Thursday, June 28, 2007

Places For Meditation and Yoga
"Rishikesh, which translates as 'Land of Rishis or Yogis,' could be considered the capital of yoga and meditation in India. There are many ashrams along the banks of the holy river Ganga. Most are low-budget, offering no-frills accommodations and a fairly strict daily vegetarian diet (complete avoidance of eggs, meat, garlic, onions, intoxicants, cigarettes, etc.). All have wonderful tranquil locations -- quite and peaceful, perfect for contemplation and meditation. These are excellent places to learn and practice yoga from skilled exponents of the art.

Some of the Ashrams offering yoga and meditation classes in the Rishikesh area are the Yoga Study Centre (91-1364-243-1196), Yoga Niketan Ashram (91-1364-243-0227), Parmarth Niketan Ashram, and Sri Ved Niketan Ashram (91-1364-243-3537). Courses range from a week to a month and include daily yoga and meditation classes, satsangs (devotional gatherings), and bhajans (hymns). There is limited space so you must book in advance. There is an annual event (International Yoga Week) held at Parmarth Niketan Ashram every February/March, which would be an excellent introduction to the various yoga styles.

Thursday, June 21, 2007

Total number of overweight adults: (20 through 74 years old) approximately one-third or 58 million Americans. (overweight defined as a BMI value of 27.3 percent or more for women and 27.8 percent or more for men) Nearly 70 percent of the diagnosed cases of cardiovascular disease are related to obesity.

Obesity more than doubles one's chances of developing high blood pressure, which affects approximately 26 percent of obese American men and women.

Every year, 300,000 people in the U.S.A. die from being overweight These are frightening statistics. However, in this day and age, there are some amazing options for those wishing to shed weight, fast!

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Welcome to the world of weight loss and total health through Ayurveda and Yoga.

Saturday, June 16, 2007

5 Truths About Ayurveda by Lindsay Fox

#1 Ayurvedic medicine is less effective.
Truth: It is true that this method of treatment calls for more patience and endurance. The effectiveness can be cited by this example.
Whenever there is a tear in a cloth or a hole in a pitcher, we intend to rectify it using the similar material that it is made of. Similarly any fault in human body also calls to be corrected by use of natural resources, as much as possible.

#2 Ayurvedic medicines are slow in showing results.
Truth: The irony lies with the delay from patient’s side. Most patients visiting holistic practitioners take their time in trying other systems of medicine so as to derive a faster result. This not only delays the effect of medicine, it also hampers the working of the drug. This is because the patient has either tried much more complicated and powerful combination of drugs, the effect of which needs to be neutralized first. Or in the mean time, his malady has substantially become deep rooted and taken chronic form. It may at times show to work slowly, but as the fable goes slow and steady wins the race.

# 3 Ayurvedic medicine has side effects.
Truth: Any side effect from medicine, of any therapy, may result from the misuse of drug, either in processing or in prescribing. As far as side effect or after effect is concerned, I believe time tested medicines are safer provided the former two factors are precise. The safety of Ayurvedic medicine and mode of treatment may be advocated in 3 points.
1. In Ayurveda the very first principle in treating a disease is to do away with the basic cause, and also to see that no new ailment emerges as a consequence. A disease is eradicated from its roots.
2. Ayurveda insists that medicine be centered at the patient, than on the disease. The mind, body and soul are considered a tripod and medicine is prescribed for overall health augmentation.
3. Since Ayurveda deals with preparations mainly from herbs and natural resources, it is a harmless therapy with least or no side effects.

#4 Ayurvedic medicines are for older patients.
Truth: There is no known limitation in this form of treatment. It is equally suited to all age groups. Ayurveda could be considered a boon for children when their body system is yet tender and in process of immunity building. The natural products do not interfere with their body resistance and at the same time tends to be more safe and comforting.

#5 Ayurvedic medicines are just an alternative.
Truth: Ayurvedic system of medicine is incorrectly quoted as an alternate therapy as this has always been the most ancient and complete system of medicine. It’s been existing before the birth of other medical therapies. The word Ayurveda is itself derived from ‘Ayush’ which means life and ‘Veda’ which means science. There fore, Ayurveda is the complete science of life. It is a treasure to provide every individual a life full of health, vigor and vitality.
source--- INTERNET

Saturday, June 09, 2007

Carrer options after BAMS
There are so many avenues that I have decided to open discussion on each course separately. Here is a general outline.
Practice options
Plain G.P.
G.P. with Panchakarma/ Yoga
Consulting practice
Consulting practice with Panchakarma / Yoga
Day care indoor facility with or without Panchakarma /Yoga
Indoor hospital with or without Panchakarma / Yoga
Health resort or spa with or without Panchakarma / Yoga
Old age home / Rasaayana chikitsa kendra
Specialist resorts like cancer resort / rheumatology resort /skin care resort
Specialized practice
KC
Prasuti- strirog
Shalya
Ksharsutra
Shalaakya & Netra
Cardiology
Skin
Psychiatry
Diabetology
Sports medicine
Geriatrics
Paediatrics
Orthopedics
Rheumatology
Dietetics
Beauty treatment
YogaJobs in India
Teaching
Teaching hospitalsZPPHC & RH
Pharmacies
Research projectsHealth resorts
Other fields
Medicinal Plantation
Translation Services
Trading in Ayurvedic drugs
Jobs abroad
Health spas
TeachingImport export
Courses after BAMSIn Ayurved fieldUniversity of Pune
PGPP (TAMV Pune)Ayu.
Dietetics
Beauty treatment
MBA Ayu Pharma
Analytical techniques
Health sector Other than Ayurved
M.Sc. Health Sciences
MPHCRCDMMUHS Nashik
M.Sc. Pharmaceutical sciences
Clinical ResearchFields other than health
MBA any branch
MBA Biotechnology
Database management
Content provider for databases
CHOICE IS YOURS

Monday, June 04, 2007

Skin Care

Herbs for the management of acne.
THE skin is the largest organ of the human body, both in terms of surface area and weight. It accounts for 15% of total body weight.
Skin is essential in many ways. It acts as a physical barrier and prevents harmful substances and microorganisms from entering the body. It protects body tissues and the network of muscles, bones, nerves and blood vessels against injury. It also controls the loss of fluids like blood and water, helps regulate body temperature through perspiration, and protects from the sun's damaging ultraviolet rays.
The skin consists of three layers (outer – epidermis; middle – dermis; and lower – subcutaneous tissue). It also contains structures like sweat glands, sebaceous glands, hair and hair follicles.
Sebaceous glands secrete an oily substance called sebum and are found over the entire surface of the body except for the palms, soles, and dorsum of the feet. They are largest and most concentrated in the face and scalp – the sites of origin of acne. Sebum protects hair and skin, and keeps them from becoming dry, brittle, and cracked. It also inhibits the growth of microorganisms on skin.
Acne
Acne is a common skin disorder, affecting virtually all adolescents and adults at some time in their lives. Although overall health is not impaired, acne is not a trivial disease, as it can produce cutaneous and emotional scars that last a lifetime1,2,3. Numerous psychological problems stem from acne, some even resulting in decreased employability in adulthood4.
Acne is characterised by whiteheads, blackheads, and inflamed red pimples. Acne commonly appears on the face and shoulders, but may also occur on the trunk, arms, legs, and buttocks.
This condition is most common in teenagers; three out of four teenagers have acne to some extent, probably caused by hormonal changes that stimulate oil (sebum) production.
People in their 30s and 40s may also have acne. Young women are more likely to have intermittent acne due to hormonal changes associated with their menstrual cycle.
Each skin pore is an opening of a hair follicle, which contains a hair and a sebaceous gland. When skin pores are blocked due to excessive sebum secretion and accumulation of dirt, debris and bacteria, acne is produced.
This blockage further leads to inflammation and painful cysts. Severe acne can lead to serious and permanent scarring. Although the exact cause of acne is not known, certain factors such as greasy and fried foods, greasy cosmetic products, drugs, birth control pills, stress, and humidity can trigger acne.
Skin care regime
Good skin care calls for a mix of internal and external cleansing. Internal cleansing refers to removal of toxins in the blood and other inflammatory mediators that can give rise to various skin problems.
Regular skin regimes include the use of the right cleansers, toners, lotions and moisturisers for a healthy and clean skin. An unhygienic, poorly protected and undernourished skin is susceptible to acne.
Maintain good skin hygiene; clean your skin and remove dirt, grime and make-up by using mild soap, lemon or honey. Lemon removes grime and oil, while honey has antibacterial and antiseptic properties and prevents scar formation.
Avoid excessive or repeated washing of skin. Use non-greasy and water-based cosmetics. Avoid squeezing, pressing or pricking pimples. Be relaxed, and avoid tension, stress and excessive worry.
A number of herbs are used in Ayurveda for the treatment of acne and pimples.
Masura/Lens culinaris/lentil
Lentil has been cultivated and valued as an article of food since ancient times. It has also been used medicinally in many European countries.
Lentil is valued for its high protein content. It is astringent, nourishing, blood-enriching and effective in skin diseases. It is used as a natural cleanser for clarifying and enhancing skin complexion. The astringent, cooling and anti-inflammatory properties of L. culinaris help in reducing the inflammation due to acne.
Kumari/Aloe barbadensis/Barbados Aloe
Aloe barbadensis is a perennial plant with long, erect leaves that contain a sticky juice. The leaf juice forms the main source of this herb.
Aloes have been used for a host of diseases, particularly those connected with the digestive system. A. barbadensis possesses emollient, astringent, cooling and healing properties and is widely used in various creams, lotions and shampoos.
The antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties of A. barbadensis have also been well documented5,6,7. It is beneficial in various skin disorders such as acne, sunburn, bruises, and dermatitis.
Nirgundi/Vitex negundo/five-leaved chaste tree
Vitex negundo is a large, aromatic shrub. It has astringent, anti-inflammatory, analgesic, membrane stabilising and antioxidant properties8. These properties make V. negundo an excellent and effective herb in the treatment of skin disorders.
Shalmali/Salmalia malabarica/silk cotton tree
Salmalia malabarica is a large and tall, deciduous tree. It is astringent, cooling, styptic and anti-inflammatory. Hence, it is beneficial in acne and skin eruptions. S. malabarica also possesses antibacterial and antifungal properties, which are attributed to “shamimin”, one of its active constitiuents9,10.
Acne involves both intrinsic and extrinsic factors. The presence of inflammation-causing substances and toxins in the blood and the damage brought about by factors such as pollution and free radicals work together to cause acne, pimples and other skin problems. Ayurveda prescribes various herbs, such as Neem, Haridra and Manjistha, for internal cleansing and to keep the skin healthy and glowing.
Nimba/Azadirachta indica/neem
Neem is a useful tree that is indigenous to India and is cultivated all over the country for its bark, leaves and fruits. Since time immemorial, all parts of the neem tree – the leaves, flowers, seeds, fruits, roots and bark – have been used for the treatment of inflammation, infections, fever, skin diseases and dental disorders.
Nimbidin is a major active principle of Azadirachta indica that helps in inflammation. Neem leaves and their constituents exhibit immunomodulatory, anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, antioxidant, and anticarcinogenic effects11. These properties are of immense value in skin conditions like acne and pimples, eczema, and dermatitis. It is also useful in preventing free radical-induced skin damage.
Haridra/Curcuma longa/turmeric
Turmeric has been used traditionally as a spice in Asian cuisines for its powerful antiseptic properties. It has anti-inflammatory properties and is an excellent antiseptic. It possesses antioxidant, tonic, blood purifying, anthelmintic, and digestive properties.
Studies have demonstrated the potent antioxidant activity of curcuminoids, active compounds found in Curcuma longa, and their ability to prevent skin damage caused by free radicals12.
Ayurveda believes inner toxicity to be a key factor behind many skin disorders. Therefore, skin problems, including acne, can be better managed by attending to overall health, not just skin. Healthy, glowing skin is, in fact, a reflection of a healthy body.

References
1. Webster GF. Inflammation in acne vulgaris. J. Am. Acad. Derm. 1995;33:247-53.
2. Kligman AM. An overview of acne. J. Invest. Derm. 1974;62:268-87.
3. Koo J. The psychosocial impact of acne: Patient’s perceptions. J. Am. Acad. Dermatol. 1995;32:S26-S30.
4. Cunliffe WJ. Acne and unemployment. Br. J. Derm. 1984;115: 386.
5. Saada HN, Ussama ZS, Mahdy AM. Effectiveness of Aloe vera on the antioxidant status of different tissues in irradiated rats. Pharmazie. 2003;58(12):929-31.
6. Hu Y, Xu J, Hu Q. Evaluation of antioxidant potential of Aloe vera (Aloe barbadensis miller) extracts. J. Agric. Food Chem. 2003;51(26):7788-91.
7. Bautista-Perez R, Segura-Cobos D, Vazquez-Cruz B. In vitro antibradykinin activity of Aloe barbadensis gel. J. Ethnopharmacol. 2004;93(1):89-92.
8. Dharmasiri MG, Jayakody JR, Galhena G, Liyanage SS, Ratnasooriya WD. Anti-inflammatory and analgesic activities of mature fresh leaves of Vitex negundo. J. Ethnopharmacol. 2003;87(2-3):199-206.
9. Rani P, Khullar N. Antimicrobial evaluation of some medicinal plants for their anti-enteric potential against multi-drug resistant Salmonella typhi. Phytother. Res. 2004;18(8):670-73.
10. Faizi S, Ali M. Shamimin: A new flavonol C-glycoside from leaves of Bombax ceiba. Planta Med. 1999;65(4):383-85.
11. Subapriya R, Nagini S. Medicinal properties of neem leaves: a review. Curr Med Chem Anti-Canc Agents. 2005;5(2):149-56.
12. Bonte F, Noel-Hudson MS, Wepierre J, Meybeck A.Protective effect of curcuminoids on epidermal skin cells under free oxygen radical stress. Planta Med. 1997;63(3):265-66.

This article is courtesy of Himalaya Healthcare.

Friday, June 01, 2007

Interactive Online Correspondence Course - "Basic course in Ayurveda".

As you know, we at 'Ayurveda For You' are the first to publish Ayurvedic books in e-book format. So far we have published 11 ebooks on various topics in Ayurveda.
We are glad to announce the launch of a new short term Interactive Online Correspondence Course - "Basic course in Ayurveda".

This certificate course will be conducted through our website- http://ayurveda-foryou.com in collaboration with 'International Academy of Ayurveda'. International Academy of Ayurveda will issue a certificate after completion of course.

This online "Basic course in Ayurveda," is intended for:
1. Healthcare professionals, who want to upgrade and deepen their knowledge in their fields of specialization or widen their knowledge into the field of Ayurveda.
2. Professionals and lifelong learners interested in taking continuous education courses.
3. This course is also useful for physicians interested in alternative medicine systems, non - medical practitioners, dieticians, dietary assistants, physiotherapists and Yoga teachers, who are interested in widening their professional and personal competence.

For more information about this online course please visit -http://ayurveda-foryou.com/online_course.html