All posts by Dr Rajesh Nair

Irritable bowel syndrome- Ayurvedic medicines

January 31, 2008 Dr Rajesh Nair Leave a comment

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Ayurveda, an ancient system of medical system, believes that Irritable bowel syndrome is caused mainly due to accumulated toxins because of improper digestion. Stressed filled life also indirectly contribute to IBS. It emphasis that it can be treated by a little changes in the diet, lifestyle, yogic practice (yogasanas, breathing techniques, meditation) along with the intake of ayurvedic medicines which are in the form of herbal formulas.

They are the nutritional supplements which helps rectify imbalance of doshas.
But consult a ayurvedic practioner as each individual body is unique. Herbs helps mainly in strengthening the digestive process and flushes away the toxins and they have more anti oxidant actvity. Kaidaryadi qwath, Kaidaryadi tab, Pippalysavam, Indukantam tablet, Dadimadi choornam, Vaiswanara choornam etc are the medicines. Also following too are used to treat IBS.

Vrukshamla, Amlavetasa, Dadima and Badara in the form of powder along with trikatu (Pippali, Shunthi, Black Pepper), five salts added with sugar can be used with vegetables, pulses, cooked cereals.

Always while take soups (raddish soup. Ceraeal )with black pepper and add Panchakola to it.

Triphala capsules (Terminalia bellirica, Terminalia chebula, Emblica officnalis gaertn is very helpful in detoxitification process and it strengthens the whole gastro intestinal tract thereby helping to treat IBS.

Ayurvedic Trikatau special rasayana is effective one for fighting IBS. Home remedy that is recommended by ayurveda is ginger and amla.

Herbs like Peppermint (has anti-spasmodic actions), Fennel, Chamomile, Caraway are safe when used in correct dosages.

Diarrheal IBS can be treated by rhkutaj ghan bati, Higwashtak churna, Kapoor ras etc.,

Constipation I.B.S are taken care by Avipatiikar churna, Trifala Churna, Haritaki Churna, Caster oil, oshnodak Bastee and other.

Wind in stomach I.B.S are treated by . Chitrakadi bati, Lashunadi bati, Madur Kshar with Neembu swaras.

To attain a balanced mind which indirectly helps to fight IBS, Ashwagandha churna, Saraswat churna, Maha sudershanadi churna Brahmi churna should be taken.

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Irritable bowel syndrome- Ayurvedic concept

January 31, 2008 Dr Rajesh Nair Leave a comment

In Ayurveda, an ancient Indian system of healing, wrong and irregular food habits, nervous imbalance, stressed life style, low immunity, non adherence to the natural rhythms of body and negative emotions like jealousy, anger, hatred leads to deranged agni which is the main cause of Irritable Bowel Syndrome.

i.e, Jathara agni (digestive fire) found in the small intestine helps in breaking down the food in the smaller molecules to be digested easily. If it is weakened due to above reasons, it leads to indigestion or malabsorption or ama(toxins) and if it is strong a burning sensation can be felt.

* Digestion is ruled by Jathara Agni by the support vata, pitta and kapha in its own unique manner. Any imbalance in it affects the role of that particular dosha in the digestive process and in the end affects the function of the other doshas in digestion and manifestation of IBS.
Aggravation of doshas leads to deranged digestive fires i.e, Vata dosha leads to Vishama Agni, Pitta aggravation leads to Tikshna Agni and aggravated Kapha leads to Manda Agni.

IBS which is categorised under Grahani, occurs due to one or more of dosha imbalance and it weakens the duodenum. According to Ayurveda, duodenum, helps in digestion and also hold it until it is properly digested and then it allows it to be passed through colon where it is excreted. Its inefficient functioning leads to either releasing its content earlier or retain the content for a longer period. So an alternating loose bowel and constipation occurs which is the main symptom IBS.

Ayurveda aims at eliminating the toxins and restoration of proper digestion and it helps in bringing back the basic strength and immunity of the body thereby treating IBS in a natural way.

Irritable bowel syndrome- causes

Ayurveda, a prehistoric healing medical system, emphasis that Irritable bowel syndrome is caused by the imbalance of nervous system for which modern life style indirectly contribute. One has to work towards restoring the “agni” (digestive fire) which is deranged by a wrong life style and food habits.

** Diet – Consuming a wrong combination of foods, unhygienic food, being irregular in our meal times, not giving required importance to atmosphere while we eat, not taking care to eat a wholesome and a nourishing food, not giving much time while we eat, not chewing it properly before swallowing all contribute to IBS.

** Also Lactose intolerance, gluten intolerance, consumption of alcohol, carbonated drinks, chocolates, beverages, hot spicy foods also plays a big role in creating IBS.

** Non adherence to natural body pattern – As we all know that we cannot be active all 24 hrs a day and the body needs rest by sleeping for a minimum number of hrs so that both body and mind can have a sufficient rest. But no amount of sleep with a disturbed mind will be beneficial to the body. Hence take care to sleep deeply and for sufficient time.

** Psychological disturbances – Emotional disturbances like anxiety, fear, stress etc is not good for body. Negative emotions like anger, jealousy, hatred all lead to deranged agni which is main cause of IBS.

** Drinking less water or low immunity of the body, poor digestion or unabsorbed sugar in the body all leads to IBS.

** Sedantary life style that does not have required physical activites.

** Senstive people often have a GI distress when they are unable to cope up the situation, feeling out of out control, having a low energy level, f eeling non aligned to ones real self all lead to IBS.

Ayurveda helps one to cope up with the life that is shattered by IBS, by advising one to change his life style to suit his individual body constitution.

Irritable Bowel Syndrome – Diet and Lifestyle

Ayurveda, an oldest Indian medical tradition, believes that all disorders, can be treated by a making required changes in the diet and lifestyle leading to amotional/physical/spiritual balances which are also most vital for treating Irritable Bowel Syndrome.

Its recommends the following :
** Reduce the intake of gas producing, fatty foods, vegetables like onions, cabbage, beans etc.
** Avoid artificial sweeteners, fat (Olestra), Coconut milk, Egg yolks, Fried Foods, Oils, Poultry skin and dark meat, Red meat, carbonated drinks, alcohol, chocolate, coffee. Find out if your body is allergic to lactose. If so. avoid it.
** Drink a plenty of liquids everyday. Drinking a lot of water helps.
** Adhere to regularity in taking food and do not skip meals at any cost.
** We are all aware of the importance of taking a nourishing diet, in the same manner equal importance to be given to eat in a quiet and a respectful atmosphere. You should learn to treat eating as a sacred activity.
** Don’t watch television or read or talk during at your dining table and don’t bring up any serious issues while you eat.
** Change the style of your intake habits by enjoying and chewing it well. Dont overeat. Use proper food combination. Rest for a minimum of 20 minutes rest after each meal (in vajrasana).
** Try having five small meals instead of three large meals everyday. It is during noon hour the agni, the digestive fire, tends to be strong, hence have your largest meal during that time.
** Be regular in your exercise regimen as they help to keep you collected in midst of this present stressful life and stimulates the intestinal contractions.
** Pracice yogasanas which helps in strengthening digestive system, provides emotional balance.
Ayurveda helps one to find out each persons constitution and provides advises on diet and life style and helps one to balance body’s energies.

IBS – Yoga management

Ayurveda, an art of living, firmly believes that nervous instability due to vitiation of vata dosha causes Irritable Bowel Syndrome. Improper digestion and a stressed life are said to be main reason of IBS. The autonomic nervous system along with hypothalamus in the brain controls the food movement through bowels. If we are stressed it affects the mental state thereby causing symptoms of IBS.

** Yogic practice like like Angle Balance, Stick Posture, Supine Knee Squeeze, Pose of Tranquillity, Pose of a Child, The Cobra, Half Moon, Spinal Twist, Half, Sun Salutations, Humming Breath, are necessary to improve the digestion.

** Apanasana gives a gentle massage to the abdominal area thereby improves digestion. Regular yogic practice of abdominal breathing heals the pain of the IBS sufferers and one is advised to inhale and exhale deeply. Abdominal twists like Jathara Parivrtti (a revolved twist) of abdomen helps in bowel movement. Asanas like Uttanasana (Standing Forward Bend) or Parivrtta Trikonasana (Revolved Triangle Pose) are highly recommended.

** Aerobic exercise are helpful as it is warming and helps in building digestive strength. Swimming, Skating, bicycling, dancing, skating, walking, rollerblading are also recommended.

** Agni Sara is an exercise in hatha yoga and if one practices daily will be blessed with a strong digestive power, provides with energy and leads to a clarity in thought process..

** If there is disturbance in the flow of prana or life energy.( an upward flow (udana), a downward flow (apana), a balancing movement around the navel (samana) it leads to IBS. Inverted postures help in the apana releasing, deep relaxation in pranayama stabilizes the samana.

** Meditation helps to harmonize the energy glows and reduces the stress related problems.

Thus Yogic practice which includes physical postures (asanas), breathing exercises (pranayama), and meditation treats IBS by striking at its root cause.

IBS – Naturopathic treatment

IBS basically is a common disorder of the intestines that leads to cramps, gassiness, bloating, and changes in bowel habits.
From a naturopathic viewpoint the symptoms and treatment of IBS may be related to five key areas:
1. Food allergies – The most common food allergies are wheat, dairy, citrus, and the protein in rye, oats, corn and soy. Alcohol, coffee, tea and smoking can also be stimulants to the bowel and should be avoided.
2. Deficiency of enzymes – Enzymes are present in saliva and are released from the pancreas to assist in breakdown of proteins, carbohydrates and fats.
3. Improper bacterial balance – If you have taken antibiotics previously, tend to overeat carbohydrates, you may have yeast overgrowth and need to kill off bad bacteria in order regain healthy bacterial levels in the digestive tract.
4. Stress – Anxiety, depression and stress tend to be associated with IBS. Feeling down may happen due to upsetting bowel symptoms, but may also suddenly occur and aggravate the problems. IBS symptoms may also increase stress because of fears that a person has a serious disease.
5. Irritation of the digestive tract wall – If there is an imbalance of any of the above listed items, the digestive tract walls may become irritated and very sensitive and need to be healed and soothed.
Naturopathic treatment involves dietary measures to avoid food triggers, and improve the digestive process generally. It may involve an elimination diet to find out what foods are causing you the most problem. It is essential to drink adequate water. Herbal treatment, vitamins and mineral supplements are very good for improving the digestive system, calming the intestinal spasms as well as addressing the nervous system generally. Stress management may be beneficial too.

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Osteo arthritis- Ayurvedic concept

January 31, 2008 Dr Rajesh Nair 1 Comment

According to Ayurveda, an ancient medical science, Osteoarthritis a degenerative joint disease occurs due to aggravation of VATA, and is known as Sandhigata vata.

Vayana vata dosha, one of the five types of vata dosha (dosha of air and empty space) governs the entire body and mind movements, like blood flow, heart pulsation, breathing and the thoughts in mind.

Vata has a dry and light qualities and its vitiation leads to imbalance of kapha dosha, depleting the syniovial fluid, that provides cushion and lubrication to the joints. This depletion leads to osteoarthritis in which the cartilage in the joints wears away causing friction, pain and limited joint mobility and affects the large weight-bearing joints, like the hips and knees, also hands,feet, and spine.

Symptoms of this disease are edema, pain, tenderness, stiffness, pain on work etc. It also starts with ageing and the following factors contributes to the vitiation of vata dosha

** Consuming dry, cold or stale food, not regular in sleeping habits, suppressing natural urges. ** Getting exposed to asevere cold and dry weather.
** Excessive travel, leading a vata aggravating life style and undergoing mental trauma.
** Exerting oneself excessively on the joints or any accident which occurs in the joints.
** When the food we eat, is not digested properly it causes ama (toxins) which weakens the colon and it circulates through whole body and gets accumulated in the bones and joints.

Ayurveda treats Sandhigata vata by modifying the diet, lifestyle, recommends light exercise, and advises one to undergo Panchkarma and Purvakarma detoxification techniques. It also uses appropriate non toxic ayurvedic herbs which helps in lubricating the cartilages within the joints thereby strengthening it.

Osteoarthritis – Diet and Lifestyle

Ayurveda, an ancient Indian medical system believes that Osteoarthritis occurs when the cartilages in the joints wear away leading to pain and debility and is mainly due to the accumulation of vata dosha which is characterized by the dryness in mind and body.

Suggested diet and life style to treat osteoarthritis are :

** Do mild weight bearing exercises regularly as they improve bone density.
** When certain yogasanas are done with rythming breathing techniques they increase the tissue building and improves the strengthening and stretching of the muscles around the points.
** Not to indulge in any type of work that involves standing for a long time.
** Not to climb stairs or bend or squat. Walking a little distance may help.
** Biking, swimming or aerobic dances helps to improve the bone condition.
** Avoid alcohols, cigarettes, carbonated beverages
** Take food that is rich in calcium like cheese, orange juice, leafy vegetables. Cereals etc.
** Drink milk regularly as it has vitamin D content in it.
** Take a lot of vitamin K rich foods such as lettuce, spinach, Brussels sprouts etc.,
** Take care to consume only freshly cooked warm food and take hot soups of lentils, pulses and meat with ginger, black pepper and long pepper powdered sprinkled to it..
** It is essential to include a moderate amount of ghee and oil in diet as it lubricates the joints.
** Avoid taking food that are sour, spicy, deed fried, oily, pungent, acid, dark poultry, refined sugar, femented food and also lessen the intake of salts.
** Also follow some basic rules of not eating wrong combination of foods, eat only up to your limit, Strictly follow the timings of your eating and do not eat in between the meals.

Practicing meditation regularly calms down the mind and treats the dryness of mind which has a lasting effect to fight the pain.

OA- Ayurvedic management with medicines

Osteoarthritis which is known as sandhigatavata in ayurvedic medicine may occurs due to some particular food, poor blood circulation, dryness or a low nutrient supply to the joint. It is caused by the inflammation and loss of cartilage and affects the joints of knees, hips, lower spine, fingers and toes.

It can be managed by
** Eating lot of vegetables, freshly cooked foods, hot soups of lentils, pulse, moderate quantity of ghee and oils to lubircate the dried joints. By avoiding oily and deep fried foods.Doing a regular mild exercise programme to enable the joint to move and prevent further damages also by notindulging in any hard job which may damage the joints. Daily massaging with the mahanaraya oil is used to calm down the vata dosha.

** Ayurvedic drugs aim to reduce the vitiated vata and also improves the kapha and pitha funcitons. The main drug that is recommended to treat this degenerative disease is Karaskara. Sahachara, bala, devdar, shallaki etc are also used. Main preparations used are qwath, arishta and ghrit.
** In order to cleanse the toxins from the colon Triphala, which is a mild laxative is given.
** Trikatu is given to enhance the digestive fire
** Guggul helps to strengthen the bone tissue.
** In order to control inflammation of the joints, Ayurveda suggests Boswellia gum or phellodendron bark and scute root and it is used in combination with myrrh gum, fang feng root, qin and jiao root.

Commonly used medicines are Sahacharadi qwath, Guggul thikta qwath, Maharasnadi qwath, Rasnerandadi qwath, Balarishta, Dhanwantharishta, Karasakar ghrit, Guggul thiktaka ghrit, Shadpala ghrit. Ashwagandha, Bala.

Osteoarthritis – Management with yoga

According to Ayurveda, an integrated system of living, the imbalance of Vata dosha is the chief cause of Osteoarthritis (Sandhigata) which gives raise to inflammation and pain in the joints.

Accumulated negative toxins called ama (undigested waste) in the colon which occurs due to the emotional and physical disturbances when settled in the joints give rise to OA.

Yoga tries to the manage this degenerative disease by including all spheres viz., physical-mental-moral-spiritual in the following manner.

** Stressed life, worries, tiredness, disturbed sleep leads to a state of improper digestion and yoga helps one to overcome all these.

** The mild body movements and gentle pressures of the yogic postures keeps the affected joints mobile and prevents further damage and reduces pain. Stretching postures done with rhythming breathing techniques helps one to relax and release the muscles that are crumpled around the joints.

** When the patient experience pain due to inflammation in the joints, pranayama (breathing technique) is to be practiced as it removes the accumulated toxins leading to reduction in pain, after which one can do sun salutation. First do the warm up exercises then hold a posture that helps in building strength and flexibility of the body and finally do the Shavasana (relaxation pose).

** Strength building asanas build muscles around the joints and helps in nourishing it. Flexibility yielding asanas open up the joints and increase the blood, oxygen and energy circulation. Shavasana done after the above two asanas is used to rejunevate to heal the body based on the energy one has acquired from above postures.

** Energizing and warming pranayama like Kapalabhati pranayama and Ujjayi Pranayam are highly recommended. Asanas for hip OA are Virabhadrasana, Parsvottanasana, Vrkasana Utthita Trikonasana etc.,

** Cyclic yoga exercises based on Suryanamaskara, burn extra calories. Abdominal exercises improves digestion. Yogic postures along with breathing exercises makes an physiological and psychological impact. Then do Shavasana which helps in regulating the mind. This sequence in doing asanas helps one to restore the balance of vata dosha thereby treating OA at its origin.

OA – Panchkarma Management

According to Ayurveda, a holistic way of living, Oestoarthritis, a chronic degenerative disease affecting the cartilages of joints can be treated by Panchakarma. It stops future deterioration of the joints and helps to rejunevate the damaged joints by normalizing the vitiated doshas.

It is Detoxification therapy which first aims to loosen and mobilise the accumulated toxins which is achieved by both internal and external oleation using herbal oils and steam. Appropriate procedures are then used to eliminate these toxins resulting in the rejunevated tissues Then the cell tissues are treated with nourishing diet and ayurvedic herbal formulas to strengthen the muscles and boost the immunity.

Pre-purification therapies like snehapanam, swedhanam loosens the toxins and makes the body ready for eliminating the wastes. Main purification therapy like vasti and virechanam are used to eliminate the toxins that are loosened in the earlier stage.

a) Snehapanam – Two types of this are accha and vicharana. In Accha snehapanam
A specially prepared medicated ghee is administered in empty stomach. The dosage is given up to seven days according to the patients condition and climate. It is increased proportion to the signs of the optimum condition felt. This helps to lubricate all the body channels and elimate the toxins.

b) Swedanam – Here fomentation is done with the medicated decocation vapours and is applied to the affected areas with rubber tube. In Upanaha sweda, substances like salt, oil, herbs are cooked. It is then bundled and then applied firmly to the affected joints while hot.

c) Virechanam – Then it is followed by Virechanam which is a method of purgation by oral intake of herbal formulas. In this the toxins found in gastro intestinal tract are flushed out through anal route.

To mention few other treatments for OE are
** Elakizhi – Body is applied in blouses with hot medicated oils.
** Njavarakizhi – A body massage in blouses with highly nutritious rice along with herbs.
** Pizichil – Massaging the body with a continuous pouring of medicated oils.
** Dhara – (Thakra Dhara & Ksheera Dhara) – Herbal oils and medicated butter oils are poured in the forehead.

Panchakarma treatment along with a modified diet and complete rest will yield a great result in treating OA.

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Fever in children – Ayurvedic concept and management

January 31, 2008 Dr Rajesh Nair 1 Comment

Ayurveda an ancient medical system, jwara (fever) can be said as the body’s natural way of burning ama (toxins) and one should not suppress it but if it goes beyond 102 degrees then one should take care to lower it

During fever, body tries to digest ama (toxins) and protect itself. In this process excess heat is produced which is tolerated by the body and it will not exceed the body limit. To bring down the fever we take some antipyretic drugs which break the above process and at that time our body will use its full potential to treat the ama and at times this will lead to fits.

Usua;;u convulsions (fits) occur occur with high fever (usually at temperature > 40oC), but may also be seen at lower temperature when there is a sudden rise in body temperature and are seen in children between 6 months and 6 years.

Children are often prone to fever due to their weak immunity and hence one should treat fever with ayurvedic herbal and dietary guidelines to support and strengthen their immune system. In children fever is associated with kapha dosha which is just opposite to pitta qualitites which has a symptoms of low apetite, nasal or chest congestion etc.,

** Children should be made to take ample rest.
** They should drink a plenty of warm liquids to support the digestive fire and elimination of ama .
** Cold sponging to be given incase the fever is more than 101 F.
** Warm ginger tea kindles agni and Tulsi tea when taken before bed time works wonder by lowering the fever by promoting sweat.
** Home remedy for lowering fever can be done by rubbing fresh onion juice to the child’s navel region.
** Also apply a cool cloth to the forehead to protect the brain.
** Mahasudarshan is also very useful for high fevers.

As children are very delicate it is always better to consult an ayurvedic physician before treating them.

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Fever – Ayurvedic concept

January 31, 2008 Dr Rajesh Nair Leave a comment

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Ayurveda, an ancient healing system refers fever as jwara, a condition in which the body condition goes beyond the normal temperature and is characterized by disturbance in normal functioning of the system.

** It believes that it is due to disruption of any one or all the doshas or energy fields within the body system and if not attended immediately might damage other parts of the body.

** It classifies fever in to eight types which ranges from internal to external to parasitic to seasonal and mental and that if the fever chapter is completed then half of treatment is over.

** The main symptoms of fever are a raise in body temperature, chilly, sore throat, body stiffness, muscle aches, headache, disturbed digestion, lack of appetite etc.,
.
** Improper agni (digestive fire) leads to indigestion resulting in ama (toxins) which block the channels in the body which further leads to the blocking of the fire in different tissues resulting in fever.

** Fever according to ayurveda occurs when the digestive fire (agni) and digestive toxins (ama) which are normally found within the gastrointestinal tract are thrown out of their place by disrupted doshas and then they overflow into the blood and lymphatic system. Its circulation in the body causes the typical symptoms like high temperature, heaviness etc. Because of this the tridoshas are further irritated and it spreads throughout the blood stream. When supplemented with its own heat plus the heat of the misplaced agni, the temperature of the body raises can causes the symptoms of fever.

** During a high body temperature, Ayurveda suggests to have a cold sponging, an easily digestible liquid diet and a complete rest.

Fever – Lifestyle and Diet

Ayurveda, a holistic healing system believes that fever is caused due to disruption of doshas and hence it advises following modified lifestyle and a light diet to bring make the body fit enough to recover from fever.
It believes fasting along with rest is better for the betterment of fever. It refreshes each and very cell of our body and the entire alimentary canal is swept away. A strong person can have a total fasting but if he is weak then he can have light diet.

** Avoid sweets, ice cream,sweets, oily and spicy foods.
** Take care to drink a lot of barley water, hot water, vegetable soups.
** Boil ginger with water and jaggery can be drunk.
** Take a lot raw fruit like apple, orange as it purifies the body and dispels ama
** Drink juices of pomegranate, lemon, pineapple and apple.
** Orange has more vitamin C which provides strength to fight further infections.
** Turmeric when added to warm water and drunk prevents and cures fever.
** Drink ayurvedic herbal tea.
** The juice of tulsi leaves can be used to bring down fever.
** Don’t take bath till you are completely recovered from fever.
** Don’t over exert with heavy exercises or any physical activity and avoid sex.
** Avoid exposure to extreme cold or hot weather.
** Ample Rest both to the body and mind is a must
** Cover the patient with a blanket as it makes him to sweat thereby brings down the fever.
** Quit smoking and avoid taking alcohol.
** Avoid taking cold water, better to take boiled water that is cooled down.
** Try to remain calm and be without any mental stress.

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Fever – Ayurvedic Management

Ayurveda, a holistic medical system, emphasis that fever is due to tox¬icity in the rasa dhatu (the body’s basic vital tissue) and manages fever by Fasting (langana), Sweating (swedana), Waiting/Patience (kala), Light diet (yavagu), Bitter drugs (tikta bheshajam), Detoxification (ama pachana).

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

** Sweating – One can drink a simple spicy tea to induce sweat or he can be covered with a blanket so that he is made to sweat as this process clears toxins, raises the body temperature that kills the virus and normalizes the body temperature.

** Light Diet – After the body achieves the normal temperature he should take three meals upon a well balanced/light diet of fresh fruits and raw/lightly cooked vegetable according to his age.

** Bitter Ayurvedic drugs – Burns ama, increases the white blood cell count which help the body to fight infections. Commonly used medicines are Dasamoola kaduthryam qwath, Amruthothram qwath, Indukantham qwath, Dhanwantharam qwath, Amrutharishta, Sudarsanasava, Dasmoolarishta, Vettumaran tablet, gorochanadi tablet, gopichandanadi tablet, sooryprabha tablet, sirasooladi vajra rasam, laxmi vilas rasam, ananda bhairava ras, etc

** After fever the patient is advised to undergo a Detoxification (mild purgative regime – Panchakarma) treatment as it expels remaining ama and strengthens the digestive system. Then he undergoes a preventive regime which will reduce the chances of reoccurance of fever,

Thus Ayurvedic manages of fever is done by restoring the agni in the body and enhancing the proper metabolism. It also suggests yogasanas like suryasana and matsyasana to be practiced to pacify the aggravated pitta dosha which is the root cause of fever and meditation helps to deal with fever with a balanced and clarify of mind.

Fever & Yoga

According to ayurveda, an ancient medical system, increased body temperature is due to vitiated pitta and a low digestive fire. It believes that a regular yogic practice along with a modified stress free lifestyle, ample rest, herbal preparations and light diet helps body to fight fever symptoms.

Some yoga practices that can help to reduce pitta and strengthens digestive system are

Asanas : Cool, regulare, Chandra namaskar, Syrya Namaskar, Veerparit Karani, Sharvangasana, Matsyasana aids in keeping the body fit to fight fever.

Pranayama : Sheetkari, Sheetali cools mental, physical, emotional systems and reduces internal heat. It reduces stress, anger, also stimulates and assists in digestion which is the main reason of fever. Deep breathing or regular practice of anuloma viloma pranayama can also prevent fever. Kapalabhati or skull-shining breath is a breathing exercise that cleanses the entire respiratory system, helping to eliminate large quantities of carbon dioxide. There are many benefits of meditation such as the relaxation of the body from tension caused by nerves and muscles, the decrease of mental restlessness, and the purification of the mind

Dhyana : Finding the time of day when your fever symptoms are mild and meditate for atleasr 5 to 10 mintues is highly beneficial. When you practice dhyana like Antamouna, Dhauti, Ujjai it has a relaxing effect and it regulates breathing pattern and improves respiratory function. Though meditation during fever is difficult it offers a clarity of mind and helps to eliminate the feeling that your life is being controlled by fever.

According to Ayurveda, fever helps to increase number of white blood corpuscles, which being part of our immune system, put up a defense against disease-causing pathogens like viruses and hence advises to practise yoga to improve immunity against possible infections and stay healthy.

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Sinusitis – Ayurvedic view

January 31, 2008 Dr Rajesh Nair 1 Comment

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Ayurveda, a holistic way of living, views Sinusitis as a inflammation or infection of the mucous membrane lining the nasal sinuses which leads to pain in the sinus cavities, sinus headaches, nasar discharge, loss of sense of smell.

It involves some component of pitta, the fiery humour. However, provocation of either vata or kapha within the sinuses also can give rise to pitta irritation of the mucous membranes. Sinus infections thus can be regarded as either vata, pitta or kapha in nature, each type having specific causative factors and symptoms.

** Ama originates from improperly digested toxic particles that clog the channels in body and it contributes to an increase in phlegm (certain fluids other than blood) which is the substance associated with one of three transporting systems or humors called doshas: kapha, pitta, and vata.

** Kapha is the transporting system for Phlegm which is critical to maintain health. The normal mucus lining all of the membranes of the body is protective, and lubricating. When the agni of the digestive system is weakened, kapha has an overabundance of some undesirable fluids and it accumulates in the several potential sites, like sinus which is disturbed due to pollen, smoke, emotional upset.

** The prahna vata becomes agitated by the obstruction of phlegm, as it is unable to maintain smooth flow (it is said to be vitiated) and is transformed into an agitated flow, like the wind.

** When these two sub-doshas are simultaneously imbalanced, Ama, gets mixed with Shleshaka Kapha in the sinus area, forming an even more toxic, sticky mucus called Shleshma which settles in the area and clogs the channels of the sinuses. Due to the restriction and blocking, Pitta dosha also becomes imbalanced, and inflammation results.

Ayurveda aims at treating the Sinus disorder which is caused by the three doshic imbalances viz., a deficiency in pitta (as it manifests in the agni of digestion), an excess in kapha (as it manifests in mucus), and a disturbance of vata (as it manifests in the breath).

Sinusitis- Lifestyle and Diet by Ayurveda

Ayurveda, a science of life, treats Sinusitis which mostly affects the IT, marketing, corporate personals, by making them aware of the need of a healthy life style, diet, exercise and mental activities.

Suggested life style and diet modifications to prevent sinus are

** Drink a plenty of distilled water and fresh juices.
** Take all vegetables. except tomatoes, cucumbers, sweet potatoes and zucchini.
** Take a lot of pungent, bitter taste natural items and light, dry and warm foods.
** Lighter fruits, such as apples and pears, are better. Reduce heavy or sour fruits, such as oranges, bananas, pineapples, figs, dates, avocados, coconuts and melons.
** Avoid eating dairy foods, except for soured products like yougurt and cottage cheese,
** Reduce heavy, oily, cold foods and sweet, sour and salty tastes.
** .Reduce intake of barley and millet. Avoid takinf too much wheat or rice.
** Hot liquids help the mucus to flow, relieving congestion and sinus pressure.
** Honey is excellent but try to reduce sugar products.
** Low-fat, boiled milk is better..
** Lot of Garlic to be included in diet.
** Cleansing fast is very important.
** Avoid using strongly scented hair oils/body oils and perfumes.
** Stay warm in cold, damp weather. Avoid naps.
** Eucalyptus oil can be used in a steam inhalation.
* Retire to bed early and try to rise early. On getting up practice vigorous yoga asanas, like Sun Salutation, Fish, Locust, and inversions followed by pranayama and meditation.
** Take a warm shower after a full body seasame oil massage.
** Be detached from material world and learn to go of emotional upsets.

Above ayurvedic tips guides you to explore your true nature and helps you to be compassionate with your own self and treats sinus at its root by reinstating the imbalanced doshas,

Sinusitis- Management with Ayurvedic medicines

Ayurveda an ancient system of healing places equal emphasis on mind, body and spirit and it believes that Sinusitis can be well managed if the digestion is improved by protecting the agni (digestive fire). Ayurvedic medicine seeks to re-establish balance and harmony in the body’s systems by suggesting modifications in diet, yogic practice, meditation, medicated inhalations and herbal products.

Diet :
It is highly advisable to take fresh and green vegetables, fruits and cereals. Take care to include more garlic, onion, ginger, cinnamon in your diet. Drink plenty of water and fresh juices. One should avoid eating chocolates, junk foods, oily foods etc., Also take care not to have milk and its products. Reduce intake of barley and millet. Avoid taking too much wheat or rice.

Yogic practice :
A regular exercise improves the internal fire and circulation, stimulate metabolism, and sharpen the mind which thereby strengthens agni, that results in an improved digestion and thus helps in fighting sinus disorders.
If one practice to chant the mantra “OM” by focusing on the mind, its sound vibrations helps to keep the sinuses healthy.

Meditation :
Sinus disorders leads to mood swings. Regular practice of meditation helps one to balance irritated body and mind.

Panchakarma :
Nasya is one of the panchakarma theraphy for treating Sinusitus The excess of body humors that are accumulated in the sinus area is got rid by means of the nearest opening, the nose. Nasya involves the administation of herbalized oils and liquid into the nostrils and is very useful for treatment of kapha-oriented problems, of ear, eyes, nose and throat disorders such as sinusitis.

Herbal products :
Commonly used medicines are Pathyshadangam qwath, Varanadi qwath, Abhyarishtam, Partharishtam, Sirasooladi vajrarasam, Saina tab, Cephagraine drops and Tablets, Dasamolla harithaki, Kalyanagulam etc.

Sinusitis- Panchkarma management

Ayurveda, a holistic healing system recommends Nasya, one of the five therapies of Panchakarma treatment for treating Sinusitis. It is the application of medical oils or powders through the nostrils. The nose is the channel for the head and if the medicines are applied through the nose it will reach the cavities of the cranium near to the nose and eliminate the accumulated mucous and stimulates the nerve endings by which vata, pitta, kapha will attain balance.

1)
Types of Nasya in terms of the form of medicines used for administration are :
a.Virechana Nasya – administers medicated lubricants like oil, ghee, various herbal decoctions or honey
b.Dhamana Nasya – administers powder (Churna) and not fluids
c. Brumhana Nasya – administers medicated oils, Juices of herbs
d. Shamana Nasya – administers demulcents in small dose.

2)
Types of nasyam in terms of the measurement and time of application are :
a. Marsa nasyam (ghee or oil ) which has several specifications and quantity is more.
b. Pratimarsa nasyam (daily oil nasya) are used in small measures and is usually done in children, aged, emaciated week persons and in rainy days This helps to open deep tissues and can be done everyday to release stress.

3)
Procedure :
*** Forehead, cheeks and neck region are massaged gently with medicated oil followed by fomentation.
** Then the Patient is advised to lie down in a specific manner and few drops of sterile medicated oil are introduced through nostrils and the patient has to lie down in the same position for 5 more minutes. After this, throat, cheeks, forehead are again massaged softly.
** The patient can feel a great relief in the head and clarity of the sense organs, breathing becomes completely unobstructed.

4)
Indications for Nasya:
tress emotional imbalances stiffness in the neck & shoulders, dryness of the nose sinus congestion, hoarseness, migraine headache, convulsions.

5)
Contra-Indications for Nasya:
Sinus infections, pregnancy, menstruation, after sex, bathing, eating or drinking of alcohol should not be used below 7 years or over 80 years of age

Daily administration of Pratimarsa nasya is recommended for the IT, marketing and corporate personals who are more prone to stressful life and insomnia.

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Headaches – Causes Ayurvedic View

January 31, 2008 Dr Rajesh Nair 2 Comments

Ayurveda, a natural healing system refers headache as “Siroroga” It firmly believes that the doshic imbalance leads to tenstion, fatigue, anxiety and upsets at the physical and motional level which is the main cause of headache.

a) Insecured feeling, fear that is not attended, anxiety in this uncertain world, constipation, neck and shoulder tension, back stiffness are the main cause of vata headache.

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b) Unresolved anger, not able to tolerate certain happenings or persons, jealousy, envy, judgment, stress, imbalances in the stomach and intestines such as indigestion, hyperacidity leads to Pitta headache. And it is worsened by intake of sour fruits, hot and spicy food.

c) Greed, possessiveness, depression, Sinus congestion, colds, flus and other allergies causes kapha headaches and it is worsened when we bend down and it attacks one in the morning and evening in winter and spring season.

d) Headache may be due to some other infection like common cold, fever, ear infection, flu, tooth infection, sinusitis , Pneumonia, excess cough, dyspepsia, eye conditions, hypertension, thyroid disease, anemia.

e) Sometimes stressful working condition, insufficient sleep, excessive comsumption of beverages, nervous weakness, deficiency in blood, reading with insufficient light, reading in a moving vehicle too can be cause of headache.

e) Polluted environment, extreme and prolonged exposure to hot and cold weather, foul odors can trigger headache.

f) Suppression of natural desires, sudden weather changes, head injury etc are other common causes of headaches.

g) It might also occur due to side effect of any medication.

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Pain Management – Ayurvedic way

January 31, 2008 Dr Rajesh Nair Leave a comment

According to Ayurveda a holistic way of living, chronic pain is caused by doshic imbalances and is influenced by many factors like diet, digestion, toxin accumulation, stress, exercise levels and daily routine

1) Removing the Buildup of Toxins and Impurities
Ayurvedic herbalized oil massages helps in loosening impurities that are embedded in tissues and helps liquefy them for easy absorption into the circulation and eventual elimination of pain.

2) Proper Nutrition
Ayurveda advises a easy to digest and a satisfying and nourishing dietary approach that improves the digestion along with ayurvedic herbal formulas which helps in restoring balance to the specific functioning modes whose malfunctioning causes the chronic pain.

3) Creating Strong Digestion
Incompletely digested foods create toxins and impurities that are eventually absorbed, travel throughout the physiology, localize in tissues and disrupt their functioning leading to a chronic pain which is treated by a proper use of spices and cooking oils, by favouring digestion-enhancing foods, by reducing digestion-depressing foods.

4) Balancing Nervous System Activity
Vata imbalance is an underlying cause of the painful condition and is reversed by specific diets, herbs, cleansing programs, meditation, yoga asanas and yoga breathing exercises.

5) Stress Management
Excessive mental, emotional and physical stress can worsen the symptoms of many chronic pain. Ayurveda treats it by massage and heat treatments by yoga asana postures

6) Lifestyle and Daily Routine
One of the most important factors for maintaining healthy functioning is to have a lifestyle that does not disturb natural bodily rhythms. Ayurveda reviews and creates a daily schedule that will increase balance in your physiology and aid in healing your body.

7) Exercise and Flexibility Education
Ayurveda advises proper stretching and flexibility exercises as it has a very positive effect on circulation, nervous system function, the body’s healing response thereby treats many chronic pains.

Thus ayurveda manages the chronic pain by approaching it in the above integrated manner and its results speak for themselves.

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PAIN – Ayurvedic Concept

January 31, 2008 Dr Rajesh Nair Leave a comment

According to Ayurveda, an ancient Indian Holistic medical system ‘Health is happiness and disease is Pain’ and it understands pain as a problem in vayu (air, one of the personality types according to ayurveda), which deals with the nervous system and any pain on the body is refered as Roga. Site of Pain (Vedana) are Mind (manas) and Body along with sense organs.

a) Causative factors of any pain are :
** Asatmendriyarth samyoga -. It includes excessive utilization or wrong Utilization of objects of senses like vision, Sound, smell, taste and touch) Agni is responsible for proper appetite and digestion of food. Anything in excess (activity, diet, exercise etc) cause derangement in jatharagni (appetite). It is unable to digest the food. Hence undigested in the stomach and gets infected by doshas. This is Aama. This aama gets fermented producing toxins and thus acts as a poison for the body.
** Prajnaaparadha – Misdeeds performed by an individual as a result of wrong decision taken by the mind
** Parinama (kala) – Any unfavourable changes in weather and time

b) Classification of Pain are :
** Nija Agantuja – Caused solely due to derangement of physiological disturbances
** Sharirik Manasik – Physiological disturbance & Psychological imbalance

c) Pain caused solely due to derangement of three humors :
** Vataj Vikara – Caused due to derangement of Vata dosha
** Pittaj Vikara – caused due to derangement of Pitta dosha
** Kaphaj Vikara – Caused due to derangement of Kapha dosha
Contrary to all indications, there is a positive side to pain. It is the body’s riot alarm. Without its warning signals, we would succumb to the mildest of maladies. Ayurveda imparts knowledge on individual constitution of our body and use of various herbs, minerals,proper diet, exercises, Panch Karma and Yoga therapy to treat pain and promote good health, treat pain and acquire longevity.

Pain and age- ayurvedic view

Ayuveda the ancient medical system terms old age as “Vardhakya” which begins from the age of sixty, as it is in age, the process of degeneration begins, and the body succumbs to various pain, both in mind and body.

Holistic science suggests along with medications for combating the diseases, a will power to accept the unpleasant changes in the body also plays a major role in combating diseases/pains.

From an ayurvedic perspective, vata which is the principle factor for initiating body functions like locomotion, respiration, excretion, metabolism, digestion etc., gets aggravated during old age and hence the normal functions of the body gets disrupted. As a result there is a massive change in the psychological, physiological and pathological aspects in the body. These days most senior citizens are increasingly prone to various diseases like hypertension, diabetes which leads to chronic pain in their body.

Various factors contribute towards aggravating vata during old age, like physical stress and strain, irregular food habits, nutritional imbalances and so on. Along with this, there is the natural feeling of insecurity that creeps in during old age. The elderly people require love and affection from their kith and kin in order to remain psychologically fit.

Rasayana therapy along with the following points are to be considered by the elderly people to cope up with all the physical and psychological pains/discomforts.

DIET- A balanced diet like Green leafy vegetables, carrot, apple, gooseberry and orange are rich sources of antioxidants is very essential as it plays an important role in alleviating pain that are caused due to diet imbalance.

LIFESTYLE – Ayurveda suggests a daily routine in accordance with laws of nature (prakruti) for preventing any sort pain as one gets older.

HERBAL OIL MASSAGE – helps in controlling vata, increases blood circulation and removes toxins from the body.

Also it is equally important that in daily routine, yoga, aerobics exercises, simple walking or meditation, should definitely be incorporated as it increase immunity of the body according to individual’s constitution which promotes blood circulation, burns calories and reduces stress thereby reduces pain.

Pain Management- Yoga and lifestyle

According to Ayurveda, an ancient healing system, pain can be managed by a regular yogic practice and a modified lifestyle as it calms the nervous system which is believed to be the root of any sort of pain.

Yoga relieves from depression, stress, helps in muscle flexibility, stamina, lowers fat, improves blood circulation, lowers bad cholesterol levels and makes the mind calm which is the best exercise to get rid from the pain. Its goal is to develop a balance of strength and flexibility within the body.

If the body undergoes any pain pituitary glands produces endorphins and encephalins which are the harmones that support the central nervous sytem. And it is proved that Yoga helps in the stimulation of pituitary glands thereby releasing these harmones helping one to have more tolerance to the pain.

Following a healthy Life style one balances the vitiated doshas and can prevent many painful conditions.
** Diet – should be nourishing,fresh, hot, usually cooked, tasty and easy to digest
** Proper regulated sleep – is important to maintain a balance of various function in the body.
** Regular exercise – improves the body by reducing the excess fats and prevents many painful disorders.
** By showering Love and affection to everyone your blood pressure really is dropped which aids in pain relief.
** Meditation helps to be a calm and composed person, which helps the body to be better equipped to fight against many chronic pain.

Thus by following above ayurvedic tips, the Tridoshas are balanced, and individual is able to manage pain on all levels viz mental, physical and spiritual.

Pain Management – Ayurvedic way

5) Stress Management
Excessive mental, emotional and physical stress can worsen the symptoms of many chronic pain. Ayurveda treats it by massage and heat treatments by yoga asana postures

Thus ayurveda manages the chronic pain by approaching it in the above integrated manner and its results speak for themselves.

Mind – Seat of pain

Ayurveda, a traditional Indian Medicine system believes that the imbalance/pain originates in the mind in the form of some negative emotion which in turn the affects the body. It emphasis that the doshic (vata, pitta, kapha) imbalances usually rest upon an excess of Gunas (rajas or tamas), which in turn reflect deeper karmic disharmonies leading to pain.

Traditional Ayurveda recognizes below mentioned factors as the main causes of any sort of diseases/pain :

a) Doshic imbalances, either by constitution or by external factors :
The doshas as they accumulate as toxins have negative emotional components like Vata as fear, Pitta as anger and Kapha as attachment. Pain of any type first imbalances Vata, so pain management of any type will involve a strong component of anti-Vata consideration.

b) Excess of rajas and tamas in the mind.
The three gunas are mainly psychological factors with rajas as ego-driven impulses and tamas as deeper emotional blockages, insensitivity or addictions.

c) Karmic factors or results of previous actions.

Ayurveda thus has an integrated approach to treat any sort of pain by

** removing the doshas and increasing sattva guna but also eliminating the negative karmas which sustain them in our own behavior.

** calming the chitta (mental disturbances), developing the buddhi (discriminating intelligence), controlling the manas (outer mental activity) and reducing ahamkara(ego).

Ayurveda teaches us to harmonize the mind and to return to the Self behind the mind and its stream of thoughts. The power of mind can overcome any physical aberrations, along with the ayurvedic treatment, an organized life style, exercises, yoga and meditation, medical counseling and stress management effectively contributes towards early recovery from any sort of pain.

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Dandruff – Ayurvedic management

January 31, 2008 Dr Rajesh Nair Leave a comment

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Concept of Dandruff in Ayurveda

According to Ayurveda, dandruff is a condition of the skin where in shiny, silvery scales separate from the scalp and collect amidst the hair and it is categorized in “shodra roga”. It is named as “darunak” which appears due to an imbalance of all three doshas.

The primary doshas involved are pitta and vata. Pitta is an Ayurvedic humor which symbolizes heat or fire and vata is dry and rough in nature. The increase of Vata and Pitta in the body leads to destruction of Raktadhatu thus giving rise to impurities in blood. This in turn leads to poor nourishment to the scalp

In an aggravated state, both doshas cause production of specific impurities. These impurities are dry and heating in nature. These impurities accumulate in the deep tissues of scalp and cause contamination of these tissues. Contamination of the deep tissues and aggravated vata-pitta dosha cause itching and patches on scalp. Due to these factors, the scalp sheds larger than normal amounts of dead epidermal cells, which leads to the dandruff problem.

Vata associated dandruff has pain as a symptom, while the Pitta associated dandruff has burning sensation in the scalp hence the line of treatment is to generally pacify both pitta and vata.

** The main causes of dandruff are impairment of general health, development of a toxic condition mainly due to taking of wrong foods, constipation, and a low vitality due to infectious diseases. Other factors contributing to this disorder are emotional tension, harsh shampoos, and exposure to cold, and general exhaustion. One should take care to avoid all these mentioned above.

** Ayurvedic herbal preparations like Karanj (Pongamia pinnata), Backuchi (Psoralia coryfolia), Tulsi (Ocimum snctum), Giloya (Tinospora cordifolia), Neem (Azadirachta indica) are recommended.
** Cobra (Bhujanga Asana) and Vajrasana are the recommended yogic practice which go long way in treating emotional imbalance thereby prevents dandruff.

Ayurvedic Management

Ayurveda treats dandruff in a more safe and effective way. It is a condition when the cells of the scalp of the head excessively die and flake off and is easily visible as flakes present in the hair, most often accompanied by itchiness of the scalp. According to Ayurveda, this is caused due to aggravation of Vata.

a) Ayurvedic medicines used for the treatng dandruff are
** For external application, Dudurpatradi tailam is prescribed.
** Gandhaka Rasayana is used as an internal medicine.
** Take one teaspoonful of Brihat Haridra Khand in a glass of milk twice a day
** Since dandruff can be due to the impurity of the blood, ayurvedic medicines like Khadirarishta and Saribadyaasavam are taken for the purification of blood.
b) If some food allergy causes dandruff then avoid that particular food. If we are not able to find any particular allergy then healthy diet can keep the scalp healthy.

c) Fresh Green vegetables and fruits must be included in the diet. Vitamin C is not good for dandruff. Diary, fermented, processed, spicy foods are all to be avoided.

d) Make a paste of sandalwood oil with triple the amount of lemon juice and to apply it on the scalp when still fresh.

e) A daily bath is essential. Even if you do not shampoo your hair daily one must wash scalp thoroughly. After the bath, dry the hair and then brush it in order to remove the flaky dandruff from it. And keep your hair well-oiled.

f) Give your hair a hot steam bath . Message hot oil with a damp towel and leave it on the head like the turban so that the team can fight dandruff .

g) Some of the popular Ayurvedic Herbs used are Alfalfa (Medicago satina), Ash Gourd (Benincasa hipsida) and Fenugreek (Trigonella foenum graecum)

Diet and Lifestyle

Ayurveda, an ancient Indian medical system has a promising remedy for dandruff, in which the dry skin flakes off the scalp resulting in itchiness. It believes that aggravation of Vata is its main causes and suggests the following modified diet and lifestyle to pacify doshic imbalance.

** Include a plenty of green vegetables and fruits in the diet.

** Drink mineral water, herbal teas and unsweetened fruit juice.

** Spicy, greasy, fermented foods and baked products must be avoided.

** Strong tea and coffee, processed foods should be avoided.

** Limit your intake of alcohol.

** Milk, dairy products, sea foods, animal proteins and fatty foods are also to be avoided.

** Foods which have vitamin C in them like tomatoes, oranges, lemons, tamarind, etc. which contain acidic content, must be avoided.

** Exposure of the head to the rays of the sun is also a useful measure in the treatment of dandruff.

** Develop a regular exercise regimen as it stimulates the circulatory system,

** Take care while using some contraceptive pills deplete the vitamin B-complex and zinc which brings in dandruff.

** Use any herbal shampoo for cleaning the hair. Using a herbal pack of mixing henna powder, curd, ritha powder together is effective.

** Keep the hair and scalp clean so as to minimise the accumulation of dead cells. The hair should be brushed daily to improve the circulation and remove any flakiness. Keep hair well oiled.

** Have a regular mild shampoo bath, then, dry your hair and brush it in order to remove the flaky dandruff from it.

** Stress affects your overall health and triggers dandruff or exacerbate existing symptoms. Take care to do meditation or yoga to bring down your stress level.