Natural Remedies For Diarrhoea In Summer Season

Abstract

Needless to say, stomach health is very important to show our overall fitness, when we eat the food and is properly digested then we ensure our total well-being. But the food we take is not properly digested, which could give rise to several types of ailments like malabsorption of essential supplements which may lead to weakness, dehydration or sickness. During summers the chances of having stomach sickness is almost doubled than any other season. Diarrhoea is a very common problem during summers that can happen with anyone in the summer season. This condition is usually caused by infectious bacterias or viruses or contaminated food or water. This disease shows symptoms like frequent watery stools or cramps in the abdomen. In this article we are going to discuss the Natural remedies to help you feel better from diarrhoea in the summer season.

Introduction

Diarrhoea in summer season, is a very common ailment, if you don't take proper dietary supplements,then it can lead to improper nourishment of the body and may result in acute dehydration. In the summer season, the risk of these digestive disorders doubles and diarrhoea is one of the baneful conditions of GI Tract, the main reason behind this ailment is food-borne infections. The unhygienic food is the main reason, consumption of intolerable food items can lead to uncontrollable laxative abuse, reduced immune response or even stress can be the leading cause of this ailment. Our stomach is tolerating ever-widening menu of strange foods, chemicals, additives, colours, dyes, processing chemicals, with all this junk material we don't even try to give strength to our digestive system by doing exercises or yoga, even we often eat or irregular times, late night work or parties, very less exercise, insufficient sleep, and stressful life.

What is Diarrhoea?

Diarrhoea is not a disease but this is a symptom of various health related conditions, this is commonly shown as the clinical feature of the GI Tract infections, mainly caused due to the unhygienic food or contaminated water, spicy food preferences, emotional factors or other stressful conditions. In Summers we have very low digestive fire, that gets even more weakened due to our overeating.

In Ayurveda, Diarrhoea is referred to as the Atisara. This is the ailment that is developed due to vitiation of udaka vaha srotas, annavaha srotas, purisha vaha srotas. Cardinal sign of atisaar is frequent watery stools and this is due to the increased ama dosha in the body. Ama dosha can be correlated with undigested toxicated food that leads to diarrhoea. Ama dosha can be originated with highly intake of kledak ahara (intake of junk foods,oily foods, white refined flour foods that leads to increased tridosha), virudhashan (taking wrong food combinations like seafood and milk together, sour curd and milk together), adhyashan (excessive food intake without digested the previous meal), vishmashan (eating fastly and heavy food intake).

Acute diarrhoea always leads to passage of watery fluids that are not formed properly, or shows symptoms like pain in abdomen, dehydration, may lead to emesis or fever. These symptoms may last up to 24 to 48 hours and patients should take proper water intake during the diarrhoea to maintain the proper balance of water and electrolytes. Restrict those foods who do not digest properly, or take more time to digest. Add rice to your meal, semolina, or cereals to get proper digestion.

Let's discuss about the Natural remedies to help you feel better from diarrhoea in summer season -

• Water plays a major role to replenish the fluid and electrolyte loss.
• Soups are also advisable so that sodium can be restored by the salt in soup.
• Banana or chikoo juice can also be added for electrolyte replacement.
• Oral rehydration solutions are also advisable to replenish the fluid intake.
• Eat less solid foods rather than take a semisolid diet.
• Don't take overnight stale food, it can lead to stomach ailments.
• Take freshly prepared food devoid of bacterias and germs, avoid chutneys, sweets, or pani puri stalls due to increased risk of bacterial infections here.
• Try to filter or take boiled water during summers.
• Start taking clean vegetables and fruits from the market that don't contain insects or infected bacterias in them.
• Take sour taste food like buttermilk, tomatoes, lemons to help you to balance the electrolytes.
• Chamomile tea helps to relieve the pain in the stomach, and gives anti-inflammatory effects, and relaxes the abdominal muscles.
• Ginger tea is one of the best home remedies to increase the immunity, and strengthens the GI Tract, helps in empowering the digestion process.
• Apple cider vinegar along with water and honey helps to make the stomach healthier, and strengthens the gut flora.
• Cumin, coriander, mint and lemon water is very beneficial in summers, it helps to give cooling effects in the burning sensation of the stomach, has anti-inflammatory properties, supports the smooth flow of digestive juices and boosts the immunity.
• Pomegranate juice and coconut water is also very beneficial in giving wonderful results in improper digestion or helps to improve the digestive fire, giving a soothing effect on the body.
• Avoid heavy meals and overeating, irregular meals, and the wrong combination of meals.

In Classical Ayurvedic texts, various herbal remedies are mentioned to treat this condition are -

1. Shadanga Paniya consists of Mustak (Cyperus rotundus), udeechya (Pavonia odorata), parpataka (Fumaria indica), usheer (Vetiveria zizanioides), rakta chandan (Santalum album), Nagar or shunthi (Zingiber officinalis) these herbs are taken and added 64 parts of water and reduce it to half, then filter and ready to use. This herbal remedy is used to replenish the fluid and electrolyte imbalance and have anti-inflammatory properties.
2. Dhanya Panchak Kwath consists of dhaniya (Coriandrum sativum), mustak (Cyperus rotundus), udeechya (Pavonia odorata), Nagar (Zingiber officinalis), bilva (Aegle marmelos) is prepared by taking 16 parts of water and reduce upto ¼ th part then filter it to take 10 ml twice daily that helps in indigestion, diarrhoea, malabsorption etc.

Conclusion

In this article we have discussed the herbal and home remedies of diarrhoea. Diarrhoea is very common in the summer season which is the result of the various infectious bacterias that are taken as unhygienic food or water. Herbal home remedies helps to strengthen our bowel system, helps to digest the food properly, enhances the digestive fire, replenishes the fluid and electrolyte imbalance, and boosts the immunity.

What is Shiatsu Massage Therapy? Definition, Benefits & Techniques

ABSTRACT

Shiatsu is a form of Japanese bodywork which is based on the concept of traditional Chinese medicine, a modified form of massage therapy. Massage therapy is a trained, certified form which is helpful in manipulating the soft tissue of the body, muscles and connective tissue and tendons. It is an integrative medicine which is helpful in relieving stress, increasing relaxation and improving immune functions. It is done with fingers, elbows and knees which is helpful in the treatment of body stress and pain. It comes from the french word friction of kneading. In ayurveda massage plays a very important role which is very important. Dincharya is helpful in stimulating the lymphatic system, improving the immune system and reducing fatigue-ness. Massage is helpful in enhancing the skeletal system and in remodeling, activates the parasympathetic system which releases endorphins and serotonin, increases the flow of lymph and improves sleep. It is helpful in increasing human well-being, decreasing anxiety and rehabilitating sports injuries. In this article, we are going to discuss the history, causes and ayurvedic aspects in detail.

INTRODUCTION

Shiatsu is a form of massage therapy which involves the hand, thumb and other body parts which directly apply pressure to the various points and channels of the body. It originated in Japan and its manual therapies include acupuncture and anma. Shiatsu has the root concept of qi which means the vital life force which drives all activities of life. Qi is helpful in balancing the unblocked flow of energy. The pressure which is applied to the body promotes the flow of energy and disharmony throughout the body and relaxes the autonomic nervous system. Shiatsu is helpful in reducing blood pressure and is acting like a natural body pain killer. It is done mainly through deep pressure which is applied with the palm by using static pressure. These techniques used in shiatsu include stretching, holding and leaning body weight into various key channels. There are different types of Shiatsu massage- Ashiatsu (is a technique which uses the foot to deeply massage tissues and muscles). Ohashiatsu- (a form of massage which involves meditation which feels grounded), Five elements of Shiatsu (which concentrate on balancing energy using traditional shiatsu energy), Zen (an active deep muscle massage by applying pressures with palms and elbows to provide massage with the help of palms, elbows and fists).

HISTORY OF SHIATSU

Shiatsu is traditional Chinese medicine and was introduced first when Chinese medicine was introduced in japan. This includes various healing modalities which are practised in modern times by applying hands and fingers across the body parts. In 1912, Tokujiro namikoshi healed his mother who was suffering from rheumatoid he used finger and hand massage techniques which he named Amna and Shiatsu massage which is recognised by the Japanese government as a healing modality. It was popularized in the 17th century by acupuncturist Sugiyama Waichi during which massage in Japan has been associated with blindness. Shiatsu is based on traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) which is helpful in the relaxation of the body and mind which amplifies the ability of the body to heal itself.

BASIC TECHNIQUES FOR SHIATSU MASSAGE

Shiatsu is an ideal way for people who are stressed, in pain and in various forms of medical conditions to get relief.

The following basic techniques of Shiatsu are-

• CanBeaky - It is a form of massage which involves a gentle rocking motion to relieve pressure on the nervous system. It is helpful for the body to relax and rest comfortably.
• Pressure - It mainly requires the thumb, palm and knees. It is the most effective technique where the patient is lying on the floor and the therapist uses his body weight to apply pressure. This is helpful in improving balance and restfulness.
• Stretching - This is a good way to balance the energy pathway, here the patient arm is stretched by leaning the back of the body and giving effort from arm to neck.
• Rotation - This is an effective therapy by manipulating joints in a circular motion by moving the knee to relieve tension between thighs. It works on the ankle and provides a soothing effect.

BENEFITS OF SHIATSU MASSAGE

• It is helpful in improving circulation and reduces constipation.
• It is scientifically proven that this technique is promoting emotional and physical calm which reduces the tension in the body.
• Helpful with insomnia.
• Decreases depressive symptoms.
• Helpful in bringing relief to arthritis patients.
• Helpful in poor posture and in acute-chronic pains.
• Reduces the blood pressure and heart rate while increasing endorphins which is a natural painkiller.
• Improves the bowel functions.
• Decreases depression.
• Improves the quality of sleep and relaxation.
• It is also effective in inducing spontaneous labor in women who suffer from post-term pregnancy.
• It regulates the autonomic nervous system and stimulates the lymphatic and hormonal systems.
• Sinusitis, Bronchitis are easily treatable with Shiatsu massage.

RISK FACTORS

• Acute illness
• High blood pressure
• Blood cancer such as leukemia
• Varicose vein
• Undergoing chemotherapy
• Recent wounds and scars
• Viruses such as chickenpox and flu
• Osteoporosis
• Inflammation
• Burns
• Athlete's foot
• The patient has a limited range of motion, underwent surgery, and a poor immune system
• Uncontrolled diabetes

AYURVEDIC ASPECT

In ayurveda, Shiatsu can be done in the form of abhyanga which is performed with medicated oils or without oil. Abhyanga is a massage which is done on the entire body from the scalp to the soles of the feet. It is the most popular massage in Ayurveda which maintains health through natural practices. The prime aspiration of ayurveda is to maintain the health of the healthy person which heals and rejuvenates the individual. Abhyanga controls the Vata doshas. The word abhyanga is derived from Abhi (towards) +Anjana (to smear)+Abhyanjana (to massage the whole body). It is helpful in providing the body with strength, mobility and flexibility. Improves the functioning of the musculoskeletal system, clears stiffness and leads to lightness in the body.

CLASSIFICATION OF ABHYANGA

On the basis of the nature of the drug-

1. Dry massage
2. Powder massage
3. Oil massage

On the basis of movement (Swedish)-

1. Touch - The sensation is carried to the brain
2. Stroke - Movement with one or both palms slowly
3. Friction - Grasp the part and little amount of movement
4. Kneading - Compression of the tissues

The human body has 107 marmas and the prana (energy) resides at this point if abhyanga is performed positive energy is generated. It protects, rejuvenates and increases the immunity towards external environmental changes making abhyanga the most important part of daily activities. This therapy works by unlocking the sensitive power in the body known as Srotas. The major marmas correspond to 7 chakras or the energy center of the body which radiates to the torso limbs. In Marma therapy light stimulation of the body is done which removes the blockages by giving physical and psychological relaxation and strength.

CLASSIFICATION OF MARMA

• Sadyah Pranahara Marma
• Kalantara Pranahara Marma
• Vishalya Ghana
• Vaikalyakara
• Rujakara Marma

ROLE OF MARMA

• Removes the blocked energy channels which are known as srotas.
• It is helpful in pacifying the Vata doshas (air and space elements)
• Creates physical and emotional flexibility.
• Creates an opportunity to experience powerful physical and emotional transformation and builds a positive link with the unconscious mind.

BENEFITS OF MARMA THERAPY

• It is helpful in getting relief from chronic and acute pain.
• Detoxification at all levels.
• Provides a healthier and more radiant appearance (increases the flow of blood and decreases pigmentation).
• It is helpful in balancing the doshas and whole body temperatures.
• Releases neurochemicals such as serotonin for improved sleep.
• Improves the functions of body organs and functions, immunity and respiratory functions.
• Provides better metabolism.
• Reduces muscle stiffness and increases the mobility of tight muscles.
• Promotes lymphatic drainage (as it removes the body waste and fluid in the lymphatic system which causes swelling).
• Improves vision and increases alertness.

In Shiatsu medicated oils are not used, but if a patient suffers from a lot of problems then Nirgundi oil and Dhanwantharam oil can be used. Nirgundi Oil and Dhanwantharam Oil from planet Ayurveda are helpful as they have anti-inflammatory properties hence balancing Vata and Kapha doshas. Provides a soothing effect.

CONCLUSION

Shiatsu is a form of Japanese bodywork which is based on the concept of traditional Chinese medicine, a modified form of massage therapy. Shiatsu is a form of massage therapy which involves the hand, thumb and other body parts which directly apply pressure to the various points and channels of the body. It originated in Japan and its manual therapies include acupuncture and anma. It is done mainly through deep pressure which is applied with the palm by using static pressure. In ayurveda, Shiatsu can be done in the form of abhyanga which is performed with medicated oils or without oil. Abhyanga is a massage which is done on the entire body from the scalp to the soles of the feet.

Haritaki Ghan Vati - Ingredients, Method Of Preparation & Its Uses

Abstract

Haritaki ghan vati is a classical formulation manufactured by Planet Ayurveda in an ancient manner to give effective and successful results in the various diseases. It is an marvellous herbal formulation prepared under the guidance or supervision of MD Ayurveda Doctors. This articulation widely used in digestive tract disorders and is said to be very beneficial in maintaining the balance of blood sugar level, helps to improvise the liver functions and keeps the doshas in a normal state. Planet Ayurveda manufactures the herbal articulations in a sophisticated manner so they are totally free form side-effects, or any type of fillers, preservatives, additives, starch, colours, yeast, binders and neither used any type of adulterants. Our products are 100% natural and give marvellous results to the concerned patients. In this article we are going to discuss the Haritaki Ghan Vati and its benefits according to its properties.

Introduction

Ayurveda is a traditional science of medicine in India, is full of natural remedies for both health diseases and beauty needs, so today we are here to discuss the versatile Ayurvedic herb Haritaki. This is an important herb of Ayurveda science and also read in Siddha medicine. This herb is prized as the "king of medicines" and also designated by the quotation "mother of the humans". It is popularly known as the Terminalia chebula and is lying under the Combretaceae family, commonly called as Harad in hindi. The fruit is small, oblong in shape and also less than an inch in size, the fruits are collected when they are in green in colour or in raw form and then keep dried until it turns to golden brown or black in colour, then it is used as in powder form or can be formulated as in the tablet form. The potency or work capability is based on the area where it is grown or according to the season, and its colour.

Haritaki Therapeutic Properties

• Rasa (Taste) - Haritaki includes five rasa except the Lavan (Salt) rasa, it is dominant in Kashaya (Astringent) rasa.
• Guna (Quality) - Laghu (Light), Ruksha (Dryness) in nature
• Veerya (Potency) - Ushna (hot)
• Vipaka (Post digestive effect) - Madhur (sweet)
• Karma (Action) - Balances the Vata, Pitta and Kapha dosha and uplifts the overall health
• Projyang (Part used) - Fruits, roots and bark can be used
• Varieties of Haritaki - In Bhavprakash, there are seven types of haritaki that have been mentioned - Vijaya, Rohini, Pootana, Amrita, Abhaya, Jeevanti, Chetaki

Pharmacological Actions Of Haritaki

Due to its Madhur, tikta, kashaya ras it pacifies Pitta dosha, and due to katu, tikta, kashaya rasa it pacifies Kapha dosha and due to its madhur and amla dosha it pacifies Vata dosha.

This herb is very helpful in -

• Vyasthapan (reduces pain)
• Vrana shodhana
• Vrana ropana (healing)
• Jawaraghna (fever)
• Kasaghana (cough and cold)
• Virechnopaga (reduces purgation)
• Chakshushya (improves vision)
• Rochana (stimulates appetite)
• Arshohara (treats piles)
• Kusthahara (treats skin disease)

Uses

1. When haritaki powder is take with lavan (salt) it pacifies kapha dosha, when taken with sharkara it reduces pitta dosha, and when taken with ghrita it helps in reducing the Vata dosha, and when it is taken with gudda it helps in reducing the tridoshaja vikara.
2. In the inflamed areas, the paste application is very useful like in conjunctivitis, it is used as paste that is applied on the eyelashes, wound washing with haritaki decoction, and then applied its paste and its decoction is also used for mouth and throat infections.
3. This herb is also very beneficial in increasing the brain power and also helps to maintain the cerebro-vascular functions.
4. It is said to be the best herb in vata-vyadhis.
5. It can also be used in decreased vision or in other indriyadorbalya conditions.
6. This herb is also used in reduced digestive fire, to increase the ability of digestion chew the fruit, in constipation its powder is beneficial, in other abdominal disorders, boiled fruit can be taken, in tridosha condition.
7. Haemorrhoids, jaundice, liver or spleen related conditions.
8. Its boiled fruit is used in grahni disorders.
9. Fried fruit is given in tridoshaja vyadhi.
10. It can be beneficial used in pain related conditions.
11. Haritaki is one of the best herbs in sroto-shodhan.

Rituharitaki

Having haritaki powder along with various adjuvants in different seasons is called Ritu Haritaki.

• In the spring season or in vasant ritu - Haritaki is taken with honey to give relief from flu, strep throat, asthma, and other respiratory disorders.
• In summer swanson or greeshma ritu - Haritaki can be taken along with Gudda (jaggery) to treat dehydration, sunburn, food poisoning, and typhoid.
• In the rainy season or in varsha ritu - It is mixed along with Saindhava lavana (rock salt) to help in fever, cold, cough, and many other respiratory diseases.
• In sharad Ritu and in autumn season - It is taken along with sharkara common flu, cold, infections of throat, ears or many other health ailments.
• In hemant ritu or in the early winter season - It is very useful when taken with shunthi powder or dry ginger powder helps to cure various skin disorders, or respiratory disorders.
• In Shishir ritu or in winter season - It is taken with long pepper, to treat cold, flu, pneumonia and other respiratory disorders.

Health Benefits Of Haritaki

Haritaki is said to be a safer herb that can be taken on a daily basis in small doses like as it is used in triphala. According to various Acharyas, when haritaki is used as the rejuvenating supplement it is best to be taken in the morning and for digestion purposes it is best to be taken at night after dinner.

1. Diabetes - Haritaki is said to be an excellent hypoglycemic herb that plays a significant role in alleviating the blood sugar levels in the body. This wonderful herb helps to increase the insulin production by activating the Beta- pancreatic cells that helps the breakdown of starch into glucose. It helps to get relief from various diabetic symptoms like frequent urination, increased thirst, or loss of weight.
2. Cognitive Functions - Haritaki has miraculous brain-boosting properties, have powerful antioxidants, improves the memory health, calmness, acts as a brain tonic, or stimulates its functions, and helps in reducing the neuro-degenerating functions like parkinsonism, or other vata related disorders.
3. Boosts Sexual Capacity - In both males and females, has potent rasaynic therapeutic property, said to be the natural aphrodisiac or increases the libido and also very helpful in infertility patients.
4. Digestion - Improves gut health and is beneficial in various GI disorders like indigestion, constipation, bloating, stomach pain. It helps to eliminate the gastric issues, bloating, cramps and increases the metabolic rate that wonderfully affects the weight. By improving digestion it ultimately gives the brightened eyes, improves vision, glowing skin, decreases the blemishes etc.

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

Conclusion

This herb is a magical remedy that gives countless benefits in GIT disorders, gastritis, lung diseases, obesity, impotence, asthamatic conditions or hair and skin problems with its different anupanas according to different seasons. If you are feeling any type of these disorders then you must take a proper consultation from an Ayurvedic practitioner to avoid adverse effects and enjoy its various benefits.

Ayurvedic Solutions To Nasal Allergy

Abstract

Allergy represents a global health problem that occurs very commonly worldwidely, and significantly disturbs the social life of the patients. Some people generally suffer from seasonal allergies for several years that can be managed by effective formulations. This is an exaggerated response of the immune system for the foreign bodies such as pollen grains, specific foods, sand particles, animal danders, and cosmetic products that may show several types of allergies in any part of the body that may be nose, eyes, stomach, throat or skin. When our body comes in contact with these substances, it shows various symptoms that affect our immune system and generates antibodies. These antibodies generate the symptoms like sneezing, watering, irritation, itching, and nose congestion, these particular symptoms occur within a short period of time like 10-15 minutes may appear up to the 4-5 hours. In this article we are going to discuss the nasal allergies and management of these conditions.

Introduction

Among all types of allergies in the body, nasal allergies are the most common type of allergy, it is a very ordinary condition affecting 25% of the general population. This condition is referred to as Hay Fever, or Allergic rhinitis. This disease is generally caused by the tiny particles that flow into the air and cause obstruction in airways that further results in the sneezing, nose congestion, irritation, itching, in the nose or nasal path, mouth and may involve the face. This condition commonly affects children and adults. Male gender more commonly develops this condition as compared to females. Hereditary factors play an important role in causing nasal allergy. In the continuous presence of allergy, the exposure to indoor allergens like mites, moulds or insects and animal dender that remains throughout the year. This condition can be avoided by staying away from the allergy triggers. If these symptoms are not treated early then they can actually get worse with time.

Symptoms

1. Running Nose - Most common symptom of nasal allergies, the best way to get rid of these conditions are to stay away from the allergens and remove the cause. First of all try to know about the triggering factor of ongoing allergy. If it is triggered by pollen counts then it may generally persist for march or april months and conservative management for this condition is stay home or cover your nose when the count of pollen is high. If one is disturbed by the dangers of dogs and cats then he/she may wash their hands regularly and change their clothes after coming into contact with animals.
2. Sinus Pressure - An allergen is harmless until it causes any allergic infection. It produces mucus in the respiratory tract as a result of allergic substances and antibody reactions in the body. We have small cavities referred to as sinuses behind our forehead, cheeks and eyes. When mucus starts to build it starts to get accumulated in these sinuses it may exert pressure or pain.
3. This can be reduced effectively by swedana procedure in which we use a towel that is dipped in warm water and put it on the face or we may inhale steam for 2-3 times a day, take saline nasal drops, it will help you to reduce the pressure on sinus and liquify the mucus.
4. Sneezing - Sneezing is a very first immune response of the respiratory system to counter the entry of foreign particles. Some people have such severe sneezing episodes that interfere with their daily life. It may give some type of irritation in behaviour. Many allergens can be avoided by covering the nasal cavities with a mask and in some allergies they may not be helped by a mask.
5. Watering from Nose - As a result of any allergic substance nasal cavity secretes the mucus that runs in liquid form. Normally we swallow it without even knowing but if mucus becomes thicker than normal then we can feel that mucus behind our nose and can lead to irritation in the throat.
6. Itching and Irritation in Eyes - This is also a very common symptom, it may be annoying but don't cause any type of serious eye issue. Avoid triggering points that are the only best way to get relief from nasal allergies.
7. Asthma and Nasal Allergies - These both are the comorbidities suggesting the concept of one airway one disease. Some people who have long term allergies then have more chances to develop bronchial asthma in later stages of life.

Management

Treatment revolves around the avoidance of causes and improving the immune system that helps to control the diseases and its complications.

Ayurvedic Formulation

Some Ayurvedic formulation that can effectively work against these symptoms, such as Sitopaladi churna, trikatu churna, vyoshadi churna, and some of the immune modulators that can help by enhancing the immune power of the body like chyawanprash, triphala rasayana, mahalakshmi vilas ras etc.

Swedana Karma

This is a type of panchkarma procedure that helps to pacify the kapha dosha in chest region, first apply saindhav lavan and tila taila in chest region and then give nadi swedana, prastra swedana, sankar swedana with moist dravyas. It helps to liquify the mucus lodged in bronchioles and thus helps in vata anulomana.

Vaman Karma

Best kapha pacifying procedure is vamana that helps to expel out all the doshas specially that are lodged in the chest region.

We can use the kapha-vata shamak ahara that is hot in potency, soothing vata is very beneficial in nasal allergies.

Dhoomapana

This procedure is carried after the vamana procedure that liquifies the remaining kapha in the respiratory tract.

Some Kapha-Vata shamak herbs that are very helpful in reducing the symptoms of nasal allergies, these are anti-inflammatory and decongestants in nature, such as - pippali, ginger, bala, giloy, mulethi, amla and Vasa.

Nasya

This is a procedure of administering the medicated ghee or taila or juice in nostrils to reduce the chances of getting nasal allergies. Nasya can be given with anu taila, shadbindu taila, triphala ghrit, vasa ghrita, durva swarase etc.

Conclusion

Nasal allergies are most commonly triggered by pollens or foreign particles usually occur as seasonal allergies. This condition can be treated by various procedures so one who is suffering from this disease, may get connected with a good ayurvedic practitioner so that the patient can get better relief from this disease.

Osteoarthritis And Its Management In Ayurveda

Abstract

Osteoarthritis is a degenerative and progressive condition of bony cartilage. It usually comes in view most commonly in older ages but may occur at any age as due to certain risk factors. As per ayurveda it is correlated to sandhigata vata. In this study we are going to discuss all about osteoarthritis, its symptoms, causes, risk factors and treatment options. Also we are going to discuss the ayurvedic view of osteoarthritis and its ayurvedic management. Along with that in brief we will also discuss a joint support pack by planet Ayurveda for OA management.

Introduction

Osteoarthritis (OA) is the most common condition among all the disorders included under conditions related to synovial joints. The condition is characterized by degenerative and progressive changes in articular cartilages for long terms. It particularly occurs in weight bearing body joints. A joint is a junction where two bones meet together and the cartilage is a protective covering that aligns the bony ends. With osteoarthritis this cartilage got torn and caused the bony frictions (bones to rub together). This can cause stiffness, pain, and other symptoms. This condition may occur in any of the synovial joints but most commonly occur in these certain joints- fingers, hands, shoulders, hips and knees. It occurs most commonly in old age and can occur at any age. As per ayurveda it is known as sandhigata vata- the most common vata vyadhi with growing ages.

Symptoms Of Osteoarthritis

Symptoms of osteo-arthritis may develop slowly but worsen as the time passes. symptoms of osteoarthritis includes the below list:

• Pain: It is the first symptom that comes into view.
• Loss of flexibility: Full range of movement is affected.
• Stiffness: Mainly occurs after some time of inactivation.
• Tenderness: You may feel some tenderness when you touch or apply little bit of pressure over or near the affected joint area.
• Grating Sensation: On moving the particular affected joint you might feel a grating sensation with popping or crackling sound.
• Bone Spurs: Around the affected joint some bony hard lumps may form which are known as bone spur.
• Swelling: The soft tissues around the joints may cause swelling.

Causes Of Osteoarthritis

With osteoarthritis cartilage got torn and all the above symptoms come into view.. A joint is a junction where two bones meet together and the cartilage is a protective covering that aligns the bony ends. With osteoarthritis this cartilage got torn and caused the bony frictions (bones to rub together) and it affects the whole joint. And it may lead to bone changes and deterioration in the connective tissues which are holding the whole joint together. As such cause is not mentioned for osteoarthritis but there are some risk factors that are responsible for osteoarthritis.

Risk Factors For Osteoarthritis

• Older Age: Occurs most often as much as the age grows.
• Sex: Most commonly occurs in women but the fact is not clear why it occurs in women commonly.
• Obesity: As we studied earlier it is the weight bearing condition so as much as the weight of the patient the condition occurring possibility becomes higher with that.
• Repeated Stress on the Joint: If your day to day life causes repetitive stress over a specific joint then it may increase the risk of osteoarthritis in you.
• Joint Injuries: Joint injuries may lead to osteoarthritis such as from an accident while playing. Also some injuries that occur in earlier life may lead to this degenerative condition.
• Bone Deformities: Few people are born with defective cartilage or malformed joints so these are at the higher risk of having OA.

Ayurvedic View Of Osteoarthritis

As discussed earlier osteoarthritis is correlated to sandhigata vata that is one among the vata vyadhi. In this vyadhi only those joints are involved that are conjointing of bones only. It is found in the people with middle aged and old aged ones. In this disease there is deformity in bones. Here in this disease due to vata dosha vitiation there is shool (pain) in sandhi (joints), difficulty in akunchana (flexion) and prasarana (extension) kriya (movements).

Nidaan (Causes) of Sandhigata Vata

As it is vata vyadhi so the causes must be same as that of vata vyadhi. Let's discuss those causes.

• Dry food
• Cold food
• Less amount of food intake
• Intake of food over digestion
• Astringent, pungent and bitter food
• Excessive intercourse
• Fasting
• Day sleep
• Fear
• Anxiety
• Depression
• Excessive swimming in water
• Excessive weight lifting
• Excessive walking
• Night waking up
• Anger

So, all the above reasons are responsible for vitiating vata dosha and leading to vata vyadhi like sandhi gata vata.

Samprapti of Sandhigata Vata (Pathophysiology Of Osteoarthritis)

After following the above mentioned things in causes; vata dosha got vitiated and move toward joints and while resting there it can cause deformity of that particular sandhi (joint) along with sanayu (nerves) and kandara (tendons) and which in turn leads to sandhigata vata.

Samprapti Ghataka (Components of Manifestation of Disease)

• Dosha (Energy vitiated): vata dosha
• Dushya (with which dosha fuses): Rasa (fluid component), rakta (blood components), asthi (bones)
• Strotas (channels responsible for disease manifestation): Asthi vaha srotas (channels of transportation of material to bones) and majjavaha srotas (Channels carrying bone marrow tissues).
• Agni stithi (Energy of digestive fire): Irregular metabolism
• Vyadhi svabhav (condition of disease): Chronic disease
• Sadhya-asadhyata (prognosis of disease): Prolonged treatment

Lakshana (Symptoms) of Sandhigata Vata

According to acharya charaka (ch. Chi. 28/37) following symptoms are experienced by the patient:

• Heaviness in joints
• Inflammation in joints
• Difficulty in flexion and extension movement of joints
• Crepitation in joints while walking
• Deformity in joints along with nerves and tendons of the particular affected joints.

Ayurvedic Management Of Sandhigata Vata (Osteoarthritis)

Osteoarthritis is curable with proper ayurvedic treatment. First of all we are sharing chikitsa siddhant (line of treatment) for managing osteoarthritis. After that we will discuss some research based treatment options for osteoarthritis. Now lets firstly discuss chikitsa siddhant (line of treatment) for osteoarthritis. According to Bhavaprakash (Bh. Pr. m. 24/259) following line of treatment should be followed:

• Daha karma (Therapeutic heat burn): Daha Karma (therapeutic heat burn) gives instant relief in pain by pacifying local Vata Dosha without any side effects.
• Snehana karma (Oleation Therapy): This therapy involves application of medicated oils and ghee on the affected area which helps in pacifying vata dosha which in turn cures the condition of osteoarthritis.
• Upnaha karma (Application of medicated bandage): Here the medicated bandage prepared with vata pacifying herbs is tied up on the affected joint to alleviate the symptoms of osteoarthritis.

Now we are going to discuss different treatment options as per various researches done to manage osteoarthritis. Here we are going to discuss various treatment options that are compiled by respected Dr. Shrikant Gaur. So now let's take a review on all the 10 treatment researches.

1. A 32 week clinical evaluation: Here we are going through a 32 week placebo clinical evaluation by ayurvedic medications for OA of Knee joint. In this treatment a study has been done with 90 individuals by giving Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera), Boswellia (Boswellia serrata), Ginger (Gingiber officinale) and Turmeric (Curcuma longa). This study shows great efficacy in symptomatic management of OA of Knee joint.
2. An ayurvedic approach to OA treatment: This research is done by respected Dr. Sheila PateL (MD), medical director of chopra center. In this treatment research the herbs used are Boswellia (Boswellia serrata), turmeric (Curcuma longa), ashwagandha (Withania somnifera), Ginger (Gingiber officinale), shatavari (Asparagus racemosus), triphala- amalaki ( Emblica officinalis), haritaki (Terminalia chebula) and bibhitaki (Terminalia bellirica)) and guggul (Commiphora mukul ). So this study shows a decrease in symptoms like swelling by preventing the production of inflammatory chemicals in the body.
3. An indegenous approach to manage the osteoarthritis of knee joint: This is the observational study done in the clinical setting with 10 individuals by using herbs such as lakshadi guggul, kalka-patra bandhan (bandaging) and knee traction for one month. The specific results are found in severity of pain, tenderness and movements of knee joint like extension and flexion.
4. An open label clinical study on polyherbal formulation in osteoarthritis of knee joint: In this study research was done with 36 patients and the treatment given to them was in a capsule form which includes kunduru (Boswellia serrata) 130 mg, guggulu (Commiphora mukul) 100 mg, ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) 75 mg, nirgundi (Vitex negundo) 75mg, eranda (Ricinus communis) 60 mg, parijata (Nyctanthes arbortristis) 50 mg and shunthi (Zingiber officinale) 15 mg. These capsules were given at dosage of 2 capsules twice a day for a time duration of 180 days.
5. Ayurvedic medicine as an alternative to glucosamine and celecoxib in the symptomatic treatment of knee osteoarthritis: It has been done for a time duration of 24 weeks on 440 patients. The ayurvedic formulation used in this study was extracts of guduchi (Tinospora cordifolia), ginger (Zingiber officinale), amalaki (Emblica officinalis) and Kunduru (Boswellia serrata) along with 2 gm of glucosamine sulphate and 200 mg of celecoxib. The study evaluates significant reduction in knee pain along with promotive movements of knee joint.
6. Benefits of ayurvedic antioxidant supplements: Here ayurvedic herbs are used as antioxidant supplements like turmeric (Curcuma longa), avocado, Boswellia (Boswellia serrata). These herbs were given for 6 weeks of duration and help in pain relief and promoting functions of the knee joint.
7. Chondroprotective (Substances that delays progressive narrowing of joints) potential of fruit extracts of phyllanthus emblica: The study is done in vitro by using ayurvedic formulation of phyllanthus emblica; firstly aqueous extract of unprocessed amla (Phyllanthus emblica) fruit powder is made and then drying up of this extract is done. This formulation significantly reduced the symptoms of osteoarthritis by inhibiting the actions of collagenase type 2 and hyaluronidase (enzymes responsible for osteoarthritis).
8. Clinical study of single open label ayurvedic formulations in osteoarthritis: In this research an open label ayurvedic formulations were used. This study is done with 142 patients upto 12 weeks. Used ayurvedic formulations are vatari guggulu 500 mg three times a day with maharasnadi kwath in a dose of 20 ml with added equal amount of water twice a day along with that local application of narayan taila is done for two times a day and did massage for 15 minutes. So this study shows good evidence of vatari guggulu, maharasnadi kwath and narayana taila in osteoarthritis.
9. Study with a name of effectiveness of ayurvedic treatment approach in knee arthritis: This study is done with ashwagandha (Withania somnifera), and yograj guggul for a time period of 12 weeks with 151 patients. Results show reduction in the symptoms of osteoarthritis.

So these are some researches done with the patients of osteoarthritis with ayurvedic treatment. Through this study you may clearly see how beneficial an ayurvedic treatment for osteoarthritis is. We hope that you people who are suffering from OA must go for ayurvedic treatment. It will be very significant for OA symptoms.

Planet Ayurveda's Herbal Treatment For Osteoarthritis

Planet Ayurveda is a clinic that formulates their own herbal remedies on strict guidance of M.D. Ayurveda experts with great efficacy as these products are made up of 100% pure ingredients without any added preservatives. For osteoarthritis planet ayurveda provides you with a Joint support pack. It includes several herbal remedies like curcumin capsules, bone support capsules, joint aid plus capsules and coral calcium complex. All these remedies are very effective in curing osteoarthritis by pacifying vata dosha, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory effects which in succession reduce symptoms of osteoarthritis like swelling, pain, crepitations in joint, tenderness and all other symptoms mentioned above in this study. So kindly choose this pack for betterment of your health.

Conclusion

In this article we discussed all about osteoarthritis. Osteoarthritis is a condition that is progressive and degenerative in nature and most commonly occurs in older ages but may occur at any age due to risk factors like Obesity, Bone deformities, Joint injuries, Repeated stress on the joint and some other conditions. The main reason which leads to osteoarthritis is cartilage tear which causes friction in the bones of affected joints and causes symptoms like pain, loss of flexibility, stiffness, swelling, etc. Also here we give some review about some allopathic medications but these are having a lot of side effects on long term use. While reading you may come into review of its ayurvedic aspect and effective ayurvedic management of osteoarthritis. At last we explained some research based ayurvedic treatment compiled by Dr. Shrikant Gaur. at last for osteoarthritis planet ayurveda provides you joint support pack with effective herbal remedies that helps in alleviating your condition. And you may seek help from planet ayurveda anytime, we are always available to help you. Must visit our site www.PlanetAyurveda.com for more details about Joint Support Pack.