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Women’s Wellness Workshop

Women’s Wellness Workshop The genuine beauty of a woman lies in her overall well-being and her capacity to lead an active lifestyle. Throughout the various stages of life, women encounter diverse health challenges. During adolescence, they face challenges related to menarche and associated issues. As young adults, they must balance career growth while managing premenstrual symptoms before embracing the joyful stage of pregnancy. After childbirth, the focus shifts to preserving health as new challenges arise. Additionally, many women experience menstrual disorders at different points in life, and as they age, they encounter the unique phase of menopause, accompanied by its own set of challenges. Here are some quick facts about women’s health: Significant health risks for women include cardiovascular disease, osteoporosis, and depression. Women are more susceptible to stress and depression compared to men, making them more likely to be diagnosed with these conditions. Women’s sexual health can be impacted by sexually transmitted diseases (STDs), reproductive issues, and various birth control methods. Osteoarthritis, which is the primary cause of disability  affects a higher number of women than men. Women are at a greater than twofold risk of experiencing urinary tract infections (UTIs) compared to men. Participate in our online women’s health session, where experienced doctor will provide valuable insights on self-care to help you take charge of your well-being. Register Now Schedule Faculty Details Date- 5th of August (Saturday) Time-12 to 1pm Registration fee- 99/- Dr Vasudha M Sharma BAMS,MSC, PhD

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International Yoga Day – 2024

International Yoga Day International Yoga Day Celebration 2024 at Vivekananda Health Global Call us to Join FREE elderly Yoga Session – 91 95913 36226 Click here for Corporate Yoga Support Yoga is a physical , mental , and spiritual practice that originated in ancient India. It encompasses a wide range of techniques and discipline aimed at promoting physical strength, flexibility, mental clarity, and overall well being. The practice of yoga involves various postures (asanas), breathing exercises, regulated breathing (Pranayama), meditation, and relaxation. International Yoga Day, also known as World Yoga Day, is celebrated annually on June 21st. Following a proposal by the prime minister of India, Shri Narendra Modi, June 21st was officially declared by the United Nations General Assembly in 2014 as the Day to celebrate the benefits of Yoga. The declaration of International yoga day highlights the universal appeal and benefits of yoga for people of all ages and backgrounds. International yoga day has gained significant recognition and participation globally. It has brought together people from diverse cultures, religions, and traditions, emphasizing the unity and harmony that yoga can foster. The celebration of this day serves as a reminder of the importance of maintaining a balanced and healthy lifestyle through the practice of yoga. Yoga has its roots in ancient Indian philosophy. The practice of Yoga as we know it today is an evolution of philosophical concepts and principles developed over thousands of years. In Indian philosophy, Yoga is often associated with various philosophical systems, including but not limited to : •Samkhya philosophy : Samkhya is one of the oldest schools of Indian philosophy and provides the theoretical basis for understanding the nature of reality and the self. It explore the concepts of purusha (consciousness) and prakrithi (material nature), and yoga is considered a means to liberate oneself from the influence of prakriti and attain self – realization . • Vedanta philosophy : Vedanta is a school of philosophy that focuses on the teachings of the upanishads , which are considered the final part of the vedas (ancient Indian scriptures). Vedanta philosophy emphasizes the ultimate reality of Bramhan (the absolute) and the illusion of the individual self (jiva).Yoga is seen as a means to realise the non-dualistic nature of Bramhan and Jiva. • Advaita Vedanta : Advaita Vedanta is a specific branch of Vedanta philosophy that advocated the non-dualistic perspective, asserting the Bramhan and the individual self are ultimately one. Yoga, in this context, is a path of self- inquiry and meditation to realise this non- dualistic reality. • Bhakti philosophy: Bhakti is the path of devotion and surrender to a personal deity or a divine figure. Bhakti philosophy considers yoga as a means to devlop a deep and loving relationship with the divine through practices such as chanting, prayer, and meditation. These philosophies helps individuals to explore the nature of reality, the self , and the ultimate purpose of human existence. Yoga philosophy encompasses a comprehensive system of beliefs, principles and practices that guide the understanding and application of yoga. Here are some key elements of yoga philosophy : 1. Patanjali’s yoga sutras :Patanjali , an ancient sage, compiled the yoga sutras, which serve as one of the foundational texts of yoga philosophy. The yoga sutras consists of 196 principles that outline the eight limbs of yoga (Astanga yoga) and provide guidance on achieving self realization and liberation (Samadhi). 2. Eight limbs of yoga : This is outlined in Patanjali yoga sutras, serves as a practical guide for leading a balanced and purposeful life. These limbs are : Yama, Niyama, Asana, Pranayama, Pratyahara, Dharana, Dhyana, Samadhi. 3. Mind-body connection : It recognises the intimate connection between the mind and body. It focuses on the harmony of both aspects to achieve overall well being through practice of yoga postures, breath control, meditation, to cultivate the state of balance, inner peace and self- awareness At its core , yoga philosophy seeks to facilitates self-realization and liberation from the limitations of the ego and the cycle of suffering. The philosophical foundations of yoga provide a framework for understanding the purpose , goals and techniques of the practice. We here in Vivekananda Health Global provide unique experience of evidence based and customized yoga program’s from wellness to disease management across different age groups. The graded approach from basic to advanced practices combines postures(Asanas),different breathing practices(Pranayama),internal cleansing practices(Kriyas),Meditation(Dhyana) and guided relaxation, helps establish complete state of physical and mental health , we in Vivekananda health global have yoga for positive health which has been moduled into various categories such as : 1. VY Active module – this is based on the classical texts of Patanjali Yoga Sutras and Hatha Yoga Pradipika. The focus is to build physical and mental strength through these ancient practices: Asanas (Postures) , Pranayama (Breathing Techniques) , Relaxation Techniques , Meditation , Kriyas (Cleansing Techniques), Trataka (Eye Exercise). 2. VY Cardio module – is designed to improve cardiovascular functioning, burn calories and sculpt a lean, toned body. It is essential for maintaining optimal functioning of the heart and lungs and increases flexibility due to series of intense asanas designed to produce sweat and offer a real work-out. 3. VY Dynamic module – Designed with a flow, focuses on the non-stop series of asanas performed in succession in order to discover inner rhythm which in return helps to gain control over breathing patterns whilst maintaining a steadily-paced physical practice. 4. VY Hatha yoga module – It combines breath regulation and the static maintenance of postures for a length of time. It involves basic postures done in slow pace and is based on a traditional, ancient practice described in the Hathayoga Pradipika. It offers the participant further scope to dwell deep into the asana practice through its slow, steady approach. Awareness of breath and maintenance of postures for lengthy duration, allows for gradual cessation of thought and the ability to achieve meditative states during the asana practice. 5. VY for Corporates – This program is offered to the corporates

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Integrative approach to Avascular Necrosis (AVN)

AVN – Avascular necrosis refers to death of bone tissue due to lack of blood supply. It is also named as osteonecrosis, aseptic necrosis, ischemic bone necrosis. Loss of blood supply to the bone tissues leads to tiny break in the bones and cause bone collapse. It typically affects the long bone at weight bearing joints. The most common sites for AVN are the femoral head, knee, humeral head. Hip joint is the commonest among other joints to get affected. AVN of hip joint causes the stiffness, pain in the outer and inner thigh and difficulty in walking.me. Case of AVN at VHG : A male patient aged 35 years old, came with a known complaint of AVN of bilateral hip joint. He had pain in right and left hip with radiating pain to left lower limb. He also complained of severe pain and stiffness with limping gait. He underwent a core decompression to his left hip a year ago and was asked to repeat it again as his pain resurfaced. Since he was not ready to undergo anther surgery, he approached VHG. MRI report of hip showed stage 2 Avascular necrosis (AVN) of right femoral head and stage 3 Avascular necrosis (AVN) of left femoral head with diffuse marrow oedema lesions. Treatment at VHG: Following a consultation, he was first prescribed Acupuncture for pain management and improvement of circulation and yoga therapy to help reduce his stress and therefore recovery for 7 days. This was followed by Ayurveda treatment as mentioned below: 1. Ekanga elakizhi for 4 days 2. Ekanga navarakizhi for 4 days 3. 5 days of Snehapana, 3 days of sarvanga abhyanga + steam and 1 day of virechana 4. Yogabasti for 8 days Following ayurveda, Acupuncture and yoga therapy was once again administered for 7 days In between the treatment he had pain intermittently for some days. By the end of treatment he the pain and stiffness reduced. Post treatment at VHG center at HSR layout, he continued medicines and yoga practice. MRI reports taken after 2 months showed no further progression of AVN. Pre & post changes: Visual analogue scale was used to assess her pain before and after the treatment. Visual analogue scale (VAS) is one of the pain rating scale. Numeral rating scale is the most commonly used rating scale in VAS were 0 represents no pain and 10 is the worst pain.     Pre Post VAS 8 2   Range of Motion     Pre treatment Post treatment Right Hip flexion 40 Degree 70 Degree Left hip flexion 40 Degree 60 Degree Internal rotation of right hip 30 Degree 40 Degree Internal rotation of left hip 30 Degree 35 Degree External rotation of right hip 30 Degree 35 Degree External rotation of left 30 Degree 35 Degree   His stiffness and limping reduced by 60% -70% post treatment. Conclusion: Integrative approach using Acupuncture, Ayurveda and Yoga therapy helped in Avascular necrosis.

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Case study – Secondary Amenorrhea (absence of periods)

Amenorrhea is absence of menstruation. Secondary amenorrhea refers that no menstruation for 3 months or longer. It occurs naturally in a woman with pregnancy, lactation and menopause. Other causes are as followed for secondary amenorrhea • Medications for long duration • Contraceptives • Sedentary lifestyle • Hormonal imbalance • Medical conditions We had a patient aged 29 years with the complaint of irregular menstrual cycle for the past 10 years. She was on oral contraceptive pills and was using the medications to induce the periods. Her ultrasound scan reports showed multiple cysts on the both ovaries. Treatment at VHG: Patient underwent on acupuncture and yoga therapy for 10 days. She was also continuing the ayurvedic medicines even after the treatment. As a second line of treatment she administered Ayurveda panchakarma treatment that is Virechana (includes 5 days of snehapana, 3 days of sarvanga abhyanga and 1 day of virechana Treatment outcome: Patient got her cycles naturally after 10 days of virechana treatment and after 4 months of her last menstruation. She was very happy with her results and looked forward for the other therapies as she was planning to conceive. Conclusion: Combination of Ayurveda, Naturopathy and yoga helps in regulating the menstrual cycle.

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 Mind Sound Resonance Technique (MSRT)

MSRT is an advanced guided Meditation technique. It is that technique that can take you into a deeply rested state of mind body complex through experiencing the internal sound resonance all over the body. It strengthens the will power and promotes positive health. MSRT Steps STEP 1 : Opening prayer STEP 2 : Ahata-anahata of A,U,M STEP 3 : Ahata-anahata of Mrityunjaya mantra STEP 4 : Anahata of AUM STEP 5 : Ajapajapa of OM to Silence STEP 6 : Stay in silence STEP 7 : Resolve STEP 8 : Closing prayer MSRT Meditation Benefits Let us try to understand mind, sound and Resonance Mind According to many Neuroscientists, mind is the expression of activity of the brain cells. According to Psychologist it is the sum total of all the cognitive functions that are carried out by the wakeful mind. According to yogic lore mind is Conglomeration of thougths.Our thinking apparatus is mind. Sound Sound, according to science is a form of energy. It moves as wave through compressions and rarefactions. Sound needs medium like air for its travel.it cannot move without a medium. Shabda, sound as postulated in yoga and spiritual lore is much broader and comprehensive than the sound conceived by science Shabda is spandana.Spandana is vibration. It is of two types, Audible (ahata) and inaudible (anahata). Resonance When the frequency of a forcing function coincides with the natural frequency of a system (object), oscillations (vibrations) with relatively higher amplitude occur. This phenomenon is known as resonance. Resonance is a weapon that can bring about powerful changes when used in the right way. This phenomenon of resonance is used in musical instruments such as tambura or violin. That resonance all over your body when your mind is turned to enjoy is the same phenomenon used in MSRT. MSRT technique uses the chanting and helps people achieve silence from within and ends with a resolve Silence States where there are no thoughts or you are not aware of them- thoughtless wakeful state. Resolve A clearly thought out,well formulated positive thought with minimum number of words is a resolve or ‘sankalpa’

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Integrated Treatment Approach to Uveitis- A Case Report

Uveitis is the inflammation of Uvea, the Pigmented layer that lies between the inner Retina and outer fibrous layer composed of sclera and cornea. Anterior uveitis is an inflammation of uveal tissue from iris to pars plicata. It can be categorized as iriditis, cyclitis, and iridocyclitis. It’s characterized by photophobia, pain, blurred vision and ciliary congestion. As per Ayurveda Uveitis can be compared with Raktaja /pittaja adhimantha . Anterior uveitis is an inflammation of the middle layer of the eye. This middle layer includes the iris and adjacent tissue, known as the ciliary body. It usually affects the people of 17-50 years of age. It can result from a trauma to the eye, such as being hit in the eye or having a foreign body in the eye. It can also be associated with general health problems such as Rheumatoid arthritis, Syphilis, Tuberculosis, viral or idiopathic, which is no obvious underlying cause. Most common symptoms seen in this condition are red, sore and inflamed eye, Blurred vision, Sensitivity to light and Small, or irregular-shaped pupil. If the condition left untreated, glaucoma, cataract or retinal edema can develop and cause permanent loss of vision. Anterior uveitis usually responds well to treatment .Reducing the inflammation by giving immune suppressant, managing the condition by steroids etc. are the treatment suggested in conventional science, as these have several side effects and chance of recurrence is high its comprehensive to adopt integrative treatment protocol to resolve the condition securely and overcome the recurrence. A 40 year-old lady presenting with redness and itching of the eye, with a sensation of having a particle of sand in the eyes (gritty eye) visited us to seek advise as she was not keen to take oral or local steroids and immune suppressants like Folitrax prescribed. She also complained of stress and Sleeplessness disease . The case was diagnosed as Uveitis related to Autoimmunity. Treatment at VHG The first line of treatment was Ayurveda oral medication for 15 days and Yoga therapy was taught for 7 days. After the 7 days of Yoga, she was asked to continue practicing Yoga on her own. The review after 15 days showed that she was feeling better symptomatically. She was further advised Nasya (Nasal cleansing therapy) for 7 days followed by Shirodhara (Ayurveda oil streaming on forehead) for 7 days. After 3 months from the initial intervention date, the ophthalmological examination showed significant changes and patient had perceived symptomatic relief. To ensure long term relief and to avoid recurrence she further underwent Panchakarma in the form of ” virechana ” (purgation) Treatment. Following this she was reviewed every month for 3 months and was found to be Asymptomatic. A follow up after 1 year also revealed that the patient continued to have good eye health. Pre and post assessments : Available data has been used with patient’s consent

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Mental Health Management

Good mental health is related to mental and psychological well-being. WHO’s work to improve the mental health of individuals and society at large includes the promotion of mental well-being, the prevention of mental disorders, the protection of human rights and the care of people affected by mental disorders. Everyone feels anxious and worried or down from time to time. But relatively few people develop a mental illness. Mental illness is a mental health condition that gets in the way of thinking, relating to others, and day-to-day function. Mental illness is an equal opportunity issue. It affects young and old, male and female, and individuals of every race, ethnic background, education level, and income level. The good news is that it can often be treated. Looking after mental health can preserve a person’s ability to enjoy life. Doing this involves balancing life activities, responsibilities, and efforts to achieve psychological resilience Stress, depression, and anxiety can all affect mental health and disrupt a person’s routine. Although health professionals often use the term mental health, doctors recognize that many psychological disorders have physical roots. Risk factors – Social And Financial Circumstances Adverse Childhood Experiences Biological Factors Underlying Medical Conditions Types of Mental Health Disorders Anxiety Disorders . Mood disorders. Behavioral disorders. Obsessive compulsive disorders (OCD). Eating disorders. Schizophrenia . Common Signs and Symptoms of the Mental Health Disorders Withdrawing from friends, family, and colleagues . Avoiding activities they would normally enjoy. Sleeping too much or too little. Eating too much or too little. Feeling hopeless. Having consistently low energy. Using mood-altering substances, including alcohol and nicotine, more frequently. Displaying negative emotions. Being confused. Being unable to complete daily tasks, such as getting to work or cooking a meal. Having persistent thoughts or memories that reappear regularly. Thinking of causing physical harm to themselves or others Hearing voices Experiencing delusions Diagnosis 1.Person’s medical history . 2.Physical examination. 3.Blood tests. 4.Psychological evaluation . 5.Mental health questionnaires. 6.diagnostic and statistical manual of mental. Treatment There are various methods for managing Psychotherapy Psychological approach to treating mental illness. 1.Cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) 2.Exposure therapy 3.Dialectical behaviour therapy Medication-Such as Antidepressants, Antipsychotics and Anxiolytic Drugs. The conventional approaches are limited to conservative management and regular medication can lead to long term drug dependence. Therefore its essential that effective methods in Ayurveda and Yoga are explored for positive solutions Yoga therapy – The basic approach is to relax the mind and improve the lifestyle by asana practice (stability and comfort), Pranayama and kriyas (regulation of breath), meditation, relaxation techniques, bhajans and mantra chanting (surrendering self to god). Yoga says – “If the mind is sleepy , stimulate and awaken it (using yogic techniques of fast breathing ,asana practice ); if its too excited calm it down (using slow breathing, yoganidra relaxation techniques, shavasana )” Ayurveda – Therapies such as Panchakarma can be very helpful as they trigger a better min body balance. As per Ayurveda, mental health problems are due to deranged Vata. Therefore correcting this imbalance and improve thought process with better clarity will be key to recovery. External treatments such as Shirodhara, Abhyanga complemented with Ayurveda formulations such Manasamitra vatakam Brahmi Ghritam etc are seen to be useful Dietary Management 1.Diet that includes reducing alcohol intake, smoking, avoiding drugs. 2.Avoiding spicy, fast foods, high sugary and salty foods, beverages. 3.Include a balanced, nutritious diet, such as plenty of fresh vegetables, fruits (seasonal), 4.dry fruits , green leafy vegetables ,which balances the body at the physical level. By Dr.Ashwini Basawaraj

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Frozen shoulder

Introduction: It is also called as adhesive capsulitis, involves stiffness and pain in the shoulder joint in the earlier stages and in later stages with restricted range of movements. Symptoms: Early Symptoms of Frozen Shoulder are – The full range of symptoms may arise over a period of around two years, but early symptoms include: 1. pain in the shoulder, especially unexpected pain, when no known injury is present 2. difficulty lifting one’s arm above the head 3. difficulty extending one’s arm across the body or reaching behind the back Frozen Shoulder typically develops slowly in three stages. 1. Freezing Stage – Any movement of the shoulder causes pain, and the shoulder’s ability to move becomes limited. This stage lasts from 2 to 9 months 2. Frozen Stage – Pain might lessen during this stage. However, the shoulder becomes stiffer. Using it becomes more difficult. This stage lasts from 4 to 12 months 3. Thawing Stage – The shoulder’s ability to move begins to improve. This stage lasts from 5 to 24 months. For some people, the pain worsens at night, sometimes disrupting sleep. Causes and Risk Factors : 1. Frozen shoulder results from inflammation and tightening of the capsule around the shoulder joint. The Risk Factors include: 2. Medical conditions such as diabetes, overactive or underactive thyroid 3. Immobility or reduced mobility due to arm fracture, stroke, or surgeries such as mastectomy 4. Age: More common among elderly persons 5. Gender: Women are at higher risk of developing frozen shoulder 6. Previous injury Diagnosis : Physical examination to check intensity of pain and range of movement Tests – X–RAY MRI Treatment: 1. Yoga Therapy -Yoga practice helps in relieving pain and stiffness of frozen shoulder, warms up the shoulder joint and frees up the spaces in the shoulder. Yoga opens the shoulder and chest area. This relieves stiffness and permits full and pain-less shoulder movements. 2. Ayurveda Therapies: Oral medicines are advised to reduce pain and inflammation along with external oil based treatments such Patra potalasweda or Elakizhi ( fomentation with medicated leaves bolus) , Pichu (oil padding therapy) and Nasya ( nasal errhines) 3. Stretch the Shoulder: Before beginning shoulder exercises for a frozen shoulder, try to warm up your shoulder by doing a few warm up exercises. This will improve the blood supply in the affected area and avoid future injuries by making your body more comfortable with the motion. The best approach is to extend and warm up the shoulder by applying heat for 10 to 15 minutes, scrubbing down or showering with Epsom salt. 4. Non-Intrusive Treatment: While these activities mentioned above can be easily performed at home, if pain continues and makes it difficult to move around or work ordinarily, see a physiotherapist who can appoint particular activities and can enhance your scope of movement, flexibility and strength. 5. Acupuncture: Acupuncture is considered one of the best treatment choices for any joint and nerve related problem. The treatment is based on focusing on the trigger points of the pain and putting pressure on them via needles. The treatment is not painful and is known to produce good results in the long run. 6. Dietary Supplements: Various supplements can be taken with the recommendation of a doctor, in order to improve recovery. :Anti inflammatory diet like turmeric, omega-3 fatty acids, magnesium and CoQ10 most regularly recommended elements that relieve swelling and repair the tissue in the shoulder

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Arthritis -Symptoms and Causes

Arthritis can be defined as inflammation or swelling of one or more joints. It also affects the surrounding tissues. Depending on different types of Arthritis, there may be varied symptoms, but they usually include joint pain and stiffness. Commonly seen Arthritis are: Osteoarthritis Rheumatoid Arthritis Osteoarthritis Let’s take a case: “A woman of age 67yrs who was normal three years ago gradually developed pain in both her knee joints. She experienced intense pain while walking, standing, or doing any work. She also experienced sounds (crepitus) while moving her joints. This affected her daily life, and she could not do her routine work. So, she opted for Ayurvedic treatment. She underwent a course of Abhyanga (Massage) with prescribed herbal oils and then underwent Virechana therapy. Gradually, she observed a reduction in pain. She was able to move joints without pain and difficulty.” Now let’s see what Osteoarthritis is: It is the most common type of Arthritis. It usually affects the joints of the hands, hips, and knees. Osteoarthritis is called Sandhigata Vata in Ayurveda, which is one among the Vata Vyadhis. Due to the localisation of morbid or vitiated Vata in the joints, it produces pain. Causes: Excessive exercise, Injury, Suppression of natural urges, Excess consumption of dry foods. Signs and Symptoms: Shula (Pain), Atopa (Crepitus), Shotha (Swelling), Vata purna driti sparsha (Sounds resemble that of when we rub against balloon), Prasarana akunchanayoho pravrutti savedana (Painful movement of joints when extended or flexed). Management: External management: Abhyanga (Massage) using herbal oils, Avagaha, Seka, Local Basthi Internal management: Snehapana, Virechana, Basthi Rheumatoid Arthritis Now, let’s take a case: “A man of age 72yrs who was normal ten years back gradually developed with Indigestion, Anorexia and Weakness. He took medications for indigestion but they didn’t give him complete relief. Slowly he developed pain in his knee joints and fingers. He could not move his joints properly because it caused him much pain. He also developed a fever and generalised body aches. His routine work was affected by this pain. The pain got aggravated when he was exposed to cold weather. So, he was first treated for indigestion by administering a different diet. He started with langhana (Fasting) and then was given tikta katu deepana medicine (Digestion-promoting medicines with a pungent and bitter taste). Lastly, he was given Virechana, one of the Panchakarma treatment. Now, slowly the pain is reducing, and he can work daily easily.” Let’s see what Rheumatoid arthritis is : It is a painful condition which initially affects the gut by producing symptoms like indigestion and anorexia. Later, it affects all tissues, joints, and bones. It is co-related to Amavata in Ayurveda. In this condition, vitiated Vata carries Ama into different body parts and effects. Causes: Viruddha Ahara (Incompatible food), Viruddha Chesta (Unwholesome lifestyle), Nischala (Sedentary lifestyle), Mandagni (Low metabolism) Symptoms: Generalised body ache, Anorexia, Thirst, Weakness, Fever, Indigestion, and Swelling in the affected body parts. Management: Internal management: Langhana (Fasting), Tikta katu deepana (Digestion promoting medicines with a pungent and bitter taste), Virechana, Basti. External management: Abhyanga (Herbal oil massage), Upanaha (Poultice), Swedana (Steam therapy). Gout Let’s take a case: “A man of age 35 years was normal two years ago, and now he gradually developed immense pain in his legs. He could not walk, climb stairs or stand for a long time. Slowly he observed inflammation in his legs and felt stiffness in his joints. Pain aggravated when exposed to cold weather, and he could not work effectively with the pain. He underwent Panchakarma treatment – Vamana (Emesis) and Virechana (Purgation). First, he started with digestion, promoting medicine to treat his indigestion. He was given snehapana to oleate the body and finally took pills for emesis and purgation. After the treatment, he observed a reduction in pain and inflammation.” Now let’s see what Gout is: It is a painful condition in which uric acid crystallises and deposits in the joints, which produces inflammation. This can be co-related to Vataraktha. Here vitiated Vata affects the Raktha dhatu and produces symptoms. Causes: Excessive consumption of salts-sour-pungent-oily and hot foods, indigestion, Sleeping during daytime. Symptoms: Pain, Numbness, Inflammation, Stiffness Management: Basti (Enema therapy), Rakthamokshana (Bloodletting), Vamana (Emesis), Virechana (Purgation). By Arpitha J Instagram Facebook

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Herbs for Heart Health

Cardiovascular diseases are now the number one cause of worldwide mortality. It is also a well known fact that the deteriorating heart health is mostly common in the urban population of developed and developing countries. It raises the question about our food and lifestyle changes in recent times. A healthy active body with a stress free mind hosts a healthy heart. Diet of natural, freshly prepared unprocessed food along with optimal physical exercise will keep the blood cholesterol, blood glucose and blood pressure in a normal range. This can be easily achieved by including heart healthy herbs in our day to day diet along with practice of yoga , pranayama and meditation . Ayurveda and Heart health: According to Ayurveda, Heart is the seat of Prana Vayu, the vital force of life. It is considered one among the three “Marma” or structures in the body which needs to be protected at all times both from physical as well as physiological disturbances. Ayurveda describes Hrid roga to be caused by the disbalances in any one of the doshas viz., vata, pitta or kapha or tridoshaja ( all three doshas together). Last category of hrid roga is caused by krimi (micro organisms) called krimija. All of them are dealt with appropriate drugs which can bring balance of the vitiated doshas. In Yogic science, the heart corresponds to Anahata chakra, fourth primary chakra and centre for love for oneself and others, compassion, empathy and forgiveness. When the heart chakra is in healthy alignment you will be connected to the world around and open to experiences and challenges of life. The blocked energies can manifest as physical ailments involving heart, lungs, chest, arms and hands. Issues such as poor circulation, high or low blood pressure and recurrent infections of lungs can occur. Ayurveda believes in bringing in health by treating the diseased by taking into account the changes happening in the entire body. Hence heart healthy herbs have been mentioned in various contexts in Samhitas. Some of the common drugs which are beneficial to the heart can be included in our daily lives depending on the needs of the individual. Arjuna (Terminalia Arjuna) Astringent qualities of Arjuna bark provides it great medicinal properties. The usefulness of its bark is well known among the tribal population and rural masses. You can often see the tree bark being taken out when you find it near you. Bark powder or decoction is useful to reduce the risk of heart diseases. It can strengthen and tone the heart muscles which helps in proper functioning of the heart. Studies suggest that the decoction of bark of arjuna helps in significant reduction of chest pain by lowering the level of cortisol in the body. It also increases exercise tolerance and improves HDL levels in the body. It can reduce blood pressure in people with stable angina. Arjuna kwath: Decoction prepared with stem bark can be taken 10-20 ml everyday Arjuna ksheerapak: 1 part of bark powder with 4 parts of milk and 16 parts of water is mixed together. This mixture is to be boiled till all the water is evaporated and milk remains. Ksheerpak can be consumed once it is cooled down to normal temperature. Rasona( Allium sativum ) Garlic is a hot pungent cleansing spice which is an excellent cardiac tonic, a good digestive and also beneficial for skin ailments. It is a rare herb which has all the six tastes sweet, salty, astringent, pungent and bitter except sour. The pungency of garlic is due to the sulphur compounds contained in Garlic. This also is the reason garlic is used in skin ailments. It is good for heart health as it maintains a balance between good cholesterol levels due to its lipid lowering capacity. It prevents the formation of plaques in blood vessels and helps maintain an optimum blood pressure due to its antioxidant property. Garlic possesses hot potency and digestive-carminative property (deepan-paachan) according to ayurveda. This avoids the build up of toxins(or the Ama) in the body. There are innumerable preparations and formulations of Garlic available in the market. One of the most popular classical ayurvedic preparations is Lasuna ksheerapak which can be made easily at home and consumed. Lasuna ksheerapak : 1 part of crushed garlic in 4 parts of milk and 16 parts of water and boiled and reduced till the water is evaporated and milk remains. 10-15 ml of this preparation can be taken twice daily. Pushkarmula( Inula racemosa ) Pushkarmula is part of the daisy family and used for its health benefits as well as ornamentally for its distinct yellow flowers and broad green leaves. It is a versatile herb that can be used in multiple medicinal benefits. It has a bitter pungent taste and a hot potency. These properties make it ideal for treating both heart diseases and respiratory ailments. It reduces the fat from the body hence it is found to be an ingredient in many herbal weight loss preparations. It is also known to be a good herb for reducing cholesterol and used in conditions of ischemic heart diseases. It works similar to beta-blocker and can help in lowering the blood pressure. It is one of the important herbs for treatment of COPD and asthma in Ayurveda. Vrikshamla ( Garcinia Indica ) Commonly known as kokum. The fruits of this tree are sweet, sour in taste and possess hot potency. They have great digestive properties and are well known as a coolant when used as juice or paanak. It is used well in various recipes in South Indian cuisine and popular for its pitta-nashak quality often used in summer drinks. Ayurvedic texts categorise it under Hridya or cardiac tonic. It is used in various preparations and formulations in ayurveda for the benefit of heart diseases. Dadima ( Punica granatum ) Pomegranate might be a well known heart healthy fruit of modern day, but ayurveda has classified it as Hridya ( heart healthy ) in its materia medica ages before.

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