AyurvedaNews

Water Intake and its effects on Health by Dr. Swati Ambulkar

2012-01-21T03:28:00.001-08:00

In our busy lives we give a little thought to the water we consume during the whole day. Ayurveda, the science of life, highlights the little things involved in our day to day life. Acharya Vagbhata has described in the text Ashtang Sangraha the indication of water to be drunk the whole day. In Ayurvedic texts there is an ample description of when, how and what amount of water should be drunk. In which diseases water is contraindicated, and which diseases it is advised to drink ample amount of water. Lets’ take a review on important details related to drinking water described in Ayurveda.

Ajirnebheshajamwaari jirnewaaribalapradam
Bhojanamchaamrutamwaari bhojanantevishapradam

Vai. Su.

In Ajirna i.e. indigestion water acts like medicine. Water taken after digestion of food gives strength to the body. Water taken with/during meals is like nectar and if the water is taken after meals it acts like poison.

After indigestion ayurvedists advise lukewarm water. Lukewarmwater has aamapachana properties. Lukewarm water removes obstruction of aama which then allows smooth flow of digestive juices in the ingested food. Warm water is good medicine of vitiated vata, it helps in vata-anulomana, which relieves gastric pain in indigestion.

When water is taken after food is digested i.e. after 2-3 hour of meals, it helps in body fluid balance. It helps in cleansing of digestive system and prevents accumulation of toxins. As the fluid balance is maintained it facilitates smooth functioning of body cells. This maintains balance of all types of agnis (Agni literally means fire, Here it is symbolic of the digestive power, Agni is of 13 types which can be compared with different types of metabolisms) balance of tridoshas resulting in uniform production of 7 dhatus (7 dhatus constitute the body namely, Rasa Rakta Mansa Meda Asthi Majja, and Shukra,i.e. Plasma, whole blood, Muscles, Fatty tissues, Bones, Bone marrow and seminal secretions respectively). These together provide a good constitution and strength to the body.

During meals balanced water intake plays key role in digestion of food. In between water intake helps saliva to mix with the food we chew. It helps in uniform mixing of digestive juices with the food. It creates space for the doshas during digestion during 3 Awasthapakas (Madhur-Amla-katu-Awasthapaka are three stages of digestion according to 3 doshas kapha-pitta and vata respectively). Regular practice of this maintains balance of dosha, dhatu and agni. When this balance is attained it improves immunity of body. The basal metabolic rate is well maintained. This prevents and protects body from infections and seasonal variations. Hence it leads to healthy and long life.

When a large amount of water is drunken immediately after meals it leads to dilution of digestive juices causing indigestion,acidity and other chronic complaints related to Digestive system. When this habbit becomes chronic it leads to agnimandya (decreased digestive power), Grahani (chronic diarrhea), arsha (piles), udar (ascites), skin disorders and chronic systematic disorders which is like a silent killer. Hence drinking water immediately after meals is compared with poison.

The above verse describes relation of water and food precisely. Lets’ see some more info on water intake and its effects according to type of water, health and weather perspectives.

1. Indication of warm water
a) Seasonal - In rainy season, physiologically according to Ayurveda Agni and Bala (strength) of body become weak. Hence, feel many times that our diet has become less. It is season of aggravation of vata, hence problems of flatulation, dyspepsia, constipation aggravation of joint pain is seen commonly in this season. The intake of warm water averts vata and gives relief in vata problems.
Ordinary cold water should be drunk in all other seasons.
b) Physiological- for kapha and vata prakriti in the morning, after ingestion of unctuous and heavy meals, adults aging above 60 yr.
c) Clinical- In Ajirna i.e. indigestion, aama (improperly digested food juice) conditions like fever, Atisar (diarrhea), aamavata, joint pains, obesity, piles(exception-bleeding piles) Kapha and vata diseases.

2. Indication of cold water
a) Seasonal-Grishma ritu i.e in summer season cold water should be drunk along with salts and sugar in form of Sherbats, aam ka pannha, jaljeera, etc. Plain water should be kept with whole herbs like Ushira, Khus, Chandana (Shweta),and Musta in earthen pot this water should be drunken in summer season. In sharad ritu (season between rainy season and winter i.e.September-October-November). Ordinary cold water should be drunk to avoid Pitta disorders mainly urinary and allergic disorders. Persons having pitta prakriti and above mentioned disorders should drink liberal amount of water in this season.
b) Physiological-Pitta prakriti (constitution) persons should drink cold water stored in new earthen pot .
c) Clinical-Abhyantar Daha (burning sensation), Bhrama (vertigo), Murccha (unconciousness), sunstrokes, heat strokes.

3. Normal Intake of water
* After having sound sleep, get up early in the morning and drink 1-2 glass of lukewarm water.
* If you feel thirsty,take care that water should not be drunken 1 hr before and 2 hrs after meals or eating anything.
* Do not drink water immediately before and after urge of micturition or defecation.
Also one should not drink cold water immediately after bathing also.
* Drink little sips of water while eating; avoid drinking water after juices and beverages e.g cold water before or after tea, coffee and milk. In dental problems, gargling with lukewarm water can be done.
* Don’t drink water immediately after heavy exercises, running etc. Avoid drinking chilled water after outings in sun especially in summer.
* Drink water throughout the day upto 2 to 2.5 litre at regular intervals.
Avoid drinking water when you are too much hungry.
* Amount of water to be drunk should be decided keeping in mind your body constitution, health status and season. If suffering from certain disease consult your Ayurvedic physician regarding amount and type of water to be drunk.
Avoid drinking water stored for a ling time in a vessel or container. Also water stored in plastic container over three months.
* Don’t drink ice-cold water in any season or any condition. This type of water decreases internal body temp abruptly which causes aggravation of vata and Mandagni.

4. Factors affecting water intake

Fast food increases too much thirst leading to over drinking of water. Over drinking of water causes Mandagni. It is root cause of maximum number of disorders like acidity, indigestion,dyspepsia,eating disorders like anorexia.

Normally, water intake in winter season decreases due to cold weather and in rainy season it decreases due to extra moisture in environment. If it decreases below normal it is advisable to drink lukewarm water.

There also references in Ayurvedic text which describe the properties of different types of water in different types of soils and resources. Also a person living in a particular region becomes habitual of the water in that region so traveling into completely different region may lead to constipation,indigestion and minor health problems due to intake of that water. At that time before taking any medicine wait for 2 or 3 days to habituate, if the condition aggravates then only try medical consultation.

At the end of this note I would say, try to listen to and understand your body natural demands,

Ayurveda is science of life, it heals human mind, body and soul, diseases are automatically healed!!!

Health, Happiness, and Spirituality in Numbers by Peeyush Bhargava M.D

2011-12-21T04:14:00.000-08:00

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I have been practicing Yoga for as long as I remember, and in the last decade I have focused on Ayurveda. In this brief article I have tried to summarize classical indian teachings on various aspects of life using a template of numbers from 0 to 9. These observations are based mostly on ancient wisdom and intuition rather than reasoning or evidence. In my free time I provide ayurvedic lifestyle and herbal consultations, and am interested in studying related phenomemon using imaging techniques.

0. Zero represents a cycle / circle. Everything in nature goes in cycles. Day and nights go in cycles; seasons come and go in cycles. Change is the only constant. All that comes into existence has to go into oblivion at some point in time. All that is born has to die. That’s an absolute truth. This also means that nothing is permament even a corpse decomposes indicating that there is change even after death. Psychologically this is very helpful as it tells us that the existing bad (or good) state of affairs will eventually change. So, be patient during tough times and prepare for the trough during good times.

1. GOD is one. He is the Supreme Being, who keeps everything in balance. He is the intelligence which keeps the circle going. We may call him by different names, we may practice different rituals to appease him, we may have different religions and mythologies, but he is ONE. He is the beauty of a flower and the pity of a beggar. He is the glow in the eyes of a child and he is the darkness seen by the blind. He is the hunger in the predator and he is the fear in the prey. My soul, without which this body is useless, is a part of him in me. When my circle completes, the soul will leave my body to become one with him…and that will be heavenly.

2. Number two represents the opposites seen everywhere in this physical world: hot/cold, good/bad, light/ dark, light/ heavy, male/female, yin/yang, day/ night etc. God is said to exist in the transition between the opposites – path of moderation. Ayurveda (Indian herbal medicine) is based on twenty qualities (10 pairs of opposites : dry-moist, light-heavy, hot-cold, rough-smooth, dense-flowing, hard-soft, fixed-mobile, dull-sharp, gross-subtle, and clear-cloudy) which are attributed to the five elements and the three energies. It recognizes each persons individual balance according to which the lifestyle changes and herbs are prescribed (presonalized preventative medicine).

3. Number three denotes the three doshas in the body: Vata (energy of movement), Pitta (energy of transformation), and Kapha (energy of mass/inertia), when in balance (one’s own constitutional balance) keep the body healthy and their imbalance causes disease. They also correspond physically to derivatives of embryologic foregut (kapha), midgut (pitta) and hindgut (vata). Everyone has their own balance of these three energies (innate constitution) which is established at the time of conception. As long as our lifestyle is conducive to our constitution we are in good health.

4. Number four represents fourfold purpose of live: Dharma (work), Arth (material), Kaam (physical), Moksha (spiritual). Dharma – to do well/ work honestly in ones’ profession. Arth – to earn money by legal means and to enjoy the comforts money can buy. Kaam – to enjoy the pleasures of the physical body. Moksha – work to free ourselves from the bondage of birth and death. Four also signifies the determinants of happiness: We are all seeking happiness in our lives. The one thing that is common to all is that we all want to be happy. But can we generalize the determinants of happiness? A common Indian saying goes like this: Health, Affluence, Dedicated spouse, and obedient child are (in that order) the most important determinants of happiness. So, the most important source of happiness is a healthy body. Most of us are born healthy but during life, health is not guaranteed. We have to make an effort towards health maintenance, based on current evidence, personal experience, and common wisdom. It seems logical that modern medicine should focus on prevention of disease rather than treatment. Because of this misplaced priority of modern medicine, we are stuck with chronic incurable diseases whose incidence is increasing.

5. Number five represents the five elements we are all made up of: ether (space), air, fire, water, and earth. This is likely the order in which they evolved and the order in which corresponding energy chakras are located in the body (see # 7) and on the tips of fingers (mudras). Every element/energy tries to go to its source, so everything solid falls on the ground (we call that gravity). Everything liquid flows to lower grounds, trying to go to the sea (its parent/ source). Fire rises up to try to reach for the sun (source of all fire). Gases mix immediately with the surrounding air. Ether is vacuum which is occupied by everything else and so it’s so hard to artificially create it on earth. Number 5 also represents the five senses which feed the brain (eyes, ears, skin, nose, and tongue).

6. Number six represents 6 pillars of health: Eating, Sleeping, Exercise, Cleanliness, Discipline, and Behavior. Alternative systems of medicine (innate to almost all ancient cultures) prescribe a lifestyle during health and disease for both prevention and cure, respectively. Living with nature, in balance with the rhythms/ cycles of nature is considered healthy. Get up early in the morning when the sunrises and to sleep early after sunset. Daytime is when the nature provides us with light and energy to do all that we want, and night time is when we sleep to restore our functions and balance: logic as simple as that. We are physiologically wired to be in tune with the nature. When we continue to disturb this balance, we fall sick.

7. Number seven represents the chakras or energy centers in the body: Mooladhaar (earth element), Swadhishthaan (water element), Manipur (fire element), Anahat (air element), Vishuddhi (ether element), Agya (bodily intelligence), Sahasra (universal intelligence). Kundalini yoga activates the dormant energy in the mooladhaar chakra and channelizes it up the other chakras. Seven also represents the dhatoo types (tissues) in the body: Rus (plasma), Rakta (blood), Mamas (muscle), Meda (fat), Asthi (bone), Majja (marrow), Shukra-Aartav (sperm-ova). They are formed in this order during the process of digestion and assimilation. When Vata / Pitta / or Kapha go out of balance they move outside the gastrointestinal tract and localize in one of the dhatoos creating illness. Ayurvedic treatment balances the three energies and Panchkarma brings the out of balance energy back to the gastrointestinal tract for its proper elimination.

8. Number eight represents the 8 fold path of Aashtang Yoga: Yam (nonviolence, truthfulness, no stealing, discipline/celibacy, material detatchment), Niyam (physical purification – defecation/ urination/ bath, self contentment, meditation, self study, religious studies), Aasan (physical postures), Pranayaam (breathing exercises), Pratyahaar (control over senses), Dhaarna (union of senses with the mind), Dhyaan (union of mind with the soul), and Samaadhi (union of soul with the supreme). Yoga (pronounced as YOG) is a spiritual path leading to the union of self with the supreme (nirvana/ freedom of the soul from the bondage of birth-death cycle). On that spiritual path the devoted aspirant does get blessed with good health and that why yoga (understood by some as just Aasans / postures) has become so popular in the western world. Physical postures are just a part of what is a personal, private and a spiritual practice.

9. Number Nine represents the nine celestial bodies according to Vedic astrology: Sun, Moon, Mercury, Venus, Mars, Jupiter, Saturn, Rahu, and Ketu. A navaratna (9 stone) pendant or ring has one stone for each celestial body and brings positive energy from that body: Sun – Ruby, Moon - pearl, Mercury - emerald, Venus - diamond, Mars – red coral, Jupiter – yellow sapphire, Saturn – blue sapphire, Rahu – hessonite, and Ketu – cat’s eye. Nine completes the circle of numbers and is also a magical number. Any number when added to nine does not lose its numerological identity [9 + 6 = 15 (1 + 5 = 6)]. Any number multiplied to nine yields only a nine [9 x 569 = 5121 (5 + 1 + 2 + 1 = 9)]. Mantras are spoken in the multiples of nine and a rosary has 27 (2+7=9) or 108 (1+0+8=9) beads.

By : Peeyush Bhargava M.D

www.nuclearmd.com

Skin care in winters by Dr. Sijay Dev

2011-01-12T03:24:00.000-08:00

Skin is the largest organ in the body and is the outer covering of the body that bears the external environment, and feels the sensation of the body. In summers the body gets subjected to heat as result get sunburns, and sweats as a result gets dehydrated. As a result the skin requires nourishment and rejuvenation in the winter. Though felt good in beginning, winter when it takes its true impact it again dries our skin and makes it scaly. Humidity also gets reduced too the least in some areas that it cracks our heels and chaps our lips. Most of us buys a heater and switch it on in room to keep ourselves warm but unfortunately that again worsens the condition. When the heater is switched on it takes in the remaining traces of moisture left in our skin and further dries up our skin. This skin which is cracked, chapped, and dry skin then becomes a portal of skin infections. So the skin has to be rejuvenated and care should be taken to nourish the skin to make it soft, smooth, moist and supple.

In Ayurved a year is having two solstices called as aadana kala (sun solstice) and visarga kala (moon solstice). The two solstices are based upon the Mother Nature's impact. In aadana kala the sun is very powerful and absorbs the nutrients and moisture.

While in visarga kala moon is powerful and it gives back the nutrients and moisture. Even the digestive fire is stronger in visarga kala and weaker in the aadana kala. In winter season the body has stronger digestive fire and our body has a counter mechanism to maintain warmth within the body and skin being the barrier to the environment which is colder outside. For the working of this mechanism our body requires more energy. More energy means more food that is why in winter one is hungrier than in summer. When one doesn't take sufficient food required by the body then it depletes the nutritive source in the body leading to vata dosha vitiation causing coldness, dryness and roughness. Henceforth the skin that has to be taken care of gets diseased in this season. But some places just taking the amount of food needed alone seems to be ineffective owing to the dryness and sub zero temperatures.

So to tackle such extremes this time we have come up with simple home remedial measures and few dietary and daily regimens that has to be followed. The skin appears lack of luster looses its brightness, there is redness of skin, and skin becomes dry and tight. Patient gets dry and even wrinkled skin at the early ages if not taken care.

Do's and Don'ts

Bath should be in lukewarm water, because hot showers in winter feels good but there's nothing like it that can remove natural oil and sebum from the skin. 2 drops of olive oil can be added to water to induce mild moisture to the water. Not more than 3 minutes should be taken to bath. The sebum is produced from the microscopic glands - sebaceous glands. Sebum is a secretion, an oily/waxy matter, to lubricate the skin and hair of mammals. In humans, they are found in greatest abundance on the face and scalp, though they are distributed throughout all skin sites except the palms and soles.

Scrub: The purpose of using scrubbers is to remove the dead skin and to remove the cosmetics that remain after cleaning with water. So a good scrubber should have exfoliated ingredients too. Beware of face packs though they claim to remove dead skin but it also rips off the live skin too. 1 tbsp sea salt in warm water and can keep legs dipped in can remove the dead skin.

Moisturizer: Recommended to apply 4 times a day. When applied immediately after bath it helps in trapping moisture more. Oil based moisturizers are good as the oil in general are warm. Almond oil, green tea oil and Shea butter are a few good moisturizers. Massage using rose water and glycerin twice a week as it can tone your skin and draws moisture. One should use petroleum jelly to moisturize the parts with hard sin areas like heel, soles and palm.

Water intake: In winter generally one does not get thirsty as he gets in summer season. So that also becomes one among the ingredients to dry skin. Normally an individual should take 8 - 10 glasses of water to keep his skin soft and supple.

Diet: Should include almonds that moisturizes body both external and internally. Should use nuts, legumes, eggs, soya, rice, carrots and fishes. It is said fish eaters have good skin as fish is a good source of Omega fatty acids.

Sleep should be 7-8 hrs would be mandatory for a healthy skin.

TIPS

1 tsp of lemon and avocado is mixed well and applied is good for dry skin.
Half tbsp of honey when mixed with 1 tbsp of rose water applied and washed on just before drying can tone ones skin.
1 egg yolk, half tsp of milk powder, and honey is good for dry skin and it has to be applied for 10 to 15 minutes and washed with cold water.
Cucumber and cream of milk when mixed and applied is good for dry skin in winters.

Herbal Tea

2010-12-06T04:12:00.001-08:00

Dear Readers,

Last month, it was about the Ayurvedic approach on osteoarthritis, interesting news, recipe and product of the month for a general awareness to our dear readers. To make it more interesting and useful this time we have an article on herbal tea. It can be very useful to our readers even in day to day life. Who can resist a cup of chai tea in this cold November ? In Ayurveda we do not say no to craving of chai tea or black tea until it is that grave for him/her because it makes one to lead a mechanical way of living. So we wanted our readers to be Ayurvedic even with their tea also. Along with this article we have added some of the various blends of tea presented by the Chakrapani Ayurveda Clinic And Research Centre. Brewed in total Ayurvedic manner seeming not to lose their efficacy with reasonable prices.

Well we have added also news of Ayurveda becoming global and some developments of this new venture in our interesting news section. In the upcoming events, the top priority is the 4rth World Ayurvedic Congress which is to be held in Bangalore, India from 9th to 13th December.

We heartily welcome your suggestion on our newsletter how to make it more useful and knowledgeable. Read on and enjoy.

Best Regards and Namaste.

Dr. Rajesh Kotecha 'Vaidya', M.D. (Ayurveda)

Director,

Chakrapani Ayurveda Clinic and Research Center

HERBAL TEA - by Dr. Sijay Dev

No one can deny a cup of tea or coffee with fresh air in the morning is indeed refreshing. In ayurveda anything taken in moderate quantity with due respect to ones, prakriti (physical constitution), the kala (season) and desa (land) he resides will always do good to the person. 2-3 cups of tea a day seems to be normal but do you realize in a long term that is for an year that makes it about 1000 cups of tea or coffee. Both tea and coffee has many health ill effects. So beware addicts.

Did you know that 1 cup of tea have caffeine, little amounts of oxalates and tannin? Caffeine in tea or coffee can cause sleep disorders, anxiety and even irritability. Oxylates have to be feared by tea addicts as it can cause kidney stones. Tannin excess in the body can increase ones susceptibility to oesophageal cancer. Even drinking tea or coffee in steaming temperature makes one susceptible for oesophageal cancer. Drinking tea with milk blocks tea's positive health effect in the cardiovascular disease are because of casein in the milk. Casein in the milk has the property of binding hence it binds with molecules in the tea. Plant based milk like Soy milk which has no casein has no such effect like that of tea with cow's milk.

Coffee is also not backward in health ill effects. It stains our teeth degrades our teeth's color, and damages ones gastrointestinal system. Excess intake of coffee increases blood pressure, increases low density cholesterol that is called as the bad cholesterol in general and increases the susceptibility to iron deficiency anemia. Studies show that, coffee addicts are prone to coronary artery disease, anxiety, sleep disorders, irritability and increased still births. Don't be terrified there are always alternatives. Nobody has to throw cup of tea you have taken with you right now to enjoy the read. Allow me to substitute the mere tea or coffee with you to herbal tea and see want it can do. Though it tastes like a tea and named herbal tea it is not prepared from tea leaves or coffee beans.

Herbal tea is an infusion prefabricated from plant leaves, flowers, seeds, fruit, and even sometimes roots. Herbal tea is known for its good taste and its medicinal effects. There are many different varieties of herbal tea the difference comes from brewing in to different blends. Most of the herbal teas contain a combination of herbs not a single herb.

The advantage of herbal tea is that it provides multivitamins and substitute medicines in small amounts; along with healthy diet it can do wonders. Herbal tea is a safe remedy to detoxify and improve one's blood purification. Detoxification is not new to us, right from the ancient times detoxification was done by fasting and colon cleansing by some of the herbs. Autonomous mechanism becomes astonishingly effective at elimination of waste products and toxins from the body and its function becomes enhanced when accompanied by herbal tea that augments body's internal sanitization. When herbal tea bag is brewed in steaming hot water it releases the volatile oils and polyphenols. One of interesting facts about polyphenol is that it limits the growth of bacteria in mouth and hence avoids bad breath.

Every coin has two sides that's like natures law so is to the herbal teas. That is, some specific herbs do possess toxic/allergic effects. Greatest causes of concern are:

COMFREY: An alkaloid that can cause liver damage.

LOBELIA: A kind of toxin and has similar effect of nicotine.

So, next time check for the ingredients of your herbal tea to see if it has herbs with comfrey and lobelia. Still studies have been conducted to find out the further ill effects of herbal tea.

Chakrapani Ayurveda has a wide varieties of herbal teas based on the body type, age and ailments. Like for example we have Medhohar tea which has prime functions of controlling overweight and maintaining the metabolic functions, we have Rasayana tea that has anti-ageing effect rejuvenates our body and we have Prathisyaya tea that can control counteract the excess histamine produced effect on the body due to the allergens. We also do have tea that is good for one's body constitution that is Vata tea, Pitta tea, Kapha tea and the Tridosha tea. We have tea that alleviates the stress. Have tea that works on to sleep enhancer, and makes the sleep sound without creating drowsiness during working hours the Nidrakar tea. Chakrapani has a special tea called Hridya tea that acts as a cardiac tonic and promotes effective cardiac functioning and more varieties. To know more about our other herbal teas and herbal products more information is posted on our website.

Dr.Sijay Jayan Dev have just joined Chakrapani Ayurveda Clinic & Research Centre. He is from Thrissur District of Kerala and finished his B.A.M.S for Amritha School Of Ayurveda, Kollam and has been working with us as Ayurveda Physician.

Chakrapani's Popular Herbal Tea

Medohar (Anti-Obesity) herbal tea : Helps in natural weight loss, overweight, weight gaining problems. Balances metabolic functions

Hridya tea (heart tonic) : Helps as preventive tonic for heart. Promotes effective cardiac functioning, works as a cardiac tonic.

Shiroshulhar (migraine help tea) : helps to cope with migraine / headaches. helps in reducing intensity and frequency of migraine attacks.

Sundarikalp (Menopause help) tea : Helps to cope with Pre and post menopausal syndrome. Contains natural phyto estrogen like substances and acts as a tonic to the female system.

Vajikaran (aphrodisiac) tea : Helps to promote overall sexual performance, to achieve better orgasm in: male and female and to correct premature ejaculation & erection problems.

Pachak herbal tea (Digestive help): Helps in improving digestion, bloating and acid reflux problems.

Rasayana (rejuvenation) tea : Helps in optimizing physiological functions, rejuvenating the body & mind and slow down the aging process.

Nidrakar herbal tea (Sleep enhance) : Helps to achieve sound sleep without creating drowsiness during working hours.

Stress alleviativation tea : Helps to cope with continuous exposure to stress.

Shwas herbal tea (Asthma relief) : Helps in strengthen lung functions and Asthma related breathing troubles.

Pratishyaya tea (cold relief) : Helps to cope with the common cold, flu syndrome, nose and throat allergies.

Vata Tea (Vata balancing tea) : Balancing Vata

Pitta tea (Pitta balancing tea) : Balancing Pitta

Kapha tea (Kapha balancing tea) : Balancing Kapha

Tridoshic tea : Balancing Tridosha

Sandhivata (Arthritis help) tea : Helps in pain, swelling and disability caused due to arthritis in various joints.

Upcoming Events

The fourth World Ayurveda Congress & Arogya Expo, 2010 will be held in the Palace grounds, Bangalore between December 9 and 13 this year. It is being organized by Department of Ayush, Ministry of Health & Family welfare, Government of India and Vijnana Bharati. Government of Karnataka is the co-organizer of this five-day event. Pre Congress workshops on Scientific Writing, Panchakarma, Kshar Karma, Afforestation of Medicinal Plants, Mental Health and all matters Ayurveda therein, would be the dialogue.

For the Ayurvedic industry there will be an intensive training session on Good Manufacturing Practices, a Buyer Seller Meeting organized by Pharmaceutical Export Promotion Council (Pharmexcil) and a conclave of the Centre for Research in Indian Systems of Medicine (CRISM) will also be organized as a part of World Ayurveda Congress. One can get more information on World Ayurveda Congress at http://ayurworld.org.

CONTACT US
Chakrapani Ayurveda Clinic & Research Center,
Chakrapani Global Center for Training & Research in Ayurveda
8, Diamond hill, Behind Birla Temple, Tulsi circle, Shanti path, Jaipur-302004, India.
Telefax : +91-141-2624003 Phone: +91-141-2620746
E-mail: info@chakrapaniayurveda.com
http://chakrapaniayurveda.com , http://LearnAyurveda.com , http://ayu.in

http://panchakarmaequipment.com

BRAHMI IS GOOD FOR YOUR BRAIN

2010-08-09T03:41:00.000-07:00

Dear Readers,

It is July again and children are back to school. With new determinations, new thoughts and new images of the future in their mind, so do the parents. Understanding this mental thoughts of parents, we have decided to introduce a memory booster tonic - BRAHMI in our newsletter this time. Use this serene knowledge to help and improve the concentration of your kid. In addition, Brahmi also can help in increasing their Buddhi (intellect) at all levels like Dhi (grasping), Dhriti (retention) as well as Smriti (recalling).

Some people consumes small amount of the fresh leaves of Brahmi on daily basis for its rejuvenating effect upon the mind. It is not possible for all of us to get this wonderful plant in fresh condition at all times. This is the reason why we have started preparing Brahmi capsules and Brahmi tablets from certified organic source with all quality assurance and responsibility. Kindly consider to try this very important supplement for your kids or for yourself. It works in a wonderful way.

We heartily welcome your suggestion on our newsletter how to make it more useful and knowledgeable.

Best Regards and Namaste.

Dr. Rajesh Kotecha 'Vaidya', M.D. (Ayurveda)
Director,
Chakrapani Ayurveda Clinic and Research Center

TESTIMONIAL

Dear Dr. Rajesh Kotecha,

I did read your contribution in Google news. I really appreciate you for promoting Ayurveda globally. Thank you very much for this. I wish you great success.

With Warm Regards,

Dr.G.S.Dehal
Divya Sanjeevani Ayurveda Hospital,
Moti Bazaar,Mandi-175001.
Himachal Pradesh.INDIA.
www.divyasanjeevani.webs.com

BRAHMI IS GOOD FOR YOUR BRAIN

The Brahmi (Bacopa monnieri) plant, which derives its name from Lord Brahma, has been in use for almost 3,000 years. Ayurveda practitioners claim that Brahmi has dozens of medicinal properties ranging from fighting bronchitis to asthma, and from boosting the intelligence to maintaining the cholesterol levels.The curative list of Brahmi is far more than this. This implies that Brahmi is indeed a divine herb with unparalleled medicinal properties.

Brahmi is perhaps the most important nervine herb used in Ayurvedic medicine. It revitalizes the brain cells, removes toxins and blockages within the nervous system, and at the same time has a nurturing effect upon the mind. It improves memory and aids in concentration. A small amount of the fresh leaves is eaten daily for its rejuvenating effect upon the mind. Brahmi helps awaken the crown chakra and balance the right and left hemispheres of the brain. It calms the heart and guards against heart attack.

Of late, Brahmi has been commercialized with several drug and cosmetic companies launching a number of products. Brahmi hair oil and Brahmi chyavanprash have become quite popular with women and students.

The entire Brahmi plant goes into Ayurveda and Unani formulations. The plant is dried in shade and then powdered for use in herbal formulations. Extracts are also obtained from the fresh plant. The leaves are bitter to taste.

Though recent research studies have shown that Brahmi is absolutely safe as a medicinal herb, doctors often caution against its over consumption. An overdose of Brahmi formulation or its fresh extract creates health complications. Fatigue and headache are the common symptoms of Brahmi over intake of Brahmi.

Otherwise, besides being a major brain tonic, Brahmi has been found to be good in treating health problems like epilepsy, heart diseases, hair loss, ulcers and diarrhea.

USES OF BRAHMI

It helps in improving mental performance and increasing concentration level as well as learning capacity.
It is good for patients suffering from insomnia.
It helps in relieving stress and keeps the patients relaxed.
Brahmi helps in decreasing anxiety and mental fatigue and promotes freshness in your mind.
It is also very effective in depression .
It helps in maintaining lowering blood pressure to the normal level.
It is very useful in maintaining normal body temperature thus relieving body from hyperthermia and fevers.
It is also very effective in treating menstrual disorders and painful menses.
Brahmi is also useful in cough and cold related problem.
It is used to attain long life while having energy just like a youth. Brahmi works as an antioxidant and retards aging thus keeps the person young and youthful.
Application of paste of its juice on joints in Amavata, effectively reduces the pain.
Brahmi juice is considered to be the best natural remedy for those suffering from bouts of epileptic fits, .
Brahmi oil promotes hair growth, and keep the scalp free of fungal infections like dandruff.
Application of paste of its juice on wounds helps in quick healing.
Herbal decoction prepared from Aswagandha and Brahmi gives quick relief from nagging headaches caused by migraine

IMPORTANT EVENT

Well known Ayurveda Guru Dr. Vasant Lad will be in Paris for a conference on 26th October and a seminar during 29th, 30th and 31st October. We request our reputed readers to contact Ms. Florence Dujarric at f.dujarric@gmail.com. We thank you very much for contacting Ms. Florence.

INTERESTING HEALTH NEWS

Ayurveda digitised to prevent bio-piracy - Indian Weekender news desk

New Delhi: The Department in collaboration with the Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR), has created the Traditional Knowledge Digital Library (TKDL) in order to prevent the bio-piracy of the Indian Traditional Medical Knowledge said Minister of State for Health & Family Welfare, Dinesh Trivedi said in written reply to a question raised in the Indian parliament on Friday.

Agreements have been signed with the European Patent Office (EPO) and United States Patent Organization (USPO) to provide them access to this library, in order to prevent grant of wrong patents.

Natreon Inc., a US Multinational had filed a patent application titled "Method of Treatment or Management of Stress" on July 27, 2006 through a composition comprising Withania somnifera plant extract; and a pharmaceutically, veterinary or nutritionally acceptable carrier(s) before the EPO.

The Traditional Knowledge Digital Library submitted evidences to EPO along with references of various texts of Ayurveda, Siddha & Unani.

These evidences established that Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) is frequently and effectively used through oral administration in the treatment of depression, insomnia, gastritis, gastric ulcer and convulsions which are defined as the causative factors of stress in the patent application. TKDL evidences also mention the use of Ashwagandha in the treatment of palpitation, excessive perspiration, diabetes mellitus and anemia which have been stated as conditions resulting from stress by the applicant.

After examination of the evidence presented before it, the EPO has observed that, in the light of this document, the subject-matter of claims cannot be considered as novel. Accordingly, the applicant Natreon Inc. withdrew its application on March 25, 2010.
Source: http://www.indianweekender.co.nz

CHAKRAPANI PRODUCT OF THE MONTH

Brahmi : A Natural Revitaliser for the nerves and the brain cells. It Improves both short term and long term memory. Extremely helpful in Anxiety and Depression.

Medicinal uses:

Whole plant is used as a nervine tonic, diuretic and blood purifier. It clears voice and improves digestion. It is cold sweet, astringent, diuretic, laxative and a tonic for heart and nerves. It is indicated in dermatosis, anemia, diabetes, cough, dropsy, fever, arthritis, anorexia, dyspepsia, emaciation and insanity. It helps eliminate excess fluids, decreases fatigue and depression, useful for connective tissue disorders, kidney stones, poor appetite and sleep disorders.

For Organic Brahmi products please click here

CONTACT US
Chakrapani Ayurveda Clinic & Research Center,
Chakrapani Global Center for Training & Research in Ayurveda
8, Diamond hill, Behind Birla Temple, Tulsi circle, Shanti path, Jaipur-302004, India.
Telefax : +91-141-2624003 Phone: +91-141-2620746
E-mail: info@chakrapaniayurveda.com
http://chakrapaniayurveda.com , http://LearnAyurveda.com , http://ayu.in
http://garrysun.com , http://PanchakarmaEquipment.com, http://ayushkar.com

Ayurveda out of balance: 93 percent of medicinal plants threatened with extinction

2010-05-21T03:34:00.000-07:00

Dear Readers,

Kindly have a look at our newly launched website http://ayushkar.com. This site is exclusively devoted to organic Ayurveda herbs and spices. So, you have an authentic source of organic Ayurveda supplies from Chakrapani Institute.

We all are aware that Ayurveda is largely a herbal science and its principles are based on Laws of Nature and never separates man from its environment. It delves into the medicinal properties of herbs and studies their effects on the human system. In fact Ayurveda uses more than four thousand herbs for its various methods for healing and prevention, out of which one thousand are very commonly used in regular prescriptions.

However due to various unfortunate reasons the ecosystem today is going out of balance and vegetation is being most affected. This is leading to extinction of various species of plants all over the globe. In fact lot of herbs that were earlier easily available for treatment in Ayurveda are becoming almost impossible to procure in the present times. In reference to this I came across an article which highlights the fact that 93 percent of medicinal plants are threatened with extinction. We have published this article in this edition of our Newsletter for all our readers, so that all of us are conscious of this loss and take measures to reverse this alarming situation in the best possible way.

We heartily welcome your suggestion on our newsletter how to make it more useful and knowledgeable.

Best Regards and Namaste.

Dr. Rajesh Kotecha 'Vaidya', M.D. (Ayurveda)

Director,

Chakrapani Ayurveda Clinic and Research Center

DR. KOTECHA'S ITINERARY - 2010

Dr. Rajesh Kotecha, M.D. (Ayurveda), CEO of Chakrapani Ayurveda, India is in Bogota, Colombia till 28th May.

He will be visiting Netherlands Antillis (Curacao island), France and different countries of Europe during the year 2010. His program for the lectures, workshops, personal consultations and Panchakarma at different places is as below. We invite our readers from above countries to attend any of his events to be organized during below said period. To get the details of his travel to the respective countries and to register for an appointment with him, kindly call / contact below.

15^th May 2010 to 28^th May 2010 Bogotá, Colombia

Contact person: Ms. Gisele Dupuis

E-mail : gdupuis@cable.net.co

28^th May 2010 to 3^rd June 2010 Curacao

Contact person: Ms. Soraida Bishop

E-mail : fundashongrupopakomunidat@yahoo.com

Website: http://curvedic.org

Tel: +5999 5181223

19^th June 2010 to 26^th June 2010 - France

Contact person: Mr. Fernard

E-mail : sietpa.sarl@gmail.com

Tel. 0556 959 523

Website: http://massages-ayurvedique.com

Ayurveda out of balance: 93 percent of medicinal plants threatened with extinction - By John Platt

Traditional Ayurvedic medicine could face an uncertain future as 93 percent of the wild plants used in the practice are threatened with extinction due to overexploitation, the Times of India reports.

The Botanical Survey of India recently prioritized 359 wild medicinal plant species and conducted an assessment throughout the country to determine their health. The news wasn't good. Of the 359 species, 335 were categorized as critically endangered, endangered, vulnerable or near-threatened.   The survey used criteria and categories established by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) for its Red List of Threatened Species.

According to India's Ministry of Environment and Forests, 95 percent of plants used in Ayurvedic medicine are collected from the wild, and about two-thirds of that harvest uses "destructive means" that can damage or kill the plants.

To help keep these plant species from going extinct, the Indian government in 2008 initiated a program (pdf) to relocate species from the wild, study how to domesticate them, and promote sustainable harvest protocols. This survey is the latest step in that program.

Aside from its historical and cultural significance, Ayurvedic medicines could bring profits to India's coffers. The Department of Ayurveda, Yoga & Naturopathy, Unani, Siddha and Homoeopathy (AYUSH) is currently exploring export opportunities for Ayurvedic medicine through Indian Medicines Pharmaceutical Corporation Limited, a company owned by the Indian government. Already, Ayurvedic treatments, vacations and consultants are popular among some alternative health consumers in the U.S.

Of course, other traditional Asian medicines have been attacked for their use of parts from endangered animals, such as tiger bones and rhino horns, but Ayurveda has so far avoided such criticisms.
Source: http://www.scientificamerican.com/blog/post.cfm?id=ayurveda-out-of-balance-93-percent-2010-04-05

Recipe from Grandma's Diary : Parantha

Ingredients:

1. Whole Wheat Flour 2 cups

2. Spinach (Finely Chopped) 100 gm

3. Salt to taste

4. Chilly Powder - ½ tea sp.

5. Turmeric Powder - ½ tea sp.

6. Ajwain - 2 pinch

7. Edible oil for frying

8. Water ( enough to form a hard dough)

9. Iron plate

10. Pastry board & rolling pin

11. Bowl to form dough

Method :

Put the flour in a small bowl and add all the above mentioned ingredients from no. 2 to no. 6. Add enough water to make a hard dough. Knead lightly with slightly oiled hands.
Divide the dough into golf ball like size or pieces ( or break off small individual amounts as you work) and roll the dough out as a chapati ( but thicker than chapati ).
Pre heat the iron pan before keeping the parantha on it, be careful in putting the parantha on the hot pan because it may break.
After a few seconds turn over the parantha with the help of tongs. Now grease this surface with oil or ghee and quickly turn over the parantha on to the iron plate.
Grease the other side also with oil or ghee, turn over the parantha again.
Keep it on the hot plate for a fraction of seconds until you observe brown spots over it and then place it on a flat dish or plate.

Points to remember

1. Serve it hot with either green coriander chutney or tomato chutney or any vegetable.

2. The spinach can be finely chopped or you can also steam the spinach for 2 minutes then drain excess water and blend it in the blender . This spinach puree can be mixed in to the flour along with all the other ingredients and then paranthas can be prepared in the same manner.

3. The Paranthas can be stacked one over the other on the serving plate or the warming pot.

Servings : 4 Persons

INTERESTING HEALTH NEWS

UNITED STATES: Study shows a whopping two-thirds of Americans are either overweight or obese, and obesity rates for children are at or above 30 percent in 30 states.

The percentage of adults classified as obese went up in 23 states, but Mississippi, with 32.5 percent, stayed atop the latest annual rankings by the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation and the Trust for America's Health. The same survey put the state's adult obesity rate at 31.7 percent in 2008. In addition, 44.4 percent of Mississippi children ages 10 to 17 are classified as overweight or obese, the study found.

Doctors have linked obesity to increased risks of a variety of conditions, including diabetes, hypertension, arthritis and heart disease. Wednesday's study found the current U.S. economic slump could worsen the problem by putting more nutritious food out of the reach of struggling families.

Dr. Ed Thompson, Mississippi's state health officer, said the state is taking steps to address what he called "a multifaceted problem," targeting schoolchildren in particular. "We can't tell our children to eat wise dietary choices and then provide them with little except for poor dietary choices in their school cafeterias," Thompson said.

CHAKRAPANI PRODUCT OF THE MONTH

Medohar Tea :

How to use: Take 1 teaspoon (5g) of tea and put into a cup of hot water for 2 to 3 minutes. Strain and take it. (This tea can be infused in a coffee maker also). One can add natural sweetener as per taste preference.

Side effects: Nil for therapeutic use

Safety: This is 100% natural product. Even, no preservative, color or additives are added to make sure that the product remains all natural. This is completely safe for continuous consumption.

Presentation form: Coarse Powdered Herbal Tea

For more details on these products please visit:http://chakrapaniayurveda.com/teaobesity.html

E-mail: info@chakrapaniayurveda.com

APPROACH OF AYURVEDA TO FOOD AND NUTRITION

2010-02-24T21:02:00.000-08:00

We announce launch of our new website http://ayushkar.com devoted to organic Ayurveda products. Kindly visit to get 100% certified organic and quality Ayurveda herbs.

Dear Readers,

In our last edition we had discussed about the Ayurvedic principles of diet. The food preferences according to season were discussed in that article. Taking a step further, in this edition too we are putting some more information on the approach of Ayurveda to Food and Nutrition.

The food we eat can help us live healthier by strengthening our mind and body, enhances our immune system and helps the body maintain correct weight. This in turn reduces the risk of diseases and also lowers our health care costs. By following the guidelines in this edition one can keep oneself healthy in a very simple way.

We are very happy to share a good news with you that we have just launched our new website http://ayushkar.com dedicated to certified organic Ayurveda herbs and products. Kindly visit and help us by your valuable opinions to improve further.

We heartily welcome your suggestion on our newsletter how to make it more useful and knowledgeable.

Best Regards and Namaste.

Dr. Rajesh Kotecha 'Vaidya', M.D. (Ayurveda)
Director,
Chakrapani Ayurveda Clinic and Research Center

DR. KOTECHA'S ITINERARY - 2010

Dr. Rajesh Kotecha, M.D. (Ayurveda), CEO of Chakrapani Ayurveda, India is in Italy till 25th February. He can be reached by calling Sophie Marland at 00395803856.

He will be visiting USA, Brazil, Colombia, Netherlands Antillis (Curacao island), France and different countries of Europe during the year 2010. His program for the lectures, workshops, personal consultations and Panchakarma at different places is as below. We invite our readers from above countries to attend any of his events to be organized during below said period. To get the details of his travel to the respective countries and to register for an appointment with him, kindly call / contact below.

30^thMarch 2010 to 18^th April 2010 USA

Contact person: Mr. Gary Grewal

E-mail : gary@garrysun.com

Website: http://garrysun.com

Toll Free: 1 888 98 HERBS

6^th May 2010 to 15^th May 2010 Rio, de Janeiro, Brazil

Contact - Mr. Jorge Farias

E-mail: fariasjh@hotmail.com Ph: (21) 2261.5352

15^th May 2010 to 28^th May 2010 Bogota, Colombia

Contact person: Ms. Gisele Dupuis

E-mail : gdupuis@cable.net.co

28^th May 2010 to 3^rd June 2010 Curacao

Contact person: Ms. Soraida Bishop

E-mail : fundashongrupopakomunidat@yahoo.com

Website: http://curvedic.org

Tel: +5999 5181223.

19^th June 2010 to 25^th June 2010 - France

Contact person: Mr. Fernard

E-mail : sietpa.sarl@gmail.com

Tel. 0556 959 523

Website: http://massages-ayurvedique.com

Important inputs on Ayurveda approach to Food and Nutrition - Edited by Dr. Agneesh Roy

Diet high in whole grains and other fiber-rich foods that provide lasting energy throughout the day. Fiber helps maintain a toned digestive tract by providing bulk which helps toxins and excesses to be evacuated easily. When the intestines are regularly cleaned, the body does not become overloaded with undigested material that would otherwise seek elimination through the skin and hence a burden to the body.

Low in fat diet keeps the blood clean, prevents clogging and helps the circulatory system working efficiently which in turn nourishes the whole human system, and naturally keeps the weight controlled. On the contrary a diet rich in saturated fats leads to clogging up of veins, arteries, and organs which are obviously injurious to health.

Diet low in refined sugars. Refined carbohydrates are empty calories which only serve to pack on the weight. They give the body a quick boost of energy that is always followed by a physical (and emotional) lowness. This stresses the pancreas and adrenals hence devitalizing the body. Refined carbohydrates deplete the body of minerals which are essential for all its vital functions. It is the combination of refined carbohydrates and excess protein which forces toxins to the skin surface in the form of pimples.

Diet high in minerals that keep the body looking alive and charged with energy. Minerals greatly contribute to that intangible radiance, freshness, and magnetic look of a person, reflecting good health.

Intake of food low in animal proteins & rich in vegetable proteins. Low protein diets weaken the body and cause a hollow, sunken look to the face. Diets high in animal proteins raise the toxicity by increasing the waste products in the body due to their slow transit time (It takes meat about three days to be completely digested and expelled from the system). This slows digestion and depletes the body of minerals. Vegetable proteins, on the other hand, fully nourish the body, being quickly and efficiently metabolized. At the same time, not everyone would want to take only vegetarian food. Thus, Ayurveda has the means of making meats more digestible with spices such as garlic, ginger, cumin, cayenne, and black pepper.

Low intake of salt. Diets high in salt tend to make the mind and body stiff and tight. Having a constricting influence on the body, it tends to slow circulation and create retention of fluid in the body. This gives a puffy look and areas under the eyes appear to be sunken. In Ayurveda, a very low salt diet is suggested in some skin problems.

Absence of strong stimulants or depressives such as coffee, sodas, or alcohol. These stress the body's organs and make skin loose and flabby, furrows the brow and swelling under the eyes in the long run.

High in fresh organic foods whenever possible. These are nutritionally the richest, coming from healthy soil and thus carry the strongest, vital energy. This contributes to a radiant, rich glow in our face and skin in general.

Recipe from Grandma's Diary : Dates Walnut cake

Ingredients :

1. Seedless dates 500gm,

2.Walnut pieces 300gm,

3. Milk enough to dip the dates 250 ml

Method :

Make pieces of dates and keep them in a vessel with thick base.

Add milk to the dates and keep it on low flame.When the dates get softer mash them with a masher and add crushed walnut coarse powder to it.

Mix it well and then invert it into a greased plate. Level it by tapping .

Cut it into pieces on drying.

Note: The preparation can be stored at room temperature for a week and in refrigerator for 15 days

INTERESTING HEALTH NEWS

Yoga Cuts Inflammation

INDIA, January 12, 2010: Incorporating yoga sessions in your daily routine could lower a number of compounds in the blood and reduce the level of inflammation that normally rises because of both normal aging and stress, revealed a new study. Conducted by Ohio State University researchers, the study showed that women who routinely practiced yoga had lower amounts of the cytokine interleukin-6 (IL-6) in their blood.

IL-6 is an important part of the body's inflammatory response and has been implicated in heart disease, stroke, type-2 diabetes, arthritis and a host of other age-related debilitating diseases.

For the study, researchers assembled a group of 50 women, age 41 on average. Ron Glaser, a co-author and a professor of molecular virology, immunology and medical genetics, said that the study has some fairly clear implications for health. "We know that inflammation plays a major role in many diseases. Yoga appears to be a simple and enjoyable way to add an intervention that might reduce risks for developing heart disease, diabetes and other age-related diseases. This is an easy thing people can do to help reduce their risks of illness," he said.

Source: timesofindia.indiatimes.com

CHAKRAPANI PRODUCT OF THE MONTH

Rasayanaprash : The indigenous formulation Rasayana Prash is an especially developed herbal food recipe for longevity and to enhance general immunity. Moreover, it possesses anti-stress & anti-fatigue properties. In other words, it provides vigor, vitality and strength if taken regularly for a long duration. The formulation is the outcome of years of therapeutic applications in India.

For more details on these products please visit:http://www.chakrapaniayurveda.com/

CONTACT US
Chakrapani Ayurveda Clinic & Research Center,
Chakrapani Global Center for Training & Research in Ayurveda
8, Diamond hill, Behind Birla Temple, Tulsi circle, Shanti path, Jaipur-302004, India.
Telefax : +91-141-2624003 Phone: +91-141-2620746
E-mail: info@chakrapaniayurveda.com
http://chakrapaniayurveda.com , http://LearnAyurveda.com , http://ayu.in
http://garrysun.com , http://PanchakarmaEquipment.com, http://ayushkar.com

Get together with 'Vaidya' Rajesh Kotecha in Rome Italy

2010-02-06T03:40:00.001-08:00

Get together with a 'Vaidya' - (Ayurveda Physician) in Rome

Italy

(18th to 25th Feb 2010) as a Part of the 'Continuing Ayurveda Encouragement Program' (CAEP) an enterprise of Chakrapani Ayurveda Clinic and Research Centre, Jaipur, India.

For the past 10 years Dr. Rajesh Kotecha, M.D. (Ayurveda), CEO of Chakrapani Ayurveda India, has been frequently visiting several countries to share and promote the Science of Ayurveda.

To bring the awareness and share the knowledge of the principles of Ayurveda and its diverse modes of prevention and healing he has been invited again this year. He will be touring Italy, USA, Brazil, Colombia, Curacao and

France

over the next few months. The details of which can be availed from our website www.chakrapaniayurveda.com.

With the demand of this ageless Medical science growing worldwide, his lectures and discussions are always a great fortune for the whole community he interacts with.

In Italy he will be visiting Rome from 18^th to 25^th of Feb 2010. During his stay he will give private consultations, conduct seminars and workshops on Ayurveda. He will be speaking not only about the philosophy and doctrines of Ayurveda, but also modes of prevention, treatments, rejuvenation programs, Immuno- Promotive remedies and Stress Management through Ayurveda. These interactions with him are always of great help not only for the individual but also for the whole society.

All those who are interested to avail this oppurtinity in Rome Italy, kindly get in touch with Ms. Sophie Marland. The details for communicating with her are given below.

Rome, Italy18^th Feb-2010 to 25^th Feb-2010

Contact person: Ms. Sophie Marland

E-mail : sophiemarland@hotmail.com

Phone No: 00395803856

Chakrapani Ayurveda Clinic and Research Center (CACRC) offering Ayurveda Consultations, Treatments and Ayurveda Training in its 8000 square feet Center in the heart of Jaipur for the past 12 yrs is the largest wellness centre of Ayurveda run by private entrepreneur in Rajasthan, India. All the facilities of Natural Care through Ayurveda Panchakarma therapy, Yoga and other treatments have been appreciated by common public and medical professionals visiting the center from throughout the world since 1998.

Listed in the Lonely Planet as a reliable Ayurveda Center, (CACRC) is promoting Ayurveda also through its 48 successfully running websites ranging from their unique Online Training Programs, knowledge about various medicines and herbs used in Ayurveda, Ayurveda treatments of some difficult ailments, Online selling of various Ayurveda products such as herbs, tablets, capsules, Beauty Products, Oils, Health Tonics and Panchakarma equipments etc,

Visit us on some of our websites:

www.chakrapaniayurveda.com

www.ayu.in

www.learnayurveda.com

www.panchkarmaworld.com

www.panchkarmaequipment.com

With best regards.

The AyurvedaNews Team

FOOD FOR LATE WINTER AND SPRING SEASON

2010-02-02T03:35:00.001-08:00

Dear Readers,

Time flies......,it was 2009 a month before and then came the NEW YEAR-2010 with lots of new developments, resolutions, determinations and ideas to stay healthy. The New Year has added another feather into the cap of Chakrapani as we make the announcement of launching 'Chakrapani Ayurveda Village', a 3 star Ayurveda Resort in a nice countryside ambience close to Jaipur.

In every edition we try to give you practical lifestyle suggestions, news items, event listings, product offers and more with an aim to give you the practical knowledge and how to stay healthy with the timeless wisdom of Ayurveda.

Our article for this edition is based on the Ayurvedic principles of diet. Food has been considered as sacred thing in Ayurveda. According to Ayurveda food is considered as an offering to Jatharagni-the Divine Fire in the stomach, by whose grace we digest the food. One can attain good health by replenishing and nourishing the dhatus through proper diet and regimen. This implies the importance of Diet in Ayurveda. Ayurveda, teaches us to eat primarily sattvic food. Sattvic food is defined as food that is vegetarian, fresh, cooked in the appropriate manner, and not overly spiced or oily.

Ayurveda sees medicine and diet as complementary rather than separate. No one can expect to retain vitality or recover from disease without the appropriate knowledge of dietetics.

So dear Readers, here we are to share the values of Ayurvedic dietetics with all of you and in order to make a move towards healthier you ,us and the whole world.

We heartily welcome your suggestion on our newsletter how to make it more useful and knowledgeable.

Dr. Rajesh Kotecha 'Vaidya', M.D. (Ayurveda)
Director,
Chakrapani Ayurveda Clinic and Research Center

CHAKRAPANI AYURVEDA VILLAGE -- (CAV)

Indian culture & civilization from ancient times has been based on the wisdom of the Vedas. AYURVEDA, the science of life, stems from this Vedic civilization of India and stands as the most ancient and comprehensive health system in the world.

For a deeper experience to this unique and divine science of healing we are creating 'Chakrapani Ayurveda Village', a 3 Star Ayurveda Resort in a nice countryside ambience close to Jaipur. We wish it to be functional by the end of this year and your blessings for this new venture will be of great significance.

This Ayurveda Village will be situated in the heart of rural India just 22 kilometers from Jaipur city (12 kms from Airport) in Rajasthan, India. Through eco-friendly construction and by further enhancing the flora & fauna of the region we wish to put up a world class Ayurveda wellness place in its purest form. However in this Satvic Resort non-vegetarian food, alcohol & smoking will not be allowed within the premises.

Authentic Ayurveda rejuvenation treatments and the pure environment in and around 'CAV' will refresh you and make your stay pleasurable and a memorable one. We welcome Dr. Agneesh Roy to Chakrapani family who had just arrived to take care of this project.

To materialize this Project in a splendid manner we humbly request the invaluable support and encouragement from all our clients, well-wishers and the growing Chakrapani family.

Dr. Kotecha's Itinerary 2010

Dr. Rajesh Kotecha, M.D. (Ayurveda), CEO of Chakrapani Ayurveda, India will be visiting Italy, USA, Brazil, Colombia, Netherlands Antillis (Curacao island), France and different countries of Europe during the year 2010. His tentative program for the lectures, workshops, personal consultations and Panchakarma at different places is as below. We invite our readers from above countries to attend any of his events to be organized during below said period. To get the details of his travel and to register for an appointment with him, kindly call / contact at below country specific contacts.

18^th Feb-2010 to 25^th Feb-2010 Rome, Italy

Contact person: Ms. Sophie Marland

E-mail : sophiemarland@hotmail.com

Phone No: 00395803856

30^th-2010 March to 18^th April-2010 USA

Contact person: Mr. Gary

E-mail : gary@garrysun.com

Website: http://garrysun.com

Toll Free: 1 888 98 HERBS

6^th May-2010 to 15^th May-2010 Rio, de Janeiro, Brazil

Contact - Mr. Jorge Farias

E-mail: fariasjh@hotmail.com Ph: 212-509-5713

15^th May-2010 to 28^th May-2010 Bogota, Colombia

Contact person: Ms. Gisele Dupuis

E-mail : gdupuis@cable.net.co

28^th May-2010 to 3^rd June-2010 Curacao

Contact person: Ms. Soraida Bishop

E-mail : fundashongrupopakomunidat@yahoo.com

Website: http://curvedic.org

Tel: +5999 5181223.

19^th June-2010 to 25^th June-2010 - France

Contact person: Mr. Fernard

E-mail : sietpa.sarl@gmail.com

Tel. 0556 959 523

Website: http://massages-ayurvedique.com

AYURVEDA FOOD: LATE WINTER AND SPRING SEASON

SHISHIR RITU (LATE WINTER)

The cold is still more severe in Shishir (Winter) than in Hemant (Autumn) and accumulation of Kapha starts during this period.

Though it is the starting season of Adankal, still the body-strength is good and other doshas are in balanced condition (samyavastha). The agni is still optimum, but one should take cognizance of severe cold in the atmosphere.

Most dietary advices remain the same as that for Hemant Ritu, the only change in the selection should be about the potency of food items. Instead of cold potency, the food products of hot potency (heat generating) should be selected, to counteract the excessive cold. These include stuffed brinjals (bharta), rice with moong dal and chapatti's stuffed with jiggery and sesame seeds. The bhakris made of bajra with large amounts of butter or ghee are ideal at this time. Jaggery and sesame (Tila) are unctuous (snigdha) and hot (ushna) in attributes. The non-vegetarians should enjoy and relish with mutton, eggs and meat. In general, diet should be heavy (guru), unctuous and hot in attributes.

Hot water bath is preferred and drinking water should also be hot. One should protect with warm clothing, room-heaters and should practice heavy exercises.

VASANTA RITU (SPRING)

Uttarayana already sets in with Shishir, and in Vasanta, the day becomes longer than night. Obviously, gradually the strong sun-shine begins to liquefy the accumulated kapha which then starts its work of vitiating the digestive power of its host. The atmosphere becomes full of fragrance, with the blossoms of various flowers.

Heavy foods like eggs, chicken, sweetmeats and milk, bananas & dry fruits now should be avoided. To avoid kapha, instead of rice, wheat should be consumed more. The fresh food grains aggravate kapha and cause blockades in the channels (srotasas), hence bitter, pungent and astringent tastes should be added, to curb the effect of kapha. Incorporation of ginger, black pepper, cinnamon, garlic, asafoetida, chilly and mustard in daily diet will be beneficial to stoke agni and alleviate kapha. Oils should be preferred over ghee. Buttermilk and milk will be better than curds. Intake of honey is advisable. Therapeutic fasting is recommended in this season. Boiled and then cooled water should be used for drinking. Optimum amount of mild wines (Drakshasava) are beneficial. In general, moderate amount of diet, avoiding sleep during the day and practicing moderate exercise is recommended.

Asthma, influenza, sinusitis, cough and cold like kapha disorders are commonly sought during this season. At the onset of Vasant ritu, prophylactic emesis (vaman), one of the procedures of panchakarma. is advocated to get rid of kapha. Nasal administration Nasya of Vacha taila is recommended to keep the sinuses clean.

CHAKRAPANI PRODUCT OF THE MONTH

Amalaki : Detoxifies the body and regulates digestion. Helps to increase lean body mass & reduce fats. A natural source of Vitamin C.

Arogya Vardhini Tablet :The word Arogya means good health and Vardhini means improver. It means that the formulation which improves good health is known as Arogyavardhini.

For more details on this product please visit: http://www.chakrapaniayurveda.com/

CONTACT US

Chakrapani Ayurveda Clinic & Research Center,
Chakrapani Global Center for Training & Research in Ayurveda
8, Diamond hill, Behind Birla Temple, Tulsi circle, Shanti path, Jaipur-302004, India.
Telefax : +91-141-2624003 Phone: +91-141-2620746
E-mail: info@chakrapaniayurveda.com
http://chakrapaniayurveda.com , http://LearnAyurveda.com , http://ayu.in
http://garrysun.com , http://PanchakarmaEquipment.com

AYURVEDIC VIEW ON WINTER CARE

2010-01-13T03:31:00.001-08:00

Dear Readers,

Kindly accept Happy New Year from team Chakrapani. We hope that the year just left us must be very good for all of you.

I want to share few things of Chakrapani Ayurveda, your favorite Ayurveda destination. Last year was full of joy, achievements and happiness here. In the year 2009, we were able to get revalidation of our ISO 9001 certification. Now, we have upgraded our quality management system and now we are certified with ISO 9001:2008 quality standards. We have few more landmarks. We have received ISO 22000, which is also known as HACCP certification for following highest level of food safety standards at our manufacturing facility. Furthermore, we have got GMP (Good Manufacturing Practices) certification from Department of Ayurveda, Government of Rajasthan. OneCert Asia had authorized us to handle organically certified Ayurveda herbs and products in the later part of last year.

All these achievements could not happen without the constant support and encouragement of our clients, visitors of our websites and readers of our newsletter. I should not forget to acknowledge the contribution of my team. We are 35 people on board now. I thank you all of them on this occasion.

The year 2010 is coming with even greater hope. We are commencing construction of our Vedic Ayurveda resort just 22 kilometers from Jaipur city in the nice ambience of countryside. It should be functional by the end of this year. So, your blessing for this new venture is urgently required. Do not forget to email us.

Best regards and many thanks again for your constant support.

Rajesh Kotecha Vaidya, M.D. (Ayurveda)

Director, Chakrapani Ayurveda

TESTIMONIAL

Dear Sir,

You had given me some herbs (Laghusushekar, Avipattikar, Pravalpisthi and Shatpatradi) for acidity + reflux. They have a very positive result or I can say 100% relief. So thanks again. It is my responsibility to tell you about my results so that it can help the other patient.

Thank and regards,

Ajay kumar, Hyderabad, India

(Thanks Ajay ji for your wonderful compliments)

AYURVEDIC VIEW ON WINTER CARE

Ayurveda believes that Nature influences our Body Mind and Soul deeply.

This is the reason Ayurveda has described in detail the Daily as well as Seasonal regimens because the way we live our day and night life in each season influences are life to a great extent.

These Daily regimens are also deeply influenced by the change in weather (seasons). For ex. A person getting up at 4:00 am in the morning during summer would get up in winters around 5:00 am.

The reason of specification of these regimens is to maintain the health of a healthy individual so as to accomplish the basic aim of Ayurveda.

A human body, according to Ayurveda comprises of three Biological humors Vata, Pitta and Kapha. These hold our body in normal condition and in vitiated condition cause diseases. In order to maintain them in the healthy state and maintain equilibrium between them, one must follow the daily and seasonal regimen. The present edition of our Newsletter brings to you the valued knowledge of Ayurveda regarding the diet and lifestyle for the winter season (Hemant Ritu)

The seasonal regimen or Ritucharya is based on the weather outside the window and not on the months of the calendar. The routine suggested for winter season cannot be suggested without a demand of covering oneself with a sweater.

However this year the winter season has started and here we are with the suggestions for food and lifestyle to be followed during the winter season.

The Sun moves towards South for Six Months during winter season. The food therefore in this season should be rich in sweet sour and salty taste. The digestive fire is high so people can digest things, which would otherwise be difficult to digest.

Milk flavored with Kesar, and milk products are good to eat.
Ghajak Sweet cakes made of Sesame seeds (til) and Jaggery is very common.
Sweet dishes made of nuts are very common desert.
Always drink warm water. Eat fruits and vegetables rich in water content. Zucchini, lauki squash, asparagus, apples, grapes, oranges and carrots are good.
Halwa (sweet preparation) made of Carrots is good.
Roasted peanuts and other nuts are a good stuff to snack.
Avoid bitter, pungent and astringent tastes.
Start taking the Ayurvedic preparation Chyawanprash. It helps in increasing the immunity power and also very good for the upper respiratory tract infections.
Amalaki Rasayana made of Amla, the richest source of vitamin C and a natural anti oxidant is good to be taken as rejuvenating medicine.
When you deeply need to snack something heavy have warm Pakoras (small vegetable balls smeared in a batter of chickpea flour and deep fried in oil) with the Chai (Indian tea).
Sip warm herbal teas made of dry ginger, black pepper and clove.

Lifestyle :

Since winter season is driven by Vata it may make the skin dry, the feet chap and the lips crack so here are some ways to keep yourself healthy and good looking in the winter season as well.
Keep yourself warm. Always cover yourself with woolen clothes. Wear scarf and
Gloves when you move out of the house. Keep the home temperature as per your comfort and use a humidifier or place a bowl of water on the radiators to add moisture to the air.
Wear a natural lip balm to protect your lips. Ghee (clarified butter) is a good choice.
Enjoy the sun for at least some time in the day.
Massage yourself with warm mustard oil or any medicated oil like the Dashmolabala oil.
Do exercise daily to burn out the excess calories.
Steam treatments are good but avoid Saunas.
Do Udvartana (scrub) at least once a week with fine powder made of barley flour, Turmeric and china clay.

Recipe from Grandma's diary

Sesame Ladoo

Ingredients: Sesame seeds(1 cup), Jaggary (1 cup)

Method : Keep the pan on low flame fire. Melt the jaggary in pan. When jaggary change his colour or it become brownish. It should looks puffy then add the sesame seeds and immediately remove pan from the heat. After few minutes make small ladoo of the sesame seeds.

Health benefits of the ladoo:

Jaggary has reach source of carbohydrate and iron. Sesame seeds gives strength to body and prevent moisture to body and keep body warm.

CHAKRAPANI PRODUCT OF THE MONTH

RASAYANA PRASH : The rejuvenator group of herbs traditionally termed as ' Rasayana ' have micronutrients which improve health, immunity, vigor, vitality and give longevity as well as protection against stress. All these actions of certain Rasayana herbs have now been scientifically proved through experimental as well as clinical studies.

CHYAVANPRASH : Chyavanprash is a comprehensive herbal tonic with multiple health benefits, prepared according to an ancient Ayurvedic formula. Used by people all over the world today, it is a proven energizer, immunity booster and pre-emptive tonic

For more details on this product please visit : http://www.chakrapaniayurveda.com

THE AYURVEDIC FOOD PRINCIPLES

2009-12-01T03:47:00.000-08:00

FROM THE DESK OF DR.KOTECHA

Dear Readers,

This edition of our Newsletter describes the "Importance of Ahara (food) in our life" written by Dr. Mita Kotecha.

Ayurveda advocates to take care for the tripods (Traya Upasthambha): That is Aahara (food & nutrition), Nidra (sleep) and Brhimhacharya (regulated sex behavior).

Depending on the three Gunas, the food is classified into three types of food - Satwic food, Rajasic food and Tamsik food.

In Ayurveda, Food is considered as a sacred thing and so we try our best to make eating a form of meditation (to eat in peacefulness and with awareness) and Sadhana (taking ordinary activity and approaching it with spiritual awareness).

Regarding diet Ayurveda says: if a person wishes to be healthy and fit with Oja and glamor than he should use qualitative food but less in quantity. "HITAM ASHNIYAT, MITAM ASHNIYAT.

We heartily welcome your suggestion on our newsletter how to make it more useful and knowledgeable.

Dr. Rajesh Kotecha 'Vaidya', M.D. (Ayurveda)
Director,
Chakrapani Ayurveda Clinic and Research Center

TESTIMONIAL

Dear Dr. Kotecha,

Greetings from Omaha! I just want to tell you how well I am doing and offer my sincere thanks and appreciation. I first met you in May of 2009 for a consultation. I began the prescriptions you recommended and took to heart the lifestyle and diet changes you advised. They were subtle and simple things you recommended, but they took a bit of time to really effectively adopt. On your next visit on October 1^st 2009, I was fortunate enough to receive a Panchakarma treatment, thank you. At this meeting you made a slight adjustment to my prescription and I want to tell you how wonderful I am feeling now one month later. I've been faithful to your advice and feel as though I am experiencing "perfect health." My friends are asking me what I am eating and doing because they have noticed an improvement and are very curious. Better yet, H1N1 went through my household and affected both my daughters and husband at the same time - I took care of them and did NOT get it. I believe that this is because I am living with reduced Ama and improved Ojas and that as a result my immune system is operating at it's optimum and I have never felt better. My weight is balanced and ideal for my age and I am sleeping soundly. Everything is running as it should be, thanks to your gifts and talents as a doctor of Ayurveda! The next time you visit Omaha, I will be coming for another treatment and will be bringing my two at home daughters so that I can be sure to help them reach their optimum health. Dr. Kotecha, I am so grateful and appreciative to you and wish you all the best thank you for doing what you do!

With love and respect,

Stacy Simon, USA

The Ayurvedic Food Principles - by Dr. Mita Kotecha

Ayurveda has always classified food in terms of its positive and negative attributes, which are now being recognized by modern nutrition studies. According to the holistic approach adopted by Ayurveda, apart from food, lifestyle also influences one's thoughts, behavior, physical appearance and actions.

Food is seen as Prana, the carrier of life force, and is judged according to how it affects the conscious self. Based on its inherent qualities food is categorized into Sattva (purity), Rajas (activity, passion, the process of change), and Tamas (darkness, inertia).

Sattvic food

This kind of food is always freshly cooked and simple. It is food that can be digested easily and puts one's mind in a state of balance. It helps build immunity and improves the health of those who are ill. It includes foods closest to their natural forms like milk and milk products, fresh and dried fruits, and fresh vegetables (except onion, garlic, and chives). All whole grain cereals, most lentils, sprouts, natural sweeteners like jaggery and honey, and natural oils like homemade Ghee, butter and cold-pressed oils are considered sattvic.

Such food is lightly cooked with moderate spices (no chillies and black pepper) and has less fat. The spices commonly used in sattvic cooking are turmeric, ginger, cinnamon, coriander, fennel (saunf) and cardamom.

It's important to note that raw foods are not sattvic as they harbour parasites and microbes and are believed to weaken digestion and reduce ojas (vital energy) on which the proper functioning of the mind and spiritual development depends.

While Ghee is allowed ( it helps the development of the mind), oily and fatty foods should be eaten sparingly.

The Sattvic personality

People who follow the sattvic way of eating are known to be clear-minded, balanced, and spiritually aware. They usually avoid alcohol, stimulants like tea, coffee, tobacco and non-vegetarian food.

Rajasic food

This is food that is fresh but heavy. It includes non-vegetarian food like meat, fish, eggs, and chicken, all whole pulses and dals (not sprouted), hot spices like chillies, pepper, and all vegetables including onion and garlic. The rajasic diet is also cooked fresh and is nutritious. It may contain a little more oil and spices compared to sattvic food. It benefits those who believe in action and aggression in a positive way such as business persons, politicians, and athletes.

The Rajasic personality

This diet is linked to sensual stimulation. Rajasic people are usually aggressive (in a positive way) and full of energy. They are interested in the four Ps power, prestige, position and prosperity. But they are quite in control of their lives and aren't obsessed by any of the above. They are go-getters and know how to enjoy life.

Tamasic food

This includes foods that are not fresh, overcooked, stale and processed foods made from refined flour (maida), pastries, pizzas, burgers, chocolates, soft drinks, rumali roti, naan, tea, coffee, tobacco, alcohol, canned and preserved foods like jams, pickles and fermented foods, fried foods, sweets made from sugar, ice creams, puddings and most 'fun foods' are included in this list. All spicy, salty, sweet and fatty foods form part of the tamasic diet. Overeating is a tamasic trait. However, overeating sattvic food too brings on tamas in an individual.

The Tamasic personality

Tamas brings about stagnation leading to degeneration of people's health. Such individuals suffer from intense mood swings, insecurity, desires, and cravings and are unable to deal with others in a balanced way. They have little regard for the welfare of others and tend to be very self-centered. Their nervous system and heart do not function optimally and such individuals age fast. They usually suffer from conditions like cancer, heart disease, diabetes, arthritis, and chronic fatigue. They usually lead a sedentary lifestyle. Such individuals would benefit from switching to a sattvic diet. Others, who live life in moderation and are into politics, business, defense or into athletics would do well by following the Rajasic way of life.

Sattvic, Rajasic and Tamasic are more than just qualities in food - they are a way of life.

CHAKRAPANI PRODUCTs OF THE ISSUE

KHichari for Vata - (100% Vegetarian) : A delicious Ayurvedic wholesome meal, light and easy to digest. It balances Vata by providing complete tissue nourishment.

KHichari for PITTA - (100% Vegetarian) : A delicious Ayurvedic wholesome meal, light and easy to digest. It balances Pitta by providing complete tissue nourishment

Khichari for kapha - (100% Vegetarian) : A delicious Ayurvedic wholesome meal, light and easy to digest. It balances Kapha by providing complete tissue nourishment

KHichari for TRIDOSHA - (100% Vegetarian) : A delicious Ayurvedic wholesome meal, light and easy to digest. It balances Vata, Pitta and Kapha by providing complete tissue nourishment.

For more details on this please visit http://chakrapaniayurveda.com/kichadi.html

INTERESTING NEWS FOR THE MONTH

Ayurveda can reduce costs
Source: Hindustan Times

To reduce the rising cost of healthcare, India needs to bring traditional medicine systems, such as Ayurveda, into the mainstream, said renowned cardiovascular surgeon Dr Naresh Trehan.

Addressing the HT Leadership Summit on Friday, he said, "The new era of Indian medicine lies in putting to test the gems of herbal medicine along with modern science. Ayurveda works from within the body and decreases the need for intensive medical intervention, thereby reducing the overall cost."

Trehan whose 'Medicity Medanta' in Gurgaon, with 1,250-1,800 beds and specialty care, would be one of the largest health care facilities in the country - was speaking on Innovative Solutions to Health Challenges.

Ayurveda & Anemia

2009-09-17T04:02:00.000-07:00

Dear Readers,

In each edition, you will find exclusive articles written by renowned physician about how to stay healthy.

According to Ayurveda Anemia is known as Pandu roga. In anemia the pitta dosha gets vitiated and pitta is the causative factor for the color of skin hence in anemia the skin becomes pale. Due to regular consumption of pitta aggravating diet the Saadhak pitta found in heart gets aggravated and it is then forced by vata to whole body causing various symptoms of anemia.

Anemia can be a serious illness if left untreated. Anemia is generally diagnosed when the symptoms get worst. It is therefore important to consume a balanced diet esp. rich in iron. However there are other causes too which cause anemia which should be treated accordingly. The Ayurveda Newsletter is free--so go ahead.

Dr. Rajesh Kotecha 'Vaidya', M.D. (Ayurveda)
Director,
Chakrapani Ayurveda Clinic and Research Center

TESTIMONIAL

Dear Rajeshji,

We have safely returned back to US and our routines.

It was a pleasure meeting you and your family. Thank you for taking time to show me your facility. It is not doubt the most advanced, and state-of-the-art ayurvedic facility. Your tour was very informative and I think the work you are doing is of great quality and a service to mankind. The medicines available from Garry-n-sun in the US are of superior quality and properties, and their customer service is exemplary. I will make my plans to further my Ayurvedic education at your center.

I will talk to you when you are here in the US.

With Regards and Best Wishes,

Dr. Peeyush Bhargava MD
USA

DR. KOTECHA'S USA VISIT

Dr. Rajesh Kotecha, M.D. (Ayurveda), Director of Chakrapani Ayurveda, India will be visiting USA from 25th September to 10th October, 2009. He is again invited to the USA to give lectures, Panchakarma therapy, consultations and conduct workshops. He has received wonderful testimonials about his skills and ability as an Ayurveda expert. We invite our visitors of USA to attend any of his events to be organized during above said period. To get the details of his travel and to register for an appointment with him, kindly call Mr. Gary at 1-888-98-HERBS.

His tentative program for the lectures, workshops, personal consultations and Panchakarma at different places of West coast and Mid-West, USA is as below:

Sep 25 till Sep 29 2009- Garry & Sun LLC, contact Gary/Karen- 775 826 6004 or toll free 1 888 98 HERBS (43727)

Sep 30 - Oct 04 2009 - Omaha Healing Arts center at Omaha, Nebraska- Contact Sandy/Amy at 402-345-5078

Oct 05 2009 - Oct 07 2009- Hay Market Pilates & Yoga Center, Lincoln, Nebraska, Contact : Ms Cary at 402-477-5101

Oct 08 2009 till Oct 10 2009 - Healing Massage by Gina at Eden, North Carolina, contact Gina at 336-432-8792

Ayurveda & Anemia

Anemia is a disease characterised by the deficiency in the quality or quantity of one's blood. It is generally a Pitta (fire) derangement. The refined eye of Ayurveda also notes that anemia, like most imbalances, can be caused by any of the three doshas. Vata anemia is caused due to deficiency and/or malnourishment; Kapha anemia is caused partly by excess weight, congestion and edema.

You can determine whether you have anemia by several factors, pale or lifelessness, low energy, low grade fever or burning sensation, irregular elimination or yellowish and scanty urine, indigestion, vertigo, fainting, fatigue, and women may notice a pale or scanty menstrual flow, or no flow at all., the inner part of the lower eyelid will have no redness to it and if you squeeze your hand into a fist for a few seconds and release, the blood will take a long time to return to the palm.

There are many causes for anemia, related to both diet and lifestyle. Excess hot, sour and salty foods, and alcohol derange the blood. Malnutrition is another cause. A traumatic injury, pregnancy, excess menstruation or bleeding condition, febrile diseases, liver disorders and excess sexual indulgence can derange the kidneys, blood and ojas creating an anemic situation. A women should take blood enriching herbs immediately after her menstrual cycle.In children the main cause of anemia is due to habit of eating soil.

Soil can vitiate any one or two or all the three humors depending upon its taste - astringent soil vitiating Vata, alkaline soil vitiating Pitta, sweet soil vitiating Kapha.

Besides vitiating humors, soil gets stuck in gut and interferes with absorption. There are added dangers for infection and worm infestation.

GENERAL BLOOD BUILDERS: Organic milk from free range cows (boiled), black sesame seeds,pomegranate or black grape juice, molasses, sucanat (whole cane sugar) are all good food items. Vitamin C in the body helps in the better absorption of iron and by mixing the diet with a good amount of fruits with vitamin c on an everyday basis helps to improve the anemic condition.Iron supplements, vitamin A & E are useful only if taken with ginger or cinnamon to help assimilate the mineral. Chyavan prash, 2-3 tsp. twice daily with the warm milk are also useful suggestions. A mild laxative is suggested to regulate the bowels, helping drain the excess bile from the liver; aloe vera gel and triphala are the gentlest treatments.

GENERAL HERBAL THERAPY: In addition to aloe and triphala, saffron, shatavari, manjishtha and punarnava are the main treatments.

GENERAL GEM THERAPY: Red coral (or any red stones like garnet or ruby) improve blood circulation, particularly for Vata and Kapha doshas. Pearl or moonstone are good for Vata and Pitta constitutions.

SPECIFIC TREATMENTS: Each constitution or dosha is suggested to follow their food guidelines.

MEAT: Ayurveda suggests using meat only as a medicine since meat does not actually rebuild and regenerate the cells and tissues. In the case of extreme weakness, such as advanced cases of anemia, red meat (or its substitutes like liver pills) and bone soups are useful to take until the anemia is treated.

This article is for educational purposes only, and is not intended to treat, diagnose or prescribe. It in no way is intended to substitute for care from duly licensed health professionals.

Swami Sadashiva Tirtha, D.Sc., may be contacted through the International Vedic Institute - School of Ayurveda. Author: Ayurveda Encyclopedia, D.Sc. Ayurvedic Research, Founder: International Vedic Institute - Ayurveda School

The views as expressed in the article are of the author's and we have not changed anything following our policy of democratic behavior in all our work. It is possible that some of the readers do not agree on all the views of author.

UPCOMING EVENTS OF THE MONTH

Ashtanga Hrudaya Sathram (symposium)

Vagbhata Sarai, an NGO has been functioning from last two decades and it focuses on the holistic development of the Āyurvedic studies and practice. It has been conducting a series of Camps, Workshops and Programmes at Academic and Community level on a very regular basis. They are organizing a one week long symposium named Ashtanga Hrudaya Sathram from 13-12-09 to 20-12-09 in Kanyakumari, Tamilnadu. Interested readers may kindly visit www.vagbhatasarani.org or contact at

Email: vagbhatasarani@gmail.com vagbhatasarani@gmail.com www.vagbhatasarani.org
Tel: +91 9349507287, 9447329084, 9447091459.

CHAKRAPANI PRODUCT OF THE ISSUE

Dhatri lauh tablet : It is very good for peptic ulcer syndrome, pain in abdomen, hyper acidity, anemia and Pitta imbalances. It is also useful as a regular supplement after the first trimester of pregnancy and lactating mothers.

Triphala : Triphala is a combination of the dried fruits of Terminalia chebula, Terminalia belerica, and Emblica officinalis in equal proportions. These are popularly known in India as Harad, Behada and Amla. Harada and Behada have a warm energy, while Amla is cool. Triphala, being a combination of all three, is therefore balanced, making it useful as an internal cleansing, detoxifying formula for everyone including more sensitive type individuals and vegetarians. This formula and its individual ingredients are highly valued in Ayurveda, being compared to a "good manager of the house," aiding digestion, nutrient absorption and body metabolism.

Manjishtha : Though manjishtha is at the same time bitter, astringent and sweet in taste and heavy, dry and hot in effect, it is a pacifier of kapha and pitta. Besides the glucosides known as manjisthin and purpurine, its chemical composition consists of various other components, which include resins, lime salts and colouring agents. Manjishtha is used in a number of diseases. It is a drug of choice for treating various systemic problems like raised uric acid and gouty arthritis, glandular swellings, recurrent skin infections and other diseases of the skin like pigmentation anomalies and leucoderma. It is also included in various formulations to treat uterine and urinary infections, diarrhoea, dysentery and chronic fevers. Manjishtha holds the reputation of a very good skincare herb. Used externally and internally, it helps one to gain lustre and glow (of the skin) and aids to remove pimples, freckles and discoloration.

Punarnava : Punarnava helps maintain efficient kidney and urinary functions with its diuretic, laxative, stomachic, diaphoretic, anthelminthic anti-spasmodic and anti-inflammatory action.

Chyavanaprash : Chyavanprash is a comprehensive herbal tonic with multiple health benefits, prepared according to an ancient Ayurvedic formula. Used by people all over the world today, it is a proven energizer, immunity booster and pre-emptive tonic.

For more details on these products please visit http://chakrapaniayurveda.com

INTERESTING NEWS FOR THE MONTH

8 ayurvedic formulations identified for 8 disease conditions under Golden Triangle scheme

Thursday, September 03, 2009 08:00 IST

Joseph Alexander, New Delhi

As many as 38 ayurvedic formulations have been identified for eight disease conditions and 20 of them have been provided to CSIR for pre-clinical studies so far under the Golden Triangle Partnership scheme set up for validation of traditional ayurvedic drugs and development of new drugs.

The CSIR has submitted the status report of 10 formulations. They are tagradi kwatha (insomnia), medhya (ADHD), ashwagandha churna (anxiety neurosis), haritkyadi churna (dyslipidemia), GTP-HN-1 (hyper tension), brahmi ghrita (ADHD), gokshuradi guggulu (BPH), lakshadi guggulu (osteoporosis), nirgundi tail (joint disorders) and singhanada guggulu (joint disorders).The pre-clinical studies of all other formulations were under progress in different institutions now, sources in the Ayush department said.

The scheme was set up as an integrated technology mission for scientific validation of traditional medicines for identified disease conditions for which the apex organizations like Department of Ayush, Central Council for Research in Ayurveda and Siddha, CSIR and ICMR have joined hands. The objective of the scheme is to bring safe, effective and standard Ayurveda, Siddha, Homoeopathy and Unani products and develop new drugs of national and global importance. The apex bodies also collaborate with other institutions and companies with this purpose.

"The project is going well and more new collaborations are in the offing. The idea is to bridge the gap between modern medicine and traditional medicine so that India can tap the vast potential in the arena. It is the triangle being built between modern science, modern medicine and traditional medicine, giving a golden opportunity to the country," an official explained.

The CCRAS has also collected the inputs for protocols of different diseases and submitted to the ICMR for further revision. The draft protocols of hypertension, dyslipidemia, HIV/AIDS, osteoporosis and rheumatoid arthritis were thus given to the ICMR.

Source: http://www.pharmabiz.com

CONTACT US

SWINE FLU AND AYURVEDA

2009-08-20T03:49:00.000-07:00

Dear Readers,

Whole world is facing a pandemic of Swine Flu. All health agencies are gearing up their energies to fight with this situation in every countries. The question is, what Ayurveda approach should be about Swine Flu? We have an article from Dr. Modha and Dr. Mrs. Modha covering this and also a news release about how Tulasi can help in prevention of Swine Flu. Enjoy reading this and kindly do not forget to send us your valuable feedback. This special issue of AyurvedaNews on Swine Flu is also an outcome of feed back received from few of our valuable readers.

Best regards and Namaste!

Rajesh Kotecha 'Vaidya'
Director
Chakrapani Ayurveda

Dr. Kotecha's Visit to USA

Dr. Rajesh Kotecha, M.D. (Ayurveda), Director of Chakrapani Ayurveda, India will be visiting USA from 25th September to 9th October, 2009. He is again invited to the USA to give lectures, Panchakarma therapy, consultations and conduct workshops. He has received wonderful testimonials about his skills and ability as an Ayurveda expert. We invite our visitors of USA to attend any of his events to be organized during above said period. To get the details of his travel and to register for an appointment with him, kindly call Mr. Gary at 1-888-98-HERBS

His program for the lectures, workshops, personal consultations and Panchakarma at different places in USA will be made available at our websites shortly.

Testimonial.

Dear Dr. Rajesh,

I met you in March when the very kind Victoria Dyer bought me to you as I was writing an article for The Daily Mail newspaper in London. You kindly gave me some tablets and powder to help me with my kidneys and water retention. I am nearly at the end of the course and I would like to have another consultation over the internet if that is possible.

I cannot express my gratitude to you as my Kidney problems have cleared up a lot. I have seen top medical specialists here in London and since my trip to you they cannot believe the difference. It is a miracle where no one else could help. I have mentioned you to many people here in the UK and am in the process of writing a article about the Ayurvedic way.

I look very much forward to hearing from you.

Thanks so much.

Alex Longmore, UK

Swine Flu And Ayurveda by Dr. Joban Modha & Dr. Neha Tank Modha

Swine influenza (also called H1N1 flu, swine flu, hog flu, and pig flu) is an infection by any one of several types of swine influenza virus. Swine influenza virus (SIV) is any strain of the influenza family of viruses that is endemic in pigs. As of 2009, the known SIV strains include influenza C and the subtypes of influenza A known as H1N1, H1N2, H3N1, H3N2, and H2N3.

Swine influenza virus is common throughout pig populations worldwide. Transmission of the virus from pigs to humans is not common and does not always lead to human influenza, often resulting only in the production of antibodies in the blood. People with regular exposure to pigs are at increased risk of swine flu infection. The meat of an infected animal poses no risk of infection when properly cooked.

The Swine flu has been compared to other similar types of influenza virus in terms of mortality: "in the US it appears that for every 1000 people who get infected, about 40 people need admission to hospital and about one person dies". There are fears that swine flu will become a major global pandemic in the winter months, with many countries planning major vaccination campaigns.

Influenza is quite common in pigs; the main route of transmission is through direct contact between infected and uninfected animals.

People who work with poultry and swine, especially people with intense exposures, are at increased risk of zoonotic infection with influenza virus endemic in these animals, and constitute a population of human hosts in which zoonosis and reassortment can co-occur. Other professions at particular risk of infection are veterinarians and meat processing workers, although the risk of infection for both of these groups is lower than that of farm workers.

Main Signs and symptoms of swine flu:

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), in humans the symptoms of the 2009 "swine flu" H1N1 virus are similar to those of influenza and of influenza-like illness in general.

Symptoms include fever, cough, sore throat, body aches, headache, chills and fatigue. The 2009 outbreak has shown an increased percentage of patients reporting diarrhea and vomiting. The 2009 H1N1 virus is not zoonotic swine flu, as it is not transmitted from pigs to humans, but from person to person.

The most common cause of death is respiratory failure, other causes of death are pneumonia (leading to sepsis), high fever (leading to neurological problems), dehydration (from excessive vomiting and diarrhea) and electrolyte imbalance. Fatalities are more likely in young children and the elderly.

Prevention :

According to Ayurveda, prevention is always better than cure, and the primary aim goal of Ayurveda is to maintain the health of a healthy person. As stated: "Swasthasya Swasthya Rakshanam" here are the few preventive measures according to modern science and Ayurveda.

Prevention of swine influenza has three components:

· prevention in swine,

· prevention of transmission to humans,

· and prevention of its spread among humans.

The current trivalent influenza vaccine is unlikely to provide protection against the new 2009 H1N1 strain, so the control of swine influenza by vaccination has become more difficult in recent decades. But you don't worry even if you are not vaccinated. Start practicing Pranayama, especially "hot Pranayama like Bhastrika and Kapalbhanti"! This will improve your lungs capacity and immunity to combat any infections from the viruses.

Swine flu cannot be spread by pork products, since the virus is not transmitted through food but it spreads between humans through coughing or sneezing and people touching something with the virus on it and then touching their own nose or mouth.

The swine flu in humans is most contagious during the first five days of the illness although some people, most commonly children, can remain contagious for up to ten days. Diagnosis can be made by sending a specimen, collected during the first five days for analysis. So as soon as you feel discomfort with symptoms like sneezing, coughing and any other respiratory symptoms, start to have herbal tea, which is very common practice in India. The recipe of such herbal tea knows almost every mother or grandmother knows in India! well, if you don't know: let me explain:

Boil approximately 200ml of potable water, till it remains half and mix the following herbs in it.

· Juice of 10 to 15 fresh leaves of Tulasi (Basil),

· 5 ml of fresh ginger root juice,

· half spoon powder of cloves,

· half spoon powder of cinnamon bark,

· half spoon powder of peppermint leaves,

· half spoon powder of cardamom,

· half spoon of turmeric powder,

· half spoon of rock salt

Mix all these properly, add one spoon of honey when the tea is luke warm and have it twice or thrice a day.

These all-around wonder spices are said to help detoxify the liver, fight allergies, stimulate digestion, and boost immunity. All these drugs have anti viral, cleansing and antioxidant properties. It helps the free flow of oxygen to the brain, helps enhance digestion and circulation and stimulates the appetite. They are excellent for balancing Vaata and Kapha, which are the prominent Dosha in Swine influenza or any other respiratory track infections.

· Recommendations to prevent spread of the virus among humans include using standard infection control against influenza. This includes frequent washing of hands with soap and water or with alcohol-based hand sanitizers, especially after being out in public.

· Chance of transmission is also reduced by disinfecting household surfaces, which can be done effectively with a diluted chlorine bleach solution.

· Experts agree that hand-washing can help prevent viral infections, including ordinary influenza and the swine flu virus.

· Influenza can spread in coughs or sneezes, but an increasing body of evidence shows small droplets containing the virus can linger on tabletops, telephones and other surfaces and be transferred via the fingers to the mouth, nose or eyes.

· Alcohol-based gel or foam hand sanitizers work well to destroy viruses and bacteria.

· The Puja being done in Hindus has the similar disinfecting properties. Studies have shown that lighning the lamp of cow's Ghee has anti viral property. The Dhupana being done with the help of natural sticks (Agarbattis) and Guggulu has very effective disinfectant properties.

· Anyone with flu-like symptoms such as a sudden fever, cough or muscle aches should stay away from work or public transportation and should contact a doctor for advice.

· Social distancing is another tactic. It means staying away from other people who might be infected and can include avoiding large gatherings, spreading out a little at work, or perhaps staying home and lying low if an infection is spreading in a community.

· Public health and other responsible authorities have action plans which may request or require social distancing actions depending on the severity of the outbreak.

According to Ayurveda daily and dietary habits plays a major role in any disease. If your digestive fire is normal, your immunity will remain powerful and thus no infection can overrule you. So one should follow the ideal dietary regimen during seasons like monsoon and winter when the maximum chances are there for viral infections.

· One should avoid sleeping during the day hours.

· One should avoid traveling or being outdoors during the early hours of the day when there is dew and cold winds blow.

· Oil massage with oil possessing warm quality is beneficial.

· Clean and dry clothes should be worn.

· Individuals should avoid direct and strong cold winds.

· Avoid skipping meals.

· Try to move around the place of work instead of sitting in one place or do some kind of physical work. This will help you to refresh yourself, especially when you feel dull & lethargic.

· Try to avoid over exertion.

· Not delay or skip your meals, you should take meals at regular timings & in fixed quantities.

· Avoid damp, humid and cold weather, and environment.

· Avoid use of air conditioners.

· Drink a glass of water with two teaspoons of honey every day early in the morning.

· Always have fresh meals, prepared using minimum quantity of oil, or prepared with the help of Cow's ghee.

· Dry chatni & dry vegetables are recommended.

· Sprinkle your salads with dry ginger powder, and black pepper powder.

· Chewing of a bite of ginger before meals with little bit of salt is helpful to improve.

· Always choose warm food over cold food.

· Pickles made of 'Raw haldi' are recommended.

· Daily use of 'Honey' helps to control the excessive kapha.

Avoid:

· Regular use of sweets, butter, cheese, paneer etc.

· Dairy products especially curd and butter.

· Refrigerated, rewarmed, day old stale food, etc.

· Foods containing preservatives, artificial flavours, colours etc. Sauces, vinegar, pickles, chatani etc.

· Non-vegetarian food.

· Excessive use of Cheese, paneer, yogurt etc.

Ayurveda Treatment for Viral infections in cold seasons like Monsoon and winter:

If a person becomes sick with swine flu, antiviral drugs can make the illness milder and make the patient feel better faster. They may also prevent serious flu complications. For treatment, antiviral drugs work best if started soon after getting sick (within 2 days of symptoms).

Beside antivirals, supportive care at home or in hospital, focuses on controlling fevers, relieving pain and maintaining fluid balance, as well as identifying and treating any secondary infections or other medical problems.

The virus isolates in the 2009 outbreak have been found resistant to amantadine and rimantadine. In the U.S., on April 27, 2009, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) issued Emergency Use Authorizations to make available Relenza and Tamiflu antiviral drugs to treat the swine influenza virus in cases for which they are currently unapproved.

In such condition following Ayurveda drugs may be started as soon as possible. Few of these drugs have been found very effective in current research works and are being practiced in India since thousands of years for combating various seasonal and viral infections.

· Sanjivani vati

· Sitopaladi churna

· Sanshamani vati

· Vasadi vati

· Trikatu

· Chyavanprash

· Yastimadhu ghan vati

· Haridrakhand

Panchakarma procedures like Nasya Karma and Sadya Vamana Karma are also very useful for all respiratory track infections.

It is advisable to remain under medical supervision of a qualified and experienced Vaidya. We have seen miraculous results of above said drugs in various viral infections in thousands of patients in our clinical experience.

There is no doubt that above said drugs and Panchakarma helps to expel Kapha from the body and also helps to stop or to slower the viral load from the body, which is ultimately responsible for high grade fever and other symptoms which are responsible for high rate of mortality

Author - Dr. Joban Modha and Dr. Neha Tank Modha

Contact email - jkmodha@yahoo.com

Source: http://mangalorean.com

CHAKRAPANI PRODUCT OF THE ISSUE

Rasayanaprash:

Your Immunity Cover against Swine Flu.

Amalaki Tablets :

Amalaki is known as the richest natural source of Vitamin C and as an anti-oxident. Interestingly, the Vitamin C in Amalaki stays intact for long time and the temperature and other factors in the system do not harm its potency. This tablet can be taken as regular supplement of Vitamin C. In Ayurveda, it is described as the best fruit plant to contain rejuvenation and anti-aging properties; it can also be taken for maintaining a life long. Moreover, it helps in Amlapitta (acid peptic diseases), peptic ulcers, anemia, constipation and lack of appetite. It is one of the important component of the famous compound Chyavana Prash and Triphala.

Brahmi (Bacopa monnierri) :

Whole plant is used in Ayurvedic, Unani and Siddha systems of medicine as a nervine tonic, diuretic and blood purifier. It clears voice and improves digestion. It is cold sweet, astringent, diuretic, laxative and a tonic for heart and nerves. It is indicated in dermatosis, anemia, diabetes, cough, dropsy, fever, arthritis, anorexia, dyspepsia, emaciation and insanity. It helps eliminate excess fluids, decreases fatigue and depression, useful for connective tissue disorders, kidney stones, poor appetite and sleep disorders.

Shatpatradi tablet :

Useful in cough, cold, rickets, chronic fever and anemia.

Interesting Health News

Indian herb: Tulsi (basil) can help keep swine flu away: Ayurvedic experts

Lucknow, May 27: Wonder herb Tulsi can not only keep the dreaded swine flu at bay but also help in fast recovery of an afflicted person, Ayurvedic practitioners claim.

"The anti-flu property of Tulsi has been discovered by medical experts across the world quite recently. Tulsi improves the body's overall defence mechanism including its ability to fight viral diseases. It was successfully used in combating Japanese Encephalitis and the same theory applies to swine flu," Dr U K Tiwari, a herbal medicine practitioner says.

Apart from acting as a preventive medicine in case of swine flu, Tulsi can help the patient recover faster.

"Even when a person has already contracted swine flu, Tulsi can help in speeding up the recovery process and also help in strengthening the immune system of the body," he claims.

Dr Bhupesh Patel, a lecturer at Gujarat Ayurved University, Jamnagar is also of the view that Tulsi can play an important role in controlling swine flu.

"Tulsi can control swine flu and it should be taken in fresh form. Juice or paste of at least 20-25 medium sized leaves should be consumed twice a day on an empty stomach."

This increases the resistance of the body and, thereby, reduces the chances of inviting swine flu," believes Patel.

Please visit us at http://chakrapaniayurveda.com/tulsi.html for fresh Tulsi preparation

FEVER - Jwara or Pyrexia

2009-07-21T04:57:00.001-07:00

FEVER - Jwara or Pyrexia

Dear Readers,

The featured article of this issue is Fever - Jwara or Pyrexia. Fever is known as Jwara in sanskrit. the article describes that how deposition of toxins in our body leads to blockages in channels and thus causing rise in temperature of the body. Jwara is a clinical syndrome or a disease according to Ayurveda caused by several causative factors. It will be interesting for you to read about understanding of fevers from different perspective.

We thank you all for helping in achieving great success for our newsletter. Our newsletter is a platform for easily accessible knowledge of Ayurveda which is free to all and your valuable feedback play an important role in building up the new horizon to us.

Dr. Rajesh Kotecha 'Vaidya', M.D. (Ayurveda)
Director,
Chakrapani Ayurveda Clinic and Research Center

TESTIMONIALS

Hello Dear Dr. Rajesh,

What a pleasure to speak to you today. Thank you very much for taking my phone call. I am feeling so good with my herbs and panchakarma therapies that you gave. There was such tremendous healing energy in your hands and your presence, I could feel all my dhatus responding immediately! It was extraordinary and it renewed my faith in the true essence of Ayurveda. It also renewed my spirit because true divine healers are rare, but when I met you Dr. Rajesh, I knew that you were one of those through which the Divine is flowing. I could sense this when I looked into your eyes and felt your touch. I know Divine Mother answered my prayers for help in connecting me with you. I am so amazed how Divine Mother responds with so much generosity, connecting us to things that we never could have imagined and fulfilling our needs in the most extraordinary ways!
Let us stay in touch Dr. Rajesh.

With up most Love and Respect, Namaste.

Cary Twomey, Omaha, Nebraska, USA

FEVER - An Ayurveda approach edited By Dr. Neha Dave

Ayurveda, an ancient healing system refers fever as Jwara, a condition in which the body temperature goes beyond the normal temperature and is characterized by disturbance in normal functioning of the system. It believes that it is due to disruption of any one or all the Doshas or energy fields within the body system and if not attended immediately might damage other parts of the body.

The main symptoms of fever are a raise in body temperature, chills, sore throat, body stiffness, muscle aches, headache, disturbed digestion, lack of appetite etc.

Improper agni (digestive fire) leads to indigestion resulting in ama (toxins) which blocks the channels in the body which further leads to the blocking of the fire in different tissues resulting in fever.

CAUSES OF FEVER ACCORDING TO AYURVEDA

Fever according to ayurveda occurs when the digestive fire (Agni) and digestive toxins (Ama) which are normally found within the gastrointestinal tract are thrown out of their place by disrupted Doshas and then they overflow into the blood and lymphatic system. Its circulation in the body causes the typical symptoms like high temperature, heaviness etc. Because of this the Three Doshas are further irritated and it spreads throughout the blood stream.

When supplemented with its own heat plus the heat of the misplaced Agni, the temperature of the body raises and causes the symptoms of fever. During a high body temperature, Ayurveda suggests to have a cold sponging, an easily digestible liquid diet and complete rest.

MANAGEMENT OF FEVER ACCORDING TO AYURVEDA

Ayurveda, a holistic medical system, emphasis that fever is due to toxicity in the Rasa Dhatu (the body's basic vital tissue) and manages fever by Fasting (Langhana), Sudation (Swedana), patience (Kala - should not rush for aggressive treatments to make temperature down)), Light diet (e.g. Yavagu), Bitter drugs (Tikta Bheshajam) and Detoxification (ama pachana) and Yogasanas. The treatment depends on the duration, the cause of the fever and the other symptoms that accompany it.

1. Fasting - Strengthens the digestive system and eliminates Ama which in turn cleans the channels of the body. Strong person can fast whereas weak persons can take up a light diet. A lot of liquid diet like vegetable soups or just hot ginger water which alleviates the aggravated Dosha and increases the appetite should be taken.

2. Sweating - One can drink a simple spicy tea to induce sweat or he/she can be covered with a blanket so that he/she is made to sweat as this process clears toxins, raises the body temperature that kills the external organisms like viruses / bacteria and normalizes the body temperature.

3. Light Diet- After the body achieves the normal temperature one should take light diet of fresh fruits, Khichari and lightly cooked vegetables.

4. Bitter Ayurvedic drugs - The medicines which burns Ama, increases the white blood cell count and help the body to fight infections are useful. They are Jwarahara Vati, Shadangapaniya, Guduchi Sattva, Mahasudarshan Vati, Sanshamani Vati and other different bitter herbs and compounds.

5. After fever the patient is advised to undergo a detoxification (mild purgative regime - Panchakarma) treatment as it expels remaining Ama and strengthens the digestive system. Then one should undergo a preventive regime which will reduce the chances of reccurance of fever.

6. It is also suggested that Yogasanas like Suryasana and Matsyasana are to be practiced to pacify the aggravated Pitta Dosha which is the root cause of fever and meditation helps to deal with fever with balancing act and clarifying the mind.

Thus Ayurveda manages fever by restoring the Agni (fire) in the body and enhancing the proper metabolism.

Source : http://www.content4reprint.com/health/alternative-medicine/ayurveda-herbal-treatment-for-fever.htm

DO'S AND DON'TS FOR TREATING FEVER

1. Drink as much water as you can in order to replace fluid loss. It will also help to bring down body temperature.

2. Take adequate rest.

3. Avoid eating solid foods until the fever is gone. You can replace the foods by drinking plenty of distilled water and/or juices.

4. If the person is sleeping don't wake him up to give medicines or to take the temperature, sleeping is more important.

5. Always consult a doctor before giving any medications to the patient.

6. The patient needs full physical examination that will include a detailed evaluation of the skin, eyes, ears, throat, neck and abdomen to look for the causes of fever.

CHAKRAPANI PRODUCT OF THE ISSUE

Pachak (Digestive help) herbal tea :

· Helps in bloating and acid reflux problems.

· A balancing formula for the healthy digestive system

· Helps in improving digestion

BRAHMI MEMORY ENHANCER BRU (100% caffeine free) 50g pack :

Enhances memory
learning and recall levels
Boosts brain capacity to think and reason
Improves concentration and digestion
Increases alertness and freshness

RECIPE OF THE MONTH - BUTTERMILK CURRY (KADHI)

Preparation time : 30 minutes Serves: 6-8 -Vata, mildly +Pitta, +Kapha

Ingredients : 2 & 1/2 cups fresh buttermilk or yogurt, 3 & 1/2 cups water, 1/4 cup Besan - chickpea flour (available at Indian groceries and some health food stores), 3 tsp melted butter or ghee, I tsp mustard seeds, 3 to 4 curry leaves, 1 cinnamon stick, 2 pinch of asafetida, 1/4 tsp turmeric powder, 1/4 tsp.chopped ginger, I inch long or 1/4 tsp ground cinnamon, I teaspoon sea salt, 1/4 green pepper chopped (optional)

Procedure : Mix buttermilk or yogurt, water and chickpea flour in large bowl with beater until completely smooth. In small skillet heat butter or ghee; add mustard seeds, curry leaves, ginger, green chilly cinnamon and asafetida. Heat until mustard seeds start popping. Add this mixture to the buttermilk and chickpea flour mixture. Add remaining ingredients. Heat over medium heat just to boiling point, stirring constantly to avoid overflowing. Mixture will thicken slightly. Serve warm with Rotis and Rice.

CONTACT US
Chakrapani Ayurveda Clinic & Research Center,
Chakrapani Global Center for Training & Research in Ayurveda
8, Diamond hill, Behind Birla Temple, Tulsi circle, Shanti path, Jaipur-302004, India.
Telefax : +91-141-2624003 Phone: +91-141-2620746
E-mail: info@chakrapaniayurveda.com
http://chakrapaniayurveda.com , http://LearnAyurveda.com , http://ayu.in
http://garrysun.com , http://PanchakarmaEquipment.com

Vegetarianism - An Ethical Diet for Peace and Plenty

2009-07-06T05:22:00.000-07:00

Vegetarianism - An Ethical Diet for Peace and Plenty

Dear Readers,

We wish you and your family the best of health and happiness in this season of renewal and fresh beginnings. Please enjoy the healthful article by Mr. R.P. Jain in this issue of our newsletter and enjoy the healthful recipe of the month.

We like to sharing more Ayurvedic vegetarian recipes and interesting articles. If there is anything in particular you'd love to read about in our newsletter, please feel free to send us e-mail with your request.

We always welcome your valuable article and suggestion to make this newsletter more friendly to you.

Best regards and thanks.

Dr. Rajesh Kotecha 'Vaidya', M.D. (Ayurveda)
Director,
Chakrapani Ayurveda Clinic and Research Center

VEGETARIANISM- by Mr. R. P. Jain

In India, the land of ahimsa, or nonviolence, people have traditionally been vegetarian. Hailing from a family of staunch vegetarians, I consider myself fortunate to be living in harmony with the principles of nature. As a Jain follower, I strongly advocate a vegetarian diet, which I find superior not only from a moral stance, but also from the health and culinary points of view. Guests at our home, coming from both vegetarian and nonvegetarian backgrounds, are always overwhelmed with what they describe as the unbelievable taste and richness of our vegetarian cuisine.

Sadly, in recent times many Hindus, Jains and Buddhists, especially of the younger generation, are no longer so strict about our precepts and have taken to nonvegetarian food, mostly following the misconception that meat-eating is healthy. Truth be told, a vegetarian diet is actually much healthier than one based on animal protein. It is argued that there is a lot of protein in meat and eggs, but we do not need so much concentrated protein in our diet. there is plenty of protein in nuts, seeds, pulses and dairy products, which are also far easier to digest. Vegetarianism supports mental and physical health as well as spiritual cultivation. Fruits, vegetables, pulses, nuts and milk products provide a balanced diet which does not make our system toxic. This is primarily because when an animal is killed, it becomes dead matter. In the case of many vegetables, if we eat part of the vegetable and re-plant another part, it can grow again. It is still a living organism.

It is a healthy sign that more and more people in the US, UK, Europe and other parts of the world are taking to a vegetarian diet in modern times, chiefly due to health reasons. There is a growing acceptance in the West that vegetarianism connotes a more positive way of living than flesh eating. In India, the pilgrimage destination of Haridwar still enjoys the status of being a vegetarian city. Even in Japan, known to be virtually 100 percent nonvegetarian, you can now find vegetarian restaurants.

My friend Martin Gluckman, who runs the Vedic society and teaches organic and ayurvedic cooking in south africa, hails Indian vegetarianism thusly: "India has the world's greatest cuisine and most variety of dishes, boasting to its amazing cultural and spiritual heritage. It has a time-tested vegetarian cuisine offering a delight for all senses and the heart. India can be proud to have the world's largest per-capita number of vegetarians (I have read reports of more than 40%). no other country can make such a statement of humanity and nonviolence.

The vegetarian culture and lifestyle is India's greatest achievement and gift to the world. Only in years to come will the true value of this gift be known." It is important that we remain vegetarian not only for our health and nutrition, but from the points of view of spirituality, compassion, ethics, ecology and economics as well. When we see the end product of meat in the supermarket or leather in the shoe store, there is a long chain of violence that created it. these products endorse and perpetuate violence in our society, which contributes to the terrorism that is rampant across the world. Eating habits reflect upon a human being's thoughts, speech and behavior. A nonvegetarian diet makes one prone to violence.

By moving away from food of violence we can move rapidly toward world peace. Albert Einstein averred, " It is my view that the vegetarian manner of living, by its purely physical effect on human temperament, would most beneficially influence the lot of mankind." When a helpless animal is killed by a deliberate act of violence, it dies in great dread. Its body is flush with hormones produced by fear. These toxic substances enter the body of the person who eats the flesh and adversely affect his or her body and mind. I have always wondered, how can the carcass of an animal that died in mortal fear give good health and refined, spiritual inclinations to its consumer?

Additionally, meat production is one of the most environmentally damaging industries in terms of pollution and inefficient use of agricultural land. According to a 2006 report from the United nations Food & agriculture Organization, livestock production is responsible for more greenhouse gases than all the motor vehicles in the world, plus it severely degrades land and water. It is also necessary to remove the myth and argument that vegetarians will not get enough food if non vegetarians do not eat meat. This is a fallacy. It has been conclusively proven that more people can be sustained on vegetarian food than a diet based on meat. Livestock occupy over 30 percent of our planet's land surface, and 33 percent of global arable land is used to grow their feed, pointing to why a meat-based diet requires seven times more land than a plant based diet. Thus, one of the easiest ways to help restore our environment and feed more people is to stop raising and killing animals for human consumption. We have no right to take the life of an animal when we cannot give it.

Economically, a vegetarian diet is preferable to a nonvegetarian diet. the same energy one can get from meat and eggs one can get from pulses and cereals. it actually costs three or four times as much money to produce an equivalent amount of calories from animal sources as from vegetable sources. some people may worry that self-control and too much care about nature would hamper development and bring about poverty. We know too well, however, that the more we consume, the more expensive things become, leading to the growth of the destitute class. Reckless commercial development also results in economic and social crises, bringing further suffering to the poor. Ahimsa, or nonharm, does not deny economic development; It only exercises self-control, limits our desires. Desires are endless. More and more desires give rise to materialism and extraordinary greed, far beyond basic human needs and sustainable consumption.

Greed results in the destruction of the very roots of our life. if we want to prevent the world from becoming a barren desert and our societies from growing into monstrous systems of injustice and suffering, self-control and nonviolence appear as the only reasonable answernot only for Jains, but for people of any creed. For any spiritual being, the destruction of life, be it in the air, the water or on the ground, is a sin. But even if you do not subscribe to this principle, you will agree that reckless destruction of life could eventually lead to mankind's own demise. Jainism is not the only Indian school advocating nonviolence and self-control as central principles. Buddhism and Hinduism equally preach them.

Mr. R. P. Jain, a director of Motilal Banarsidass, a celebrated publisher of spiritual and religious books in India. He can be contacted at mlbd@vsnl.com

NUTRITION FROM AN AYURVEDIC PERSPECTIVE

According to Ayurveda, there are ten principles about a healthy diet and how it is to be eaten. They are:

1. Food needs to be hot (usually cooked).

2. Food needs to be tasty and easy to digest.

3. Food needs to be eaten in the proper amounts, not too much or too little.

4. Food needs to be eaten on an empty stomach, after last meal has been digested, and not before.

5. Foods need to work together and not contradict one another in their actions.

6. Foods need to be eaten in pleasant surroundings with the proper equipment for their enjoyment.

7. Eating should not be rushed.

8. Eating should not be a horrendously drawn out affair, either.

9. It is best to focus on food while eating.

10. Only eat food which is nourishing to particular constitution and which suits mental and emotional temperament.

(Charaka, Vimana 1/24)

RECIPE OF THE MONTH- UPMA

Material :

Sooji (semolina) 1/4 big spoon full
Ghee 3 tbsp full
Onion 1 chopped
Tomato 1 chopped
Mustard seeds
Salt to taste
Coriander leaves

According to the availability you can also add seasonal vegetables like carrots, and peas. Before adding these vegetables chop the carrots fine and boil them .

Method : Take an open pan, add ghee to it. Heat the ghee, when it is heated well then add mustard seeds to the ghee followed by that add onions, fry them till they are golden brown. Simultaneously in an open pan keep 2 cups of water for boiling.

Now add sooji to the ghee, keep on frying it until it turns light brown, and little ghee starts coming out.

Add boiled water to the sooji slowly and keep on stirring it also add little salt to taste. Then add tomatoes and chopped coriander leaves to it. Keep it on fire for a few min . and then turn the gas off . The upma is ready. Serve it hot.

Source: http://chakrapaniayurveda.comnews/june1209.html