Tridoshas' job to assist with the creation of all of the various tissues of the body and to remove any unnecessary waste products from the body. It is also the Tridoshas that influence all movements, all transformations, all sensory functions, and many of the other activities in the human body and mind. Out of this tridoshas the Vata dosha is the most important of the three doshas. The Pitta dosha is associated with fire or heat. Kapha is the heaviest of the three doshas. It provides the structures and the lubrication that the body needs.

Now lets understand what is Pitta Dosha, What are Pitta Body Types, and what is important for them to consider with respect to food and what all they need to avoid.

The Pitta Type Body
In Ayurveda Pitta is known as Energy of Digestion and Metabolism. Pitta dosha (bio-energy) is a combination of water and fire elements and formulated by the dynamic interplay of the both. These elements are transformative in nature thus they constantly modulate and control each other. In human body Pitta represents the fire element; it includes gastric fire or digestive fire, action of enzymes and amino acids that play a major role in metabolism, and the neurotransmitters and neuropeptides involved in thinking. People with pitta personality are known for warm friendly behavior and leadership qualities.

Pitta is hot, sharp, light, oily, liquid, and spreading in nature. It is sour, bitter, pungent to the taste, and has a fleshy smell. All these characteristics are revealed in the body of the pitta person. The main centers of pitta in human body are small intestine, stomach, sweat glands, blood, fat, eyes, and skin. Pitta governs digestion, absorption, assimilation, nutrition, metabolism, body temperature, skin coloration, the luster of the eyes, intelligence, and understanding. It gives the person appetite, vitality, and the capacity to learn, understand and determine what is right or wrong. The imbalanced pitta can cause many physical and psychological problems like anger, criticism, negative emotions, acidity, ulcers, heartburn, rashes and thinning hair. Pitta can be thrown out of balance by, eating spicy or sour food; being angry, tired, or fearful; or spending too much time in the sun. People with a predominantly pitta constitution are thought to be susceptible to heart disease and arthritis.

Pitta provides the following functions:
• Metabolism - at all the various levels from digestion of food to transformation of all other material
• Thermogenesis - maintains the proper body temperature
• Vision - converts external images into optic nerve impulses
• Appetite - the feeling of hunger and thirst
• Comprehension - of information into knowledge, also reasoning and judgment
• Courage & Braveness - to face the situation
• Complexion - gives color and softness to skin

Indications of Balanced Pitta
A balanced pitta is an indication of sound physical and psychological health of an individual. When in balance pitta ensures:
•  Good digestion
•  Energy
•  Goal-setting inclinations
•  Good problem-solving skills
•  Keen powers of intelligence
•  Decisiveness
•  Boldness and courage
•  Bright complexion

Indications of Imbalanced Pitta
•   Acidity, Heartburn
•   Fitful sleep, Disturbing dreams, Insomnia
•   Diarrhea, Food allergies
•   Bad breath, Sour body odor
•   Sensitivity to heat, Hot flashes
•   Skin rashes, Boils and Acne
•   Ulcers, Hot sensations in the stomach or intestines
•   Bloodshot eyes other vision problems
•   Weakness due to low blood sugar
•   Fevers, Night sweats
•   Anemia
•   Jaundice

Pitta Dosha Foods General:
You can balance excess pitta with foods that are dry, cool and heavy with a mild, naturally sweet, bitter or astringent taste. Milk, beans, rice, steamed vegetables and fruits are good for pitta people. Pitta body types generally like a lot of protein. The sweet items like maple syrup, brown rice syrup, barley malt, and honey are good.

• Mild spices: Coriander, cumin, and cilantro
• Vegetables & Fruits: can eat most vegetables and fruits.
• Grains: Barley, oats, wheat, parboiled rice.

General Tips on Health and Wellness For Pitta
When in balance, pitta promotes intelligence and understanding but when disturbed or imbalanced it produces anger and jealousy. To ensure sound and healthy living one should be aware with the causes and factors that can influence pitta dosha and also the ways to regulate them.

It is very important for Pitta people that they lead a pure and moderate life and try to keep cool. Pitta is a fire element; hence to balance it one should avoid excessive heat, oily, steamy and salty food, rigorous exercises that increase body heat, etc. Such people should opt foods, attitudes, behaviors, personal relationships, and environmental conditions that can be instrumental in balancing pitta.

They should take food that is sweet, bitter, and astringent because these tastes decrease pitta influences, do exercise during the cooler part of the day, and do things that cool the mind, avoid conflicts and choose cool climates. On behavioral front developing the virtues of honesty, morality, kindness, generosity, and self-control also help in balancing pitta dosha.

Pitta prakriti people should do meditation as it helps to control negative thoughts and calm mind and body. Optimum meal times for pitta people are: breakfast at 7 a.m., lunch at noon, a snack at 3 p.m. and dinner at 6 p.m.

The pitta people should use colors that are cool and calm, for example, blues and greens. These colors provide a soothing effect and help to control pitta. The stone should be worn by pitta people is Moonstone as this stone associate well with pitta dosha and drive positive influences.

Pungent and oily foods like curry, fried foods and spicy condiments should be avoided by people with pitta constitutions. Spices such as cayenne, garlic and dry ginger should completely be avoided. Stimulants like alcohol, smoking, coffee, vinegar, fried foods, pickles, spicy foods, fermented foods, almond, curds, corn, til, mustard oil are not good for pitta people. Beets, brinjals, carrots, garlic, hot peppers, onions, spinach, tomatoes need to avoided. Fruits that are to be avoided are like sour and unripe fruits, including grapefruit, papayas, peaches, bananas, apricots. Grains like brown rice, corn, millet, rye should not be taken.

List of favorable food items
Vegetables	Fruits	Grains	Dairy	Meat	Oil	Beverages	Nuts & Seeds	Herbs& Spices
Asparagus Broccoli Brussels sprouts Cabbage Cauliflower Celery Cucumber Green beans Green (sweet) peppers Leafy green vegetables Lettuce Mushrooms Okra Parsley Peas Potatoes Sprouts Squash Sweet potatoes Zucchini	Apples Avocados Cherries Coconut Figs Dark grapes Mangoes Melons Oranges Pears Pineapples Plums Prunes Raisins	Barley Oats Wheat White rice (prefer basmati rice)	Butter Egg whites Ghee (clarified butter )- unless you are watching cholesterol Ice cream Milk	Chicken Shrimp Turkey (All in small amounts)	Coconut Olive Soy Sunflower	Almond milk aloe vera juice apple juice apricot juice berry juice (sweet) black tea carob chai (hot, spiced milk)* cherry juice (sweet) cool dairy drinks grain "coffee" grape juice mango juice mixed veg. juice orange juice peach nectar pomegranate juice prune juice pear juice rice milk soy milk vegetable bouillon	Coconut Pumpkin seeds Sunflower seeds	Spices are generally avoided as too heating. In small amounts, the following sweet and astringent spices are OK Cardamom Cilantro(green coriander) Cinnamon Coriander seed Dill Fennel Mint Saffron Turmeric Plus small amounts of cumin and black pepper

List of unfavorable food items
Vegetables	Fruits	Grains	Dairy	Meat	Oil	Beverages	Nuts & Seeds	Herbs& Spices
Beets Carrots Eggplant Garlic Hot peppers Onions Radishes Spinach Tomatoes	Apricots Bananas Berries Cherries (sour) Cranberries Grapefruit Papayas Peaches Persimmons	Brown rice Corn Millet Rye	Buttermilk Cheese Egg yolks Sour cream Yogurt	Red meat and sea food in general )	Almond Corn Safflower Sesame	Apple cider berry juice (sour) caffeinated beverages carbonated drinks carrot juice cherry juice (sour) chocolate milk coffee cranberry juice grapefruit juice iced tea iced drinks lemonade papaya juice tomato juice sour juices	All, except mentioned above	All pungent herbs and spices, except as noted. Take only the minimal amounts of the following: Barbecue sauce Catsup Mustard Pickles Salt Sour salad dressings Spicy condiments Vinegar

Ayurvedic Herbal Massage to Balance Pitta

Ayurvedic herbal massage is a powerful tool with which you can build greater overall health. People who get ayurvedic herbal massage finds wonderfully relaxing and energizing at the whole time. If you are using ayurvedic herbal massage on daily basis you will find better sleep and easier, earlier mornings and it will help to keep your body free of illness and toxins.

Ayurvedic herbal massage has a wide range of benefits. Ayurvedic herbal massage helps for balance our Kapha dosha, Pitta dosha and Vata dosha. A person who are using ayurvedic herbal massage on daily basis, will get smooth and beautiful skin and always feel youthful. Ayurvedic herbal massage also helps to improve the strength and tone the muscles.
Know more: Ayurvedic Massage: Basic Principles of Ayurvedic Massage

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