 DEHA PRAKRUTHI: A Unique Contribution of Ayurveda
The characteristic personality of an individual determined by the combination of the three doshas is termed as Prakruthi. The concept of Deha Prakruthi is a strong foundation put forth by ayurveda in understanding human constitution. The escalated state of doshas at the time of conception along with various other factors like the quality of sperm and ovum, condition of the uterus, diet and regimens followed by the couples, climatic changes and results of the past deeds etc determines prakruthi. The present description is in the context of Deha Prakruthi. The word Prakruthi means nature or personality and Deha Prakruthi refers to the natural body constitution. Often we see patients coming up with a request to assess their prakruthi. A skilled physician can find out the prakruthi or the body constitution of the individual through nadee pareksha and by certain other means of examinations like darshana (observation), sparshana (palpation) and prashna (interrogation). Deha Prakruthi has an effect on the body, mind and spiritual make up of an individual. It is genetically determined to an extent which is susceptible to environmental changes. The approach of ayurveda on analysing Deha Prakruthi is quiet detailed and vivid. Lets see how to apply the knowledge of Deha Prakruthi in the field of maintaing and preserving health along with diagnosing and treatment principles. Despite the fact that there are similarities in mankind, every individual differs from each other in many aspects. Knowledge about ones own Deha Prakruthi helps one to maintain health by adhering to conducive diet and regimens suitable to each climate. One can understand the bodily requirements in a better way and can adopt proper lifestyle. This also helps us to find out which are the diseases one is more prone to suffer from and can act accordingly beforehand. Deha Prakruthi is the foremost factor which contributes to early prediction of a disease, prevention of the possible effects of the disease or to reduce the worsening of the symptoms, successful prognosis followed by proper selection of the drugs and line of treatment. For example, a Kapha Prakruthi individual is prone to suffer from respiratory ailments as kapha dosha occupies the upper part of the body predominantly. The middle portion of the body is the seat of pitta and so a pitta prakruthi person is likely to suffer from gastric problems. Since the lower part of the body is vata predominant, a vata prakruthi person is more susceptible to diseases affecting the locomotor or nervous system. Prakruthi of an individual indcates the physical strength or weakness. It is told that kapha prakruthi person have more inbuilt strength, whereas vata prakruthi person is more susceptible to disease as he has less strength and pitta prakruthi person has medium strength. Similarly the nature of the bowel habits are also related to ones prakruthi. A vata prakruthi individual is prone to be constipative, pitta prakruthi person would have a loose consistency of the bowels and a kapha prakruthi person would have medium to normal consistency of bowel movements. Hence this knowledge is utilised to diagnose, treat disease and maintain health. An individuals health can undergo slight changes with respect to seasonal variations or due to natural changes where in this knowledge of Deha Prakruthi can be applied. During climatic changes one can slowly adopt particular regimens suitable for their prakruthi as well. Today, most of the diseases we come across are self generated through faulty diet and life style. Autoimmune diseases are increasing at an alarming rate. In such a scenario, analyzing the deha prakruthi helps one to switch over to healthy habits. Unlike, a common diet and regimen, more individualised approach will prove beneficial. Hence, meeting the needs of the body assures good health and peace of mind. An individual can make informed choices as per his bodily requirements. This ultimately helps to achieve a balanced personal, professional and social life.
0 Comments
 ASHTANGA AYURVEDA
Learning Ayurveda is like swimming across a vast ocean of knowledge. Most of us are quiet familiar with the term Ashtanga Ayurveda (8 limbs of Ayurveda). The concepts of Ayurveda are so expansive and vivid. It has no equivalent in other systems of medicine. For the better understanding of this vast science, our ancient seers divided this whole treatise into 8 different sections. Like the branches of a tree from the same trunk, the 8 branches of Ayurveda rooted on the same fundamental basic principles reach the same goal. Let’s have a look at these 8 branches of Ayurveda and what it deals with in general.
Most of us are unaware of these facilities available in Ayurveda. This would be an eye opener for those who feel that Ayurveda is only for the old age or for those with history of stroke or so. Apart from the above mentioned branches, there are texts in Ayurveda which explains the various conditions of plants called Vrkshayurvdea, health conditions of animals like elephants, horses, cows etc called Hastiayurveda/ Gajayurveda, Aswayurveda and Mrgayurveda or Pashuayurveda. Though it is a traditional ancient living system of medicine with a sound philosophical background, there is yet a need for advanced research/ acceptability for the promotion of Ayurveda.  Curd lovers- satiate your cravings
The science of medicine- Ayurveda that originated in ancient India has a huge treasure of knowledge about the eating habits for staying hale and hearty. Curd is one of the popular milk products that’s enjoyed by many along with their meals. The creamy, slightly sour, curd has been a part of our diet and of our ancestors since the Vedic times. Made by souring boiled milk naturally, curd has a wide variety of bacteria that nurture our digestive system and boost the overall immunity This fermented food is sour in taste and is extremely healthy for the stomach. It is good for the gut and moisturizes the skin as well. It helps in boosting the immune system, improves the digestion and contributes to weight loss..A powerhouse of riboflavin, Vitamin A, Vitamin B6, Vitamin B12, and pantothenic acid, curd also has lactic acid which helps in absorption of nutrients Curd is sour in taste, hot in nature, is heavy to digest increases fat , improves strength, increases kapha and pitta (reduced Vata) and improves agni Avoid making these mistakes while eating curd *One should not consume curd at night. The curd is heavy to digest. It is also hot in potency. Therefore, when consumed at night, it may interfere with your sleep as extra energy is required for its digestion. It also triggers the secretion of mucus making the condition adverse for individuals suffering from asthma. As per the Ayurveda, curd pacifies vata, but increases kapha and pitta dosha. During the night, the Kapha Dosha upsurges. Thus, if the curd is consumed during the night, the effect of Kapha Dosha is augmented. In case you cannot refrain yourself from eating curd at night, you can eat it only after adding a pinch of black pepper and rock salt. Other options such as ghee, amla, and honey can also be added to curd when you consume it at night. Alternatively, you can substitute curd by buttermilk. It will help in clearing the mucus secretions. *Curd should not be heated . if you heat the curd, it can alter its properties which can lead to suffocation and swelling in your body. *The daily consumption of curd is prohibited in Ayurveda. It is because curd is known to be heavy in nature and increases inflammation in the body. The only variation that can be consumed on a regular basis is churned buttermilk that has added spices such as rock salt, black pepper and cumin. *One should always avoid eating curd when a person has a bleeding disorder. Thus, if you are someone who has heavy period flow or nasal bleeding, it is considered best to avoid curd at all in your meals. *Do not mix your curd with fruits as it is a channel blocker incompatible food. Long-time consumption would trigger metabolic issues and allergies. *Curd is incompatible with meat and fish. Any combination of curd cooked along with meats such as chicken, mutton, or fish will produce toxins in the body.  Within Ayurveda, tulsi is known as “The Incomparable One,” “Mother
Medicine of Nature” and “The Queen of Herbs,” and is revered as an “elixir of life” that is without equal for both its medicinal and spiritual properties. Characteristics of the Tulsi Plant A member of the basil family (Lamiaceae), its leaves can be green or purple, depending on the variety. Tulsi has a pungent rasa (taste), a heating veerya (energetic effect), and a pungent vipaka (post-digestive effect). Balancing for vata and kapha doshas, it may increase pittha in excess. Not just one, there are three different types of tulsi According to Ayurvedic texts, the three different types of tulsi are: rama (green leaf) tulsi, shyama (purple leaf) tulsi, and vana (wild leaf) tulsi. Although all three types of tulsi have their uses in Ayurveda, green leaved rama-tulsi is the most widely used. What Is Tulsi Used For? Tulsi has many benefits for the body, mind, and spirit, offering support on both physical and subtle levels. Some of the benefits of tulsi include: The herb stimulates neurotransmitters that regulate the hormones responsible for including happiness and energy. Chewing 10-12 fresh Tulsi leaves control stress and manage anxiety. Tulsi is renowned for its support of the lungs, removing kapha buildup, and promoting healthy, uncongested breathing. Tulsi helps promote healthy weight management thanks to its effect in the adipose tissue layer Balancing Vata and Kapha Doshas. In addition to its ability to balance kapha in the lungs, it also balances excess kapha and vata in the head and nerves, and is often used to soothe vata in the digestive tract Skin Care Properties of Tulsi help prevent the formation of acne. Juice of Tulsi leaves is used in treating ringworm and skin disorders. This beneficial herb as skin ointments for treating leucoderma. It also prevents premature ageing and keeps the skin healthy. Vitamin C and A, phytonutrients, in Holy Basil are great antioxidants and protect the skin from almost all the damages caused by free radicals.It can also reduce the itchiness of the scalp as well as control hair fall. Extracts made from its leaves are thought to boost wound healing speed and strength. Tulsi plant is known to enhance livers health which is why it aids in improving the digestion system. The decoction of tulsi leaves, neem leaves, powder of ginger and powder of long pepper has the ability to reduce fever and its symptoms considerably. Tulsi leaves show a positive impact in reducing cholesterol level in the body, thereby helpful in preventing cardiac diseases. Eugenol also proves useful in reducing cholesterol levels in the blood. Vitamin K is an essential fat-soluble vitamin that plays an important role in bone health and heart health. Tulsi acts a mild diuretic & detoxifying agent which helps in lowering the uric acid levels in the body. Acetic acid present in holy basil helps in the breakdown of the stones. Tulsi is a natural headache reliever which can also relieve migraine pain. A decoction of tulsi leaves makes a good medicine for headache. Pounded leaves mixed with sandalwood paste can be applied on the forehead for relief. Holy basil destroys the bacteria that are responsible for dental cavities, plaque, tartar, and bad breath, while also protecting the teeth. Tulsi tea can be effective in managing type 2 Diabetes. It’s one of the most preferred herbal teas for managing Diabetes. Tulsi contains zinc and vitamin C, two components that help fight infections. Daily intake of Tulsi leaves helps to boost immunity. Side effects of tulsi Leaves Affects male and female fertility In a study conducted on animals, it was discovered that tulsi could lower sperm motility and count in animals when consumed in large quantities. It is wise for males with infertility issues to prevent this negative effect by lowering the consumption of the herb Lowers blood sugar Tulsi is known to reduce blood sugar levels. However, if a person is currently taking Diabetes medication, consuming tulsi leaves could increase the effect and cause the sugar level to drop too low. Harmful to those patients on blood-thinners Blood thinning is a known side effect of the tulsi plant. People who use anti- clotting medicine should avoid basil leaf consumption. Pregnancy Tulsi leaves can have an impact on the health of a pregnant woman and her unborn child. In extreme circumstances, it may even result in miscarriage. The herb may lead to potentially harmful uterine contractions. Damages tooth enamel Tulsi leaves shouldn’t be chewed since they contain mercury, which harms the enamel.Tulsi contains mercury, which when chewed, releases in the mouth and damages and discolours the teeth. Additionally, tulsi leaves are acidic by nature, but the mouth is alkaline, which can hasten the deterioration of the tooth enamel. To prevent tooth discolouration, one should just swallow them down.  Alzheimer’s is a brain disorder that severely affects one’s memory, thinking, learning, organizing, reasoning, and analyzing skills; and the ability to carry out simple daily activities It’s the most common cause of dementia. An Alzheimer’s disease is a physical disease that progressively affects the brain. It’s a progressive disease in the sense that, it gradually affects and damages more part of the brain, over time.
As the condition gets worse, the patients face difficulties with-
What causes AD: The cause of Alzheimer's disease is poorly understood. About 70% of the risk is believed to be genetic with many genes usually involved. Other risk factors include a history of Head injuries, Depression and Hypertension. Ayurvedic Treatment for Alzheimer’s disease:
 BRAHMI: THE AYURVEDA HERB OF GRACE
Brahmi is often known for its benefits on brain health. Vallarai Keerai is a time-tested herb in Ayurveda, that is categorized as a “Medhya Rasayana” plant, meaning natural produce that remarkably promotes mental faculties, mood, memory and thinking However, that doesn’t explain everything about how it can be helpful. Here’s a more comprehensive list of benefits: Brahmi can help enhance memory, increase intelligence, and boost concentration. Brahmi can decrease the cortisol levels in the body and reduces stress and anxiety Brahmi supplements are cooling and relaxing and can make excellent supplements for optimizing Pitta. It can help calm the Vata in the mind and can help eliminate excess Kapha in the body. It is one of the top Ayurvedic herbs to help reduce stress. Vallarai Keerai, also known as Gotu Kola, is a powerful medicinal herb that confers immense health benefits primarily for enhancing brain activity and nervous system functioning, besides mitigating joint pain in arthritis, healing stomach ulcers and decreasing stress, anxiety. Scientifically known as Centella Asiatica, this green leafy plant is locally called “Vallarai Keerai” in Tamil, “Mandukaparni” in Sanskrit, “Sarswati” in Hindi and “Swaraswataku” in Telugu. Vallarai keerai is a popular green leafy vegetable utilised extensively in conventional South Indian cooking. The other segments of the plant, namely the stem, flowers and fruits are also used in numerous natural home remedies for skin ailments like eczema, boosting memory, aiding in digestion, in Ayurveda practice in India as well as in traditional Chinese medicine. Vallarai Keerai Nutrition Facts: A flourishing herbal wonder, vallarai keerai abounds in Vitamin C. It is also low in calories to help maintain body weight and supplies adequate essential dietary fibers and proteins. Furthermore, it also offers the key spectrum of B vitamins to regulate metabolism and cellular energy requirements. Vallarai Keerai Benefits For Health: Improves Brain Functions Consuming a small portion of vallarai keerai as part of daily diet stimulates the neurotransmitter activity in the CNS, thereby ensuring normal relay of nerve signals from the brain to the other organs in the body, as well as heightened cognitive abilities. Boosts Immune System Consuming just a moderate quantity of vallarai keerai will satisfy the daily vitamin C requirement in healthy adults. Maintains Heart Health It also functions in promoting cardiac muscle activity, lowers the amounts of bad LDL cholesterol and raises levels of good HDL cholesterol. Relaxes Muscle Cramps The significantly high mineral content in vallarai keerai makes it an ideal option to provide relief from muscle sores and cramps. Treats Constipation Consuming some vallarai keerai soup also efficiently relieves intestinal conditions like constipation and indigestion. Fortifies Bones The calcium present in vallarai keerai is absorbed by bones in the body, thereby helping to maintain optimal bone density for day-to-day functions and flexible, unobstructed movement. Combats Urinary Tract Infection (UTI) Vallarai keerai offers profuse amounts of vitamin C that confers anti- inflammatory properties to reduce swelling in the bladder, which is more common in women than men. Helps Cure Anemia Taking some vallarai keerai salad with meals will guarantee ample uptake of iron, from foods, into the system and promote red blood cell synthesis and blood passage. Ensures Deep Sleep Insomnia and anxiety are a result of an agitated, nervous, panicked mental state and Gotu kola is an excellent tranquilising agent that soothes stress, tension, promotes sound uninterrupted sleep at night, alleviates undue worry and augments brain health. Vallarai keerai is a panacea for human health, offering marvellous benefits for maintaining brain functions, heart health, lung, liver and kidney operations. It also supports strong bones and muscles and is a proven herb for healing depression, anxiety and mental stress. Effect On Doshas Vallarai Keerai, in essence, has a slightly madhura rasa (sweet taste) with intrinsically laghu and ruksha gunas (light and dry qualities). It possesses ushna virya (heating potency), balancing the kapha (earth and water) dosha (element) while excessively influencing pitta (fire and water) and vata (air and ether) doshas. Moreover, it fosters the positive and equalizing states of mind namely sattva and rajas, effectively eliminating tamas or a negative mindset. Ameliorates Depression Symptoms It is also a wonderful solution for improving conditions of memory loss and nerve decline in neurodegenerative disorders such as dementia, Alzheimer’s and others. Offers Anti-Aging Benefits Eating a gotu kola salad or drinking the juice will also help to boost the production of collagen, a protein essential for maintaining the elasticity and firmness of skin texture.  The power of holy durva grass
Durva is a sacred grass and has a special significance when it comes to Lord Ganesha. The word ‘durva’ is derived from the words ‘duhu’ and ‘avam’. ‘Duhu’ means, that which is far away and ‘avam’ means that which brings closer. Thus, in a way, we can say that the Durva grass brings the Ganesha devotees closer to him. It is especially an important offering when you perform Ganesh puja. The Durva grass consists of three blades which represent the three principles of primal Shiva, primal Shakti and primal Ganesha. Durva is said to have the highest ability to attract the Ganesha principle which explains why it is an important offering made to Lord Ganesha. Durva grass is a traditional herb used in the preparation of Ayurvedic medicines since time immemorial. Durva is a perennial creeping grass which grows in any type of soil. The spreading nature of the grass could be the reason for Durva to be known as the Devil’s grass. Durva in Sanskrit means “which is cut or eaten by animals”. Durva grass is a storehouse of healthy nutrients like proteins, calcium, potassium, fibre, phosphorous, carotene, sitosterol. BENEFITS OF DURVA - Enhances immune function -Durva grass contains protein fractions which enhance the immune modulator activity that helps in optimizing the immune system. Cures skin problems-A paste of the Durva grass mixed with turmeric and applied on the affected area is a remedy for a host of skin related disorders. Improves digestion-To treat acidity, one should take juice of Cynodon dactylon (3-4 tsp) and water (1 glass) empty stomach in the morning. This mix is quite effective not only for acidity but also beneficial for stomach ulcer, colitis, and stomach infections. Controls blood sugar levels- Doob grass juice along with neem leaf juice is good in normalizing blood sugar level. Relieves stress -Consumption of Durva grass juice regularly relieves stress and strengthens the nervous system. Epitaxis -Cynodon dactylon is effective in stopping of nose bleeding . For this, one has to put 2 drops of doob grass juice on the bleeding nostril. Purifies blood-Juice of Durva taken every morning on an empty stomach is said to detoxify the body. Boosts heart health-Regular consumption of Durva grass juice helps in reducing weight and the cholesterol levels. Cure for conjunctivitis -A few drops of the juice is dropped in the eyes to treat conjunctivitis. Cares for Hb -Durva contains 65% of chlorophyll thus is a natural remedy for treating anemia as it increases the red blood cells Good for a woman’s overall health- A spoon of the Durva grass juice taken along with yoghurt is effective in treating Urinary tract infection and vaginal discharge in women. Durva strengthens the uterus and is highly beneficial for curing abortion. It is a natural remedy for PCOS (poly cystic ovarian syndrome) and boosts production of prolactin It is very effective in treating excessive blood loss during menstruation. Relieves oral problems-It is used to treat bleeding gums and bad breath. How to consume Durva grass- a few strands of Durva grass should be taken and washed properly with clean water. A fine paste should be made by adding a little water to it. One spoonful of this paste should be mixed in a glass of warm water or milk in order to avail health benefits from it.  Tackling Migraine with Ayurveda
With the increasingly busy lifestyle, stress, lack of sleep, and unhealthy eating habits, migraine is becoming a growing concern even in young adults. Ayurveda, the world’s oldest system of medicine, provides holistic healing in the severest cases of Migraine by offering root-cause based personalized treatment and medicines. Migraines are defined as a neurological condition that gives rise to headaches which can be mild, moderate or severe in intensity. It occurs due to abnormal brain activity affecting nerve signals, chemicals and blood vessels in the brain . It is often accompanied by nausea, vomiting, numbness, tingling, sensitivity to light and sound. Migraine attacks can last from 4-72 hours and the pain can be severe. About three out of four people who have migraines are women. Migraine is known as Suryavartha soola in Ayurveda, where Surya means Sun and avartha means arise of affliction, thus the aggravation of pain with light and heat. However, the type of migraine headache may be different according to a person’s individual constitution. Symptoms Varies between Pulsating headache, often on one side,Nausea,Sensitivity to light, noise, and odours,Pulsating and recurrent pain,Blurred vision,Light headedness,Fatigue. Causes The exact cause of migraine is not well-known but genetic and environmental causes play an important role. We know in Ayurveda they can be caused by a Pitta-Vata imbalance. Physical Factors like low blood sugar, wrong posture, sleep deprivation, exhaustion, over exposure to intense lights, sounds, or smells, severe weather changes, frequent travelling .Emotional Factors Like Stress, excitement, depression, inability to handle emotions, overwhelm and anxiety .Dietary factors Like skipping meals, alcohol and caffeine consumption, soy products and artificial sweeteners are responsible create imbalance in the body.Hormonal causes Like Menstrual cycles, menopause, birth control pills and hormone replacement therapy that cause the hormonal levels to fluctuate can spark migraines. Ayurvedic approach to treat migraine headaches The goal of Ayurvedic treatment for migraine is to pacify the vitiated doshas and restore the digestive function of your body with a combination of therapies and treatment that enhance the ojas (vitality), relaxes the mind and strengthens the nervous system. Role of Panchakarma therapies in treating migraine Panchakarma therapies cleanse the body of toxic materials (ama), purifies the tissues at a very deep level, eliminates the harmful ama and balances the doshas.Special treatments like Sirodhara, Shiroabhyanga, Sirovasti etc. helps to nourish the nerve system and thereby the action of Vata is normalised. Nasya-Nasya (administering of herbal preparations through the nostrils) is one of the treatments which directly acts on the nerves and removes the toxins accumulated in the sinuses. Other Panchakarma treatments like Vasti (enema), and Virechana (purgation) also help to eliminate toxins from the body. Shirodhara: In Shirodhara, a continuous stream of warm oil is poured over the area where the nerves are highly concentrated i.e. the forehead. This way the pressure of the oil forms a vibration on the forehead which helps the nervous system and mind experience mental relaxation. Sirolepam - Shirolepa is the application of effective herbal pastes containing camphor, sandalwood, jatamansi, and many more on the affected area. Best Ayurvedic Herbs for Migraine include Bala, kumari, Mallika, Amalaki, sariva, yastimadhu, hareetaki and many more Dos and Don’ts for Migraine
 In Panchakarma treatment, five procedures are undertaken for eliminating the vitalized doshas from the body. The five procedures form the basic types of Vasti.Vasti has a great healing capability and is considered to be the half treatment for many diseases. The treatment is primarily used for flushing out loosened doshas from the body via the intestinal tract.Ayurvedic therapeutic enema is advised as the prime and the most important treatment to balance vata (the air factor) and to address all the three doshas (humors)Doshas.
It is rendered in two ways: The first is by channelizing warm medicated oils or decoctions on the affected areas of the body through a concentrated channel made from herbal pastes or leather; the second is through medicated enema. It is a highly effective treatment that helps treat multiple Dosha disorders, degenerative disorders, neurological ailments, rheumatic complaints etc. How are Ayurvedic therapeutic enemas performed? Before administration of the Ayurvedic therapeutic enema, body is prepared by massaging with herbalized oils and then applying steam. After that when you are lying down, herbal formulations are introduced using an enema bag by an expert. Once the administration is finished, abdomen, lower back, hands and feet are massaged vigorously to improve absorption. The herbs can remain in the bowel for a few minutes to many hours (according to the type of the formulation) before it is eliminated. Types of Ayurvedic therapeutic enema: According to the herbal formulations used and dose, enemas are classified mainly into 2. Oil Enema (Snehavasti): In Sneha Vasti, only medicated oils or ghrithams are used unlike in other vastis, where a combination of various ingredients with predominant decoctions are used. Oil enema helps to lubricate the colon, softens hard facal matter and stimulates bowel movements. Oil enema is the ideal treatment for vata imbalance. Generally oil enema is advised after food, Usually multiple sessions of oil enemas are advised for specific illnesses and long lasting results. Herbal Enema (Kashaya vasti): A combination of decoction, honey, oil, salt and other herbal medicines are used for this enema. It is the main treatment for all Vata disorders. There are thousands of formulations for herbal enema to address different imbalances and illnesses. It helps in pacifying the Vata Dosha and restores its equilibrium. It also helps to some extent in maintaining the balance between all the three Doshas namely Vata, Pitta & Kapha; thereby maintaining a state of health.By selecting appropriate herbs and formulations, herbal enemas can be used to correct any imbalance and disease (provided the imbalance is reversible and the individual is not contraindicated for herbal enema eg. pregnancy, children, elderly, physically too weak, etc). Herbal enema is highly recommended in case of
 Ayurveda factors in three pillars of health, Ahara (Nutrition), Vihar (Balanced lifestyle), and Nidra (Sleep). It’s no wonder that sleep and nutrition are accorded equal importance! According to the root text, Charaka Samhita, ‘happiness, nourishment, strength, virility, knowledge, and life itself depend on proper sleep’.
Sleep according to Ayurveda: “Yada Tu Manasi Klante Karmaatmanah Klamaanvitaha | Vishayebhyo Nivartante Tadaa Swapati Maanavaha” (Cha Su 21/ 35) According to the Ayurvedic clock, it’s best to wake up before sunrise and sleep before 10 p.m., when the kapha period has induced dullness in the body. It’s also important to have a gap of at least 2 hours between dinner and sleep time. An ideal time for dinner is 7 p.m. If you’re eating a late dinner, aim for something light and eat 2 hours before you go to sleep. Sleep can be physiological, induced by Tamas (lethargy), Kapha, mental or physical exertion, illnesses and stress, improper nutrition, lifestyle, and environmental factors can cause,
Insomnia is a very profound sleeping disorder, generally followed by day time sleepiness, low energy, lethargy, fatigue, irritability. The cases of insomnia are ever growing. Factors like stress, lifestyle habits and dietary choices have a severe impact on sleep and gradually develop into insomnia. Ayurvedic remedies for a good night’s sleep *Regular practice of yoga along with pranayama, or deep breathing exercise, in the morning also helps in improved sleep. Here's how Ayurveda could help for a better sleep *Some common Ayurvedic herbs for improved sleep quality include: Brahmi,(vallarai)Vacha(vasambu),Ashwagandha(amukkuram),Jatamansi(jatamaamsi),tagara(tagarai),Shankhapushpi(sankhapusphi),Jyotishmati(Valulurai) *Applying stimulating oils like Bhringaraja thailam,himasagara thailam ,chandanadi thailam,ksheerabala thailam , Tila Taila on the head and pressing down on the scalp in gentle, circular motions remarkably soothes the mind. *The juice extracts from sugarcane regulates mood, memory and sleep, hence ensuring uninterrupted rest at night. *Milk is a great sleep supporter. You can also add some crushed almonds(badaam), a pinch of nutmeg(jaathi kaai), and a pinch of cardamom, for a flavourful and healthy potion right before you tuck into your bed. *Add one teaspoon of Brahmi and Ashwagandha powder in two glasses of water. Boil them and then reduce it to one glass and drink it daily at least once for best results. * Have one teaspoon of licorice root powder(adi madhura podi) with a glass of cold milk every morning on an empty stomach, for instant and best results *The combination of milk and honey is the best to induce sleep and has been practiced for a long time *Chronic cases of insomnia may be treated with shirodhara, a procedure where oil is slowly poured on the forehead. *Internal medications like manasamitra vatakam ,aswagandharistam,saraswatha ristam ,kallyana ghritha can help |