Importance Of Pulse Diagnosis

Managing Hepatitis with Ayurveda

Managing Hepatitis with Ayurveda

Hepatitis is an inflammation of Liver which is a result of Viral Infection. This liver derangement can also be caused due to toxins like alcohol, medications and may be due to auto immune diseases. Hepatitis can be caused by drugs, viruses, bacteria, mushrooms, parasites like amoebas or giardiasis.

This is a chronic disorder which could be fatal. There are five types of Hepatitis i.e A, B, C, D and E. Hepatitis A and E are typically caused by ingestion of contaminated food or water. Hepatitis B, C and D usually occur as a result of direct contact with infected body fluids.

According to Ayurveda, the liver is called Yakrit. Pitta is the predominant energy in liver. Most liver disorders are aggravated conditions of Pitta. Aggravation of the Pitta causes the liver diseases such as hepatitis, cirrhosis and fatty liver. Kamala is the term mentioned in Ayurveda to describe the wide range of liver diseases including Hepatitis. Hepatitis of any types is a serious liver condition and should not be ignored.

There are certain herbs which are used to

·        Improve liver functions

·        Balance Bilirubin Levels

·        Reduce the elevated enzyme levels

·        Rejuvenate and heal the hepatic cells

·        Improve appetite and digestion

Management of Hepatitis in Ayurveda – 

Ayurvedic treatment of Hepatitis is based on the concept of “Rejuvenation. Ayurveda believes to help liver to restore and rejuvenate to the normal level.
Ayurveda treatments not only help to clear the jaundice but can also help to clear the virus from the body. Basically in case of Liver diseases, the treatment is aimed on the concept of Agni in Ayurveda. As per Ayurveda Agni is the main part of the digestion and all the digestive processes are controlled and regulated by Agni. The main seat for Agni is told as Liver, so the treatment is aimed totally on the rejuvenation of the liver cells so that all the actions of Liver will be optimized.

Commonly used herbs are:

Kutraki - Picrorhiza Kurroa

·                   Andrographis paniculata (Kalmegh)

·                   Boerhavia diffusa (Punarnava)

·                   Swertia Chirata(Chirayata)

Haritaki - Terminalia chebula

Haridra - Curcuma longa

Aloe Vera

 Sugar cane

Some herbal formulations are as follows:

·        Arogyavardhani Vati

·        Praval Panchamrit Ras

·        Amalki rasayana

·        Yakrut plihari Lauh

·        Punarnava Mandoor

Diet & Lifestyle recommendations for Hepatitis:

• Eat regular, balanced meals
• Eat whole-grain cereals and grains
• Eat lots of fruits and vegetables
• Drink enough fluids
• Avoid fatty food and junk food.
• Eat slowly and not in front of the TV.
• Maintain normal weight and do exercise regularly.
• Do not eat when you are angry, frustrated, or bored. 
• Avoid alcohol and smoking. Avoid recreational drug use.
• Practice Transcendental Meditation regularly

Dr Saurabh Sharma

Medical Superintendent

Maharishi Ayurveda Hospital

Ayurveda Treatment For Sinusitis

Ayurveda Treatment For Sinusitis

What is Sinusitis?

Sinuses are cavities within a bone or other tissue, especially the one in the bones of the face or skull connecting with the nasal cavities.

The sinus cavities include:

• Maxillary sinuses -           in the cheekbones.
• Frontal sinuses-                in the low center of the forehead.
• Ethmoid sinuses-             between the eyes, at the nasal bridge.
• Sphenoid sinuses-in         bones behind the nasal cavity.

Inflammation of the sinus cavity from bacteria or viruses is called as Sinusitis.

It has its own localized pain signals, depending upon the particular sinus affected. Each sinus has an opening into the nose for the free exchange of air and mucous, and a continuous mucous membrane lining joins each sinus with the nasal passages.

Therefore, anything that causes a swelling in the nose, either an infection or an allergic reaction can affect the sinuses.  Recurrent headache or congestion that changes with head position and disappear shortly after getting out of bed is the characteristic of sinus involvement.

Symptoms:

• ·         Fever
• ·         Tiredness
• ·         Headache
• ·         Nasal congestion and running nose sometimes
• ·         Swelling of the face
• ·         Post nasal drip
• ·         Cough
• ·         Sore throat

Sinusitis can be caused by infections, allergies, or medicines. It can also occur because of changes in temperature, air pressure and irritants in the air. Nasal polyps and other problems with the sinuses also increase the probability of getting sinusitis.

Sometimes, fungal infections can cause acute sinusitis. Although these organisms are a lot in the environment, they usually are harmless, indicating that the human body has a natural resistance to them. Fungi can cause serious illness in people whose immune systems are not functioning properly. Inhaling airborne allergens such as dust, mould and pollen, often set off allergic reactions that, in turn, contribute to sinusitis.

Management Of Sinusitis:

In Ayurveda, this condition can be correlated to Dushta Pratishyaya, where the main dosha affected is Kapha. It get aggravated and vitiates the Prana Vata (a sub type of Vata), which is mainly present in the respiratory tract. In this condition, the kapha is covered by Aama, the undigested sticky remains of food which is a resultant of improper Digestive fire. Hence a correct line of treatment will be first

• ·         Balancing the digestive fire,
• ·         Cleaning the Aama,
• ·         Pacifying the vitiated Kapha
• ·         Ensuring proper movement of the Prana Vata through the respiratory passages.

For bringing out the Aama and polluted kapha from the body, Panchakarma is the best tool. Especially, in this condition, Nasya has to be used. With this, all the blocked up mucous in the sinuses which are a form of the Kapha comes out which gives great relief to the patients. Once the passages are cleared, Vata can move easily in its path. This is indicated for chronic and recurrent cases of sinusitis. Acute cases can be effectively managed with internal medicines, steam inhalations and hot fomentation over the painful parts of the face and mild massage. This gives the desired effect of liquefaction and drainage of kapha. Internal medicines for improving the digestion and regulation of bowel are an important aspect of management.

People having chronic and recurrent sinusitis will be greatly benefitted by Yoga and Pranayama. The breathing practices involved in Pranayama helps in proper circulation of Prana Vata which effectively drains the nasal sinuses and prevents any blockages from developing.

Diet & Lifestyle:

Since Vata and kapha are the main causative factor for this condition, one should avoid food and activities which causes its disturbance.

• ·         One must avoid cold, oily and heavy foods.
• ·         Digestion and bowels should be regulated with healthy and light foods.
• ·         Head bath with cold water must be avoided.
• ·         Ice creams and cold beverages should be strictly avoided.
• ·         At the first sign of flu and common cold, one must take precautionary measures like steam inhalation, hot fomentation and warm soups etc.
• ·         Regular use of Nasya with Anu tail is beneficial.
• ·         Regular practice of yoga and Pranayama.
• ·         Day sleep should be avoided.
• ·         Avoid exposure to cold.

Nasya treatment:

Nasya is among the 5 panchakarma (Ayurvedic detoxification therapies) techniques. It is the application of herbal substances into the nose. ‘NASA HE SHIRSO DWARAM’- The nose is the gateway into the head, the sinuses, and deeper into the lungs. The most common Nasya treatment includes the application of Ghee or Oil, sometimes with additional powdered herbs.

Nasya enhances mental and sensory acuity, promotes mental clarity and emotional happiness, clears the nose and sinuses of obstruction, bestows a clear voice, promotes lightness of the body, soothes dryness in the nose, and eliminates the symptoms of disease.

With continuous usage it improves skin texture and complexion, stops or delays graying hair and alopecia, and strengthens the neck, shoulders and arms. Nasya is indicated for all chronic disorders of the head and neck, disorders of the brain and central nervous system, chronic upper respiratory disorders, chronic headaches and migraines, disorders of the eyes, ears, mouth, throat and the glandular structures of the head.

Nasya eliminates excess doshas (metabolic waste product) from the head and when applied with oil or ghee it nourishes as it cleanses.  

Dr Saurabh Speaks about Maharishi Amrit Kalash

Leech Therapy.Blood sucking Video

Celebrating Makar Sankaranti…Y?

Makar-sankranti is the day when the chariot of the Sun-god enters the Makar-rashi (one of the zodiacs). The process of entering a new sign of zodiac occurs every month, but since the Sun enters the makar-rashi in this month, thus a distinguishing meritorious period is generated.  During this span, the sattvaguna (quality of goodness) is specially enhanced and the elements increasing the resistance towards diseases are acquired.

Sun for the Hindus stands for Pratyaksha-Brahman - the manifest God, who symbolizes, the one, non-dual, self-effulgent, glorious divinity blessing one & all tirelessly. Sun is the one who transcends time and also the one who rotates the proverbial Wheel of Time. The famous Gayatri Mantra, which is chanted everyday by every faithful Hindu, is directed to Sun God to bless them with intelligence & wisdom. Sun not only represents God but also stands for an embodiment of knowledge & wisdom. Lord Krishna reveals in Gita that this manifested divinity was his first disciple, and we all know it to be indeed a worthy one too.  This whole month is considered a festival month. (The vow of bathing in the Ganges during this Magh month) On the other days, the merit of bathing in the Ganges is obtained only when we actually take a dip in it, but during the Magh month, the effect of Sun-rays is such that the waters of all the water-reservoirs on earth are considered as pure and beneficial as Gangajal.

Religious Significance:

·        From Uttarayana, starts the ‘day’ of Devatas, while dakshinayana is said to be the ‘night’ of devatas, so most of the auspicious things are done during this time. Uttarayana is also called as Devayana, and the next half is called Pitrayana.

·        There is another spiritually symbolic aspect of this story. The 60,000 cursed son of Maharaj Sagar represent our thoughts, which become dull & dead-like because of uncultured & blind ambition. Redemption of such people is only by the waters of Gangaji, brought down ‘to’ & later ‘from’ the Himalayas with great tapasya. This represents dedicated hard work to get the redeeming Brahma-Vidya, which alone enlightens, enthuses & enlivens the life of anyone.

·        Also, this is the day when the great grand sire of Mahabharata fame, Bhishma, declared his intent to leave his mortal coil on this day. He had the boon of Ichha-Mrityu from his father, so he kept lying on the bed of arrows till this day and then left his mortal coil on Makar Sankranti day. It is believed that the person, who dies during the period of Uttarayana, becomes free from transmigration. So this day was seen as a sure-shot Good Luck day to start your journey or endeavors to the higher realms beyond. 

Health Significance:

 

Food items made of Til and Jaggery are eaten and donated. According to Ayurveda, having Til on Makar Sankranti, prevent from arthritis disorders. If Til and jaggery is not taken today, then you may have cough in spring season and arthritis may affect you fast during rainy season. A special category which cannot afford these items, get them as donation. By this, they are also able to eat them.

Concentrating minds in God on the day of Makar Sankranti is the thing which gives this festival a spiritual base. With this resolution, a person moves forward in life with the thinking of God and gaining knowledge about God. In search of ultimate peace and happiness, a person has to wonder in many lifetimes. Makar sankranti is the most auspicious day for taking such a resolution.

Wishing all a healthy and prosperous New year & Uttaryana

Dr saurabh

DAILY REGIME DURING WINTERS

DAILY REGIME DURING WINTERS

Rise with the sun:

Ayurveda suggests waking up a bit later in the winter (around 6-7 a.m.) than what you usually do in other seasons. Upon rising, scrape your tongue to remove the dead bacteria and yeast that have accumulated overnight. Then brush your teeth with herbal toothpaste.

Drink warm water: Next, drink a cup of HOT WATER to stimulate a bowel movement. Drink this water sip by sip so that it helps in cleansing and detoxifying the toxins from your body.

Try invigorating yoga sequence and/or run in the morning: It’s common in winters that we don’t have sun all the days so a morning yoga sequence with lots of sun salutations helps to bring in more light energy into your day. A morning run outside is also beneficial, activating your heat energy and helping you catch more daylight. Conclude your morning regimen with Yoga, Pranayama, and Meditation. Surya Namaskara (sun salutation) and poses that open the chest, throat, and sinuses remove congestion in the respiratory organs. Try the fish, boat, bow, locust, lion, and camel poses, along with the shoulder stand and the headstand, if you can do it. Follow this with a systematic relaxation and a few rounds of bhastrika pranayama, the breath of fire. This breathing practice builds heat and eliminates mucus from the respiratory tract.

Moisturize using warming oils like sesame oil or coconut oil: Give yourself a quick “abhyangya” oil massage. Rub warmed sesame oil if you notice that you have cold hands and feet, all over your entire body (it’s heating and good for dry skin in the winter).  Take a tablespoon of oil in the palm of your hand and apply it over your body in short, gentle strokes, from the extremities to your center. Let the oil soak in for 5 to 10 minutes, then take a hot shower and exfoliate your skin.

Hot showers and/or baths: Hot baths are not always recommended for energy-saving reasons, or because it’s supposed to dry your skin. However, it’s essential to keeping your body temperature warm in cold winter months. A hot shower is very energizing after your morning workout. In the evenings, a hot bath infused with calming essential oils like lavender works wonders to restore you.

Breakfast & Drink tea with warming spices : After meditating, it’s important to eat a nutritious breakfast. If you don’t feed your digestive fire in the morning, it will dry up bodily tissues and provoke vata. Enjoy a bowl of oatmeal, barley, cornmeal, or poha mildly spiced with turmeric, ginger, cloves, cardamom, and black pepper. An hour after breakfast, boil 1/3 teaspoon of fresh or powdered ginger, 1/4 teaspoon of cinnamon, and a pinch of ground clove in a cup of hot water for 5 minutes. Drink this tea to increase your digestive fire, improve circulation, and reduce excess mucus from body.

Ø Ginger and tulsi tea is beneficial for your body to keep you warm in winter season and to stay away from common cold, flu, cough and fever.

Eat more nourishing meals: In summers we take lots of salads but in winters avoid taking salads, especially in evening. Winter calls for warming foods like soups, stews, curries, whole grains, roasted root vegetables, and more. Your body calls for a different kind of nourishment in the winter and seasonal eating is the best way to keep it healthy and happy.

Dress warmly: It looks like a simple thing but makes a big difference. Make sure you’re dressed for the weather!

Nasal Oil Administration: In winters, we usually suffer from cough and cold which comes becomes of allergens from the environment so best way to prevent yourself from these allergens is to put a drop of warm mustard oil in your nostrils daily before leaving out for work and also before going to sleep.

Food Intake  :Milk and milk products, wheat, Udad dal, meat and poultry, eggs, soups, herbal tea, soaked almonds, coconut, walnuts, pistachios all types of nuts and seeds which contain natural oil. Increased use of jaggery in diet helps to balance vata. Preparations like ladoos of fenugreek seeds, edible gum (Dinka), dry dates, cashews in ghee proves healthy during winter. Juicy fruits and vegetables like carrot, cucumber, lemon; etc which has high water content should be consumed. Daily Water intake should also be increased. Eat your main meal when the sun is strongest, i.e. midday.