Ayurveda and cancer. “According to ayurveda, cancer results from lifestyle errors, such as unhealthy foods, poor hygiene, or poor behavior, or from physical trauma, all leading to imbalances of vata, pitta, and kapha, resulting in injury to the inner layer of the dermis (rohini, the sixth layer of the skin) and the formation of abnormal branches of blood vessels.” This part is very detailed and interesting, but too long to post about here. I would be glad, though, to forward the full study to anyone who requests it.
Treatment of cancer. There are three approaches in Ayurveda: health maintenance, restoration to normal, spiritual approach and disease cure. The techniques were (are!) very modern: “The principles of patient safety were foremost, including meticulous aseptic techniques used for surgery (eg, careful boiling of instruments, cleaning of hands). Treatment involves the surgical removal of tumor, herbal remedies, dietary modification, and spiritual treatment (eg, detoxification, rejuvenation, prayers, music therapy, aromatherapy, gem therapy, sound therapy, stress relief, meditation, yoga, and astrology).” Diet and exercise (yoga, e.g.) were also considered to be important, and meditation, which I practise in my own fashion (having never been taught how to do it properly), “leads to emotional and stress release and detoxification of the cellular and tissue memories.”
In the 7th century, “surgery was considered one of the best methods of treatment for arbuda.” Arbuda is “definite malignancy.” Herbal treatments against cancer “were beneficial only in the beginning stage," but that also depended on the type of tumour involved. The surgical removal of tumours is described in detail…I must say, it’s really incredible to read about such careful sterile practises being used so many centuries ago. I was surprised and very impressed.
The review draws similarities between ancient Ayurvedic and modern Western cancer treatments. Although the different molecular targets “were not known 5,000 years ago, the components of herbs used at that time now appear to target these molecules.” Aha!
The review provides a Table that couples the modern targets of cancer treatment (such as NF-kappa B and COX-2) with ancient herbal remedies. Truly extraordinary. I must have a closer look at this list of herbs as soon as possible. Curcuma longa, of course, is everywhere. The researchers state that the “Development of new synergistic anticancer agents based on these herbs would be beneficial for modern treatment modalities.” Indeed. “The use of Vinca rosea in the treatment of cancer is very well described in ayurveda,” and the modern chemotherapy drug vincristine derives from the plant Vinca rosea, or periwinkle. Just one example.
Differences between modern science and Ayurveda: “Although modern science believes in using a single chemical entity for a particular cancer (eg, paclitaxel, vincristine, etoposide), ayurvedic treatment involves the use of whole plant extracts. It is possible that enhanced toxic effects associated with modern medicine are due to a lack of other components of the plant. Ayurveda usually recommends the use of several plant extracts in combination, which is somewhat similar to the combination of various chemical entities that are currently used for the treatment of cancer.” How about that?
Cancer treatment side effects. The review contains advice on how to “alleviate some of the common side effects associated with modern medical treatment of cancer;” even stress and depression, and how to diminish cancer cachexia: “the ayurvedic regimen rejuvenates the body tissues, tones up the body systems, and acts as a tonic to the body against cancer cachexia.” It also lists herbs that can protect us from the harmful effects of radiation. I already knew about curcumin, but not about ginger, e.g.
Relevance of anecdotes. “Treatment according to ayurveda is very individualized, thereby making it difficult to conduct a large population based clinical study. Thus, not many randomized, controlled, and double-blind clinical trials are available. Many anecdotal and case reports are available that show the efficacy of the herbs and the treatments used. The individualized therapies are sometimes poorly documented, unable to be accepted in the standardized Western field.”
Indeed, this is so true, and it illustrates the sort of opposition I have run into with my own cancer treatment, for instance at the recent conference in Calenzano, where I had a bit of a discussion with the cancer specialist sitting next to me. Will these close-minded attitudes ever change? I hope so. Blog reader Old Bill left me a good quote recently: “What’s wrong with an anecdote if it’s true?” (Beata Bishop). Exactly. And, even more to the point: what’s wrong with hundreds of anecdotes?
“Ayurvedic treatments are still followed by 75 to 80% of the rural population of India. As much as 70% of the Indian population is vegetarian, and this may also contribute to the lower incidence of cancer. It also, however, raises several questions about current treatment. Although current treatment tends to be highly focused at the molecular level, it is highly unfocused at the whole organism level, making it reductionist. Ayurvedic treatment of cancer is a holistic approach and is currently preferred. The new wave of ‘‘system biology’’ and ‘‘genome revolution’’ is expected to provide a holistic approach to the treatment of cancer. In spite of it, this approach tends to ignore the relationship between mind, body, and spirit. It is our hope that ayurveda can help fill this gap.”
Medicines
Diet
Panchakarma
Panchakarma is a set of five ayurvedic remedies that may or may not all be used as part of a therapeutic cleansing program.
The five parts of panchakarma are:
Emesis
Purgation
Enema
Nasal application of herbal remedies
Blood-letting
Diet is also considered a very important part of treatment. Visiting an ayurvedic practitioner is important in order to develop the proper diet for your body. The practitioner will determine which of the three humors is the predominant one in your body, and then based on this information, can develop a diet for you that will bring the three humors back in balance.Another important aspect of diet is maintaining the energy level of the food. According to ayurvedic thought, making food cold, for instance, by refrigerating, destroys the natural energy of the food. They believe that this causes the loss of more energy than is lost through cooking. This then leads to poor metabolism, which in turn may lead to someone eventually developing cancer. Of course, not all people who eat refrigerated foods develop cancer. This is because everyone is different. Some people are capable of producing the proper stomach acids to counteract the coldness of the food. These people have what is referred to as “agni” or fire. These people more frequently develop fevers and diarrhea more often than do people who eventually develop cancer, which seems to imply that they are better at excreting the toxins.Based on these ideas, here are some suggestions:
Take supplements to increase your hydrochloric acid levels
Eat spicy foods to help stimulate the gastric juices
After eating, use digestive bitters to make sure the food moves quickly through the digestive system before the toxins can build up
It is also important to note that ayurvedic medicine does not have to be used to the exclusivity of Western medicine. They can be used together as long as you make sure that all practitioners are aware of what the others are doing. Using ayurvedic techniques for cancer treatment in addition to receiving treatment via Western methods often helps to reduce stress levels which then leads to a better reception of the other treatments.
In particular, be careful when taking herbal supplements when also taking other medications, as they may interact with each other and produce undesired effects. Ayurvedic treatments like yoga and massage are usually safe and provide more benefit than harm.
Wednesday, November 12, 2008
Bistort Herb Description - Interactions, Dosage Useful Properties
Alternative Names: Common Bistort, Easter Ledges, Knotweed, Oderwort, Snakeroot, snake week.
Common Forms
Available as a dried or cut root, powder, or tea.
Sources for Bistort
Different folk cultures use different parts of Polygonum bistorta, a member of the buckwheat family. Rhizomes and roots are most prized and gathered in the fall. Leaves are gathered in the spring. Bistort is native to Europe and naturalized in North America.
Chemical Components
There have been reports that P. bistorta contains phenolic compounds. Aqueous extracts are rich in tannins . Rhizomes and roots contain flavonoids, gallic acid, phlobaphene, starch, and a trace of emodin, an anthraquinone.
Actions
The pharmacokinetics of bistort have not been studied. Bistort is one of the strongest botanical astringents known. In a study with rats, bistort significantly inhibited acute and chronic phases of adjuvant and carrageenan-induced inflammation . This effect has not been confirmed in human trials.
Uses and Benefits
Extracts of underground plant parts have long been used to stop external and internal bleeding. Bistort has been used externally for hemorrhoids, insect bites, measles, snakebites, and small burns or wounds; as a mouthwash or gargle for canker sores, gum problems, laryngitis, and sore throat; and to reduce pulmonary secretions.
Internally, bistort has been used to treat dysentery, gastric and pulmonary hemorrhage, irritable bowel syndrome, jaundice, peptic ulcers, and ulcerative colitis. It has also been used as an anthelmintic, an antidote for certain poisons, and a douche for excessive vaginal discharge or bleeding.
The 1983 British Herbal Pharmacopoeia reports that bistort exerts an anti-inflammatory activity and lists it as useful in treating diarrhea in children.
Dosage to be taken
Some sources recommend that 1 tsp of the powdered root can be combined with 1 to 1 1/2 cups of boiling water and taken P.O. for diarrhea. More than 3 cups daily is not recommended.
Adverse Reactions
GI: GI irritation.
Hepatic: hepatic dysfunction.
Bistort Interactions:
None reported till yet.
Contraindications and Precautions to be taken with Bistort
Avoid using bistort in pregnant or breast-feeding patients; effects are unknown.
Special Considerations to be kept in mind
Monitor the patient for signs and symptoms of GI irritation.
Monitor liver function test results for signs of hepatic dysfunction.
Caution the patient not to take bistort internally for longer than a few weeks at a time.
Advise women to avoid using bistort during pregnancy or when breast - feeding.
Points of Interest
The rhizome of bistort is rich in starch and has been roasted and eaten as a vegetable.
Commentary
Bistort may have practical value as an astringent for poultices. Its antarthritic and anti-inflammatory properties appear promising. Overall, bistort has significant anecdotal data but few scientific studies supporting its use. The lack of scientific trials for any of the therapeutic claims should limit bistort use until such clinical trials can define more precisely bistort's role in modern medicine.
Common Forms
Available as a dried or cut root, powder, or tea.
Sources for Bistort
Different folk cultures use different parts of Polygonum bistorta, a member of the buckwheat family. Rhizomes and roots are most prized and gathered in the fall. Leaves are gathered in the spring. Bistort is native to Europe and naturalized in North America.
Chemical Components
There have been reports that P. bistorta contains phenolic compounds. Aqueous extracts are rich in tannins . Rhizomes and roots contain flavonoids, gallic acid, phlobaphene, starch, and a trace of emodin, an anthraquinone.
Actions
The pharmacokinetics of bistort have not been studied. Bistort is one of the strongest botanical astringents known. In a study with rats, bistort significantly inhibited acute and chronic phases of adjuvant and carrageenan-induced inflammation . This effect has not been confirmed in human trials.
Uses and Benefits
Extracts of underground plant parts have long been used to stop external and internal bleeding. Bistort has been used externally for hemorrhoids, insect bites, measles, snakebites, and small burns or wounds; as a mouthwash or gargle for canker sores, gum problems, laryngitis, and sore throat; and to reduce pulmonary secretions.
Internally, bistort has been used to treat dysentery, gastric and pulmonary hemorrhage, irritable bowel syndrome, jaundice, peptic ulcers, and ulcerative colitis. It has also been used as an anthelmintic, an antidote for certain poisons, and a douche for excessive vaginal discharge or bleeding.
The 1983 British Herbal Pharmacopoeia reports that bistort exerts an anti-inflammatory activity and lists it as useful in treating diarrhea in children.
Dosage to be taken
Some sources recommend that 1 tsp of the powdered root can be combined with 1 to 1 1/2 cups of boiling water and taken P.O. for diarrhea. More than 3 cups daily is not recommended.
Adverse Reactions
GI: GI irritation.
Hepatic: hepatic dysfunction.
Bistort Interactions:
None reported till yet.
Contraindications and Precautions to be taken with Bistort
Avoid using bistort in pregnant or breast-feeding patients; effects are unknown.
Special Considerations to be kept in mind
Monitor the patient for signs and symptoms of GI irritation.
Monitor liver function test results for signs of hepatic dysfunction.
Caution the patient not to take bistort internally for longer than a few weeks at a time.
Advise women to avoid using bistort during pregnancy or when breast - feeding.
Points of Interest
The rhizome of bistort is rich in starch and has been roasted and eaten as a vegetable.
Commentary
Bistort may have practical value as an astringent for poultices. Its antarthritic and anti-inflammatory properties appear promising. Overall, bistort has significant anecdotal data but few scientific studies supporting its use. The lack of scientific trials for any of the therapeutic claims should limit bistort use until such clinical trials can define more precisely bistort's role in modern medicine.
Ayurvedic Oil Massage or Sneha Karma
Ayurvedic Oil Massage or Sneha Karma
Ayurveda, the all-time healing system, has some specialised therapeutic procedures of its own. Among them, sneha karma is one. It is a therapy, which is usually employed as a pre-operative procedure to panchakarma. This procedure produces snigdhata (suppleness) in the body. Ayurvedic texts compare the exhausted human body with a dry stick, which breaks easily. Application of oil to the body makes it supple. This therapy can be employed either by administering oily substances internally or by using them externally in the form of oil massage. This article throws light on abhyanga and mardhana-a specialised oil massage therapy of Ayurveda.
Charaka Samhita, the Ayurvedic treatise, advocates oil massage as a regular health care measure in maintaining positive health. Massage preserves the body energy. It improves the blood circulation and helps in excreting toxins out of the body through sweat, urine and mucous; thus rejuvenating and relaxing the body. It protects against the vitiation and aggravation of vaata and kapha doshas. Massaging oil into the body makes it strong and helps the skin become smooth, says Ashtaanga Hridaya, another Ayurvedic treatise. So, one can expect good results from massage in treating skin disorders like eczema, blisters, scabies, seborrhoea and other conditions like neurasthenia, headaches, sleeplessness, gouty arthritis, polio, obesity and mental disorders. Massage increases physical stamina and mental alertness apart from sexual vitality.
Scientific Validity
The Ayurvedic system of medicine calls the lymph system as the kapha or mucous carrying system. Lymph contains most of the elements in blood i.e. plasma, amino acids, glucose, fats, hormones, enzymes, salts and lymphocytes which fight infection. It acts as a transport medium between cells and the blood stream. It also aids circulation by maintaining the balance of the fluids in the body. The massage technique is pointed towards increasing lymph flow in the body by applying pressure at the manna (vital) points as described in the Sushruta Samhita. Increasing the kapha activity by massage is purported to increase the nourishment of the body and give proper stimulation to joints and body tissues.
If lymph flow is increased by massage, then there are several likely processes, which may be involved. Lymph possesses a relatively large amount of the amino acidtryptophan. This subsequently causes a parallel increase in the neurotransmitter (chemical between nerve endings), serotonin. Serotonin has been implicated in several psychiatric diseases with low levels of its metabolite found by researchers in depression, hallucinations, headaches, anxiety and irritability. So, massage is beneficial in treating these conditions. Another interesting point is that lymph contains approximately 30 times as much histaminase (an enzyme which breaks the allergy and acidity causing histamine) as in blood. So, the pathological conditions where histamine is involved, like painful and swollen tissue areas, gastric irritation, headaches, skin allergies, can be treated with lymphatic massage in order to provide increased supply of histaminase.
Read more about some Ayurvedic Oil Massage tips and facts.
Ayurvedic Oil Massage - Tips and Facts
The effects of massage vary with the time of day. During the day it relaxes and refreshes, giving increased energy. In the evening it is more tranquillising.
To be a good masseur, one needs to look at the formation and function of the musculature. One who follows the natural contours and flows of the body ensures the most effective massage.
In cold seasons, hot or warm oil should be used and in the hot seasons it is viceversa. The easiest way is to put the oil into a plastic squeeze bottle and then hold it submerged in hot or cold water until it is pleasantly warm or cool according to the situation.
Oil should be applied at the joints or marma points in a circular manner, in a clockwise direction. And, on the other body parts, against the direction of the hair growth. This will direct the lymph towards the heart.
Before the massage, just relax. Take some deep breaths, and then rub your palms together until they feel warm. This charges the hands with energy and makes them pleasant to touch.
If we take the body to be an inverted tree, the brain is the root, the spine is the trunk, and limbs are the branches. So for maximum benefit, massage should commence from the upper leg. It should be massaged first on the outside and then inside. The lower part of the legs should be massaged followed by a foot massage. After this, the hips and sides should be worked with and the lower back should be massaged, moving upwards, covering the upper back. Then the chest and the arms should be massaged. The head should always be massaged last.
If daily massage of the whole body is not possible, at least the feet should be massaged every night before sleeping and the head could be given a massage every third day.
A wide range of oils is available for massage. Simple oils that are advised for general massage are sesame oil and mustard oil. Olive oil is also good. But it is too costly to use in our country.
Sesame oil is hot, heavy and sweet. It works on all the three doshas by removing swellings of all muscles, strengthening the skin texture and preventing premature aging. The shape of breasts can be improved by massaging them regularly with this oil. Oil of black sesame seeds is recommended in Ayurveda to keep the hair in good condition. Sesame oil is usually preferred to mustard oil, which may sometimes irritate tender skin because it is pungent and bitter, while sesame oil is neutral.
Apart from this, there are specific oils for specific conditions. For example, Brahmi oil induces sleep. Mahaanarayana taila can be used to treat muscle pains and arthritic conditions. Aswagandhaadi taila can be used in muscle atrophy. In the same way Mahaamarichyaadi taila can be used specifically for controlling itching. These oils can be used on the advice of an Ayurvedic physician.
Ayurveda, the all-time healing system, has some specialised therapeutic procedures of its own. Among them, sneha karma is one. It is a therapy, which is usually employed as a pre-operative procedure to panchakarma. This procedure produces snigdhata (suppleness) in the body. Ayurvedic texts compare the exhausted human body with a dry stick, which breaks easily. Application of oil to the body makes it supple. This therapy can be employed either by administering oily substances internally or by using them externally in the form of oil massage. This article throws light on abhyanga and mardhana-a specialised oil massage therapy of Ayurveda.
Charaka Samhita, the Ayurvedic treatise, advocates oil massage as a regular health care measure in maintaining positive health. Massage preserves the body energy. It improves the blood circulation and helps in excreting toxins out of the body through sweat, urine and mucous; thus rejuvenating and relaxing the body. It protects against the vitiation and aggravation of vaata and kapha doshas. Massaging oil into the body makes it strong and helps the skin become smooth, says Ashtaanga Hridaya, another Ayurvedic treatise. So, one can expect good results from massage in treating skin disorders like eczema, blisters, scabies, seborrhoea and other conditions like neurasthenia, headaches, sleeplessness, gouty arthritis, polio, obesity and mental disorders. Massage increases physical stamina and mental alertness apart from sexual vitality.
Scientific Validity
The Ayurvedic system of medicine calls the lymph system as the kapha or mucous carrying system. Lymph contains most of the elements in blood i.e. plasma, amino acids, glucose, fats, hormones, enzymes, salts and lymphocytes which fight infection. It acts as a transport medium between cells and the blood stream. It also aids circulation by maintaining the balance of the fluids in the body. The massage technique is pointed towards increasing lymph flow in the body by applying pressure at the manna (vital) points as described in the Sushruta Samhita. Increasing the kapha activity by massage is purported to increase the nourishment of the body and give proper stimulation to joints and body tissues.
If lymph flow is increased by massage, then there are several likely processes, which may be involved. Lymph possesses a relatively large amount of the amino acidtryptophan. This subsequently causes a parallel increase in the neurotransmitter (chemical between nerve endings), serotonin. Serotonin has been implicated in several psychiatric diseases with low levels of its metabolite found by researchers in depression, hallucinations, headaches, anxiety and irritability. So, massage is beneficial in treating these conditions. Another interesting point is that lymph contains approximately 30 times as much histaminase (an enzyme which breaks the allergy and acidity causing histamine) as in blood. So, the pathological conditions where histamine is involved, like painful and swollen tissue areas, gastric irritation, headaches, skin allergies, can be treated with lymphatic massage in order to provide increased supply of histaminase.
Read more about some Ayurvedic Oil Massage tips and facts.
Ayurvedic Oil Massage - Tips and Facts
The effects of massage vary with the time of day. During the day it relaxes and refreshes, giving increased energy. In the evening it is more tranquillising.
To be a good masseur, one needs to look at the formation and function of the musculature. One who follows the natural contours and flows of the body ensures the most effective massage.
In cold seasons, hot or warm oil should be used and in the hot seasons it is viceversa. The easiest way is to put the oil into a plastic squeeze bottle and then hold it submerged in hot or cold water until it is pleasantly warm or cool according to the situation.
Oil should be applied at the joints or marma points in a circular manner, in a clockwise direction. And, on the other body parts, against the direction of the hair growth. This will direct the lymph towards the heart.
Before the massage, just relax. Take some deep breaths, and then rub your palms together until they feel warm. This charges the hands with energy and makes them pleasant to touch.
If we take the body to be an inverted tree, the brain is the root, the spine is the trunk, and limbs are the branches. So for maximum benefit, massage should commence from the upper leg. It should be massaged first on the outside and then inside. The lower part of the legs should be massaged followed by a foot massage. After this, the hips and sides should be worked with and the lower back should be massaged, moving upwards, covering the upper back. Then the chest and the arms should be massaged. The head should always be massaged last.
If daily massage of the whole body is not possible, at least the feet should be massaged every night before sleeping and the head could be given a massage every third day.
A wide range of oils is available for massage. Simple oils that are advised for general massage are sesame oil and mustard oil. Olive oil is also good. But it is too costly to use in our country.
Sesame oil is hot, heavy and sweet. It works on all the three doshas by removing swellings of all muscles, strengthening the skin texture and preventing premature aging. The shape of breasts can be improved by massaging them regularly with this oil. Oil of black sesame seeds is recommended in Ayurveda to keep the hair in good condition. Sesame oil is usually preferred to mustard oil, which may sometimes irritate tender skin because it is pungent and bitter, while sesame oil is neutral.
Apart from this, there are specific oils for specific conditions. For example, Brahmi oil induces sleep. Mahaanarayana taila can be used to treat muscle pains and arthritic conditions. Aswagandhaadi taila can be used in muscle atrophy. In the same way Mahaamarichyaadi taila can be used specifically for controlling itching. These oils can be used on the advice of an Ayurvedic physician.
Ayurvedic Oil Massage or Sneha Karma
Ayurvedic Oil Massage or Sneha Karma
Ayurveda, the all-time healing system, has some specialised therapeutic procedures of its own. Among them, sneha karma is one. It is a therapy, which is usually employed as a pre-operative procedure to panchakarma. This procedure produces snigdhata (suppleness) in the body. Ayurvedic texts compare the exhausted human body with a dry stick, which breaks easily. Application of oil to the body makes it supple. This therapy can be employed either by administering oily substances internally or by using them externally in the form of oil massage. This article throws light on abhyanga and mardhana-a specialised oil massage therapy of Ayurveda.
Charaka Samhita, the Ayurvedic treatise, advocates oil massage as a regular health care measure in maintaining positive health. Massage preserves the body energy. It improves the blood circulation and helps in excreting toxins out of the body through sweat, urine and mucous; thus rejuvenating and relaxing the body. It protects against the vitiation and aggravation of vaata and kapha doshas. Massaging oil into the body makes it strong and helps the skin become smooth, says Ashtaanga Hridaya, another Ayurvedic treatise. So, one can expect good results from massage in treating skin disorders like eczema, blisters, scabies, seborrhoea and other conditions like neurasthenia, headaches, sleeplessness, gouty arthritis, polio, obesity and mental disorders. Massage increases physical stamina and mental alertness apart from sexual vitality.
Scientific Validity
The Ayurvedic system of medicine calls the lymph system as the kapha or mucous carrying system. Lymph contains most of the elements in blood i.e. plasma, amino acids, glucose, fats, hormones, enzymes, salts and lymphocytes which fight infection. It acts as a transport medium between cells and the blood stream. It also aids circulation by maintaining the balance of the fluids in the body. The massage technique is pointed towards increasing lymph flow in the body by applying pressure at the manna (vital) points as described in the Sushruta Samhita. Increasing the kapha activity by massage is purported to increase the nourishment of the body and give proper stimulation to joints and body tissues.
If lymph flow is increased by massage, then there are several likely processes, which may be involved. Lymph possesses a relatively large amount of the amino acidtryptophan. This subsequently causes a parallel increase in the neurotransmitter (chemical between nerve endings), serotonin. Serotonin has been implicated in several psychiatric diseases with low levels of its metabolite found by researchers in depression, hallucinations, headaches, anxiety and irritability. So, massage is beneficial in treating these conditions. Another interesting point is that lymph contains approximately 30 times as much histaminase (an enzyme which breaks the allergy and acidity causing histamine) as in blood. So, the pathological conditions where histamine is involved, like painful and swollen tissue areas, gastric irritation, headaches, skin allergies, can be treated with lymphatic massage in order to provide increased supply of histaminase.
Read more about some Ayurvedic Oil Massage tips and facts.
Ayurvedic Oil Massage - Tips and Facts
The effects of massage vary with the time of day. During the day it relaxes and refreshes, giving increased energy. In the evening it is more tranquillising.
To be a good masseur, one needs to look at the formation and function of the musculature. One who follows the natural contours and flows of the body ensures the most effective massage.
In cold seasons, hot or warm oil should be used and in the hot seasons it is viceversa. The easiest way is to put the oil into a plastic squeeze bottle and then hold it submerged in hot or cold water until it is pleasantly warm or cool according to the situation.
Oil should be applied at the joints or marma points in a circular manner, in a clockwise direction. And, on the other body parts, against the direction of the hair growth. This will direct the lymph towards the heart.
Before the massage, just relax. Take some deep breaths, and then rub your palms together until they feel warm. This charges the hands with energy and makes them pleasant to touch.
If we take the body to be an inverted tree, the brain is the root, the spine is the trunk, and limbs are the branches. So for maximum benefit, massage should commence from the upper leg. It should be massaged first on the outside and then inside. The lower part of the legs should be massaged followed by a foot massage. After this, the hips and sides should be worked with and the lower back should be massaged, moving upwards, covering the upper back. Then the chest and the arms should be massaged. The head should always be massaged last.
If daily massage of the whole body is not possible, at least the feet should be massaged every night before sleeping and the head could be given a massage every third day.
A wide range of oils is available for massage. Simple oils that are advised for general massage are sesame oil and mustard oil. Olive oil is also good. But it is too costly to use in our country.
Sesame oil is hot, heavy and sweet. It works on all the three doshas by removing swellings of all muscles, strengthening the skin texture and preventing premature aging. The shape of breasts can be improved by massaging them regularly with this oil. Oil of black sesame seeds is recommended in Ayurveda to keep the hair in good condition. Sesame oil is usually preferred to mustard oil, which may sometimes irritate tender skin because it is pungent and bitter, while sesame oil is neutral.
Apart from this, there are specific oils for specific conditions. For example, Brahmi oil induces sleep. Mahaanarayana taila can be used to treat muscle pains and arthritic conditions. Aswagandhaadi taila can be used in muscle atrophy. In the same way Mahaamarichyaadi taila can be used specifically for controlling itching. These oils can be used on the advice of an Ayurvedic physician.
Ayurveda, the all-time healing system, has some specialised therapeutic procedures of its own. Among them, sneha karma is one. It is a therapy, which is usually employed as a pre-operative procedure to panchakarma. This procedure produces snigdhata (suppleness) in the body. Ayurvedic texts compare the exhausted human body with a dry stick, which breaks easily. Application of oil to the body makes it supple. This therapy can be employed either by administering oily substances internally or by using them externally in the form of oil massage. This article throws light on abhyanga and mardhana-a specialised oil massage therapy of Ayurveda.
Charaka Samhita, the Ayurvedic treatise, advocates oil massage as a regular health care measure in maintaining positive health. Massage preserves the body energy. It improves the blood circulation and helps in excreting toxins out of the body through sweat, urine and mucous; thus rejuvenating and relaxing the body. It protects against the vitiation and aggravation of vaata and kapha doshas. Massaging oil into the body makes it strong and helps the skin become smooth, says Ashtaanga Hridaya, another Ayurvedic treatise. So, one can expect good results from massage in treating skin disorders like eczema, blisters, scabies, seborrhoea and other conditions like neurasthenia, headaches, sleeplessness, gouty arthritis, polio, obesity and mental disorders. Massage increases physical stamina and mental alertness apart from sexual vitality.
Scientific Validity
The Ayurvedic system of medicine calls the lymph system as the kapha or mucous carrying system. Lymph contains most of the elements in blood i.e. plasma, amino acids, glucose, fats, hormones, enzymes, salts and lymphocytes which fight infection. It acts as a transport medium between cells and the blood stream. It also aids circulation by maintaining the balance of the fluids in the body. The massage technique is pointed towards increasing lymph flow in the body by applying pressure at the manna (vital) points as described in the Sushruta Samhita. Increasing the kapha activity by massage is purported to increase the nourishment of the body and give proper stimulation to joints and body tissues.
If lymph flow is increased by massage, then there are several likely processes, which may be involved. Lymph possesses a relatively large amount of the amino acidtryptophan. This subsequently causes a parallel increase in the neurotransmitter (chemical between nerve endings), serotonin. Serotonin has been implicated in several psychiatric diseases with low levels of its metabolite found by researchers in depression, hallucinations, headaches, anxiety and irritability. So, massage is beneficial in treating these conditions. Another interesting point is that lymph contains approximately 30 times as much histaminase (an enzyme which breaks the allergy and acidity causing histamine) as in blood. So, the pathological conditions where histamine is involved, like painful and swollen tissue areas, gastric irritation, headaches, skin allergies, can be treated with lymphatic massage in order to provide increased supply of histaminase.
Read more about some Ayurvedic Oil Massage tips and facts.
Ayurvedic Oil Massage - Tips and Facts
The effects of massage vary with the time of day. During the day it relaxes and refreshes, giving increased energy. In the evening it is more tranquillising.
To be a good masseur, one needs to look at the formation and function of the musculature. One who follows the natural contours and flows of the body ensures the most effective massage.
In cold seasons, hot or warm oil should be used and in the hot seasons it is viceversa. The easiest way is to put the oil into a plastic squeeze bottle and then hold it submerged in hot or cold water until it is pleasantly warm or cool according to the situation.
Oil should be applied at the joints or marma points in a circular manner, in a clockwise direction. And, on the other body parts, against the direction of the hair growth. This will direct the lymph towards the heart.
Before the massage, just relax. Take some deep breaths, and then rub your palms together until they feel warm. This charges the hands with energy and makes them pleasant to touch.
If we take the body to be an inverted tree, the brain is the root, the spine is the trunk, and limbs are the branches. So for maximum benefit, massage should commence from the upper leg. It should be massaged first on the outside and then inside. The lower part of the legs should be massaged followed by a foot massage. After this, the hips and sides should be worked with and the lower back should be massaged, moving upwards, covering the upper back. Then the chest and the arms should be massaged. The head should always be massaged last.
If daily massage of the whole body is not possible, at least the feet should be massaged every night before sleeping and the head could be given a massage every third day.
A wide range of oils is available for massage. Simple oils that are advised for general massage are sesame oil and mustard oil. Olive oil is also good. But it is too costly to use in our country.
Sesame oil is hot, heavy and sweet. It works on all the three doshas by removing swellings of all muscles, strengthening the skin texture and preventing premature aging. The shape of breasts can be improved by massaging them regularly with this oil. Oil of black sesame seeds is recommended in Ayurveda to keep the hair in good condition. Sesame oil is usually preferred to mustard oil, which may sometimes irritate tender skin because it is pungent and bitter, while sesame oil is neutral.
Apart from this, there are specific oils for specific conditions. For example, Brahmi oil induces sleep. Mahaanarayana taila can be used to treat muscle pains and arthritic conditions. Aswagandhaadi taila can be used in muscle atrophy. In the same way Mahaamarichyaadi taila can be used specifically for controlling itching. These oils can be used on the advice of an Ayurvedic physician.
Taste or Rasa of the Food Item
Sweet (Madhura Rasa): Any food that is nourishing and brings satisfaction, generally, has a sweet taste. Eating sweet foods will bring on kapha qualities in the bodycoldness, heaviness (by adding fat), steadiness and physical energy. Sweet foods are also soothing. They move the bowels and have the diuretic effect. If you are in a nervous and unsettled mood which is a sign of aroused vaata, sweet will calm you; it also puts out the fire of pitta and is considered as a brain tonic. However, too much sugar is not stabilising; it aggravates kapha, which produces lethargy. Excess of sweet causes greed and emotional dependence. Too much sweet becomes nauseating and leads to obesity, loss of appetite, respiratory disorders, goitre, swelling of lymph nodes, diabetes, worms etc. In the case of any kapha imbalance, sweets should be reduced or avoided. Example of sweet foods are rice, dal, jaggery, sugar, milk, honey, tubers, eggs, mango, bananas, apricots.
Sour (Amla Rasa): Drugs and diet with sour taste stimulate appetite and add taste to food. They expel the gas and combat anorexia. They can be used as anti-coagulants. Though it is refreshing to eat sour food, if consumed in excess, it increases thirst, which is the character of aggravated pitta. It can cause burning sensation in throat and chest. One has to drink lot of water to quell this heat. This in turn promotes fluid retention and swellings. The sharp qualities of pitta, such as sharp intellect and wittiness, are increased by sour foods. But too much pitta is connected with resentment and envy. Anaemia, haemorrhage, vertigo, and defects of the vision are the common disorders caused by excessive use of sour food. Examples of sour foods are lime, tomato, citrus fruits, etc.
Salty (Lavana Rasa): Salt increases both pitta and kapha. In small amounts, its taste adds relish to food, and starts the flow of saliva and stomach juices. However, excessive salt will make it harder to control food cravings. By making you eat extra, salt adds fat and leads to overweight. Salt also makes your body heavy, causing impotence, grey hair, premature wrinkling, falling of hair, haemorrhage, skin diseases, and gastric disorders. Excess salt is generally associated with cravings and uncontrollable desires. Examples are pickles and papad.
Pungent (Katu Rasa): Pungency of hot and spicy food causes a burning sensation (the heating effect of aggravated pitta) and thirst (the drying effect of aggravated vaata). It stimulates the body and makes fluids-sweat, tears, saliva, mucus and the blood flow freely. So, digestion increases and congested tissues are cleaned out. In spite of these good qualities, if used in excess, pungency can cause harm-eating a raw chilli causes swollen lips, burning skin, hot sweat and even impotence. Too much spicy food makes you thirsty, dizzy and unsettled. Examples of pungent foods are pepper, ginger, chillies, onions, garlic, etc.
Bitter (Tikta rasa): Bitter foods instantly make the palate crave for more satisfying tastes. It speeds up digestion. When the body becomes toxic, inflamed, hot, or itchy due to pitta aggravation, bitter taste is the best corrective. (Bitter giloy and quininebark soothe fever, for instance). But, if used in excess, bitter aggravates vaata, leadi.'1g to characteristic vaata complaints-loss of appetite~ weight loss, headache: unsteadiness, dry skin, debility, and dryness of the mouth. Examples of bitter foods are karela, methi, turmeric, spinach & spices.
Astringent (Kashaaya rasa): Astringent, the taste that makes our mouth dry, is not familiar to many. Astringency is light and sedative and causes granulation, absorption, and stiffness. This taste is cooling and constrictive; stops the flow of secretions such as sweat and tears. In excess, its constricting effect may lead to vaata complains such as constipation and dry mouth, along with gas or abdominal bloating. Astringent taste controls excitement. However, if you take in excess, astringency makes you shrivel. The sudden condition when you are seized by fear and the dry mouth that anxiety brings, are both astringent qualities. Examples of astringent foods are lentils, tea, broccoli beans, cabbage, cauliflower etc.
It is advisable to change your diet a bit so that all the six rasas are represented in your meal without repetition and monotony. A balanced diet is one that contains all the six tastes (shat-rasas).
For example, even if you have only two chapattis and boiled vegetables a day, you do not lose weight because both wheat and vegetables have sweet taste that prevents weight loss. Or even being on a diet of salads, one gets constipation because there is no lubrication in the diet. A little cow ghee added to the salads prevents putting on weight and facilitates bowel movements everyday.
Heating Or Cooling Energy Of Food Or Veerya
Certain items of food have a heating effect on body or are of high caloric value e.g. meat, fish, egg, jaggery, dates, nuts, honey, mango etc. Others like milk, oranges, melon, bananas, curd, cheese etc. have a cooling effect on the body.
Post-Digestive (Metabolic ) Effect Or Vipaaka
The post-digestive effect refers to the effect of the food substance on the digestive system, metabolism and on the nutrition of the body.
Sour (Amla Rasa): Drugs and diet with sour taste stimulate appetite and add taste to food. They expel the gas and combat anorexia. They can be used as anti-coagulants. Though it is refreshing to eat sour food, if consumed in excess, it increases thirst, which is the character of aggravated pitta. It can cause burning sensation in throat and chest. One has to drink lot of water to quell this heat. This in turn promotes fluid retention and swellings. The sharp qualities of pitta, such as sharp intellect and wittiness, are increased by sour foods. But too much pitta is connected with resentment and envy. Anaemia, haemorrhage, vertigo, and defects of the vision are the common disorders caused by excessive use of sour food. Examples of sour foods are lime, tomato, citrus fruits, etc.
Salty (Lavana Rasa): Salt increases both pitta and kapha. In small amounts, its taste adds relish to food, and starts the flow of saliva and stomach juices. However, excessive salt will make it harder to control food cravings. By making you eat extra, salt adds fat and leads to overweight. Salt also makes your body heavy, causing impotence, grey hair, premature wrinkling, falling of hair, haemorrhage, skin diseases, and gastric disorders. Excess salt is generally associated with cravings and uncontrollable desires. Examples are pickles and papad.
Pungent (Katu Rasa): Pungency of hot and spicy food causes a burning sensation (the heating effect of aggravated pitta) and thirst (the drying effect of aggravated vaata). It stimulates the body and makes fluids-sweat, tears, saliva, mucus and the blood flow freely. So, digestion increases and congested tissues are cleaned out. In spite of these good qualities, if used in excess, pungency can cause harm-eating a raw chilli causes swollen lips, burning skin, hot sweat and even impotence. Too much spicy food makes you thirsty, dizzy and unsettled. Examples of pungent foods are pepper, ginger, chillies, onions, garlic, etc.
Bitter (Tikta rasa): Bitter foods instantly make the palate crave for more satisfying tastes. It speeds up digestion. When the body becomes toxic, inflamed, hot, or itchy due to pitta aggravation, bitter taste is the best corrective. (Bitter giloy and quininebark soothe fever, for instance). But, if used in excess, bitter aggravates vaata, leadi.'1g to characteristic vaata complaints-loss of appetite~ weight loss, headache: unsteadiness, dry skin, debility, and dryness of the mouth. Examples of bitter foods are karela, methi, turmeric, spinach & spices.
Astringent (Kashaaya rasa): Astringent, the taste that makes our mouth dry, is not familiar to many. Astringency is light and sedative and causes granulation, absorption, and stiffness. This taste is cooling and constrictive; stops the flow of secretions such as sweat and tears. In excess, its constricting effect may lead to vaata complains such as constipation and dry mouth, along with gas or abdominal bloating. Astringent taste controls excitement. However, if you take in excess, astringency makes you shrivel. The sudden condition when you are seized by fear and the dry mouth that anxiety brings, are both astringent qualities. Examples of astringent foods are lentils, tea, broccoli beans, cabbage, cauliflower etc.
It is advisable to change your diet a bit so that all the six rasas are represented in your meal without repetition and monotony. A balanced diet is one that contains all the six tastes (shat-rasas).
For example, even if you have only two chapattis and boiled vegetables a day, you do not lose weight because both wheat and vegetables have sweet taste that prevents weight loss. Or even being on a diet of salads, one gets constipation because there is no lubrication in the diet. A little cow ghee added to the salads prevents putting on weight and facilitates bowel movements everyday.
Heating Or Cooling Energy Of Food Or Veerya
Certain items of food have a heating effect on body or are of high caloric value e.g. meat, fish, egg, jaggery, dates, nuts, honey, mango etc. Others like milk, oranges, melon, bananas, curd, cheese etc. have a cooling effect on the body.
Post-Digestive (Metabolic ) Effect Or Vipaaka
The post-digestive effect refers to the effect of the food substance on the digestive system, metabolism and on the nutrition of the body.
Herbs Have Side Effects
In the last few years, traditional systems of medicine are being looked upon with more acceptance in the Western world. Current estimates suggest that a large proportion of the population relies heavily on traditional practitioners and medicinal plants to meet primary health care needs. In our country, thou.gh modem medicine enjoys immense acceptance, herbal medicines have maintained their popularity for historical and cultural reasons. Concurrently, many people in developed countries have begun to turn to alternative or complementary therapies, including medicinal herbs.
Unless diagnosis and the appropriate treatment is done with all the modalities of ayurvedic treatment-diet, deeds and drugs-it is very likely to backfire. Here we shall discuss a few medicinal plants from exhaustive list on ayurvedic materia medica with their side-effects:
Licorice Root
Prolonged use of it i.e. more than 50 grams per day may increase water accumulation causing swelling of the hands and feet, which is a warning sign that you are retaining too much sodium and excreting too much potassium. Under no circumstances should a person try to fast while using licorice root. Also, licorice should not be used in conditions such as low serum potassium; high blood pressure; cardiovascular disease, particularly illnesses involving abnormalities of heart rhythm; gall bladder disease; kidney disease; pheochromocytoma and other adrenal tumours; diseases that cause low serum potassium levels, such as primary and secondary aldosternoism and severe chronic alcohol abuse; diseases that may result from low potassium levels such as certain kinds of flaccid paralysis or limb disorders; fasting or anorexia/bulimia; untreated hypothyroidism.
Garlic Bulb
Consumption of large amounts of garlic may increase the risk of post-operative bleeding. Garlic bas also been reported to evoke occasional allergic reactions such as contact dermatitis and asthmatic attacks after inhalation of the powdered drug. Those sensitive to garlic may also have a reaction to onion. Ingestion of fresh garlic bulbs, extracts, or oil on an empty stomach, may occasionally cause heartburn, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhoea. Garlic odour from breath and skin may be perceptible.
Aloe Juice
Major symptoms of overdose are griping and severe diarrhoea with consequent loss of fluid and electrolytes. Aloe should not be used in patients with intestinal obstruction or stenosis, atony, severe dehydration with electrolyte depletion, or chronic constipation. Aloe should not be administered to patients with inflammatory intestinal diseases, such as appendicitis, Crohn's disease, ulcerative colitis, irritable bowel syndrome, or diverticulitis, or to children less than 10 years of age. It should not be used during pregnancy or lactation except under medical supervision. The herb is also contraindicated in patients with cramps, colic, haemorrhoids, nephritis, or any undiagnosed abdominal symptoms such as pain, nausea or vomiting. As it contains laxatives, it should be used only if no effect can be obtained through a change of diet or use of bulk-forming products.
Isabgul
Isabgul products should always be taken with sufficient amounts of liquid, and at least half an hour after other medication or supplements such as calcium, vitamins, to prevent delayed absorption.
Rauwolfia (Sarpagandha)
Its products are contraindicated in patients with a history of mental depression, epilepsy, decreased renal function, and in patients receiving electroconvulcive therapy. As Rauwolfia preparations increase gastro-intestinal motility and secretion, they should be used cautiously in persons with a history of peptic ulcer, ulcerative colitis, or gallstones.
Unless diagnosis and the appropriate treatment is done with all the modalities of ayurvedic treatment-diet, deeds and drugs-it is very likely to backfire. Here we shall discuss a few medicinal plants from exhaustive list on ayurvedic materia medica with their side-effects:
Licorice Root
Prolonged use of it i.e. more than 50 grams per day may increase water accumulation causing swelling of the hands and feet, which is a warning sign that you are retaining too much sodium and excreting too much potassium. Under no circumstances should a person try to fast while using licorice root. Also, licorice should not be used in conditions such as low serum potassium; high blood pressure; cardiovascular disease, particularly illnesses involving abnormalities of heart rhythm; gall bladder disease; kidney disease; pheochromocytoma and other adrenal tumours; diseases that cause low serum potassium levels, such as primary and secondary aldosternoism and severe chronic alcohol abuse; diseases that may result from low potassium levels such as certain kinds of flaccid paralysis or limb disorders; fasting or anorexia/bulimia; untreated hypothyroidism.
Garlic Bulb
Consumption of large amounts of garlic may increase the risk of post-operative bleeding. Garlic bas also been reported to evoke occasional allergic reactions such as contact dermatitis and asthmatic attacks after inhalation of the powdered drug. Those sensitive to garlic may also have a reaction to onion. Ingestion of fresh garlic bulbs, extracts, or oil on an empty stomach, may occasionally cause heartburn, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhoea. Garlic odour from breath and skin may be perceptible.
Aloe Juice
Major symptoms of overdose are griping and severe diarrhoea with consequent loss of fluid and electrolytes. Aloe should not be used in patients with intestinal obstruction or stenosis, atony, severe dehydration with electrolyte depletion, or chronic constipation. Aloe should not be administered to patients with inflammatory intestinal diseases, such as appendicitis, Crohn's disease, ulcerative colitis, irritable bowel syndrome, or diverticulitis, or to children less than 10 years of age. It should not be used during pregnancy or lactation except under medical supervision. The herb is also contraindicated in patients with cramps, colic, haemorrhoids, nephritis, or any undiagnosed abdominal symptoms such as pain, nausea or vomiting. As it contains laxatives, it should be used only if no effect can be obtained through a change of diet or use of bulk-forming products.
Isabgul
Isabgul products should always be taken with sufficient amounts of liquid, and at least half an hour after other medication or supplements such as calcium, vitamins, to prevent delayed absorption.
Rauwolfia (Sarpagandha)
Its products are contraindicated in patients with a history of mental depression, epilepsy, decreased renal function, and in patients receiving electroconvulcive therapy. As Rauwolfia preparations increase gastro-intestinal motility and secretion, they should be used cautiously in persons with a history of peptic ulcer, ulcerative colitis, or gallstones.
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