Why Rasasindura is not toxic?

Researchers have employed state-of-the-art analytical tools and elegant computational methods in a truly multidisciplinary project to prove that Rasasindura, the mercury-containing Ayurvedic drug, is not toxic. Mercury is one of the top ten chemicals of major public health concern. (WHO Worksheet No 363, Sept 2013). Metallic mercury is highly mobile, soluble in water depending on its chemical form and oxidises relatively easily. Bacteria convert environmental mercury in to methyl mercury. Mercury interacts with human body and turns it into methyl mercury. Methyl mercury is more toxic. As per conventional wisdom, Rasasindura will be toxic. Ayurvedic physicians claim that they have been using this drug for ages without any harm. The study carried out in Bhabha Atomic Research Centre and Raja Ramanna Centre for Advanced Technology tries to solve the riddle.“...Our work not only helps to understand the non-toxicity of Rasasindura but also establishes the Ayurvedic synthesis method for a well controlled end-product,” Dr. Debdutta Lahiri and her colleagues wrote in the latest issue of Journal of Synchrotron Radiation.

In this study, researchers used virgin samples of Rasasindura prepared as per Ayurvedic protocols. “Bhasmikaran” (making into powder), is simple in theory; it involves repeated, controlled and prolonged heating of metals with suitable ingredients to make metal powders and to remove residual metals and toxic organic molecules. The results obtained by the scientists apply only to the sample they used and not to any commercially available sample of Rasasindura. Regrettably, Ayurvedic formulations do not have any applicable standards.

Scientists used five analytical tools and procedures with Rasasindura and nanoparticles of lab-based red á-HgS to prove that the structure of Rasasindura is indeed the very stable, á-HgS. Surface organic groups or organic groups were absent in both .The drug has thus the following attributes: because of the special affinity of Hg to Sulphur, Hg-S bonds are very strong. Other workers have shown that accumulation of á-HgS in the human body is very low. Absorption of á-HgS by the gastro-intestinal tract is only 0.2 per cent; the fraction reaching the kidney is much lower at only 0.02 per cent. HgS is 10,000 times less toxic than methyl mercury.

The researchers showed that complete oxidation occurred in Rasasindura and free mercury or organic mercury was absent in it. They used synchrotron-based X-ray Absorption Fine Structure (XAFS) method to prove 100 per cent HgS formation in Rasasindura.

They found that that Rasasindura contains nanocrystals of about 20 nm size. Particle distribution is better controlled in Rasasindura than in á-HgS, made in laboratories. The paper proves that toxicity cannot be decided by elemental analysis alone.

In December 2004, Dr Robert B. Saper from the Boston University School of Medicine and his colleagues stated that 20 per cent of the Ayurvedic medicines they purchased from Boston contained high levels of lead, mercury and arsenic (Journal of American Medical Association). We do not know whether companies prepared any of these drugs as per Ayurvedic protocols. Saper's paper led to the banning of such drugs in many countries.

Since then a few papers showed that some of the drugs are not toxic.

Let me reiterate that the present study does not endorse any sample of Rasasindura available in the market.

The author is former Secretary, Atomic Energy Regulatory Board. Email: ksparth@yahoo.co.uk

Read More articles about Use of Heavy Metals in Ayurveda and about their Toxicity.

Kerala government forms separate department for Ayush

Mirroring the central model, the government of Kerala has formed a separate department for Ayush (Ayurveda, Yoga, Naturopathy, Unani, Siddha and Homoeopathy) with a view to promote the use of Indian Systems of Medicine (ISM) and to implement various projects under Union government’s Ayush programmes.

With this, after Rajasthan and Himachal Pradesh, Kerala becomes the third state in the country to have separate department for Ayush systems. It will help the state to avail more funds through Central government schemes to implement various centrally sponsored projects.

The creation of the Ayush department will help largely for the growth of traditional medicines in Kerala, especially in the field of Ayurveda. The main objectives of the department include strengthening methods of treatment under ISM, develop standards of Ayush education by modernising hospitals and other healthcare institutions, develop infrastructure facilities for Ayush education, push up research activities in the sector, promote educational programmes under Indian systems of medicine, adopt measures to improve the quality of drugs and to increase the availability of raw drugs and medicinal plants.

The creation of the department will improve acceptance of Ayurveda . Kerala will become the capital of Ayurveda in the country, though it is already a major hot-spot for ayurvedic treatments.

Cinnamon For Hypertension

Cinnamon a commonly used spice is available as rolled quills, powder or liquid extract. There are many cinnamon varieties although the most commonly used is Ceylon cinnamon and Cassia (Chinese) Cinnamon. Cinnamon also offers various health benefits mainly due to the presence of volatile oils cinnamaldehyde, cinnamyl alcohol and cinnamyl acetate. Cinnamon contains calcium, iron, manganese, vitamin K and dietary fiber.

Cassia cinnamon has especially been used for medicinal purposes. It could be used to treat hypertension, some types of cancer, chest pain or kidney disorders. Cinnamon is said to reduce high blood pressure and improve blood glucose circulation. It is also said to help lower LDL (bad) cholesterol and triglyceride levels.

Foods rich in calcium like cinnamon could help lower blood pressure levels. Calcium acts as a mediator in contracting and relaxing blood vessels. Calcium deficiency could result in raising blood pressure levels. This is where cinnamon can help. 1 tbps of cinnamon provides close to 8% of daily body calcium requirement.

In one randomized trial that studied 58 patients , it was found that 2g cinnamon taken daily reduced high blood pressure and blood sugar levels over time. In a 2006 study it was found that cinnamon regulated blood sugar metabolism and lowered blood pressure in rats suffering from hypertension. Thus cinnamon can be of help in dealing with hypertension but detail effects of cinnamon need some more study.
Read more about Cinnamon.

Ayurveda Has Practical Approach to PCOS

Though Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) has been identified in younger generation, Ayurveda System of Medicine has a practical approach to the same,

Though Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is a common female endocrinal disorder with prevalence of about 26 per cent in the age group of 18 to 45 years. It has of late been identified with much younger generation which could be the cause of concern. Yet, Ayurveda has practical approach in diagnosis and management of PCOS, said AYUSH Department Director Vijayakumar Gogi.

Women with increasing symptoms of PCOS face fertility problems owing to overarian dysfunction and endocrine problems.The Ayurveda approach to PCOS focuses on regularising the cycle and managing infertility in married women, he added.
Read more about Ayurvedic management of PCOS problem at -
 http://ayurveda-foryou.com/women/pcos_treatment.html

MAC, Pune to start govt approved Ayurveda industrial training courses by August 2015

In order to enhance skill set and also encourage entrepreneurship in Ayurveda industry, MAC Pune has received Maharashtra University of Health Sciences (MUHS) recognition as Industrial Training Institute to start fellowship courses from August 15 this year at the MAC Pune Ayush cluster. Maharashtra Ayurved Center Pvt Ltd (MAC) based at Kolewadi, Pune cluster, funded by the Ayush ministry, houses a dedicated raw material processing centre for supply of standardised, graded, certified and processed raw materials in bulk to the ayurvedic manufacturers across the state. MAC Pune cluster is the second Ayurveda cluster after Konkan in the state. The institute recognised by MUHS, Nashik will conduct industrial training courses for Bachelor of Ayurvedic Medicine & Surgery (BAMS) and Pharmacy students to increase their skill sets. It will empower students with hands on training on various latest techniques/machines in ayurvedic manufacturing along with giving a low down on legal and FDA licensing aspects also enabling them to seek placements directly in the industry at various posts. Applications are invited from eligible candidates for admission to fellowship courses for the academic year 2015-2016 namely fellowship course in ayurvedic raw material identification, storage, processing and packaging (FCARMISPP) which is for a duration 12 months and fellowship course in ayurvedic drug manufacturing (FCADM) which is again for a duration of 12 months. The course fees is Rs. 40,000/course for the academic session of one year. Available seats for each course is 5. Informed Dr Sunita Belgamwar, chairperson, Maharashtra Ayurveda Centre Pvt Ltd (Ayush industry cluster sponsored by the Government of India), "There is s huge requirement of such trained manpower considering the future requirement of raw material which is standardised, certified and packaged properly. The course is intended to train personnel mainly for meeting requirements of consumer sector of ayurvedic drugs. They will be acquainted with the raw material of ayurvedic drugs for identification, storage, processing, packaging and making it ready for manufacturing. They will also be trained to maintain stores of ayurvedic drugs (both raw materials and finished products) properly." She further added that the increasing demand for traditional drugs globally also has led to increase in exports from the country of the raw material and finished drugs. MAC Pune cluster has given us an opportunity to develop a 360 degree horizontal model to propagate concepts and principles of Ayurved to all the stakeholders through interventions like exhibition, contract manufacturing, raw material processing and sale, quality control lab and entrepreneurship development centre. The MAC Pune cluster is aimed at bringing about quality improvement of raw material and finished goods, reduction in the individual capital investment through contract manufacturing, reduction in the pre manufacturing time (40 per cent time saving) by virtue of bulk raw material supply, reduction in the packaging and labelling costs through a common facility centre, reduction in marketing costs by common marketing and branding (40 per cent cost saving), development of new drugs, process design and validation to compete globally, IPR protection and assistance in research and development and global exposure through common exhibitions.

Ayurveda Therapies to Psychiatric patients

Nimhans centre,Bangalore offers ayurveda therapies to psychiatric patients

The ayurveda centre has been helping those suffering from schizophrenia to tackle their violent, aggressive behaviour and sleeplessness. Nimhans has been collaborating with the Indian ancient medicine since 1959. In 1970, the centre was upgraded by the Central Council for Research in Ayurvedic Sciences (CCRAS) with the establishment of the Advanced Centre for Ayurveda in Mental Health and Neuro Sciences.

Patients are suggested select therapies of Panchakarma that does detoxification. Medicated oil massage, termed Shirodhara in ayurveda, is also helpful.

Those suffering from muscular dystrophy are suggested some Panchakarma therapies that reduce stiffness in the arms and calf muscles.

Low IQ? Get treated here

The Advanced Centre for Ayurveda in Mental Health and Neuro Sciences, which is conducting in Manasa Mandata (slight mental retardation) among children.
Ayurvedic medicines like Saraswath Gritha (medicated ghee) and Brahmee Gritha made up of herbs are used to treat mild mental retardation. There are cases wherein after a couple of months of treatment, the children have improved their IQ from 52 to 61.

Read More about Ayurvedic Psychology.

Natural remedies to boost your immunity

Dear Reader, Come winter and you blame the cold for body ache joint pains and the   sniffles. Research, however, proves that it is not the temperature, but the germs spread during winter that causes it and foods that are not suitable. To prevent this, build your immunity then additions to the diet is the best tool.

Luckily, nature takes care of this and produces foods that are needed to boost your immunity during the winter. Melons and mangoes don’t grow naturally in winter or  strawberries  in summer  and  if  they are  available  for  some  reason  than  don’t  have them 

Ancient Indian medicine believes there are cooling foods and warming foods, which change according to seasons, therefore the diet changes with the change of season. Immune-boosting produce is what you need. Enhance your immunity with antioxidants, beta-carotene, lycopene, Vitamin E, selenium, vitamin C, fibre, natural fat, natural sugar and photochemicals. Winter foods are packed with the above and plenty more. Leafy greens, cruciferous vegetables like cauliflower; gobi paratha, gobi mutter, gobi aur sargam ka aachar… or even radishes… Quite a staple during winter!

By Naini Setalvad

Read more about Immunity Boosting in Ayurveda

Symbolic Meaning of God Ganesha Statue

 

 Ganesh is a God of Intelligence .That is why we worship this God Ganesh at the beginning of every activity in our life like may be beginning of study ,wedding ceremony ,entering in new house etc .By this worship we want to appeal that ‘Please give us such a Intelligence by which we can prevent obstacles or we can overcome them if at all it happens ,’

Statue of God Ganesh also has so many symbolic teachings to us .His face is of Elephant .We know that Elephant is supposed to be Intelligent & strong animal .So we must also try to become strong & Intelligent .Broad forehead is also indicating Intelligence ,because in human body we have all centers of Intelligence( higher functions)  in forehead.Small eyes of Ganesh indicates sharp vision capable to select in between Good & Bad .Big ears teaches us to become  a good listener .Big belly is indicating that God Ganesh can digest many mistakes of human being (& forgive them ).Similarly we should also try to accept the mistakes done by other people & can forgive him to give a chance for improvement .Trunk of elephant  can pick up a beautiful Lotus & at the same time   ,when he becomes furious ,he can uproot even a strongest tree .So we  should also be soft spoken in day to day activities & also should be strong enough to make a lesson to bad people .

While worshiping God Ganesh it will be better if we could understand this aspect & purpose of festival .Otherwise worship can only become mechanical process.

Second point is regarding when we chant Aarti of Ganesh or Atharvashirsha .What is the meaning of this ? Are they only words or have some other sense? Yes ! any prayer has it’s own importance .Prayer is a dialogue with our soul.Prayer is like food of soul .Prayer is a process of Introspection .So it should be more of quite type ,with closed eyes,with sitting in a comfortable position .Prayer is a Meditation .Words in the prayer are like Mantra . Mantra chanting is like Music Therapy .It has a power to clean your mind,removing bad thoughts & implanting smoothening & nourishing thoughts .Prayer is like taking bath or shower to clean your mind & refresh your soul .

Athrvashirsha word itself has specific meaning .This is made up of A + THARVA + Shirsha .Tharva means unstable .Atharva means Stable .Shirsha means head or brain or mind .So by chanting Atharvashirsha regularly can make your brain or mind or thoughts more stable ,calm & happy .Chanting of this mantra is like Tonic in this fast life or Hyperactive life style ,to chilled down our senses .

So let us make Salute to God Ganesh or Power of intelligence !!

---By Prof.Dr.R.R.Deshpande

AYURVEDA WORKS -– even Western science now says so

Conventional studies are revealing that this ancient Indian medicinal system can truly address a slew of ills, from diabetes to depression.
Ayurveda, one of the oldest systems of medicine in the world, is currently under the scrutiny of the Western scientific community. So far, the results are encouraging.

A study in The Netherlands proves that Ayurveda significantly lowers the level of toxins in the body after only two weeks of treatment.
Patrick Eyquem, the Frenchman from Bordeaux, France, who runs Arogya Ayurvedic Center says “We did blood tests on chemicals accumulated in the body that one acquires from food, such as from fertilizers and pesticides, and the reduction of chemicals after two weeks was from 48-50 percent.”

Another research team, this time led by Dr. Rainer Waldschütz,  at the Albert Ludwig University of Freiburg in Breisgau, Baden-Württemberg, Germany, conducted a study on a group of 130 subjects.
After 14 days on panchakarma, an Ayurvedic detoxification treatment, the average level of cholesterol dropped from 203.5 mg to 179.5 mg. LDL levels dropped by about 8.7 percent. This, in turn, reduced the risk of heart attack by about 17.8 percent.

Other findings of the study included: decreased levels of 17 toxic and cancer-causing chemicals from the body tissues, including heavy metals and pesticides; decreased cholesterol by lowering toxic lipid peroxide levels; decreased the rate of platelet clumping; raised the good, HDL cholesterol; lowered diastolic blood pressure; reduced free radicals; reduced bodily complaints, irritability, strain and psychological inhibitions; decreased anxiety and aging.
During the study, Ayurveda has been proven successful in treating chronic disease such as rheumatoid arthritis (88 percent effective), bronchial asthma (78 percent), chronic bronchitis (71 percent), eczema (68 percent), psoriasis (60 percent), chronic constipation (88 percent), headache (85 percent), chronic sinusitis (100 percent), diabetes mellitus (75 percent) and hypertension (56 percent).

Turmeric Steadies Blood Sugar

Turmeric is a flavorful yellow spice used in rice and meat dishes and even deserts, but it also has outstanding medicinal properties. Use turmeric to treat high blood sugar levels, a practice that has been scientifically confirmed by research at Gujarat University. They confirmed that the active ingredient in turmeric, called curcumin, switches on the genes that keep blood glucose levels stable. The compound can also help the pancreas make insulin when it is low. In order to see the benefits of turmeric, start taking about half a teaspoon daily either directly or in your cooking.

Read More about Health benefits of Turmeric 

Ayurveda medicinal plants with anti-diabetic and other beneficial properties

Plant Name	Ayurvedic/common name/	Anti-diabetic and other beneficial effects proved scientifically	References
Acacia arabica:	Babbul	Hypoglycemic effect by initiating release of insulin from pancreatic beta cells	( Wadood A., et all, 1989 )
Aegle marmelos	Bael or Bilva	Hypoglycemic activity	(Karunanayake E.H. et all, 1984)
Aloe vera and Aloe barbadensis	Gwarpatha or Ghritkumari	Hypoglycemic activity
Azadirachta indica:	Neem	Anti-diabetic activity, apart from this plant also has anti-bacterial, antimalarial, antifertility, hepatoprotective and antioxidant effects	(Biswas K., et all, 2002 )
Annona squamosa	Sitaphal	Hypoglycemic and antihyperglycemic activities of ethanolic leaf-extract, Increased plasma insulin level	(Kaleem M. et all, 2006 & Gupta R K, et all, 2005)
Artemisia pallens	Davana	Hypoglycemic, increases peripheral glucose utilization or inhibits glucose reabsorption	(Subramonium A., et all, 1996 )
Areca catechu	Pugi/Supari	Hypoglycemic	(Chempakam B. 1993 )
Boerhavia diffusa	Punarnava	Increase in hexokinase activity,decrease in glucose-6-phosphatase and fructose bis-phosphatase activity, increase plasma insulin level, antioxidant	(Pari L.,2004 & Sateesh M A 2004)
Bombax ceiba	Semul or Shalmali Palasha	Hypoglycemic Hypoglycemic (Somani R., et all, 2006 )	(Saleem R.,et all, 1999 )
Butea monosperma Cassia auriculata Linn	Avartaki	Antihyperglycemic	(S. J. Surana, et all, 2008 )
Capparis decidua	Karir or Kair	Hypoglycemic, antioxidant, hypolipidaemic	(Agarwal V., Chauhan B.M. 1988 )
Coccinia indica	Bimbi	Hypoglycemic	(Kamble S.M.,et all, 1998)
Emblica officinalis	Amla, Dhatriphala, a constituent of herbal formulation, “Triphala”	Decreases lipid peroxidation, antioxidant, Hypoglycemic	Bhattacharya A, et all 1999,b. Kumar K C S , et all, 1999, c. Bhattacharya A, et all, 1995)
Enicostema littorale	Krimihrita	Increase hexokinase activity, Decrease glucose 6-phosphatase and fructose 1,6 bisphosphatase activity. Dose dependent hypoglycemic activity	(a) Maroo J., et all, 2003, b. Vijayvargia R. et all, 2000)
Eugenia jambolana	Indian gooseberry, jamun, Jambu	Antihyperglycemic effect, Inhibits insulin activity from liver and kidney	(Acherekar S., et all, 1991)
Ficus bengalenesis	Vat/ Burgad	Hypoglycemic, antioxidant	(Augusti K.T., et all, 1994)
Gymnema sylvestre	Gudmar or Meshashringi	Anti-hyperglycemic effect, hypolipidemic	Chattopadhyay R.R, 1999, b. Preuss H.G., et all, 1998)
Hemidesmus indicus	Sariva/Anantamul	Anti snake venom activity, anti-inflammatory, Hypoglycemic	(Alam M.I., Gomes A. 1998)
Hibiscus rosa-sinesis Hollarhena antidisentrica	Gudahal or Japa Kutaj	Initiates insulin release from pancreatic beta cells Hypoglycemic activity	(Sachadeva A., Khemani L.D, 1999) (P. Chandar – 2006)
Momordica cymbalaria	Karela	Hypoglycemic, hypolipidemic	(Rao B.K. et all, 1999)
Murraya koenigii	Curry patta, Meetha Neem	Hypoglycemic, increases glycogenesis and decreases gluconeogenesis and glycogenolysis	(Khan B.A.,, et all, 1995)
Swertia chirayita	Chiraita	Stimulates insulin release from islets	(Saxena A.M., et all, 1993)
Syzygium alternifolium	Shaha - jira	Hypoglycemic and antihyperglycemic	(Rao B.K., Rao C.H., 2001 )
Terminalia belerica	Behada	Antibacterial, Hypoglycemic	(Sabu M.C., Kuttan R, 2002 )
Terminalia chebula	Haritaki or Harad	Antibacterial, Hypoglycemic	(Sabu M.C., Kuttan R., 2002)
Vinca rosea	Sadabahar	Anti-hyperglycemic	(Chattopadhyay S.R, et all, 1991 )
Withania somnifera	Ashvagandha, Winter cherry	Hypoglycemic, diuretic and hypocholesterolemic	(Adallu B., Radhika B. , 2004 )

 We have published an excelent ebook on Diabetes "Ayurvedic Cure of Diabetes" This will give you detailed Ayurvedic approch of Diabetes Management. More>>>>

Mercury in Ayurvedic medicines is good

Contrary to the debate on international regulations to ban trade of mercury owing to its toxicity and adverse impact on the environment, an Ayurveda expert at the Banaras Hindu University has advocated the use of mercurial preparations as medicine to treat acute and chronic diseases. However, he has also cautioned against its free use.

"Mercurial preparations in Ayurveda are not toxic in nature if prepared according to classical parameters with guidelines of good manufacturing practices," said head of the department of Rasa Shastra Prof Anand Chaudhary.

"But, classically prepared Ayurvedic medicines are not toxic. Mercury in Ayurveda is processed specifically with very specific pharmaceutical preparation, known as ?Samskar' of mercury and finally converted into medicinal sulphide form, which is not harmful," claimed Chaudhary.

According to him, western countries tried to use mercury as medicine in the 15th-16th century AD, but failed in their attempt. They used mercury to treat diuretic and syphilis in its chloride form and experienced many adverse effects. But Indian Ayurveda developed innovative methods in the 10th century AD to convert elemental mercury into its sulphide medicinal form. Indian knowledge is perfect as it developed technology to produce stable and non toxic form of Mercury as Rasa Sindoor, Rasa Parpati and many other forms of medicines of Ayurveda, he claimed.

Read More - Heavy metals in Ayurvedic Medicines

Poha — Powerhouse of nutrition

Poha is one of the few Indian dishes that can be had for breakfast, lunch or even as a snack. Made from flattened or beaten rice, it can be prepared in a jiffy and is highly nutritious too. Rice is parboiled, flattened and dried to make the thin flakes that we call poha. All over India, poha is made in many different ways making it a very versatile dish. Here we look at the many nutrition benefits of the humble poha.

Packed with iron: Eating poha regularly can prevent iron deficiency or anaemia as it contains 20 mg of iron in every 100g raw rice flakes. Children as well as pregnant and lactating women can benefit greatly by consuming it. Softened poha is also a great way to add dietary iron when an infant is weaned from breastmilk. Sufficient iron helps the body to form haemoglobin that carries oxygen to body cells and also builds immunity. Squeeze a cut lemon on the poha as it helps improve iron absorption.

A complete meal: Mixed vegetables can be added to rice flakes to make it rich in vitamins, minerals and fibre. Add sprouts, soya nuggets, peanuts and even boiled eggs to make a well-balanced and high-protein meal. Poha also makes a tasty and healthy packed lunch for toddlers as well as office goers. Opt for beaten rice made from brown rice for an extra health boost. Here are some more quick breakfast options. 

A good source of carbs: Carbohydrates are the major source of energy in a bowl of poha. This makes it a perfect breakfast option. It can be eaten for snack too in the place of unhealthy options such as chips and biscuits. Carbohydrates are needed to help our body store energy, and perform various other functions. But getting your carb intake from healthy sources is vital and poha is one healthy source. 

Very low on gluten: These days, many people are cutting down on food grains like wheat and barley even if they aren’t sensitive to gluten. These people can opt for poha as it has very low amounts of gluten. People who have celiac disease should consult their doctor if they can eat poha without causing bloating or stomach pain. They can eat khichdi too as it is very healthy. Here are some health benefits of khichdi. 

Good for diabetics: Poha is considered to be a great meal option for diabetics as it promotes slow release of sugar into the bloodstream. It also keeps you full for longer time. A single serving is enough to keep you going without hunger pangs and reach for unhealthy sweets and junk food. Add chunks of soya to increase its nutritive value. You can also try this sample diet plan for diabetics. 

To avoid monotony, make it by incorporating many different ingredients. Each state in India has their own version of this dish. Try this mixed sprouts poha for breakfast. 

Given below is the calorie count in 1 katori of poha: 

Vegetable Poha- 244 Kcal

Peanut Poha- 589 Kcal

Huli Avalakki- 222 Kcal

Content courtesy- http://www.thehealthsite.com/fitness/health-benefits-of-poha-k214/

Ayurvedic treatments for male infertility

The rate at which infertility is fast becoming a common phenomenon in today's hectic stressful lives, is rather alarming, all thanks to our current lifestyle taking a toll on our overall health.

Infertility is a medical condition affecting almost one in ten couples trying to conceive. Male fertility problems are the primary diagnosis in approximately 25 % of cases and contribute to a further 15-25% of the remaining cases.

Ayurvedic remedies have long been used to address the problems of fertility. Evidence of the use of herbal remedies for male infertility dates all the way back to 5000 BC.

Mucuna Pruriens (Kawach)
A medicinal plant, which has been mentioned in the treatises of ancient Indian texts such as the 'Charaka Samhita' and the 'Susrutha Samhita'.

Shilajit
An excellent restorative and rejuvenating tonic, it ensures good physical performance for the individual and leads to balanced and harmonious health. Shilajit is also known as sex tonic in India as it increases the core energy responsible for sexual drive or libido. It balances debility, general fatigue and provides strength to muscles and bones.

Safed Musli
The dried roots of Safed Musli (also known as asparagus) are used in Ayurveda as an aphrodisiac. Its tubers are used in Ayurvedic medicine preparations.White Musli or Safed Musli is primarily used as a tonic to rejuvenate the reproductive system. The regular use of this herb is valuable in impotency, premature ejaculation and low sperm count in men. As it is very rich in glycosides, it works very well in curing impotency and low sperm count

Ashwagandha
This is a very effective medicine for male infertility.  It is a tonic for the nerves and helps in neuritis. It is helpful in sexual disorders like erectile dysfunction and Oligospermia.

Read More >>

Prepare Ayurvedic Medicines at your home

Prepare Ayurvedic Medicines at your home – Video by By Prof.Dr.R.R.Deshpande ,Pune,India

Ayurvedic Medicines are very natural to human body systems. If you have little liking of cooking, then preparing Ayurvedic Medicines is a fun. It gives Quality medicines, in a low cost compare to Market Medicines. 

There are 3 parts of this Video .In first part you will see Panchkol Phant ( Hot infusion of 5 pungent plants),Dhanya Hima( Cold infusion of Dry Coriander) ,Arjun Kshir pak( Medicated milk from Arjun as Cardiac Tonic) . 

In Second  part you will see Preparation of Shatavari Kalpa ( Sugar Granules of Asparegus Recemosus). 

In Third  part you will see   Preparation of Bala oil( Medicated oil from Bala) 

For First Part

http://youtu.be/MeUeYXuIqPk

For Second Part

http://youtu.be/mBM1_ex24rU

For Third Part

http://youtu.be/uO9BMtkVkaU

Know more about Ayurvedic Kitchen Pharmacy in Ebook - Home Remedies in Ayurveda 

Eat right for a Healthy life

Our diet is an essential factor for the formation of our body. It is clearly mentioned in 'Charak Samhita' that consuming improper diet in improper way is the main cause of 'Disease'.

Acording to 'Charak ,"An appropriate and suitable diet in a disease is equivalent to hundred drugs and any quantity of drug hardly compares to good results in disease without following proper dietetic regimen"

 When diet is wrong medicine is of no use.
When diet is correct medicine is of no need. "
[Ancient Ayurvedic Proverb Read More about Right Diet----

WOMEN AND BABY CARE 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 23 EBOOKS on various topics in Ayurveda and our 24 th eBOOK 'WOMEN AND BABY CARE IN AYURVEDA' is published on 31 st March 2014,The Hindu New Year Day.

Ayurveda is the classical natural health care system from India. 'Prasutitantra' is one of the eight branches of 'Ashtanga Ayurveda' .'Prasutitantra' is not just limited to pregnancy treatments alone, but also suggests the best timings for consuming, nutritious food for healthy mother and child, changes in lifestyle in each month of pregnancy etc. It has well defined procedures and medications under obstetrics and gynecology. These practices include infertility treatments, pre-pregnancy care, delivery procedures and post-delivery care. These practices are aimed at a less-complicated delivery and healthy mother and child.
The author has gathered all the relevant information about these topics from Ancient Ayurvedic texts like Kashyapa, Charaka, Sushruta and Vagbhata and have also updated the same according to the current situation.
This E-book 'WOMEN AND BABY CARE IN AYURVEDA' is divided in five parts.
The first part deals with fundamental principles of Ayurveda, including anatomy, physiology of female reproductive system and daily routine for women.
The second part explains pregnancy, month wise regimen for pregnant women, diet exercise and diseases in pregnancy.
The third part deals with Baby care and treatment of various diseases in infants .
The Fourth part explains about mother care after delivery and information about diseases after pregnancy.
The Fifth part explains various diseases of women and their treatment. Now days, we also find many new diseases that have not been described in ancient texts of Ayurveda. However we can treat all these diseases and make the life of working women better and happier.
Reader may find new terminology and many new names of herbs; the 'Herbs and Medicines Glossary' explains all these in detail.
About the Author -
Dr. Sunanda RanadeB.A.M&S; Ph.D, is Vice Chairman of International Academy of Ayurveda, Pune, India. She is expert Ayurvedic gynecologist and nutritionist and is working in this field for last 40 years.
The book 'WOMEN AND BABY CARE IN AYURVEDA' is a complete and comprehensive treatise on the subject.
This great work by Dr. Sunanda Ranade is very useful for patients, students, practioners, researchers and for all of you, who are interested in Ayurvedic Science and Mother and Baby Care in Ayurveda.

Curcumin: Promising Treatment for Depression

About 1 in 10 Americans report symptoms of depression, and the causes can be as varied as the individuals reporting them.

Depression is a major global public health issue leading to substantial disability. The pharmaceutical interventions can be quite costly, and have many potentially serious adverse effects. There are also many people whose disease does not fully respond to treatment. Curcumin used in this study shows efficacy on major depression on its own at the same level as the drug, and even better results when combined with the drug.

The results of this study – and further studies to come – have incredible potential. They will be meaningful for the health and hope of millions of people worldwide

Read More about Health Benefits of Turmeric HERE

Ayurvedic Diet Stops Craving

Here is a tip you will find very helpful. Following the Ayurvedic diet actually helps you stop cravings! 

There are six recognized tastes that should be included in daily meals. Cravings take place when all six tastes are not included in the diet. It is important that these six tastes in the Ayurvedic diet are consumed in the order of how the body digests food: sweet, sour, salty, pungent, bitter and astringent. By doing so the body feels satisfied after a meal. Naturally, if you leave out one taste, example the sweet (sugar, rice, milk), you’re not feeling as satisfied as you want and will be craving long after the meal is over. This diet seems the reverse of how we consume our food since we usually have the sweets at the end of the meal. But following this order is holistic and makes sense. For example, eating something bitter like lettuce and turmeric or astringent like beans or lentils at the end minimizes cravings for sweets. As you can see this diet is also a great way of losing weight – without trying hard.

Biggest heart attack risks for Indians revealed

Indian researchers have conducted a data mining exercise to find out important risk factors in increasing the chances of an individual having a heart attack. The authors confirm that the usual suspects high blood cholesterol, intake of alcohol and passive smoking play the most crucial role in 'severe,' 'moderate' and 'mild' cardiac risks, respectively.
What Ayurveda has to offer for Heart Diseases read in the Ebook- Ayurvedic Management of Heart Diseases. 

AYURVEDIC ASPECT OF DIET & NUTRITION (You are what you Eat!)

AYURVEDIC ASPECT OF DIET & NUTRITION (You are what you Eat!)
Ayurvedic cooking is about foods that suit your dosha (constitution). It involves a balanced meal, which nourishes and fulfills the requirements of the body, builds immunity, heals the body, aids digestion and eliminates waste. To avoid contracting season-specific illnesses, ayurveda recommends seasonal diets to help the body acclimatise to the season; warm spices and heavy grains on cold winter days and lighter foods such as fruits and vegetable salads during summer.

AYURVEDIC PRAKRITI"(Your Dosha-Constitution & It's Significance to You)

Allopathic docs prescribing Ayurvedic medicines!

If you are dependent on Ayurvedic medicines prescribed by your allopath, then you better think again before taking your next dose. Your doctor is as ignorant about Ayurvedic medicines as you are. 

A study by the pharmacology department of KEM hospital has revealed that most of the allopaths who prefer prescribing Ayurvedic medicines for ailments like liver disorder, arthritis, cough and cold, kidney stones and piles, have little knowledge about Ayurvedic medicines.  
According to the study, 99% of the resident doctors did not even learn the basics of Ayurveda but 67% of them prescribe Ayurvedic medicines to their patients.   
At least 90% of allopath doctors basically rely on the reputation and credibility of the manufacturer, instead of knowing the content of the medicines.

Learn Ayurveda yourself.!

Exercise Stops Alzheimer's Better Than Drugs

The study, published in the Journal of Alzheimer's Disease, provides new hope for individuals diagnosed with mild cognitive impairment (MCI) — a tell-tale precursor to dementia. Lead researcher J. Carson Smith, M.D., assistant professor in the Department of Kinesiology, found that brain activity associated with memory can improve after as little as three months of a moderate exercise program.
"We found that after 12 weeks of being on a moderate exercise program, study participants improved their neural efficiency — basically they were using fewer neural resources to perform the same memory task," said Dr. Smith. "No study has shown that a drug can do what we showed is possible with exercise."

Read more about Ayurvedic way of treatment of Alzheimer's -- Working for a road of recovery through Ayurvedic treatment

Because it is easier to prevent Alzheimer’s then looking for treatment for correcting it !

Prediabetes Risk Factors 5 Signs - You Might Be at Risk for Diabetes

1] What Feeling Tired and Sluggish After Eating Might Mean?
Ready to nap right after a big meal? This is a normal response to an influx of carbs (think of that post-Thanksgiving dinner feeling). But if it happens often, your body may be sending a message that your diet is too diabetes-friendly.

After eating, all carbohydrates -- whether in a doughnut or a carrot -- are broken down into the bloodstream as glucose (blood sugar), the body's main energy source. When the blood containing the glucose hits the pancreas, this organ gets the message to release insulin, a hormone it produces to help the cells throughout the body use glucose. Cells have insulin receptors that allow glucose to enter and either be stored as future energy or used right away.

It's a great system. But a diet that's high in simple carbs like sugar, white flour, and sweet beverages -- especially when consumed in large quantities at one sitting -- overwhelms it. According to Reardon, the cells' insulin receptors eventually stop receiving the insulin, which means they can't take in the glucose. The glucose builds up in the blood while the needy cells don't get any. The pancreas, meanwhile, notes the glucose level is still high in the blood that flows through it, and it pumps out still more insulin in response. Net result: You feel sleepy and may find it hard to think, because your brain and body are depleted until the system rights itself.

"Over time, this cycle can cause someone to become chronically insulin resistant. The body simply can't keep up with the demands that all those simple sugars and fats are placing on it," Reardon says.

What helps: Slow your carb load. Choose more complex carbohydrates, such as whole grains (barley, oats, quinoa, spelt, brown rice), vegetables, and whole fruits (not juices) that the body has to work harder to digest. This means blood sugar stays stable longer. Move around right after eating -- take a 15-minute walk; even washing the dishes helps -- rather than plopping in front of the TV. The activity will help your body begin to process the big glucose intake faster and more efficiently. In fact, a Mayo Clinic study presented at the 2011 American Diabetes Association annual meeting reported blood sugar levels rose only half as much after eating in a group that was moderately active after a meal, compared to a control group that ate, then rested.
-------------------------------------------------
What dietary changes Ayurveda prescribes ?
Read in our Best seller e-book "Ayurvedic Cure of Diabetes"

Prediabetes Risk Factors
5 Signs - You Might Be at Risk for Diabetes
(By Paula Spencer Scott, Caring.com senior editor)

Incredibly, one in four Americans over age 20 has prediabetes -- and most don't even know it. Being prediabetic means that your blood glucose levels are higher than normal but short of being classified as diabetic levels. Studies show that most people with prediabetes go on to develop type 2 diabetes within 10 years, unless they lose weight and make dietary and exercise changes.

Because prediabetes develops gradually over years, it's often said that there are no obvious symptoms. But it's possible to notice certain warning signs of growing insulin resistance, the inability to process the energy in food properly that's a key aspect of prediabetes, says Beth Reardon, director of nutrition for Duke Integrative Medicine at Duke University.

Paying close attention to such warning signs gives you plenty of time to make changes before the situation progresses to type 2 diabetes, she says.

"These symptoms usually occur in tandem with one another; together they create a bigger picture that says insulin resistance is going on," Reardon says. "Some signs can be measured, some we feel, some we can just see."

If you're experiencing the following signs, you should ask your doctor about an insulin response test to measure your insulin and blood sugar levels. If the tests confirm that your body is starting to have trouble managing its glucose, it may be incentive for you to commit to the diet and exercise changes that can help move you away from the path toward diabetes.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------

If you have pre-diabetes, you can do something about it NOW ! 

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 permanently ???

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

Ayurvedic treatment for Age-related Macular Degeneration

Macular degeneration also called as Age related macular degeneration (ARMD) is an age
associated chronic eye disease and is a very common cause of reduced vision among
older individuals over the age of 55 years. The condition is characterized by degeneration
of light-sensing cells of the central region of the retina - the rnacula which malfunction
and eventually die, resulting in a gradual decline and loss of central vision, while
peripheral vision is retained.

Ayurvedic Treatment of Macular Degeneration
Ayurveda advocates certain practices in order to get rid of macular degeneration. Some of them are:
-- Ayurveda has recommended certain medicines to be very beneficial in case of macular degeneration. These are Amalaki, Triphala, Tulasi, Spirulina, Punarnava and Shatavari. 
These herbs are rich source of vitamins and acts as anti-oxidants.
-- Ayurveda suggests the consumption of yellow vegetables such as carrot that is rich in carotene.
-- Triphala, an ayurvedic medication is extremely beneficial for eyes.
-- Rub your eyes for 30 minutes gently in regular interval of time in order to relax them.
-- Avoid sitting near TV and computer for a longer period of time.

Use of Heavy Matals in Ayurveda
The community of Ayurvedic practitioners have reacted strongly to a report published by US health researchers a few days ago claiming documented evidence of lead poisoning risks among pregnant women who took Ayurvedic medicine. While they admitted that the Ayurvedic medicines did contain lead compounds - widely criticised by the US health researchers - the Vaidyas said that these compounds were present in miniscule quantities and served medicinal values rather than causing detriments.

“An integral part of Ayurveda is the ‘Rasa Shastra’ or the practice of intentionally adding metals, minerals or gems to the medicine,” said Dr K Murali, senior physician and superintendent of Kottakkal Arya Vaidya Sala. “However, it is not added in the raw form but is clinically and scientifically processed. In particular conditions, it is absolutely necessary to add lead compounds that are used as medicines in prescribed and miniscule doses.”

The promoters of Ayurveda also alleged that it was the half-baked knowledge of Ayurshastra, or the science of Ayurveda, that led to the misconception in the West. Said Dr Manoj Nesari, Joint Adviser (Ayurveda), Department of AYUSH, Government of India, “It is no secret that Ayurvedic medicine is about 20 per cent of mineral and gemstone origin. The eight formulations that have been alleged as potentially hazardous by the American Medical Association were studied and found safe by us. Ayurvedic medicines are based on a combination of hundreds of diverse molecules. Even turmeric has hundreds of basic formulations that work in hundred different ways. Going by the scope of modern chemistry, even turmeric would be toxic,” he added.

Read more about this topic here - http://ayurveda-foryou.com/heavy_metals/heavy_metals.html