Potential Of Ayurveda In Cancer

Abstract

Cancer is a words that spreads more fear and terror in the entire lexicon of medicine. This condition without any doubt demands more attention. Cancer is called neoplasia and Neoplasm means new growth. If you want a more meaningful definition then it can be said as 'a neoplasm is an abnormal mass of tissue. The growth of this tissue exceeds and is uncoordinated with that of the normal tissue and persists in the same excessive manner after cessation of the stimuli which evoke the change'. This can be understood as the abnormal mass which is purposeless and preys on the host. Cancer is one of the most dangerous diseases of the present century. In this we will discuss all about cancer and how Ayurveda plays its role in management of cancer.

Introduction

As mentioned before, in cancer there is abnormal growth of cells which spreads to other parts of the body. But discussing further about cancer, there is one thing that is to be kept in highlight and it is the difference between cancer and tumor. Tumor refers simply to a swelling that is present which is not having any cardinal signs like inflammation. It is just an overgrowth of tissues without being benign or malignant. On the other hand cancerous cells are capable of producing tumours swelling and cancer is a term for all malignant tumors. The features of cancerous cells are bleeding, swelling, pain and the malignant growths are associated with symptoms like weight loss of unknown cause, anorexia, prolonged cough and changes in bowel habits.

WHO (World) health organisation has also presented the recent data stating that there were 10 million deaths in 2020 and these 10 millions deaths were due to cancer alone. This 10 million accounts for the 1 out of 6 global deaths. Out of these big bunch of cancer cases only 30-50% were preventable.

Moving further lets understand how Ayurveda understands cancer

Ayurveda and Cancer

The Ayurvedic texts explain that cancer is described as an inflammatory and non inflammatory swelling. The entire system of Ayurveda works on Tridosha that is vata, pitta and kapha. The balance of these dosha are really important as otherwise it leads to occurence of many diseases and these three dosha are normal then it leads to the normal functioning of the body.

In malignant tumours, tridosha get aggravated and lose their mutual coordination that causes tissue damage, resulting in critical condition. Tridosha causes excessive metabolic crisis resulting in proliferation of multiple diseases.

Statistics regarding Cancer

The statistics of leading type of cancer are as follows:

• Breast cancer: 11.7% of all cancer deaths
• Lung cancer: 11.4% of all cancer deaths
• Colorectal cancer: 10% of all cancer deaths
• Liver cancer: 8.2% of all cancer deaths
• Prostate cancer: 7.3% of all cancer deaths
• Stomach cancer: 5.6% of all cancer deaths

Factors Enhancing the Occurrence of Cancer in Human Race

The factors include certain processed chemical foods, stress, environmental pollutants, infections, exposure to ionising radiation etc. These factors alter the gen cells in the body and scientifically many gene expression alterations are required before cancer develops.

Although initiation of cancer and progression are predominantly accelerated by acquired genetic alterations. It is very clear that micro environment related epigenetic changes play vital roles in neoplastic development.

Now the next question arises what is Epigenetics and what are epigenetics changes?

Epigenetics is defined as gene expression activity and expression that occurs without alterations in DNA sequences and is sufficiently powerful to regulate the dynamics of gene expression.

In Spite of the current scientific advancements and achievements this deadly disease has not been reduced.

Ayurveda's Role in Cancer

Ayurveda has a very great role in cancer and also manages it 50 times better than modern medication. Though the working of these two systems together gives more impressive results. Ayurvedic medicine and alternative therapy play a good role in finding the supreme causes of an illness and providing therapeutic approaches. There are four categories for this. The four categories are as follows:

• Rasayan chikitsa: This helps in establishing the normal functioning of the body.
• Prakritisthapan chikitsa: Effective in maintain the healthy state of body.
• Roganashini chikitsa: The treatment is effective in curing the disease.
• Naishthiki chikitsa: It is a way of treatment through spiritual approach.

The Ayurvedic approach to cancer treatment is highly effective to improve the quality of life and survival rate. The non- pharmacological therapy (Daivavyapashraya chikitsa) is the form of Adravyabhuta chikitsa which maintains the health and provides the cure of the disease in both ways physically and mentally. Adravyabhuta chikitsa with dravya bhuta chikitsa is a remarkable treatment procedure to get desired and optimum results in different pathological conditions. This also works for maintaining health and wellbeing. Various measures of the adravya bhuta chikitsa are yoga,mantra and pranic healing.

What can be done according to Ayurveda for immunity enhancement?

To improve the immunity of cancer patients, ayurvedic treatment along with healthy ahara- Vihara that is diet and lifestyle modifications gives very good results. The meditation involving chakras is one tool to offer the optimal quality life in cancer patients.

Now, the next question arises: What are Chakras and What is their role?

1. Chakras

Chakras are the "switches" in the path of energy flow in an individual which are representative of pranayama kosha and are subtle in nature. These chakra in the body create a human energy field around each human being. In addition, chakra healing is a highly emerging system of energy based healing techniques. This technique utilises the PRANA to balance, transform and harmonise the body's vital energy.

2. Chakras Meditation and their effect in Cancer

Chakras are described as centres of the subtle body. Each chakra is related to the physical body through activities of various glands and nerve plexuses. The anatomical correlation of each chakra to the nerve plexus and the glands is available in various ancient and modern texts. They are not made of nerves but are powerful and subtle centres of energy. Chakras are also an integral part of yoga. They create a human energy field around each human being which is scientifically proven.

The scientific evidence provides tangible proof of the existence of the body's energy and its relation to health and well being. There is a clear mention of treating prana (which is a bioplasmic body) in ancient science. According to various acharyas study of interactions between living organisms and electromagnetic fields, forces, energies, currents and charges. Bioenergetic medicine refers to the manipulation of bioenergetic fluxes to affect health in a positive way. It is the branch of integrative medicine that studies the science of therapeutic potential of subtle energies.

3. Balancing the Chakra

The balancing of chakras is a procedure that aims to balance and cleanse the life force energy in a person' body. These therapies can help people to relax and may improve quality of life. This can possibly be of great help in caring for cancer patients and reducing complications. The advancements in cancer management techniques leaves a huge imprint on a patient's mind and body. They are not only expensive but also harmful up to a certain level, thus hampering one at physical and mental level.

The Ayurvedic principle of maintenance, of health and curing the disease is the actual need required in the present age. Thus, devoted much of our days to chakra balance through meditation, yoga, aromatherapy, sound therapies, affirmations and praying may not be realistic for everyone but by being aware of these invisible chakras and signs of an imbalance, we can apply these new methods of self help.

Herbs For Cancer

Further in this article we will discuss certain herbs that are believed to have the best properties to enhance and maintain the body's immunity and also work on concising the effects of cancerous cells. These marvellous herbs are

1. Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera)

Ashwagandha is a very popular, potent and effective herb in Ayurveda. The herb belongs to balya and bruhiniya gana and to the solanaceae family. The body has three doshas that are vata, pitta and kapha. Kapha aggravation is the main reason for the occurrence of arbuda in human's body and vata, which is the kinetic energy of the body, is responsible for metastasis. Ashwagandha helps in balancing both of these doshas, reduces chances for cancerous cell development and also reduces the effect of cancerous cells in the body by limiting their proliferation stage and differentiation stage.

2. Giloy (Tinospora cordifolia)

Giloy which is also called as guduchi is having great effects in improving the immunity of the body. This herb is known to have tridosha (vata, pitta, kapha) pacifying properties and also possess analgesic properties as well. The extract of giloy is very useful in arresting the cancerous cells in the proliferating stage and prevents differentiation.

3. Tulsi (Ocimum sanctum)

Tulsi is a holy plant but besides being holy it is having a very useful effect in stopping the enhancement of cancer cells. Tulsi is rich in basil camphor and has eugenol that has cancer cells fighting properties. This chemical makes sure that the size of malignant neoplasm must not increase.

4. Haridra (Curcuma longa)

Haridra is one of the most famous herbs in Ayurveda and is easily found in each and every household kitchen. But its use is much more extensive than that. It is very famous for its kapha vata anulomana effect. The herb is having ushna veerya thus behaves as an analgesic and also possesses anti inflammatory properties. It works on the body by enhancing its strength and defence mechanisms.

4. Manjishtha (Rubia cordifolia)

Manjishtha is pittashamak but also has its impact in anulomana of kapha dosha. That is why it is really useful in cancer as well. Manjistha helps in enhancing the immune system and raises a very tough defence mechanism of the body. It has its impact on kapha due to its drying property and hot potency.

5. Amla (Emblica officinalis)

This herb also belongs to the vyavasthapan gana and to the euphorbiaceae family. The herb mainly works as an digestive stimulant and keeps the digestive fire ignited so that further accumulation of ama dosha or endotoxins do not take place and the body detoxifies easily. This herb also has immunomodulatory properties, protects the body from free radical damage and reduces the effect of chemotherapy as well.

6. Bhumi amla (Phyllanthus niruri)

Bhumi amla is a very well known herb that has great effect in strengthening the liver thus resulting in an enhanced defence system of the body. It is also a digestive fire balancer and is also helpful in all types of liver ailments including liver cancer. The herb also has antioxidant effects and prevents damage caused by free radicals.

Conclusion

Cancer is like a deep seated parasite in today's society whose cure is almost impossible to find according to modern science. But with Ayurvedic immunomodulatory herbs and deep concepts of cancer the cancer can be treated very well. Though its treatment is difficult but even impossible, it deeply means, "I'm possible". So, here Ayurveda gives hope to the people who are suffering from cancer and thinks that their life will end very soon.

Suran Vatak - Ingredients, Method Of Preparation & Uses

Introduction

Suran Vatak is a classical formulation mentioned in sharangdhar samhita. It is the perfect classical ayurvedic formulation for Arsha (Piles). Piles is a condition in which there is inflamed and swollen mass formed by the accumulation of tissue and veins inside and outside the anus. Piles occur due to chronic diarrhea, chronic constipation, heavy weight lifting, straining during passing stools and even pregnancy. As per ayurveda it is known as arsha. According to acharya vaghbhata, the mansankur (fleshy growth) which cause obstruction in the anal region and gives pain like the enemy is known as arsha. So now let's discuss all about suran vatak and its benefits in piles and other disorders.

Ingredients Used in Suran Vatak

• Suran (Amorphophallus paeoniifolius) - 16 parts
• Vidhara (Argyreia nervosa) - 16 parts
• Musli (Chlorophytum borivilianum) - 8 parts
• Chitrak (Plumbago zeylanica) - 8 parts
• Haritaki (Terminalia chebula) - 4 parts
• Bibhitaki (Terminalia bellirica) - 4 parts
• Amalaki (Emblica officinalis) - 4 parts
• Vaya vidanga (Embelia ribes) - 4 parts
• Shunthi (Zingiber officinale) - 4 parts
• Pippali (Piper longum) - 4 parts
• Bhilawa (Semecarpus anacardium) - 4 parts
• Pippali mool (Piper longum) - 4 parts
• Talish patra (Abies webbiana) - 4 parts
• Dalchini (Cinnamomum verum) - 2 parts
• Choti elaichi (Elettaria cardamomum) - 2 parts
• Marich (Piper nigrum) - 2 parts
• Gud (Jaggery) - Twice the amount of churna of the above ingredients

Description Of Ingredients

1. Suran (Amorphophallus paeoniifolius)

Suran (Amorphophallus paeoniifolius) is also known as elephant yam. It has pungent and astringent taste, light and dry qualities, hot potency, pacifies vata and kapha dosha and has arshogana as a special effect. It also helps in regulating blood flow which in turn regulates blood pressure levels. Also it helps in removing clots from the blood vessels so due to this it is effective in the treatment of piles.

2. Vidhara (Argyreia nervosa)

Vidhara (Argyreia nervosa) is also known as vriddha daru. It has great qualities such as rasayana and shukral. Which means it promotes anti-ageing and rejuvenating properties along with improving the quality and quantity of sperms. Other properties are sara (promotes purgation) so it prevents constipation that is one of the main causes of piles.

3. Musli (Chlorophytum borivilianum)

As per ayurveda musli has a benefits such as vrushya (improves vigour), rasayani (anti-ageing), bruhmana (nourishing) so due to all these properties musli provides its special reference in making this classical formulation effective as rasayana and vajikarana.

4. Chitrak (Plumbago zeylanica)

Chitrak (Plumbago zeylanica) includes properties such as deepaniya, shoola prashmana and arshoghana. All these properties make chitrak responsible for making suran vatak beneficial for improving appetite and enhancing digestion strength, also it is effective in relieving pain so helps in alleviating pain in piles also.

5. Haritaki (Terminalia chebula)

Haritaki has the properties that are very best as deepaniya (improves digestion health), anulomani (normalize the karma of apana vata- corrects bowel movements, urine output and other pravahana karma through anal, urinary and vaginal orifices). Both these properties are helpful in IBS like conditions and also helpful in relieving constipation.

6. Bibhitaki (Terminalia bellirica)

It includes great benefits like bhedana (good laxative properties), kasanashanam (relieves cough), keshya (improves the quality of hairs and prevents greying of hairs). Due to these properties it aids suran vatan to show miraculous effects in cough and graying of hairs.

7. Amalaki (Emblica officinalis)

Amala (Emblica officinalis) is panchrasa yukta [madhura (sweet), amla (sour), katu (bitter), tikta (pungent), kshaya (astringent)] and lavana (salty) varjita (not included) due to which it pacifies tridosha (vata, pitta and kapha and have raktapitta ghana properties (useful in bleeding disorders) and due to both these properties it is beneficial in piles. It includes other benefits also like vrishya (improves vigour), prameha ghana (cures diabetes and urinary disorders), rasayana (anti-ageing) and kanthya (good for the throat).

8. Vaya Vidanga (Embelia ribes)

Vaya vidanga (Embelia ribes) has properties like sara (promotes purgation), deepaniya (promotes digestion), pramehahara (cures diabetes and urinary issues).

9. Shunthi (Zingiber officinale)

Shunthi (Zingiber officinale) includes properties such as pungent taste, heavy, dry and piercing qualities and hot potency, due to these properties shunthi has great effect on pacifying kapha. Due to these kapha balancing properties it has benefits such as Viband hara (relieves constipation), anaha hara (relieves bloating and gas), shwasa hara (alleviates chronic respiratory diseases), kasa hara (cures cough).

10. Pippali (Piper longum)

Pippali (Piper longum) balances vata dosha and helps in improving digestion strength along with pitta avrodhani properties which means it prevents pitta to aggravate. It also has purgative properties that helps in relieving constipation which in turn aids to cure piles.

11. Bhilawa (Semecarpus anacardium)

Bhilawa has more effective function regarding kapha so it mainly responsible for making suran vatak effective for diseases such as prameha (diabetes and urinary disorders), kasa (cough), shoth (swelling), IBS, IBD and many other conditions associated with vitiated kapha.

12. Pippali mool (Piper longum)

It has carminative (relieves flatulence) and digestion promoting properties due to laghu and ruksha guna along with hot potency. Other properties of pippali mool are shleshma nashnam (reduces kapha), bhedi (promotes purgation), pleehanut (cures spleen enlargement), shwasahara (alleviates asthma), kshayahara (useful in chronic respiratory diseases and tuberculosis) and many more kapha relieving properties.

13. Talish patra (Abies webbiana)

It is best in relieving cough and mucus including respiratory conditions. Along with that it supports healthy digestion and eliminates ama dosha (toxins) from the body. Also it has agni deepaniya properties which helps in relieving anorexia.

14. Dalchini (Cinnamomum zeylenica)

It is the very best diuretic due to which it promotes a healthy urinary system by cleansing the bladder, fighting urinary infections and curing dysuria. Also it has great vata balancing properties thus helps in alleviating vataja arsha (piles associated with vata dosha).

15. Choti elaichi (Elettaria cardamomum)

Chotti elaichi is also very useful in relieving dysuria and urinary retention. Along with that it is very helpful in improving anorexia by promoting healthy digestion. With these benefits it also alleviates pitta dosha which in turn relieves all types of burning sensation in the body.

16. Marich (Piper nigrum)

This herb is generally having ruchikaraka properties which means it assists in relieving anorexia and promoting digestion strength. Marich (Piper nigrum) includes finest properties like katu and theekshana guna that aids in curing all types of kaphaja conditions.

17. Gud (Jaggery)

Gud is added to this formulation to make tablets. Otherwise it also has some health benefits like it cures splenomegaly and also has perfect relief in heart conditions by regulating blood pressure levels.

Method Of Preparation

1. Take sixteen parts of surana (Amorphophallus paeoniifolius) and vidhara (Argyreia nervosa), 8 parts of musli (Chlorophytum borivilianum) and chitrak (Plumbago zeylanica), 4 parts of Haritaki (Terminalia chebula), Bibhitaki (Terminalia bellirica), Amalaki (Emblica officinalis), Vaya vidanga (Embelia ribes), Shunthi (Zingiber officinale), Pippali (Piper longum), Bhilava (Semecarpus anacardium), Pippali mool (Piper longum), Talish patra (Abies webbiana), 2 parts of dalchini (Cinnamomum verum), Choti elaichi (Elettaria cardamomum), maricha Marich (Piper nigrum) and make a fine powder of all.
2. Now add gud (jaggery) twice the part of fine powder and make pills out of it.
3. Keep it in a dry and air tightened jar and use it accordingly.

Medicinal Properties

• Suran vatak helps in regulating blood flow which in turn regulates blood pressure levels. Also it helps in removing clots from the blood vessels and promoting healthy blood flow.
• Provides great qualities such as rasayana (anti-ageing and rejuvenating properties) and shukral (improves the quality and quantity of sperms).
• Helpful in nourishing and strengthening the muscles.
• Have bhedana properties which promotes purgation and cures constipation.
• Fulfilled with deepaniya properties that helps in inducing good digestion health.
• It also includes keshya properties which helps in preventing hairs from graying before old age.
• Have very finest kapha alleviating properties which helps in curing a number of kaphaja conditions like cough, cold, bronchitis, IBS, IBD, etc.

Dosha Karma (Effects on dosha)

It pacifies vata and kapha dosha.

Dosage

1-2 tablets twice daily or as prescribed by the physician according to the condition.

Classical Indications

Arsha Roga (Piles), Vata kaphaja grahani (IBS), Shwasa (Dyspnoea), Kasa (cough), kshaya Roga (Tuberculosis), Pleeha vridhi (Spleen enlargement), Shaleepada (filariasis), Shoth (swelling), Bhagandar (fistula in ano), Greying of hairs, Aphrodisiac, Tonic for mind, Rasayan (Rejuvenator).

Side Effects

There is no side effect of this classical formulation if taken in the prescribed form. So take it under the prescribed form by the physician.

Conclusion

Suran vatak is an ayurvedic classical formulation which is mainly indicated in arsha roga (piles). It is mentioned in sharangadhara samhita/Madhyama khanda/ch-7/Shlok No-28-33. Here in this study we explained all about suran vatak, how it is prepared, what are the ingredients used in this classical formulation. As we read earlier that it is best in curing piles also along with that it helps in alleviating other conditions also like high blood pressure, cough, diabetes, urinary problems, chronic respiratory conditions, vitiated gut health and curing IBS, IBD and constipation.

Ayurvedic Treatment For Complex Regional Pain Syndrome

Abstract

CRPS or Complex regional pain syndrome is a condition where chronic pain usually affects the leg or arm of a person. This syndrome generally develops after a surgery, injury, heart attack or stroke. Initial injury and the pain developed after it is out of proportion. CRPS is not a common condition and the cause behind it is generally not known. Early diagnosis and treatment can improve the prognosis. Remission can be seen in such cases after improvement. As this is a rare condition hence you might not be able to get proper information about it at one place. Hence this article is all about CRPS and its Ayurvedic management and treatment.

Introduction

Reflex sympathetic dystrophy syndrome is the other name given to Complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS). In this condition there occurs a chronic pain at specific location due to the high nerve impulses level sent to that affected part. Dysfunction in the peripheral nervous system or central nervous system is thought to be the cause of it. People between the age of 20-35 years are more commonly affected by CRPS. This syndrome is rare in elderly people and children. Men are less often affected by it than women.

Ayurvedic Aspect Of Complex Regional Pain Syndrome

As per Ayurveda the CRPS is caused due to the imbalance of Vata dosha or also known as Vata vyadhi. Neuromuscular or neurological disorders like CRPS are correlated with Vata vyadhi. Vitiation of Vata dosha results in numbness, pain and weakness.

Signs And Symptoms Of Complex Regional Pain Syndrome

Length and severity of the symptoms of the CRPS may vary in different people. However one common symptom of CRPS is chronic, intense and continuous pain in particular, which keeps on getting worse and does not get better with time. If the triggering factor is injury which means the CRPS have started after an injury then the pain occurring is out of proportion with the degree of injury. For example if the injury is only on the toe or finger, the pain may spread to the whole leg or arm. In extreme cases this pain may even spread to the other opposite extremity. There are some other signs and symptoms that can be found in CRPS like:

• Pain is of burning character
• Cold or touch sensitivity
• Affected joints become swollen and stiff
• Ability of moving affected part is decrease with motor disability
• Changes in hair or nail growth pattern like either there is no growth of hair or the growth is rapid
• Changes in skin, like temperature of the skin is affected. Skin of one hand is colder or warmer than the other hand. Color of skin also may become pale, blotchy, red or purple. There are also changes in texture making skin thin and shiny. Sometimes there is too much sweating on the skin.

Causes Of Complex Regional Pain Syndrome

Usually the cause of CRPS is not clear or known. It is unlikely to be caused by a single cause and there are multiple causes which result in signs and symptoms of CRPS. There are many theories like sensitivity to a group of nervous system messengers, i.e. catecholamines of the affected body part become high. Whereas when the CRPS is triggered by injury then the cause is said to be an autoimmune reaction of the body resulting in an inflammatory response causing warmth, redness and swelling of the area affected. Other than injury CRPS can be triggered by infection, stroke, heart attack, cancer, pressure on a nerve or neck problems.

Diagnosis Of Complex Regional Pain Syndrome

No specific test can diagnose the CRPS however certain tests are used to rule out other similar symptoms causing conditions. Changes in blood circulation and bone can be identified by triple-phase bone scans. Your doctor will take case history and may also use a heat, cold, touch stimulus to check whether the pain is in a particular area. Initially the symptoms are mild or few, it is difficult to confirm the diagnosis of CRPS. However the presence of a triggering factor, signs and symptoms and absence of any other probable cause will help in confirming it.

Treatment Of Complex Regional Pain Syndrome

As CRPS is generally considered to be incurable hence the conventional treatment given for it includes physical therapy, psychotherapy, medicines like narcotics, topical analgesics, corticosteroids, antidepressants, antiseizure drugs and osteoporosis medicines. Other treatment measures include sympathetic nerve blocks, surgical sympathectomy, spinal cord stimulation and intrathecal medicines.

Ayurvedic Treatment For Complex Regional Pain Syndrome

As there is vitiation of Vata dosha in Complex regional pain syndrome, hence the Ayurvedic treatment is given to restore the balance of Vata dosha and eventually health. This can be done by different Ayurvedic measures like svedam (fermentation), abhyanga (oil massage), pain relieving lepa and Ayurvedic remedies to restore balance of Vata.

Herbal Remedies For Complex Regional Pain Syndrome

Planet Ayurveda is a renowned herbal company and store which deals with production of herbal and natural remedies and products as well as further their application for the treatment of patients by experienced Ayurvedic doctors. All these remedies are purely herbal and vegetarian and free from chemicals, preservatives, additives, dye, colors, fillers or yeast. For CRPS Planet Ayurveda offers a combination of herbal remedies.

Products List

1. Ashwagandha Capsule
2. Musli Strength
3. Rumogin 5 Capsule
4. Yograj Guggul
5. Nourish-Maxx Powder

Products Description

1. Ashwagandha Capsule

These Ayurvedic capsules are prepared using a single medicinal herb Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) in standardized form. Ashwagandha capsules help in preventing injuries to muscles, strengthen them and treat overall weakness.

Dosage: Take 1 capsule twice after meals with plain water.

2. Musli Strength Capsules

Musli strength capsules give strength to the muscles and help in their healthy functioning. These capsules are prepared using two medicinal herbs, Safed musli (Chlorophytum borivilianum) and Gokshura (Tribulus terrestris).

Dosage: Take 1 capsule twice daily after meals with plan water.

3. Rumogin 5 Capsule

These capsules are made using herbs like Shallaki (Boswellia serrata), Sonth (Zingiber officinale), Pippali (Piper longum), Haridra (Curcuma longa), and Maricha (Piper nigrum). Rumogin 5 capsules help in promoting healthy muscles and bones, and strengthen them.

Dosage: Take 1 capsule twice daily after meals with plain water.

4. Yograj Guggul

Yograj guggul is composed of guggul (Commiphora mukul), Haritaki (Terminalia chebula), Ela (Elettaria cardamomum), Devdaru (Cedrus deodara), Pippali (Piper longum), chitraka, Jeeraka (Cuminum cyminum), (Plumbago zeylanica), Ardraka (Zingiber officinale), Mustaka (Citrus rotundus), etc. These Ayurvedic tablets help in strengthening bones and muscles, prevent damage to them and help in treating injury caused to them.

Dosage: Take 2 tablets twice daily after meals with plain water.

5. Nourish-Maxx Powder

It is prepared using Safed musli (Chlorophytum borivilianum), Shatavari (Asparagus racemosus), Gokshura (Tribulus terrestris) and Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera). As the name suggests Nourish Maxx powder nourishes the whole body and aids healing.

Dosage: Take 1 teaspoon twice daily with normal water.

Conclusion

It can be difficult diagnosing and treating CRPS but early diagnosis with proper observation and correct treatment can improve the prognosis of the condition.

Natural Ways to Detox and Boost Your Immunity

Detoxification And Immunity

There are numerous toxins all around us to which we are exposed on a daily basis like lead, biphenyls, polychlorinated, fluoride, chlorine, cyanide, pesticides, formaldehyde, antibiotics, steroids, copper, ethanol, mercury, dioxins and ethanol. Toxins are in the exhaust of your car that you drive, chemicals used in the daily household work to clean your home, in environment pollution and drink and food that you take. These toxins are everywhere around us and it is almost impossible to avoid exposure.

All of these toxins negatively affect your health and immune system. Although when you are healthy and your immune system is strong, these toxins are removed automatically from your body with the help of the natural detoxification system of your body. But when there is excessive accumulation of these toxins, it causes weakened immunity and natural detoxification also doesn't work properly. Hence when the body is not detoxified, your immunity is low and which makes you more vulnerable to illnesses. There are certain signs of toxicity which means toxins have been accumulated in your body and you need a detoxification like catching frequent cold and flu, overall sluggishness or fatigue, headaches, digestive troubles, pain in joints, hives or rashes and toxicity can even affect your mental health causing depression and anxiety.

However you don't need to worry as luckily there are many simple ways which can help in flushing these toxins out of your body and boost your immunity eventually. Let's get to know about some of them:

1. Eat wisely - You should be very well aware and cautious about the source of food, type of food you eat. You must avoid any kind of processed and packaged food instead must get your food from natural and fresh sources. Your diet should include about 50% of vegetables in your daily diet as they are rich in fiber and phytochemicals. Also minimize intake of red meat, take organic products over conventional ones.
2. Immune booster and detoxifying herbs - There are various herbs which can help in natural detoxification of your body and boost your immunity. Gotu Kola helps in improving memory, enhancing mood and promoting anti inflammatory response. It also helps in relieving stress, supporting circulation and balancing hormones. Turmeric helps in detoxification of the body owing to its antioxidant property and anti inflammatory property. Another helpful herb can be shilajit, as it gives body strength and longevity. This herb also boosts immunity as it possesses antioxidant, antiviral and anti inflammatory properties.
3. Drink filter water - As normal tap water contains many pollutants hence you must drink filtered water. Also remember to change your filters timely.
4. Less chemically loaded cleaners - While buying household cleaning products you must keep in mind that they should not be very much chemical loaded which harm your health more than microbes that you want to clean off with them.
5. Get outdoors - Going outdoors is not only good for your mental health but physical health as well as outdoor air is much cleaner than indoor. As outdoor air contains less carbon dioxide than air in your home or room which affects your sleep and productivity. Try to visit a park or forest once in a while as the air there is full of organic compounds and phytoncides that is emitted by plants and trees and helps in boosting your immune system. Open spaces, forests and open water sources are full of negative ions that help in reducing inflammation in the body.
6. Bring in natural plants - Plants purifies the air naturally hence bringing some of them inside your home can help in cleaning the air inside. There are certain plants which are much more efficient in purifying air like Areca palm, bamboo palm, lady palm, ficus, rubber plant, dracaena, English ivy, peace lily, boston fern and dwarf date palm.
7. Stay active - As we have seen during the days of complete lockdown the air pollution has come down to much lower level as most of us were staying inside and not driving our vehicles. You should try to walk and cover smaller distances instead of taking your car or motorbike, this will not only reduce the air pollution but also help in keeping you physically active, which is very important. Staying physically active oxygenates your tissues, improves circulation, and enhances the lymphatic system work. All of these actions synergistically help in clearing the toxins from the body. Detoxification and immunity have a very ancient connection with Ayurveda. As detoxification has been done in Ayurveda to enhance immunity for thousands of years. It is not a new trend but an ancient practice which has now become much more popular. Ayurveda follows individualization protocols that help in meeting the unique demands of different bodies. In Ayurveda prevention of health and boosting of immunity includes maintenance of balance of the tridosha, i.e. Vata, Pitta and Kapha with the help of Dinacharya (daily regimen) and Ritucharya (seasonal regimen). There are many benefits of Ayurvedic cleansing and detoxification, like:
• As it is individualized, i.e. personalized as per the needs of the body, Ayurvedic cleanses are very effective.
• Ayurvedic cleanse is natural and holistic in nature which helps in enhancing the health of all aspects of the body, i.e. mental, physical, spiritual and emotional.
• There are three stages in Ayurvedic detoxification, i.e. pre cleanse, actual cleanse and last post cleanse rejuvenation or Rasayana that boosts the immunity.
• Ayurvedic cleanse is a gradual process and is not a quick fix as extreme and quick fixes can be good for some time only and later on they can cause muscular weakness, disturbed digestion, compromised immunity and degeneration.

Hence, you must have understood till now that the body is meant to heal naturally but taking the wrong diet, improper lifestyle and external environment can alter this. So if you must follow the above given self help tips and if you are feeling the signs and symptoms of toxicity, contact an Ayurvedic physician and go for detoxification to boost your immunity in a very healthy way. Take a healthy diet, follow a balanced lifestyle and you'll see the difference.

Healthy Drinks For Refreshing And Cool Summer

Abstract

Summer is the upcoming season. In ayurveda, all seasonal life styles and ayurvedic diet plan is explained by the aacharya. A year is divided into two kaals. Adaan kaal (Uttarayana) and Visarga kaal (dakshinayana). Each season lasts for 2 months. Each kaals mainly consists of three ritus. Adaan kaal consists of shishir ritu (winter season), vasant ritu (spring season) and grishma ritu (summer season). Visarga kaal consists of varsha ritu (rainy season), sharad ritu(autumn season) and hemant ritu (pre-winter in season). In adaan kaal – the sun and the wind are very powerful. During this time the energy level is very low. So we have to take drinks that boost our energy. Now we will discuss the various drinks and smoothies that should be given to individuals according to the dosha. Now the summer season has come. We have to face various problems like lethargy, loss of energy in the body. Let's start!

Introduction

Now the summer season has come. In the summer season, we are so excited to play and travel in hilly areas. With this we also have to take care of our body because during this season there is a loss of energy and also a decrease in the diet of individuals. During this time there is a loss of water and electrolyte from the body so we have to take care regarding the fluid loss in our body. So we have to drink adequate water the whole day.

Adaan Kaal

During this time the sun wards off all the energy from the individual body and the sun also wards off the cooling qualities of earth. Therefore there is a loss of strength from the body. So the individual feels lethargic and exhausted the whole time.

Grishma Ritycharya (Summer Season)-

It mainly starts from mid may to mid july. This season is extremely hot and the environment is prevalent with unhealthy air. During this season all the rivers and lakes are dried up. All the plants are liveless and all the strength of the individual becomes weakened. During this time there is a deposition of the vataj dosha in the body but the kapha dosha is quite relaxed during the season. Agni of the individual person remains in the mild condition. During this season we have to avoid lavan rasa, katu rasa and usna foods. At this time we have to balance the vata dosha because as we said already that during this season, there is a deposition of vata dosha.

Diet Routine During Summer Season

At this time light processed food should be taken. In ayurveda, it is said that during summer season – madhur (sweet) snigdha (unctuous) sheeta (cool) and drava (fluid) rich food should be taken. During this season, drinking lots of water and different fruit juices like cola water, mango, buttermilk etc. At the time of sleep you should have milk with sugar. At last lavana and food with katu rasa (sharp) amla rasa (acrid) and usna nourishments are evaded.

Life Style Followed In Summer Season

• During the season, you have to keep remaining in the cooling spots like river areas, water parks etc.
• Applying the sandalwood and all other aromatics pastes all over the body to keep yourself calm.
• Wearing light clothes and take sleep at the day time which is useful for individual health. Take a night sleep in the fresh air.
• AVOIDANCE of Excessive workout, alcohol intake and sexual intercourse should be avoided.

Intake Of Fluids Accordings To Dosha And Prakriti

In ayurveda mainly three types of dosha and prakriti are explained as we know there are three types of the dosha is – vata pitta and kapha. Prakriti is also of three types – ekdoshaja, dwidoshaja and samdoshaja -

1. Vata Dosha

In ayurveda it is correlated with free space in the body. Vata dosha is predominant at the time of old ages (after 60 years) It links with the movements and change. It is predominantly correlated with the nervous system, controlling breathing and with the blinking of the eyes. People who have -dominant vata dosha individual are more energetic, creative and flexible. They have fine hair and dry skin. Vataj people easily change their moods. Their emotions include anxiety, fear and nervousness. They are mentally active and quick talkative. Vataj people have complaints of mostly joint pain.

Vata Diet

Vataj individuals should take a diet which increases the kapha qualities like heaviness and smoothness because it balances the coldness and lightness of vataj gunas. In ayurveda, individuals have moist and heavy goods that digest easily.

Juice And Smoothies Recommended For Vataj Individual

1. Banana with fresh lemon juice and cilantro.
2. Green mango juices with lime pepper and salts.
3. Fresh juice of the seasonal fruits like mango, grapes, cucumber and beet roots.
4. Spicy green lassi
5. Watermelon juice.
6. Papaya shake and juice.

2. Pitta Dosha

This dosha is prominent at adults age (30 - 60YEARS). It is a bodily energy that mainly comprises fire with some water. It helps to regulate digestion of food and it also links with immunity, body metabolism and the body temperature. Pitta also associates with transformation and activity. It is said to be oily, intense and sharp.

Juice And Smoothies For The Pitta Dosha Person

1. Fresh juice of apple, pomegranate, plum, red grapes and aloe vera.
2. Watermelon and lime
3. Cucumber and coconut juice
4. Sugarcane juice

3. Kapha Dosha

It mainly contains water and earth in its composition. It provides stability in the body and moisturizes the skin and it heals the wound. It also had links to the lubrication and structure.

Juice For Kapha Individual

1. Juice of the apple, cranberries, blueberries, pear, cucumber etc.
2. Peppermint cocoa shake
3. Orange juice
4. Mint berry juice
5. Peach and strawberry juice

In ayurveda it is important to balance the dosha in the body that will maximize the positive effect in the body. If there is imbalance in the dosha then it causes a negative effect in our body. When all dosha are in the same proportion then it is known as sam dosha prakriti.

Conclusion

Summer is a season of happiness and joy. During this season the temperature is so warm. So we have to take care regarding this. During this time individuals have to take more fluid orally. Here we explain the intake of fluid according to dosha and keep yourself fresh and calm. In summer every individual feels lethargy and exhausted the whole time. To prevent this you have to take a light diet which can be easily digested. During this our digestion fire becomes mild or weak. So we have to take more oral tests. We have to spend more time in cool and calm areas like gardens, water parks, and hilly areas to keep ourselves fresh. In summer our energy level is very low so we have to boost our energy by taking fresh juice, fruits, and smoothies which are good for our health and prevent our body from fluid and electrolyte loss. So we have to follow ayurveda in our day to day life. It makes our body healthy and free from various diseases.

Ayurvedic Aspect On Cervical Dystonia

Abstract

Cervical Dystonia, whenever we hear such terms, our first reaction is to know about what exactly it means? Is it dangerous? Is there any treatment for this disorder? And if you are here then yes! You'll get all the information you're looking for. First of all, we must know about the region where the problem occurs. This disorder is related to the muscles of the neck region. Dystonia basically refers to abnormal posture or position of muscle. Here, the cervical is related to the neck. In this article we will get to know in detail about Cervical Dystonia and its treatment with ayurveda. So let's have a look!

Introduction

Cervical Dystonia is a neurological disorder caused due to the brain sending abnormal signals to muscle, which causes abnormal contraction of the neck. It is identified by involuntary muscle contraction. It causes abnormal twisting of the head and neck to one particular side. It is commonly of focal base i.e. one sided. "Spasmodic Torticollis" is synonym of cervical dystonia. "Torticollis" itself defines very clearly – "Torti - twisted" & "Collis - neck"

In this disorder posture of neck may be either:

• Tonic - Stiffness of muscle with head turned right or left.
• Clonic - Twitching or jerking of muscle.
• Tremulous - Shaking or trembling of muscle.

The movement can be intermittent, spasmodic or constant. Sometimes jerking motions of the head also occur. If you are suffering from any kind of stress and lately suffering from any kind of emotional issues it can add to your problem. Symptoms start appearing gradually, become severe and sometimes they go away but most of the time these persists.

The involuntary muscle contraction causes your head to twist in a various different directions, mentioned below:-

• Chin towards shoulder
• Ear towards shoulder
• Chin straight up
• Chin straight down

Signs and symptoms of Cervical Dystonia

The major and challenging symptom is pain and discomfort due to disturbed posture of the neck. Pain starts gradually at first, if treatment isn't taken properly then it may get worse later.

Patients could be suffering from tremors or jerking motion of head, twisting of the head & chin sideways; head uncontrollably tilt forward or backward.

Other symptoms appear listed below:

• Headache
• Neck pain radiates to shoulder
• Hand tremors
• A raised shoulder
• Involuntary blinking of eyes
• Fatigue
• Cramps in legs
• Difficulty in speech

Causes of Cervical Dystonia

Cervical Dystonia can occur at any age but usually it occurs in middle age. As a comparative study suggests women get easily affected as compared to men. Patients affected by Cervical Dystonia can be classified on the basis of etiology into two groups:

• Primary Cervical Dystonia: Idiopathic – either genetic or sporadic (cause not known). Due to mutation in genes this can occur as it causes chemical imbalance that leads to induce abnormal signal by the brain towards the muscle.
• Secondary Cervical Dystonia: Acquired or symptomatic.

It could be caused:

• Due to exposure to certain kinds of medication.
• Any kind of injury to the head, neck and shoulder.
• Stroke
• Neurological disorder
• Environmental or emotional damage to the brain.
• Poisoning due carbon monoxide or lead.

Factors affecting the disease

Risk factors for Cervical Dystonia include the following:

• Age: Mainly middle aged people get affected. If any young person is getting affected he/she could get investigated as soon as possible.
• Sex: Women get easily affected as compares to men.
• Family history: If a close family member had cervical dystonia or some other type of dystonia, possibly you are at risk of being affected by cervical dystonia.
• Gene mutation: Having one mutated gene appears to be sufficient to cause the chemical imbalances that may lead to cervical dystonia.

Diagnosis

Cervical Dystonia is generally diagnosed by the symptoms appearing with respect to doctor's evaluation.

Treatment

The treatment of cervical dystonia:

• Physical techniques like physiotherapies or other sources.
• Some specific kind of drugs and injections to relieve tension and pain in the muscle.

In ayurvedic perspective

Cervical dystonia can be compared to Manya Stambh in ayurveda. Manya Stambh is described as stiffness in the neck region and according to ayurveda it is also considered that "vata" is also responsible for this condition. Imbalance of vata can cause twitches, tremors and spasms.

Herbal Remedies for Cervical Dystonia by Planet Ayurveda

Planet ayurveda is a globally recognized firm practicing the ancient and traditional system of medicine of India- ayurveda. Planet Ayurveda provides best herbal remedies to the patient as it extracts pure raw material from best quality herbs and makes 100% genuine products with no side effects and they do not contain any artificial flavors. They provide rapid and satisfactory results. Planet Ayurveda gives the best overall result since 20 years. Planet ayurveda provides effective remedies such as Ashwagandha capsules, Brahmi Capsules, Boswellia Curcumin, Yograj Guggal, Aamvatantak Churna, Giloy Capsule for ayurvedic treatment of cervical dystonia.

Products List

1. Ashwagandha Capsules
2. Brahmi Capsule
3. Boswellia Curcumin
4. Yograj Guggul
5. Aamvatantak Churna
6. Giloy Capsules

Products Description

1. Ashwagandha Capsules

These capsules are the best dietary supplement for maintaining health and wellbeing. These capsules contain Ashwagandha (withania somnifera). Ashwagandha capsules give strength to neck muscles and relieve the tension of muscles and calm down the system. It is a nerve tonic as well as enhances mental stamina. It is the best herb for balancing Vata in the body.

Dosage: 1 capsule twice daily, with plain water, after a meal.

2. Brahmi Capsule

These capsules help to support a healthy mind. These capsules contain standardized extract of Bacopa Monnieri (Brahmi) that gives effective results in neurological disorders. Brahmi is a very effective herb for pacification of Vata Dosha which is the root cause of cervical dystonia.

Dosage: 1 capsule twice daily, with plain water, after a meal.

3. Boswellia Curcumin

These capsules help to support the overall health of the individuals. These are best used as anti-inflammatory drugs and brain edema. These also help to maintain the health of the bones and joints of the individuals. These act as a pain reliever. These also help to pacify the Vata Dosha. These capsules contains Shallaki (Boswellia Serrata) and Curcumin (curcuma longa)

Dosage: 1 capsule twice daily, with plain water, after a meal.

4. Yograj Guggul

Yograj Guggul is available in tablet form. These tablets are used to treat this painful disorder to a huge extent and provide support to various organs of the body. It helps to maintain a balance between the Vata energy of the body. These tablets contains long pepper (piper nigrum), Tejpata (cinnamomum tamala), Talispatra (Abies webbiana), coriander (Coriandrum sativum), Ginger (zingiber officinale) etc and other various herbs.

Dosage: 2 tablets twice daily with lukewarm water.

5. Aamvatantak Churna

This herbal powder helps to maintain the digestive system. It also helps in managing the "Ama" Dosha of the body. These are perfectly natural and vegetarian in nature. This churna pacifies Vata effectively. This churna contains Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera), Methi (Trigonella foenumgraecum), and Gorakhmundi (Sphaeranthus indicus), among various other herbs.

Dosage: 1 teaspoonful twice daily after meal with plain water or aloe vera juice.

6. Giloy Capsules

These capsules help in maintaining the overall health of the individuals. Giloy has a property of anti-inflammatory, blood purifier, digestive and anti- arthritis. These are purely natural and vegetarian in nature. These capsules help in supporting a healthy immune system. Giloy (Tinospora cordifolia) is the ingredient herb of these capsules.

Dosage: 2 capsules twice daily after meal with plain water.

Conclusion

The Ayurvedic principles consider that "Vata" is the causative factor behind all the types of diseases. As we discuss the imbalance of Vata Dosha causes the stiffness of muscle and other factors unbalancing the body so Ayurvedic treatment is very reliable for patients as ayurvedic medicines are capable of balancing the Vata Dosha and helps in maintaining the overall health of individuals. Ayurvedic medicines are purely natural and high qualities of herbs are used to prepare the medicine. Ayurvedic treatment is a safe and natural process to manage health.