Five Essential Ayurvedic Herbs for Managing Type II Diabetes

5 potent Ayurvedic herbs that have been found to be highly effective as adjuvant therapies in Type II Diabetes.

1] Gurmar or Madhuvinashini (Gymnema sylvestre)- ‘Gurmar’ in Hindi (National Language of India) or ‘Madhuvinashini’ in Sanskrit literally means ‘one that vanquishes sugar’. It is so called because it temporarily abolishes sweet taste by anesthetizing our taste buds. Its leaves and almost all parts are used for medicinal purposes. Gurmar not only helps in regulating blood sugar levels in type II diabetes; it also helps in regeneration and repair of the beta cells in our pancreas (gland which secretes insulin).
2] Bitter Gourd/bitter melon (Momordica charantia)- Bitter gourd or ‘karela’ as it is called in Hindi is an extremely bitter tasting fruit which lives up to its name. However, despite of its bitter disposition, it is still one of the tastiest vegetables in Indian cuisine. Bitter gourd helps in reducing the blood sugar levels in type II diabetes. It has powerful antioxidants which make it an ideal supplement and essential dietary component for diabetic as well as pre-diabetic individuals.
3] Jamun (Syzygium cumini/ Eugenia jambolana)- Jamun (Hindi) is an evergreen green tree native to India, that ripens at the beginning of rainy season. Jamun fruits are sweet, slightly sour and extremely astringent in taste. They are very popular in India for their deep purple-black color and unique taste. The fruits, seeds, bark and even leaves of jamun tree are used for their anti-diabetic and antioxidant qualities.6 Jamun helps in regulating the blood sugar levels and is also found to boost the secretion of insulin.
4] Fenugreek (Trigonella foenum graecum)-The seeds and leaves of Fenugreek, commonly known as ‘Methi’ in Hindi and ‘Methika’ in Sanskrit are an integral part of Indian cooking. Fenugreek also has powerful anti-diabetic properties. It helps in keeping blood sugar levels in check and improves insulin resistance in Type II diabetes. A popular way of taking fenugreek seeds is to soak 1 tablespoon of fenugreek seeds in water at night and eat them early next morning on empty stomach.
5] Turmeric (Curcuma longa)-Turmeric or ‘Haridra’ (Sanskrit) or ‘Haldi’ as it is commonly known in India, is the most preeminent Indian spice, an integral part of Indian cuisine and an auspicious component of Hindu Religious ceremonies. Turmeric has been extensively used in Ayurveda for the treatment of Prameha.Whole turmeric is more effective than using its individual active constituents like curcumin.

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Ashwagandha, Shatavari and Turmeric Are Great Herbal Ayurvedic Remedies

One of the efficient health tonics for males to attain physical strength, masculinity, virility and potency is Ashwagandha. This herbal tonic is being used in the Indian sub-continent as an effective herbal medicine since more than twenty five hundred years. While it is a good health tonic and it can be used daily as a healthy diet supplement, it is also used as a preventive and curative medicine against a number of diseases and sickness.

The good thing about this herbal medicine is that is increases the efficiency and strength of our immunity system and since it is herbal and natural medicine perfectly suitable for our health and digestive system, it causes no side effects. This herbal medicine is also effective as an adaptogenic agent and it helps in preventing, reducing and curing restlessness, weakness, headache, stress, depression and hypertension. In addition, this herbal ayurvedic medicine can also be used as a natural pain reliever.

Shatavari is popular too. Especially for women. A female body is quite different from male body and it requires extra care and specific health promoting medicines. One of such medicines that are specifically meant to help women gain internal strength and better immune system is shatavari. This herbal medicine is very helpful for women as it not only help them in improving their immune system, it also acts as an adaptogenic agent and helps them to cope with the changing environment and the hormonal changes that occur in the female body.

Since this herbal drug can efficiently help women to improve their immune system, it is considered as an effective protective and preventive medicine that helps women to fight against a number of diseases and illnesses. It also helps females to avoid stress, anxiety, depression, hypertension, restlessness, body pains, weakness, mood swings, strains and other symptoms of hormonal changes.

Ayurvedic herbal medicine Turmeric is widely considered as a great healing agent in the Indian sub-continent. This herbal medicine is not only used as an external healing agent for injuries, wounds and cuts, it is also used as an internal healing agent to sooth and cure internal injuries. This ayurvedic medicine is perfectly suitable for human body and digestive system and in fact it is used as a food additive spice in Asian countries. It is being used as an effective ayurvedic medicine since ages. According to recent medical research studies, the active agent of turmeric is curcumin which helps in fighting against a variety of cancers and it is a strong anti carcinogen agent.

One can use Turmeric to successfully fight against and cure prostate cancer and it is also used to prevent breast cancer from spreading and infecting the lever. Since this ayurvedic medicine is healthy to use as a food ingredient, it can be taken regularly to attain proper health benefits.

World Diabetes Day

[14 November 2011]

World Diabetes Day raises global awareness of diabetes - its escalating rates around the world and how to prevent the illness in most cases. Started by the International Diabetes Federation (IDF) and WHO, the Day is celebrated on 14 November to mark the birthday of Frederick Banting who, along with Charles Best, was instrumental in the discovery of insulin in 1922, a life-saving treatment for diabetes patients.

WHO estimates that more than 346 million people worldwide have diabetes. This number is likely to more than double by 2030 without intervention.

Key elements for preventing diabetes and staying healthy are - Simple lifestyle changes -- including healthier diets, regular exercise (30 minutes five times per week) and a modest weight loss of five to seven percent. And you can cut your chances of getting diabetes by almost 60 percent.

What these simple changes in lifestyle could be ?
What is the best exercise suitable for Diabetes prevention ??
How to achieve the desired weight loss safely and permanantly ???

Ayurveda has provided right answer to these questions. In fact this is the theam of our Best seller e-book "Ayurvedic Cure of Diabetes"

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Have you ever wondered why we become sick or what is the end cause of disease? Understanding this is very profound and yet simple: once we understand the cause of disease we can begin heal. Ayurveda teaches us that all disease begins when we are living out of harmony with our environment. When we take in inappropriate impressions from our environment through any of our senses, we choose to weaken the body and create an internal environment which supports the creation of disease. We could disrupt our body's internal energy flow. The Ayurveda studies program offered teaches all the principles of living in harmony with the environment.
Healing through Ayurvedic Medicine involves all five senses. Through taste, we utilize proper diet and herbs. Through sight, we utilize proper color and beauty. Through smell, we utilize aromatherapy. Through sound, we utilize music and sound energies. Finally, through our skin we take in specially prepared herbal oils and receive ayurvedic massage (abhyanga). In addition to five sense therapy, Ayurveda advocates the periodic removal of accumulated toxins and food residues through specialized purification procedures called panchakarma.
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Holy Basil(Tulsi) - A Herb for Diabetics
Compounds in Holy Basil have been shown in clinical trials to nourish the pancreas and specifically help generate healthy new beta cells. These beta cells are the body's insulin-production factories, and insulin lowers blood sugar.
Holy Basil helps other cells in your body open up their receptor for insulin. This lightens the load on your liver and adrenal glands. You may also notice fewer cravings for sweets.

Antiaging Ayurvedic Herb- Amalaki
Who would ever have thought what a little, green fruit approximately the size of a tennis ball can achieve? Amalaki which is occasionally known as Amla is a fruit that is grown in India beneath the famous Himalayan Mountains. Modern study indicates Amalaki to be one of the most encouraging botanicals that bring about cellular rejuvenation, augment vitality and improve immune capabilities. Tales abound regarding the therapeutic properties of Amalaki and its incredible antiaging benefits.Within the Hindu folklore, Amalaki is reserved within a station of honor. The fruit has long been reported in the Ayurveda or as it is frequently identified as Indian medicine arts. It’s listed within the pages as a tremendously robust rejuvenator possessing the gift to purify the human body and to effectively oppress illness.

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Ayurvedic Natural Antibiotic
Long before modern medicine came out with the magical powers of antibiotics, ancient Indian system of medicine Ayurveda have benefited from Kalmegha, a natural antibiotic.

Kalmegha is technically called Andrographis peniculata. The herb is also called Kalpanath and Kiryat. Kalmegha is bitter in taste and unpalatable. But it has a myriad medicinal properties including its ability to fight leprosy, boost immunity, kill bacteria, viruses and other pathogens, control fevers of various origins including malarial and typhoid, keep the stomach in good health, and provide relief from haemorrhoids.

Of late, research has been taken up on the medicinal properties of Kalmegha. The studies were centered around Kalmegha’s ability to kill cancer cells, reduce upper respiratory tract infections etc. There are also claims of Kalmegha improving the immunity in people living with HIV/AIDS.

Health Benefits of Trikatu
Trikatu is a special herbal combination of herbs to prevent obesity. Trikatu has anti-inflammatory properties and anti-helminthes. It helps in removing the worms from the body and thus improving digestion. Trikatu is a combination of natural herbs and is safe and effective. It helps maintain healthy digestion and removes toxins from the body. Trikatu helps rejuvenate your body cells and also helps prevent any infection from inflammation of the digestive organs.

Trikatu has natural anti-histamine and thus helps prevent infection and inflammation of the gastric mucosa. It prevents your body from an allergic reaction. It is safe to use the product for a long period of time, because it does not produce an adverse reaction. Regular intake of this product helps to increase your appetite. Trikatu inhibits the formation of gas and so it helps in proper digestion of food. The digested food is used by your cells to give you energy to carry out various activities.
Trikatu increases metabolic activity and the rapid absorption of nutrients. Trikuta is also a very good product for the bad odor from the mouth to treat. It helps to improve the taste of the mouth. Chew your food well in the mouth for effective digestion and absorption of food nutrients. Trikuta also helps maintain the normal flow of blood into your cells.

Trikatu works on your skin and very helpful to prevent any allergies. Trikatu keeps your face and your skin fresh and glowing.

MEDHYA HERBS IN AYURVEDA


Medhya herbs in Ayurveda include's:-

1)Brahmi (Bacopa monnieri)

2)Mandukaparni (Centella asiatica)

3)Shankapushpi (Convolvulus pluricaulis)

4)Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera)

5)Sarpagandha (Rauwolfia serpentina)

6)Jatamansi (Nardostachys jatamansi)

7)Vacha (Acorus calamus)

8)Yastimadhu (Liquorice)

9)Tribulus terrestris(Gokshura)

These herbs are mainly used in Ayurveda for treatment of mental diseases.These medicinal plants have wonderful action that can calm mind and it can also increase or decrease mental functions.Herbs such as Bacopa monnieri,Convolvulus pluricaulis, Centella asiatica increase's memory and the Rauwolfia serpentina,Withania somniferais used to calm patient.
Extracts of all these herbs are available here at - http://ayurveda-foryou.com/paypalstore/ghana.html

Excellent Ayurvedic Herbal treatments for acne scars


1. Sandalwood (Chandana) is best for all skin related problems. It maintains the glow of the skin. Sandal wood paste must be applied to your skin as a face pack till it dries out. After drying you it must be removed with help of cold water or with a soft towel dipped in cold water. Acne scars and dull skin can both be treated through this treatment.

2. Aloe Vera is an exceptionally beneficial herb with medicated values. This herb is well known as a natural home herbal remedy for removing acne scars. Cooling as well as the soothing affects of aloe vera helps a lot in revitalizing the skin. Mix aloe vera gel with essential oil and apply to your skin. This paste has antioxidants, anti-inflammatory and restorative properties that heal acne, reduces the acne scars, moisturizes the skin and restores it.

3. Mint Leaves are the most common and widely available herb. This herb is very well known as one of the best treatments for removing acne scars. For preparing a remedy with this herb you just have to pick around 10-12 fresh leaves and then press or squeeze the leaves to extract its juice. The juice of the leaves have all medicated values and healing properties that help in clearing your skin and help you get rid of acne scars .

4. Fenugreek (seeds of methi herb) also provide an excellent ayurvedic acne scar treatment. For preparing the medicinal solution you must first boil 1 liter water and add a small teaspoon of methi seeds. Once the water gets boiled you have to put it aside and let it cool. Apply it to your skin where there are acne scars. You must do this atleast for a week and see miraculous difference.

Cinnamon promotes weight and blood sugar control
Studies have shown that cinnamon, the common kitchen spice frequently sprinkled on breakfast oatmeal and included in sweet potato pie, lowers blood glucose levels. Along with the benefits that it brings to this area, additional testing and folklore say that cinnamon also has fat-burning properties that will aid in weight loss.

Published in 2003 in the journal Diabetes Care, a study concluded that in people with Type 2 diabetes, consuming daily low levels of cinnamon that is between 1 to 6 grams (or approximately 1 to 2 teaspoons) reduced blood sugar levels. How cinnamon effects this result is still to be determined but the study also showed that the results lasted in the individuals even as long as twenty days after ceasing to use cinnamon. In 2009, a Scandinavian study showed that in healthy individuals 3 grams of cinnamon per day lowered blood sugar levels after eating a meal. Higher insulin levels lead to less use of excess blood sugar (and sugar is stored in the body as fat), so a reduction in insulin after a meal is significant. If cinnamon can help control the level of blood sugar and, by offshoot, fat levels, then that is corroboration of what some have said regarding its weight loss potential.

Learn moreabout Cinnmon: http://ayurveda-foryou.com/ayurveda_herb/cinnamon.html

Cinnamon Helps Prevent Diabetes”

Several research studies are showing that cinnamon is able to help prevent diabetes. Cinnamon which is a common spice appears to regulate as well as prevent diabetes. Coming from the internal bark of the cinnamon tree, cinnamon has been used extensively for medicinal and culinary purposes. Traditionally cinnamon is used for treating congestion, colds and diarrhoea.

Recent studies discovered that it is high in antioxidants which experts believe will help it to reduce the speed of ageing as well as lower chronic disease risk.

In his book "Antidepressants, Antipsychotics, And Stimulants -- Dangerous Drugs on Trial," David W Tanton writes that "Not only does cinnamon activate essential enzymes in the body thus stimulating the receptors in the cells so they will respond more efficiently to insulin, but it also inhibits the enzymes responsible for deactivating ... causing insulin resistance."

Tanton further reveals that "Cinnamon bark actually contains calcium, chromium, copper, iodine, iron, manganese, phosphorus, potassium, zinc, and vitamins A, Bi, B2, and C, many of which are important for the prevention or treatment of diabetes."

The conclusion of reviewing eight studies carried out on human volunteers clearly showed that blood sugar levels were effectively reduced after meals and also in between meals by including cinnamon in the diet. It was also observed that cinnamon supplementation could lower diabetic complications.

One of the studies reviewed revealed that cinnamon had beated pharmaceuticals in effectiveness. The study which the "Journal of Diabetic Medicine," published showed that people supplemented with cinnamon had better blood sugar level improvement than those given conventional diabetic drugs.

ARJUNA ON HEART
Terminalia arjuna is an herb found in abundance in the Himalayan forests, Bengal, Bihar and Madhya Pradesh. The saponin glycosides found in this herb are responsible for an inotropic effect, meaning that the force with which the heart and other muscles contract is affected. The arteries are strengthened by its flavonoids and proanthocyanidins. This important herb also interacts with LDL cholesterol, accelerating its turnover in the liver and inhibiting its oxidation, thus contributing to cholesterol reduction in the body. Terminalia Arjuna has the potential to correct abnormalities in endothelial cells, those that line the interior of blood vessels. A study in 2003 indicates that it has beta-blocking activity. Terminalia has no toxicity, does not interact with drugs and has no contraindications.

Studies on this herb are very promising. In a 2002 double blind crossover study published in the Indian Heart Journal, 58 males diagnosed with ischemic heart disease were given either the standard medical treatment (isosorbide mononitrate, a blood vessel dilator), Terminalia Arjuna, or a placebo for one week. They were monitored for symptoms of angina (severe chest pain) during exercise. Terminalia reduced symptoms better than the placebo and was equal to the standard medical treatment.
Read more about Terminalia Arjuna here - http://ayurveda-foryou.com/ayurveda_herb/arjuna.html

Triphala hinders growth of pancreatic cancer cells
A new study from the University of Pittsburgh Cancer Institute suggests that a commonly used herbal supplement, triphala, has cancer-fighting properties that prevent or slow the growth of pancreatic cancer tumors implanted in mice. The study found that an extract of triphala, the dried and powdered fruits of three plants, caused pancreatic cancer cells to die through a process called apoptosis – the body’s normal method of disposing of damaged, unwanted or unneeded cells. This process often is faulty in cancer cells. Results of the study, abstract number LB-142, are being presented in a late-breaking session at the annual meeting of the American Association for Cancer Research, April 14-18, at the Los Angeles Convention Center.

Triphala, one of the most popular herbal preparations in the world, is used for the treatment of intestinal-related disorders. It is typically taken with water and thought to promote appetite and digestion and to increase the number of red blood cells.
Read moreand buy Triphala here - http://ayurveda-foryou.com/ayurveda_herb/triphala.html

Men Secret Health Issues
The popularity of Ayurvedic herbs for penis enlargement is increasing by leaps and bounds with each passing day. Shilajit, an Ayurvedic preparation, is extremely popular in countries such as the US and in the European countries. Several other herbal products such as Vrishya Vati etc. are available which help for both penis enlargement as well as a cure for impotence.

HERBS FOR DIABETES-
These are –
1.Saptrangi – Salacia oblonga
2.Vizaysaar – Pterocarpus marsupium
3.Gurmaar – Gymnema sylvestrae
4.Jamun – Syzigium cumini
5.Bilva Leaves- trees of Aegle marmelos
6.Karela – Momordica charanatia
7.Methi – Trigonella foenum graecum
8.Neem – Azadirachta indica
9.Tulsi – Ocimum office
10. Daruhaldi – Berberis aristata
11. Haridra – Curcuma longa
12. Sadabahar- Vinca rosea
13.Amla – Emblica officinalis


1. Saptrangi – Salacia oblonga
This is a fantastic remedy for diabetes. It is a hierarchy whose bark is effective popular scheming diabetes. It is extensively considered all the rage the western herbal schools, except clothed in Ayurveda it is living being worn because ages. The herb comprise been bring into being headed for comprise diabetes scheming properties.
2. Vijaysaar – Pterocarpus marsupium
This is a cumbersome hierarchy whose bark is self-same beneficial for diabetes. The bark of the hierarchy is ended hooked on a impassive flute afterward the flute is termed being “The miracle cure for diabetes”. a number of irrigate is reserved all the rage the impassive flute overnight in addition to is consumed beforehand daylight next to diabetes patients. The dye of the run changes headed for chocolate also flute is altered past more or less 1 month at what time the run dye does not change. Diabetes hold contains wring of bark of this miracle tree.
3. Gurmaar- Gymnema sylvestrae-
all the rage Hindi language, ‘Gur’ wealth darling after that ‘Maar’ entail Kill. Gurmaar wealth “The baby killer”. It is a wrap around with the intention of is acknowledged because ages clothed in Ayurveda for its baby scheming properties. topical studies illustrate with the intention of it contains Gymnemic acid molecules liable for its anti-diabetic action. They attach in the midst of glucose molecules popular the guts in addition to inhibit their entrance hooked on the blood stream. along these lines it is effective clothed in scheming baby levels.
4. Jamun – Syzigium cumini-
It is a accepted fruit hierarchy emergent mad popular plains of India. The seeds of this hierarchy are dried cheery with at that moment a powder is ended of them. The powder of the seeds of Jamun fruit is self-same effective popular scheming darling levels. It is contracting popular nibble which is contrary headed for sweet. whatever thing contracting popular nibble is of use for diseases caused via too much lovability comparable corpulence moreover diabetes.
5. Bilva – Aegle marmelos-
This hierarchy has three trees concurrently taking place its branches. whichever hierarchy who has recipe of three trees is well thought-out clothed in Ayurveda to the same degree divine then seat of lady Brahma, Vishnu with Mahesh. The trees are untaken all Mondays popular Shiva temples. This fruit of this hierarchy is beneficial popular short-tempered bowel syndrome. The trees of Bilva are first-rate for diabetes. The trees are dried also powder is ended with varied together with additional herbs for top results.
6. Karela – Momordica charanatia-
The juice of this fruit is a miracle popular treating moreover preventing diabetes also its complications. 30 ml of Karela juice all daylight vacant stomach is optional for greatest results. It bottle be in use down by Amla juice for outshine results, because Amla is full popular unaffected vitamin C next is additionally effective popular diabetes. Karela contains organic chromium along with additional micronutrients, but Amla is and creamy popular organic anti-oxidants comparable vitamin C moreover others.
7. Methi- Trigonella-foenum-graecum-
because ages Fenugreek is living being worn in the function of a medicine popular India, Egypt, medium east also additional antediluvian civilizations. Fenugreek has first-rate properties headed for convey baby levels when fine in the same way as cholesterol levels underneath control. The seed powder of Methi is worn headed for worse timetabled darling levels. It bottle be varied together with herbs described above.
8. Neem – Azadirachta indica-
Azadirachtin, Nimbin after that Nimbidin are effective alkaloids bring into being all the rage neem. They ham it up not solitary for instance blood purifiers except what’s more wheel baby raze to the ground self-same effectively. Neem is what’s more of use popular countless skin diseases comparable eczema, psoriasis, rashes. The skin diseases connected in the midst of diabetes too counter headed for this herb quickly. It moreover helps all the rage defrayal missing the blocked channels furthermore maintains the current of fury commencing in the liver furthermore improves liver function.
9.Tulsi – Ocimum sanctum-
It is commonly recognized in the same way as ‘The Holy Basil’ is a sacred bury according headed for Hindu mythology. ancestors clothed in India worship this bury being it has tremendous medical properties. expected manipulate of trees of this bury wheel blood baby levels self-same effectively. It is moreover of use all the rage countless types of cancers, viral furthermore bacterial infections, sore throat, cough after that chill etc.
10.Daruhaldi – Berberis aristata-
This is a bulb emergent generally popular South India. The roots of this herb are in use outdated as well as grinded well. The herb powder stimulates pancreas headed for pump extra insulin hooked on blood. It too helps clothed in preventing insulin resistance amongst cells. It acts in the same way as a waterway icebreaker for glucose hooked on the cells. This moreover purifies the blood.
11.Haridra- Curcuma longa-
This is self-same accepted herb as well as is usually called Turmeric. Turmeric powder is an effective anti-allergic, anti-cancer, anti-inflammatory after that individual of the greatest unaffected anti-diabetic. It factory popular the similar route in the same way as Berberis aristata. It helps clothed in purifying the blood, waterway opener, helps popular sinking the insulin resistance after that along these lines creation the street for glucose hooked on the cells.
12.Sadabahar- Vinca rosea-
It is each time peak plant, emergent just about popular all accommodation clothed in India. It is recognized to the same degree periwinkle clothed in English. The bury contains self-same precious alkaloids ‘ vincristine’ after that ‘vinblastine’ which are worn clothed in allopathic medicine being anti-cancer injections. The herb trees are self-same beneficial all the rage scheming the diabetes. The herb trees are assorted by additional herbs described higher than headed for find nice results.
13.Amla – Emblica officinalis –
Amla is world’s richest organic find of vitamin C along with is nature’s super anti-oxidant. individual amla contains 30 era extra vitamin C than an orange. It prevents ageing along with thus delayes the inception of complications of diabetes. Amla powder, Amla juice bottle be consumed frequently headed for progress the settlement all the rage diabetes as a consequence additional diseases.

‘Rasayanas’ can stretch life span
(deccan Chronical Report)

Hyderabad, July 10: Rasayanas or herbal preparations mentioned in the ancient ayurvedic texts — Charaka Samhita and Sushruta Samhita — are capable of fighting ageing and increasing longevity, reveals a pioneering experiment on the common fruit fly, Drosophila.
Drosophila and human beings share 13,601 common genes and most of the experimental results obtained from the fruit fly can be extrapolated on humans. Ayurveda doctors at the Government Ayurveda Medical College, Mysore, have proved that the life span of Drosophila can be extended by almost half through administration of ayurvedic rasayana. Doctors from Uppsala University, Sweden, also collaborated in the work.
The life span of Drosophila melanogaster increased between 51 and 55 per cent when it was fed with a standard rasayana preparation, suitably adapted for insects.
A Drosophila fly normal lives for minimum of 40 days to maximum of 53 days. In the experiment, the life span of the fruit fly shot up to 81 days to 91 days. Every fruit fly fed with the ayurvedic rasayana had an increased life span of minimum 28 days.
“Rasayana' forms the seventh of eight subdivisions of ayurveda’s earliest extant text, Charaka Samhita. Sushruta says rasayan ‘reverses naturally occurring senility’ (swabhava vyadhi nivarana) and so ‘prevents death’ (marana nivarana), further indicating that rasayanas are considered ‘Special herbal formulations’ conceived through prolonged consideration of their components,” said Dr S. Priyadarshini, the assistant professor.

12 Indian foods that cut fat

You don't have to acquire a taste for olive oil, seaweed or soya to maintain a low-fat, healthy diet. Indian cuisine can be healthy too, if it's cooked with oil and ingredients that take care of your heart and health. Ayurveda suggests you include all tastes - sweet, sour, salty, pungent, bitter and astringent - in at least one meal each day, to help balance unnatural cravings. Here are 12 foods/ingredients that can help you lose weight and gain health:


Turmeric: Curcumin, which is the active component of turmeric, is now an object of research thanks to its properties that suggest they may help to turn off certain genes that cause scarring and enlargement of the heart. Regular intake of curcumin may also help to reduce low-density lipoprotein (LDL) or bad cholesterol and high blood pressure, increase blood circulation and prevent blood clotting thereby helping to prevent heart attack.
Cardamom: The Indian spice is known as a thermogenic herb, one that increases metabolism and helps burn body fat. In Ayurveda, cardamom is considered one of the best digestive aids and is believed to soothe the digestive system and help the body process other foods more efficiently.
Chillies: Foods containing chillies are considered to be as foods that burn fat. Chillies contain capsaicin that helps in increasing the metabolism. Capsaicin is a thermogenic food, so it causes the body to burn extra calories for 20 minutes after you eat the chillies.
Curry leaves: Incorporating curry leaves into your daily diet can also help with your weight loss plan. These leaves are known to flush out fat and toxins, thereby reducing fat deposits that are stored in the body, as well as reducing bad cholesterol levels. If you are overweight, incorporate eight to 10 curry leaves into your diet daily. Chop them finely and mix them into a drink, or sprinkle them over a meal.
Garlic: One of the most effective fat-burning foods, garlic contains the sulphur compound allicin which has anti-bacterial effects and helps reduce cholesterol and unhealthy fats.
Mustard oil: The pungent-tasting oil has low saturated fat as compared to other cooking oils. It basically consists of fatty acid, oleic acid, erucic acid and linoleic acid. It has antioxidant and cholesterol-reducing properties and is good for the heart. It is also loaded with essential vitamins.
Cabbage: Raw or cooked cabbage inhibits the conversion of sugar and other carbohydrates into fat. Hence, it is of great value in weight reduction.
Moong dal: The bean sprouts contain rich quantities of Vitamin A, B, C and E and are an excellent source of many minerals, such as calcium, iron and potassium. The dal is recommended as a food replacement in many slimming programmes, as it has a very low fat content. It is a rich source of protein and fiber, which helps lower blood cholesterol level. The high fiber content yields complex carbohydrates, which aid digestion, are effective in stabilising blood sugar and prevent its rapid rise after meal consumption.
Honey: It is a home remedy for obesity. Honey mobilises the extra deposited fat in the body allowing it to be utilised as energy for normal functions. One should start with about 10 grams or a tablespoon, taken with hot water early in the morning.
Buttermilk: Leave cola, drink buttermilk. The traditional homemade buttermilk is the somewhat sour, residual fluid that is left after butter is churned. The probiotic food contains just 2.2 grams of fat and about 99 calories, as compared to whole milk that contains 8.9 grams fat and 157 calories. Regular intake of buttermilk provides the body with all essential nutrients and does not add many fats and calories to the body. It is thus helpful in weight loss.
Millets: Fiber-rich foods such as millets - jowar, bajra, ragi, etc - absorb cholesterol and help increase the secretion of the bile that emulsifies fats.
Cinnamon and cloves: Used extensively in Indian cooking, the spices have been found to improve the function of insulin and to lower glucose, total cholesterol, LDL and triglycerides in people with type 2 diabetes.
Eisha Sarkar[Mumbai Mirror]
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You can read more about weight management by Ayurveda & Yoga in our ebook - 'Losing weight with Ayurveda and Yoga'

Ayurveda? For My Thyroid? What Is It & What Does It Have to Do with Me?
Post Published: 02 September 2010
Author: Dear Thyroid
Category: Ayurveda? For My Thyroid? What Is It & What Does It Have to Do with Me?, Guest Bloggers
This post currently has 3 responses. Leave a comment


I’m always interested in the following question: How can I revive my thyroid beyond what is offered by conventional medicine? Let’s toss around this question together as part of integrating western medicine with Eastern wisdom traditions such as Ayurveda and Traditional Chinese Medicine.

Often the integration part become arcane and my eyes glaze over as I read monotonous tombs of information on these ancient systems. So, let’s try to keep this lively and accessible.

Today: Ayurveda, or “knowledge of life,” — an ancient healing system that acts as a sister science to yoga. I’m a yoga teacher but not an Ayurvedic Physician – please keep that in mind as you read my words. I have been a student of yoga for 30+ years, and a student of Ayurveda for only 10 years. Ayurveda is based on understanding your constitution and imbalances, with the goal of manifesting your optimal health and wellbeing but customized to you and your uniqueness.

OK, but why is Ayurveda actually interesting to me, a 43-year-old mom with no free time and little patience for an archaic system of healing? Well, Ayurveda initially captured my attention because it fills a gap we encounter in Western medicine: Ayurveda actually engages with not simply the medical science but also with the nature, scope and purpose of life. Ayurveda’s basic tenet is that the purpose of life is to express divinity in our daily experience.

Hmmm, say more.

Ayurveda believes that the original cause of disease is forgetting our true nature, as my current guide, Jessie Holland, puts it. With Ayurveda, our goal is to keep our body healthy so we can fulfill our dharma or purpose. This happens with reprioritizing the environment, philosophically, and also balancing the five basic elements (air, water, ether, fire, earth); or put more specifically, with herbs, food, how you eat, how you perceive stress and configure your life.

Let’s circle back to the practical info on the thyroid and what Ayurveda offers.

One Ayurvedic herb I use a lot in my practice is ashwagandha, which regulates both the adrenals and the thyroid. It is known as an adrenal double adaptogen, meaning that it helps tonify your cortisol levels – so that your cortisol doesn’t get too high or too low. Ashwadandha can make your thyroid make more thyroid hormone, and in folks who take thyroid aumentation, particularly Synthroid, I recommend starting with a quarter- or half-dose.

What about iodine? Here’s one of my favorite Ayurvedic therapies for those with hypothyroidism: bladderwrack (or as I like to call it: bladderwhack). What’s especially thrilling about bladderwrack is that it’s TONIFYING, meaning that it not only lifts your thyroid function – it acts in an adaptogenic fashion. Here are more details on bladderwrack, paraphrased from my favorite online medical journal, Wikipedia: Bladderwrack helps women with abnormal menstrual cycling, at doses of 700-1400 mg/day, and has been demonstrated to decrease estradiol levels (so it helps correct estrogen dominance, referred to in my previous posts). Care must be taken in people with hyperthyroidism – excess doses can cause tremor, increased pulse, high blood pressure.

Another herb is suggested for some with hypothyroidism: shilajit, which is considered to be divine nectar given to mankind to live youthfully. Shilajit increases our vitality when it has withered as a result of stress and anxiety. While it is literally translated as an herb that allows you to conquer mountains and destroy weakness, more physiologically, it helps with movement of minerals – specifically calcium, phosphorus and magnesiu, which is often derailed in thyroid dysfunction.

Some of the Ayurvedic texts are rather impenetrable. Here’s an example from Textbook of Ayurveda by Vasant Lad, noted Ayurvedic scholar and Director of the Ayurvedic Institute in Albuquerque, New Mexico (note: agni refers to your “fire” or “radiant energy”):

“Jatru agni. There are two schools of thought about jatru agni. One says this refers to urdhva (upper) jatru granthi (the thyroid gland), which maintains metabolism. Another says it is adha (lower) jatru granthi (the thymus gland), which maintains immunity. I like to make it simple and say jatru agni refers to both. These glands of the endocrine system are part of majja dhatu, so they are related to the chakra system. Jatru agni in the thyroid is important for regulating cellular metabolic activity. The thyroid is a bridge between bhuta agni and the seven tissues, maintaining the functional integrity of the bhuta agni and dhatu agni. The agni present within the thyroid relates to T3 and T4 hormones and it kindles agni at the cellular level. Cellular metabolic activities are governed by jatru agni and, if jatru agni in the thyroid is sluggish, a person’s metabolism becomes slow and they easily put on weight. If jatru agni is hyperactive, a person loses weight at the beginning, but the increased appetite can make the person eat a lot and their weight can vary. If there are certain repressed emotions, such as grief, or sadness, these can also impair the function of the thyroid gland.”

Huh? I get the part about the repressed emotions, and love that aspect of Ayurveda – that undigested emotions result in disease – but the stuff on jatru, bhuta and dhatu agni is completely opaque. Someone explain it to me, please.

In Ayurveda, here are the foods that are good for those of us with thyroid problems: old rice, barley, mung dal, cucumber, and milk products are recommended (assuming you’re not allergic). Sour and heavy substances are contraindicated.

Another favorite recommendation from Ayurveda, which sends me into a happy dance, is coconut oil. According to Ayurveda, coconut oil offers promise today to sufferers of hypothyroidism and slow metabolism. Fatty acid chains in coconut oil, known as medium chain fatty acids (MCFA) or medium chain triglycerides (MCTs), offer worthy health benefits and not found more abundantly in nature outside coconut oil. For my hypothyroid friends, coconut oil may help rev up your sluggish metabolism. I drizzle one tablespoon on my vegetables at lunch, and use it to cook. I especially like Spectrum’s spray coconut oil for cooking.

It’s been a rapid tour of what Ayurveda offers your thyroid, and just the very tip of the iceberg, but hopefully this post will have you thinking outside of the box about other ways of tonifying your thyroid.

Written by, Dr. Sara Gottfried

Read more about Ayurvedic management of thyroid in our ebook - Ayurvedic Management of thyroid Disorders.

Sinusitis is just not a simple headache that you may experience occasionally. It is an inflammation of the mucous membrane in the sinus cavities behind the forehead, cheekbones and between and behind the eyes. While an occasional attack is understandable, there are many people who suffer from chronic sinusitis. The reasons could be a weak immune system, environmental pollution, allergies caused by pollen, wheat and dairy products, or intolerance to strong fragrances and perfumes.

Miracle Herbs:
While severe cases require the administration of antibiotics, you cannot use them for a lifetime. The best way to stave off recurrent sinus attacks is to boost the immune system by including some miracle foods in your diet. Some of these are:

Ginger: Ginger is critical in fighting colds, coughs, sinus and bronchial infections. Since it has antioxidants, ginger inhibits the formation of inflammatory compounds and helps to reduce swelling and pain.

Black pepper: It is very effective in preventing bacterial infections in the mouth, colon, digestive system and urinary tract. In fact, it disinfects foods in which it is added and infuses them with its protective properties. A concoction prepared with black pepper, clove, ginger, tulsi leaves and cinnamon, can serve as an effective
remedy for sinusitis. You can add some honey to it for flavour.

Pimpli: Pimpli is a traditional Ayurvedic herb sourced from roots and fruits of the pimpli plant. It helps to relieve cough, cold and sinusitis. It is also useful to treat chronic bronchitis, asthma and diseases of the spleen.
Combination of powders of these three herbs is called "Trikatu choorna" and is very useful in these conditions.
You can get it here - http://ayurveda-foryou.com/paypalstore/choorna.html

Growing Basil For Its Excellent Health, Medicinal Benefits and Ayurvedic Remedies
Basil is also known as “Sacred Tulsi” or “Holy Basil”. It is cultivated and known for around 5000 years. The tropical regions of Asia, Iran and India were the producers and consumers of basil for a long time till it became a popular herb thanks to the extremely beneficial properties of basil.

Brief meditative exercise helps cognition

Brief meditative exercise helps cognition
Read more about Yoga(meditative exercise) here - http://ayurveda-foryou.com/yoga/yoga.html

Greatly Relieve Your Daily Stress with Tulsi Tea
(NaturalNews) Tulsi tea originated in India and the tropical regions of Asia over 5,000 years ago. This herbal wonder is respected and honored for its rich antioxidant and adaptogenic properties, both of which are beneficial to reducing stress and promoting mental clarity. Commonly referred to as Holy Basil, this sacred plant is a principle herb in India's holistic health practice of Ayurveda.

Ayurved sure cure for heart ailments: US experts
Times News Network

Indraprasth - Medical experts in the US have turned to
Ayurved after findings that India's alternative system
of healing can make a dent in the heart attack rates.

Baffled by the fact that enormous resources and latest
medical technology have failed to lower the incidence of
cardio-vascular diseases, they have come here to explore
possibilities of productive research in herbal medicine.

"We are bringing the technology to promote the medicine
system of an ancient civilisation," says Robert
Schneider, one of the 15 American experts currently
participating in a workshop along with the Ayurved
practitioners here.

What brought the focus on the Indian healing system was a
paper in Stroke, the journal of the American Heart
Association, which claimed that with meditation one could
open up the clogged heart arteries.

Global Ayurveda Summit

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: The Confederation of Indian Industry (CII), in association with the Ayush (Department of Ayurveda, Yoga and Naturopathy, Unani, Sidha and Homoeopathy), Union Government and the State Government will organise a global ayurveda summit from March 24 to 26 at Hotel Le Meridien in Kochi. The event will have three components; an international conference, exposition and a focused business to business meeting platform.
The conference is the first major international leadership forum with the theme, ‘Global Health Challenges: Ayurveda solutions’, which is expected to have a participation of over 500 industry leaders and experts from India and abroad.
For more information on the summit and registration, log on to www.globalayurvedasummit.in

Indian bitter melon may harbour breast cancer cure

Washington, DC: An extract from bitter melon, a vegetable common in India and known as 'karela' in Hindi, helps trigger a chain of events that kills breast cancer cells and prevents them from multiplying, claims an Indian-origin researcher at Saint Louis University.

Ratna Ray, PhD., professor in the department of pathology at Saint Louis University and lead researcher, said she was surprised that the extract from the bitter melon she cooks in stir fries inhibits the growth of breast cancer cells.

"To our knowledge, this is the first report describing the effect of bitter melon extract on cancer cells," Ray said. "Our result was encouraging. We have shown that bitter melon extract significantly induced death in breast cancer cells and decreased their growth and spread."

Triphala for Cancer patients
Recently, a human clinical research study on an Ayurvedic formulation Triphala Choorna was conducted at Vydehi Institute of Oncology and Research center.

The formulation used is an oral rinsing solution with water and honey. It proved to be effective in treating oral mucosistis (inflammation and ulceration that occurs in the mouth of cancer patients undergoing chemo or radiation therapy.

Method of usage
5gm (01 Tsp.) of Triphala fine powder was mixed in 200ml of water and boiled. The decoction was cooled to room temperature and one teaspoon of honey was mixed with it. The patients were encouraged to rinse vigorously for at least 30 seconds and retain the decoction in the mouth for 3-5 minutes before spitting/swallowing.

Conclusion
The patients who were on regular oral rinse with Triphala did not produce mucositis above grade two until the end of radiotherapy and chemotherapy. This has helped them continue radiotherapy and chemotherapy sessions without taking any treatment breaks.

Ayurvedic Cooking
Gourmets groan when asked to switch to a health diet as it usually means giving up yummy, tasty stuff for bland food. But not anymore. Ayurveda teaches that you can be healthy even while indulging your taste buds. You can make mouth-watering dishes that are nutritious and healthy too. Most health problems are caused by an improper diet. In Ayurveda every food has its own taste (rasa), a heating or cooling energy (virya) and a digestive consequence (vikapa). You upset your system if you combine foods of different nature such as fruits with milk. Ayurveda teaches a rational way to prepare food keeping in mind the dietary need of the individual based on his or her body type and prakurti (body constitution of vata, pitta and kapha).
The focus of Ayurveda cooking is healing, prevention and health care. Food prepared in Ayurveda style also reduces stress and helps cure heart ailments, diabetes and asthma. Cloves ease toothache, fennel with dry coriander reduces acidity, ginger shoos away the cold and turmeric has antioxidant properties.

Indo-Swedish health week to start from tomorrow

INDIA TO OFFER EXPERTISE IN YOGA AND GENERIC DRUGS
The Indo Swedish week, to commemorate the first anniversary of the signing of the MoU between the two countries,is being observed from 1-5 th February. Ms. Maria Larsson, Hon’ble Minister of Elderly Care and Public Health, Government of the Kingdom of Sweden would leading a delegation.She would also be accompanied by Ms. Karin Johansson, State Secretary to the Minister for Health and Social Affairs,and around 70 delegates from Sweden. The health week would be inaugurated jointly by the Union Minister of Health and Family Welfare Shri Ghulam Nabi Azad and the Swedish Minister on Monday .

The two countries have their traditional strengths which they would like to share. India would like to offer its expertise in traditional medicines like yoga and ayurveda as well as good quality and cheap generic drugs; while Sweden would like to offer its expertise in the field of diagnostics and medical education.

The two countries have identifed common areas of collaboration for which thematic workshops in six fields viz antimicrobial resistance, pharmaceuticals, medical research, health policy research, alcohol policy and adolescent health is being organised at the National Institute of Health and family Wellfare on the 2nd February. Activities for the week are planned at Hyderabad, Bangaluru and Mumbai.

Invite for US experts to learn Ayurveda
Anuradha Mascarenhas(Expressindia.com)

Pune The Union Health Ministry has invited a team of US-based medical experts on January 27 to encourage Indo-US ayurvedic research and give them an opportunity to understand ayurveda and its practice. The government will also send a team of ayurveda experts to US where they will impart lessons of yoga, meditation and oil massage treatments.
The five-day visit will explore the possibilities of introducing evidence-based ayurveda, yoga and meditation in the United States medical education, research and patient care areas and promote research between the two countries under the National Institutes of Health (NIH) funding.

Dr Navin Shah, former president of American Association Physicians of Indian Origin, told The Indian Express via email, that the Health Ministry has invited top medical experts and researchers to New Delhi. Shah will lead the delegation — Dr David Eisenberg, Harvard Medical School, Dr Anastasia Rowland-Seymour, Johns Hopkins University, Dr Benjamin Kligler, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Dr Aviad Haramati, Georgetown University, Dr Victoria Maizes, University of Arizona and Dr Anne Nedrow, Oregon Health and Science University.

“Under Complementary Alternative Medicine (CAM), in some of the US medical schools, information is provided on herbal medicine, yoga, meditation, and massage therapy. However, no recognised course on ayurveda is taught in the US medical schools,” said Shah.

The presentations will focus on benefits of ayurveda in five major diseases and benefits of five herbs (simple or in combination) in treating various diseases. A special lecture will deal with the role of diet in both health and diseases.

“The team will scrutinise 10 proposals put forth by ayurveda experts for joint Indo-US research. This will help Indian ayurveda institutions and faculties to interact with their US counterparts for research collaborations,” said Shah.

“The National Institute of Health, USA, has also evinced interest in such joint projects,” Shah said adding the delegation will visit Ayurved Medical College and Hospital in Jaipur. India has 150 ayurveda colleges; 50 post-graduate ayurveda institutions; 70,000 students; 10,000 faculty members; and 3,000 ayurveda hospitals.

The delegation will also visit one ayurveda pharma factory to understand the drug formulation, production, preservation, safety, and research areas.

Two ayurveda professors from India will visit six US institutions and provide evidence-based lectures to medical students, faculty members, and the practicing physicians.

Food and mood: Awareness can lead to healthier path

Cindy Sutter Camera Staff Writer
Posted: 01/12/2010 10:52:40 AM MST

If you made a New Year's resolution, chances are it had to do with your how you eat -- the perennial No. 1 change people say they would like to make in surveys.

And chances are that almost two weeks into that resolution, you may be wavering a bit when it comes to your healthy intentions. Maybe you feel cranky, irritable and hungry, even though you're eating healthy food and the right number of calories. Or perhaps you just don't feel satisfied by what you're eating, even though you're stomach is full.

That could be because you haven't stuck the right balance between food and mood.

"It's kind of like the chicken and the egg," says Esther Cohen, a nutritionist and holistic wellness coach. "They both have a profound effect on one another."

Nutritionists describe the food-mood cycle of the typical American diet thusly: The day starts with coffee and a high-carbohydrate breakfast, which leads to a mid-day crash, and a hurried lunch, often with more carbs and caffeine. A mid-afternoon crash is fixed with a bar or candy, the energy from which dissipates just as the harried worker arrives home to interacting with the family's similar cycle. That might lead to a glass of wine, a quick dinner and the urge for something sweet afterward.

It's this real estate bubble-like relationship with food that led to the cabinet currently being full of whole grains and the fridge full of fruits and veggies. Yet, perhaps that great feeling you were expecting hasn't quite arrived.

Quality food

Cheer up. Every school of nutrition agrees that whole grains, fruits, vegetables, protein and healthy fats are the building blocks of healthy, sustainable eating habits, whereas processed foods never will be.

"The more refined a product is, the more it has been altered from its whole or original state, the more rapidly it, too, is processed within us, causing a greater insulin imbalance and a greater stress on neurotransmitters, which are what affect our mood," Cohen says.

You just need to figure out the best way to consume that bounty of whole foods.

First they should taste good.

Nutritionist Jennifer Workman of the The Balanced Approach in Boulder, combines western nutrition and sports medicine concepts with Ayurveda, the 5,000-year-old Indian nutritional framework that takes into account with a person's individual constitution and the seasons of the year. It also stresses the taste and enjoyment of food.

"Is your diet balanced? Do you have all six tastes," Workman asks. "If you're only eating sweets, you're going to set yourself up for cravings."

The six tastes, according to Ayurveda are sweet, sour, salty, pungent, bitter and astringent.

"Most people know when they sit down to a decent meal," Workman says, adding that such a meal would be a healthy protein such as tofu or chicken, vegetables, good spices and flavors, finished with a cup of tea.

"If (people are) grabbing bars, eating the wrong things at the wrong season, it sets them up for cravings and feeling out of balance."

Listening to your body

Understanding your own body and how food affects it is key to finding balance in your diet.

"Everyone is different," Workman says. "There has yet to be the one diet that's going to fix everybody. Individuation is very important, finding the right balance for a person."

Finding that balance is made easier working with a professional who has knowledge of food and can spot trends in your personal habits, but you can learn to listen to your body and draw some conclusions yourself.

Feeling the effect of a particular type of food is an intuitive part of being human that has been lost to busy schedules, food marketers and diet books, not to mention the siren call of concentrated sugars our evolutionary ancestors never encountered.

Cohen, who also is director of Seven Bowls School of Nutrition, Nourishment and Healing, says she frequently has clients who tout a particular nutrition book they've just read.

"They're so removed from having any type of body sense," she says. "It's really wonderful ... to begin to experience how our foods feel ... as opposed to reading (how to eat.)"

Cohen says it's important to eat slowly and consciously.

"Maybe the food is perfect, but if I'm eating standing up and talking on my cell phone, I'm not getting the benefit," she says.

She recounts the story of one client who ate a lot of fast-food burgers.

"Once he had to sit down and chew, he discovered he really didn't like them," she says.Nutrition Counselor Debbie Sarfati-Steinbock says one key to body awareness is noticing the effect of a food on your mood, energy and level of cravings afterward.

"When we evaluate how a food is, we can't only evaluate it on taste," she says. "That would be like walking into a store (and saying) 'This sweater is soft. I want it,' without looking at the price or size or color."

She says many people who complain of low energy are spiking up their energy with caffeine and sugar, so that they don't know what healthy energy feels like.

"They're used to so much artificial energy," she says. "(Healthy energy) is not elation and depression. It's a much more consistent type of energy."

A good start

How, then, to get on that healthy path and to figure out what works for you?

Sarfati-Steinbock advises starting with breakfast. She has clients try a high-carbohydrate, whole-grain type of breakfast one day and a high-protein breakfast such as a vegetable omelet the next.

She says which is best depends on individual metabolism. Clients are asked to pay attention to how they feel by lunchtime. If that bowl of oatmeal lasts till lunch, they should stick with that approach. If they feel better with more protein, fewer carbs and some fat, that the path to stay on.

One of her clients, Rachel Smith, who lives in Westminster, noticed a big change in the way she felt when she started eating according to Sarfati-Steinbock's advice. Smith originally sought out the nutritionist when her then-6-year-old son was experiencing behavior problems. In the process of changing his diet, the whole family got a nutrition makeover, mainly adding more fruits and vegetables.

Before changing her diet, Smith says she had problems such as skin rashes.

"I would get headaches. I felt tired, grouchy and kind of overwhelmed," she says.

Smith tried the breakfast test, and realized she felt much better eating a higher protein breakfast. A typical breakfast now might be a large plate of sauteed kale with a couple of eggs cooked in.

"I noticed I had more energy when I ate protein and vegetables in the morning," Smith says.

She also found that she ate less during the day and felt more satisfied. The higher carbohydrate breakfast left her wanting more.

"I'd open the cabinets, sort of looking for something," she says.

Now she eats her carbs later in the day when she wants to wind down.

"I might eat oatmeal as a bedtime snack," she says.

Cohen says paying attention to what we eat can be life changing. She asks clients to tell her what foods make them feel good and then suggests similar foods to help boost their system.

"Often the food chooses us, rather than us choosing the food."

Take Help of Ayurveda

It's a week and more into 2010 – what's happened to your New Year's health resolutions? We usually make the same ones year after year: to lose weight, exercise more, stop smoking, etc. And we find that most of our resolutions have fallen by the wayside in a month or two.

So to help break that habit, we have borrowed from ayurveda, a science of medicine from ancient India that has been in practice for more than 6,000 years. This form of medicine seeks to re-establish the harmony between the mind, body and environment. Ayurveda's premise is that keeping this balance maintains health, and, conversely, a loss of balance leads to physical ailments

Online Ayurveda Courses

There are many alternative healing, and holistic healing educational programs out there. From Massage Therapy, Reiki, Aromatherapy and Oriental Medicine – the list is endless.

However, Ayurveda – the health system from VEDAS and India is still catching on. Besides Deepak Chopra, Dr. Vasant Lad, and California College of Ayurveda, there are still no big Ayurveda Course providers.

This is why we are SO excited to bring you the past, present and future of AYURVEDA through website- http://ayurveda-foryou.com

Ayurvedic bhasma oldest form of nanotechnology

The bhasmas' used in Ayurveda for treatment of various diseases for the past several centuries is the oldest form of nanotechnology, said head of solid state chemistry section at Bhabha Atomic Research Centre (BARC), Mumbai, Prof AK Tyagi.

Brahmi herb can treat Alzheimer's

[IANS6 December 2009]

Researchers are coming by evidence that herbs like brahmi, associated with the ayurveda system of medicine, can help ward off Alzheimer's

Although what exactly causes Alzheimer's is not known, sufferers experience inflammation of the brain, deposits of beta amyloid, traces of heavy metals and signs of oxidative stress.

Brahmi, a semi-aquatic plant, acts on all of these, said Con Stough, director of the National Institute of Complementary Medicine (NICM) involved in trials underway at Swinburne University of Technology Brain Sciences Institute (BSI).

"It has an anti-inflammatory effect, is an antioxidant and collates and removes heavy metals and beta amyloid," he said.

Two trials with a brahmi extract called CDRI08, conducted over 90 days, have shown improvements in working memory, particularly spatial memory accuracy.

Top 10 Lifestyle Changes Your Heart Will Appreciate

1. Skip the elevator and use the stairs instead. Just start with one flight. Soon, you'll be ready for two.

2. Start parking your car at the far end of the parking lot. The short walk everyday to and from the store or school helps your heart.

3. If you ride a bus or subway, get off a stop before your destination. Walk the rest of the way.

4. If you can, spend a few minutes of your lunch break taking a stroll outside work or school. It will also help boost your energy levels after lunch.

5. Housework that is done vigorously counts as exercise. Vacuming or mopping can be a real workout!

6. If you have a yard, mowing the lawn, pulling weeds, and raking leaves are also chores that count as exercise.

7. If you have a dog, take it for brisk walks twice a day, and benefit your heart and his!

8. If you have a family, schedule an after-dinner walk. It’s great to help digestion and to start clearing the mind to get ready for bed.

9. Include oats into your daily routine. Just a cup of cooked oatmeal will provide wonderful cholesterol-reducing benefits. (Be sure to check out this month’s special feature on oats!)

10. Try to laugh! Laughter helps release pent up stress and has been proven keep your heart healthy and happy.

Brahmi and Ashwagandha

Inflammation often begins in the mind, for when we create a hard-driving, goal-oriented mental environment and begin to ignore our body’s need for good food, rest, exercise, and a regular yoga practice, we start overworking—and overheating. We know the warning signs but stubbornly ignore them, listening instead to the inner critic that commands us to accomplish more. Brahmi and ashwagandha are herbs that can help. According to ayurveda, they calm the mind without sedating it, leaving it clear, grounded, and inspired. And ashwagandha is a tonic that keeps the body strong and counters overexhaustion. It also treats a variety of ailments that result from depletion: arthritis, nerve pain, and infertility.

Permanent CURE of Diabetes is possible......................

According to nature therapy, diabetes is the result of a problem in the

digestive system. This can be overcome easily, and within a short

duration of time, with regular practice of yoga, change in life style,

daily routine and diet control. Generally, people engaged in sedentary

work suffer from this disease. The insulin produced from the pancreas

reduces both in quality and quantity, resulting in a high sugar level,

and the excess glucose flows out through the urine.

Cure for diabetes:

The patient should be given proper rest and should take a controlled

diet. The following should be kept in mind at the time of treating

diabetes. The patient should be stress free. The digestive system should

function normally and the secondary diseases caused due to diabetes

should also be treated and controlled.

Yogic cure for diabetes:

* Practice of Kunjal Kriya, Naouli, and Shankh Prakshalan is

beneficial in this case. (For detailed instructions of these practices

please see seperate articles on these topics.)

* Uddiyan Bandh cures digestion related problems.

* Practice of Kati Chakrasana, Ardhamatysendrasana, Vajrasana,

Bhujangasana, Paschimottasana, Shalabhasana, Dhanurasana, Mandookasana

and Padahastasana are very beneficial for diabetes.

* Bhastrika Pranayama, Ujjayi Pranayama, Nadi Shodhan Pranayama and

Brahmari Pranayama are very beneficial in the case of diabetes.

* The patient should practice all the steps of Surya Namaskar daily.

Diet control for diabetes:

Proper diet control is necessary depending upon the age, work and

condition of the patient.

A person of normal weight who does not do any physical work should take

2000 calories; person involved in medium physical work should take 2500

calories and in case of excessive physical work the calorie intake

should be 3000 calories.

The diabetics with low weight need more calories compared to other

patients.

Overweight people should eat less than 2000 calories to prevent fat.

The best way to fix the calorie intake is to get the urine tested.

Diabetics can eat curd (yogurt) to maintain their physical strength.

Take one to two ounces of bitter gourd juice in the morning to control

diabetes.

Take fat free milk (250-400 ml) or buttermilk or sprouted moong gram

(dahl).

Take 30 mg fenugreek seeds or 50 gm fresh myrobalan juice.

Eat chapattis made with wheat and gram, 250 gm of green vegetables, 25

to 50 gm of salad, 25 gm of lentil (kidney beans), 150 gm of curd

(yogurt) or diluted curd.

Take 30 gm roasted gram in the evening along with a glassful of

vegetable soup or diluted curd (yogurt).

Avoid curd (yogurt) at night.

Important tips for diabetics:

* Mix soybean, fenugreek and gram flour in wheat flour and eat

chapattis made out of this flour. Mix the flours in the following

proportions: Wheat flour-7.5 kg, Gram flour-1.5 kg, Soybean flour- 0.9

kg, Fenugreek- 0.1 kg

* Avoid all types of sweets and sweet food, clarified butter, refined

flour and food made with it, and processed food. Smoking, gutka, and

alcohol are completely prohibited.

* Bitter gourd, wood apple, black plum, and neem leaves are

beneficial in controlling diabetes.

* Green leafy vegetables, cholai, bathua, coriander, mint leaves,

cabbage, cucumber, gourd, wood apple leaves, coconut, radish, tomato,

lemon, carrot, ginger, onion, butter milk, and soaked almond are also

beneficial.

* Avoid intake of starch and rice. Avoid excessive mental work and

indigestion. Do not sleep during the daytime, drink water in gulps.

* Barley is also beneficial for diabetes patients. Mix barley flour

and gram flour in 5:1 ration and eat regularly for eight to ten days.

The glucose does not pass out through urine.

* Roast barley and make a fine powder, make chapatti and eat it for

relief.

* A diabetes patient should walk and jog regularly to control sugar

level naturally. Brisk walk is beneficial if the person cannot run due

to some reasons.

* Practice Agnisar, Dhouti, Bhastrika Pranayama, Uddiyan Bandh along

with Paschimottasana to strengthen the lungs and other Pranayama for

permanent relief.

Home remedies for diabetes:

Grind six-gram fenugreek seeds coarsely and soak in 250 gm water. Crush

it nicely in the morning, sieve it with a cloth, and drink it. Follow

this remedy for two months regularly in order to overcome diabetes

completely. Those who suffer from excess heat due to fenugreek, and

ulcer patients, should take fenugreek with aniseeds. Mix a spoonful of

aniseed and two spoonfuls fenugreek seeds and soak them in a ceramic

bowl in 200 ml water. Sieve with a cloth in the morning.

Chop four leaves of black plum and grind. Sieve the juice in eight grams

water and drink regularly for ten days. Take it every two months for ten

days. This juice is very beneficial in case of sugar passing out through

urine. Chew four leaves of black plum twice daily in the beginning

stages of diabetes to give relief from the third day itself.

Put 60 gm ripe black plums in 300 gm of hot boiling water. Cover the

vessel with lid. Crush them nicely after 30 minutes and divide into

three portions. Take one portion three times during the day to reduce

sugar level.

Dry the black plum seeds in the shade and prepare a powder. Take three

grams twice daily with fresh water to overcome diabetes. Continue this

medicine for 21 days regularly.

With best wishes,

Swami Brahmavidyananda Saraswati

A Sannyasi from Uttarakhand, India

'To control diabetes-eat healthy to feel healthy'

9 November 2009,

VARANASI: While the side effects of modern allopathic drugs used for control of diabetes, one of the fastest spreading disease in the country, is

still being questioned, ayurveda experts in the region believe that drug, diet and exercise control could go a long way in controlling the disease, without costing too much on the pocket.

"Most parts of the country are blessed with indigenous herbs and medicinal plants that are known to control diabetes for years," said Prof KN Dwivedi, head, department of dravyaguna, faculty of Ayurveda, BHU.

Ayurveda drugs prepared from these plants are free from side-effects and naturally induce the immune system to fight against diabetes, he added.

Referring to some of the medicinal plants including Vijaysar (Pterocarpus marsupium), Sadabahar (Lochnera rosea), Gudmar (Gymnema silvestre) and herbs like Methi (Trigonella foenumgraecum) that have potential to control diabetes, Prof Dwivedi stressed on the need for taking balanced diet and indulging in exercise to keep diabetes away.

"There is only one formula to keep diabetes under control-eat healthy to feel healthy," he said. It also means taking balanced diet (adequate calories) and avoiding fast foods especially junk food. Also, light exercise (15 minutes each in the morning and evening) can have wonderful effect on the body, he added.

"Recent studies have shown that by controlling obesity, around 60 per cent cases of diabetes can be prevented. Similarly, the integrated approach of controlling diet, lipid profile and exercise can prevent around 80 per cent of diabetes," he said.

Speaking about some of the qualities of medicinal plants that have surfaced during research work in BHU, Prof Dwivedi said that most of these plants are known to increase insulin sensitivity for controlling diabetes.

They contain natural free radical scavengers (anti-oxidants) that promote glucose absorption from gastro-intestinal tract, he added.

Synergies of Yoga and Ayurveda

Yoga has been classically taught using the terminologies of Ayurveda, especially when describing the physical effects and benefits of various positions or asanas. On the other hand Ayurveda draws on yoga terminology and philosophy to explain the healing practices and holistic approach to life. Both Yoga and Ayurveda teach us to live according to our unique constitution or Doshas.

Yoga and Ayurveda go hand in hand and are the ancient life disciplines that have been practiced in India for a very long time. Yoga is the science of union with the Divine or with Truth, and Ayurveda is the science of life. Ayurveda is the healing side of Yoga, and Yoga is the spiritual tradition from which Ayurveda emerged

Rasayanas: Anti-Aging Secrets from Ayurveda

Ayruveda's 5000 year old tradition is based on food and herbs as the first medicine and key to health and vitality. Their cost effective efficacy without side effects has been creating more Ayurveda advocates in the modern western world lately. Clinics are popping up in several USA states.

Among rasayanas is Ghee, which goes a step further than clarified butter. Ghee is very cost effective because you can make it yourself from unsalted organic butter.

The other two are triphila and chyawanprash. Triphila is dispensed in tablets or powder form as an herbal supplement product containing three herbs. Triphila is not expensive, and the small daily amount required ensures your order will last for longer than a month, often much longer.

Chyawanprash can be used as a jam. Compared to not so beneficial jams on the market, it can be a bit pricey depending on the source. But only two teaspoons a day is sufficient to receive real health benefits. Compared to a lot of anti-aging formulas that have flooded the market, chyawanprash is quite cheap.

Both triphila and chyawanprash are able to be consumed every day for as long as desired or needed. There is no addiction or side effect issues. Most Ayurvedic doctors agree that the longer one takes them, the deeper the effects are. Besides their anti-aging properties, the rasayanas have many positive effects on the digestive system.

MODERN MEDICINE HAS NO PREVENTION

The modern method of detecting disease with medical exams and testing has nothing to do with prevention. By the time a physician has found something wrong, it’s often too late for treatment. Physical exams, mammograms, colonoscopies, and cholesterol tests are merely high tech methods for detecting late stage disease. The only physician who can truly prevent disease is you. You can create and maintain perfect health with the Ayurvedic knowledge of diet and routine you will find at http://ayurveda-foryou.com

Ayurveda can cure hepatitis, sickle cell & cancer

B P Tamrakar, a professor of Ayurveda from Bhilai. He says that Ayurvedic medicines are like amrit or - and cure a disease completely by treating the root cause of the disease. Diseases like sickle cell, thalassemia, hepatitis B and E and even cancer, which remain a challenge for the Allopathic doctors, too can be treated and managed well with Ayurveda. Tamrakar says, "Ayurveda can cure sickle cell to about 90%, turn hepatitis B and E positive patients to negative and prolong the duration between blood transfusions required by a thalassemia patient. But this is possible with right integration of modern medicine with Ayurveda." He has treated 150 sickle cell patients, 70 hepatitis infections and is conducting research with the All India Institute of Medical Sciences and College of Pharmacy, Delhi.

Jamnagar's Ayruveda university has started B.Sc in Yoga course from current academic year, currently this course has 50 seats out of which 10 are NRI seats, fees are nominal (.Rs.30,000. / 700$) for three year course.
This course is also recognized by the India's College Education committee UGC.

Sodas Makes You Fat

A huge study in California has revealed that drinking soda drinks (fizzy drinks) makes people fat. The soda industry along with the producers of high fructose corn syrup that is often used in the drinks have been denying for years that there is any connection between drinking soda and putting on weight.

However, the rates of diabetes and obesity in America have been increasing year on year as the population drink ever larger amounts of sodas.

The study comprised of a questionnaire asking amongst other things, about the habit of soft drink use in 4,000 adolescents and 43,000 adults. The researchers concluded that just drinking one soda a day raised the risk of obesity by 27%. As a comparison, of all the adults who drank a minimum of one soda a day, 62% were obese or over weight.

The study also revealed that 24% of adults, 62% of adolescents and 41% of children drink at least one soda daily. This means that 39 ponds of liquid sugar are consumed yearly by the average Californian teenager.

The health cost of this excessive consumption of soda drinks is being met by the health care system and it is certain that obesity and diabetes is taking up a huge amount of the overall resources within the entire health care system. In particular, this is due to heart disease, cancer, depression and other diseases that cost a lot to treat.

The health care providers are now beginning to take note of how much soda drinks are contributing to the total health care cost for the nation.

NaturalNews

More Americans Today Willing to Try Alternative Medical Treatments Like Ayurveda

Santa Clarita, CA, October 10, 2009 --(PR.com)-- There's a strong inclination today among many Americans to try alternative medicines, as Americans are increasingly dissatisfied with western medicine's inability to deal with many chronic disorders and illnesses. Americans are more than willing to explore and see if an alternative medicine like Ayurveda, a traditional form of East Indian medicine that originated thousands of years ago, that's gaining popularity in the U.S., could offer a better solution.

With over a fifth of American hospitals now offering some sort of alternative therapy along with conventional medicine, an astonishing one in three Americans have used — and are continuing to use some form of alternative or complementary medicines, most of them without informing their physicians.

As a complementary therapy Ayurveda's popularity in the U.S. is increasing. "There is a major push for study on Ayurveda in the United States,” says Dr. Daniel Furst, director of clinical research at the David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, who led a study of rheumatoid arthritis to test combinations of allopathic and Ayurvedic treatments to determine efficacy. “It (Ayurveda) has been practiced for 3,000 years [in India]. No one will do it if it is garbage. It will gain credibility if adequately tested and will be used more.” Americans are spending billions on alternative medical treatments. And major hospitals and medical schools are embracing them.

Ayurveda addresses the well-being of the entire person. Herbs and minerals, nutrition and purification, affirmative ways of living are a few of the ways in which Ayurveda treats not just the ailment but the whole person, emphasizing prevention of disease to avoid the need for cure.

Herbs for Healthy Aging:

Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera). Ashwagandha is a shrubby plant which offers tremendous potential as an energizing medicinal herb. Ayurvedic practitioners have used the roots of this plant for centuries with success as a tonic to increase vitality and longevity, as well as to treat health conditions as diverse as tumors and arthritis.Ashwagandha was tested for its anti-aging properties. The subjects experienced significant improvement in hemoglobin, RBC count, hair melanin, and seated stature. Serum cholesterol decreased and nail calcium was preserved, and 70 percent of the research subjects reported improvement in sexual performance.

Amla (Emblica officinalis). Amla is a rejuvenator. It has antioxidant properties and can counter the toxicity of heavy metals such as nickel, cobalt, arsenic, and mercury. It also provides protective properties after one has been exposed to toxic or carcinogenic chemicals.It has powerful anti-cancerous properties and has been used in cancer therapy to cut down the side effects of chemotherapy and radiation. According to ancient Ayurvedic texts, one who consumes a rasayana with Amla as the main ingredient is one who will “live for a hundred years without any sign of decrepitude.” Among other things, Amla is one of the richest sources of natural vitamin C available and is well-known as a powerful immune support.

Shatawari (Asparagus racemosus). This herb has tonic, adaptogenic, alterative (curative), and aphrodisiac activities. It is used to treat debility and chronic diseases like infertility, impotence, menopause, lung abscesses, and chronic fevers, as well as stomach ulcers, hyperacidity, and hormonal imbalance and diarrhea. Decoctions of the herb have a soothing effect on dry and irritated membranes, making it useful in treating bronchitis and other respiratory ailments.As a rasayana, it is believed to bring all of the body’s fluids into balance.

Trifala (Terminalia chebula, Terminalia bellerica, and Emblica officinalis). Trifala is another adaptogen. The combined herbs are synergistic and have digestive and eliminative actions. It has anti-parasitic, anti-yeast, anti-bacterial, and antihistaminic properties. It improves the flow of bile, lowers cholesterol, and can be used as adjuvant in chemotherapy and radiation treatments.

Shilajeet (Mineral pitch). Shilajeet is a rich source of naturally occurring minerals. Russian athletes used it as a nonsteroidal body builder and stamina enhancer. Ayurvedic medicine considers it as an aphrodisiac, a tonic for the kidneys and prostate. It helps with benign prostate enhancement and is an immune enhancer.In Ayurveda, Shilajit is considered a rasayana herb and an adaptogen.4 The substance has been found to contain at least 85 minerals in ionic form, as well as humic acid and fulvic acid. Clinical research has been conducted to determine Shilajit’s pharmacological activity, and the results have confirmed its traditional uses in treating impotence, sterility, mental diseases, and for improving memory and learning.

Pippli (Piper longum). Pippli helps in digestion, and enhances acid and enzyme secretions. It significantly enhances the absorption of nutrients, herbs, and drugs, and has shown anti-allergic, anti-asthmatic, and powerful anti-parasitic actions.Ancient Ayurvedic texts list Pippli as one of the most powerful rasayana herbs, which means that it is a valuable longevity enhancer. It is also considered a purifying herb, with soothing qualities that help improve the quality of sleep.