tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-47466055273519225332024-03-17T00:20:42.836+05:30Wellness AyurvedaPerfect health and wellness naturally.....Vaishali G Kamathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13368641312089476984noreply@blogger.comBlogger32125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4746605527351922533.post-12373084134577064282017-09-09T08:04:00.001+05:302017-10-11T20:31:25.518+05:30Rice - The ayurvedic perspective<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Ayurveda celebrates rice as the symbol of health, prosperity,auspiciousness and fertility and that's why,from newborns to newly-weds to new acquisitions, everything gets showered with rice.Rice is the first grain that you get introduced to.You get off an exclusive breast milk diet and you get on to rice either in the form of kanjee (rice soup) or really diluted rice itself.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Rice is suitable for people of all kinds of constitutions,doshas - vata, pitta and kapha.Rice has non-allergen, gluten-free and high on the protein digestibility score.That's exactly why big or small, man or woman, happy or angry, constipated or loosies, rich or poor, rice is everybody's comfort food.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">In Sanskrit there are myriad words for rice describing their many states of being, presentation, and consumption. One common word is अन्न, “anna”which can translate to mean rice that is ready to eat.Not only is rice important as food, it is also undeniably integral to indian religious ceremonies and our social framework.Present in most prayer rituals, served to God and devotees alike, more or less every regional food culture in India counts rice as important.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">In Ayurveda food is considered medicine.Foods are categorized according to their taste, their effect on the doshas,as well as their effect on the tissues.This is why when choosing foods it is important to understand ayurvedic properties of food.</span><br />
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<b><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"> Ayurvedic view of rice</span></b><br />
<ul style="text-align: left;">
<li><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Rice builds ojas.Of all the rice varities,Basmati is the most sattvic and aromatic. </span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Rice is nourishing and easy to digest giving more 'bang for the buck'.There are a few foods that Ayurveda has established as good for everyone(satmya),year round, and rice is number one on the list.No matter what your prakriti(constitution, as everyone is unique) and no matter what season, rice has a place in the diet.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Like moong(green gram),rice is sweet,cooling and light.This is a rare combination.Usually foods that are sweet and cooling are also heavy. So, like moong rice has the special quality of being nourishing for the tissues and immune system (due to its sweetness) but also light and easy to digest.It is also considered a Sattvic grain which means it helps to directly cultivate peace, clarity and contentment in the mind.</span></li>
</ul>
<b><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"> Rice has the following qualities according to ayurveda...</span></b><br />
<ul style="text-align: left;">
<li><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Rasa (Taste): Sweet</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Virya (Potency): Cooling</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Vipaka (Post digestive effective): Sweet</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Guna (Qualities): Unctuous, nourishing and Strength promoting. </span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Brown rice is light to digest and white polished rice is slightly heavy to digest.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Actions on the doshas: Balances Vata and Pitta and increases Kapha.But old rice does not increase Kapha.Hence aged rice can be considered as tridoshic which balances Vata, Pitta and Kapha</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Action on the mind: Sattvic</span></li>
</ul>
<b><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"> The Western viewpoint.</span></b><br />
<ul style="text-align: left;">
<li><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">White rice has a bad rap in the western countries.So much of the world depends on it as a core part of their diet,but somehow it’s been rumored as unhealthy with a stigma of little nutritional value and a cause of weight gain.Ayurveda believes otherwise.Ayurveda doesn’t judge rice simply on its fiber content and calorie count,as a Western perspective might, but takes into account who is eating it, when they’re eating it, and what happens to the rice throughout digestion.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Research in the West gives high scores to brown rice compared to white rice for its bran and fiber content.From a western perspective,rice has a neutral pH and a medium GI which makes it a better choice for people with diabetes.Red basmati rice is even better from a GI perspective.</span></li>
</ul>
<b><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"> Panchamahabhutas in rice</span></b><br />
<ul style="text-align: left;">
<li><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">According to Ayurveda, the Sweet taste (madhur rasa) is composed of the elements Water and Earth(Jala and Prithuvi).Rice is comprised of Water and Earth element.It is sweet inherently.Anything that is madhur is made for building, sustaining, and absorbing all the qualities that are present in Earth and Water as we see them in Nature.</span></li>
</ul>
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<b><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"> Effect of rice on tridoshas </span></b><br />
<ul style="text-align: left;">
<li><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">All of us have our own specific balance of Vata (movement, air/space),Pitta (transformation, fire/water) and Kapha (structure, earth/water), and when that balance is maintained, we experience health.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Some foods have more inherent heat and they add their Pitta heat to our body.Some foods are inherently cold and wet and increase our Kapha element.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">In Ayurvedic terms rice is said to be very balancing to the three Doshas, or elements, that underlie our body and our health – Vata, Pitta and Kapha.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Rice is lighter than many other grains, so can be eaten by Kapha; it’s cooling, sweet and moist nature work for Pitta; and sweet moist attributes balance Vata. </span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">It is rare to find a food that balances all three Doshas and this is one reason rice is so highly valued.(If eaten in excess it will increase Kapha Dosha though).</span></li>
</ul>
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<b><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"> Should anyone avoid eating rice?</span></b><br />
<ul style="text-align: left;">
<li><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">No. Anyone and everyone can and should eat rice.You would only avoid it if you were put on a very specific Ama-reducing fast by your Ayurvedic Practitioner and were instructed to avoid all grains (but this would usually only be for 3-10 days at a time).If you have diabetes you may be advised to eat more of the red variety, along with other low GI grains.</span></li>
</ul>
<b><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"> Dry roasting rice</span></b><br />
<ul style="text-align: left;">
<li><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">With respect to the preparation of rice, the Ayurvedic texts explain that dry roasting (i.e. drying over heat)rice can make them “light” to digest and hence beneficial when the digestive fire is low. </span></li>
</ul>
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><b> </b><b>Pre-soaking Rice </b></span><br />
<ul style="text-align: left;">
<li><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Pre-soaking rice is a fairly common practice, which can save fuel by decreasing cooking time(the grains begin the process of expanding as they absorb water during soaking).</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Opinions vary on the effects on taste,texture and nutritive value. If the same water used for soaking is used for cooking rice then this would result in preventing the loss of water-soluble nutrients.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Soaking the rice for at least 1 hour prior to cooking them will make it lighter for digestion as well as cooks rice in very less time and consumes less power.</span></li>
</ul>
<b><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"> Older the better </span></b><br />
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<ul style="text-align: left;">
<li><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">According to Ayurveda, old rice has proved to be a great healing food and hence it is recommended to every human being. New rice(Freshly harvested rice) is hard to digest,whereas 1-year-old rice(1 yr maturity after harvesting)is lighter and two-year old rice is even more excellent in quality.Ayurveda texts explain that old rice is wholesome in diabetes and obesity too.Ayurveda recommends storage of rice in moist free airtight containers.Now-a-days we are eating newer and newer rice which is becoming harder and harder for us to digest thus leading to health issues.</span></li>
</ul>
<b><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"> Cooking rice </span></b><br />
<ul style="text-align: left;">
<li><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Rice is normally prepared by boiling or steaming(or some combination of these) and it absorbs water during this process.Long-grain rice tends to remain separate or ‘fluffy’ after cooking while short and medium grain rice will tend to stick together more. After standard boiling or steaming,rice can be eaten directly with side dishes, added to soup, combined with other ingredients in a wok to make ‘fried rice’, used to stuff vegetables or vine leaves, or used for forming various types of sushi.I personally use filteration method to cook rice.My goan friend Neelam dutta has included all the goan rice cooking methods in detail in her post,you can <a href="https://m.facebook.com/story.php?story_fbid=1925551850994784&substory_index=0&id=1641552086061430" target="_blank">click here</a> for the link.</span></li>
</ul>
<b><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"> Boiling in excess water/Filteration method </span></b><br />
<ul style="text-align: left;">
<li><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Rice can be boiled in excess water.When the rice is almost fully cooked, the excess water is drained off.This procedure has lot of signifacance when we think of health.Firstly,the most soluble carbohydrates are removed from the rice, so sugar loading is decreased and thus cause less impact on blood glucose levels. Reduction of easily available carbohydrates decreases tendencies to constipation, and improves elimination.This single procedure therefore has health promoting and preventative value for many conditions.Decrease in sugar loading will reduce tendencies to obesity, insulin resistance, metabolic syndrome, and type 2 Diabetes. The reduced constipation will tend to improve long term colon health, and all conditions involving ama(toxic substances)</span></li>
</ul>
<b><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"> Absorption method to cook rice</span></b><br />
<ul style="text-align: left;">
<li><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">In a covered pot/Pressure cooker/Rice cooker,the right amount of water can be measured and added to the raw rice before cooking and this water will be completely absorbed into the rice. The recommended ratio of raw rice to water varies from about 1:1.5 (firmer result) to about 1:2 (softer result), depending on preference.After coming to the boil, the heat should be reduced to simmering until the rice is cooked (and all water absorbed).Microwave can also be used to cook rice in absorbtion method.</span></li>
</ul>
<b><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"> Steaming rice</span></b><br />
<ul style="text-align: left;">
<li><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">This is similar to the absorption method, but after simmering for 8-10 minutes, transfer the rice to a basket or steamer over a steaming pan, cover and continue cooking for 10 minutes.</span></li>
</ul>
<b><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"> Stir-frying in oil or fat before boiling</span></b><br />
<ul style="text-align: left;">
<li><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">This method is used when making dishes like risotto, paella, saffron rice, spanish/mexican rice, pilaf or biryani.Generally for these dishes, the raw rice is stir-fried with selected spices and/or other ingredients for the dish (meat, seafood, vegetables), before adding the right amount of water and covering the pot.</span></li>
</ul>
<b><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"> Germinated brown rice</span></b><br />
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<ul style="text-align: left;">
<li><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Germinated brown rice (GBR) is unpolished brown rice that has been allowed to germinate to improve the flavor and texture, and to increase levels of nutrients such as γ-aminobutyric acid (GABA). It has been found that germinated grains in general have nutritional advantages. The rice is used in Japanese and Korean cuisine.</span></li>
</ul>
<b><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"> Compressed rice</span></b><br />
<ul style="text-align: left;">
<li><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">This is another method that involves boiling or steaming rice.Compressed rice is popular in Indonesia(known as ketupat or lontong)and Malaysia (nasi himpit). Traditionally, the raw or partially cooked rice is placed inside a woven or rolled coconut leaf or banana leaf pouch or cylinder, and then boiled or steamed. When cooked, the rice will have formed a solid mass,having been compressed by the pouch containing it.While still hot or after cooling, it is then cut open, sliced and served with side dishes, sauces and soups.Compressed rice packets can also be cooked with vegetable or meat fillings as a snack. </span></li>
</ul>
<b><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"> Do I need to add salt to rice?</span></b><br />
<ul style="text-align: left;">
<li><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">If the rice will be served with curry/ flavoured dish/dal,don’t add salt as the rice is designed to provide a bland contrast.Salt is added to rice in the preparations like Pulao, Biryani etc.</span></li>
</ul>
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<b><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"> Washing Rice before cooking and Tandulodaka(Rice washed water)</span></b><br />
<ul style="text-align: left;">
<li><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Rice is exposed to dust and other contaminants during storage hence washing rice is a must before cooking it.Rinsing rice multiple times,results in the loss of water-soluble nutrients,including starch, protein, vitamins, minerals so i would recommend to wash rice just once or twice before cooking. </span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">In ayurveda Rice wash water(Tandulodaka)is also mentioned as anupana(after drink) with medicine in many disorders like bleeding hemorrhoids,leucorrhoea, etc.For preparing tandulodaka(rice washed water)coarse powder of one part of rice is soaked in 8 parts of water,macerated well for five minutes and then filtered.</span></li>
</ul>
<b><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"> Parboiling of rice </span></b><br />
<ul style="text-align: left;">
<li><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Parboiling rough rice before milling, as is common in India and Bangladesh, allows a portion of the vitamins and minerals in the bran to permeate the endosperm and be retained in the polished rice.This treatment also lowers protein loss during milling and increases whole-grain recovery.</span></li>
</ul>
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><b> Highly nourishing yet easy to digest</b></span><br />
<ul style="text-align: left;">
<li><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">There is often a trade off between nourishment and digestibility.Usually, the most nourishing foods, such as meat and dairy products,demand a lot of digestive power to extract their nutrients.Rice is one of those rare foods as it is both highly nourishing and easy to digest.In other words, from the point of view of our digestive tract, it offers more calories with less effort.Ayurveda says that rice is good for building our body tissue and is a rich source of Prana, or life-force.It is especially valuable when you are recovering from an illness.</span></li>
</ul>
<b><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"> White rice v/s Brown rice</span></b><br />
<ul style="text-align: left;">
<li><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Mostly we think of rice as either white rice or brown rice.What are the differences between them?In general, brown rice contains the external bran, or husk.This external layer is sweet and rich in oil, fiber, and minerals.When the bran is removed through milling the rice is white.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Inevitably white rice has less fiber than brown, but it still has nutritional value and provides protein and energy.And since its outer shell has been removed, it is much easier to digest.For this reason white rice is recommended when digestive ability is low.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">According to Ayurveda this naturally occurs in the summer and warm months. At this time of year our agni(digestive fire)is at its weakest.We should adjust our diets accordingly,choosing lighter foods that are easy to digest.This makes white rice a better choice than brown in the summer.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Since brown rice is somewhat heavy to digest it is best consumed in the cooler and winter months.This is when agni is at its strongest.The digestive system can handle heavier foods like brown rice better than it can in summer.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Ayurveda takes into account not only the season but also the individual.For those who always have very good digestion and a strong agni, brown rice is generally a good choice.For those with more sensitive digestion and weaker agni,or in the case of illness,white rice is the way to go.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">In terms of the dosha, white rice is often recommended for those who struggle with issues of Air and Space(Vata).This is because external bran of brown rice, though full of fiber and more whole can be difficult to breakdown for those who have irregular digestion.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Brown rice can take up to 45 minutes to cook however,white rice can be completely cooked in 15 minutes.This is important because rice that is eaten without completely steaming,or is removed from the refrigerator without warming, can add to the complaints of Vata-gas, bloating, and constipation to name a few.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">If you’re one of those people who can practically digest rocks(has very good digestion)then yeah,take advantage of brown rice’s nutritive value year round.If digestion is a little slower,go with white.</span></li>
</ul>
<b><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"> Different forms of rice</span></b><br />
<ul style="text-align: left;">
<li><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Rice roasted directly in fire (Dana/Bhuja) is consumed with salt or spices.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Rice flour (Pisht) Rice flour is made from ground raw rice.It can be used as a gluten-free alternative to wheat flour. Rice flour is commonly used in countries where rice is the staple food to make other food products, including certain types of bread, cakes, biscuits, pancakes and dumplings.It is also used to thicken soups and sauces and to make batter for deep frying crispy snacks(such as for Japanese tempura or fried bananas).Rice noodles and extruded round noodles are made from wet-milled rice flour.These are eaten with side dishes or in soups. Glutinous rice flour is commonly used to make many types of sweet and savoury cakes in Asia, including Japanese mochi and Indonesian layered rice cakes (kue lapis). </span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Rice pop (Murmure/Lava/Khil) is used to make namkin or used directly for consumption.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Pressed/Flattened rice (Poha) is used for making Indian breakfast like poha.</span></li>
</ul>
<b><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"> External use of rice in panchakarma </span></b><br />
<ul style="text-align: left;">
<li><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">This particular treatment is a special gift from Ayurveda to the ailing world and it is called Shashtika Shali Pinda Sweda in Sanskrit and Njavarakizhi in Kerala ayurvedic practice.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Process involves fomentation of the body with a bolus of cooked rice.Njavara is a particular kind of rice known for its nutritional and therapeutic value.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Rice is cooked with milk and a herbal decoction.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Four boluses are made of this cooked rice and tied up in linen bags.It is a procedure by which the whole body or any specific part thereof is made to perspire by the Njavarakizhi application.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Treatment (massage) is started by application of oil to the body and a piece of cloth is tied around the head. </span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">The two attendents on each side of the patient massage by the prepared boluses and the process will be continued in seven standard postures such as sitting,lying (supine or prone position) etc. </span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">The movement of the hands during both fomentation and massage should always be downwards.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">After the massage, all the linen bags are opened out and remaining pudding is taken and applied to the body of the patient and rubbed by the hands. </span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">After 5 minutes, the paste is wiped off with palm leaf scrapers. Patient is given bath after some time.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">The course of treatment is for about 60 to 75 minutes per day for a period of 7 to 21 days.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">The fomentation and soothing effect of this Potli is effective in various neuro-degenerative conditions,weakness, muscle wasting, low back or neck pain, Sciatica, Removes joint stiffness due to vata,Prevents premature ageing, Rejuvenates skin,Chronic rheumatism,Limb emaciation.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Basically this therapy is used to improve muscle strength, rejuvenate and re-energize body.This treatment also provides strength and nutrition to the body tissues, especially bones, muscles and other soft tissues.</span></li>
</ul>
<b><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"> Some Interesting Facts about rice</span></b><br />
<ul style="text-align: left;">
<li><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Glycaemic index, or GI, is the measure of how quickly your blood glucose level (blood sugar) rises after eating a particular food.If you have a diet that has a high GI level, you more are at risk of diabetes, heart disease and a variety of other diseases.Rice is normally consumed with dal and some ghee.Rice has mediun GI index and by eating it with daal/dahi we bring its GI index further down and if we take some ghee over this daal rice then the GI INDEX is brought down further.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Khichadi made of old rice and mung is beneficial to a person suffering from fever or stomach disorder.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Rice gruel mixed with ghee or butter is advised throughout pregnancy. As rice, ghee and butter are cooling and anabolic, they nourish the mother to be as well as help in proper growth of the fetus.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Rice has their unique nutritional value.It includes high in minerals such as calcium and iron, vitamins, such as niacin, vitamin D, thiamine and riboflavin and a good source of fiber and therefore, improves digestion.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Old rice is beneficial in diabetes and obesity.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">It promotes growth of pro-biotic bacteria, eases bowel movement and rids you of bloating.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Rice contains very low amount of saturated fats,sodium and fat and it's free of cholesterol making it heart healthy food.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">It prevents premature wrinkling.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">It has essential amino acids like methionine, which when consumed with dal, for example, completes the amino acid profile of the meal. (They are limiting factors of each other).</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Has inositol, which has fat burning, anti-anxiety, and irritability reducing properties.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">It allows for better assimilation of Vitamin D and calcium.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">More than half the world's population virtually lives on rice.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">In Japan,the words for rice and meal are the same.An average Japanese eats 200 pounds of rice a year. Needless to add, Japan has one of the highest longevity rates in the world.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Rice crop takes up a whopping 150 million hectares of land worldwide.</span></li>
</ul>
<b><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"> Pathya kalpana(Ayurvedic dietetics)</span></b><br />
<ul style="text-align: left;">
<li><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Ayurveda prescribes specific diet patterns in the diseased conditions which are known as Pathya kalpana.According to ayurveda, derangement of the digestive power(Agni) occurs in many diseases which is the prime reason for the formation of vitiated dosha,Ama (toxic substances) and malformation of Dhatus(body tissues).</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">The word Pathya derives its origin from root word Patha which literally means a way or channel.Pathya not only advocates intake of wholesome food and fasten the process of recovery from the diseased state but it mainly helps to regain the strength of agni(digestive power).</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Some pathya kalpana like manda, peya, vilepi, yavagu etc are explained in ayurveda.Table below explains in short about pathya kalpana, their preparation method and uses in therapeutic diet.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Various rice preparation given below are also suitable for weaning babies who are being introduced to foods apart from mother’s milk.</span></li>
</ul>
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><b> Manda Kalpana</b></span><br />
<div>
<div>
<ul style="text-align: left;">
<li><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Manda means rice water which is the clear supernatant watery portion in which rice is boiled. This Kalpana is prepared by using rice and water in 1:14 proportion.The rice is cooked in said proportion of water and then only water content of the prepared formulation is collected as Manda(watery portion of rice gruel).It should be served with a pinch of table salt.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Properties: Laghu (light in digestion),Sheeta( cold)</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Actions: Deepana (increase in appetite),Pachana (increase in digestive capacity),Grahi( reduces water cotent in feaces),Vatanulomaka(maintains normal functioning of vata humour),Kaphaghna( pacify kapha humour).</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Indications: Jwara(Fever),Atisara(Diarrhoea),Trishna(Excessive Thirst).</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">The same procedure can be used to prepare laja(puffed rice)manda.</span></li>
</ul>
<ul style="text-align: left;">
<li style="display: inline !important;"><b><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Peya Kalpana</span></b></li>
</ul>
</div>
<div>
<ul style="text-align: left;">
<li><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">This Kalpana is prepared by using rice and water in 1:14 proportion.The rice is cooked in said proportion of water and then maximum watery content of the prepared formulation is collected with few grains of cooked rice.This is knownas Peya(rice gruel).It can be served with little amount of table salt and pinch of pepper powder</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Properties: Laghu(light in digestion)</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Actions: Deepana,Pachana,Vatanulomaka,Dhatupushtikara(nourishing)</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Indications:Jwara(fever),Atisara(Diarrhoea),Shwasa (asthma) Kasa(cough)Kaphodara(Ascites),Trushna(excessive thirst)</span></li>
</ul>
</div>
<div>
<b><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"> Yavagu kalpana</span></b></div>
<div>
<ul style="text-align: left;">
<li><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Yavagu is a type of gruel prepared with 6 times water to nearly thick or semisolid consistency. Only solid rice part is taken.You can add ¼ tea spoon of grated ginger, pinch of pepper powder and required quantity of table salt and churn it well before serving.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Properties -Laghu(Light in digestion,Grahi(reduces water cotent in feaces),Bastishodhani(Capable Of Removing Provoked Humors In Basti)</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Indications: Before Siravedha(blood letting),Garbhini(pregnancy),Unmaada (schizophrenia),Mandagni(loss of appetite),Trushna(excessive thrist)</span></li>
</ul>
</div>
<div>
<b><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"> Vilepi kalpana</span></b></div>
<div>
<ul style="text-align: left;">
<li><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">This is thick rice gruel prepared by cooking rice with 4 times of water.Maximum solid portion with little liquid is taken. Add required amount of table salt, a little fresh ginger, turmeric, cumin seeds, coriander, fennel,pepper and small amount of ghee can be added for taste and digestion.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Properties: Madhur (sweet),Laghu (light in digestion).</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Action:Deepana,Rochaka (Enhances taste),Grahi(reduces water content in feaces),Vrushya(Aprodiasiac).</span></li>
</ul>
</div>
<div>
<b><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"> Odana kalpana </span></b></div>
<div>
<ul style="text-align: left;">
<li><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">In this preparation cooked rice and has the consistency of normal, soft, cooked rice.It is made with 2 parts of water to 1 part of rice.It should be served with some gravy vegetable curries for providing fast and instant energy.</span></li>
</ul>
</div>
<div>
<b><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"> Conclusion</span></b></div>
</div>
<ul style="text-align: left;">
<li><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">From birth to death, rice shadows us in every big and small moment of our life and then suddenly rice becomes our enemy and by following some modern trends we try to eliminate it from our diet chart,it is actually the biggest mistake which we do.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">We should rather value everything (like rice), that is easily available in local market, instead of chasing after food items, which is difficult to avail and expensive to afford.Eat your rice the way you like it,as you want and eat it in quantities which will leave you feeling light and energetic, and enjoy the wonders it will have on your body.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Rice is the superfood and we all can have it all round the year,but we must not eat it in too much quantity,we must trust our tongue and stomach to guide us.</span>I would like to conclude my post by very good advise from famous nutritionist <span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Rutuja diwekar madam that as far as quantities are concerned,if a human being pays attention to what he/she is eating and doesn’t rush through his/her meal,he/she will know exactly where to stop eating.We are born with the ability to self-terminate eating;we do not need a dietitian or a doctor to tell us where to stop.Some things are worth doing yourself; this is one such thing.</span></li>
</ul>
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"> </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"> Stay healthy !</span><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><br /></span>
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Vaishali G Kamathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13368641312089476984noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4746605527351922533.post-25757445841522917132017-08-04T00:28:00.000+05:302017-08-04T00:50:28.565+05:30Use kajal daily let your healthy eyes speak...<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<ul>
<li style="text-align: left;">Our eyes are the most important sense organs we have in relating to the world around us.They are the connection between outer and inner worlds.In fact it isaid that our eyes are the mirror to our soul.</li>
<li style="text-align: left;">We must protect and take loving care of these delicate organs.So to protect it one should apply anjana(Collyrium/kajal) everyday.It's a traditional ayurvedic formulation for healthy eyes.It is highly effective in maintaining the health and shine of the eyes.Kohl or Kajal is one of the first make up product that most girls learn to use.</li>
<li style="text-align: left;">In a world more and more polluted by gas emissions,also by pollen, by dust, by the lack of humidity in some work or living places, and more and more screens to look at, Kajal appears to be a wonderful ally to your eyes.It is very useful in young children as well.For thousands of years women have been using kajals as a natural eye care cosmetics.</li>
<li style="text-align: left;">Eye kohl is one of the oldest fashion accessories found in every woman’s vanity.It is ethnic and followed by every tradition.When you put on a kajal,you bid for a new smoky look, to be in the spotlight.Your dazzling eyes build up a confidence in you to fight against pickles of your life.Beyond shadow of any doubt Kohl serves your eyes with a glamorous look.Apart from dazzling eyelooks,today we will see neumerous health benefits of kajal.</li>
</ul>
<br />
<div>
<ul style="text-align: left;">
</ul>
<span style="font-weight: normal;"><b> </b></span><b>Synonyms of Kohl/collyrium</b><br />
<ul style="text-align: left;">
<li><span style="font-weight: normal;">Kohl is known by various names in South Asian languages, like surma in Punjabi and Urdu, kajal in Hindi, Bengali and Gujrati, anjana in Sanskrit, kajalh in Marathi, kanmashi in Malyalam, kaadige in Kannada, kaatuka in Telugu and kan mai in Tamil.</span></li>
</ul>
<b> </b><br />
<b> History and cultural importance of kajal</b><br />
<div>
<ul style="text-align: left;">
<li><span style="font-weight: normal;">Kohl is an ancient eye cosmetic.It is widely used in South asia, the Middle east, the Mediterranian, Eastern europe, North africa, the Horn of africa, and parts of West africa as eyeliner to contour and darken the eyelids and as mascara for the eyelashes.It is worn mostly by women, but also by some men and children.Kohl has also been used in India as a cosmetic for a long time. In addition, mothers would apply kohl to their infant'seyes soon after birth.Some did this to strengthen the child's eyes,and others believed it could prevent the child from being cursed by the evil eye.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-weight: normal;">Egyptian and africa culture-Kohl was originally used as protection against eye ailments.There was also a belief that darkening around the eyes would protect one from the harsh rays of the sun.Women have long applied kohl for cosmetic purposes, as well as to cleanse the eyes, lengthen eyelashes, and to protect the eyes from the sun's rays.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-weight: normal;">In India, it is used by women as a type of eyeliner that is put around the edge of the eyes.In many parts of India,women of the household prepare the kajal.Local tradition considers it to be a very good coolant for the eyes and believes that it protects the vision.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-weight: normal;">In Punjabi culture, surma is a traditional ceremonial dye, which predominantly men of the Punjab wear around their eyes on special social or religious occasions.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-weight: normal;">Some women also add a dot of kajal on the left side of the foreheads or on the waterline of the eye of women and children to ward off "buri nazar".Buri nazar literally means 'bad glance' and is comparable to the 'evil eye',although it can be interpreted as ill-wishes of people or even lustful eyes,in the sense of men ogling women.It signifies that the person is not perfect, with them having 'black mark',and hence, people wouldn't be jealous of their beauty.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-weight: normal;">In the centuries-old Indian Bharatnatayam dances,the dancers apply heavy kohl to their eyes so as to draw attention to their eye gestures and movement.The kohl is then applied to eyebrows and eyelids to add further enhancement to the dancers.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-weight: normal;">The Prophet Mohammed used kohl and recommended others to use it because he believed that it was beneficial for the eyes and it is used by Muslim men today during ramadan as a sign of devotion.</span></li>
</ul>
<span style="font-weight: normal;"> </span><br />
<span style="font-weight: normal;"><b> Anjana in ayurveda</b></span><br />
<ul style="text-align: left;">
<li><span style="font-weight: normal;">The preparation and benefits of Kajal are written in the ancient Ayurvedic treaties dating back to more than 5000 years ago.It is used as a beauty treatment by indian women since that time.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-weight: normal;">Anjana in simple words means a thick honey like consistency medicinal substance to be applied in the eyes for maintaining their health and prevent diseases.There are two types of it, first is called as "Souviranajana"i.e. it should be put daily.It’s our own lovely kajal or Surma that we apply every day. </span></li>
<li><span style="font-weight: normal;">Second type of Anjana is the Rasanjana i.e. prepared with honey, berberis aristata and goat’s milk.This is a little strong type and is put in the eyes only during night time.This is available in the ayurvedic pharmacy or one can try putting one drop of pure honey in the eyes at night.This stings the eyes a bit and eyes start watering.Due to this any redness, impurities or foreign bodies are washed away and in just few minutes one realizes the eyes are cleaned up.Also it imparts good sound sleep.This Anjana is told to be used only for 5 to 8 nights continuously every month and not to be exceeded above that.Only that one should not see bright light or watch tv, computers after this is done. So one should put it just before going to sleep.</span></li>
</ul>
<span style="font-weight: normal;"> </span><br />
<span style="font-weight: normal;"><b> Types of anjan in ayurveda </b></span><br />
<ul style="text-align: left;">
<li><span style="font-weight: normal;">According to charaka -Sauviranjana and rasanjana</span></li>
<li><span style="font-weight: normal;">According to susrutha-Prasadana,lekhana,ropana</span></li>
<li><span style="font-weight: normal;">Depending on the form of medicine -Gutikanjana, Rasanjana, Churnanjana</span></li>
<li><span style="font-weight: normal;">Depending on action-Mridu and tikshna</span></li>
<li><span style="font-weight: normal;">(We need not go in detail of every type of anjana as they are to be practiced under guidance of ayurvedic physician,in this post we will only focus on souviranjan which is the kajal/kohl which we put daily.)</span></li>
</ul>
<span style="font-weight: normal;"> </span><br />
<span style="font-weight: normal;"><b> Doshas present in our eyes</b></span><br />
<ul style="text-align: left;">
<li><span style="font-weight: normal;">Ayurveda explains that Pitta dosha,the element of fire and light governs our eyes.Specifically, the sub-dosha “Alochaka Pitta”lives in the eyes.Alochaka pitta absorbs images and colors, allowing us to take in and digest all of the visual impressions coming to us.When Alochaka pitta is in balance,eyes are healthy, bright, clear, shiny, luminous, and we enjoy sharp vision.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-weight: normal;">Tarpaka Kapha is responsible for keeping the eyes lubricated, moist and cool. </span></li>
<li><span style="font-weight: normal;">Prana Vata is responsible for the life force that runs throughout the head region, for movement of the eyes, blinking, and sensory perception.</span></li>
</ul>
<span style="font-weight: normal;"> </span><br />
<div>
<span style="font-weight: normal;"><b> Uses of putting kajal/kohl daily</b></span><br />
<ul style="text-align: left;">
<li>Collyrium helps remove dirt and dust, and relieves watering and burning of eyes due to strain.</li>
<li><span style="font-weight: normal;">While applying kajal, the underside of the eyeballs gets a massage, which improves the blood circulation of eyes and hence, improves eye sight.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-weight: normal;">Kajal protects the eyes from sharp rays of sun.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-weight: normal;">It helps to make the little red vessels in the eyes disappear so that they remain white. </span></li>
<li><span style="font-weight: normal;">It helps to protect from bad luck/evil eye (particularly little kids)</span></li>
<li><span style="font-weight: normal;">The organic and natural soot we use in form of kajal has refreshing,astringents and disinfectant properties.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-weight: normal;">It moisturises the eyes and evacuate tear fluid faster.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-weight: normal;">Regular use of kajal also helps to avoid cataract to some extent.</span></li>
</ul>
<span style="font-weight: normal;"><b> </b></span><br />
<span style="font-weight: normal;"><b> Need for making our own homemade kajal</b></span><br />
<ul style="text-align: left;">
<li><span style="font-weight: normal;">Kajal/kohl/surma had been used for centuries in most South Asian and Arab nations, multi-tasking as an eye cosmetic and evil eye-fighter.But its reputation has suffered recently,when investigations had revealed that the products contain dangerously high levels of lead sulphate which can create several problems.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-weight: normal;">The commercial production of kajal today,on a large scale,has bought its own share of problems.Some of the most commonly found impurities in kajal are charcoal which is added for its dark colour, and silver nitrate,which gives the kajal its lustrous glow.If the silver nitrate content in the kajal is more than two per cent, it can cause irritation, burning and redness of the eyes.</span></li>
<li>Where does that leave our homegrown kajal? The process by which it has been traditionally made is painstaking and as delicate as the body part to which it is applied.Kajal has been used for hundreds of years by us is proof enough that it does not have harmful effects on the eyes,so the best decision would be to make kajal at home as grandmother used to make/or depend on reliable organic brands.</li>
</ul>
<span style="font-weight: normal;"> </span><br />
<span style="font-weight: normal;"><b> Recipe for making kajal</b></span><br />
<ul style="text-align: left;">
<li><span style="font-weight: normal;">Copper panel or plate with up edges</span></li>
<li><span style="font-weight: normal;">Silver box/airtight clean box</span></li>
<li><span style="font-weight: normal;">Pure castor oil</span></li>
<li><span style="font-weight: normal;">Pure cotton filaments </span></li>
<li><span style="font-weight: normal;">Some ghee</span></li>
<li><span style="font-weight: normal;">1 spoon</span></li>
<li><span style="font-weight: normal;">A bronze/earthen oil lamp</span></li>
<li><span style="font-weight: normal;">Camphor</span></li>
<li><span style="font-weight: normal;">(Another version of home-made ayurvedic kajal is made using almond oil. Almonds have natural oils that are very beneficial for the eye and is also known to improve eyesight.)</span></li>
</ul>
<span style="font-weight: normal;"> </span><br />
<span style="font-weight: normal;"> <b>Procedure</b></span><span style="font-weight: normal;"> </span><br />
<ul style="text-align: left;">
<li><span style="font-weight: normal;">Fill the Bronze/Earthen oil lamp with approximately 100 ml of castor oil,put a wick and light the lamp.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-weight: normal;">Place the copper plate on top of the lamp in such a position that the flame touches the plate.Fix the position of the plate with the help of a stand.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-weight: normal;">Place this lamp in a place with no wind blowing, let the lamp burn over night,or as long as the oil burns.This will approximately take 8-10 hours.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-weight: normal;">When the oil is burnt, you will see a thick powdery black residue on the copper plate.This is the base of your kajal.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-weight: normal;">Gather as much soot as possible and put it in the container.Take a small amount ghee and mix it into the collected soot.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-weight: normal;">Add a few small beads of camphor and mix well for minute or two.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-weight: normal;">Make the kohl as consistent as you want it. Ideally, it should have the consistency of eatable butter.Too thin and your kohl will smudge, too thick and it will be in lumps.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-weight: normal;">Kohl is ready to use.Put the kohl in an airtight box/silver box.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-weight: normal;">Apply on your eyes once in a day.</span></li>
</ul>
<span style="font-weight: normal;"> </span><br />
<span style="font-weight: normal;"><b> Benefits of ingredients used</b></span><br />
<ul style="text-align: left;">
<li><span style="font-weight: normal;">Rich in Vitamin E-Pure castor oil is the richest form of vitamin E.It helps heal the eyes,makes your eye lashes thick and blacker and known to relieve stress.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-weight: normal;">Anti-Bacterial-Copper is well-known for its healing properties and is considered a purifier.You will get a very minute amount of copper in the kohl because of the heated copper plate where your soot gets collected.Copper helps keep your eyes free from external and makeup infections.It also helps in lens and strengthening eye muscle and relaxing.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-weight: normal;">Relaxes Irritated Eyes-Bronze and silver are known for their regenerating properties. They also help in healing allergies, relaxing irritated and swollen blood vessels because of over rubbing.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-weight: normal;">Provides Coolness To Eyes-Camphor helps for providing coolness and gives stress relief.It helps subside minor eruptions in the eyes.Camphor comes from the resin of the camphor tree, it has refreshing, astringents and disinfectant properties.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-weight: normal;">Keeps Dark Circles Away-Ghee keeps your dark circles at bay by relaxing them if you are an electronic person who uses laptops, computers, and phones constantly.It cleans your eye of salt deposits from tears.Also removes your minute makeup residue trapped under the upper and lower eye lids.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-weight: normal;">Cotton being the most natural fibre available anywhere in the world.</span></li>
</ul>
<b> Storage of kajal </b><br />
<ul style="text-align: left;">
<li><span style="font-weight: normal;">The container is very often not sterile and can cause eye infections like conjunctivitis and corneal ulcers.So keeping the kajal/surma stick well covered, away from dust and other dirt, is very important.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-weight: normal;">kajal once prepared at home easily lasts for 8 to 11 months if used only by one person and one time application.It doesn’t expire but it should not be kept near water.Homemade kajals usually have a good shelf life even though no preservatives are used.</span></li>
</ul>
<span style="font-weight: normal;"> </span><br />
<span style="font-weight: normal;"><b> Application of kajal</b></span><br />
<ul style="text-align: left;">
<li><span style="font-weight: normal;">Wash your face and hands.Take very little kajal/kohl on your(right hand) finger,widen the eyes with left hand and apply collyrium using the right hand.Always it should be applied from inner canthus to outer canthus. </span></li>
<li><span style="font-weight: normal;">The other way to apply kajal is by using shalaka(applicator), start off by cleaning the probe(applicator) with the help of a clean dry cloth.Dip the probe into the bottle and twist a little and shake.Take out the probe and tap it gently to remove the excess material so that only a fine film will remain on it.Apply the probe carefully along the lower eyelid, while closing the upper eyelid and softly slide out the probe side ways up till its end.Clean the probe again with dry cloth prior to repeating the same procedure for the other eye.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-weight: normal;">Home made kajal is very dark, so one of the ways to use it is, put heavily on eyes at night before going to sleep, wash your face in the morning/after bath, the remaining kajal leaves a beautiful,natural tint on your eyes,which no makeup artist can replicate.</span></li>
</ul>
<span style="font-weight: normal;"> </span><span style="font-weight: normal;"><b> </b></span><br />
<span style="font-weight: normal;"><b> Indications and Contraindications </b></span><br />
<ul style="text-align: left;">
<li><span style="font-weight: normal;">One should apply collyrium everyday for protecting the eyes.Eyes are dominant in tejo mahabhutha,so there is fear of it being afflicted with kapha.Hence process which alleviates kapha is good for eyes.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-weight: normal;">One should not apply collyrium in conditions of tiredness, Udavarta, crying, after intake of alcohol, anger, fear, fever, suppression of natural urges and diseases of head.It is also contra indicated in ocular conditions like redness of eyes, pain,blindness,excessive lacrimation,pain and swelling.</span></li>
</ul>
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<b> Features of proper collyrium application</b><br />
<ul style="text-align: left;">
<li>Clear vision, lightness, no excessive lacrimation, proper functioning, purity of eyes are features of proper action of collyrium.</li>
</ul>
<span style="font-weight: normal;"> </span><span style="font-weight: normal;"><b> </b></span><br />
<span style="font-weight: normal;"><b> Conclusion </b></span><br />
<ul style="text-align: left;">
<li><span style="font-weight: normal;">Gold ornaments are cleaned by means of oil, cloth and hair brush,similarly application of collyrium cleans the human eyes which makes them shine like bright moon in clear sky.</span></li>
</ul>
<span style="font-weight: normal;"> </span><br />
<span style="font-weight: normal;"> Stay healthy !</span><span style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></span><span style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></span><span style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></span><span style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></span><span style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></span><span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="white-space: pre;"> </span></span><span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="white-space: pre;"> </span></span><span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="white-space: pre;"> </span></span><span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="white-space: pre;"> </span></span><span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="white-space: pre;"> </span></span><span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="white-space: pre;"> </span></span><span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="white-space: pre;"> </span></span><span style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></span><span style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></span><span style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></span><span style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></span></div>
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Vaishali G Kamathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13368641312089476984noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4746605527351922533.post-36609734241236654522016-02-29T20:40:00.000+05:302017-08-04T02:54:18.503+05:30Healing power of clay pot water...<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDlEhfxrrCP-L0R7Qmcj7K8O2YwFt8A3oWe49-8gYtxk1pE07thS-XYrEmIoiX7e8KRUCbPKgV44mia5JyvLBHRKUBUPlSs0rvFoMKb458yQzJoHo3tCyaIQWZfl4abshDwfiIJH5ggklo/s1600/Why-is-drinking-water-from-a-clay-pot-good-for-you-273x300.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDlEhfxrrCP-L0R7Qmcj7K8O2YwFt8A3oWe49-8gYtxk1pE07thS-XYrEmIoiX7e8KRUCbPKgV44mia5JyvLBHRKUBUPlSs0rvFoMKb458yQzJoHo3tCyaIQWZfl4abshDwfiIJH5ggklo/s400/Why-is-drinking-water-from-a-clay-pot-good-for-you-273x300.jpg" width="364" /></a></span></div>
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<ul style="text-align: left;">
<li><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Water is the universal elixir of
life.It makes up more than 70 percent of our total body mass and covers the
same proportion of the Earth’s surface.We can live without food for a month or
more; but we will perish in a matter of days without water. We imbibe this
vital power or Prâna from water that gives more energy, health and immunity.
Water is essential for our existence and we should have access to clean water
for our daily activities. </span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">When you talk about drinking water, you need to be
extra cautious. Nowadays most of us drink mineral water or the one from the RO
purifier and store it in plastic bottles. In olden times everybody used to
drink from the clay pot or earthen pot and they were a way lot healthier than
us.Can you believe that by just changing the way the water is stored, you can
make it healthy!</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">In this virtual world, where
everyone is behind technology and advancement, there are people who still rely
on the traditional methods of water purification. This makes earthen pot
sustainable. It has the values and believes attached to its form and function.
Moreover, the material decomposes back to nature without polluting the
environment. Functionality causes zero percent exploitation of resources
indeed! It is a refrigerator which doesn’t require electricity.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">It’s widely known that drinking enough water
each day is an essential key to health. The quality of the water we drink,
however, often gets overlooked. Today, we are blessed with remarkable
convenience in obtaining the water we drink. While some people still hike for
miles to find fresh water, we simply turn on a faucet or run to the nearest
store. Such convenience, however, also breeds less care regarding the quality
of water we drink.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Have you ever had water from clay pot? </span><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"> </span><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Well, if you haven’t, then you are missing out
on countless health benefits. Using a clay pot for water is not just a
traditional alternative to the steel, glass and plastic containers, but it’s a
healthy alternative as well.</span></li>
</ul>
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<b><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"> </span></b><br />
<b><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"> How cooling takes place in the pot?</span></b></div>
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<li><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">As per the science behind the way
of cooling water in a clay pot, the clay pot absorbs some of the water that is
poured into it, which makes the clay pot well moist. The outside temperature
evaporates the humidity on the pot and this cools the kept water at a
comfortable temperature, whose effect lasts until the wall of the pot is moist. </span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">This earthen pot (used for storing water in the olden days), that we have so
merrily traded for plastic, stainless steel and other synthetically
manufactured materials, has tiny pores all over its body that gives it passive
cooling properties. It allows water to evaporate from its surface, similar to
the way a human body functions, keeping the stored water cool.</span></li>
</ul>
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<b><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"> Benefits of drinking clay pot pot water</span></b></div>
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<ul style="text-align: left;">
<li><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">When it comes to storing water,
the earthen pots occupy the primary position. Storing water in an earthen pot
is the best method. Earthen pot not only makes the water chilled during summer
but also provides healing elements of Earth. More importantly the earthen pot
transfers the coolness to the water according to the climatic conditions; which
is the special quality of earthen pot that no other container has. The chilled
water of earthen pots during summer has no other replacement in quenching the
thirst and satisfaction of drinking water<b>.</b></span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Naturally cooled water from clay
pots is readily absorbed by the body and is brimming with micro-nutrients that
it soaks up from the kiln fired earthen pot.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">In the scorching summer heat the
clay pot water is good as compared to fridge water to avoid sunstroke also the
other reason could have been that the sudden temperature change could make us
sick. What we did not realize though, is that the water stored in an earthen
pot is gentle on the throat. It is an ideal drink for people suffering from
cough or cold. It is assumed that people, who drink water from an earthen pot,
have less chances of developing throat infection compared to those, who drink
chilled water from the fridge.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Storing water in plastic
containers is not safe as harmful chemicals such as BPA in plastic, pose a
health hazard by clinging to the water molecules. The traditional clay pot is
the best way of storing water. Drinking water from the clay pot helps in
improving the body’s metabolism and is devoid of harmful chemicals like BPA.
Clay pot water tastes very natural, is pleasantly chilled and is good for
health.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Another benefit of clay water
pots is the alkaline nature of clay. The alkaline clay interacts with the
acidity of water and provides the proper pH balance. This water can help curb
acidity and in turn provides relief from gastronomic pains. This nature of clay
is quite useful and is one of the few well-documented benefits of drinking
water from an earthen pot.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Clay pot water drinking can very
well improve the level of testosterone in your body when compared water stored
in plastic.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">After breaking the clay pot it
depletes into the ground. Indeed it can be reused and recycled. The design
value of earthen pots makes it hundred percent Eco- friendly.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Earthen pots can cool water
without electricity. In fact, most of the people in Rural India rely on earthen
pots as natural refrigerators as it doesn’t require electricity as electricity
isn’t available in these places and the temperature is just apt for the throat.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Drinking water from natural
filtration is better than chemically treated water as human body would need few
bacteria to develop immunity within the body.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Earthen pots results in no
harmful by-products during the production of pottery. Clay scraps and imperfect
pieces produced off the jiggering machine or from slip casting may be re-mixed
and re-used.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">There are health risks involved
with consumption of demineralized water such as it direct effects on the
intestinal mucous membrane, metabolism and mineral homeostasis or other body
functions. Little or no intake of calcium can lead to weaker bones and frequent
tooth bleeding. Moreover, it may also lead to loss of body immunity to fight
against diseases. Earthen pot sustains these minerals in the water and makes it
healthy for drinking as compared to distilled water</span></li>
</ul>
<b><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"> </span></b><div>
<b><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"> Ill effects of water stored in plastic,aluminium containers etc</span></b><br /><div class="MsoNormal">
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<ul style="text-align: left;">
<li><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">If the water is stored in glass
vessels there is no harm; and there is no benefit either. Also, Water should neither
be stored nor used from an aluminum vessel. The Aluminum mixes with water, goes
in to our intestines and the body leading to various diseases. Water stored in
plastic containers contain harmful chemical like Bisphenol A which poses a
health hazard.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">The chemicals added to sanitize
water have also raised concerns in recent years. These include chlorine,
phosphate, lime, soda ash, fluoride and aluminum phosphate. Chlorine, in
particular, has attracted considerable attention. Studies have shown that chlorine
forms carcinogenic chemicals when interacting with organic matter commonly
found in water. Ingesting small amounts of chlorine over time has also been
shown to drop vitamin E levels in the body and destroy beneficial intestinal
flora.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Water is usually stored in
plastic bottles in the refrigerator which contains CFCs or chlorofluorocarbons.
They are organic compounds that found large scale application in refrigerants
few decades ago. However, it was found out that CFCs react with the ozone gas
in our atmosphere and leave us vulnerable to harmful effects of ultraviolet radiations
of sun.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">As awareness of water quality has increased in
recent years, bottled water sales have boomed. Relying solely on bottled water,
however, is more costly and less environmentally friendly than investing in a
quality filtration system. Chemicals from plastic bottles can also leach into
the water, particularly if bottles become hot.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Bottled water can last only for a
couple of days and then starts emitting bad odor. Studies show that the
plastics used for bottles contain chemicals having estrogenic activity.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">The new technology based water
purifiers are sleek and contemporary. The material used in its construction is
unbreakable and assures prolonged storage. The additional filters bring to us
more clean and purified water. Since, the water treated can be stored for a
couple of days. These purifiers are made from unsustainable materials and are
not decomposable. This in turn results in releasing harmful products in nature.</span></li>
</ul>
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<b><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"> How to store water in clay pot ?<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<li><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">For generations, earthen pots
have been used to store water and keep it cool as water stored in matkas or
surahis for a few hours gets cooled at about 10⁰C and 14⁰C. The water kept in clay
pot is said to have a refreshing flavor and is just at the right temperature not too warm and not too chilled. </span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">You can boil water for about 20 minutes, let
it cool down to room temperature and then put it in a clay pot.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">If you already
have a water purifier you can take filtered water and store in clay pot to make
it cool instead of keeping it in fridge.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Bunch of vetiver roots can be put in the clay pot to enhance the cooling effect of water. For more information you can visit http://vaishali2013.blogspot.in/2014/03/beat-heat-using-vetiver.html </span></li>
</ul>
<b><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"> </span></b><div>
<b><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"> Some precautions to be used while using clay potwater.</span></b><br /><div class="MsoNormal">
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<ul style="text-align: left;">
<li><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Keep your earthen pot germ-free,
by scrubbing, cleaning and then drying the clay pot after each use prior to
restocking it. You should make sure that you change the water stored in it regularly
and clean the earthen pot once in 3 days.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Different types of clay pots are
available in the market – a small clay pot is easy to handle while the big one
is hard to move around. Select the clay pot which best suit your needs and your
comfort.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">The breeze will help keep your
water cool, so put the pot on a sturdy table near the window and wrap a clean
moist cloth around the clay pot for faster cooling.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Keep the clay pot covered at all times to
prevent insects, dust and other contaminants from falling into it.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Don’t put a glass directly in
clay pot to take out water as it could contaminate the water, instead use a
clean, long-handled ladle.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Check clay pot properly while
buying that there is no crack, otherwise water can leak out. A cracked clay pot
cannot cool the water effectively.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Water storage in earthen pots was
easy, but soon people realized it’s difficult to pour out water by tuning the
heavy water filled pots. Even as the water level goes much deeper, the water
cannot be taken out easily .To avoid this problem the earthen pots with
attached tap can be used for </span><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"> </span><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">easy water
pouring and saving each drop wisely.</span></li>
</ul>
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<b><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"> Conclusion<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<ul style="text-align: left;">
<li><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">A grassroots alternative to
hi-tech filtration systems is earthen pots. It is important to understand that
the innovation and technology have their roots inspired from the ancient
practices and equipment. Like the concept of current water purifiers is nothing
put an inverted pot with a stopper. The slight innovation in the design has
increased its function multi fold. Even though the current water purifiers can
serve the purpose perfectly, there are few moments when human realize that
their made technology fails in many situations and the need becomes to switch
back to the tried and tested old methods.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Most of us have grown up on </span><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"> </span><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">soothing coolness and earthy flavor </span><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"> </span><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">of clay pot water that would quench our thirst
on hot summer days, like nothing else could. But with refrigeration taking
over, out went this very healthy practice! This article focuses on the
unceasing existence and usage of earthen pots despite of the new advancement in
technologies. After reading this post you may be tempted to get a clay pot
right away! Well, what are you waiting for?</span></li>
</ul>
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"> </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"> Stay healthy !</span><br />
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Vaishali G Kamathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13368641312089476984noreply@blogger.com16tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4746605527351922533.post-80046426285261976492016-01-30T18:49:00.000+05:302016-01-30T18:49:21.891+05:30Ashtang Ayurveda ( eight wings of Ayurveda)<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> </span><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8XBzAAefmDBa5TsuTcms2O4AdaSYsX-tiUVLqhWTnAnSmFcgb98Z7dxH7tSD0Xf9uVrbTBmRvvwcejNqHKbwth77VBbmffjU7-IQ6j0oU_Dz7JbheLbitFuh5CeAsSJ2YyMifpNXUd-k9/s1600/8branches.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: x-large; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8XBzAAefmDBa5TsuTcms2O4AdaSYsX-tiUVLqhWTnAnSmFcgb98Z7dxH7tSD0Xf9uVrbTBmRvvwcejNqHKbwth77VBbmffjU7-IQ6j0oU_Dz7JbheLbitFuh5CeAsSJ2YyMifpNXUd-k9/s640/8branches.jpg" width="640" /></a><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;">Ayurveda, is very vast hence it’s divided into
eight branches, which are collectively called as Ashtang Ayurveda. Like any
other modern medicinal therapies, Ayurveda believes in specialized treatment
for different body parts. Thus, the medicinal art have been categorized under
branches that deal with psychiatry, internal medicine, treatment of eyes, ears,
nose, throat and head, toxicology and gerentorology separately. Ayurveda is a
very elaborate and vast medicinal science. It deals with several kinds of
complex ailments and surgeries. The science of Ayurveda is divided into eight
different categories in order to clearly demarcate the treatment of one ailment
from another. That is why the science of Ayurveda is often referred as Astang
Ayurveda i.e. the life science with eight branches.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Ayurveda is an ancient medicinal science. It
originated in the Indian subcontinent about 5000 years ago and is considered to
be one of the most advance medical therapies existing in the world till now.Ayurveda is the first ever medicine
system to categorize pediatrics, aphrodisiacs and surgery as the branches of
any medicinal science.</span><span style="font-family: Centaur, serif; font-size: 14pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Intro<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><b>"Kaaya baala graha urdhvaanga shalya
damshtra jara vrshan Ashtau angaani tasyaahuh chikitsa yeshu samsthitaah."<o:p></o:p></b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><b>-Ashtanga hrdayam<o:p></o:p></b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><b>Which are 8 branches?</b><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">1. Kaaya Chikitsa (Internal Medicine),<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">2. Baala Chikitsa (Treatment of Children/Pediatrics),<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">3. Graha Chikitsa (Demonology/Psychology),<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">4. Urdhvaanga Chikitsa (Treatment of eyes,
ears, nose, throat and head)<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">5. Shalya Chikitsa (Surgery),<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">6. Damstra Chikitsa/Agad tantra (Toxicology)<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">7. Jara Chikitsa (Geriatrics, Rejuvenation), <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">8. Vrusha Chikitsa (Aphrodisiac therapy).<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><b> Description about 8
branches</b></span></div>
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<b style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: x-large;"> </b><b style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">Kayachikitsa( Internal Medicine)</span></b></div>
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<ul style="text-align: left;">
<li><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;">Ayurveda is the holistic approach, which is
mainly concerned with the treatment of the body kayachikitsa, is the first
branch of Astanga Ayurveda or eight-branched Ayurveda that deals with general
medicine. The total treatment procedure is called Kaya Chikitsa (or internal
medicine), wherein kaya means 'body' and chikitsa means 'treatment'. Kaya
Chikitsa mainly deals with the diagnosis and treatment of a variety of general
diseases, such as skin disorders, diabetes, tuberculosis, rheumatoid arthritis
and many other disorders.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;"> </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;">Charaka
Samhita is the most important scripture on kayachikitsa. It discussed the basic
principles of treatment, various types of therapies and purification or
detoxification methods. According to this natural treatment, the body of a
person is product of the constant psychosomatic interactions and diseases
caused are due to the imbalance caused in the trishods of the body. This
imbalance caused in the three doshas of vata-pitta-kapha is sometimes, caused
by the mind and occasionally by the body's dhatu (tissues) and mala (toxin
deposits). It is then that the kayachitikitsa branch of ayurveda comes to
assistance.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;">Kayachitikitsa is the branch of herbal and
holistic medicine, which delves deep into ascertaining the root cause of the
illness. The entire Ayurvedic therapeutics is based on the concept of Agni. The
concept of Kaya (Agni) is unique and is responsible for bio- transformation. As
it is known that energy can neither be created nor can it be destroyed. In
human body, Kaya provides the necessary energy for all bodily activities. The
energy provided is derived from the food we eat and the air we breathe. The
biological system of the body transforms this energy to one, which is utilized
by the cells. The Treatment There are six stages of the development of disease
are enumerated as aggravation, accumulation, overflow, relocation, build up in
a new site and manifestation into a recognizable disease.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;"> </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;">In
kayachikitsa, there is always an opportunity to stop the disease at each stage,
thereby preventing its full manifestation. One of the significant methods of
treatment under kayachikitsa is panchakarma. In this procedure, the body is
purified and cleansed from the vitiated dosha to achieve the state of
homogenizes and happiness. In short, this method mainly deals with reversing
the disease path from its manifestation stage, back into to its site of
original development, through special forms of emesis, purgation and enema.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;">Panchakarmas means five treatments—Vamana (Emesis),
Virechana(purgation), Basti (Enema), Nasya(Nasal Medications), Raktamoksha
(Different forms of bloodletting)</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;">In the kaya chikitsa ‘Agni’ – the digestive fire
in the body is given utmost importance. It is responsible for the metabolism in
the body. The imbalance to this ‘Agni’ is the cause for many diseases. Kaya
chikitsa deals with the treatment of general ailments, by regulating the
digestive fire. Basically Agni is responsible for conversion of food into the
body elements. Diseases emerge due to malfunctioning of the Agni and hence if
the Agni is set right again, then the patients get cured. Hence the whole treatment
in Ayurveda is based on the concept of Agni.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;">Modern equipment and diagnosis can mostly detect a
disease during the fifth and sixth stages of illness.Áyurvedic physicians can
recognize an illness in the making before it creates more serious imbalance in
the body. Health is seen as a balance of the biological humors, whereas disease
is an imbalance of the humors. Áyurveda creates balance by supplying deficient
humors and reducing the excess ones. Surgery is seen as a last resort.</span></li>
</ul>
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<b style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: x-large;"> </b><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Baala chikitsa /Kaumára bhritya ( Paediatrics)</span></h3>
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<li><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;">Kaumarabhritya or Bala Chikitsa deals with all
diseases of the infants. According to Acharya Susruta it deals with diseases of
Kumara or child, qualities of a wet nurse, causes of vitiation of breast milk
and its mode of purification, diseases due to intake of this vitiated breast
milk, its treatment and the influence of grahas on the child which leads to
diseases or can be said as the infections and its treatments and affections of
childhood. According to Acharya Harita antenatal care and management of
Puerperium also come under this branch.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;">Kaumarabhritya literally it means nurturing a
child from pregnancy to adolescence. The modern branches Obstetrics, Gynecology
and Pediatrics come under this branch. This branch deals with diseases of
children. There are three aspects that must be remembered while treating
children-they are Children cannot explain their complaints, the dosage of
medicine is different for them, the medicines given to them must be palatable
to them. Due to these conditions, treating children is done in a different
manner. Hence a separate branch is devoted for them.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;">There is another peculiarity of Ayurveda that it
emphasizes on breast milk for feeding the babies and yet another important
factor is, if the breast milk is not proper in quality it may also produces
diseases in baby and hence needs to be purified by certain herbs for treating
the child.</span></li>
</ul>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><b> Graha chikitsa /Bhúta Vidyá (Psychiatry)</b><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<li><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;">Bhuta Vidya is defined as a science of spiritual
healing.</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;"> </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;">It deals primarily with the
mental diseases, children’s diseases, and diseases that do not follow the
theory of Tridosha balance.</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;"> </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;">This subject
does not have a specific text.</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;"> </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;">Rather it
is directly linked with the Atharva Veda and other religious texts.</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;"> </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;">The theory of spiritual healing, in general,
is based upon chanting or sound therapy, called Mantra in Sanskrit.</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;"> </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;">Mantras are composed using specific vowels
and consonants.</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;"> </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;">Hindu and Buddhist
religious practitioners believe that the repetition of mantras links them with
deities, and yields supernatural powers that can be used to cure many diseases.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;">It dictates the diagnosis and treatment of
mental diseases. This branch of Ayurveda deals with diseases like insanity,
epilepsy and diseases caused by affliction of external factors such as evil
spirits. In other words it may be known as the branch that deals with the
treatment of psychosomatic diseases. It treats the conditions like Insomnia,
Depression and stress etc.</span></li>
</ul>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><b> Urdhvangachikitsa/shalakyatantra(ENT andOphthalmology)<o:p></o:p></b></span></div>
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<li><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;">According to Acharya Susruta it includes all the
diseases pertaining to Urdhvanga – Area above the clavicle i.e., eyes, ears,
nose, mouth, throat,teeth and head etc and its treatment. It comprehends the
faculties of Ophthalmology and Otorhinolaryngology. The branch is also called
“Shalakaya Tantra.” Because of the use of special kind of instrument called as
“Shalaka” (probe).Following are the sub branches of shalakya tantra Netrachikitsa(ophthalmology),karnachikitsa(otology),Mukharogachikitsa(
oral health,dentistry and laryngology),and Shirorogachikitsa( diseases of
cranium)</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;">Shalakya Tantra deals with the etiology, diagnosis, prognosis, prevention
and treatment of diseases that are located above the neck region such as the
head, ear, nose, eye and throat. Sushruta reveals approximately 72 eye
diseases, surgical procedures for all eye disorders (e.g., cataracts, eyelid
diseases), and for diseases of the ears, nose, and throat.Acharya Nimi is
considered as father of this branch.</span></li>
</ul>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><b> Shalya chikitsa (Surgery)<o:p></o:p></b></span></div>
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<li><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;">Salyatantra analogous to Surgery of Modern
Medicine. Surgical methods of Ayurveda existed long before they were invented
in the west. Ancient texts of Ayurveda describe many details on surgery.Acharya
Susruta is considered as the father of Surgery. In the ancient India, surgery
was principally pioneered by Ayurveda. Shalya Chikitsa is a significant branch
of Ayurvedic science. The name of the sage-physician, Susruta, is synonymous
with surgery. From his treatise Susruta Samhita, we have become aware of the
thousands of years ago sophisticated methods of surgery that were practiced in
India.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;">This branch deals with various surgical and
orthopedic procedures. Removing foreign bodies either of exogenous (Sand, wood,
stone, arrow,sword,warfare materials etc) or endogenous origin (pus, dead
fetus, extravagated blood etc.)From the body. It also deals with the diagnosis
and management of inflammatory </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;"> </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;">swellings
and description of various uses of surgical instruments. It also explains the
mode of preparation, properties and applications of various cauterizes (alkalis,
fire etc.)It is carried out only for diseases, which cannot be cured by
medicines. It explains the management of the conditions like trauma and
Fracture, Ano-rectal diseases, Osteoporosis, Osteoarthritis, Joint dislocations
etc.The ancient Ayurvedic knowledge of surgery was well developed in the time
of the rishis and munis, and was prestigious and well known throughout the
ancient world.</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;"> </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;">The medieval healers,
however, did not preserve nor develop this tradition, because they had little
time to study and practice surgery with all its complex knowledge and
specialized manual skills.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;">The elaborate description about various kinds of
instruments such as scissors, scalps, holders, etc., is really amazing.
Sushrutacharya also described various operations such as urine stone, piles,
fistula; cataract, even perforations of abdomen. Sushruta has been accepted as
the father of “plastic surgery”. A different kind of surgery is very effective
known as ‘Ksharsutra’ which is used in ‘fistula in ano’.</span></li>
</ul>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><b> Visha chikitsa/Damshtra chikitsa (Toxicology)</b><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<li><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;">This particular branch deals with the treatment
of poisons. Poisons may be animal oriented, plant oriented or derived from
ores. Texts give elaborate description about various snake bites; scorpion
bites etc. with their symptoms and treatment. Topics include air and water
pollution, toxins in animals, minerals, vegetables, and epidemics, as well as
keys for recognizing these anomalies and their antidotes.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;">The traditional practice of toxicology is still
practiced by different families of vishavaidyas (poison doctors) who claim to
be specialists in toxicology.</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;"> </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;">In fact,
their knowledge is quite limited compared to earlier physicians, but people in
the villages still benefit from their ability to deal with poisonous
bites.</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;"> </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;">In ancient times, it was the job
of Vishavaidyas to protect members of the royal families from being poisoned,
as well to poison enemies of the kings.</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;">
</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;">One method was to use vishakanyas (poison girls).</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;"> </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;">These women would begin to take poison in
small doses starting in childhood, developing immunity as snake handlers or
beekeepers do now.</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;"> </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;">Later on, when they
were grown, their kiss or bite could poison enough to paralyze or kill.
Nowadays vyavaharayurved (jurisprudence) is an integral part of this branch.</span></li>
</ul>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><b> Rasayana chikitsa/Jara Chikitsa(Rejuvenation)</b><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<li><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;">Deals with the methodology and medications to
preserve youth or maintain lifespan even prolong it, promote intelligence and
strength and give immunity to resist diseases. This branch deals with the
diseases associated with the aging process. It actually provides ways to
prohibit the aging process to some extent. Rejuvenation of body tissues is
possible according to Ayurveda by using this branch. This branch needs to be
emphasized more for increasing longevity of and quality of life.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;">Rasayana Tantra is defined as the science of
practices promoting long life and good health.</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;">
</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;">It deals with the problems of untimely old age and poor immunity. It
suggests measures to check aging and to increase lifespan and brain health. It
deals in rejuvenation and restoring the youthfulness of an individual and deals
with various therapies and herbs that have to be taken to restore the youth
& vitality. They are anabolic, adaptogenic, immune modulators, Neuro
endocrine modulators and Free radical scavengers.Rasayana is the one used to promote
rasa and allied tissues (saptadhatu)</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;">Rasayana Chikitsa deals with various aspects of
preventive health care. This branch of Ashtang Ayurveda aims at achieving a
long and healthy life. It includes longevity, improved memory, health,
youthfulness, glow, complexion, generosity, strength of body and senses.</span></li>
</ul>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><b> Vajikara(ReproductiveMedicine/Aphrodisiacs)</b><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<li><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;">Vaji actually means horse and karana means to
follow. This part deals with remedies for increasing the quantity of Semen when
it’s scanty, methods for purification when vitiated, replenishing its losses
and methods for improving virility. Vajikarana Tantra is defined as the science
of purification of male and female genetic organs.</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;"> </span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;">As per ayurveda </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;"> </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;">sex is one among the essential component of
human life that enhances his health and grants him the endurance and the power
to pave way for his future generations. This branch is also known as Vajikarana
and it deals with the aphrodisiacs therapy for being paid with good descendants
and virility. Vrishya Chtikitsa is a branch of Ayurveda that explains the art
of producing healthy progeny for the creation of a better society. It deals
with various diseases like infertility and conditions relating to weak shukra
dhatu or the vital reproductive fluids of the body. Vrishya Chtikitsa is also
known as Vajikarana, which means the medicine or therapy by which a man becomes
capable of copulating with a woman</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;"> </span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;">It washes away the problems related to
infertility in men and women. In this branch there is a mention of variety of
aphrodisiac medicines and even food material. To produce best progeny is also
an important aspect of life.This section deals with two aspects: infertility
(for those hoping to conceive) and spiritual development (for those eager to
transmute sexual energy into spiritual energy).</span></li>
</ul>
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<li><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;">Globalization in the world has led to attract
more n more people around the globe to show interest in the eastern medical
system Ayurveda. This ancient system has eight branches called “Ashtanga
Ayurveda”. Ayurveda is age-old and time tested. Since times immemorial this
system of medicine has been in use and has proved to be result oriented and
justified. It would be of good concern to ponder over the fact that the same
herbal drugs and formulations that had been used hundreds of years ago are
still in use. There have been little or no replacements whatsoever.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;">Although the system has eight branches of
treatment, the basic mode of all these eight disciplines is the same. They are
used in two ways. They are preventive and curative. Ayurveda gives more
importance to the preventive aspect of medicine. It insists more on the the
positive side of regular daily </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;"> </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;">practices
(Dinacharya) to prevent diseases than treating the negative side of health, the
diseases.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;">Though this life science is </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;"> </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;">divided into eight branches for simplification
of our understanding, yet it is so vast and explanatory that each of these
branches takes years and years for mastering.</span></li>
</ul>
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Vaishali G Kamathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13368641312089476984noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4746605527351922533.post-72677037797703249012015-11-23T17:47:00.002+05:302015-11-23T17:49:56.101+05:30 Head massage is a must for all !<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<ul style="text-align: left;">
<li><span style="font-size: large; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Shiroabhyangam is the original name for the Indian head massage. Shir means
head, and Abhyangam means oil application. Thus oil application on the head is
called as Shiroabhyangam in Sanskrit, a language in which the Ayurvedic
classics were initially written, almost 5000 years ago.</span></span></li>
<li><span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">It’s held a special place both in the "kitchen table
wisdom" of Indian mothers and in the medical bag of Ayurvedic physicians.
Now making its way to the West, this seemingly simple health technique is
finding new "disciples" eager to use it in their fight against
modern-day problems.</span></span></li>
<li><span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">An head massage serves not only to relieve pain but
especially as preventive medicine increasing circulation, stimulating and
strengthening the lymphatic system, and opening the flow of life force in order
to cleanse and revitalize the body . It also helps to relieve stress and the
generation of positive emotions to make us feel better both physical and
mentally.</span></span></li>
<li><span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Many people manifest their stress physically as muscular
tension, quite often in the neck and head areas. This may be particularly
apparent in the occipital region at the back of the head where many of the back
and shoulder muscles attach. In addition, those who use computers regularly may
find their seated posture is less than optimal, leading to aches and pains in
the upper back, shoulders and neck. After a treatment it is common to feel more
balanced, centered and recharged, with a reduction in neck stiffness and an
increase in mobility in the treated areas. Even without any specific problem
areas, each one can experience a greater sense of calm and relaxation making it
a very special therapy.</span></span></li>
<li><span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">The Indian head massage is not exclusive for particular age
group, whereas from infant to old person should enjoy this massage and reap
their health benefits, too. A piece of trivia that many people are not aware of
is that in certain parts of India, it is customary among barbers to give their
clients after their haircut a head massage therapy. This practice is also done
in the Western world although some tweaks were added to it and is given only
for the purpose of stress relief and management, alleviate fatigue and to
improve blood circulation in the upper portion of the body.</span></span></li>
</ul>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><b><span style="line-height: 115%;"> Importance of Head or 'Shir' in Ayurveda</span></b><span style="line-height: 115%;"> </span></span></h3>
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<li><span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">According to Ayurveda, there are a total of 108 Marmas or
life centers throughout the body. Marmas or life centers can be considered as
vital points in the body where the subtle energy of Prana is converted,
regulated and stored for use by the gross body and mind. They are also sites of
the Tridosha (Vata, Pitta & Kapha). In total there are 108 Marmas
throughout the body and 12 from these are classified as Padu Marmas or Vital
life centers. Six from the 12 vital life centres are located in the head and
neck region alone. This shows that head and neck region is very critical and
vital.</span></span></li>
<li><span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Out of the three (Heart, Head, and Pelvic region including
the excretory and reproductive systems) most important parts of the body, head
is the foremost. Head consists of the brain which is the seat of consciousness.
It also consists of all the sense organs through which we interact with the
outer world.</span></span></li>
<li><span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">According to Hatha yoga philosophy the human head is
compared as the root and the body its branches. The human body is compared to
an uprooted tree in the materialistic world, and to see it in the correct form,
the roots of the tree should be fixed in the ground. Ayurveda further relates
to this and says that as the roots of a tree need water and natural fertilizers
to grow and maintain itself , our head also needs the same in the form of
different herbal oils that we should massage on the head, and so it prescribes
the treatment called as Shiroabhyangam.</span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><span style="line-height: 115%;">In Kundalini yoga the sixth and the seventh chakra (A chakra
is a psychic centre that controls all of our physical and mental functioning)
i.e. the 'Ajnya '(analogous to the pituitary gland and brain) and
'Sahastradhara' (Lotus with thousand petals, analogous to the brain) lie in the
head.</span><span style="line-height: 115%;"> </span></span></li>
</ul>
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<b><span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"> Choosing a Massage
Oil</span></span></b></h3>
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<li><span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Massaging the scalp and hair with warm oil, preferably
infused with hair-nourishing herbs, is the best way to nurture the scalp and
hair topically. Ayurvedic oils designed for hair and scalp massage typically
include one or more hair-friendly herbs to augment the benefit of the massage.
Traditionally, these herbs are slow-cooked with the oil, and the oil is then
strained and ready for use.</span></span></li>
<li><span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">The oil for the massage can be customized by hair and body
type.</span></span></li>
<li><span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">If your hair is thin, dry and frizzy and prone to
split-ends, you have Vata hair. You must choose almond oil or sesame oil as the
base oil. Both of these oils are very nourishing for the scalp and hair and
help reduce stiffness and tightness in the scalp.</span></span></li>
<li><span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">If you have fine hair prone to premature thinning or
graying, you are Pitta predominant cooling coconut oil is the ideal choice as
coconut is Pitta-pacifying, coconut oil massage can retard hair problems
associated with an aggravated Pitta dosha.</span></span></li>
<li><span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">If you are predominantly Kapha, your hair will tend to be
thick and oily. Sesame oil is a good choice in this case.</span></span></li>
<li><span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Different oils are made use of for their various beneficial
properties.</span></span></li>
<li><span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Almond oil helps promote healthy hair, reduces stiffness,
aches, and pains.</span></span></li>
<li><span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Coconut oil is considered to be very effective for the
moisturizing of the skin and encouraging the growth of hair. It also brings
about a balance to the body.</span></span></li>
<li><span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Just like almond oil, mustard oil helps in relieving
stiffness, aches and pains. It can also be used to bring down swelling and can
also help in making the blood pure by opening the pores.</span></span></li>
<li><span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">One of the most commonly used oils is sesame oil. Apart from
reducing stiffness, aches and pains, it can also benefit the growth of hair and
reduce the process of hair graying and bring out a natural shine.</span></span></li>
<li><span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">There are lots of other medicinal oils available in the
market which should be selected as per expert advice.</span></span></li>
</ul>
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<b><span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"> When to take massage</span></span></b></h3>
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<li><span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Conduct a scalp massage with hair oil before going off to
sleep. This will help relax the mind and achieve sound sleep. It is advisable
to receive a head massage just once in a week, but it would be always
beneficial if head massage is done more number of times in a week or even daily
if possible.</span></span></li>
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<b><span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"> Duration</span></span></b></h3>
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<li><span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">The duration of this massage is usually from 30 to 40
minutes and brings about total relaxation to the soul, mind and body. Getting a
scalp massage before going to sleep helps bring relaxation to the mind and
ensures a sound sleep. It is advisable to get an Ayurvedic massage just once a
week. </span></span></li>
<li><span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">You should avoid any kind of intense activity soon after
massage as the massage will bring total relaxation to the muscles, which will
make the individual lethargic. <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<b><span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"> Method of head massage</span></span></b></h3>
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<li><span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">The head is the most significant part of the body. It
encompasses eight vital openings—the eyes, ears, nose, mouth, and one principal
opening, the crown of the head. There are also vital energy points over the
entire head that connect to the brain and the mind.</span></span></li>
<li><span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Drape a towel over the shoulders to protect clothing. Play
soothing music and dim the lights.</span></span></li>
<li><span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Turn off or put away your phones and all other electronic
devices.</span></span></li>
<li><span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Pour 4-5 tbsp of any oil into a small bowl. You may
wish to try almond, coconut or sesame oil.</span></span></li>
<li><span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Pour some oil into a bowl; the oil should be warm but
comfortable to the touch. It should not be too hot.</span></span></li>
<li><span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Dip your fingers into the oil and begin to rub your scalp
gently, using circular motions. Alternate to short vertical, then horizontal
strokes all over the scalp.</span></span></li>
<li><span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Work your way around the entire scalp, wetting your fingers
with additional oil as you work. Gently massage the whole head with your thumbs
and fingers.</span></span></li>
<li><span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Using the pads of your fingers, apply the oil little by
little to different parts of your scalp, parting your hair as needed. Also work
some oil along the length of your hair.</span></span></li>
<li><span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Then, using the pads of your fingers, work the oil into your
scalp, using circular motions. Slow, deliberate movements are relaxing while
steady but vigorous movement helps enhance energy and circulation.</span></span></li>
<li><span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Be sure to massage the entire scalp, being careful not to
get any oil in the eyes. If needed, add more oil to the bowl.</span></span></li>
<li><span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Spread some oil over the back of the head and massage the
oil into your neck and shoulders.</span></span></li>
<li><span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Massage all the way down to the ears. Rub a bit of oil into
the earlobes; it feels really good.</span></span></li>
<li><span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Massage the back of the neck with slow, long strokes. Repeat
the entire process if time allows, keeping calm, loving energy as you go.</span></span></li>
<li><span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Wrap head in a clean towel and either lie down for 30-40
minutes before showering and washing hair, or leave the oil in overnight for a
deep conditioning treatment. Just cover your pillow with another dry, clean
towel to safeguard your bedding.</span></span></li>
<li><span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">In the morning, you can wash the oil out with a gentle
natural shampoo.</span></span></li>
<li><span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">So, if you are tired after a long day at the office and want
to recharge your batteries or simply want to induce yourself into
a blissful sleep, you know just what to do!!</span></span></li>
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<b><span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"> Benefits of head massage</span></span></b></h3>
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<li><span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">A good head massage induces a state of calm, peace and
tranquility. It also promotes high levels of alertness and concentration.
Contrary to popular belief, an Ayurvedic head massage is not only beneficial
for a healthy scalp but also positively impacts the entire body.</span></span></li>
<li><span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Head massage strengthens the nervous system and supports
balance of the brain’s chemistry and hormones. Relieve headaches and tension
and makes you feel refreshed and awake. Head feels lighter, mind feels clearer</span></span></li>
<li><span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Head massage helps a person to have a sound sleep and can
also help in renewing brain cells. Benefits memory, cognition, and
alertness.</span></span></li>
<li><span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Clears the mind and revitalizes mental capacity, by
improving alertness and concentration, general balancing and giving a sense of
calm and peace.</span></span></li>
<li><span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Brings clarity and strength to the sense organs</span></span></li>
<li><span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Head massage helps in conditions like headaches, stress and
fatigue, eyestrain, sinusitis, insomnia etc and it has beneficial effects on
the blood circulation of the body.</span></span></li>
<li><span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">The massage helps relax the muscles in the neck area</span></span></li>
<li><span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Promotes deep and restful sleep when preformed at bedtime.</span></span></li>
<li><span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Antidote to stress, anxiety and mental tension and calms the
respiratory system</span></span></li>
<li><span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Improves blood circulation and lymphatic drainage to the
head and neck</span></span></li>
<li><span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Improves muscle tone and mobility in the head, neck and
shoulder area</span></span></li>
<li><span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Physically revitalizing relieves mental and physical strain,
so helping to improve concentration and productivity.</span></span></li>
<li><span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Head massage provides the hair with the required nutrition
and makes it strong and healthy. It can also help in preventing hair loss.
It also slows down the hair graying process, it helps to get rid of
various hair related problems and conditions such as dandruff, dead skin, scalp
psoriasis and many more.</span></span></li>
<li><span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">There’s no over the counter hair conditioner or masque that
will provide the healing benefits of a proper Ayurvedic scalp massage.</span></span></li>
<li><span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">It is also responsible for strengthening the hair from the
roots and providing a noticeable luster. It lubricates and conditions the
scalp, helping to prevent flakes and dry scalp.</span></span></li>
<li><span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">It helps strengthen the roots of the hair and nourishes the
hair-shafts, promoting new hair growth and strengthening current hair making it
more manageable.</span></span></li>
<li><span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">It helps protect hair from the damaging effects of the sun
and harsh weather by improving resiliency over time.</span></span></li>
</ul>
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<li><span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Ayurvedic head massage relies on liberal application of
herbal oils to aid the massage process. It is a good idea to find out whether
your body has any adverse reaction to the oil by applying a small amount of oil
to your forearm.</span></span></li>
<li><span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">People with acne prone skin may choose to wash hair after
around an hour to avoid increase in the condition.</span></span></li>
<li><span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Any kind of rigorous activity should be avoided as the
massage completely relaxes the muscles in the body due to which the person may
feel lethargic; it is also a good idea not to schedule any important business
immediately after the massage.</span></span></li>
</ul>
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<b><span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"> Conclusion</span></span></b></h3>
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<ul style="text-align: left;">
<li><span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Head massage is an ancient massage practice incorporated in
India hundreds of years ago. Till today, people enjoy a scalp massage as it
helps relax the body to a great extent. An Ayurvedic scalp massage is an art
which needs to be studied and practiced regularly. Ayurvedic head massage is
turning out to be quite popular everywhere in the world.</span></span></li>
<li><span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">For centuries, we Indians have grown up with the knowledge
that a good scalp massage can rid you of tensions and aches, all the while
providing your scalp and hair strength.</span></span></li>
<li><span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">You’ve had a long day at work and by the time you get home
you’re completely stressed. Your head feels ready to explode with all the
tension and you just want to relax at home. So what do you do then? Something
as simple as a head massage can go a long way in relieving you of your stress
and worries while also catering to your overall well-being! A good Ayurvedic
massage is the best way to de-stress. What’s even better, you can do it at your
own time and comfort! It comprises of kneading actions on the head and scalp
with the generous use of oil. Anyone who has undergone an Ayurvedic head
massage will testify that it is one of the most relaxing forms of massage</span></span></li>
<li><span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Shiroabhyanga or Ayurvedic massage is an essential part of a
healthy daily routine. Regular massage helps detoxification of the body and
provides nourishment to the deeper tissues. This daily regimen produces a
powerful preventive and rejuvenative effect on the body. It also leaves you
feeling young, vital, beautiful, and healthy. Ayurvedic head massage focuses on
the shoulders, neck, face and head, the areas most vulnerable to stress and
tension. The head massage induces a state of calm, peace and tranquility and
promotes high levels of alertness and concentration. Head Massage is part of
the Ayurvedic bodywork anti-ageing system.</span></span><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large; line-height: 115%;"> </span></li>
</ul>
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Vaishali G Kamathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13368641312089476984noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4746605527351922533.post-65670620514654867642015-07-03T00:21:00.000+05:302015-08-26T02:25:08.261+05:30Magical Super food - Finger millet (Ragi)<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;"> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjlwndtFGmGEUsJeK_9LqpCjR5UNpbzzxsA3CwjU6oXlm40irJN8B2Wmj0xTS3yi41I_iAj6PLo4pxkN_MOu8H7970J_aS1AyKVMxBbi5V5jlAiThWk4sgh-RLRYqZogLsb5NaWiJq3sqn/s1600/finger-millet.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="237" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjlwndtFGmGEUsJeK_9LqpCjR5UNpbzzxsA3CwjU6oXlm40irJN8B2Wmj0xTS3yi41I_iAj6PLo4pxkN_MOu8H7970J_aS1AyKVMxBbi5V5jlAiThWk4sgh-RLRYqZogLsb5NaWiJq3sqn/s400/finger-millet.jpg" width="400" /></a></span></div>
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<ul style="text-align: left;">
<li><span style="font-family: 'Book Antiqua', serif; font-size: large;">Finger
millet is a powerhouse of health benefiting nutrients that help in reducing
weight and also acts as a treatment for multiple diseases like Brittle Bones,
Osteoporosis, Anemia and Diabetes. </span><span style="font-family: 'Book Antiqua', serif; font-size: large;">It’s
also known as African finger millet,red millet is an annual plant widely grown
in arid areas of Africa and Asia. Its botanical name is Eleusine coracana. But
across the length and breadth of this country it is known as ragi, mandua,
nachni and so on.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: 'Book Antiqua', serif; font-size: large;">It is a natural
relaxant that helps in relieving stress and anxiety. It is one such rare cereal
that doesn’t need to be polished and, therefore, can be consumed in its purest
form with all its goodness intact and </span><span style="font-family: 'Book Antiqua', serif; font-size: large;">has
a naturally delicious taste...a little like subtle cocoa so you don't even need
to use spices with it. When it is roasted in ghee it even looks like melted
chocolate!</span><span style="font-family: 'Book Antiqua', serif; font-size: large;"> </span><span style="font-family: 'Book Antiqua', serif; font-size: large;">As a food, it shares a high
nutritional profile and an equally high sustaining power; it, therefore, most
definitely, qualifies as a Super Food. It has the amazing property of being suitable
for the 0 to 90 age groups.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: 'Book Antiqua', serif; font-size: large;">Millets are one of
the most important cereal grains. These are consumed by more than 1/3rd of the
world’s population. It is the 6th cereal crop in terms of the world’s
agricultural production. A majority of the world’s commercial millet crop is
produced by China, India, Greece, Egypt and Africa. There are several varieties
of millet available throughout the world. The most commonly found millets are
Jowar (Sorghum), Sama (Little millet), Ragi (Finger Millet), Korra (Foxtail
millet) and Variga (Prose millet). Bajra and Sama are high in fat while Ragi
has the lowest fat.</span></li>
</ul>
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<b><span style="font-family: "Book Antiqua","serif";"><span style="font-size: large;"> Cultivation<o:p></o:p></span></span></b></div>
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<ul style="text-align: left;">
<li><span style="font-family: 'Book Antiqua', serif; font-size: large;">Ragi
in India is one of the important cereals which occupy the highest area under
cultivation among the small millets. The state of Karnataka is the largest
producer of ragi in India. Finger millet is originally native to the Ethiopian
Highlands and was introduced into India approximately 4000 years ago. </span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: 'Book Antiqua', serif; font-size: large;">It is
very adaptable to higher elevations and is grown in the Himalaya up to 2,300 m
altitude. Ragi is seldom attacked by pests hence can be grown safely without
pesticides. It is an economical source of nutrition for developing countries.At
the ground level, in the farms, this hardy grain grows in very diverse
eco-zones. </span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: 'Book Antiqua', serif; font-size: large;">It requires very little care and can thrive even in drought
conditions. It is also resistant to pests and diseases, ensuring that the food
basket of a farm is never empty. With a 1ton per hectare yield, it has the
highest productivity among the small millets of India.</span></li>
</ul>
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<b><span style="font-family: "Book Antiqua","serif";"><span style="font-size: large;"> Storage<o:p></o:p></span></span></b></div>
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<ul style="text-align: left;">
<li><span style="font-family: 'Book Antiqua', serif; font-size: large;">Once
harvested, the seeds keep extremely well and are seldom attacked by insects or
moulds. The long storage capacity makes finger millet an important crop in
risk-avoidance strategies for poorer farming communities.</span></li>
</ul>
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<b><span style="font-family: "Book Antiqua","serif";"><span style="font-size: large;"> Ayurvedic perspective</span></span></b></div>
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<ul style="text-align: left;">
<li><span style="font-family: 'Book Antiqua', serif; font-size: large;">Guna(Quality)-
Laghu</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: 'Book Antiqua', serif; font-size: large;">Rasa
(Taste)-Madhur, Tikta, Kashay</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: 'Book Antiqua', serif; font-size: large;">Vipak(Metabolism)-
Madhur</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: 'Book Antiqua', serif; font-size: large;">Virya
(Potency)-Sheeta (cooling)</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: 'Book Antiqua', serif; font-size: large;">Prabhav
(Impact)- Tridosh-shamak</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: 'Book Antiqua', serif; font-size: large;">Therapeutic
uses-</span><span style="font-family: 'Book Antiqua', serif; font-size: large;">Trisna(Thirst),
Karapada daha(burning sensation of palms and feet),Swasa (Asthma),Kasa (Cough),Jwaropdrava
(complications of fever)etc </span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: 'Book Antiqua', serif; font-size: large;">From
an Ayurvedic perspective, ragi is considered Sweet, Warming, Dry and Light. Due
to its light, warming and drying effect, ragi is considered compatible in the
treatment of high Ama, high cholesterol, decreased digestive fire, diabetes,
excess weight, oedema and other excess Kapha (mucous/fluid) conditions.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: 'Book Antiqua', serif; font-size: large;">If
taken in excess it may aggravate Vata or Pitta but if cooked with a little oil
and/or milk and some cooling spices (like cardamom), it can be transformed into a relatively tridoshic
grain.Finger millet is an wholesome food as it regulates all three humors and
is good for curing vitiated pitta.</span></li>
</ul>
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<span style="font-family: "Book Antiqua","serif";"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span><b><span style="font-family: "Book Antiqua","serif";"><span style="font-size: large;">What makes it Super
food…</span></span></b></div>
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<ul style="text-align: left;">
<li><span style="font-family: 'Book Antiqua', serif; font-size: large;">Ragi
is rich in vitamins, minerals and fiber. In comparison to rice and wheat it is
also quite high in protein.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: 'Book Antiqua', serif; font-size: large;">It
is particularly high in thiamine, calcium,riboflavin and iron and also the
essential amino acid, methionine, so is commonly used in Asia for feeding
growing infants.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: 'Book Antiqua', serif; font-size: large;">It
has a very low glycemic index, is alkaline and is gluten free.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: 'Book Antiqua', serif; font-size: large;">If consumed regularly, ragi could help in keeping degenerative
diseases, malnutrition and premature ageing at bay.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: 'Book Antiqua', serif; font-size: large;">Ragi is a great
source of calcium (at a whopping 344mg per 100g) compared to Brown rice, corn
and wheat.Ragi is low in fat and a fair source of protein.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: 'Book Antiqua', serif; font-size: large;">Regular consumption
of Ragi promotes optimum weight, controls blood sugar and promotes sound mind.</span></li>
</ul>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b><span style="font-family: "Book Antiqua","serif";"> Various
methods to use ragi In food..</span></b><b><span style="font-family: "Book Antiqua","serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><o:p></o:p></span></b></span></div>
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<ul style="text-align: left;">
<li><span style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Book Antiqua', serif; font-size: large;">Finger millet is processed by
milling, malting, fermentation, popping, and decortications.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: 'Book Antiqua', serif; font-size: large;">One
must add here that due to its outer covering, finger millet has to be ground
whole and used only as flour. But what could seem as a processing disadvantage
is actually a nutritional advantage as this increases its fiber content</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: 'Book Antiqua', serif; font-size: large; text-align: justify;">Finger millet is normally consumed
in the form of flour-based foods such as roti (pancake), mudde(stiff
porridge/dumpling),ambil(thinporridge)upma,vermicelli,pasta,sweets(halwa),noodles,</span><span style="font-family: 'Book Antiqua', serif; font-size: large; text-align: justify;">papad,soups,cakes,biscuits,dosas,
idlis and ladoos etc.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: 'Book Antiqua', serif; font-size: large;">In
Jharkhand and Bihar, where it is known as mandua, the finger millet flour is
used to make delicious pancakes, both savoury and sweetened with gud, while
Garhwalis prefer to make rotis out of it. One must mention here the special
“thag roti”, so called because the outer layer is made of wheat, with an inner
stuffing of millet. Given the heat generating property of finger millet, this
roti is specially made in winter and relished after a hard day’s work when
energies need to be replenished.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: 'Book Antiqua', serif; font-size: large;">The
grain is made into a fermented drink (or beer) in Nepal and in many parts of
Africa. The straw from finger millet is used as animal fodder.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: 'Book Antiqua', serif; font-size: large;">Ragi malt porridge is
made from finger millet which is soaked and shadow dried, then roasted and
ground. This preparation is boiled in water ,milk or yogurt.</span><span style="font-family: 'Book Antiqua', serif; font-size: large;"> In southern parts of India, it is a
recommended food, by doctors, for infants of six months and above because of
its high nutritional content. Homemade ragi malt is one of the most popular
infant foods till date.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: 'Book Antiqua', serif; font-size: large;">Puttu is a
traditional breakfast of Kerala, usually made with rice powder together with
coconut and steamed in a cylindrical steamer. The same preparation is also made
with ragi powder, which makes it more nutritious.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: 'Book Antiqua', serif; font-size: large;">Multi grain flour
preparation by combining wheat and finger millet in the ratio of 7:3 (wheat:
finger millet) is one of the simplest ways of incorporating ragi in the daily
diet as no Indian meal is complete without the Indian style bread or roti. Fortification
of finger millet in roti is very helpful in controlling glucose levels in
diabetic patients efficiently.</span></li>
</ul>
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<b><span style="font-family: "Book Antiqua","serif";"><span style="font-size: large;"> Magical uses of Ragi<o:p></o:p></span></span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Book Antiqua', serif; font-size: large;"> <u>Increases <o:p></o:p></u></span><span style="font-family: Book Antiqua, serif; font-size: large;"><u>Hemoglobin </u></span></div>
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<ul style="text-align: left;">
<li><span style="font-family: 'Book Antiqua', serif; font-size: large;">Ragi is an excellent
plant source of natural Iron. Its consumption helps in Anemia. Vitamin C increases
iron absorption. Sprouted ragi develops vitamin C in the process of sprouting,
therefore the iron in ragi becomes more bio available when consumed as sprouted
ragi flour or ragi malt.Include it in your daily diet and cut out artificial
iron tablets or tonics.</span></li>
</ul>
<span style="font-family: 'Book Antiqua', serif; font-size: large;"> <u>Promotes weight loss</u></span><br />
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<ul style="text-align: left;">
<li><span style="font-family: 'Book Antiqua', serif; font-size: large;">Ragi
contains an amino acid, Tryptophan which reduces appetite. It has a much higher
amount of dietary fiber compared to white rice and other grains. It is also a
low fat cereal and most of the fats are in the unsaturated form. This makes it
the best choice in grains for people trying to lose weight.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: 'Book Antiqua', serif; font-size: large;">The
bulkiness of the fibers and the slower digestion rate makes one feel fuller on
fewer calories and therefore helps prevent excess caloric consumption.</span></li>
</ul>
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<span style="font-family: "Book Antiqua","serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span><span style="font-family: 'Book Antiqua', serif; font-size: large;"><u>Good source of calcium</u></span></div>
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<ul style="text-align: left;">
<li><span style="font-family: 'Book Antiqua', serif; font-size: large;">When it comes to
calcium, there is no other plant source that comes even close to Ragi. It is
loaded with calcium and vitamin D that makes it a vital component for
increasing bone strength.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: 'Book Antiqua', serif; font-size: large;">Go natural, replace
over the counter calcium supplements with ragi porridge that works as a super
calcium supplier for growing children,aging people,pregnant ladies,working
women etc.It helps development of bones in children, maintains bone health and
prevents bone erosion in adults. It also works as an effective food to avert
Osteoporosis.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: 'Book Antiqua', serif; font-size: large;">Instead of popping a
pill, you can as well substitute that with ragi porridge. Boil a glass of water,
put a spoon of ragi flour into boiling water, add a little salt and let it
cool. Drink it with a pinch of salt and butter milk. This will not just cool
your body, but also gives you strength.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: 'Book Antiqua', serif; font-size: large;">Thus Ragi helps to
keep bone problems at bay and could reduce risk of fractures too. Consumption
of Ragi helps prevent arthritis and to recover from fractures faster.</span></li>
</ul>
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<span style="font-family: 'Book Antiqua', serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"> <u>Rich in fiber </u> <b> <o:p></o:p></b></span></span></div>
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<ul style="text-align: left;">
<li><span style="font-family: 'Book Antiqua', serif; font-size: large;">The high level of
dietary fiber in this cereal aids in proper digestion, normal bowel movement
and prevents constipation. The insoluble fibers present in Ragi assists
movement of food through the intestines while the insoluble fibers retain water
thereby easing the passage of waste. Include it to your daily diet in order to
protect your digestive system and avert risks of constipation and other
digestive disorders.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: 'Book Antiqua', serif; font-size: large;"> It
is not easily digestible, hence normally consumed by hard manual laborers. The
bran of finger millet causes indigestion hence it needs to be soaked, powdered
and the bran/husk is removed, then it is dried and consumed to prevent indigestion
problems</span></li>
</ul>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 22.5pt; vertical-align: baseline;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: 'Book Antiqua', serif;"> <u>Healthy
choice for vegans</u></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 22.5pt; vertical-align: baseline;">
</div>
<ul style="text-align: left;">
<li><span style="font-family: 'Book Antiqua', serif; font-size: large;">Millet
is one of those food grains which are loved by vegans and vegetarians because
of the high amount of protein in it. It helps to meet the daily protein
requirement from a complex carbohydrate than animal sources. It doesn’t contain
extra saturated fats and other unhealthy ingredients that the animal sources
contain.</span></li>
</ul>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: 'Book Antiqua', serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"> <u>Diabetes control </u><b><o:p></o:p></b></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 22.5pt; vertical-align: baseline;">
</div>
<ul style="text-align: left;">
<li><span style="font-family: 'Book Antiqua', serif; font-size: large;">The low glycemic
index in millet slows down the digestion process and keeps the blood sugar
level at a constant ratio. Millets increase insulin sensitivity for people
suffering with diabetes and also helps to control the sugar levels for
non-diabetics especially type2 diabetes. Thus, regular consumption of Ragi can
decrease fasting glucose by 32 percent and can eliminate insulin resistance by
43 percent. Hence, Ragi is very beneficial for diabetic patients.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: 'Book Antiqua', serif; font-size: large;">Regular consumption
of Ragi has been found to reduce the risk of Diabetes because of its
high content of dietary fibers and polyphenols. It also has a low glycemic
index that makes it an ideal snack to prevent late night food cravings and help
to maintain blood sugar within safe range.</span></li>
</ul>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: 'Book Antiqua', serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"> <u>Mental relaxation</u><b><o:p></o:p></b></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 22.5pt; vertical-align: baseline;">
</div>
<ul style="text-align: left;">
<li><span style="font-family: 'Book Antiqua', serif; font-size: large;">The abundance of
antioxidants, mainly Tryptophan and amino acids in Ragi help in fighting damage
causing free radicals and reducing oxidative stress.One amazing benefit of Ragi
is that it helps in relaxing the body naturally.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: 'Book Antiqua', serif; font-size: large;">It is found to be
beneficial in conditions of anxiety, depression, hypertension, migraine and insomnia.
Tryptophan in millet raises the serotonin level in the body which helps with
stress reduction. A cup of millet porridge every night can help you to get
sound and peaceful sleep.</span></li>
</ul>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: 'Book Antiqua', serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"> <u>Lowers triglycerides</u><b><o:p></o:p></b></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 22.5pt; vertical-align: baseline;">
</div>
<ul style="text-align: left;">
<li><span style="font-family: 'Book Antiqua', serif; font-size: large;">Consumption of millet
regularly helps to decrease triglyceride levels in the body.It
thins the blood to prevent blood platelet clumping, thereby reducing the risk
of sunstroke and coronary artery disorder.</span></li>
</ul>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: 'Book Antiqua', serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"> <u>Lowers bad cholesterol
</u><b><o:p></o:p></b></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
</div>
<ul style="text-align: left;">
<li><span style="font-family: 'Book Antiqua', serif; font-size: large;">Vitamin
B in millet helps to break down carbohydrates and fat more efficiently. It
reduces homo cysteine level in the blood to prevent cholesterol from bonding and
forming deposits. Niacin prevents cholesterol from getting into the blood
stream and raises high density lipoprotein (HDL) in the blood. This protects
the blood vessels from atherosclerosis and hemorrhage.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: 'Book Antiqua', serif; font-size: large;">Ragi has been proved
to work wonders in bringing down blood cholesterol levels and is one of the
best home remedies for heart health. It controls the cholesterol level by
reducing plaque formation and preventing blockage of blood vessels thereby
cutting down the risk of stroke and other heart diseases. The key amino acids
Lecithin and Methionine present in the cereal helps in lowering cholesterol by
extracting and cutting out excess fat from the liver.</span></li>
</ul>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 22.5pt; vertical-align: baseline;">
<span style="font-family: 'Book Antiqua', serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"> <u>Reduces
blood pressure</u><b><o:p></o:p></b></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 22.5pt; vertical-align: baseline;">
</div>
<ul style="text-align: left;">
<li><span style="font-family: 'Book Antiqua', serif; font-size: large;">Magnesium in millet
relaxes the muscles that line the inside of the arterial wall, which helps to
reduce blood pressure.</span></li>
</ul>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: 'Book Antiqua', serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"> <u>Reverts skin aging</u><b><o:p></o:p></b></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 22.5pt; vertical-align: baseline;">
</div>
<ul style="text-align: left;">
<li><span style="font-family: 'Book Antiqua', serif; font-size: large;">The high amount of
antioxidants present in millets fights free radicals present in the body which
slows down the ageing process.Lipoic, an antioxidant found in millet, produces
valuable anti-inflammatory results by increasing cell metabolism and
circulation. This anti-inflammatory property increases blood circulation in the
body to reduce acne and fine lines on the skin. Consuming millet helps to
retain the natural moisture content in the skin. It makes dull looking, dry
skin, healthier and fresher.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: 'Book Antiqua', serif; font-size: large;">Millets are rich in
Vitamin E, which is an amazing vitamin for the skin. It penetrates through the
layers of the skin, assisting the body with the natural wound healing process.
It even lubricates the skin and forms a protective layer that serves to keep
the free radicals away from the wound. </span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: 'Book Antiqua', serif; font-size: large;">Scar tissue has a different cell
structure than that of healthy skin, making it rigid. Alium, an antioxidant
found in millet, boosts the blood flow to scar tissue. It blends in the
development of new skin, minimizing the scars. It increases the speed of the
skin repair system, firms the skin and prevents further damage.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: 'Book Antiqua', serif; font-size: large;">Antioxidants in
millets fight stress and neutralize free radicals in the body. This helps
reverse the signs of ageing on the skin. It maintains proper health of the skin
by rejuvenating skin cells. Ubiquinone in millet is also used in beauty
products to reduce wrinkles on the face. Ragi not only helps in maintaining
proper health and keeping diseases at bay, but also works wonders for
maintaining youthfulness and vitality of skin by blocking premature aging. Ragi
can be used to be the most effective natural anti aging drink. </span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: 'Book Antiqua', serif; font-size: large;">The vital amino
acids Methionine and Lysine present in the cereal helps in creation and
maintenance of collagen. It is a substance that supports the skin tissues to
make it supple and lively thereby making it less prone to wrinkles and sagging.</span></li>
</ul>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: 'Book Antiqua', serif;"> <u>Pregnancy</u></span><b><span style="font-family: "Book Antiqua","serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">
</span></b><b><span style="font-family: "Book Antiqua","serif";"><o:p></o:p></span></b></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 22.5pt; vertical-align: baseline;">
</div>
<ul style="text-align: left;">
<li><span style="font-family: 'Book Antiqua', serif; font-size: large;">Pregnant and
lactating women are advised to consume Ragi as it helps to increase the
production of breast milk in the body. This will enable the mother to feed the
child for a longer period of time.</span><span style="font-family: 'Book Antiqua', serif; font-size: large;">Ragi
proves to be a great cereal for pregnant and lactating women due to its high
calcium and iron content.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: 'Book Antiqua', serif; font-size: large;">It’s</span><span style="font-family: 'Book Antiqua', serif; font-size: large;"> rich in folic acid which helps in
brain development of baby and calcium in ragi will helps in bone development of
child.Ragi is also rich in dietary fiber and hence bowel friendly.</span></li>
</ul>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 22.5pt; vertical-align: baseline;">
<span style="font-family: "Book Antiqua","serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span><span style="font-family: 'Book Antiqua', serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><u>Improves lactation</u></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 22.5pt; vertical-align: baseline;">
</div>
<ul style="text-align: left;">
<li><span style="font-family: 'Book Antiqua', serif; font-size: large;">Ragi is a great
source of nutrition for new mothers as it help in improving the hemoglobin
levels. Lactating mothers are suggested to include Ragi in their daily diet in
order to improve milk production. </span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: 'Book Antiqua', serif; font-size: large;">It also enriches the milk with all the
essential minerals for the body like iron, calcium and vital amino acids that
is extremely important for the child as well as the mother.</span></li>
</ul>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: 'Book Antiqua', serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"> <u>Child growth and
weaning</u><b><o:p></o:p></b></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
</div>
<ul style="text-align: left;">
<li><span style="font-family: Book Antiqua, serif; font-size: large;">Due
to its high calcium content and easy digestibility, its grains are malted and
used for weaning babies.babies. Ragi helps to fulfill the necessary mineral requirement
of growing children </span><span style="font-family: 'Book Antiqua', serif; font-size: large;">and
therefore helps in proper growth and development.</span></li>
</ul>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: 'Book Antiqua', serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"> <u>Promotes hair growth</u><b><o:p></o:p></b></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 22.5pt; vertical-align: baseline;">
</div>
<ul style="text-align: left;">
<li><span style="font-family: 'Book Antiqua', serif; font-size: large;">Millets are rich in
protein, a nutrient highly recommended for people suffering from hair loss.
Healthy hair requires sufficient intake of protein, as most of the hair itself
is made of protein. The protein found within hair cells is known as keratin,
which is directly responsible for the composition of each strand of hair. Lack
of protein can lead to severe hair loss. Thus, an adequate intake of millets
strengthens hair, making it stronger and less prone to breakage.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: 'Book Antiqua', serif; font-size: large;">Magnesium in millets
reduces inflammation in the scalp to treat scalp conditions like eczema,
psoriasis and dandruff. Millet is also beneficial for treating premature
balding. Consuming millet will help in ameliorating metabolic syndrome, a
health condition which causes premature balding. Millets promote the
circulation of blood circulation in the scalp and promote hair growth.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: 'Book Antiqua', serif; font-size: large;">Stress increases
cortisol level in the body leading to massive hair shedding. Magnesium present
in millets control hair loss by reducing cortisol level in the body. Premature
graying of hair is caused mainly due to oxidation of the tissues. The potent
antioxidants in millets effectively prevent the corrosion of tissues, thereby
reducing the possibility of premature graying.</span></li>
</ul>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: 'Book Antiqua', serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><b> </b><u>Women Friendly </u> <b> <o:p></o:p></b></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
</div>
<ul style="text-align: left;">
<li><span style="font-family: 'Book Antiqua', serif; font-size: large;">Menopause,the
phase of life which no woman can escape from. Menopause brings with it a great deal of
irritation and annoyance which is mainly due to hormonal imbalance. The intensity
of menopausal symptoms experienced by every woman varies, depending upon her
tolerance level and her other health and nutritional issues.Intake of food like
ragi will not only provide nourishment but also prevents osteoporosis which is
a very commonly faced problem during menopause. It also helps to keep your mind
and body calm.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: 'Book Antiqua', serif; font-size: large;">Because of its high
level of magnesium, millet is a great food for women who suffer from unbearable
pain and cramps during their menstrual cycle.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: 'Book Antiqua', serif; font-size: large;">Research has shown that
calcium in millets helps reduce irritability and nervousness to some extent. It has also
been found to be particularly effective in alleviating symptoms associated with
PMS (pre-menstrual stress)</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: 'Book Antiqua', serif; font-size: large;">Food
having low glycemic index and high fiber content is recommended in PCOD. Ragi
consumption fulfills both the requirements and it will also control weight gain
in the same condition.</span></li>
</ul>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: 'Book Antiqua', serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"> <u>Geriatric tonic</u><b><o:p></o:p></b></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
</div>
<ul style="text-align: left;">
<li><span style="font-family: 'Book Antiqua', serif; font-size: large;">The
Ragi based foods are highly suited for elderly due to their high calcium and
iron content. </span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: 'Book Antiqua', serif; font-size: large;">Chewing efficiency decreases in old age hence this can be one
more reason ragi is recommended in old age as person needs less efforts in
chewing ragi if given in the form of porridge.</span></li>
</ul>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: 'Book Antiqua', serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"> <u>Gluten free food</u><b><o:p></o:p></b></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
</div>
<ul style="text-align: left;">
<li><span style="font-family: 'Book Antiqua', serif; font-size: large;">Celiac
is a disease which damages the small intestine and interferes with the
absorption of nutrients from food. People who suffer from this disease cannot
tolerate gluten. This makes millet a perfect food for them since it is
completely gluten-free. It is a wonderful grain alternative for people who are
gluten-sensitive. Ragi malt is good for those allergic to milk and dairy
products. It is one of the least allergic and most digestible grains.</span></li>
</ul>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: 'Book Antiqua', serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"> <u>Lowers the risk of
gall stones</u><b><o:p></o:p></b></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 22.5pt; vertical-align: baseline;">
</div>
<ul style="text-align: left;">
<li><span style="font-family: 'Book Antiqua', serif; font-size: large;">Consuming foods high
in fiber also prevent the formation of gallstones, especially in women.
Insoluble fiber speeds up intestinal transit time and reduces the secretion of
bile acids that contribute to the gallstone formation. Several researchers have
found that people who consume high amounts of soluble and insoluble fiber have
13% lower risk of developing gallstones when compared to those who don’t.</span></li>
</ul>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: 'Book Antiqua', serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"> <u>Fights diseases/Prevents
cancer</u><b><o:p></o:p></b></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 22.5pt; vertical-align: baseline;">
</div>
<ul style="text-align: left;">
<li><span style="font-family: 'Book Antiqua', serif; font-size: large;">Millet contains
several health friendly nutrients that are required for proper functioning of
the body. Iron and copper content in millet is needed for the production of
blood cells and to improve blood oxygenation.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: 'Book Antiqua', serif; font-size: large;">It also contains phosphorus which
is conducive to control blood pressure. These minerals, along with the
phyto-nutrients can help build a formidable defense against all types of
diseases and cancers. <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwOuMJFeXHnMBSQeHF8D18hyphenhyphenjK0JLsWPYYhvkVc66s5Bqh1li8GnWlrg9NEasZ0uZ-9Yv_7c4DeLvjBIngEkuBk78BfQxhPgCmYJivq61wZ57yYacXels8WN0lL8NjMT3hL_iTahrR-34w/s1600/Finger-millet-bioversity-international.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="267" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwOuMJFeXHnMBSQeHF8D18hyphenhyphenjK0JLsWPYYhvkVc66s5Bqh1li8GnWlrg9NEasZ0uZ-9Yv_7c4DeLvjBIngEkuBk78BfQxhPgCmYJivq61wZ57yYacXels8WN0lL8NjMT3hL_iTahrR-34w/s400/Finger-millet-bioversity-international.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
</span></li>
</ul>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: 'Book Antiqua', serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"> <u>Conclusion</u><b><o:p></o:p></b></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
</div>
<ul style="text-align: left;">
<li><span style="font-family: 'Book Antiqua', serif; font-size: large;">With
its multiple benefits, ragi, the “forgotten food”, always favored by hard working
labor classes across India, is fast becoming a sought after Super Food. The
finger millet has indeed covered an amazing journey; it started by being
considered a coarse grain, especially from the colonial times, to becoming
today, in post-colonial times, a grain duly recognized for all it has to offer
ecologically, nutritionally and gastronomically, as a true super food, which
packs in a powerful punch in its tiny grains.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: 'Book Antiqua', serif; font-size: large;">The recent trend of
zero figure and lean structure has led to people turning towards fat free
diets, vegetables, cereal based meal plans and multi-grain recipes. But most of
the packed, ready to eat cereals that are available in the market are loaded
with gluten's, sugar and High Fructose Corn Syrup. In order to stay healthy and
have an envious figure, it is important to choose even your health foods
wisely. It’s best to opt for 100% natural and unrefined cereal like Ragi.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: 'Book Antiqua', serif; font-size: large;">Excessive
dependence on processed and ready to eat foods has increased the risk of
chronic diseases in modern urban life. Ragi is more of a rural food that hardly
gets prominence in urban diet. But it is high time we renovate our eating
habits, go back to the basics and include natural cereals like Ragi in our
daily diet in order to have healthy and disease free lives in the long run.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: 'Book Antiqua', serif; font-size: large;">It takes only a few
weeks for our body to adapt to new kind of food. Be a little patient and soon
you’ll start liking the taste of millets, if you don’t already. Incorporate
millets into your daily food intake in some form or the other and experience
the magical health benefits.</span></li>
</ul>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 22.5pt; vertical-align: baseline;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: 'Book Antiqua', serif;"> <u>Note
</u></span><span style="font-family: "Book Antiqua","serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 22.5pt; vertical-align: baseline;">
</div>
<ul style="text-align: left;">
<li><span style="font-family: 'Book Antiqua', serif; font-size: large;">It is an extremely
nutritional cereal that possesses an overall health. However, high consumption
of Ragi is avoided as its high intake could increase quantity oxalic acid in
the body; therefore, it is not advisable to patients having kidney stones. </span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: 'Book Antiqua', serif; font-size: large;">If
at all constipation is encountered in some people. In order to overcome this black raisins are soaked in hot water and can be consumed along with finger millet
porridge.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: 'Book Antiqua', serif; font-size: large;">Millet contains a
small amount of goiterogenic substance which restricts iodine absorption in the
body leading to goiter and other thyroid complications. Goitrogens in foods are
usually reduced by cooking. But in the case of millets, cooking or heating actually
increase the goiterogenic effect. Hence, people suffering from hypothyroidism
should be careful with their millet intake.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: 'Book Antiqua', serif; font-size: large;">Two-three
tablespoons of Ragi flour is safe to consume three times a week in the above
conditions as per expert advice.</span></li>
</ul>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 22.5pt; vertical-align: baseline;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "Book Antiqua","serif";"> Stay healthy !</span><span style="font-family: "Book Antiqua","serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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Vaishali G Kamathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13368641312089476984noreply@blogger.com20tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4746605527351922533.post-56237341178693574622015-04-22T15:23:00.000+05:302017-11-02T21:07:29.766+05:308 Ayurvedic principles for eating food<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<div class="MsoNormal">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivtsi-OKkfllNcWcIZUaImsOw1EurzTWrUmRJBRIC0YN1Qxc1T_nMnWAwLlQ1wL3B7zFtpaYh2-nqOnrGfDg6E4I8Hc6QEff64tu-elLQyd6wdBfxm1UB5Z8VqvbriQBJmp9bMQ3MM6NGv/s1600/4+(1).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivtsi-OKkfllNcWcIZUaImsOw1EurzTWrUmRJBRIC0YN1Qxc1T_nMnWAwLlQ1wL3B7zFtpaYh2-nqOnrGfDg6E4I8Hc6QEff64tu-elLQyd6wdBfxm1UB5Z8VqvbriQBJmp9bMQ3MM6NGv/s640/4+(1).jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "andalus" , serif;">The act of eating is life-giving. The process of
eating, according to ayurveda, is something pious and important for the
development of consciousness as well as our physical health. Healthy mind
resides in a healthy body. And therefore Vedas say that “We shall regard our
body as the temple of our soul and maintain its sanctity and health by
observing self-restraint and punctuality in our routine”. The purpose of food
is to sustain healthy and harmonious functioning of the body system, the
physical medium of our life, to enable us to perform our duties towards God and
His creation. Food is not meant to satiate the greed of our tongue or stomach.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "andalus" , serif;"><br /></span></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "andalus" , serif;">One of the most important concepts of Ayurveda
is that of the Agni, or digestive fire, in the body. It is believed that in
order to achieve optimal health, one must have a healthy, powerful Agni
(digestive fire)When our digestive ability, or agni, is strong, we create
healthy tissues, eliminate waste products efficiently, and produce a subtle
essence called ojas. Ojas, which is a Sanskrit word that means strength, can be
envisioned as the innermost vital essence.According to Ayurveda, ojas is the
basis for clarity of perception, physical strength, and immunity. On the other
hand, if our agni is weakened through improper eating, lack of activity,
negative emotional energy or unhealthy daily routine, our digestion will be
hampered and we produce toxins that get stored in the body. According to Ayurveda,
this toxic residue, known as ama, is the root cause of disease.</span></div>
</div>
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<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "andalus" , serif;"><br /></span></div>
</div>
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<span style="font-family: "andalus" , serif;">An appropriate diet can not only enhance
wellness but can also be used to neutralize toxins in the body. According to
the science of Ayurveda, the root cause of any disease or malfunction is the
accumulation of toxic substances(Ama, i.e. the improperly digested food
particles) in the body.The toxic accumulation depletes the cells of its oxygen
and energy and promotes ill health.Ayurveda lays down extensive guidelines for
a healthy lifestyle.According to ayurveda ahara(food) is nothing but which maintains the
equilibrium of body, promotes health, preventing body from diseases.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
</div>
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<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "andalus" , serif;">Ayurveda gives immense importance to diet, it
believes that health of a person depends on healthy digestine system and
healthy digestive system depends on healthy eating habits. Ayurveda considers 8
factors(Ashta aahar vidhi vishesh ayatana) to be taken into consideration
before consuming food.These Ashta aahar vidhi vishesh aytana are mentioned in Charak samhita.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
</div>
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<span style="font-family: "andalus" , serif;"><br /></span></div>
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<b style="font-family: andalus, serif;"> </b></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<b style="font-family: andalus, serif;"> 1.Prakriti (Basic character of food)</b></div>
</div>
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</div>
<ul style="text-align: left;">
<li style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: "andalus" , serif;">Each and every food (Ahara) has its individual
natural characteristics. Characters like lightness, heaviness, moisture,
dryness are the factors which make changes in the food properties.</span></li>
<li style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: "andalus" , serif;">Before consuming any food item we should take
into account basic character of the food item as it defines how the food will
be digested and assimilated in our body.</span></li>
<li style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: "andalus" , serif;">For example: Nature of bengal gram(chana dal)
is heaviness due its nature during digestion process it will take more time,
but green gram(moong dal) is light in nature so it will be digested little quickly,
so when a person’s digestive power is poor if he takes black gram it will cause
problem in the digestive system, hence while consuming food we should see the
nature of the food.</span></li>
</ul>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<b style="font-family: andalus, serif;"> </b></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<b style="font-family: andalus, serif;"> 2.Karan (Preparation)</b></div>
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<ul style="text-align: left;">
<li style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: "andalus" , serif;">Karan is the process to modify the natural
properties of substances. This process is done in various ways like heating,
churning, boiling, frying, roasting etc. due to this process nature of the food
can be changed like the food which is light in nature can become heavier.</span></li>
<li style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: "andalus" , serif;">For e.g. we cannot consume rice as it is because
of its heavy nature but once it’s cooked with water it becomes light and easy
to digest.</span></li>
</ul>
<b style="font-family: andalus, serif;"> </b><br />
<b style="font-family: andalus, serif;"> 3.Sanyog (Combinations)</b><br />
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</div>
<ul style="text-align: left;">
<li style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: "andalus" , serif;">Basically combinations can be compatible and
incompatible</span></li>
<li style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: "andalus" , serif;">Every food has three characteristics, ie, its taste
(rasa),Potency (virya) and its post-digestive effect (vipaka).Virudha ahara
is the combination of food that has different taste, energy and post digestive
effect that confuses the system and either overloads or diminishes the agni
such that the digestion is affected. Whereas Combination of foods will help to
enhance qualities of food, when two foods combined together can produce some
special effects.</span></li>
<li style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: "andalus" , serif;">Each type of food group has its own specific
enzymes needed to break down that particular food, as well as a specific time
frame that will be needed to complete its digestion. When you begin the mixing
of food that possess different time and enzyme needs, confusion manifests
leading to undigested food, toxic build-up and fermentation in the gut.</span></li>
<li style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: "andalus" , serif;">Some foods take a lot longer to digest than
others.If you eat slow-to-digest and fast-to-digest foods together,the
faster-digesting food will have to sit and wait for the slower one fermenting
and petrifying.</span></li>
<li style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: "andalus" , serif;">Foods may be incompatible because they create a
negative reaction in the body, generate additional water in the body(called
kleda).If your digestion is strong, you feel healthy,and full of energy, it
means your body has the resources to deal with slightly more difficult food
combos then having incompatible foods rarely won’t lead to much problem.Long
term use of incompatible food leads to skin disorders,Gastro intestinal Disorders,
anemia, leucoderma hyperacidity impotence etc. hence should be avoided.</span></li>
<li style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: "andalus" , serif;">Benefits of combining compatible food are improved
energy levels, Better skin, Better absorption of nutrients, Reduction of
bloating and gas and more regular elimination</span></li>
</ul>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWkaGyAjSmWMfxfafK0dXTkZHC80ZB7hczVGR6dbtLGE2wXr7WfvEcdw4wMxe1Z-kwHYVegR2WKeAhnHPa1Fuj8tdLqw7ccyXd7ZAgN1Vhs6mGa6-batg9a0gZVOZZB6EnEkn0mcEB4oAA/s1600/2+(2).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="328" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWkaGyAjSmWMfxfafK0dXTkZHC80ZB7hczVGR6dbtLGE2wXr7WfvEcdw4wMxe1Z-kwHYVegR2WKeAhnHPa1Fuj8tdLqw7ccyXd7ZAgN1Vhs6mGa6-batg9a0gZVOZZB6EnEkn0mcEB4oAA/s640/2+(2).jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "andalus" , serif;"> </span><b style="font-family: Andalus, serif;">Incompatible food combinations such as </b></div>
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<ul style="text-align: left;">
<li><span style="font-family: "andalus" , serif;">Taking milk, fish, and
honey together.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "andalus" , serif;">Taking honey, ghee in
equal quantity.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "andalus" , serif;">Milk and Curd, these
things or any food items made of these two should not be eaten together.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "andalus" , serif;">Similar to milk and
curd, milk and jaggery also does not go together.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "andalus" , serif;">Onion and milk is
another item which is dangerous if taken together. Many problems of skin happen
because of this combo.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "andalus" , serif;">Except amla (Indian
gooseberry) no sour fruit should be taken with milk. Even mangoes with milk
should be taken only of the mangoes are completely ripe and sweet.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "andalus" , serif;">Milk followed by fruits
and vice versa.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "andalus" , serif;">Sour substance along
with milk.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "andalus" , serif;">Milk with salt</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "andalus" , serif;">Wheat preparations in
gingelly oil (Tila taila)</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "andalus" , serif;">Hot drinks after
alcohol, curd or honey.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "andalus" , serif;">Cold and hot substances
together</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "andalus" , serif;">Banana with curd and
butter milk</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "andalus" , serif;">Chicken with curd</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "andalus" , serif;">Ghee kept in bronze
vessel</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "andalus" , serif;">Radish with jaggery</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "andalus" , serif;">Fish with jaggery or
sugar</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "andalus" , serif;">Milk with meat</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "andalus" , serif;">Cheese and fruit</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "andalus" , serif;">Consumption of
stale/leftover food should be minimized for good health. It should never be
mixed with fresh food as refrigerated food loses its vitality and becomes heavy
and difficult to digest. </span></li>
</ul>
<b style="font-family: andalus, serif;"> Compatible food combinations such as</b><br />
<ul style="text-align: left;">
<li>Milk with sugar</li>
<li><span style="font-family: "andalus" , serif;">Milk with turmeric</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "andalus" , serif;">Ginger with lemon</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "andalus" , serif;">Panchamrut</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "andalus" , serif;">Caffeine, stresses the
adrenal glands. An Ayurvedic anti-dote is to add a pinch of cardamom or
cinnamon to your coffee to minimize the impact on the adrenals.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "andalus" , serif;">Honey, equal quantities
by weight of ghee and honey are bad combinations, but mixing in a ratio of 2:1
(two parts ghee to 1 part honey) is fine.</span></li>
</ul>
<span style="font-family: "andalus" , serif;"><b> </b></span><br />
<div>
<span style="font-family: "andalus" , serif;"><b> Food for all</b></span><br />
<div>
<span style="font-family: "andalus" , serif;"> Certain food articles in
Ayurveda are beneficial for all types of prakritis.</span><br />
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</div>
<ul style="text-align: left;">
<li><span style="font-family: "andalus" , serif;">Red shali rice (rice
with red colored bran) among grains</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "andalus" , serif;">Green gram or moong dal
among pulses</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "andalus" , serif;">Directly collected rain
water among waters</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "andalus" , serif;">Cow milk among milks</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "andalus" , serif;">Ghee from cow milk among
ghee</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "andalus" , serif;">Sesame oil among oils</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "andalus" , serif;">Grapes among fruits</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "andalus" , serif;">Rock salt among salts</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "andalus" , serif;">Ginger among bulbs</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "andalus" , serif;">Barley, wheat, honey,
amla, pomegranate, amaranth, and snake gourd among other food</span></li>
</ul>
<b style="font-family: Andalus, serif; text-indent: -0.25in;"> </b></div>
<div>
<b style="font-family: Andalus, serif; text-indent: -0.25in;"> 4.Desha(Habitat)</b><br />
<ul style="text-align: left;">
</ul>
<ul style="text-align: left;">
<li style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: "andalus" , serif;">It includes the region where that particular
dietary ingredient is grown as well as the region to which person consuming
that dietary ingredient belong. It is of extreme importance as locally produced
foods are easily assimilated in the body.</span></li>
<li style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: "andalus" , serif;">The concept of local food which is now very
popular in western countries was known and practiced since thousands of years
in ayurveda. The place where food is grown can also make changes in the
qualities of food. Factors like soil, climate, and water are plays role in changing
properties of food.</span></li>
<li style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: "andalus" , serif;">A local farmers market is best as they have
local produce which is in season and your body is acclimated to that type of
food. Eating foods that are brought in from all over the world creates many
issues such as allergies, digestive problems, skin toxicity and constipation.
Eat local fresh foods and avoid problems.</span></li>
<li style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: "andalus" , serif;">Example: </span><span style="font-family: "andalus" , serif;">A substance which grown in desert will be dry in
nature whereas a</span><span style="font-family: "andalus" , serif;"> substance which grown in marshy or watery
region will be cold (sheeta), moist (snigdha).</span></li>
</ul>
<b style="font-family: Andalus, serif;"> </b></div>
<div>
<b style="font-family: Andalus, serif;"> 5. Rashi(Quantity)</b><br />
<ul style="text-align: left;">
<li style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: "andalus" , serif;">There are two types of quantity:</span></li>
<li style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: "andalus" , serif;">Sarvagraha (Total quantity of food consumed)</span></li>
<li style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: "andalus" , serif;">Parigraha (Quantity of each particular food
item)</span></li>
<li style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: "andalus" , serif;">Ayurveda agrees that you should fill 1/3 of the
belly with food, 1/3 with liquid and leave the remaining 1/3 available to allow
movement in the digestive process. This in turn will keep your digestive fire
strong and robust and leave you feeling energized after meals. Howsoever
nourishing or healthy the food may be; it would cause harm if eaten in excess.
So, be cautious about the quantity of your diet. If food is taken proper way
& in a right quantity, individual will feel lighter & satisfied, Will
be able to breath, talk, walk easily; Indriyas (senses) will become sharp.</span></li>
<li style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: "andalus" , serif;">When you overeat you are greatly over-taxing the
digestive tract by forcing too much food at once, causing clogged channels,
indigestion and toxic build up. Due to the lack of enzymes available and
excessive acids being released, overeating can lead to gas formation, bloating,
acid reflux, lethargy, heaviness and general colic and discomfort. When done on
a consistent basis, the stomach lining will begin to stretch out leading to the
need of more food each meal to feel that feeling of satisfaction. This in turn
continues the overeating cycle causing weight gain and a slow, sluggish
digestive fire. Eating in excess of the required amount produces ama and leads
to disorders like obesity, hypertension, diabetes, joint disorders and heart
diseases.</span></li>
<li style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: "andalus" , serif;">Light foods such as green gram dal, dalia,
khichdi, plain curds, rice all stimulate the digestive fire (agni). They are
harmless foods and can be consumed in quantities till it satisfies one’s
appetite. On the other hand, heavy foods such as sesame, nuts, flour
preparations, black gram, meats, fish and eggs are heavy to digest </span></li>
</ul>
<b style="font-family: andalus, serif;"> </b></div>
<div>
<b style="font-family: andalus, serif;"> 6.Kaal (Time)</b><br />
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</div>
<ul style="text-align: left;">
<li style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: "andalus" , serif;">Time is with respect to disease state, season
and food timings.</span></li>
<li style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: "andalus" , serif;">Time also denotes diseased state of person, when
person is suffering from any ailment his digestive power tends to diminish for
e.g. Milk is avoided in acute conditions of fever.</span></li>
<li style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: "andalus" , serif;">One should consider season also while having
food, because if the food which is hot in potency consumed in summer season
(grishma ruthu) and food which is cold in nature, having it in winter season
(hemant ruthu) will cause various health issues.</span></li>
<li style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: "andalus" , serif;">Agni, the digestive fire, is the strongest at noon;
hence the biggest meal of the day should be eaten at lunchtime. Meat, dairy and
other heavy foods should be taken at this time only, as the dinner should
contain much lighter foods and smaller portions. As the sun goes down, so does
our Agni. Our organs get tired after a day’s work and hence dinner should be
simple as the night fades. A late dinner can interfere with the sleep as the
body is working on burning off toxins and continues digestion.</span></li>
<li style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: "andalus" , serif;">There should be a gap of three hours between two
meals as it affects digestion. At the same time, food should be consumed within
six hours of earlier food intake. Therefore ideal time to have food after 3
hours of previous meal and before the completion of 6 hours. Eating at an
improper time or before the lightness of the body felt will lead to large
number of disease.</span></li>
<li style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: "andalus" , serif;">This means that you should eat 3 meals a day, at
regular times, consistently each day. This way the food is easily digested and
keeps the body strong and energetic. In any case, be regular in the timings of
taking your meals; avoid eating late in the night. One of the major causes of
metabolic disorders and varieties of diseases caused thereby is that people
keep watching TV and eat very late in the night. Remember that it takes about 8
to 11 hours for proper natural digestion of food.</span></li>
<li style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: "andalus" , serif;">When we eat slowly, by properly chewing, we eat
the right quantity of food. Eating slowly gives enough time for our body to
signal the right quantity of food. It also helps us feel satisfied rather than
just feeling full. It’s advised that you take a 20-30 minutes break for your
meals, relax and enjoy the food you have.</span></li>
</ul>
<b style="font-family: andalus, serif;"> </b><br />
<b style="font-family: andalus, serif;"> 7.Upayoga sanstha (Rules for eating)</b><br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "andalus" , serif;"><b><br /></b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "andalus" , serif;"> </span><b style="font-family: andalus, serif;">Dos</b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
</div>
<ul style="text-align: left;">
<li style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: "andalus" , serif;">In Ayurveda, emphasis is laid on the fact that
food should only be consumed once the food taken earlier is digested. This is
experienced by A pure feeling not acid or pungent taste, Feeling of enthusiasm,
Proper passage of urine, flatus and feces, Feeling of lightness in the body,
Feeling of hunger and thirst.</span></li>
<li style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: "andalus" , serif;">Wash the face hands and feet before meal. Dine
in an isolated neat and clean place in pleasant environment with the
affectionate persons in sitting position.</span></li>
<li style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: "andalus" , serif;">Take your food gracefully in a calm state of
mind, paying full attention to eating; every morsel should be chewed properly.
Food should be revered like the prasada (offerings made to the Deity).</span></li>
<li style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: "andalus" , serif;">Drink sufficient water while eating, this helps
digestion process! Every person needs a different quantity of water intake
based on his constitution, work nature and climatic conditions. Drinking too
much and too less of water is harmful. Enough water should be taken before and
after the meals. Water is like nectar for our vital functions. Drink at least a
glass full of water before taking food. Don’t drink more than half a bowl of
water while eating. Drink sufficient water after about an hour of taking the
meals. This helps in proper digestion.</span></li>
<li style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: "andalus" , serif;">Food which has undergone proper and favorable
processing (proper action cooking and spicing to make it digestible), endowed
with beneficial and favorite taste, delicious, clean, warm, and fresh is
wholesome.</span></li>
<li style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: "andalus" , serif;">Ayurveda says that eating while sitting on the
floor with crossed legs helps in better for digestion of the food.</span></li>
<li style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: "andalus" , serif;">It is very much recommended in Ayurveda that you
take a rest for about 20 to 30 minutes after your morning/noon meals.</span><span style="font-family: "andalus" , serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: "andalus" , serif;">It is also okay to take a nap if you are
feeling sleepy then lie down on your left side in bed. However, you should not
rest for at least 2 hours after dinner.</span><span style="font-family: "andalus" , serif;">
</span><span style="font-family: "andalus" , serif;">This is because the sun has gone down and so the digestive fire is
dormant at night.</span><span style="font-family: "andalus" , serif;"> </span></li>
<li style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: "andalus" , serif;">On a positive note, one of the most helpful ways
to increase your digestive force is to take a short walk after each meal. This
practice will help get the food moving along while increasing your metabolic
rate and strengthening your digestive fire. This is also extremely helpful in
regulating your blood sugar levels and controlling blood sugar spikes.</span></li>
<li style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: "andalus" , serif;">Food should be Unctuous in nature; unctuous food
will help to pacifying vata dosha and increase Digestive Power. On other hand
Dry or Extreme Unctuousness should not to be consumed; this type of food
inhibits the process of digestion. Dry food aggravates vata dosha and which
cause hampering of the digestive power. And Extreme Unctuousness food is heavy
to digest which will take more time and energy. So sometimes after taking heavy
meal or extreme unctuous food we feel lazy or feeling drowsy.</span></li>
<li style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: "andalus" , serif;">Consume at least 2 teaspoons cow ghee everyday
Ghee, also known as clarified butter, is highly revered and has been used
medicinally in Ayurveda for thousands of years. It stimulates the Agni
(digestive fire) and increases both the absorption and assimilation of
nutrients. Ghee contains anti-aging properties and is used as a rejuvenate</span><span style="font-family: "andalus" , serif;"> in
Ayurveda, working to deeply nourish the body on a cellular level. It enhances
energy, immunity, memory and intellect. Ghee is even used to aid in cleanses,
as it works to lubricate the tissues and pull out deep-rooted toxins in the
body.</span></li>
<li style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: "andalus" , serif;">Eat only food prepared by loving hands, in a
loving way. The energy of the cook is always in the food. Avoid eating food
prepared with resentment. We take in not only the food, but also the emotions
of the chef.</span></li>
<li style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: "andalus" , serif;">To have
fast at least once in a week with foods lighter to digest.</span></li>
<li style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: "andalus" , serif;">Food habits & Eating schedules should be
regular! As far as possible eat the same time every day. The stomach likes to
be on schedule.</span></li>
<li style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: "andalus" , serif;">Eating should be slow, peaceful & with
complete concentration on your food only. Did you know that digestion takes up
to 60% of our daily metabolism? Most of the energy and fluids used for
digestion are supplied through the blood. Thus, digestion is only as strong as
the blood and circulation to digestive organs. Work, emotion, stress and even
conversation pull blood from digestion. That's why we should relax when we eat.</span></li>
<li style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: "andalus" , serif;">Do not eat while being distracted by television,
excessive conversation or reading. Keep the mind present and pay full
attention. Did you know it is not only what you eat that is important, but HOW
you eat it? Eating should be made a sacred time of the day when you get to sit
down, relax and bring awareness to yourself and your food. If possible try to
find a quiet place and avoid excessive conversation, television, computers,
loud music, and even reading at this time. This should be made a time to
observe, savor and appreciate each bite of food as you eat.By doing this
practice, you allow yourself to not only relax a little during your busy day,
but you also allow the digestion to be at its best. The digestive enzymes will
be able to flow freely and you will create the time and space to realize when
fullness comes.</span></li>
<li style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: "andalus" , serif;">The first fifteen minutes after eating are
crucial. A massive increase of blood flow to the digestive tract brings fluid
to acid-producing glands lining the stomach. The corresponding lack of blood in
the mind makes us feel sleepy. It's important to relax during this time of
sleepiness, even to the point of reclining on the left side. Humans should
yield to digestion, giving the body the time, space and blood it needs to
properly digest food. After the stomach fills with fluids, blood will be
released for other activities. Energy and alertness will return to the mind.
Then alas, the afternoon siesta ends and we are ready to reclaim the day.</span></li>
<li style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: "andalus" , serif;">Each meal should include the six tastes: bitter,
pungent, astringent, salty, sweet and sour. The Ayurvedic Diet emphasizes on
the importance of including the six tastes at every meal (bitter, pungent,
astringent, salty, sweet and sour). Each taste has a balancing ability. In many
western countries we add too little of the bitter, pungent and astringent taste
and add too much of the salty, sweet and sour into our food, and as a result we
become imbalanced. We need to have a balanced mix of all the six tastes.</span></li>
<li style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: "andalus" , serif;">Sequence of consuming food :Madhur (sweet) rasa
food like fruits are advisable to take in the beginning of meal, food with Amla
and Lavana (sour and salty) rasa in the middle and Katu,Tikta,Kashay (bitter,
astringent and pungent) foods should be taken at the end of meal.</span></li>
<li style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: "andalus" , serif;">These six tastes are listed in the order they
are digested in your body. Sweet gets digested first, that's why it's not a
good idea to have a dessert at the end of the meal, which is typical in our
culture, but rather at the beginning. Salad, on the other hand, is perfect at
the end of the meal. Ayurveda Diet has a very holistic-medicine-point of view
on diet.Cravings are often caused by not having all of the six tastes in your
daily diet. Many people often omit the bitter and astringent tastes .When you
have something bitter or astringent at the end of a meal, it actually reduces
your desire for sweets.</span></li>
<li style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: "andalus" , serif;">Chew your food until it is an even consistency
before swallowing. The number of chews before swallowing will vary according to
the food, but a convenient rule of thumb is that about 30 chews prior to
swallowing is normally optimal.</span><span style="font-family: "andalus" , serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: "andalus" , serif;">This
means that you should take at least 45 minutes to eat a two-course main
meal.</span><span style="font-family: "andalus" , serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: "andalus" , serif;">Among the benefits of proper
chewing are: breaking up the food sufficiently to allow quicker and more
complete penetration of enzymes and digestive acids; chewing slower allows for
more signaling to the brain so that satiation occurs earlier, making you eat
less; and longer chewing sets up the correct sequence of events for proper mechanical
and chemical (enzymatic) digestion to occur.Digestion progresses from the mouth
through to the stomach and intestines, where digestive acids and enzymes are
sequentially released from different glands and organs.</span></li>
<li style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: "andalus" , serif;">After a meal one should attend to favorite
sounds, sights, tastes, smells, and touches. By doing this the meal is positioned
well. Despicable sounds, sights, tastes, smells, and touches as well as dirty
food or excessive laughter may produce vomiting.</span></li>
</ul>
<b style="font-family: andalus, serif;"> Don’t’s</b><br />
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<ul style="text-align: left;">
<li style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: "andalus" , serif;">Wholesome food will lose its wholesomeness in
the digestive tract if it’s eaten with a negative state of mind. If you’re
upset, angry or crying, postpone eating until you feel better. According to
ayurveda food not only nourishes the body also nourishes the mind.</span></li>
<li style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: "andalus" , serif;">Avoid eating stale food. Fresh food is full of
prana (life force) and nutrients. These start to diminish soon after it’s
cooked. By the time it’s a leftover, the properties have changed and it’s heavy
for the body to digest.Cooking every single meal may not be realistic but at
least try to avoid food that’s been cooked more than 24 hours before.</span></li>
<li style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: "andalus" , serif;">Did you know that one of the worst habits to
practice is to lie down after a meal? This greatly impedes digestion by
squishing the GI tract and creating a sluggish descent for the ingested food.
This in turn causes indigestion, leading to a low metabolism and toxic
build-up.</span></li>
<li style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: "andalus" , serif;">Do not drink cold drinks just prior to or while
eating, also don't drink large quantities of liquid during meals. This weakens
digestion.</span></li>
<li style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: "andalus" , serif;">Snacking between meals</span></li>
<li style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: "andalus" , serif;">Don't eat fruits immediately - Immediately
eating fruits after meals will cause stomach to be bloated with air. Therefore
take fruit one to two hours after meal or one hour before meal.</span></li>
<li style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: "andalus" , serif;">No travelling, exercise or sexual intercourse
within one hour after meal.</span></li>
<li style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: "andalus" , serif;">Avoid meals after exertion</span></li>
<li style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: "andalus" , serif;">Avoid meals when you are having no appetite.</span></li>
<li style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: "andalus" , serif;">Avoid meals when thirsty and water while hungry.</span></li>
<li style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: "andalus" , serif;">Don't suppress the appetite as it leads to body
pain, anorexia, lassitude, vertigo and general debility.</span></li>
<li style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: "andalus" , serif;">Don't suppress the thirst as it leads to general
debility, giddiness and heart diseases.</span></li>
<li style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: "andalus" , serif;">One should not indulge in sleep or sitting after
a meal. Nor should one take liquids, expose oneself to the sun or fire nor
should one swim, travel or ride.</span></li>
<li style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: "andalus" , serif;">Eat neither too fast nor too slow. Don’t rush
and don’t linger.</span></li>
</ul>
<b style="font-family: andalus, serif;"> </b><br />
<b style="font-family: andalus, serif;"> 8.Upayokta (User/person eating
food)</b><br />
<ul style="text-align: left;">
<li style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: "andalus" , serif;">Upayokta is the person who consumes the food .It’s perhaps
the most important factor since salutary or unpleasant effects of diet depend
on the individual ingesting it.</span></li>
</ul>
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<b style="font-family: andalus, serif; text-align: left;"> Conclusion</b></div>
<ul style="text-align: left;">
<li style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: "andalus" , serif;">It is ironic how something as obvious as
nutrition has become overlooked in the modern health care system, and how in
the name of convenience our fast paced society has given way to fast foods,
microwaves, quick fix medicines, and eating on the run. Fortunately, there is a
growing focus in the important role that nutrition plays in maintaining good
health. In Ayurveda, India’s ancient science of life, health and longevity,
food plays a prominent role in promoting health and is therefore considered
medicine.</span></li>
<li style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: "andalus" , serif;">Cooking today is mostly aimed to make the food
more delicious; different experiments are tried out by the catering experts in
this regard and new ‘dishes’ and new recipes are derived. Deep fried food,
varieties of spices and arbitrary combination of foods of non-compatible
natural qualities are harmful to our health according to Ayurveda. But we don’t
think of it as long as the food is palatable. The use of pre-cooked food-ingredients
and the so-called “fast foods” should be avoided, as it has very adverse
effects on our body-system. Apart from lacking in nourishing value this type of
‘modern’ food is very likely to impair the normal functioning of our digestive
system and cause harmful mutations due to the chemicals in the preservatives,
the artificial flavors and the chemically processed cooking involved in its
preparation.</span></li>
<li style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: "andalus" , serif;">Dating back over five thousand years, Ayurveda
is still a highly respected form of health care in India today. According to
this holistic system, everyone has a unique constitution or prakruti—an
individual combination of physical, mental and emotional characteristics
determined by many factors surrounding the time of conception and birth.
Disturbance of this balance due to emotional and physical stress, trauma,
improper food combination and choices, as well as seasonal and weather changes
may lead to imbalance and eventually to disease. If we understand how such
factors affect us we can take appropriate actions to minimize their effect and
eliminate the causes of imbalance. In this sense, the path toward health is
always individual. There is no single approach that is right for everyone,
whether it relates to diet, lifestyle, exercise or the use of medicinal herbs.</span></li>
<li style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: "andalus" , serif;">There are many different habit changes you can
incorporate into your lifestyle which will benefit your health and well being.
A healthy mind comes from putting healthy compatible foods into the system so a
person can function at a high level of awareness. As there are many better
habits that can be applied to our modern day lifestyles, there are also a few
fundamental practices that we need to keep so our system functions on the same
level as nature. Ayurveda encourages us to take responsibility for our health
as much as possible by making appropriate changes in diet and lifestyle. What
we eat and how we live on a daily basis can be our strongest allies in restoring
and maintaining health. All other therapeutic measures will be strongly
supported by this daily effort.</span></li>
</ul>
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Vaishali G Kamathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13368641312089476984noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4746605527351922533.post-82953590392583690712015-01-14T17:02:00.000+05:302018-01-14T21:00:18.743+05:30Why do we celebrate Makar Sankranti ? Answer revealed...<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEip3FQzNaH20McUwcx_6I56H86FpK_LHl-tjpKs2mfq0nVdHEfJGrVDKymtQpuW6IqK4iZSZnCossC31xHCs1n_cL0pCcutK2fks7WcQTBw5fEeGDxpFCz_qff-wF3zYDY0b52my9OmbhyF/s1600/e3d69b807b5c30b71ceafedebbdf7446--indian-desserts-indian-sweets.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="672" data-original-width="600" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEip3FQzNaH20McUwcx_6I56H86FpK_LHl-tjpKs2mfq0nVdHEfJGrVDKymtQpuW6IqK4iZSZnCossC31xHCs1n_cL0pCcutK2fks7WcQTBw5fEeGDxpFCz_qff-wF3zYDY0b52my9OmbhyF/s640/e3d69b807b5c30b71ceafedebbdf7446--indian-desserts-indian-sweets.jpg" width="570" /></a></div>
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<ul style="text-align: left;">
<li><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Makar Sankranti marks the transition of the
Sun into the zodiac sign of Makara rashi (Capricorn) on its celestial path. The
day is also believed to mark the arrival of spring in India and is a
traditional event. Makara Sankranti is a solar event making one of the few
Indian festivals which fall on the same date in the Gregorian calendar every
year: 14 January, with some exceptions when the festival is celebrated on 13 or
15 January.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Sankranti literally means “movement.” As per
the Hindu calendar it is on this day that the Sun enters into the Zodiac
Capricorn or "Makara". Also referred to as "Uttarayana” (northward
movement of the sun begins). The importance of this day has been signified in
the ancient epics like Mahabharata also. So, apart from socio-geographical
importance, this day also holds a historical and religious significance. As it
is the festival of Sun God, and he is regarded as the symbol of divinity and
wisdom, the festival also holds an eternal meaning to it.People worship the
rising Sun on this day by offering water and flowers with both the hands.
Thereafter Gayatri Mantra is chanted while praying for knowledge, wisdom and
enlightenment.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Makara Sankranti, apart from a harvest
festival is also regarded as the beginning of an auspicious phase in Indian
culture. It is said as the 'holy phase of transition'. It marks the end of an
inauspicious phase which according to the Hindu calendar begins around
mid-December. It is believed that any auspicious and sacred ritual can be
sanctified in any Hindu family, this day onwards. Scientifically, this day
marks the beginning of warmer and longer days compared to the nights. In other
words, Sankranti marks the termination of winter season and beginning of a new
harvest or spring season.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">In Vedic times, Uttarayan was known as
Devayan and Dakshinayan as Pitriyan. It is believed that Gods themselves come
down to earth to accept that is donated away to Bramhins on Makar Sankranti.
Holy souls enter into heaven during Sun's Uttarayan movement. It is for this
reason Makar Sankranti is known as Alok Parva as well. According to Hindu
calendar, in the month of Poush, Gods go to sleep and therefore no auspicious
works are advised in this month. But Gods awake in the month of Magh, starting
from Makar Sankranti and all auspicious events like marriage etc. can be
organized.</span></li>
</ul>
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<b><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"> Legends behind this festival</span></b></div>
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<ul style="text-align: left;">
<li><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">One of the most important legends is the
death of Bhishma Pitamaha in the Mahabharata. Bhishma chose the Uttarayan
period. (Bhisma had got a boon from his father that he will only die when he
wishes.) It is believed that people who die during Uttarayana merges with the
Brahman, thus ending the cycle of rebirth.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Legend also has it that Lord Vishnu buried
Asuras on this day beneath the Mandara Mountain. It signifies the end of evil
and the dawn of righteousness.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Another legend is that King Bhageeratha
brought Ganges down into Patala on Makara Sankranti day. This was to get
salvation to his ancestors who were cursed by Sage Kapila and turned into
ashes. On this day millions of people take bath in the Ganges. Makara Sankranti
is also an important bathing date during Kumbh Mela and Magh Mela.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Puranas state that on Makar Sankranti day,
Surya visits Lord Shani. In mythology Lord Shani, is the son of Surya.It is
believed that Lord Surya visits his son Lord Shani on this day. Legend has it
that this father and son never got along ordinarily. However, despite
differences on the day of Makar Sankranti</span><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">
</span><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Lord Sun makes it a point to visit Shani which symbolises the importance
of father son relationship.Therefore, people in the north India visit their
sons and buy them gifts on this day.It is considered as an auspicious day to
forgive past quarrels and start relationships afresh</span></li>
</ul>
<b><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"> </span></b><div>
<b><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"> Symbolic meaning</span></b><br /><ul style="text-align: left;">
<li><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">There is also a symbolic meaning to Makara
Sankranti. ‘Makar’ means crocodile. Sankranti means ‘to cross into or change.’
The ‘Makara’ or crocodile represents the materialistic world and ‘Sankranti’
gives an opportunity to get away from the clutches of the crocodile or the
materialistic world.</span></li>
</ul>
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<b><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"> Various names for same festival<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<li><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Sankranti is celebrated all over South Asia
with some regional variations. All over the country, Makara Sankranti is
observed with great fanfare. Though extremely popular as Makar Sankranti, the
festival is predominantly a harvest festival and is celebrated throughout
India, from north to south and east to west. Following is the list of festivals
as per region.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Pongal,Uzhavar Thirunal in Tamil Nadu</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Uttarayan in Gujarat</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Maghi in Haryana, Himachal Pradesh and
Punjab. The day before, people of Punjab celebrate Lohri.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Bhogali Bihu in Assam</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Shishur Saenkraat in Kashmir Valley</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Khichdi in Uttar Pradesh and western Bihar</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Makara Sankramana in Karnataka</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"> </span><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Sankranthi- Pedda Panduga in Andhra Pradesh (harvest
festival celebrated for four days)</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Makar Sankranti in Maharashtra (This is a
special day for the women in Maharashtra and Goa when married women are invited
for a get-together called ‘Haldi-Kumkum’)</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Makar Sankranti marks the end of the
pilgrimage to the famous Sabarimala Temple in Kerala.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">In West Bengal, it is Pithey parban – a
harvest festival – and there is also the famous Ganga Sagar mela.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">In Central India, it is Sakarat.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">In Orissa, it is Makar Mela</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">In other countries also it is celebrated but
under different names and in different ways.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Nepal: Maghe Sankranti </span><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"> </span><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">or Maghe Sakrati</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Thailand: </span><span lang="TH" style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">สงกรานต์</span><span lang="TH" style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"> </span><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Songkran</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Laos: Pi Ma Lao</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Myanmar: Thingyan</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Cambodia: Moha Sangkran</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Sri Lanka: Pongal, Uzhavar Thirunal.</span></li>
</ul>
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<b><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"> Rituals associated with sankranti</span></b></div>
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<li><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Makar Sankranti is famous for its sesame
sweets and kite flying. But there is much more to this festival that is a
celebration of the Winter Solstice.</span></li>
</ul>
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<div style="background: white; text-align: left;">
<b style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: x-large;"> </b><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><b>Kite flying</b></span></div>
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<ul style="text-align: left;">
<li><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">In Gujarat, Makar Sankranti is kite-flying
day.There is a very interesting reason behind the kite-flying. Kite-flying in
olden days was generally done in the early hours of the morning, when the sun's
rays were bright but not too harsh. Also, during kite-flying, the human body
was exposed to the sun for long hours. The early morning sun is considered
beneficial for the skin and body. </span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Since winter is also the time of a lot of
infections and sickness, by basking in the sun, Hindus believed that the bad
bacteria on their bodies would be cleared to a certain extent. Creating a fun
way of sun basking where no one would even realize they were reaping benefits
was through kite flying.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">In some parts of western India like Gujarat
kite flying competitions are organized during this occasion. People offer
thousands of their colorful oblations to the Sun in the form of beautiful
kites. The message intended is, “Rise higher like the kite’ </span></li>
</ul>
<b style="background-color: white; font-family: georgia, "times new roman", serif; font-size: x-large;"> </b><b style="background-color: white; font-family: georgia, "times new roman", serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">Sesame sweets intake</span></b><br /><div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white;">
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<ul style="text-align: left;">
<li><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Tilgul is a excellent
sesame candy made of sesame seeds and jaggery. Til means sesame seeds whereas
gul means jaggery in Marathi/ Hindi.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Sesame Seed is the seed of an annual herb,
Sesamum indicum, which grows well in hot climates and is the most commonly
produced seed. Sesame (Til) is not just an eatable item, in Ayurveda it is
considered to have beneficial medicinal properties.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">It is a rainy season crop, and is mainly of
three kinds: 1. black sesame 2. White sesame 3. Red sesame. Black sesame
contains the best qualities with respect to nutrition. White sesame possesses
medium qualities and red sesame has no qualities at all.The most important
specialty of sesame is that is contains four rasas (flavors), hot, bitter,
sweet and pungent. Sesame is hot in nature and is therefore used for preparing
sweets in winter season. According to Ayurveda since this sankranti festival
falls during winter season having sesame seeds provides the body the much
needed heat and keep it warm.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Different types of sweets like gajak, laddu,
revadi, etc. are made of sesame during the winter and protect us from cold. The
chances of catching cold reduce if we eat these sweets. Sesame laddu's are
beneficial for those children who normally have the problem of bed-wetting in
winters. Children having this problem should be given one sesame laddu each in
the morning and evening. Tilgul recipe is a combination that helps keep the
body warm due to these heat generating ingredients making it a healthy sweet to
enjoy.As such sesame seeds are considered to be very auspicious during this
festival and the maximum use of sesame seeds is made during this festival.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">In Maharashtra people exchange multi-colored
tilguls made from til (sesame seeds) and sugar and til-laddus made from til and
jaggery (to mark the harvest of the first sugarcane crop of the year). While
exchanging tilguls as tokens of goodwill people greet each other saying –
‘til-gul ghya, god god bola’ meaning ‘accept these tilguls and speak sweet
words’. The under-lying thought in the exchange of tilguls is to forget the
past ill-feelings and hostilities and resolve to speak sweetly and remain friends.
The symbolic meaning is to emulate the quality of Tilgul - to stick together
even in the face of adversity.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Sesame seeds have a greater ability to absorb
and emit "Sattva" frequencies because of which having food containing
sesame is considered to be spiritual. Similarly distributing and exchanging
Tilgul results in an exchange of the "Sattva" component.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Jaggery is a rich source of iron due to the
process involved, using iron utensils. It is considered by some to be a
particularly wholesome sugar and, unlike refined sugar, it retains more mineral
salts. Moreover, the process does not involve chemical agents.</span><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"> </span><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Ayurvedic texts consider jaggery to be
beneficial in treating throat and lung infections.</span></li>
</ul>
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<li><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Makar Sankranti is also known as Khichadi
(Indian dish made from rice and Moong bean dhal) because on this day the
injunction to eat Khichadi , is generally observed by people. Seasonal crops
become available. Ghee and spices are used for making tasty nourishing khichadi.
Winter loosens its grip on shiver producing cold, admitting springtime that
brings with it the chance for all round health improvement. Those who are
familiar with Rutucharya, may know that Vata problems were exacerbated during
winter. Hence khichadi recipe during these days use ghee, tender garlic, whole grains,
coriander, spinach, fenugreek etc.which will pacify vata problems (Spinal and
joint pains).</span></li>
</ul>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><b> Various Other rituals</b><u><o:p></o:p></u></span></div>
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<li><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Traditionally on the day of Makar Sankranti
day people have a ritual bath in Uttar Pradesh. The sacred meeting place at
Allahabad- the confluence of the Ganga and Yamuna- is an important place for
holy baths.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">It is said that til emanates from Lord
Vishnu's body and that the above described usage wash away all kinds of sins. Sankranti
period is held to be very auspicious and any good deeds during this time will
produce merits. Gifts of clothing, blankets etc. on this day are productive of
merits in both this life and in the next life.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Taking bath and giving donations has special
importance in Makar Sankranti. Traditionally, donations are given away after
taking bath in a river and eating Khichdi. Religious scriptures also emphasize
upon bath, donation and religious jobs on this day. It has been said that
donations given on Makar Sankranti comes back hundred times more in next birth.
In the states of Uttar Pradesh, Bihar and Madhya Pradesh, people bath
collectively in sacred rivers like Ganga and give away things like til, gud,
rice, etc. Giving woolen clothes and blankets to Bramhins has also special
importance on this day.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">As bulls signify the harvest season, they are
treated with respect and decorated with garlands and prayed to. Major cattle
fairs are held at different places where many camels, bullocks and horses are
sold and purchased by animal lovers. On this auspicious day, even cows and
bulls are given a wash and the horns are painted with bright colors and
decorated with garland as a part of the festivities.</span></li>
</ul>
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<b><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"> Conclusion<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<li><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">The sun is the inexhaustible storehouse and
the source of light and energy. Without sunlight creatures and vegetation would
cease to exist. People will lose their life sustaining vitality. Lack of nourishing
substances would lead to the end of creation. This is why the sun's existence,
movements and positions in the cosmos are so important and that is why the sun
earns our respect, admiration and reverence.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Makar Sankranti also heralds the arrival of
spring.To hindus, the sun stands for knowledge, spiritual light and wisdom.
Makara Sakranti signifies that we should turn away from the darkness of
delusion in which we live, and begin to joyously let the light within us shine
brighter and brighter. We should gradually begin to grow in purity, wisdom, and
knowledge, even as the sun does from this day.</span></li>
</ul>
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<span style="font-family: georgia, "times new roman", serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
Happy Makar Sankranti !</span><br /><ul style="text-align: left;">
</ul>
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Vaishali G Kamathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13368641312089476984noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4746605527351922533.post-60414170093080143222014-11-28T22:50:00.000+05:302014-11-29T01:48:19.837+05:30 Tempering......healthy affair with spices.<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<ul style="text-align: left;">
<li><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="font-size: large; line-height: 115%; text-align: justify;">Tempering is the method used heavily in traditional Indian
cooking. Tempering of spices is a traditional method to extract the full flavor
from spices. Essentially this method is when whole or ground spices are heated
in hot oil/ghee (butter) and then added to a dish, which makes the dish more
fragrant and flavorsome and brings the essence of the spices to the fore. The
symphony of various spices in hot ghee has its own taste and smell which
defines Indian cuisine.</span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="font-size: large; line-height: 115%; text-align: justify;">But have you ever wondered why we add a tadka or chhonk in
our dals and other dishes? Is it just for taste or does it holding any other
benefit as well? The truth is, a tadka not only adds flavor to our food but
also holds many health benefits in it. Not only does tempering add flavor but
it also unlocks the nutritional benefits of the spices.</span></span></li>
</ul>
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<b style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-size: large;"> Synonyms</span></b></div>
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<ul>
<li><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; line-height: 115%;">Chaunk/chhaunk/ chounk/ chonk ( </span><span lang="HI" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; line-height: 115%;">छौंक) </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; line-height: 115%;">in Hindi</span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;"><span lang="BN" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; line-height: 115%;">তড়কা(</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; line-height: 115%;">tarka)/</span><span lang="BN" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; line-height: 115%;">বাগার(</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; line-height: 115%;">bagar)/ </span><span lang="BN" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; line-height: 115%;">ফোড়ন(</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; line-height: 115%;">phoron)
in Bengali</span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; line-height: 115%;">Tarka (</span><span lang="PA" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; line-height: 115%;">ਤੜਕਾ) </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; line-height: 115%;">in Punjabi</span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; line-height: 115%;">Thaalithal (</span><span lang="TA" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; line-height: 115%;">தாளித்தல்) </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; line-height: 115%;">in Tamil</span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; line-height: 115%;">Oggara</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; line-height: 115%;">ṇ</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; line-height: 115%;">e (</span><span lang="KN" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; line-height: 115%;">ಒಗ್ಗರಣೆ) </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; line-height: 115%;">in Kannada</span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; line-height: 115%;">Fonna(</span><span lang="HI" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; line-height: 115%;">फोण्ण) </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; line-height: 115%;">in Konkani</span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; line-height: 115%;">Vaghaar (</span><span lang="GU" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; line-height: 115%;">વઘાર) </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; line-height: 115%;">in Gujarati</span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; line-height: 115%;">Fodni (</span><span lang="HI" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; line-height: 115%;">फोडणी) </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; line-height: 115%;">in Marathi</span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; line-height: 115%;">Thalimpu (</span><span lang="TE" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; line-height: 115%;">తాళింపు) </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; line-height: 115%;">or
popu ( </span><span lang="TE" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; line-height: 115%;">పోపు ) </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; line-height: 115%;">in
Telugu</span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; line-height: 115%;">Baghaar (Urdu: </span><span dir="RTL" lang="AR-SA" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; line-height: 115%;">بگھار</span><span dir="LTR" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"></span><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; line-height: 115%;"><span dir="LTR"></span>)</span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large; line-height: 115%;">Baghara (in oriya)</span></li>
</ul>
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<b><span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> Etymology<o:p></o:p></span></span></b></div>
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<ul>
<li><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; line-height: 115%;">The Hindi name, chhaunk (the initial consonant,
"chh" (</span><span lang="HI" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; line-height: 115%;">छ</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; line-height: 115%;">)</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; line-height: 115%;"> is a heavily aspirated "ch" sound),
is believed to be onomatopoetic, imitating the muffled sound of the just-fried
spices being added to a dal or other dish.</span></span></li>
</ul>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"> </span></span><b><span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">What are the uses of tempering?</span></span></b></span></div>
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<li><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large; line-height: 115%;">Herbs have their own healing properties and some like cumin,
turmeric etc. are excellent for digestion. So, it makes complete sense to add
it your dishes like dals, veggies, etc.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large; line-height: 115%;">It also gives the
food a mouth-watering taste and adds a visual appeal to boring, routine food.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large; line-height: 115%;">Phytonutrients
present in turmeric, curry leaves, cumin, etc are important for our body, they
all have medicinal values. Since the hot ghee or vegetable oil helps the spices
unlock their healing properties.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large; line-height: 115%;">Hot fat has an
amazing ability to extract and retain the essence, aroma and flavor of spices
and herbs and then carry this essence with it when it is added to a dish.</span></li>
</ul>
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<b><span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> What is the science behind tempering?<o:p></o:p></span></span></b></div>
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<li><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large; line-height: 115%;">Tempering is the method of heating fat and throwing in
whole spices until they release their essential oils.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large; line-height: 115%;">Solubility of compounds - The aroma and heat of spices are
caused by organic compounds that are synthesized by plants. These compounds are
usually hydrophobic in nature. When spices are tempered in oil, these compounds
are readily solubilized in the oil and the aroma and fragrance is dispersed
through the dish along with the oil. Added to this, some spices like mustard
seeds or sesame seeds contain oil inside the seeds, when added to hot oil,
these seeds pop and splutter, this releases these fragrant oils into the
cooking oil.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large; line-height: 115%;">The aromatic compounds in spices dissolve much better in
oil than in water, thus frying in ghee enhances the fragrance because of the
high temperature, and also extracts the flavor to the oil, and hence it can be
dispersed through the food efficiently.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large; line-height: 115%;">Frying all the potent spices in hot oil releases the flavors
of the spices and the aroma, and cooking the dish in this flavorful oil adds
the subtle taste of the spices to the dish, without overpowering the actual
dish itself.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large; line-height: 115%;">These are fried to a crisp during the tempering process.
This adds an element of crunch, which is an added dimension of texture to the
food. Adding raw or boiled spices will not be able to achieve this texture.</span></li>
</ul>
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<b><span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> How is tempering done?<o:p></o:p></span></span></b></div>
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<li><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large; line-height: 115%;">In authentic Indian cooking, the key to making a truly
delicious meal is not only choosing the right spices but also adding them in
the right order and tempering them correctly.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large; line-height: 115%;">Tempering is done primarily by heating a little oil or
clarified butter and adding the relevant spices until they change color or
crackle. Here again although the basic concept of tempering is the same all
over the country, each region or for that matter every family has its own
distinctive way of tempering, and each claims proudly & possessively that
theirs is the best way to temper food!</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large; line-height: 115%;">Tempering is followed across India from north, south, east
and west. Though the ingredients may differ slightly, the benefits still remain
intact. Here’s what you need to do.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large; line-height: 115%;">Heat a tablespoon of ghee or oil in a pan. When it is
simmering hot, keep the gas on a medium flame and add mustard seeds. Once they
start to crackle, add jeera. Once the jeera becomes slightly bigger in size,
add onion, garlic. Stir continuously till they become slightly pink. Now add
spices like haldi(turmeric), hing(asafetida), mirchi(chili) powder or red chilies,
etc. Mix them well and then turn off the gas. Now add this to your pre-cooked dal,
mix and serve immediately. This is a standard dal tadka. Depending on the dish,
the ingredients change. For example, in some dishes, curry leaves, ginger-garlic
paste is added in the tempering.</span></li>
</ul>
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<b><span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> Where tempering of spices is well known?<o:p></o:p></span></span></b></div>
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<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large; line-height: 115%;">Tempering is a common technique used in the countries like
India, Bangladesh and Pakistan.</span></li>
</ul>
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<b><span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> When is tempering done?<o:p></o:p></span></span></b></div>
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<li><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large; line-height: 115%;">Tempering is either added at the very beginning or at the
very end of the dish depending on what it is. For example, in dals, tempering
is often added in the end while other preparations have it at the start.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large; line-height: 115%;">When making a
simple dish of rice with cumin, heat the whole cumin seeds in hot oil and then
add the rice and continue cooking it. Tempering also can be used at the end of
the cooking process. </span></li>
</ul>
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<b><span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> What are the Ingredients used?<o:p></o:p></span></span></b></div>
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<li><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;"><span style="line-height: 115%;">Ingredients typically used for tempering include cumin
seeds, black mustard seeds, fennel seeds, fresh green chilies, dried red chilies,
fenugreek seeds, asafetida, cassia, cloves, urad dal(split black gram), curry
leaves, chopped onion, garlic, ginger or bay leaves. When using multiple
ingredients for a tempering they are often added in succession, with those
requiring longer cooking added earlier, and those requiring less cooking added
later. In Oriya cuisine and Bengali cuisine, a mixture of whole spices called
Panch phutana or panch phoron(<a href="https://www.blogger.com/goog_2008974280"> </a></span><span style="line-height: 27.6000003814697px;"><a href="http://vaishali2013.blogspot.in/2014/02/healthy-panch-phoron-5-spice-mix.html">http://vaishali2013.blogspot.in/2014/02/healthy-panch-phoron-5-spice-mix.html</a>)</span><span style="line-height: 115%;"> is used.</span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; line-height: 115%;">The ingredients used in a Tempering varies dependant on
the area the dish originated from.</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; line-height: 115%;">
</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; line-height: 115%;">Dishes from the North of India tend to favor cumin whilst dishes from
the south prefer curry leaves.</span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large; line-height: 115%;">There is no fixed authentic combination, but go with what
you have and what you like, it's completely up to you.</span></li>
</ul>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGUbpynC0D4eJ8qc1nU7wpY-dkyuLbxBW761-4OFxq7YauXwVb9VgpU62E2xMefjN5AIJhyKrI3Fpl_czaLKn2xTz6gRaxs65LBPvApv5fV6Wk1k0Ys8PHVplP6dntXBEUqrAhQyf4r02X/s1600/4406279816_1a023fe61d.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGUbpynC0D4eJ8qc1nU7wpY-dkyuLbxBW761-4OFxq7YauXwVb9VgpU62E2xMefjN5AIJhyKrI3Fpl_czaLKn2xTz6gRaxs65LBPvApv5fV6Wk1k0Ys8PHVplP6dntXBEUqrAhQyf4r02X/s1600/4406279816_1a023fe61d.jpg" height="296" width="320" /></a></span></div>
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<b><span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> Spice Box or Masala Box<o:p></o:p></span></span></b></div>
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<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large; line-height: 115%;">An Indian kitchen is incomplete without the tempering box
or masala box. The general ingredients that go into the various compartments of
this box are: cumin, mustard, split black gram, chili powder, turmeric powder,
coriander powder. The seventh container in the centre can be filled with
cinnamon, cloves and cardamom. Asafetida is often kept in a tiny bottle within
the box, but with its lid closed since it has a very strong aroma. Some boxes
are fitted with a rimmed tray for dry chilies and bay leaves.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large; line-height: 115%;">Each of these ingredients has something to offer in terms
of good health, especially for proper digestion. Given below are the basic uses
of some of the spices used for tempering.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large; line-height: 115%;">Turmeric is used for its great healing, cosmetic as well
as antioxidant properties for building immunity. Turmeric is anti-viral,
anti-bacterial, anti-fungal, anti-parasitic, and anthelmintic. Turmeric is a
powerful anti-inflammatory and antiseptic.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large; line-height: 115%;">Black gram is added for its heating quality,</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large; line-height: 115%;">Health benefits of cumin are that it dispels gas,
eliminates toxins, is a mild laxative, and is anti-inflammatory.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large; line-height: 115%;">Mustard seeds are supposed to relieve muscular pain it
also has anti inflammatory properties.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large; line-height: 115%;">Asafetida health benefits are many; it is an
antiepileptic, antimicrobial, mild laxative, anti-inflammatory, expectorant,
antispasmodic, and anti-flatulent agent.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; line-height: 115%;">Fenugreek seeds are excellent digestives, especially after
a heavy meal.</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; line-height: 115%;">It has been also used as a general tonic to improve
metabolism and health.</span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; line-height: 115%;">Curry leaves </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; line-height: 115%;"> </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; line-height: 115%;">improve the quality of digestive juices
secreted during digestion. Their action starts with intake. Their smell, taste
and visual impression initiates salivary secretion and initiates the
peristaltic wave, which is the first step in good digestion. They are mildly
laxative and thus can tackle multiple digestive problems caused by food intake.</span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large; line-height: 115%;">A lot of these
spices are known for improving digestive health and healing powers.So, next
time you open that masala box, pause and take note that it holds lots of secrets
to our health!</span></li>
</ul>
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<b><span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> Tempering Tips</span></span></b></div>
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<ul>
<li><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; line-height: 115%;">You don’t need lots of oil/ghee.</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; line-height: 115%;"> </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; line-height: 115%;">One or two tablespoons are enough.</span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; line-height: 115%;">Ideally use Ghee, sunflower or vegetable oil.</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; line-height: 115%;"> </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; line-height: 115%;">Olive oil in this case is not the best choice,
Olive oil breaks down at high temperatures, and the oil needs to be very hot
for this.</span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large; line-height: 115%;">The whole process only takes a few seconds, so make sure
you are prepared before you start.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large; line-height: 115%;">The oil or ghee should be very hot at first, then reduced
to medium, then add the spices. You know the oil is hot enough when you can see
a slight shimmer.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large; line-height: 115%;">Tempering method is a good way of delivering the spice
flavor as fat is a good transporter for them and closing the lid means trapping
the fragrant vapor.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large; line-height: 115%;">Fresh curry leaves are gorgeous. Aromatic, earthy, pretty,
they make a curry. The dried variety pales in comparison but is still worth
using if fresh is hard to come by.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large; line-height: 115%;">When it comes to mustard and cumin seeds, it’s important
to make sure they all pop in the oil and I’ll tell you a little secret to avoid
being burnt by the mini fireworks display on the stove. Holding a lid over the
pan is a much more elegant way to avoid injury.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large; line-height: 115%;">If you are not sure whether the oil is hot enough (look
for a slight shimmer), Tempering requires your undivided attention, so it is
not to be juggled with distractions An annoying but unavoidable truth of
tempering is that if you burn the spices, you must get rid of them, wipe the
pan and start again because burnt seeds are perfectly capable of ruining the
whole dish.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; line-height: 115%;">If you are making a curry, then temper at the start.</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; line-height: 115%;"> </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; line-height: 115%;">If you are making a dal, rasam or sambar then
it is best to temper at the end.</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; line-height: 115%;"> </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; line-height: 115%;">If you
are tempering at the end of a dish, then use a separate pan and simply add to
the dish.</span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; line-height: 115%;">Not sure what to temper?</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; line-height: 115%;">
</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; line-height: 115%;">You can try powdered spices, cumin seeds, red dry chilies, mustard
seeds, grated ginger or garlic, bay leaves or cloves.</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; line-height: 115%;"> </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; line-height: 115%;">The choice is yours.</span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; line-height: 115%;">The perfectly acceptable way is to drop in a couple of
mustard or cumin seeds to see if popping occurs.</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; line-height: 115%;"> </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; line-height: 115%;">Always maintain control of the oil
temperature. Turning the heat down or even off once the seeds have popped is
advisable to prevent burning things.</span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large; line-height: 115%;">If you’re going to add your vegetables or other
ingredients to your tempering, be sure to choose a large enough pan to hold
everything.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large; line-height: 115%;">Trying to prepare the tempering too far in advance or
storing in the fridge will result in loss of flavor and aroma.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large; line-height: 115%;">No water is ever added to a tempering.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; line-height: 115%;">The only thing you need to bear in mind is to control the
oil content while making the tempering. Many people end up using too much oil
which obviously adds to weight gain and other health issues. People with
stomach ulcers, acidity, heart problems, mouth ulcers, pimples, excessive body
heat, etc must keep it to a minimum.</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; line-height: 115%;"> </span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; line-height: 115%;">If you burn the
spices, you’ll have to throw your mixture out and start again, as the burnt flavor
will ruin your whole dish.</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; line-height: 115%;"> </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; line-height: 115%;">The key to
tempering is heat control.</span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large; line-height: 115%;">Once your tempering is complete, you can start to add your
other ingredients such as onions, meat & vegetables</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large; line-height: 115%;">As you add more
ingredients the temperature in your pot will start to drop, so you may need to
add more heat</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large; line-height: 115%;">The ingredients are
usually added quickly one after the other. Start with those that require longer
cooking and move to those that require least cooking.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large; line-height: 115%;">The splattering of the spices and changes in the color
will let you know that the tempering is complete.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; line-height: 115%;">Dry Roasting spices are not recommended as volatile
essential oils in the spices are lost when dry roasted. Fat is a good carrier
of flavor. Well here you have the combination of both.</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; line-height: 115%;"> </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; line-height: 115%;">The heating of fat to fry the
spices/aromatics and then pouring it over the food and trapping that essential
oil vapor by closing with a lid.</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; line-height: 115%;"> </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; line-height: 115%;">You’re maximizing
the spice flavor.</span></span></li>
</ul>
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<b><span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> Other methods<o:p></o:p></span></span></b></div>
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</div>
<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large; line-height: 115%;">In addition to showing us the typical tempering
ingredients, u can used some unusual techniques for tempering, such as adding
hot oil to already roasted spices, which really helped transform dishes from
mundane to magical.</span></li>
</ul>
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<b><span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> Conclusion<o:p></o:p></span></span></b></div>
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</div>
<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large; line-height: 115%;">Almost every Indian recipe, except Dessert, is tempered
with crackling spices. Anyone who aspires to learn Indian cooking has to learn
the art of tempering. Usually heating is associated with the word temper. But
in the context of Indian cooking, the term ‘temper’ takes on a very different
meaning.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large; line-height: 115%;">Every good cook knows that spices and seasoning can make
or break a dish! For many people, choosing and adding the right spices can be
the most intimidating part of learning a new style of cooking. In traditional
Indian cuisine, spices are an integral part of every dish, not only picking the
right ingredients, but adding them in the right order and using a specific
technique is also crucial. With just a little bit of understanding and
practice, you’ll see how easy it is to add a whole new level of flavor to your
cooking which also has healthy implication.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large; line-height: 115%; text-align: left;">Tempering tends to enhance the original flavors of a
spice, making them bolder and more intense, almost as if they've become surer
of themselves. The aroma of a tadka (tempered spices) is irresistible,it fills
a room instantly, a sort of crazy treat for the nose. </span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large; line-height: 18.3999996185303px; text-align: left;">It's a quick, intense three or four minutes of crazy stirring and definitely not burning the spices, until your housemates, partner and neighbours come in, salivating, and it's done!</span></li>
</ul>
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Vaishali G Kamathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13368641312089476984noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4746605527351922533.post-10691638098658096672014-11-19T17:47:00.000+05:302015-07-01T19:06:29.972+05:30Restraining the natural urge is hazardous !<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRidZOesw7f00xdR7bMEJgVWreTmWWbYiAMaGftZkLZWo2f-r8n7-a9jPEMUya-Usy9DP607cXQ3VljX-A1tWG7ZJqPj7OftVAP3YdyhOTJ4oKv5ANlw-3IV3SdO4P0zOzeydYeg3s8Gqu/s1600/suppression-urges.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="206" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRidZOesw7f00xdR7bMEJgVWreTmWWbYiAMaGftZkLZWo2f-r8n7-a9jPEMUya-Usy9DP607cXQ3VljX-A1tWG7ZJqPj7OftVAP3YdyhOTJ4oKv5ANlw-3IV3SdO4P0zOzeydYeg3s8Gqu/s1600/suppression-urges.jpg" width="400" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">Ayurveda is the holistic ancient science which primarily
focuses on preventive aspect of ailments. Ayurvedic texts attributes the cause
of various disorders to the suppression of natural urges in our body. This is due to
the fact that suppression of natural urges causes vitiation of the humors (doshas)
of the body mainly vata(humor) and further cause accumulation of toxins (ama) in the
body.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Human existence is essentially attributed to constant,
continuous oneness of body, mind and soul. We are alive when these constituents
are together. When soul and mind departs from body, we call it death. In order
to maintain healthy operations of these constituents some urges are created
naturally. These urges are known in ayurveda as ' Vega'.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">For urges to be in action various nerves, muscles, sphincters
take part. The urges can be suppressed for some period by the power of mind. We
can also create some urges by stimulating mind. But, ayurveda does not recommend
this forceful suppression and initiation of urges. It is regarded as one of the
major factor to commence disease process.</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;">Quite unknowingly, or sometimes simply for the sake of public mannerism, the body urges are withheld. Yet, this practice does more harm than good.</span></div>
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<h3 style="text-align: left;">
<b><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> Suppression of urges (Vegadharan)</span></b></h3>
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<b><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></b></div>
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<ul style="text-align: left;">
<li><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">The word ‘vegadharan’ is derived from two words.</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Vega (natural urge) + Dharan (suppression)</span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">The human body is a wonderful complex system which has a
number of ways to balance or eliminate the materials which could be harmful to
the body. In order to facilitate the elimination of these substances, the body
is equipped with urges that appear naturally. These are the natural calls from body
which a person must attend to, as and when they appear in order to maintain the
balance in the body, and to eliminate an element that might cause imbalance.</span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">Most of us suppress these urges (or) on a regular basis.
We wait until a convenient break to eat during our workday regardless of
hunger, or we stifle a sneeze so as not to be rude. We learn our culture’s
prohibitions around certain urges at a young age, like those around flatulence,
belching, or tears. By the time we’re adults, we often don’t register that
we’re suppressing urges; we may not even notice an urge at all, so trained are
we to schedule the activities they are calling for. I know a few people who
won’t feel the need to defecate unless they are near a familiar bathroom (even
if several days pass). Hunger is another common victim here. Many of us never
feel hunger, since we eat according to the clock, and meal time may come well
before or after the urge to eat arises.</span></span></li>
</ul>
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<h3 style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><b> Point to be noted..</b></span></h3>
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<ul style="text-align: left;">
<li><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">This </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">process is timely carried out by body at regular intervals & controlled by nervous </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">system, suppression of which not only stops the elimination of waste products but also brings strain and disorders of nervous system causing many diseases.</span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">This develops in those who have regular habit</span><b style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"> </b><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">of suppressing urges over long period and not instantly.</span></span></li>
</ul>
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<b><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> Which are they?</span></b></h3>
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<ul style="text-align: left;">
<li><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">According to Ayurveda, there are thirteen types of
natural urges in the body which should not be suppressed. Holding these urges
back can cause discomfort to body.</span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">Vega can roughly be classified according to their functions
such as</span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">Excretion (feces, urine, fart, vomit, sneeze, belch,
cough etc.)</span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">Reproduction (semen)</span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">Intake of food and liquid (hunger and thirst)</span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">Expressing emotions (tears)</span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">Refreshing mind n brain (sleep, yawn)</span></span></li>
</ul>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> “Vegan na dharayet vata vin mutra kshavathu truta kshudham<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> nidra Kasa shramashwas jrumbha ashru chardi retasam”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> (Ashtang hriday.su.5/2)<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<h3 style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> <b>13 Non-suppressible natural urges <o:p></o:p></b></span></h3>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
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<ul style="text-align: left;">
<li><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Ashtang hriday and Charak describes 13 non suppressible urges but there is a slight difference that<b> </b></span><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><b> </b>Acharya Charak has
explained ‘Udgara vega’(urge to belch) instead of ‘kasa vega’(urge to cough).</span></span></li>
</ul>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><b> Urge to pass urine (Mutra vega) </b> </span></span></div>
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</div>
<ul style="text-align: left;">
<li><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">This is one of the most commonly withheld urges,
especially with women and children. It needs to be kept in mind that when you
repeatedly hold on to this body’s urgency, you might initially be simply a
receptor of occasional malaise and discomfort. </span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">But be cautious, because you are
unknowingly nearing more threatening afflictions such as: recurrent urinary
infections, pain in the lower abdomen and genitals, and renal stones.</span></span><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span><b style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">Urge to eliminate feces (Purish Vega)</span></b></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">If you ignore the call of the nature, then be ready to
face ailments like cramps in the calf muscles, chronic headaches, chronic
colds, excessive wind formation, pain in abdomen, and even the emergency
condition of heart block may crop up.</span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">The school going children ignore it and they do not go to
toilet early in the morning because they are in a rush to go to school.
Housewives also hold the urge to defecate because they are too busy to serve
the joint families and handling their children. </span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">Men are also busy in travel,
business meetings, jobs and achieving the targets so that they do not give
attention to the urge.</span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">Sometimes the urge comes for a few seconds and then goes
away. This is the time when one should go to toilet without bothering for
anything else. This helps to keep the weight also under control</span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;">Repeatedly Ignoring
this leads to constipation. Constipation is considered to be root cause of most
of the ailments. </span></li>
</ul>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><b> Urge to eliminate semen (Shukra Vega)</b></span><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;"> </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;"> </span></div>
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<ul style="text-align: left;">
<li><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;">Although Ayurveda promotes preservation of semen as it is
considered as shukra dhatu, its forceful suppression is not advised. Sex is an
act which gives pleasure to all living beings on the earth.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;">Suppression of urge
to void semen can cause issues such as genital pain and dwelling, pain in the
heart, impotency, scrotal enlargement and also urinary problems. </span><b style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">Urge to pass out flatus (Vata Vega)</span></b></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;">Repressing the urge to pass wind is unhealthy although it
looks embarrassing .This is another common self-restraint that has its own tale
of health adversities. </span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;">Some routine discomforts caused by suppression are easy fatigue, urinary
retention, pain in the abdomen, improper evacuation of body wastes, and chronic
indigestion.</span></li>
</ul>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><b><span style="font-size: large;"> Urge to vomit ( Chardi Vega)</span></b></span></div>
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</div>
<ul style="text-align: left;">
<li><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">We often tend to eat in a hurry which results in improper
digestion of food. This often shows up as nausea which we invariably suppress.
The defense mechanism of the body always tries to expel the toxins or harmful
substances from the nearest orifice in the form of vomit. </span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">The urge to vomit
when forcibly suppressed retains the toxins in the body causing various
allergic skin disorders, eye disorders, anemia, fever, cough, breathlessness,
dark pigmentation & swelling over the face or eyes and itching all over the
body.</span></span></li>
</ul>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><b><span style="font-size: large;"> Urge to sneeze (Kshavathu Vega)</span></b></span><br />
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</div>
<ul style="text-align: left;">
<li><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">A simple sneeze once in a while won’t affect your
personality. On the contrary, hold on the same and be accessible for maladies
like: occasional headaches, stiffness of the neck, vertigo, and blurred vision.
This small ignorance may in the long run rob you of the perfect sense of
harmony or more dangerously, it may one day turn into disease like facial
paralysis.</span></span></li>
</ul>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><b><span style="font-size: large;"> Urge for eructation/belching (Udgara Vega)</span></b></span><br />
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</div>
<ul style="text-align: left;">
<li><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">Ever gave a thought to controlling your burps so often?
Better do it now. Let me caution you that in the long run, this seemingly
harmless practice might be reason enough for tremors, gripping pain in the
chest, anorexia, and excessive production of flatus.</span></span></li>
</ul>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><b><span style="font-size: large;"> Urge to yawn (Jrumbha Vega)</span></b></span><br />
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</div>
<ul style="text-align: left;">
<li><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">Human brain requires sufficient quantity of oxygen for
normal functioning. When brain is deprived of oxygen the normal urge is to yawn
so that one gulps sufficient quantity of air. Problems caused by controlling
yawning are similar to that of suppressing sneezing.</span></span></li>
</ul>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgo1P_U0xc5eO9bR6rk14z55lmcqbbhrpTRT-95UMPssaCugA4_qVGfyuWalJkQiINb1fxrwKFEiTvnIP1jzkvkDjTI5YzX5MrZkRzz5FY1SB-Y2-hClc1-Ph80UJdIXb2hPZzgONthQOT1/s1600/funny.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgo1P_U0xc5eO9bR6rk14z55lmcqbbhrpTRT-95UMPssaCugA4_qVGfyuWalJkQiINb1fxrwKFEiTvnIP1jzkvkDjTI5YzX5MrZkRzz5FY1SB-Y2-hClc1-Ph80UJdIXb2hPZzgONthQOT1/s1600/funny.jpg" width="236" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><b><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><b><span style="font-size: large;"> Urge to eat (Kshudha Vega)</span></b></span></div>
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</div>
<ul style="text-align: left;">
<li><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Hunger is mostly suppressed for want of time to attend to
other works which we feel are more important.</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Never try to starve your body by ignoring its demand for
food.</span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">Controlling and suppressing natural hunger is believed to be harmful for
health and fitness. This may cause maladies like anorexia, emaciation,
vertigo, giddiness, body aches, depression, and decline in the brainpower.</span></span></li>
</ul>
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><b> Urge to drink (Trushna Vega)</b></span></span><br />
<ul style="text-align: left;">
<li><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Extreme thirst is a common urge for want of clean
drinking water.</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Regular controlling thirst or delaying drinking of water
causes emaciation, generalized debility, deafening, delusion, giddiness and
heart diseases.</span></span></li>
</ul>
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><b> Urge to shed tears or cry (Ashru Vega)</b></span></span><br />
<ul style="text-align: left;">
<li><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">We all control weeping although they threaten to roll
down. Yet we tend to brave out the situation hiding our emotional face.</span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"> Repeatedly holding on to tears may lead to health problems as grave as:
torticollis, eye ailments, chronic headache, chronic nasal congestion, vertigo,
and anorexia.</span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">Cry is a gift of nature to ease the tension from human
mind. Often we feel shy to cry before others and suppress this urge.</span></span></li>
</ul>
<b style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: x-large;"></b><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnRNjnSyKEWV9ZvhE6aOPjhV1xdzMcwa9luiah9aDR0Wp2i7NEOfEbPA_Mmie6PLF0BHll57N5YZQTQ3qUdr_-L4npXnjK_TYodt0fh6X7emadTDbcHL-L16fzzMVJYZ6HfMMDjLnbkU0W/s1600/images+(18).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnRNjnSyKEWV9ZvhE6aOPjhV1xdzMcwa9luiah9aDR0Wp2i7NEOfEbPA_Mmie6PLF0BHll57N5YZQTQ3qUdr_-L4npXnjK_TYodt0fh6X7emadTDbcHL-L16fzzMVJYZ6HfMMDjLnbkU0W/s1600/images+(18).jpg" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><b> Urge to sleep (Nidra Vega)</b></span></span></div>
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</div>
<ul style="text-align: left;">
<li><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;">The sleep is an indicator of good health </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;">as it brings the normalcy in body tissue a</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;">nd relaxes the person.The properly taken s</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;">leep brings happiness, nourishment, strength,</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;">Virility, knowledge and life to the individual.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">Do you occasionally deprive yourself of a good night
sleep? Yes, this is part of our lifestyle today. Blame it on overwork or
nightlife. But let me tell you this is again one of the most deleterious
practices that you are unknowingly inuring yourself with. Problems like:
general malaise, lethargy, indecisiveness, heaviness and pain in the eyes and
head, lack of enthusiasm, habitual insomnia, and digestive maladies might be
just round the corner.</span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">Early to bed; early to rise makes man healthy, wealthy
and wise is a forgotten truth. The gift of globalization has forced man to be
awake all night in order to earn his livelihood.</span></span></li>
</ul>
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><b> Urge for fast breathing by overexertion.(Shrama Shwas Vega)</b></span></span><br />
<ul style="text-align: left;">
<li><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Suppression of
this urge may lead to heart diseases, respiratory tract disorders, and
fainting.</span></span></li>
</ul>
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><b> Urge to cough (Kaas Vega)</b></span></span><br />
<ul style="text-align: left;">
<li><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">Suppression of cough causes more coughing and further
leads to dyspnoea, anorexia, heart disease, emaciation, and hiccups.</span></span></li>
</ul>
<br />
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<b><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> New Urges developed in today’s era<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
</div>
<ul style="text-align: left;">
<li><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">Apart from these urges, there are some urges like menstrual
cycle in females; the trend is on rise to take tablets and injections for
forceful suppression and initiation of menstrual cycle. It is not advisable to
interrupt our natural hormonal cycle again and again. </span></span></li>
</ul>
<br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> </span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgq41ghyphenhyphenWUTRmZjcxQVFVpw7CzGjKbi2JBJYuZf4hxuqURWmtRuFfKkrVmHDYXlr4ltJjkitPO51kGxIs7b3z8h_Ok05qtp4CTmDNTtVWsozW9qRpN4msBneRnyIruKLfD4cgE4PylefIqv/s1600/images+(16).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgq41ghyphenhyphenWUTRmZjcxQVFVpw7CzGjKbi2JBJYuZf4hxuqURWmtRuFfKkrVmHDYXlr4ltJjkitPO51kGxIs7b3z8h_Ok05qtp4CTmDNTtVWsozW9qRpN4msBneRnyIruKLfD4cgE4PylefIqv/s1600/images+(16).jpg" width="309" /></a></span></div>
<br />
<h3 style="text-align: left;">
<b><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> Crime against wisdom (prajnaparadh)</span></b></h3>
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</div>
<ul style="text-align: left;">
<li><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">There’s another larger message for us to take away here.
Suppressing one of these bodily urges is considered a “crime against wisdom,” a
vital concept in Ayurveda called prajnaparadha. </span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">“Crimes against wisdom” refers to
the unhealthy things we do knowingly and deny our inner wisdom for e.g. accepting
the invitation for lunch when you know you really need to rest at home, or eating the
heavy burger when you know it will give you indigestion for sure. </span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">While the plaintive
plea of a bodily urge can be lost in the cacophony of a busy day, it is
comparatively loud next to the quieter voices of inner wisdom that speak of</span><b style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"> </b><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">quieter
needs. If we want to hear</span><b style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"> </b><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">these voices, we have to encourage them. We
can start by recognizing our bodily urges as wisdom, and doing what they ask</span><b style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">.
</b><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Healthy body demands never deceive.</span></span></li>
</ul>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<h3 style="text-align: left;">
<b><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> Initiating an urge is also harmful</span></b></h3>
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</div>
<ul style="text-align: left;">
<li><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">Prematurely initiating these vegas is equally dangerous The
best way is not to suppress or artificially initiate any natural body process.</span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"> Forcibly
initiate an urge, as it can create an imbalance in functioning of vata dosha
(body humor) causing related diseases.</span></span></li>
</ul>
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<h3 style="text-align: left;">
<b><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> Line of treatment for such diseases..</span></b></h3>
<div class="MsoNormal">
</div>
<ul style="text-align: left;">
<li><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">According to Ayurveda, the first line of treatment in all
diseases is "avoid the cause". Therefore, all diseases that can be
caused by the suppression of the various natural urges can be prevented simply
by not suppressing any of them</span><b style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">.</b></span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Remedial measures
for the above mentioned conditions can be done by Ayurveda</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"> physician based on patient’s
findings and history taking.</span></span></li>
</ul>
<br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<h3 style="text-align: left;">
<b><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> Conclusion</span></b></h3>
<div class="MsoNormal">
</div>
<ul style="text-align: left;">
<li><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">In our modern lifestyle, we find ourselves actually
suppressing some or most of the natural urges of the body - we forcefully
suppress the urge to sneeze when sitting in a meeting, the urge to eat when
busy with work, the urge to pass urine while watching a favorite show on
television, or the urge to eliminate flatus (fart) or yawn while in public.</span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">God created animals as well as humans, humans are
presented with intelligence and brain power which is very advance, resulting in
extraordinary discoveries to assist in its functions in many ways, but in this
process we went far away from nature. We are in hurry all the time and we don’t
have time even to respond to natures call.</span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">In today’s cultured & civilized world sneezing,
coughing, yawning, passing flatulence, crying etc. are considered as uncultured
and non civilized manners. But these urges when constantly and repeatedly
suppressed lead to serious disorders. So it is very important to respond to
these urges in time, do not ignore when the next nature call comes, and attend
to it on priority.</span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">This health promoting and sickness preventing guidance is
emphasized only in Ayurveda. It is such a rich piece of health advice, recorded
several millennium ago and still relevant in today’s modern world.</span></li>
</ul>
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Vaishali G Kamathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13368641312089476984noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4746605527351922533.post-84755613953515158712014-11-04T18:22:00.001+05:302017-10-17T01:30:19.711+05:30Wisdom behind eating with your hands…<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><b>Introduction</b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Nowadays,
in many Indian households the practice of eating food with the hands has been
replaced with the use of cutlery ,either spoons or knives and forks, depending
on the dish. It is thought to be more modern, hygienic and convenient; however
most people don't realize that there is a rationale behind eating food with
your hands. Many westerners find eating with hands unhygienic, primitive and
disgusting but the connection of eating food with hands is not only with the
body but also with the mind and soul. <o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">There Is a Philosophy Behind This Indian
Practice of Eating With the Fingers. In India, Eating is perceived as being a
Sensual Activity. The Idea Is That One Should Be Able to Enjoy The Process of
Eating With as Many of the Senses as Possible - Taste, Smell, Sight, and Touch.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">This
is a prime example of how many things within Indian culture may seem weird and
unusual at first glance, but once a closer look is taken it is surprising, but
a vast amount of knowledge is revealed. Some call it ‘primal eating’ since it
is plainly assumed in times before utensils, people used their hands to eat.</span><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Eating
with the hands evokes great emotion, it kindles something very warm and gentle
and caressing. Using a fork is unthinkable in traditional Indian eating. It is
almost like a weapon.</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><b>How it started?</b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Fork
usage primarily came from Italy where eating hot pasta with bare hands was a
problem. During the Renaissance, Italian culture became the trend and the table
manners of eating with fork & knife spread elsewhere. Fork & knife,
make real sense when you have bulk meat that you want to cut. Also, when the
foodstuffs are little more homogenized, these devices work better. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">In western culture
youngsters were expected to master the art of food poking, scooping and
balancing, even though using our hands was so much more convenient and
practical. Over the time they became
conditioned that utensils were the way. The natural instinct to pick food up
with our hands was eventually snuffed out as they became accustomed to and
better at the art of utensil use.</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span>
<b><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Where it is seen?</span></b><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Eating
with the hands is common in many areas of the world, including parts of Asia
and much of Africa and the Middle East.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Indian
foods are so diverse in form and structure that no group of metallic devices
would really do the complete job. You need to use all the dexterity of your
fingers to manage the food. It is not without reason that we are given opposing
thumbs. The kind of food you eat decides the kind of utensils you use. There is
no one size fits all. If it is a burger or a sandwich, you better eat it with
bare hands as it’s difficult to eat every fry with fork and trying to cut the
burger with a knife.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Indian
food tastes best when eaten with your fingers.
There is a tactile dimension added to the eating process. Besides, Indian foods are designed to be
eaten by hand. Breads are to be torn and
wrapped around foods. Rice is
customarily blended with curries so each mouthful is unique. If you eat off a banana leaf trying to use a knife and fork would shred your plate.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><b>Vedic knowledge</b></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">
<span style="background: white;">Eating food with hands is an ancient
practice, one that dates all the way back to the time of the Vedas. The actions
involved in eating have been derived from mudras (hand positions) that are the
basis for yoga,<span class="apple-converted-space"> </span></span>meditation<span class="apple-converted-space"><span style="background: white;"> </span></span><span style="background: white;">and classical Indian dance. According to the Vedas,
the digits on our fingers and toes represent the five elements. It is believed
that these five elements work </span>on the food, cleansing it of any negative
vibes and preparing it for us to eat.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="background: white;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Each finger aids in the transformation of food, before it
passes on to internal digestion. Gathering the fingertips as they touch the
food stimulates the five elements and invites Agni to bring forth the digestive
juices. As well as improving digestion the person becomes more conscious of the
tastes, textures and smells of the foods they are eating, which all adds to the
pleasure of eating.</span></span><br />
<span style="background: white;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="background: white;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><b> Panchamahabhutas in fingers</b></span></span></div>
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<ul style="text-align: left;">
<li><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Thumb:
Fire (Agni) </span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">(You
might have seen children sucking their thumb; this is nature's way of aiding
the digestion at an age when they are unable to chew.)</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Index
finger: Air (Vayu/Varun)</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Middle
finger: Heaven/ Ether /Space(Akash)</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Ring
finger: Earth (Prithvi)</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Little
finger: Water (Jala)</span></li>
</ul>
</div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8H9zp3swM-X9Jn6C4K9Hc36dnrsujnVFTUOJF8vECtvgCAFc2Uf8DRqYBmwiuiNL5PZQ_xa-tqQPxf1nZJzwtj_TpxN_C-284pRyRNExquntaiyHgZPDe1IS_9RNAUoH_zvc8Gl8_EbEc/s1600/mudras.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8H9zp3swM-X9Jn6C4K9Hc36dnrsujnVFTUOJF8vECtvgCAFc2Uf8DRqYBmwiuiNL5PZQ_xa-tqQPxf1nZJzwtj_TpxN_C-284pRyRNExquntaiyHgZPDe1IS_9RNAUoH_zvc8Gl8_EbEc/s400/mudras.jpg" width="310" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><b><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"> </span></b><b><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"> Science behind Eating With Hands</span></b></span></h2>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><strong> Touch:</strong><span class="apple-converted-space" style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"> </span></span></div>
<h4 style="text-align: left;">
<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-weight: normal;">Unlike
when you eat with a spoon or fork, your fingers come in contact with your food
before you put it in your mouth. Nerve endings in your fingers sense the
temperature and texture of the food, thereby prepare your brain for what you
are going to be eating and triggering the release of the appropriate digestive
juices and enzymes.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-weight: normal;">Ayurvedic
wisdom teaches that our bodies can respond to this food-touch by producing the
needed enzymes and digestive juices before the food even meets our lips and
that the fingers themselves even contain enzymes which start the digestive
process upon first touch.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-weight: normal;">When
food is touched with the hands, there is automatically more careful attention
placed on it – how you will retrieve it, what the temperature is, how much you
can carry, how the hand must be held in order to keep the food in it.</span></li>
</ul>
</h4>
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<strong><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"> Attention and satisfaction:<o:p></o:p></span></strong></div>
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<ul style="text-align: left;">
<li><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">When
you eat with cutlery, it is a more mechanical process than when you eat with
your hands. When you eat with your hands, you have to actually pay attention to
what you eat. Using utensils can become more mechanical, done without even
thinking, as there is no actual physical contact with the food until it touches
the lips. </span><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"> </span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Not only do you experience the food more and
enjoy it better, you are also more aware of what you are eating and how much.
Mindless eating is one of the biggest causes of weight gain, whereby eating
carefully is a much healthier option.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">You
often need to look at the food and focus on what you are putting into your
mouth. Mindful eating improves the assimilation of nutrients from the food you
eat, enhances digestion and gives you satisfaction leading to better health and
a calmer, stress-free life.</span></li>
</ul>
<b><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"> Healthy
Bacteria:</span></b><br />
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
</div>
<ul style="text-align: left;">
<li><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">We
have some bacteria, known as normal flora, found on our skin. These bacteria
are not harmful to human instead they protect us from many harmful bacteria
from outside environment. It is required to establish normal flora in various
parts of our body like in mouth, throat, intestine, gut etc for the betterment
of health.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Eating
with spoon for long time can change the arrangement of normal flora. With this,
the pattern of normal flora can be changed in the gut. It results reduced
synchronous immunity to environmental bacterial germs.</span></li>
</ul>
<b><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"> Temperature
sensor:</span></b><br />
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</div>
<ul style="text-align: left;">
<li><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Your
hands also act as a very effective temperature sensor. When you eat with a
spoon or fork, the food goes directly from the plate to your mouth, so you may
not realize if it is too hot.</span><b> </b><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">When we touch our food before putting it
into our mouths the millions of nerve endings on the tips of our fingers are
getting a temperature and texture reading that is immediately sent to the stomach.
So you are less likely to put food that is too hot into your mouth, effectively
preventing you from scalding your tongue.</span></span></li>
</ul>
<b><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"> Limitations
of spoon n fork</span></b><br />
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<ul style="text-align: left;">
<li><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Dosa is one of the famous southern delicacies. It is 10 times thinner than a pancake and has
to be eaten with sauces of different densities. You need a superhuman effort to
use a fork to eat this. </span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Many of the Indian foods come stuffed. Here is Vada pav
(equivalent to burger) It’s not possible to eat vada pav with spoon n fork </span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">In
short, there are liquids, semisolid</span><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">, powders, stuffed food, extremely thin
layers and so on in our cuisine. A combination of this is too much to handle
for a knife & fork.</span></span></li>
</ul>
<b><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"> <span style="font-size: large;">Etiquette of eating with hand</span></span></b><br />
<b><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: medium;"> Cleanliness of hands</span></span></b><br />
<ul style="text-align: left;">
<li><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Hand
Is Most Hygienic, When You Wash Properly with particular attention paid to the
fingernails. Having long fingernails in India is considered unhygienic.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Eating
with one’s hands does automatically create a greater need for napkins and
soap.</span><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">There is really no getting around
the cleanliness issue when eating with ones hands.</span><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">However, when approaching food with the
knowledge that utensils will not be used there becomes a higher likelihood that
hand washing will compulsorily take place before the meal. </span></span></li>
</ul>
<b><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"> Good
Manners</span></b><br />
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</div>
<ul style="text-align: left;">
<li><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">There
are conventions of good manners when eating with the fingers, but they do change
a bit from area to area.</span><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"> </span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">The most basic
is that in the North of India it is polite to dirty only the first two segments
of your fingers.</span><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Since Northerners eat a
lot of breads and generally have drier curries, this doesn't pose much
difficulty.</span><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"> </span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">In the South, where they eat
lots more rice, and enjoy very soupy curries, you can get your whole hand into
the action.</span><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Try not to get carried away,
though.</span><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Having curry juices running down
toward the elbow would be considered a bit low class.</span></span></li>
</ul>
<b><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"> Use
your right hand</span></b><br />
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</div>
<ul style="text-align: left;">
<li><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">It
is very important to eat with your right hand only.</span><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"> </span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Your left hand is reserved for other
functions (toilet related) and should not handle food, especially other
people's food.</span><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"> </span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Usually, your left hand
rests on the table or your lap while you eat. Though it is acceptable to take a
piece of bread, say, in your left hand and tear off pieces with your right, it
is better to only use the right hand, pinning the bread with your little finger
and tearing with your thumb and forefinger.</span><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"> </span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">You can use your clean left hand to serve yourself (using a utensil)
or pass a plate of food.</span><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Don't plunge
either hand into food in a communal serving dish.</span></span></li>
</ul>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><b><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"> For
left <o:p></o:p></span></b><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><b>handers</b></span></span><br />
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</div>
<ul style="text-align: left;">
<li><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">The
question of what a left-handed person should do is a bit complicated.</span><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">If it is at all possible, try and eat with
your right hand.</span><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"> </span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">If it is too awkward,
use the left, but perhaps explain to your dinner companions that you are left
handed and cannot eat with your right hand.</span><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"> </span></span></li>
</ul>
<b><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"> Things
to remember</span></b><br />
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</div>
<ul style="text-align: left;">
<li><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Don’t
bring the plate to your mouth; bring the food to your mouth. Lower your head
instead.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Take
small amounts of food each time.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Make
sure the food does not touch your palms and don’t put your fingers into your
mouth.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Use
your thumbs to push the food inside.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Don’t
lick your fingers.</span></li>
</ul>
<b><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"> <span style="font-size: large;">Conclusion</span></span></b><br />
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<ul style="text-align: left;">
<li><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">The
hands are considered the most valuable organ of action(karmendriya). As mentioned in the
given below vedic prayer…</span></li>
</ul>
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"> <b>Karaagre Vasate Lakshmi Karamadhye Sarasvati
|</b></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><b> Karamuule Tu Govinda Prabhaate Karadarshanam
||</b><o:p></o:p></span><br />
<ul style="text-align: left;">
<li><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Meaning-At the top of the palm dwell Devi
Lakshmi ( goddess of wealth) and at the middle of the hand dwell Devi Saraswati
(goddess of knowledge) , At the base of the hand dwell Sri Govinda (Lord Vishnu
is the Sustainer of life) ; Therefore
one should Look at one’s Hands Early in
the Morning and contemplate on them. Hence, this verse suggests that the
divinity lies in our hands.)</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Many things within Hindu culture seem weird and
unusual but once we go deep into it, we find that a surprising and vast amount
of knowledge is hidden in it.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Indian
mothers like to feed their babies by hand. And there is really nothing in the
world as tasty as a ball of food fed to you at any age by your mother. Its
composition is perfectly and instinctively calibrated by her fingers. You may
have noticed that elders in the family hardly ever use utensils to measure all
the different type of masala(spices), and would instead prefer to use their
hands to measure the quantity instead.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Using
our hands to eat is a well established tradition and a fact none of us are
ashamed of. Millionaire here eats the same way a pauper does. You eat with
conviction and passion when using your hands.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Eating
with your hands is not only potentially healthier than utensil eating; it can
be a lot more fun! Next time you have a
big meal with your friends or family, try serving it up without spoon n fork
and see the response. It’s sure to make for lively conversation and a lot of
laughter!</span></li>
</ul>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"> Stay healthy !</span></div>
<br />
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<br /></div>
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Vaishali G Kamathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13368641312089476984noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4746605527351922533.post-72606346700521347212014-10-29T18:28:00.001+05:302014-10-29T18:28:50.823+05:30Betel leaf – Golden heart of nature.<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;">Have you ever thought whether nature has a heart? If yes, then here’s your answer. The heart shaped Betel leaf is beckoned as the ‘Golden heart of nature’. Dating back to 7000 BC, Betel is one among those oldest divine herbs bestowed on mankind. Besides numerous health benefits, these appealing leaves are a symbol of status and hospitality for greeting Kings, nobles and guests in the cultural heritage of India. Botanically called as Piper betle, Betel vine is a member of the pepper family Piperaceae. It’s an evergreen and perennial creeper. </span></div>
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Significance of leaves has been explained in relationship to every sphere of human life including social, culture, religious and is very much relevant even in modern days. The plant, by itself, is said to have originated in India. Betel Leaf is cultivated in majority of South and Southeast Asia, and is a much esteemed leaf across the dozen nations. In India, the leaf is considered auspicious and is used as an auspicious exchange material not only during ceremonies, but also when fixing deals, business transactions and even marriage alliances.</div>
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The betel plant is called nagvalli in Sanskrit language meaning serpentine growth. The betel plant is a slender creeper which has alternate, heart shaped, smooth, lustrous dark green leaves with pointed apex. Leaves are edible part of plant which is bitter in taste but aromatic. Betel leaves are not famous in the western world because western food habits are much different than that of eastern. In India and few other Asian countries it is common practice to eat masala pan (betel leaves stuffed with sliced betel nut and other spices) after food. </div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Vernacular Names </span></h3>
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Hindi/Bengali/Urdu- Paan</div>
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Sanskrit- Tambul, Saptashira, Nagavallari, Nagavalli and Nagini</div>
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English - Betel pepper, Betel vine and Betel.</div>
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Tamil- Vettrilai</div>
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Telugu –Tamalapaku</div>
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Marathi- Vidyache paan or Naginiche paan</div>
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Gujarati- Naagarvel na paan </div>
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Kannada- veeleyada yele </div>
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Malayalam – vettila</div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> History</span></h3>
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<li style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">In these ancient texts Betel leaves were referred as Tambulika, Tambuladhikara, Tambuladayini, and Tambuladyaka and so on. Ayurvedic encyclopedias like Charaka Samhita and Sushruta Samhita have also indicated the many uses of Betel leaves.The primeval Ayurvedic texts also highlight the aphrodisiac properties of Betel leaf that aid in treating male and female reproductive problems.</span></span></li>
<li style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">The Chinese Traditional medicine also used Betel leaves for its warm and spicy nature that aided in the treatment of cough, itching, inflammation, headache and respiratory infections. Betel leaves were used in various medical preparations of the Unani medicine and was used as a brain tonic, and in treating throat infections, cleansing the blood and for enhancing the appetite.Toward the 13th century, European traveler Marco Polo recorded betel chewing among kings and nobles in India.</span></span></li>
<li style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">According to the study of numerous Anthropologists, the traces of Betel leaves were said have been found in spirit caves of Northwest Thailand, which dates back to 5500 to 7000 B.C. The oldest historical book of Sri Lanka, ‘Mahawamsa’ written in Pali talks about the leaves of the Betel vine. There are certain other findings in human skeletons dating back to 3000 BC in countries like Philippines and Indonesia, indicating the use of Betel leaves even before thousands of years.</span></span></li>
<li style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">Betel is a native of central and eastern Malaysia. It spread at a very early date throughout tropical Asia and later to Madagascar and East Africa. In India, it is widely cultivated in Tamil Nadu, Madhya Pradesh, West Bengal, Orissa, Maharashtra and Uttar Pradesh. Offering betel morsel to guests in Indian subcontinent is a common courtesy. Recent studies have shown that betel leaves contain tannins, sugar and diastases and an essential oil. The essential oil is a light yellow liquid of aromatic odor and sharp burning in taste. It contains a phenol called chavicol which has powerful antiseptic properties.</span></span></li>
<li style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">The traditional practice of chewing Betel leaves with areca nut has been mentioned in the pre-historic books of the Indian mythology and the most predominant among them are Raghuvamsa written by Kalidas and Kamsutra written by Vatsyayana. In one of the oldest text named Sakta-tantra, Betel leaves have been denoted as one of the important ways of attaining siddhi or abundant blessings from the Almighty.</span></span></li>
<li style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">Betel leaves were also used in the traditional healing system for treating various health disorders like conjunctivitis, leucorrhea, rheumatism, ringworm, constipation, infertility, bad breath, ottorrhoea, cough and asthma. Singers chewed these leaves to enhance their voice.There is archaeological evidence that the betel leaves have been chewed along with the areca nut since very ancient times</span></span></li>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;">Culture n tradition</span></h3>
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<li style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: large;">Betel leaves are not exclusive to holy deeds. They play an important role in most Asian cultures, from India to the Philippines."The betel begins the conversation", is a saying in Vietnam that refers to how the practice of chewing betel in formal occasions can "break the ice". In traditional Vietnamese weddings, the groom offers the bride's parents betel leaves and areca nuts (among other things that hopefully include wads of cash) in exchange for the bride. The betel and areca are such important symbols of love and marriage, that in Vietnamese the phrase "matters of betel and areca" is synonymous with marriage. </span></li>
<li style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">Offering betel leaves with areca nut to guests in India is a common courtesy. In fact, it is safe to say that all traditional ceremonies governing the lives of Hindus use betel and areca. In India, when paying a priest, the money is placed next to betel leaves and set by his side. </span></span></li>
<li style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">Any discussion about betel leaf needs to include those cosmic seasonings that make up the renowned betel trio: the areca nut (often inaccurately called betel nut) and hydrated or mineral-slaked lime (calcium hydroxide) these three ingredients served together is known as the "betel chew" or "betel quid" and also represents the Balinese trinity of Brahma, Shiva and Vishnu. The downside is that betel chew tends to produce a brilliant red color on the lips, a look that was once prized by Indians and who knows, maybe it was a forerunner to lipstick. </span></span></li>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> Plant description and Cultivation</span></h3>
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<li style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">A very attractive spice, fast growing, perennial, evergreen to 1 meter, with creeping stem branches, dark green, glossy, heart-shaped leaves to 15cm long. White catkin flowers turn into green/brown when mature. Propagation is easy by root division or cuttings, preferably taken in spring or summer. </span></span></li>
<li style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">Being a creeper it requires a pole or a compatible tree to grow. Fertile as well a high lands are best for cultivating betel leaves. Saline, waterlogged and alkaline soils are good for growing this plant. Betel leaf plant prefers a semi-shade position. It makes a good under storey plant. Regular feeding and watering will keep it growing very lush. In about 3–6 months time, vines grow to a height 150-180 cm. At this stage branching is noticed in the vines. Leaves are removed along with the petiole with the right thumb. Once harvesting is commenced, it is continued almost every day or week. The interval of harvesting varies from 15 days to about a month till the next lowering of vines. </span></span></li>
<li style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">The betel leaf is cultivated mostly in the deltaic region of South and Southeast Asia stretching from Bangladesh to Indonesia. The harvested leaves are consumed locally or exported to other parts of Asia, the Middle East, Europe, and the United States. The harvested leaves are consumed locally and exported to other parts of Asia, the Middle East, Europe, and the Americas. Betel is grown and cultivated as an important crop in rural Bangladesh. </span></span></li>
<li style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">An analysis of the betel leaf shows it to consist of moisture 85.4 per cent, protein 3.1 per cent, fat 0.8 per cent, minerals 2.3 per cent, fiber 2.3 per cent and carbohydrates 6.1 per cent per 100 grams. Its minerals and vitamin contents are calcium, carotene, thiamine, riboflavin, niacin and vitamin C. Its calorific value is 44. </span></span></li>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;"><b>Ayurvedic viewpoint</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;">In ayurveda, Tambool or Tambuli has been mentioned in numerous ayurvedic texts including Charaka Samhita and Sushruta Samhita, where these glossy leaves have been prescribed for enhancing metabolic functions, reducing inflammation, expelling mucus, strengthening the heart muscles, improving appetite, purifying blood, treating ulcer, nosebleed, acne, bronchitis, halitosis, bleeding gums, headache and reproductive problems. </span></div>
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According to ayurveda it contains </div>
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Guna (properties) – tikshna (sharp), ruksha (dry) and laghu(light) </div>
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Rasa (taste) - katu (pungent) and tikta (bitter) </div>
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Virya (potency) – ushna (hot) </div>
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It pacifies kapha and vata dosha and increases pitta dosha in the body. It is an effective anti wormal agent because of its pungent taste. It is an excellent anti infectious agent again because of its pungent taste. It helps in normalizing the digestive tract hence is very effective in maintaining the digestive system because of its light properties. It provides strength to the heart and tones up the cardiovascular system. It also helps in expelling out the mucus form the respiratory tract because of its hot potency. It is also a good aphrodisiac agent. </div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">How to select leaf</span></h3>
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Ensure that the leaves are green, fresh and free from any tear, blemish, dirt etc. It should not show any signs of wilting.</div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">How to store</span></h3>
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It is best to use fresh leaves. However, if you wish to store for more than 2 to 3 days, wrap in a newspaper and store under refrigerated conditions. </div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Part used – <span style="font-weight: normal;"> leaf</span></span></h3>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Health benefits </span></h3>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> Digestive system </span></h3>
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<li style="text-align: justify;">Betel leaf is in use from ancient times as a digestive, anti-flatulent and mouth freshener. It induces secretion of saliva and digestive juices and generates peristaltic wave which is very important for digestion.</li>
<li style="text-align: justify;">Fomenting the stomach (in case of children) with heated leaf of betel cures stomach ailments. Boil 3 betel leaves with little black pepper in 200 ml water and strain it. Taking 2 tsp. of this decoction twice a day cures indigestion.</li>
<li style="text-align: justify;">In the case of constipation in children, a suppository made of the stalk of betel leaf dipped in castor oil can be introduced in the rectum. This instantly relieves constipation.</li>
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Reproductive system</h4>
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<li style="text-align: justify;">Betel leaf is considered aphrodisiac i.e. an agent who stimulates sexual desire. It is a common practice to offer betel quid(masalapan) to newly married couple before retiring to bed. It adds to love making and pleasures is a common belief.</li>
<li style="text-align: justify;">To prevent or treat vaginal discharge and reduce itching of the vagina betel leaf decoction is used to wash the vagina.</li>
<li style="text-align: justify;">Prepare decoction with 2.5 liters of water and 5-6 betel leaves (crushed) reduced it to about 2 liter. Let the decoction cool for some time. After that this water should be used by women to wash genital organs. Use this method on a regular basis until the vaginal discharge in women is reduced.</li>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> Urinary system</span></h3>
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<li><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large; text-align: justify;">Betel leaf juice is credited with diuretic properties in scanty and obstructed flow of urine. Betel leaf juice given with milk or honey helps in easing urination.</span></li>
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Respiratory system</h4>
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<li style="text-align: justify;">Betel leaves are useful in cough syndrome in children and aged people. The leaves, soaked in mustard oil and warmed, may be applied to the chest to relieve cough and difficulty in breathing. </li>
<li style="text-align: justify;">Juice extracted from crushed Betel leaves mixed with honey is another traditional remedy for loosening tough phlegm deposits and relieving severe cough</li>
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Weakness of Nerves/ Pain/ Trauma</h4>
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<li style="text-align: justify;">Ayurvedic texts have recommended the use of betel leaves in the treatment of severe pain and aches, mainly originating from the nervous system. This pain-relieving attribute of Betel leaf is due its analgesic, numbing and cooling properties.</li>
<li style="text-align: justify;">Betel leaves are beneficial in the treatment of nervous pains, nervous exhaustion and debility. The juice of a few betel leaves, with a teaspoon of honey, will serve as a good tonic. A teaspoon of this can be taken twice a day.</li>
<li style="text-align: justify;">A hot poultice of the leaves or their juice mixed with some bland oil such as refined coconut oil can be applied to the loins with beneficial results in lumbago.</li>
<li style="text-align: justify;">In trauma/contusion betel leaf can be a good solution though of a temporary nature. Tying betel leaf with turmeric on minor injuries helps to stop bleeding.</li>
<li style="text-align: justify;">The betel leaf has analgesic and cooling properties. It can be applied with beneficial results over the painful area to relieve intense headache.</li>
<li style="text-align: justify;">Applied locally, betel leaves are beneficial in the treatment of inflammation such as arthritis and orchitis (inflammation of the testes) etc.</li>
<li style="text-align: justify;">Betel leaves can be used to heal wounds. The juice of a few leaves should be extracted and applied on the wound. Then a betel leaf should be wrapped over and bandaged. The wound will heal up within 2 days.</li>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;">General Uses</span></h3>
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<li style="text-align: justify;">Juice of betel leaves with honey or gulkand (rose pedal marmalade) is a good tonic.</li>
<li style="text-align: justify;">Consuming betel quid after food gives relief from exhaustion, travel fatigue or mental tensions.</li>
<li style="text-align: justify;">The herb is also an effective remedy for boils. A leaf is gently warmed till it gets softened, and is then coated with a layer of castor oil. The oiled leaf is spread over the inflamed part. This leaf has to be replaced, every few hours.After a few applications, the boil will rupture draining all the purulent matter. The application can be made at night and removed in the morning.</li>
<li style="text-align: justify;">The application of leaves smeared with oil is said to promote secretion of milk when applied on the breasts during lactation.</li>
<li style="text-align: justify;">It also supports healthy gums, assists strong teeth and combat germs and other micro-organisms that cause oral infections. According to numerous research studies, Betel leaves and its essential oil are the best remedies for treating plaque, dental decay, dental caries and other oral infections caused by bacteria and other harmful micro-organisms.</li>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> Betel leaf Essential oil Uses </span></h3>
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<li style="text-align: justify;">Gargling every morning and night with one cup of warm water mixed with 1 drop of Betel leaf oil can act as a protective shield against tooth decay, plaque, halitosis or unpleasant odor in the mouth, harmful effects of bacteria, germs and other oral pathogens. This also helps in sweetening your breath, arresting oral bleeding, strengthening your gums and fortifying your teeth.</li>
<li style="text-align: justify;">Certain studies also state that Betel leaves and its extracts also possess bactericidal activity on various urinary tract pathogenic bacteria It also contains anti-fungal activity and proves challenging to fungi and the resulting fungal infections. This property of Betel leaf oil helps in treating related skin problems like acne, wounds becoming septic, ringworms, athletes’ foot and certain other infections.</li>
<li style="text-align: justify;">Gently applying 2 drops of Betel leaf oil blended with 1 drop of Peppermint oil and 1 drop of turmeric oil along with 2 ml of coconut oil on the affected parts can help in relieving wounds and infections quickly along by combating and preventing the growth of destructive microbes. You can also add 2 drops of Betel leaf oil to your bathing water to protect you from germs, prevent body odor and grant ultimate refreshment all through the day.</li>
<li style="text-align: justify;">The essential oil extracted from these aromatic betel leaves are also claimed to possess carminative, intestinal, anti-flatulent and gastro-protective properties .Massaging your abdomen with 2 drops of Betel leaf oil mixed with 2 drops of Peppermint oil and 2 ml of sesame oil can be an excellent digestive assistance.</li>
<li style="text-align: justify;">Inhaling the warm aroma of Betel leaf oil by adding 1 drop of this oil to your hankie or a tissue paper can aid in treating constipation, diarrhea, gas pain, flatulence, intestinal spasms and sluggish digestion. Certain researches have also established that the essential oil of Betel leaf has been highly effective against hookworms and tapeworms.</li>
<li style="text-align: justify;">Betel leaf oil has expectorant properties that aids in expelling accumulated mucus and phlegm especially in the lungs and the respiratory passages. Adding 2 drops of Betel leaf oil in steam inhalation and inhaling this medicated steam can help in treating nasal congestion, chest congestion and cough.</li>
<li style="text-align: justify;">Mix 2 drops of Betel leaf oil with 2 drops of Eucalyptus oil and 2 ml of mustard oil and warms it slightly. Gently massage your throat, chest and back with this medicated oil to eject excess water deposits in the body leading to the amassing of phlegm and mucus deposits.</li>
<li style="text-align: justify;">Rheumatism is often regarded as a health disorder caused mainly due to kapha vitiations. Excess of kapha dosha due to changes in food habits, climatic conditions and other lifestyle changes leads to stagnation of water in the system, built up of toxins, inflammation, pain, irritation and certain other symptoms. Betel leaf essential oil with its warming properties increases the heat energy in the system and reduces excess of kapha dosha.</li>
<li style="text-align: justify;">Massaging the affected parts with 3 drops of Betel leaf oil mixed with 1.5 ml of coconut oil can help in alleviating the surplus water deposits in the system by promoting frequent urination with its diuretic properties. You can also add 4 to 5 drops of this oil in hot or cold compress and use it gently on the painful parts. This can also help in relieving headache, lumbago or lower back pain, arthritis pain, swelling, redness and muscular tension.</li>
<li style="text-align: justify;">Betel leaf juice mixed with turmeric powder is a trusted folklore medicine for treating wounds, boils, acne, cuts and other minor injuries. With its powerful antiseptic and antimicrobial properties, Betel leaf and its essential oil have been proven effective in treating allergies, skin ulceration, body odor, itchiness, acne and other skin infections. Mix 2 drops of Betel leaf oil with 2 drops of Lavender oil and 2 ml of Jojoba oil and applies it on the infected parts and leaves it for half an hour. Wash it thoroughly with a mild skin cleanser.</li>
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<div style="text-align: justify;">
<b style="font-weight: bold;">Note</b><b>-</b>Avoid ingesting or using essential oils internally. Make sure that you dilute essential oils in suitable carrier oils before topical application. This is because pure and organic essential oils are the vital life force of plants and are highly concentrated liquids. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi53mLF4mdNajNcpBXj0FnZQw_AhsiUrZp0SeXKPxFj0pPZpazSPdLzE_OyY-zdwnapojYQle1svCVv9JLNt2sGjq6YauoyI_oMlGOiMnHMzI_L_7xOBQaVW25ozMFvrx2fyCZfRRTQmgdr/s1600/Betel2_20130713-IMG_4397-Corrected-676x450.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi53mLF4mdNajNcpBXj0FnZQw_AhsiUrZp0SeXKPxFj0pPZpazSPdLzE_OyY-zdwnapojYQle1svCVv9JLNt2sGjq6YauoyI_oMlGOiMnHMzI_L_7xOBQaVW25ozMFvrx2fyCZfRRTQmgdr/s1600/Betel2_20130713-IMG_4397-Corrected-676x450.jpg" height="213" width="320" /></a></div>
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</span><h3 style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> Culinary Uses</span></h3>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><ul style="text-align: left;">
<li style="text-align: justify;">Betel leaves are traditionally used in the preparation of "Pan"(betel quid). Betel leaves are smeared with calcium hydroxide/ slaked lime/ chuna and filed with areca nut/ supari, mukhwas, sugar coated confectionary and dry coconut. It is then neatly folded and served at the end of the meal. The folding of the leaves and presentation differs from region to region.</li>
<li style="text-align: justify;">Combine chopped betel leaves with gram flour, spices and water to make fritters. They go well as an afternoon snack.</li>
<li style="text-align: justify;">Try a unique Thai salad using betel leaves, peanuts and carrots. Make a marinade with soya sauce, Thai peppers, tamarind pulp, palm sugar, lemon juice and mint leaves and pours over the betel leaves and carrot mixture.</li>
<li style="text-align: justify;">Vietnamese cuisine uses betel leaves to wrap meats, fish, sea food which is further grilled, steamed etc. <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7ALnEM_VVeCB5fLlxsXDtfM4t8qkU5o08SHzUhbD6l0RRZlpEivtTZCUmFrlGph3lUm3hVrlCm5vldIEVQ1KOipDWL6LcBWBp9l32vkNX2coBm1McEpoQcEHw0-Ivt-W42hWWvQuPYhzf/s1600/Pan3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7ALnEM_VVeCB5fLlxsXDtfM4t8qkU5o08SHzUhbD6l0RRZlpEivtTZCUmFrlGph3lUm3hVrlCm5vldIEVQ1KOipDWL6LcBWBp9l32vkNX2coBm1McEpoQcEHw0-Ivt-W42hWWvQuPYhzf/s1600/Pan3.jpg" height="233" width="400" /></a></div>
</li>
</ul>
</span><h3 style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> Betel quid </span></h3>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><ul style="text-align: left;">
<li style="text-align: justify;">Whether they are busy or idle, they chew; whether they sit or walk, they chew. Teeth or no teeth, they chew. From almost infancy to old age, chews betel. Chewing betel quid the fourth most popular psychoactive substance in the world after tobacco, alcohol and caffeine exposes its 600 million users to substances that act as direct carcinogens in the mouth. </li>
<li style="text-align: justify;">Although use of BL was wide spread in ancient times, but there has not been strong evidence of incidence of oral cancer in ancient times. </li>
<li style="text-align: justify;">Chewing habits of people have changed over time. The betel leaves are chewed together in a wrapped package along with areca nut and mineral slaked lime. It is not known when these two different stimulant substances were first put together. Catechu (kattha) and other flavoring substances and spices were also added subsequently. </li>
<li style="text-align: justify;">The lime acts to keep the active ingredient in its freebase or alkaline form, thus enabling it to enter the bloodstream via sublingual absorption. The areca nut contains the alkaloid arecoline, which promotes salivation (the saliva is stained red), and is itself a stimulant. This combination, known as a "betel quid", has been used for several thousand years. </li>
<li style="text-align: justify;">Betel quid with or without tobacco, in an addictive psycho-stimulating and euphoria-inducing formulation with adverse health effects. Betel is notable for staining the teeth of regular users. Areca nut is considered carcinogenic when consumed with tobacco. Other substances are often added to the betel quid, in particular spices, such as cardamom, saffron, cloves, aniseed, turmeric, mustard or sweeteners according to local preferences. Numerous commercially produced mixtures containing some or all of these ingredients are also available in various parts of the world. </li>
<li style="text-align: justify;">Smearing a dash of lime on a betel leaf and adding quarter teaspoon each of grated dry coconut, a pinch of peppermint extract, fennel and a tiny spot of rose preserve(gulkand)and aniseeds on to the leaf, and folding it in the form of a quid and savoring it after a heavy meal, has its own health benefits. Betel leaves are an excellent aid for refreshing the breath instantly even after heavy meals or especially after having food items that may possess strong odor like garlic, onion and non-veg food. </li>
<li style="text-align: justify;">On chewing, the betel leaf induces salivation. Saliva fights bacteria in the mouth, and helps reduce plaque formation on teeth. Further, the Betel leaf contains compounds that act as heart beat regulators, relaxing the blood vessels. </li>
<li style="text-align: justify;">It has been reported that expectant mothers, who chew betel quid, during pregnancy, significantly increase adverse outcomes for the baby. The effects of betel quid and areca nut were similar to those reported for mothers who consume alcohol or tobacco during pregnancy. Lower birth weights, reduced birth length and early term were found to be significantly higher. </li>
</ul>
</span><h3 style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Precautions</span></h3>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;">Cancer of the mouth and lips has been found to be more frequent in areas where the betel chewing habit is widely prevalent. Other ill-effects of pan-chewing like dyspepsia, pyorrhea, cancer of the tongue and cheeks have also been observed amongst excessive chewers. </span></div>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large; text-align: justify;">Eating them with tobacco is injurious to health. Overeating of masala pan is bad for oral hygiene. It can start dental caries. It can be a cause of gingivitis, stomatitis, leukoplakia i.e. formation of white spots or patches on the mucous membrane or tongue and oral cancer. If one will take due care of oral hygiene after eating pan/masala pan etc, then betel leaves are a boon to digestive system. Do not add more than a dab of lime, and be aware that chewing betel on an empty stomach may be unpleasant.</span><div>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large; text-align: justify;"><b>Conclusion</b> </span><div>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large; text-align: justify;">The never-ending list of health properties of betel leaves is about as long and intriguing as the River Ganges. In short, Betel leaf is a storehouse of several chemicals that are of much pharmaceutical value. Studies are on, to isolate and identify each molecule and study their effects. It is hoped that several more medicinal properties of this wonderful leaf are yet to be revealed. However one precaution to be taken is to avoid chewing the leaf with areca nut and tobacco, instead, try some variety spices including cloves, cardamom, and cinnamon and enjoy its health benefits. </span><div>
<h4 style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;">Disclaimer</span></h4>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">This article is meant only for the use of education and information. It is not intended to cure or prevent any medical condition or replace any prescription medicines. This is only an initiative to spread the time-honored wisdom and medical excellence of ayurveda. </span></span></div>
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Vaishali G Kamathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13368641312089476984noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4746605527351922533.post-62530689033563683512014-04-30T15:49:00.000+05:302014-04-30T15:54:52.742+05:30 Ginger - The natural wonder root.<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<b><span style="font-family: 'Baskerville Old Face', serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></b><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUp8gbF9Cmo_hKBY3ZxqCJ6i-c-hONyxzHyw98FNnvh8CvsLYDmm5QZbrsbC9GJwB88Vbv6Ns7DEe82sSnx0mg4gWWrxqz0ZJ40piThyphenhyphendVRCSmaXMJCFDYegkLDpvBhauhn9SdHIez5Njt/s1600/a-ginger-root-and-bowl.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUp8gbF9Cmo_hKBY3ZxqCJ6i-c-hONyxzHyw98FNnvh8CvsLYDmm5QZbrsbC9GJwB88Vbv6Ns7DEe82sSnx0mg4gWWrxqz0ZJ40piThyphenhyphendVRCSmaXMJCFDYegkLDpvBhauhn9SdHIez5Njt/s1600/a-ginger-root-and-bowl.jpg" height="287" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: 'Baskerville Old Face', serif;">This wonder spice has time-tested,
digestion-friendly properties, in addition to its numerous other health
benefits. In India, ginger is liberally used in daily life. Ginger-infused tea
is a household favorite, and its grandma’s antidote of choice for battling cold
and flu.</span><span style="font-family: 'Baskerville Old Face', serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: 'Baskerville Old Face', serif;">Ginger is probably one of the world's favorite
medicines and cooking ingredients. Ginger root has been used in Ayurveda for
centuries and its fresh pungent flavor makes it an essential spice for Indian
and Asian cuisine. This vigorous herb helps in relieving arthritis, colic, diarrhea,
and heart conditions, common cold, flu-like symptoms, headaches, and even
painful menstrual periods.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: 'Baskerville Old Face', serif;">While this thick, tuberous root may not look
very attractive, its pungent rather lemony taste has made it one of the most
popular culinary spices all over the world, enlivening otherwise rather bland
dishes and transforming them into meals fit for a king or queen! It is said
that because of its heavenly taste ginger was found growing in the Garden of
Eden.</span><span style="font-family: 'Baskerville Old Face', serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: 'Baskerville Old Face', serif;">Ginger's culinary qualities are a delight,
but its health benefits are simply stunning.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: 'Baskerville Old Face', serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">History<o:p></o:p></span></span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Baskerville Old Face', serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">With green stems that can grow to a metre
high, the plant is valued for its rhizomes that can be consumed fresh or dried.
Ginger has been used in Asian, Arabic and Indian cultures as an herbal medicine
since ancient times. While it originated in South-East Asia, it spread across
Asia and other tropical regions and was exported to ancient Rome from India.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Baskerville Old Face', serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">Ginger reached the west at least 2000 years
ago and was imported in a preserved form. This flavorsome plant is used in many
recipes and, in some Asian cuisines, it is pickled and served as an
accompaniment.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Baskerville Old Face', serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijBZa0LjiJ3Q6cua3Mu-38_EwiAb0z6YfkF9rfRg9Hr3Mp0W0t25V6PO4Wl-BuMCraWDwCvCnO21H-zFOW5VyrYPR6Z45FescOjght1_xGSg813zQOr6KyY_Izcp8K8jZPWf3uM_ZLMziL/s1600/images+%25281%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="font-family: 'Baskerville Old Face', serif; font-size: x-large; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijBZa0LjiJ3Q6cua3Mu-38_EwiAb0z6YfkF9rfRg9Hr3Mp0W0t25V6PO4Wl-BuMCraWDwCvCnO21H-zFOW5VyrYPR6Z45FescOjght1_xGSg813zQOr6KyY_Izcp8K8jZPWf3uM_ZLMziL/s1600/images+%25281%2529.jpg" height="266" width="400" /></a></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: 'Baskerville Old Face', serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">Plant
Description<o:p></o:p></span></span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Baskerville Old Face', serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">Ginger has a perennial rhizome or stems which
creeps and increases in size underground. Roots grow from the bottom of the
rhizome and shoots from the upper surface. In the spring it sends up from its
rhizome a green reed-like stalk about 2 feet high, with narrow lanceolate
leaves. These leaves die back after the growing season. The flowering stalk
rises directly from the rhizome with the leaves and consists of an oblong spike
with scalloped green bracts. From each bract one or more white or
yellowish-green flowers is produced, blooming for several days. The underground
rhizome is the source of commercial "ginger root".<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Baskerville Old Face', serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">The healing property of ginger comes from the
volatile oils, such as gingerols, that are responsible for its strong taste.
The rhizomes from younger ginger plants are generally used for cooking because
the older the plant is, the more essential oils are present and the stronger
the flavour. Rhizomes from older plants are harvested for medicinal uses.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: 'Baskerville Old Face', serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">Botanical
name<o:p></o:p></span></span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Baskerville Old Face', serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">Ginger or ginger root is the rhizome of the
plant Zingiber officinale, consumed as a delicacy, medicine, or spice.<b><o:p></o:p></b></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Baskerville Old Face', serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">The plant's botanical name is thought to be
derived from its Sanskrit name singabera which means "horn shaped," a
physical characteristic that ginger reflects.It lends its name to its genus and
family Zingiberaceae<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: 'Baskerville Old Face', serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">Part
Used <o:p></o:p></span></span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Baskerville Old Face', serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">Root (rhizome) of ginger is used.In Ayurveda,
distinction is made between fresh ginger root and dried ginger root. It’s said
that they have different action and effect inside the body when consumed. For
example, in conditions like nausea and digestive disorders fresh ginger is
suggested, while dry ginger is suggested
for chronic respiratory illness, neurological cases etc.<b><o:p></o:p></b></span></span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: 'Baskerville Old Face', serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">Ginger
in Ayurveda<o:p></o:p></span></span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Baskerville Old Face', serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">Its name ‘ vishwabheshaj ‘or ‘ vishwaaushadha
‘ in sanskrit explains its usefullness, meaning medicine which is helpful in
almost all diseases. Ginger is mainly used in two forms fresh form and dry
form; the prior is commonly known as Adrak in hindi and the later is called Sounth in hindi and Suntha in marathi. <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Baskerville Old Face', serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">Being hot and pungent in nature, it controls
vitiated Vata and Kapha which are basically cold in nature. When administered
in proper form and dose, it is said to combat<b> </b>excess of Vata in the<b> </b>gastrointestinal
tract and regulate the digestive functions. Due to its action on Kapha and Vata
it is used widely in the Respiratory disorders.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Baskerville Old Face', serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">Ayurvedic practitioners consider ginger to be
a truly a wonder drug, having so many healing properties. It is called the
universal medicine. Taken with rock salt it reduces vayu; with candy sugar it
reduces Pitta; with honey it reduces Kapha. Thus it can be used to influence
all tridoshas.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: 'Baskerville Old Face', serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">Properties
of Dry Ginger:<o:p></o:p></span></span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Baskerville Old Face', serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">Taste :Katu Rasa( Pungent)<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Baskerville Old Face', serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">Nature :Snigdha(Unctous),Laghu (light)<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Baskerville Old Face', serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">Ushna Veerya: Hot in potency<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Baskerville Old Face', serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">Madhura Vipaka: Post metabolic Sweetness<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: 'Baskerville Old Face', serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">Laghupaaka: Light for digestion/Aids proper
digestion<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: 'Baskerville Old Face', serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">Action on Doshas: Kapha-Vata Hara –
Alleviates aggravated Vata and Kapha.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: 'Baskerville Old Face', serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">In Ayurvedic medicine, the ginger is used in
its wet(Ardraka) and dry(Shunti) forms.Either individually or<b> </b>as a component in compound preparations
like decoctions, powders etc.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Baskerville Old Face', serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">In
Ayurveda the pungent and warming properties of ginger have long been
used to enhance the “fire” in the body, which is responsible for proper
digestion, body heat, visual perception, hunger, thirst, the luster of the
skin, the light in the eyes, the clarity in the mind, intelligence,
determination and courage.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: 'Baskerville Old Face', serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">Dry
v/s Wet<o:p></o:p></span></span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Baskerville Old Face', serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">A distinction is made between fresh ginger
root and dried ginger root. It is said that they have different action and
effect inside the body when consumed. For example, in conditions like nausea
and digestive disorders, fresh ginger is suggested.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Baskerville Old Face', serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">It is very effective for nausea and vomiting
in pregnancy. It decrease nausea associated with radiation and chemotherapy
too. On the other hand, dry ginger is suggested for conditions like chronic
respiratory illnesses and neurological disorders<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Baskerville Old Face', serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">Fresh ginger can be substituted for ground
ginger at a ratio of 6 : 1, although the flavors of fresh and dried ginger are
somewhat different. Powdered dry ginger root is typically used as a flavoring
for recipes such as gingerbread, cookies, crackers and cakes.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Baskerville Old Face', serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjL4V6wkbgFDblq6GmQgqamBnGDWhugqDlOn_Xq-oTeKP59drN9PI4pHkqlXyDdn9Q0I8M3aUPRiLi9GtmQ8TgTdEPVfTjOqnPaF8S4kqMTy-Wn7qNmnuRqMa6yITxlGHDiYsbM0YcKctXm/s1600/6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjL4V6wkbgFDblq6GmQgqamBnGDWhugqDlOn_Xq-oTeKP59drN9PI4pHkqlXyDdn9Q0I8M3aUPRiLi9GtmQ8TgTdEPVfTjOqnPaF8S4kqMTy-Wn7qNmnuRqMa6yITxlGHDiYsbM0YcKctXm/s1600/6.jpg" height="320" width="285" /></a></span></div>
<br />
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<b><span style="font-family: 'Baskerville Old Face', serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">Various
forms of use<o:p></o:p></span></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: 'Baskerville Old Face', serif;">Ginger is available in six forms: fresh,
dried, pickled, preserved, crystallized (or candied), and powdered or ground.</span><span style="font-family: 'Baskerville Old Face', serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: 'Baskerville Old Face', serif;">Candied
ginger, or crystallized ginger, is the root cooked in sugar until soft, and is
a type of confectionery.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: 'Baskerville Old Face', serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">Today herbalists use ginger in many forms
including tea, essential oils, compresses, bath products and creams- but there
is still nothing to beat a slice of fresh raw ginger for effectiveness.
Ginger’s pungent taste and fresh smell have also made it one of the most
popular culinary spices all over the world. A dash of ginger truly ‘gingers’ up
an ordinary dish and transforms it into a gourmet delight!<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: 'Baskerville Old Face', serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">Storage<o:p></o:p></span></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: 'Baskerville Old Face', serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">Fresh ginger can be stored in the
refrigerator for up to three weeks if it is left unpeeled. Dried ginger powder
and ginger capsules should be kept in a tightly sealed glass container in a
cool, dark and dry place. <b><o:p></o:p></b></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span style="font-family: 'Baskerville Old Face', serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">Medicinal properties of ginger...<o:p></o:p></span></span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: Baskerville Old Face, serif; font-size: large;">Anti emetic</span><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Baskerville Old Face, serif;">/anti nausea Carminative <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Baskerville Old Face', serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">Expectorant Hypotensive <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Baskerville Old Face', serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">Analgesic
Diaphoretic<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Baskerville Old Face', serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">Antitussive Increases blood flow<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Baskerville Old Face, serif; font-size: large;">Anti clotting</span><span style="font-family: 'Baskerville Old Face', serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"> agent Antispasmodic
<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Baskerville Old Face, serif; font-size: large;">Anti fungal</span><span style="font-family: 'Baskerville Old Face', serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"> Anti inflammatory<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Baskerville Old Face', serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">Antiseptic Antibacterial <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: 'Baskerville Old Face', serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">Antiviral
Sialagogue<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Baskerville Old Face', serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: 'Baskerville Old Face', serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">Medicinal
Benefits:<o:p></o:p></span></span></b></div>
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</div>
<ul style="text-align: left;">
<li><span style="font-family: 'Baskerville Old Face', serif; font-size: large;">It is a wonderful warming aid to digestion,
stimulating appetite and enhancing digestion and absorption of nutrients by
encouraging secretion of digestive enzymes. It moves stagnation of undigested
food and subsequent accumulation of toxins that can have a far reaching effect
on our general state of health, our immunity and vitality.Ginger can be chewed
after meals in conditions like indigestion, gastritis, flatulence,
gastrointestinal infection, and parasites. This protective action of ginger is
attributable to the excessive secretion of saliva.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: 'Baskerville Old Face', serif; font-size: large;">If you feel heavy and bloated after
consumption of non-vegetarian and fried fatty food, you can try this remedy –
take half a teaspoon of fresh ginger juice, one teaspoonful each of lime juice
and fresh mint juice mixed in a teaspoonful of honey.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: 'Baskerville Old Face', serif; font-size: large;">If you have painful periods, take a small
piece of fresh ginger, pound it, and boil in a cup of water for a few minutes,
sweetened with sugar and take this thrice daily.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: 'Baskerville Old Face', serif; font-size: large;">Ginger acts as good medicine for throat
problems. Chewing a piece of fresh ginger along with clove and a crystal of
common salt acts as an excellent remedy for pharyngitis, loss of voice due to
shouting or singing; </span><span style="font-family: 'Baskerville Old Face', serif; font-size: large;"> </span><span style="font-family: 'Baskerville Old Face', serif; font-size: large;">colds, rhinitis,
enlarged uvula, tonsillitis, etc.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: 'Baskerville Old Face', serif; font-size: large;">For those who suffer from dental
sensitiveness or toothache caused by eating sour fruits, ginger gives good
relief. Burn it and mix with common salt. This can be used as toothpowder.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: 'Baskerville Old Face', serif; font-size: large;">If you are suffering from diarrhea and dysentery,
fresh ginger can be taken with buttermilk twice or thrice daily.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: 'Baskerville Old Face', serif; font-size: large;">As an anti-inflammatory treatment in
conditions such as osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. For</span><b style="font-family: 'Baskerville Old Face', serif; font-size: x-large;"> </b><span style="font-family: 'Baskerville Old Face', serif; font-size: large;">Painful joints mix 3 drops essential
oil of ginger root and 1 teaspoon of almond oil. Rub on inflamed or painful
joints and cover with a dry cloth to hold in the heat.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: 'Baskerville Old Face', serif; font-size: large;">To treat migrane headaches, especially in
conjunction with other herbal therapies.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: 'Baskerville Old Face', serif; font-size: large;">Topical application for acute inflammatory
conditions, like a ginger compress for acute mastitis.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: 'Baskerville Old Face', serif; font-size: large;">Pour 1cup freshly boiled water over 1
teaspoon dried or 1 tablespoon fresh chopped ginger root. Cover it for 10 minutes,
then strain. Drink 3 or 4 times a day. Effective for both gastrointestinal and
menstrual cramps.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: 'Baskerville Old Face', serif; font-size: large;">A teaspoon of fresh ginger juice mixed in a
cup of fenugreek tea made with 1 tablespoon of fenugreek seeds and honey to
taste acts as an excellent expectorant in cases of asthma.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: 'Baskerville Old Face', serif; font-size: large;">Take a mixture of half a teaspoon each of
powdered ginger, 2 peppercorns and </span><span style="font-family: 'Baskerville Old Face', serif; font-size: large;"> </span><span style="font-family: 'Baskerville Old Face', serif; font-size: large;">1-2 cloves
three times daily with honey or as an infusion or tea in bronchitis.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: 'Baskerville Old Face', serif; font-size: large;">Half a teaspoon of ginger juice to be taken
with one half boiled egg and honey daily night for a month. Relieves impotence
and premature ejaculation. Found to improve sperm count in many cases. Ayurvedic
texts credit ginger with aphrodisiac properties</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: 'Baskerville Old Face', serif; font-size: large;">Ginger clears the ‘microcirculatory channels’
of the body, including the pesky sinuses that tend to flare up from time to
time.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: 'Baskerville Old Face', serif; font-size: large;">Ginger is truly the best remedy for nausea,
whether caused by travel sickness, pregnancy, anxiety, over eating or a stomach
bug. This fact has long been known by sailors in the East where for centuries
ginger preparations have been taken to keep sea sickness at bay during long
voyages in stormy seas. It has recently been used with great success in
hospitals for post-operative nausea,post-chemotherapy nausea.Ginger is a known
effective remedy for the nausea associated with motion sickness.Chew on ginger,
preferably tossed in a little honey before taking a plane flight can prevent
motion sickness.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: 'Baskerville Old Face', serif; font-size: large;">Ginger improves the absorption and
stimulation of essential nutrients in the body. It does this by stimulating
gastric and pancreatic enzyme secretion.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: 'Baskerville Old Face', serif; font-size: large;">Ginger contains some of the most potent
anti-inflammatory fighting substances known and is a natural powerful
painkiller.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: 'Baskerville Old Face', serif; font-size: large;"> </span><span style="font-family: 'Baskerville Old Face', serif; font-size: large;">If
you’re suffering from common respiratory diseases such as a cough, ginger aids
in expanding your lungs and loosening up phlegm because it is a natural
expectorant that breaks down and removes mucus. That way you can quickly
recover from difficulty in breathing.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: 'Baskerville Old Face', serif; font-size: large;">Consuming a little bit ginger a day can help
foil potential risk of a stroke by inhibiting fatty deposits from the arteries.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: 'Baskerville Old Face', serif; font-size: large;">Chew little pieces of the root, fresh or crystallized,
you will find that ginger settles the stomach, soothes indigestion and calms
wind. Its pain relieving and relaxing effects in the gut relieve colic and
spasm, and help to stop griping caused by diarrhea or dysentery. Ginger also
helps to reduce flatulence!</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: 'Baskerville Old Face', serif; font-size: large;">Ginger thins the blood and inhibits clotting;
it lowers harmful cholesterol levels and reduces blood pressure.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: 'Baskerville Old Face', serif; font-size: large;">Ginger has been recommended to invigorate the
reproductive organs and to remedy infertility and impotence related to
deficiency of vital warmth in the body.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: 'Baskerville Old Face', serif; font-size: large;">Studies show ginger may reduce urine protein
levels, decrease water intake and urine output, and reverse proteinuria, which
is kidney damage caused by too much protein in the urine. Ginger may also
protect nerves in diabetics and lower blood fat levels.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: 'Baskerville Old Face', serif; font-size: large;">By stimulating the circulation, encouraging
perspiration and enabling the digestive tract to eliminate toxins, ginger helps
the body to fight off infection. The volatile oils that lend ginger its
characteristic taste and smell are highly antiseptic, activating immunity and
dispelling a whole variety of bacterial and viral infections.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: 'Baskerville Old Face', serif; font-size: large;">It is a wonderful warming aid to digestion,
stimulating appetite and enhancing digestion and absorption of nutrients by
encouraging secretion of digestive enzymes. It moves stagnation of undigested
food and subsequent accumulation of toxins that can have a far reaching effect
on our general state of health, our immunity and vitality.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: 'Baskerville Old Face', serif; font-size: large;">A teaspoon of fresh ginger juice mixed in a
cup of fenugreek tea made with 1 tablespoon of fenugreek seeds and honey to
taste, acts as an excellent expectorant in cases of asthma.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: 'Baskerville Old Face', serif; font-size: large;">Ginger is also touted as a natural fertility
booster. Ginger is also
thought to invigorate the reproductive organs and possibly assist with
impotency and premature ejaculation. </span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: 'Baskerville Old Face', serif; font-size: large;">It has valuable detoxifying and
anti-inflammatory properties and these combined with its analgesic effects can
be very helpful in the treatment of rheumatism and arthritis.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: 'Baskerville Old Face', serif; font-size: large;">Ginger has also been shown to have
antioxidative properties, inhibiting free radicals in the body and thereby
further aiding immunity, protecting the heart and circulation and promoting
longevity.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: 'Baskerville Old Face', serif; font-size: large;">For migraine, have two tablespoon of dry
ginger powder with warm water before the pain intensifies, and for sinus
congestion take 1 teaspoon fresh ginger juice with 1 teaspoon honey 2-3 times a
day.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: 'Baskerville Old Face', serif; font-size: large;">Ginger thins the blood and inhibits clotting,
lowers harmful cholesterol levels and reduces blood pressure.</span><span style="font-family: 'Baskerville Old Face', serif; font-size: large;"> </span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: 'Baskerville Old Face', serif; font-size: large;">Ginger’s warming and stimulating properties
can work wonders for many common health problems. Ginger stimulates
circulation, and enhances the blood flow throughout the body. It is a wonderful
warming aid to digestion for it sharpens the appetite and enhances the
absorption of nutrients, by encouraging secretion of digestive enzymes. Ginger
also helps to move stagnation of undigested food and subsequent accumulation of
toxins that can have a far reaching effect on our general state of health, our
immunity and vitality. Not only does ginger stoke the digestive fire and whet
the appetite, it improves assimilation and transportation of nutrients to
targeted body tissues.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: 'Baskerville Old Face', serif; font-size: large;">In the study, ginger actually suppressed
cancer cells suggesting that the herb was able to fuel apoptosis or the death
of the cancer cells. Ginger has been shown to work against skin, ovarian, colon
and breast cancer. But it had not been shown to halt the progression of cancer
until now. However, more research is required to confirm this.</span></li>
</ul>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: 'Baskerville Old Face', serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><b>Contraindications</b></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: 'Baskerville Old Face', serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">The few situations in which ginger is contraindicated
are in cases of hyperacidity, during any form of hemorrhage, If you are
pregnant, consult an herbalist or a licensed healthcare professional before
using large amounts of ginger.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: 'Baskerville Old Face', serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span style="font-family: 'Baskerville Old Face', serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">U can
do this surely…<o:p></o:p></span></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: 'Baskerville Old Face', serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">Today however regularly adding ginger to your
cooking or drinking ginger tea may serve just as well and be more suited to our
busy lives.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: 'Baskerville Old Face', serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">The next time you are feeling down in the
dumps, chilly and tired or that a cold is threatening, why not try a steaming
hot cup of ginger tea a few times through the day and feel your mood and energy
revive, and that stuffy feeling begin to clear…a touch of Paradise to refresh
the spirits and make you feel alive.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: 'Baskerville Old Face', serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">If you can eat raw ginger, a good way to take
it is to dip two or three thin slices of ginger in a little salt and limejuice
and have them before a main meal.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: 'Baskerville Old Face', serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">If you find ginger hard to eat raw or by
itself because of its pungent taste, consider adding two or three thin slices
to your vegetables or lentils as they cook. Another way to eat ginger is to
sauté some grated ginger in a tablespoon of ghee and add the mixture to warm
milk (add sweetener if you like) or desserts or other dishes.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: 'Baskerville Old Face', serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">To remove the skin from fresh mature ginger,
peel with a paring knife. The ginger can then be sliced, minced or julienned.
The taste that ginger imparts to a dish depends upon when it is added during
the cooking process. Added at the beginning, it will lend a subtler flavor
while added near the end, it will deliver a more pungent taste.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: 'Baskerville Old Face', serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">Turn up the heat while cooling off by making
ginger lemonade. Simply combine freshly grated ginger, lemon juice, cane juice
or honey and water.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: 'Baskerville Old Face', serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhy0V8AR69grQngKkbsjOlymHoPIdDQ7h9AJBNwYnj0qhkYWQCpq4Woe-EDeIJL9RyAb4ANGokBg0Ls4LsMVGdsp4C-bAHGBY-PXECkIC4s3onnWDXG4xfdl-Da3POYleVgRz9YW21duuuj/s1600/Ginger-Tea-Recipes-for-Weight-Loss.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="font-family: 'Baskerville Old Face', serif; font-size: x-large; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhy0V8AR69grQngKkbsjOlymHoPIdDQ7h9AJBNwYnj0qhkYWQCpq4Woe-EDeIJL9RyAb4ANGokBg0Ls4LsMVGdsp4C-bAHGBY-PXECkIC4s3onnWDXG4xfdl-Da3POYleVgRz9YW21duuuj/s1600/Ginger-Tea-Recipes-for-Weight-Loss.jpg" height="236" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span style="font-family: 'Baskerville Old Face', serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">Ginger
Tea<o:p></o:p></span></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: 'Baskerville Old Face', serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">To make a tea, cut a two-inch cube of rhizome
into slices and simmer them in one cup of water on low heat for 10 minutes.
Cover the pot while cooking to retain as many volatile constituents as
possible. Remove the slices, and sip the remaining liquid before a meal. Eat
the slices after drinking the tea. Drink three cups of tea per day, one before
each meal.The amount of ginger root you use will depend on your taste. I
normally slice a piece that is around the size of my thumb, but in any event
you don’t want your tea to be so pungent that it burns your mouth as you
swallow it, at the same time you don’t want it to be so weak that you do not
benefit from its therapeutic properties.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: 'Baskerville Old Face', serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">With its rather amazing ability to stimulate
the circulation, imbuing you with a warmth that extends from the tips of your
fingers right down to your toes, while at the same time increasing your energy,
lifting the spirits and enhancing your immunity, this is certainly a tea that
reaches parts that other teas can’t. <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: 'Baskerville Old Face', serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span style="font-family: 'Baskerville Old Face', serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">Growing
Ginger at Home<o:p></o:p></span></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: 'Baskerville Old Face', serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">Ginger is very easy to grow and can be grown
indoors or outside in pots filled with potting mix, allow enough room in the
pots, about 10 to 12 inches deep, for the actual ginger roots to form.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: 'Baskerville Old Face', serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">The best time to plant ginger is in the
spring. Simply buy some fresh ginger roots at a local grocery store. Choose a
smooth, shiny looking root that has some buds beginning to form.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: 'Baskerville Old Face', serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">Soak the roots you bought in some water
overnight. The following day plant them in the pot(s) just beneath the soil
level. Water well.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: 'Baskerville Old Face', serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">Once the ginger has started to grow, feed
every two to three weeks with a general pot-plant feed. A mature ginger plant
will grow between two to four feet tall. Stems and leaves may reach up to a
foot long and resemble those of lily.Harvest ginger roots after the rhizome has
grown for around three to four months.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: 'Baskerville Old Face', serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
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Vaishali G Kamathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13368641312089476984noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4746605527351922533.post-8241134566807235502014-03-31T11:55:00.001+05:302014-03-31T14:39:39.056+05:30Harvest the wonders of Neem this Gudi Padwa (New Year)<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; font-size: 16pt;">Gudi Padva (Marathi: </span><span style="font-family: Mangal, serif; font-size: 16pt;">गुढी</span><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; font-size: 16pt;">
</span><span style="font-family: Mangal, serif; font-size: 16pt;">पाडवा</span><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; font-size: 16pt;">
Guḍī Pāḍavā), is the Marathi name for Chaitra Shukla Pratipada.It is
celebrated on the first day of the Chaitra month to mark the beginning of the
New year according to the Hindu
calendar.The word </span><span style="font-family: Mangal, serif; font-size: 16pt;">पाडवा</span><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; font-size: 16pt;">(pāḍavā) or </span><span style="font-family: Mangal, serif; font-size: 16pt;">पाडवो</span><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; font-size: 16pt;">(pāḍavo)
comes from the sanskrit word </span><span style="font-family: Mangal, serif; font-size: 16pt;">पड्ड्वा</span><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; font-size: 16pt;">/</span><span style="font-family: Mangal, serif; font-size: 16pt;">पाड्ड्वो</span><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; font-size: 16pt;">(pāḍḍavā/pāḍḍavo),
which stands for the first day of the bright phase of the moon called </span><span style="font-family: Mangal, serif; font-size: 16pt;">प्रतिपदा</span><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; font-size: 16pt;">
(pratipadā) in Sanskrit.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; font-size: 16pt;">This practice of different
customs and rituals around the world though looks something completely
unrelated but still has a lot of scientific base to it. Let’s look deeply in
some of these traditions to find the real answers.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; font-size: 16pt;"><br /></span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; font-size: 16pt;">Time
for Celebration<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; font-size: 16pt;">The day is celebrated with an
auspicious early morning bath, followed by decorating the doorway with a
‘Mangal Toran’, performing ritualistic worship and hoisting the Gudi the flag
symbolizing victory. Followed by pooja
of god and Panchanga Shravana. Front space of houses is decorated with Rangoli
and everyone wears new clothes and celebrates the festival by wishing each
other with New Year greetings.<b><o:p></o:p></b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; font-size: 16pt;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; font-size: 16pt;">A Guḍi (flag)is also hoisted on
this occasion giving this festival its name. The raising of the Gudi , Hoisted
atop a window well before sunrise, the 'gudi' is much reason to bring family
members together. The occasion also heralds the beginning of spring. A brightly colored silk cloth is first tied to
a wooden pole with a brass or silver goblet or kalash is placed upturned atop
it. Then garlands of sweet sugary battasa, neem leaves and orange -yellow
marigold flowers are tied to the pole. This is called the "Gudi". The
"Gudi" or decorated pole is placed where it can be seen by</span> <span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; font-size: 16pt;">passersby. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; font-size: 16pt;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; font-size: 16pt;">Traditionally, families are
supposed to begin the festivities by eating the bittersweet leaves of the neem
tree. Sometimes, a paste of neem leaves is prepared and mixed with dhane(coriander),
gul/gur(jaggery), and tamarind. All the members of the family consume this
paste, which is believed to purify the blood and strengthen the body’s immune
system against diseases.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; font-size: 16pt;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; font-size: 16pt;">A feast of 'shrikhand' and 'puri'
, pooran –poli mark the gastronomical delights of Gudi Padwa.Konkanis make
Kanangachi Kheer, a variety of Kheer made of sweet potato, coconut milk,
jaggery, rice flour, etc. and Sanna.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; font-size: 16pt;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; font-size: 16pt;">Worship to the "Gudi"
is supposed to drive away evil from the house and are expected to usher in
prosperity and good fortune.Finally, the 'gudi' is taken off before the sunset.</span><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; font-size: 16pt;">This auspicious day also marks
the beginning of the consumption of summer foods like melons, jack-fruit,
mangoes , sprouted gram and more. A variety of sherbets such as Mango Panha(Raw mango drink)</span><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; font-size: 16pt;"> </span><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; font-size: 16pt;">are served.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; font-size: 16pt;"><br /></span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; font-size: 16pt;">Auspicious
day (Muhurt) Padwa<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; font-size: 16pt;">One of the three and a half
auspicious days (Muhurts)<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; font-size: 16pt;">Gudhipadva, Akshay Trutiya and
Dasra (Vijayadashmi) these are the</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; font-size: 16pt;">full day Muhurat and, the first day of the
Hindu lunar month of Kartik (Balipratipada) comprises half of the total three
and a half auspicious Muhuratas.</span><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; font-size: 16pt;">Gudi Padva is considered one of
the auspicious days in the year when people start new ventures. House-warming
poojas are performed and people also may choose to buy gold, silver or property
on this day.</span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; font-size: 16pt;">Legends
behind celebration…<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; font-size: 16pt;">On this day Lord Brahma created
the Universe and the Satyayug(The Age of Truth and Justice) begins,
it marks the commencing of the Hindu New Year. Thus for Hindus, this day
carries special significance.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; font-size: 16pt;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; font-size: 16pt;">Lord Vishnu is also said to have
been incarnated as Matsya. The fish, on this day.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; font-size: 16pt;">There are numerous legends
associates with the flag hosting on this day as defeats of Shakas by Shalivahan
and some people hoist it to commemorate the victory of Shivaji maharaj also.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; font-size: 16pt;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; font-size: 16pt;">Some also believe that Lord
Shriram reached Ayodhya after winning Lanka on this day, his subjects hoisted
flags in every house symbolizing victory and joy. It is believed that this
festival is celebrated to commemorate the coronation of Rama post his return to
Ayodhya after completing 14 years of exile.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; font-size: 16pt;">Importance
of this day <o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<u><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; font-size: 16pt;">Astronomical<o:p></o:p></span></u></div>
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<span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; font-size: 16pt;">This new moon day has special
meaning from Astronomy point of view. The Sun is supposed to be in first point
of Aries, which is first sign of zodiac and is a natural beginning of spring.
It has evolved into of many festivals Holi, Gudi Padwa around this part of year
in India .It is one of the most famous harvesting festival in India.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<u><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; font-size: 16pt;">Chronological<o:p></o:p></span></u></div>
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<span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; font-size: 16pt;">Being the first day of the first
month of a year, Gudi Padwa is the New Year's Day as per Hindu calendar.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<u><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; font-size: 16pt;">Agricultural<o:p></o:p></span></u></div>
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<span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; font-size: 16pt;">India is a predominantly agrarian
society. Thus celebrations and festivals are often linked to the turn of the
season and to<b> </b>the sowing<b> </b>and reaping of crops. This day marks
the end of one agricultural harvest and the beginning of a new one. In this
context, the Gudi Padwa is celebrated at the end of the Rabi season. <u><o:p></o:p></u></span></div>
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<u><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; font-size: 16pt;">Historical<o:p></o:p></span></u></div>
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<span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; font-size: 16pt;">This day also commemorates the
commencement of the Shalivahana calendar after he defeated sakas in battle.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<u><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; font-size: 16pt;">Religious<o:p></o:p></span></u></div>
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<span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; font-size: 16pt;">According to the </span><span style="color: black; font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin; mso-themecolor: text1; text-decoration: none; text-underline: none;">Brahma Purana</span><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; font-size: 16pt;">, this
is the day on which </span><span style="color: black; font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin; mso-themecolor: text1; text-decoration: none; text-underline: none;">Brahma</span><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; font-size: 16pt;"> created the world after the deluge and
time began to tick from this day forth.<u><sup><o:p></o:p></sup></u></span></div>
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<u><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; font-size: 16pt;">Seasonal<o:p></o:p></span></u></div>
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<span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; font-size: 16pt;">On this day, the sun assumes a position above
the point of intersection of the </span><span style="color: black; font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin; mso-themecolor: text1; text-decoration: none; text-underline: none;">equator</span><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; font-size: 16pt;"> and
the </span><span style="color: black; font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin; mso-themecolor: text1; text-decoration: none; text-underline: none;">meridians</span><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; font-size: 16pt;">.
According to the </span><span style="color: black; font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin; mso-themecolor: text1; text-decoration: none; text-underline: none;">Hindu calendar</span><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; font-size: 16pt;">, this
marks the commencement of the <span style="color: black; mso-themecolor: text1; text-decoration: none; text-underline: none;">Vasanta</span> <span style="color: black; mso-themecolor: text1; text-decoration: none; text-underline: none;">ritu</span> or the </span><span style="color: black; font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin; mso-themecolor: text1; text-decoration: none; text-underline: none;">spring</span><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; font-size: 16pt;"> season<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; font-size: 16pt;">Known with different names in various states<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; font-size: 16pt;">Gudi Padwa (in Maharashtra),<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; font-size: 16pt;">Ugadi (in Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh).<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; font-size: 16pt;">Nau Roz (Kashmir),<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; font-size: 16pt;">Baisakhi (Punjab),<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; font-size: 16pt;">Cheti Chand (Sindhi)<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; font-size: 16pt;">Naba Barsha (Bengal)<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; font-size: 16pt;">Goru Bihu (Assam)<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; font-size: 16pt;">Puthandu (Tamil Nadu)<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; font-size: 16pt;">Vishu (Kerala)<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; font-size: 16pt;">Konkani Hindus variously refer to the day as </span><span style="font-family: Mangal, serif; font-size: 21px;">संसार</span><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; font-size: 16pt;"> </span><span style="font-family: Mangal, serif; font-size: 16pt;">पाडवो</span><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; font-size: 16pt;"> or </span><span style="font-family: Mangal, serif; font-size: 16pt;">संसर</span><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; font-size: 16pt;"> </span><span style="font-family: Mangal, serif; font-size: 16pt;">पाड्यॆ</span><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; font-size: 16pt;"> (saṁsāra 'pāḍavo/ saṁsāra pāḍye),</span><span style="font-family: Mangal, serif; font-size: 16pt;">संसार</span><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; font-size: 16pt;"> (saṁsāra) being a corruption of the word </span><span style="font-family: Mangal, serif; font-size: 16pt;">संवत्सर</span><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; font-size: 16pt;"> (saṁvatsara).</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; font-size: 16pt;"><br /></span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; font-size: 16pt;">Change
in climate</span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; font-size: 16pt;">To understand this specific ritual,
we would try to take a small peek at the atmosphere and the seasonal changes
during that time and how would those changes affect us in general. This is the
beginning of the spring.Winter has been a great time with lot of coolness in
the air, suddenly as spring arrives the
atmosphere starts getting warmer slowly
and slowly .</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; font-size: 16pt;">The sun’s rays increase in intensity, going from mellow to hot.
The body up till now was full of energy and with lot of appetite suddenly due
to this change of season we could see the appetite suddenly being reduced. Many
people who have low immunity suffering with cold, cough, fever. People with
history of Asthma would suddenly have bouts of those attacks during this time.
Yes one day was cooler,lot nicer and suddenly it has changed. </span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAQPExU4LfiNp2b8wnHOiLZOuUa_qyXLRE86GfbTtXaSvkA4BTFHczKl4lcZ026zCT7UXhT1coEKxbwrRWedjnmqvA_wmt2_yNIDGmtUicUec46g4wmNe-ata1-t0j4wL5VlmUnDrt7-9S/s1600/TipsNEEM.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="font-family: Cambria, serif; font-size: 16pt; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAQPExU4LfiNp2b8wnHOiLZOuUa_qyXLRE86GfbTtXaSvkA4BTFHczKl4lcZ026zCT7UXhT1coEKxbwrRWedjnmqvA_wmt2_yNIDGmtUicUec46g4wmNe-ata1-t0j4wL5VlmUnDrt7-9S/s1600/TipsNEEM.jpg" height="480" width="640" /></a></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; font-size: 16pt;"><br /></span></b></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; font-size: 16pt;">Ayurvedic
Significance</span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; font-size: 16pt;">According to the ancient system of
medicine Ayurveda this is the time of the year when the Kapha accumulated in
the body starts to get out from the body due to the heat of the sun and starts
to create issues in the body. Remember during those nice winter days we used to
eat a lot, Diwali , Christmas , lot of sweets , fresh fruits what happen to
them . Yes this sweets and lots of nice fruits and the cool season
has made a huge amount of Kapha to be stored in the body Even in an
healthy person you could find some this
changes seen too.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; font-size: 16pt;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; font-size: 16pt;">To fight this changes here comes
the custom of eating this bitter Neem . Gudi Padwa being the first day for the
sun to start heating<b> </b>itself in the<b> </b>earth’s Atmosphere would be the right
time to have this Neem in our body.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; font-size: 16pt;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; font-size: 16pt;">Neem by itself is known all over
the world for its Blood purifying action, immune builder,But do you know this neem to be helpful to even for fighting
this excess Kapha that has been starting to build up in our system .The jaggery
though sweet has its own value for heating our internal system thus helping the
action of this neem to work in removing
the excess Kapha .And yes who does not want an immune builder during such times
when season changes ,were the immunity by itself has been on a low tract.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; font-size: 16pt;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; font-size: 16pt;">This month heralds the onset of
the spring – synonymous with ushering in of new life on earth.Spring is
considered as the first season of the year indicating a new beginning. The
trees shed old leaves paving way for the new one. Durning whole month of
chaitra Ayurveda suggest to drink Neem Juice, obtained from neem leaves.As in
this season Pitta dosha accumulate in body, and if it accumulates in more quantity
it can cause blood/skin and other various diseases.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; font-size: 16pt;"><br /></span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; font-size: 16pt;">Health
benefits of Neem</span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; font-size: 16pt;">In India, the tree is variously known as
"Sacred Tree," "Heal All," "Nature's Drugstore",
"Village Pharmacy" and "Panacea for all diseases." Products
made from neem tree have been used in India for over two millennia for their
medicinal properties.<b><o:p></o:p></b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; font-size: 16pt;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; font-size: 16pt;">Everyone is aware of the immense health
qualities neem has. It is a very famous herb of India and is known all over the
world for its medicinal properties. It has been used in Ayurveda since a long
time and has been mentioned in ancient texts for its exceptional beneficial
nature. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; font-size: 16pt;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; font-size: 16pt;">It is commonly known as Margosa tree in
English, while it’s biological name is Azadirachta indica.In India, this tree
is revered and worshipped and can be found just about anywhere. It is an
evergreen tree, which attains a height of around 40-50 feet. Every part of the
neem tree, which includes bark, leaves, fruit, roots,branches flowers, etc is
beneficial. Check out the health benefits of neem.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<ul style="text-align: left;">
<li><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; font-size: 16pt;">Neem has anti bacterial, anti parasitic, anti
fungal, anti protozoa and anti viral properties, which means it provides
protection from almost all microorganisms.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; font-size: 16pt;">Applying neem in the form of powder or oil on
external cuts or wounds has exceptional results. It fights off all kinds of
germs and enables in the easy recovery of the affected area.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; font-size: 16pt;">It is very common to take bath in water that
has neem leaves added to it. It has medicinal properties and gets rid of all
the germs that may be thriving on our bodies.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; font-size: 16pt;">Neem powder or oil is very effective in
relieving us of skin ailments such as eczema, acne, skin allergy, rashes, itch,
ringworms, etc.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; font-size: 16pt;">Neem water is very effective when used to
treat injuries caused due to burns. It heals up skin fast and prevents the
creation of any kind of an allergy or infection.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; font-size: 16pt;">Neem oil, when used as a substitute for hair
oil, provides amazing results. It prevents hair from graying and also effective
in treating dandruff, lice and hair fall.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; font-size: 16pt;">Neem oil can be used to massage muscle aches
and joints and can be used to relieve pain from conditions like rheumatoid
arthritis, gout, Osteoarthritis, lower back pain, etc.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; font-size: 16pt;">Ingesting neem is beneficial in many ways as
it helps to restore the taste of mouth, cures constipation and relieves of
indigestion. It also eliminated the problem of acidity.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; font-size: 16pt;">Eating neem will help get rid of intestinal
worms, thus performing its role as a de-worming agent and will help restore
healthy functioning of the intestines.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; font-size: 16pt;">Taking neem internally is said to effectively
improve the quality of blood and purifies it. It helps getting rid of toxins
that may be present in the blood and keeps the body disease-free.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; font-size: 16pt;">Neem is said to be a very effective medicine
for people suffering from diabetes and helps to control blood sugar levels to a
great extent.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; font-size: 16pt;">Neem has been found in extensive scientific
research to be a safe and very effective birth control that may be used by
either men or women.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; font-size: 16pt;">Neem has the ability to make the immune
system of a body very strong and get rid of any foreign disease that may weaken
the body.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; font-size: 16pt;">Neem oil is used for preparing cosmetics
(soap,</span><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; font-size: 16pt;"> </span><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; font-size: 16pt;">shampoo, creams etc.), and is
useful for skin care such as acne treatment, and keeping skin elasticity. Neem
oil has been found to be an effective mosquito repellent.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; font-size: 16pt;">Neem twigs (‘datun’) are commonly used for
brushing teeth in the morning in rural India.</span> <span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; font-size: 16pt;">Neem
twigs and leaves have been used for thousands of years by millions of people in
India to brush their teeth and cleanse their gums to promote oral hygiene.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; font-size: 16pt;">Neem leaf paste is applied to the skin to
treat acne, and in a similar vein is used for measles and chicken pox
sufferers.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; font-size: 16pt;">There are numerous diseases in which neem can be used effectively
some of them are as follows Diabetes, Arthritis,</span> <span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; font-size: 16pt;">Rheumatism,
Cancer,Heart Diseases, hemorrhoids,Nervous Disorders, Gonorrhea, Syphilis,
chlamydia, genital herpes, genital/vaginal warts, candidiasis, and urinary
tract infections etc.</span></li>
</ul>
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<b><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; font-size: 16pt;">Note<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; font-size: 16pt;">Neem is believed to cure many more diseases
according to Ayurveda. However one should adopt a word of caution.Do not
consume these if you are pregnant or trying to conceive. It is advisable to
consult an Ayurvedic doctor while taking more concentrated Neem leaves extracts
or Neem oil as medicine.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; font-size: 16pt;"><br /></span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; font-size: 16pt;">Other uses<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; font-size: 16pt;">The oil is also used in making Neem based
soaps, shampoos and toothpaste.</span><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; font-size: 16pt;">Apart from the direct health benefits, Neem
is very special in terms of ecological benefits. It has even been noticed that
mosquitoes exposed</span><b style="font-family: Cambria, serif; font-size: 16pt;"> </b><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; font-size: 16pt;">to the</span><b style="font-family: Cambria, serif; font-size: 16pt;"> </b><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; font-size: 16pt;">volatiles of crushed Neem seeds and
Neem oil, stop laying eggs!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; font-size: 16pt;">Neem seed cake, the left over part of Neem
seed, is used to enrich the soil. In short, Neem is nature’s systemic purifier.
Neem leaves are used as pest control agents in many places, providing a natural
alternative</span><b style="font-family: Cambria, serif; font-size: 16pt;"> </b><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; font-size: 16pt;">to synthetic</span><b style="font-family: Cambria, serif; font-size: 16pt;"> </b><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; font-size: 16pt;">pesticides.</span><b style="font-family: Cambria, serif; font-size: 16pt;"> </b><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; font-size: 16pt;">Neem also has higher capability for CO2 absorption because of its
large leaf area.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; font-size: 16pt;"><br /></span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; font-size: 16pt;">Conclusion<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; font-size: 16pt;">The most interesting part is it’s
very easy to grow a neem tree even in your garden without knowing which type of
soil your garden has, has it been watered or not.Neem requires really less
amount of water for survival.</span><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; font-size: 16pt;">It's often advised to plant a
neem tree in one's garden, as it a very good disinfectant and drives away
pests.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; font-size: 16pt;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; font-size: 16pt;">Neem has a history of continuous,
safe and effective use among the general population of India for over 5000
years. Neem stands true to its Sanskrit name Arishta which means "reliever
of sickness".<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; font-size: 16pt;">I wish all the readers"Happy Gudi Padwa",Please do not forget to eat those nice little bitter
neem leaves.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; font-size: 16pt;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; font-size: 16pt;">Happy New Year!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<br /></div>
</div>
Vaishali G Kamathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13368641312089476984noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4746605527351922533.post-26810136863618528292014-03-25T16:58:00.000+05:302014-03-26T10:13:18.176+05:30Beat the heat using Vetiver....<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"> </span></span><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBGoqw_5HH0HW1VqbUo9YatmSI20Lyvoo5u4I2fSZuit0a413QCxwxKVGi7gDu2zPQg3j4Rk2DPfE4bHTCm6zZSezbbxsNLXygQEbGJrPL8IY7pGOihfzY0TmFt9xTeMsXY18ln5o69xur/s1600/6a00d8341c630a53ef016300787406970d-800wi.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; line-height: 115%; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBGoqw_5HH0HW1VqbUo9YatmSI20Lyvoo5u4I2fSZuit0a413QCxwxKVGi7gDu2zPQg3j4Rk2DPfE4bHTCm6zZSezbbxsNLXygQEbGJrPL8IY7pGOihfzY0TmFt9xTeMsXY18ln5o69xur/s1600/6a00d8341c630a53ef016300787406970d-800wi.jpg" height="400" width="305" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; line-height: 115%;">Plants soften the
heat of summer. They create a more cooling environment as they don’t absorb and
emit heat the way concrete does. And they cool us through our senses. Plants
also mirror to us how much we benefit from the natural world. When it’s hot,
some plants have the capacity to transmute heat and sun into something that
cools and calms.Vetiver is one of these plants.</span></div>
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<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></span></div>
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<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Vetiver is a tall perennial grass that is native to
India. The name translates from Tamil, one of the languages of native people,
to mean “the root that is dug out”. Vetiver thrives in heat. For thousands of
years vetiver has been most used for its calming and cooling attributes by all
social classes of people in India. Naturally grown herbs are assumed to be more
potent and effective than cultivated herbs because habitat plays an important
role.<o:p></o:p></span></span><br />
<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></span></div>
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<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">In the Colonial
era, when the British found the hot summer months hard to bear, khus root fibers
were woven into mats to cover doors and windows and water was sprinkled on them
from outside. This emitted fragrant and kept the rooms cool until the moisture vaporized.
It was a luxury that the British rulers enjoyed in the subcontinent for years.
Not only the British but the well-to-do locals too used khus mats for their
cooling effect.<o:p></o:p></span></span><br />
<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Description</span></b><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Botanical
Name (Latin): Chrysopogon zizanioides/ Vetiveria zizanioides</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Family
: Poaceaea (Graminae)</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Common Name (English): Vetiver,Khus ,khuskhus, Cuscus etc.</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"> </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Sanskrit Name: Ushira ,Reshira, Sugandhimula</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif;">Gujarati name: Valo</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif;">Hindi names: Bala, Balah, Bena,
Ganrar, Khas, Khas Khas, Khus Khus, Onei, Panni</span><br />
<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif;">Marathi name: Vala, Khas
Khas</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Rasa
(Taste): madhura(sweet), tikta(bitter)</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Virya
(Energy): sheeta(cool)</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Vipak
(Post-Digestive Action): katu(pungent)</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Properties
(Guna ) Ruksha(dry), Laghu(light)</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br /></span>
<b><span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Used in following Gana (group of herbs)</span></span></b></div>
</div>
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<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><u>Charaka </u>– Chardi
Nigrahana, Daha Prashamana, Angamardaprashamana, Varnya, Shukrashodana,
Tiktaskandha,vamanopaga,stanyajanana.</span></span></div>
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<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><u>Susrutha –</u> Eladi,
Sarivadi, PittaShamana<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></span></div>
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<b><span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Effect on Doshas: -<o:p></o:p></span></span></b></div>
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<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Pitta Pacifier (due
to Sheeta Virya) and Madhur rasa<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Kapha Pacifier (due
to Tikta rasa, Ruksha and Laghu properties).<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Doshakarma :
Kaphapittashamaka, Daahaprashamana, Deepana, Paachana<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></span></div>
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<b><span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Part Used<o:p></o:p></span></span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="line-height: 115%;">Roots- Roots of
plants aged 1 ½ to 2-years-old are dug up, cleaned, and set to dry in the sun.</span><span style="line-height: 115%;">They can be used internally
in the forms like root (infusion),khus powder, khus syrup.</span><span style="line-height: 115%;">For external use
vetiver essential oil (aromatherapy), vetiver root luffa ( brush) , vetiver
perfume can be used.</span></span></div>
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<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><b><span style="line-height: 115%;">Morphology-</span></b><span style="line-height: 115%;">The vetiver grass has a gregarious habit and grows in bunches. Shoots
growing from the underground crown make the plant frost- and fire-resistant,
and allow it to survive heavy grazing pressure. The leaves can become up to
120–150 cm long and 0.8 cm wide. The panicles are 15–30 centimeters long and
have whorled, 2.5–5.0 centimeters long branches.</span></span></div>
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<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">The plant stems are erect and stiff. They can persist deep water flow.
Under clear water, the plant can survive up to two months.The root system of
vetiver is finely structured and very strong. It can grow 3–4 m deep within the
first year. Vetiver can grow up to 1.5 metres high and form clumps as wide. The
stems are tall and the leaves are long, thin, and rather rigid; the flowers are
brownish-purple<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><b><span style="line-height: 115%;">How do khus get it’s fragnance-</span></b><span style="line-height: 115%;">Khus, is a type of
grass that grows up to six feet high. Like all grass it has fibrous </span><span style="line-height: 115%;"> </span><span style="line-height: 115%;">roots that reach deep into the moist
earth.Khus's mystical fragrance comes from these tiny rootlets which are filled
with the sweet, deep rich fragrant undertones that remind you of precious woods
and the smell of the hot earth after the first shower of rain.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><b><span style="line-height: 115%;">Action and Uses as per
Ayurveda:</span></b><span style="line-height: 115%;"> </span></span></div>
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<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">It is a cooling
herb. Khus is also known to have a very calming effect on the nervous system.
Because of these useful properties it is used in the treatment of insomnia, and
stress relief. It also helps in calming anger.</span></span></div>
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<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">The plant is used as
anthelmintic for children. It is also used for boils, burns, epilepsy, fever,
scorpion sting, snakebite, and sores in the mouth. Root extract is used for
headache and toothache. <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Ushira is diuretic due to
Shita property and it is useful in dysuria. Sherbet of khus is given in summer
to avoid burning micturation and dysuria.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="line-height: 115%;">Ushira is deodorant, hence useful in skin disorders.</span><span style="line-height: 115%;"> It is also used to treat fungal growths on
the skin, such as ringworm.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Ushira is antipyretic;
Tikta rasa is always known to be best antipyretic.Ushira is useful in burning,
thirst and temperature associated with fever.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Cold infusion of vetiver
and coriander is used in vommiting<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Tikta rasa reduces
flabbiness of muscles. It gives strength to body organs. Ushira is an antidote
and also useful in tuberculosis.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Ushira is a blood purifier
because of Tikta rasa. It reduces extra water from blood. It is haemostatic and
cardioprotective. It is useful in epistaxis. It is used internally as well as
externally in diaphoresis.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Ushira is used in cough,
hiccups and bronchial asthma.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Ushira gives strength to
the brain and nerves. It is useful in unconsciousnesss vertigo.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Ushira gives strength to
the stomach. It reduces gastric secretion ad hence is useful in acid-peptic
disease.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Ushira is a carminative,
appetizer, antidipsetic, antiemetic and astringent. It is useful in loss of
appetite, indigestion, anorexia; diarrhea and fever. Fruit of Bilva and usher
are given in amoebic dysentery.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Khus root as
infusion is used in the treatment for the following medical conditions like
fever, inflammation, irritability of stomach, heavy menstrual bleeding,
menopausal syndrome, urinary tract infection.It also helps to promote fertility<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="line-height: 115%;">The decoction of Khus Powder when taken with milk and
sugar at least once a day for about a week gets rid of the unpleasant body odor
caused due to extreme perspiration.</span><span style="line-height: 115%;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></span></div>
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<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">In
case of pain and swelling make paste of Khus Powder and apply over it. It
reduces pain and swelling. It also reduces pain and swelling of wound from
insect bites when applied as a paste.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">When used in baths or in massages, vetiver is
beneficial in the treatment of the symptoms of arthritis, rheumatism and
muscular aches.</span></span></div>
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<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Make
a paste of Khus powder and Sandal Powder and apply over the face. It clears
away the pimples and improves complexion.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">It
has anti-inflammatory and anti-septic effects thus provide relief from
inflammation in circulatory and nervous system.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></span></div>
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<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Vetiver essential
oil is a circulatory and endocrine gland stimulant, while having a calming
effect on the mind. In other words, it stimulates and balances function, while
putting the body to rest.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></span></div>
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<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">For boils caused by summer heat,powder 1 cup of
vetiver roots and 1 cup of Sandalwood(Santalum album)scraps and store in a
bottle.Mix 1 tablespoon of this powder with water and apply on the affected
areas.Allow it to remain for at least 1 hour before washing it away.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></span></div>
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<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Khus is also an important ingredient of some of the
ayurvedic preparations like Ushirasava, Shadangpaniya ,Arvindasava, etc. But
all these medicines should be taken by the prescription of an ayurvedic
physician.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"> </span></span><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUidODyFMJ1mifH3pSt5T70GGlYbL6lpi3tIVQuSrE5fxScF8Td_KWlCvVvM9CQ_SSiTpfhPN-oUnqhce2y_kVX9vFeTVZEufpcuATbHrsUQxdMThePTAUR7LsJKapzBfULPN8fCU01ObX/s1600/images+%252812%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUidODyFMJ1mifH3pSt5T70GGlYbL6lpi3tIVQuSrE5fxScF8Td_KWlCvVvM9CQ_SSiTpfhPN-oUnqhce2y_kVX9vFeTVZEufpcuATbHrsUQxdMThePTAUR7LsJKapzBfULPN8fCU01ObX/s1600/images+%252812%2529.jpg" /></a></div>
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<b><span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Vetiver oil</span></span></b></div>
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<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">The oil is amber
brown and rather thick. Its odor is described as deep, sweet, woody, smoky,
earthy, amber, and balsam. The best quality oil is obtained from 18- to
24-month-old roots. The roots are dug up, cleaned, and then dried. Before the
distillation, the roots are chopped and soaked in water. The distillation
process can take up to 24 hours. After the distillate separates into the
essential oil and hydrosol, the oil is skimmed off and allowed to age for a few
months to allow some undesirable notes forming during the distillation to
dissipate. The odor of vetiver develops and improves with aging. <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<b><span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Health Benefits of Vetiver Essential Oil <o:p></o:p></span></span></b></div>
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<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">It’s essential oil
is also used extensively in the perfume industries, including perfumes for the
body, room fresheners, and coolers, as well as cosmetics, soaps,shampoos, oils
and as a flavoring agent in beverages, sorbets, and food stuffs.<b><o:p></o:p></b></span></span></div>
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<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">The positive effect
vetiver has on the immune system is due in part to its ability to calm and cool
the body. Vetiver is specifically indicated for stress and over extension
emotionally and physically<b>. </b>This
essential oil is very popular in aromatherapy and has many medicinal
properties, which are described in greater detail below.<b><o:p></o:p></b></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><b><span style="line-height: 115%;">Anti-Inflammatory Properties </span></b><span style="line-height: 115%;">It is also found to be an appropriate
treatment for inflammation caused by sun stroke, dehydration and loo, which is
the name given to very hot and dry winds prevalent during summers in the dry
regions of India and neighboring countries. . It is particularly good at
providing relief from inflammation in both the circulatory and nervous system.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><b><span style="line-height: 115%;">Antiseptic Properties:</span></b><span style="line-height: 115%;"> In tropical countries like India and its
neighbors, microbes and bacteria grow very fast due to the favorable hot and humid
climates found in these regions. Then, it becomes obvious that your wounds are
most likely to get sepsis in these places since there are plenty of bacteria
located there. Vetiver oil efficiently stops the growth of Staphylococcus
Aureus, the bacteria responsible for causing sepsis and eliminates them.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><b><span style="line-height: 115%;">Aphrodisiac</span></b><span style="line-height: 115%;">: Mixed in sorbets and beverages as a flavoring agent,
this oil has an aphrodisiac effect. It also enhances the libido and arouses
feelings of sexual desire. Since sex has more to do with the psychology of the
brain than the physiology, a remedy for most sexual disorders like frigidity,
lack of libido, and impotence. <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><b><span style="line-height: 115%;">Cicatrisant Properties</span></b><span style="line-height: 115%;">: Cicatrisant agents are substances that
speed up the eradication or disappearance of scars and other marks from the
skin. It also promotes the growth of new tissues in the affected places which
replace the dead and discolored tissues and helps achieve a uniform look. This
is also useful for post delivery stretch marks for pregnant women, fat cracks,
after spots left by pox, and burns.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><b><span style="line-height: 115%;">Nervine</span></b><span style="line-height: 115%;">: A tonic for the nerves is called a nervine, like the
essential oil of vetiver. It takes care of the nerves and maintains their good
health. It also heals the damage done to the nerves by shock, fear, and stress.Furthermore,
it helps get rid of nervous disorders, afflictions, epileptic and hysteric
attacks, nervous and neurotic disorders such as Parkinson’s Disease, and lack
of control over limbs and spasms.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><b><span style="line-height: 115%;">Sedative:</span></b><span style="line-height: 115%;"> The essential oil of vetiver is a well known sedative.
It sedates nervous irritations, afflictions, convulsions and emotional
outbursts such as anger, anxiety, epileptic and hysteric attacks, restlessness,
and nervousness. It even benefits patients that suffer from insomnia.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><b><span style="line-height: 115%;">Tonic</span></b><span style="line-height: 115%;">: The effect of a tonic on the body is quite similar to that of
overhauling and servicing on vehicles. A tonic tones up every system of the
body, namely the digestive, respiratory, circulatory, excretory, immune,
endocrine, and nervous systems. Therefore, in a nutshell, it keeps the
metabolic system in order, rejuvenates the body, gives strength and boosts
immune function.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><b><span style="line-height: 115%;">Note</span></b><span style="line-height: 115%;">- This essential oil is completely safe, being a non-irritant,
non-sensitizing and non-toxic substance.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<b><span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Vetiver Powder<o:p></o:p></span></span></b></div>
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<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">The roots are washed,
dried first in shade and then in sunlight and finally powdered which can be
preserved and used as and when required. The overall effect of the roots is as
a coolant, hence is widely used to regulate excessive body heat caused due to
‘Pitha Dohsha’, which is characterized by symptoms like burning sensation of
the body, vomiting, excessive heat, thirst and dryness of mouth, parched
throat, weakness etc.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<b><span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Vetiver brush / luffa/ scrubber<o:p></o:p></span></span></b></div>
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<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Use during bath to
exfoliate your skin. It also helps to Balance the activity of the sebaceous oil
glands,<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">It contains
deodorizing properties and helps normalize oily skin.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">It Replenishes
moisture in dry and dehydrated skin. If used regularly during pregnancy, its
oil prevents stretch marks. It helps to Remove the dead skin from our body.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">It can be used in
circular motion with a cleansing gel, soap or on its own,it stimulates blood
flow and provides a relaxing effect. Store your dry Vetiver brush in its
container after use so that it keeps its fragrance for as long as possible.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<b><span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Culinary Uses / Food and Flavorings<o:p></o:p></span></span></b></div>
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<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Khus essence is
also used to make cooling drinks called ‘sherbet’. You can add the khus
concentrate to chilled milk too.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Vetiver (Khus) is
also used as a flavoring agent, usually through khus syrup. Khus syrup is made
by adding khus essence to sugar, water. Khus Essence is dark green thick syrup
made from the roots of khus grass (vetiver grass). The syrup is used to flavor
milkshakes and yogurt drinks like lassi.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<b><span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Environmental significance<o:p></o:p></span></span></b></div>
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<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Khus is a boon for farmers ,several aspects of
vetiver make it an excellent erosion control plant in warmer climates. Unlike
most grasses, it does not form a horizontal mat of roots; rather, the roots
grow almost exclusively downward, 2–4 m, which is deeper than some tree roots. Hence, it is used to create boundaries for
rice paddies.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">While still in the
soil the roots help it by absorbing water but maintaining the moisture levels
in it and by absorbing toxins from chemical pesticides and fertilizers, so
restoring the soil to a more healthy state.<b><o:p></o:p></b></span></span></div>
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<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">The roots bind to
the soil, therefore it cannot dislodge. Vetiver has also been used to stabilize
railway cuttings/embankments in geologically challenging situations in an
attempt to prevent mudslides and rockfalls, <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">The close-growing
culms also help to block the runoff of surface water. It slows water's flow
velocity and thus increases the amount absorbed by the soil (infiltration).
Vetiver mulch increases water infiltration and reduces evaporation, thus
protects soil moisture under hot and dry conditions. Vetiver also shows pest
repellent properties.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<b><span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Other uses<o:p></o:p></span></span></b></div>
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<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">There are several
projects in these areas which were initiated to stop soil erosion and to
protect the land as well as to provide rural people with a livelihood from
making items from the roots and grasses.<b><o:p></o:p></b></span></span></div>
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<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">They make excellent fibre
for making paper and are also used for growing mushrooms and as compost
material.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">People in India and
elsewhere have long used Vetiver roots among their clothes to keep insects
away.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">The leaves of
vetiver are a useful byproduct to feed cattle, goats, sheep and horses. <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">The roots of the
khus plant can also be woven into sleeping mats, sandals, hats, hand fans and
decorative baskets. They can be packed up in sachets to place in cupboards or
when storing linen.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">You can wear a hat
made from khus roots, to keep your head cool. Just moisten it a bit before you
step out into the sun and enjoy its lovely cool effect and perfume.Wear sandals
made from khus roots for the same effect and to keep your feet cool.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></span></div>
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<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">You can visit this
link to see what all things can be made by Vetiver.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="color: black; mso-themecolor: text1;"><a href="http://www.usheeraindustries.com/p/vetiver.html">http://www.usheeraindustries.com/p/vetiver.html</a></span><o:p></o:p></span></span><br />
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<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"> </span></span><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjle5T1GTZ2SndDsgmCcKnwsrh6ipKif6AG1uIrSEBnOWzMOXwzn1nYl46-GGjelW7VZvNMSTXfon6inVnbFAypJYMFHn9BZxmSyyOJSLucvykZaPqobipfDGz2NyQYa392ZlpmYBOzNPZW/s1600/images+%25284%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; line-height: 115%; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjle5T1GTZ2SndDsgmCcKnwsrh6ipKif6AG1uIrSEBnOWzMOXwzn1nYl46-GGjelW7VZvNMSTXfon6inVnbFAypJYMFHn9BZxmSyyOJSLucvykZaPqobipfDGz2NyQYa392ZlpmYBOzNPZW/s1600/images+%25284%2529.jpg" /></a></div>
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<b><span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Anybody can do this to beat the heat...</span></span></b></div>
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<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Ushira is specially
recommended for the Pitta pacification i.e. in conditions of hyper
perspiration, burning or hyperacidity etc. It can be used in all the forms i.e.
powder form, cold infusion and hot infusion for pacifying the Pitta Dosha.<b><o:p></o:p></b></span></span></div>
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<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Summer is almost
here, and the heat is making its presence felt gradually but steadily. In India
the summer months can get extremely hot. Suddenly we start experiencing
electricity or power cuts, called load shedding as the electrical supply
companies cannot handle the extra load of air-conditioners and water coolers
etc. there are many ways to stay cool in the summer, without really needing
electric power. <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Get an earthen pot
called a ‘matka’ and add a bunch of khus roots to it. matkas are used to cool
drinking water in India from olden times. These earthen pots are really cool
they do not need any electricity or other power to start their cooling effect
on water.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">To my taste buds,
matka cooled water tastes a lot better than water that is chilled in the
refrigerator. The bunch of ‘khus’ roots in the pot water adds a lovely flavor to the water.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Mats made by
weaving vetiver roots and binding them with ropes or cords are used in India to
cool rooms in a house during summer. The mats are typically hung in a doorway
and kept moist by spraying with water periodically; they cool the passing air,
as well as emitting a refreshing aroma.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">In the hot summer
months in India, sometimes a muslin sachet of vetiver roots is tossed into the
earthen pot that keeps a household's drinking water cool. Like a bouquet garni,
the bundle lends distinctive flavor and aroma to the water.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">It is also used to
thatch roofs of earthen houses and mattresses. It is also used as curtains on
doors and windows, which, apart from cooling and scenting the rooms, keeps
insects away. That is why its demand rises excessively during the summer,
particularly in hot countries like India and its neighbors.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<b><span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Conclusion</span></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 12.0pt;">
<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Vetiver is the
gifts of mother earth to humankind. Like a mother’s deep embrace of her child,
Vetiver represents the nurturing, regeneration and self-empowerment given
freely to us by our Mother earth. Vetiver is a wise plant that increases our
ability to thrive. Although it is a powerful medicine to the mind and body, it
appeals to our senses to bring compassion and tolerance for others, and for
ourselves.And it also holds and supports the earth to keep it strong, and help
it to better support us.</span></span></div>
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<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">In this hot
summertime, we relish the plants that thrive in the heat. It is just like
nectar in summer season as it alleviates all the health issues related to the
summer season.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></span></div>
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<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Wishing you khus
filled summer !<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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Vaishali G Kamathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13368641312089476984noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4746605527351922533.post-19099869781938157122014-03-03T19:24:00.000+05:302017-11-17T00:51:15.867+05:30Ayurvedic Multipurpose cream- Shatadhauta Ghruta <div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJPtXzn23TVgmpGYo5VYnIDGpck3LoiRcJUWAZsgQMNEXU1vyEEfzHURaVym9dXjoXpaDq3_5D4JPfxpDE74wvHksvjdmH-G26qHTMj2IK7T9kMfS6TPP5_2xxtYpwvbef-7VvmgKVRyFv/s1600/20171116_131529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="570" data-original-width="703" height="518" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJPtXzn23TVgmpGYo5VYnIDGpck3LoiRcJUWAZsgQMNEXU1vyEEfzHURaVym9dXjoXpaDq3_5D4JPfxpDE74wvHksvjdmH-G26qHTMj2IK7T9kMfS6TPP5_2xxtYpwvbef-7VvmgKVRyFv/s640/20171116_131529.jpg" width="640" /></a> </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large; text-align: left;"><b>Shatadhauta Ghrita </b>(100 times washed ghee) is a traditional ayurvedic preparation prepared by washing clarified butter fat (cow ghee)one hundred times with water.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><span style="text-align: left;">This process transforms the ghee into a soft, cooling, nourishing, silky unguent that is used as a traditional moisturizer and anti-wrinkle skin cream. </span><span style="text-align: left;">SDG is a highly concentrated emollient, processed by hand which is excellent for damaged skin as ghee penetrates and nourishes all seven layers of tissue.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">A special but very simple ghee preparation is used in numerous skin conditions like burns, wound scars, skin marks, burning sensation; herpes etc. It produces radiant and glowing skin, especially for people with easily inflamed skin. It can be used as a daily face and body moisturizer or for facial massage. Apply it for the hot issues of skin like sunburn, eczema and rosacea etc.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><b><span style="font-size: large;"> </span><span style="font-size: x-large;">Method of Preparation</span></b></span><br />
<br />
<ul style="text-align: left;">
<li><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">The procedure is very simple.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Take appropriate amount of ghee in a shallow copper vessel.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Add sufficient quantity of water(preferably cool but not ice-cold) to it and perform a Kneading action as if you are cleaning it.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">After sometime (around 5-10 minutes) allow the mixture to settle and then drain off the clear water above.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Then again add fresh water and continue mixing.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Do this procedure for 100 times.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">The efficacy increases with each washing. </span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">After washing it becomes sookshma and penetrates into skin very fast.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">(Preferably copper vessel is used to make this preparation as it’s said to have antimicrobial properties.)</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">To enhance the cooling and astringent action of this ointment herbal churnas of Palash, Vata, Udumber, Ashwatha etc. can be added to it.</span></li>
</ul>
<br />
<b style="font-size: x-large;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"> Changes after washing</span></b><br />
<br />
<ul style="text-align: left;">
<li><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">As the 100 times washing is complete, ghee turns to white color.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">It will be smoother to touch and will have butter like consistency.When you touch it,you can appreciate that it is lot cooler.</span></li>
</ul>
<br />
<b style="font-size: x-large;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"> Storing</span></b><br />
<br />
<ul style="text-align: left;">
<li><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Collect the SDG from copper vessel and transfer it in a clean tight glass bottle and use as per need.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Since this ghee eventually contains some remnant moisture inside,it is not ideal to store it for more than six months.It should be stored in a clean, dry air tight container. Over exposure to air will cause foul smell.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">In warmer weather, refrigerating this cream is advisable.</span></li>
</ul>
<br />
<b style="font-size: x-large;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"> Directions to use</span></b><br />
<br />
<ul style="text-align: left;">
<li><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Rub a small dab of SDG directly on the affected area.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">It should be used for external application only.</span></li>
</ul>
<br />
<b style="font-size: x-large;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"> Therapeutic properties</span></b><br />
<br />
<ul style="text-align: left;">
<li><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">SDG is widely used for external application for Dahashamana(cooling) property especially for burning wounds.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">It is also used as a base part for many creams/ointments.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">It’s excellent for reducing vitiated Vata and Pitta complaints on the skin.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Aids in rebuilding of dermal tissue, supporting healing of skin.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Soothes pain due to skin irritation.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Decreases inflammation.</span></li>
</ul>
<br />
<b style="font-size: x-large;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"> General Uses</span></b><br />
<br />
<ul style="text-align: left;">
<li><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">SDG helps to heal burns; minimizes scarring from new wounds; is extremely cooling for pitta skin irritations, such as psoriasis, rosacea, eczema etc.It has calming effect on reddish or burned skin and other minor skin problems.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">It is an excellent Astringent, Moisturizer, Anti-wrinkle & Cleansing cream. Can be used as a daily moisturizer for the face and whole body.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">SDG is used to relieve burning sensation, to relieve burn wounds, wound scar,herpes wounds, chicken pox scars, etc.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">In Ayurvedic leech therapy, after the treatment, to reduce the burning sensation and to check further bleeding, this ghee is applied on the affected area.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">It can be used to relieve burning sensation after Agnikarma (thermal cauterization) procedure also.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">In pregnant woman,with unexplained bleeding or spotting, traditionally, it is advised to apply this SDG around umbilicus.</span></li>
</ul>
<br />
<b style="font-size: x-large;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"> Point to be noted</span></b><br />
<br />
<ul style="text-align: left;">
<li><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">As it is made of butter it becomes one of the best moisturizers.But if your skin is already acutely oily and your prakriti(constitution) is Kaphaj and your Kapha dosha is vitiated then SDG is not recommended till vitiation becomes normal.</span></li>
</ul>
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><b><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><b><span style="font-size: large;"> Can be also used in following conditions</span></b></span><br />
<div style="text-align: left;">
</div>
<ul style="text-align: left;">
<li><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Cracks on feet</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Cracks and dryness of lips (especially in winter)</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Anal Fissures</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">External Piles</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Nappy rash in newborns and babies</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Chicken pox scars</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Herpes wounds (visarpa in ayurveda)</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Burn wounds</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Dry irritated skin</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Dermatitis</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Boils</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Sunburn</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Burning sensation of feet (Pada daha)</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Mouth ulcer</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Cuts and wounds</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Pimples</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Striae Gravidarum etc.</span></li>
</ul>
<br />
<b style="font-size: x-large;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"> Conclusion</span></b><br />
<br />
<ul style="text-align: left;">
<li><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">It is a common notion that ghee is used only orally.But in ayurveda,SDG is extensively used for skin care externally.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">This traditional ayurvedic skin cream is completely natural and chemical free. It is the most amazing all purpose health and beauty product everybody should have in their first aid kit.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">SDG is useful in minor skin conditions,for severe and chronic conditions consult your nearest ayurvedic physician.</span></li>
</ul>
<span style="font-size: large;"> </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"> Stay Healthy !</span></span><br />
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Vaishali G Kamathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13368641312089476984noreply@blogger.com39tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4746605527351922533.post-24588724857398172542014-02-27T19:35:00.000+05:302014-02-28T01:31:39.900+05:30Bilva - Lord Shiva's Sacred Tree<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYjECIPjUAcAM_rCJQN3zpptvF_bxIm7nBq1WI8jZGV3Baw17JgKOYrq8O-ofRFxUUZQTRv8ujAVeDWd7IjmAvZ0MZ6_MaOyJ5zmsQW1vX69t_oiM_slUTtpnO89D_0rpo9u_X7Nfnfb0h/s1600/images+%25283%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; line-height: 115%; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYjECIPjUAcAM_rCJQN3zpptvF_bxIm7nBq1WI8jZGV3Baw17JgKOYrq8O-ofRFxUUZQTRv8ujAVeDWd7IjmAvZ0MZ6_MaOyJ5zmsQW1vX69t_oiM_slUTtpnO89D_0rpo9u_X7Nfnfb0h/s1600/images+%25283%2529.jpg" height="265" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"> </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; line-height: 115%;">Bilva
is an ancient tree with spiritual and medicinal importance in ayurveda. It is
extensively described in Indian literature, since Vedic period. Its botanical
name is Aegle marmelos and belongs to Rutaceae family.</span></div>
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<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Bilva
is a large tree growing to a maximum height of around 18 meters. Its natural
habitat includes the dry forests in India, Myanmar, Nepal, Sri Lanka, Pakistan,
Bangladesh, Afghanistan, Vietnam, Laos, Cambodia and Thailand. The Bael tree has a gray colored bark with
thorny branches and aromatic leaves. <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">The
tree is regarded as sacred in Hindu mythology. It is said that the tree is dear
to Lord Shiva who sits under the tree to meditate hence it’s called as Sivadruma.
The leaves of this tree are offered to Lord Shiva during religious rituals. The
most important part of his tree is its fruit. It is a small, woody-skinned
structure with a diameter of around 5 to 15 centimeters. . The fruit is green,
when raw, and appears pale brown upon ripening. On opening it, one finds many
seeds embedded in a thick, mucus-like pulp.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; line-height: 115%;">In
the Atharva Veda it is described as being so sacred that its wood may not be burned
for fuel. It is one among Dashamoola herbs (Group of ten roots).</span></div>
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<b><span style="line-height: 18.399999618530273px;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Synonyms</span></span></b></div>
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<span style="line-height: 18.399999618530273px;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Various names used to describe bilva are commonly known as bael, Bengal quince, golden apple, stone apple, wood apple, bili.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="line-height: 18.399999618530273px;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Sanskrit Synonyms: Maaloora, Shandilya, Shailusha, Shriphala, Gandhagarbha, Sadaaphala, Mahakapittha, Kantaki, Granthila.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="line-height: 18.399999618530273px;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Classical categorization:<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="line-height: 18.399999618530273px;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Charaka:<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="line-height: 18.399999618530273px;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Shothahara – Group of herbs with anti inflammatory property<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="line-height: 18.399999618530273px;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Arshoghna – Group of herbs useful in haemorrhoids<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="line-height: 18.399999618530273px;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Asthapanopaga – Group of herbs useful in Basti treatment.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="line-height: 18.399999618530273px;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Sushruta included bael in </span></span><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; line-height: 18.399999618530273px;">Varunadi gana, Ambashtadi gana, Brihat panchamoola, Dashamoola.</span></div>
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<b><span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Availability
of Bilva in India<o:p></o:p></span></span></b></div>
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<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Bael
grows in the subtropical hills and plains of India. It thrives in dry forests
and has a reputation for surviving in conditions unsuitable for other fruits.
Given its ancient history and evolution, it is no doubt craftier and more
adaptable than modern strains and hybrids of various new crops.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><b><span style="line-height: 115%;">Season of
Bilva</span></b></span></div>
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<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Bael
season is February through May. It’s difficult to find fresh bael outside of
these months, though some suppliers store unripe fruits and gas them into
ripeness at several points in the year for a higher price.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<b><span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Checking for
Ripeness in Bilva fruit<o:p></o:p></span></span></b></div>
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<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Unripe
bael skin is grayish green until it changes to a yellowish tinge as it ripens.
Distributors pick the fruit while it’s still greenish yellow with the
expectation that in 8 to 10 days, bael will ripen. Another indicator of
ripeness is when the stem falls off readily from the fruit.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<b><span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Storing Bilva<o:p></o:p></span></span></b></div>
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<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Bael
does not have to be refrigerated and can be kept on the kitchen counter at
temperatures up to appx 85 degrees Fahrenheit. Bael also keeps for quite a long
time, with the range of acceptability lasting from 2 weeks to 4 months if kept
in cool storage. However, keep an eye on bael, as it may become overripe. This
is indicated by cracks and mold at the stem end.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<b><span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Taste of Bilva<o:p></o:p></span></span></b></div>
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<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Bael’s
orangey flesh tastes like a combination of sweet and sour, with the ratio
varying on the ripeness and particular cultivar. Bael may irritate the throat
of some who try its resinous, pasty orange flesh. The texture of a ripe bael
fruit ranges from sticky, slimy and creamy.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<b><span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Bilva Phala</span></span></b></div>
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<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Unripe
bael fruit<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Kapha
anila hara – balances Vata and kapha.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Teekshna
(piercing)<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Snigdha
(unctuous, oilyness)<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Sangrahi
– Absorbant<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Deepana
– improves digestion<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Katu,
Tikta, Kashaya – has pungent, bitter and astringent taste<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Ushna
– hot<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">It is
quite similar to unripe fruit in qualities but<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Madhura
anurasa – It has sweet after taste<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Guru
(heavy to digest)<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Vidahi
– causes slight burning sensation<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Vishtambhakara
– causes constipation. Useful in diarrhoea and dysentery<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Doshakrut
– may cause imbalance of Tridosha, especially Vata.(Ripe Bael fruit)<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Unique
to other fruits, Bael Fruit takes nearly 11 months to ripen and is about the
size of a grapefruit. Cracking the shell
is not an easy task – and many doing the harvesting use a machete to complete
this effort. The fruit is described as
having a taste similar to marmalade and a scent similar to roses. Oil derived
from bael fruit pulp is hot in nature, and relieves Vata<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span style="line-height: 18.399999618530273px;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Bilva fruit Appearance<o:p></o:p></span></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="line-height: 18.399999618530273px;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Dimension of Fruit: shape: round or oval; diameter: 5 – 12.5 cm; weight 1-2.5 kg.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="line-height: 18.399999618530273px;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Rind/Pulp: thin, hard, woody rind. When unripe the rind color is grayish green and yellow when ripe.</span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Bilva root</span></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Tridoshaghna
– balances Tridosha<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Chardighna
– relieves vomiting<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Shulaghna
– relieves abdominal colic pain<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Madhura
– sweet<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Laghu
– light to digest<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">The
unripe fruit of Bael is<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Tuvara
– Astringent<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Grahi
– absorbant<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Ruksha
– Dry<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Agni
Pittakrut – improves digestion and Pitta.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Vatashleshmahara
– balances Vata and Kapha<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Bilva leaf <o:p></o:p></span></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Sangrahi
– Absorbant<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Vatajit
– Balances Vata<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Bilva Pith <o:p></o:p></span></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Kaphavataghna
– balances Kapha and Vata<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Amaghna
– relieves state of indigestion at the level of digestive tract and tissues<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Shulaghna
– relieves abdominal colic pain<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Grahini
– Absorbant<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Bilva Stem <o:p></o:p></span></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Kasaghna
– relieves cough, cold<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Amavataghna
– useful in rheumatoid arthritis<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Hrudya
– good for heart<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Agnivardhana
– improves digestion power – Carminative<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Katu
– pungent<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Kashaya
– astringent<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Ushna
– hot<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Tikta
– Bitter<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Deepana,
Pachana - Digestive, improves digestive enzymes<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Snigdha
(unctuous, oilyness)<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Teekshna
(piercing)<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><b><span style="line-height: 115%;">Bilva leaves</span></b><span style="line-height: 115%;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Bael
leaves are used in dyspepsia, gastritis indigestion, cold and sinusitis.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Bilva Flower<o:p></o:p></span></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Atisarahara
– Relieves dysentery and diarrhoea<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Trushahara
– relieves thirst<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Vamihara
– anti emetic – relieves vomiting.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Medicinal
uses<o:p></o:p></span></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Digestive</span></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">As
the bael fruit bears strong digestive properties, its regular use gives relief
from any kind of digestive discomfort. In case of disease like diarrhea and
dysenteries it is found very useful as it cleans up and promotes normal
intestinal functioning. It tones up the digestive track and alimentary canal to
allow proper bowel movements. Reap bael fruit is natural laxative and removes
constipation complaints.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">This
fruit consists of carbohydrates, fats, proteins, Vitamin C and minerals like
Iron, Phosphorus, Carotene and thiamin. The presence of such nutrients
including fibers makes it useful in the treatment of digestive and
gastrointestinal disorders.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">The
fruit is excellent in treating various digestion problems. The fruit is also
rich in Vitamin C. Half ripe fruits are taken; the pulp is removed, dried and
powdered. It is better to consume 3 to 10 grams 2 to three times per day. The
fruit is very effective in curing diseases like constipation, dysentery,
diarrhea, worms, peptic ulcer, etc. Bilva root bark, unripe fruit are useful in
loss of appetite, diarrhea, dysentery, sprue, pain in abdomen.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; vertical-align: baseline;">
<b><span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Laxative<o:p></o:p></span></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; vertical-align: baseline;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="line-height: 115%;">Ripe bael fruit is one of the best known
natural laxatives. </span><span style="line-height: 115%;">It's excellent for cleansing and toning the intestines
and helps in evacuating old collected fecal contents from the bowels.</span><span style="line-height: 115%;"> Taking
ripe fruit everyday for about 2-3 months can eliminate acute and sub-chronic
constipation.</span><span style="line-height: 115%;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; vertical-align: baseline;">
<b><span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Eye
and ear disorders</span></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; vertical-align: baseline;">
<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Fresh juice of leaves is used to treat eye
infections. Roots of the young tree are used to treat ear infections. A small,
stiff piece of root is dipped in neem oil and lighted. The oil that drips from
the burning end is collected. This is an excellent medicine for treating ear
infections.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; vertical-align: baseline;">
<b><span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Haemorrhoids</span></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">A
mixture of the unripe fruit along with some ginger and fennel is a supposed
cure for haemorrhoids.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Diarrhoea and
Dysentery<o:p></o:p></span></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="line-height: 115%;">The
specialty of bilva is such that it can be used to cure both constipation and
loose motion. Bilva unripe fruits work as appetizer, digestive and astringent
opposite to this ripened fruits are sweet and mild laxative.</span><span style="line-height: 115%;"> According
to Ayurveda, diarrhea and dysentery without fever can be treated with bael
fruit. The fruit can be dried and mixed with jaggery or brown sugar.<b><o:p></o:p></b></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; line-height: 18.399999618530273px;">The pulp of raw fruits is effective in treating bleeding piles and bacillary dysentery.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Liver
Protective<o:p></o:p></span></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Bilva
leaves powder is liver stimulant so perfects the normal functions of the liver.
Bilva leaf powder mixed with black pepper is used in jaundice<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Haemostatic<o:p></o:p></span></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Bilva
is haemostatic it is also used in hemorrhoids and in other diseases with
tendency of bleeding. Bilva unripe fruit ground to paste and cooked with sugar
known as Bilvavleha is very beneficial
in bleeding piles.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Peptic Ulcer<o:p></o:p></span></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Those
having peptic ulcer can extract the juice from the leaves of this tree and
consume it. It is better to consume it in the morning. When taken regularly for
a few weeks, the ulcers get cured. Soaking bael leaves overnight and drinking
the strained water supposedly helps peptic ulcers. Bael leaves are rich in tannins
which reduce inflammation and help healing of ulcers. The bael fruit taken in
the form of beverage has also great viscous content. This substance forms a
coating on the stomach mucosa and thus helps in the healing of ulcer.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Gastroprotection
properties<o:p></o:p></span></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Gastroduodenal
ulcers are the most common form of gastric ulcers. Such ulcers develop when
there is an imbalance in the acid mucosa levels, or due to oxidative stress
along the gastric tract. Experiments gave positive results in gastric ulcer
inhibition. The phenolic compounds found in bael extracts possessed potent
antioxidants which helped in reducing gastric ulcers.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; vertical-align: baseline;">
<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">The leaves contain large amounts of aromatic
oils and infusion of leaves is considered a potent medicine for peptic ulcers.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; vertical-align: baseline;">
<b><span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Cholesterol
control</span></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Bael
leaf extracts were studied for their cholesterol control. They were effective
in decreasing blood cholesterol levels comparable to modern drugs. Bael leaf
extracts controlled not just blood cholesterol levels but also triglycerides
and serum and tissue lipid profiles.<b><o:p></o:p></b></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Antimicrobial
properties<o:p></o:p></span></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"> Bael leaves, roots and fruit extracts have
been studied for their antimicrobial properties. The extracts showed inhibition
of many bacterial strains. Apart from bacteria, bael extracts were also
effective in controlling fungal and viral infections. The antimicrobial
properties are due to the presence of biochemicals such as cuminaldehyde and
eugenol.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Anti-Inflammatory
<o:p></o:p></span></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Bael
extracts possess anti-inflammatory properties which help in reducing histamine
induced contractions and induce positive relaxant effect in the inflamed regions
or organs. The leaves are used as a hot poultice to soothe inflammations. Bilva leaves powder is used for fomentation in disease condition like
swelling pain in ribs.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">The
anti-inflammatory property of bael fruit is due to the element naming tannins
which heals the chronic inflammation. It is also works well in case of
gynecological problems and gives relief from related pain.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Respiratory
Infections</span></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Medicated
oil made up of bael leaf cures cold and respiratory disorders due to certain
infections. The equal mixture of juice of bael leaf and sesame oil is the best
remedy to get rid of cold, cough and asthma.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">The
leaf juice, mixed in warm water with a little pepper, is give as a drink to
bring relief from wheezing and respiratory spasm</span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><b>Anti-Pyretic</b></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">They
are diaphoretic (producing more perspiration), thus reducing temperature and
lowering fevers, and an aphrodisiac. A decoction of leaves is a favorite remedy
for ailments that often occur during seasonal changes, such as fever, flu and
fatigue. The bael fruit also bears anti-fungal and anti–malarial properties,
good to use in the treatment of malaria. The seed oil is a purgative, and the
leaf juice mixed with honey is a folk remedy for fever. The tannin-rich and
alkaloid-rich bark decoction is a folk cure for malaria.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><b><span style="line-height: 115%;">Controls</span></b><span style="line-height: 115%;"> <b>Emesis</b><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">The
root is the most important part of the tree medicinally, after removing the
outer skin. A preparation made from the root with ginger and toasted rice cures
vomiting.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Aphrodisiac<o:p></o:p></span></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">The gum of the inside pulp of the fruit is an
aphrodisiac (kama-vardhani).<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Scurvy <o:p></o:p></span></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">We
know that Scurvy is caused due to the deficiency of vitamin C. As bael fruits
are rich source of the same vitamin so it helps to recover from the deficiency
and cures scurvy.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Snake Bites <o:p></o:p></span></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">The
root and leaves of bael are used in the treatment of snake bites from ancient
times and found very effective.The pulp is poulticed onto bites and stings of
venomous insects, as is the powdered rind.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">It
has the ability to heal small ulcers inside the bowel which are produced by
infection or inflammation. <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Heart
diseases<o:p></o:p></span></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Bilva
fruit powder works as a cardiac tonic, haemostaic and alleviates swelling,
hence is root used in cardiac dedillity and palpitation.Mix the juice of ripe
bael fruit with some ghee. Include this mixture in your daily diet to prevent
heart related diseases like heart strokes and attacks.<b><o:p></o:p></b></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Cooler<o:p></o:p></span></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Drink
bael fruit juice with honey to cure acidity. You can also apply this on your
tongue to cure mouth ulcers. Drink bael juice before lunch or dinner to reduce
heat and thirst from body. This can be the best drink during the scorching
summers!<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><b>Skin
rash<o:p></o:p></b></span></span></div>
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<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Mix
30ml of bay leaf juice, cumin with bael juice and drink it twice a day to cure
urticaria. This can also be beneficial for skin rash and its symptoms like pale
red, raised, itchy bumps.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<b><span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Anti-Cancer</span></span></b></div>
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<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Consume
this juice regularly to prevent or cure cancer.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<b><span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Control
diabetes<o:p></o:p></span></span></b></div>
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<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Bael
juice contains laxatives that are helpful to control the blood sugar levels. It
stimulates the pancreas and helps them in enough production of insulin that
controls sugar level in the blood.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></span></div>
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<b><span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Culinary Uses<o:p></o:p></span></span></b></div>
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<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Dried fruit products are achieved by slicing
and sun drying the slivers of fruit.
Later, they may<b> </b>be simmered
in water. Leaves from the tree are
sometimes eaten as part of a salad<b>.</b>The
pulp of ripe fruits is also used to make candies, toffees, squash and nectar.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">It
can be eaten fresh; also prepared as sun-dried slices, pickled, sherbet,
marmalade and syrup. The young leaves and shoots are eaten as a vegetable in
Thailand and used to season food in Indonesia.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Bael
fruits may be cut in half, or the soft type’s broken open, and the pulp,
dressed with palm sugar, eaten for breakfast, as is a common practice in
Indonesia. The pulp is often processed as nectar or "squash" (diluted
nectar). A popular drink (called "sherbet" in India) is made by beating
the seeded pulp together with milk and sugar. A beverage is also made by
combining bael fruit pulp with that of tamarind. These drinks are consumed
perhaps less as food or refreshment than for their medicinal effects.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Mature
but still unripe fruits are made into jam, with the addition of citric acid.
The pulp is also converted into marmalade or syrup, likewise for both food and
therapeutic use, the marmalade being eaten at breakfast by those convalescing
from diarrhea and dysentery. A firm jelly is made from the pulp alone, or,
better still, combined with guava to modify the astringent flavor. The pulp is
also pickled.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">A
confection, bael fruit toffee, is prepared by combining the pulp with sugar,
glucose, skim milk powder and hydrogenated fat. Indian food technologists view
the prospects for expanded bael fruit processing as highly promising. An infusion
of the flowers is a cooling drink.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div style="line-height: 115%;">
<b><span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Other Uses<o:p></o:p></span></span></b></div>
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<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">The
fruit pulp has detergent action and has been used for washing clothes.
Quisumbing says that bael fruit is
employed to eliminate scum in vinegar-making. <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">The
gum enveloping the seeds is most abundant in wild fruits and especially when
they are unripe. It is commonly used as household glue and is employed as an
adhesive by jewelers. Sometimes it is resorted to as a soap-substitute. <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">The
limonene-rich oil has been distilled from the rind for scenting hair oil. The
shell of hard fruits has been fashioned into pill- and snuff boxes, sometimes
decorated with gold and silver. The rind of the unripe fruit is employed in
tanning and also yields a yellow dye for calico and silk fabrics<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div style="line-height: 115%;">
<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"> In the Hindu culture, the bael leaves are indispensable offerings to the
'Lord Shiva'. The leaves and twigs are lopped for fodder.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div style="line-height: 115%;">
<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">From
the bael flowers, cologne is obtained by distillation.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div style="line-height: 115%;">
<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Artists
add fruit pulp to their water color, and it may be applied as a protective
coating on paintings.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div style="line-height: 115%;">
<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">In
rural areas, the fruit, which has binding qualities, is mixed with lime plaster
for water proofing wells and is added to cement for building walls in villages.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></span></div>
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<b><span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Precautions<o:p></o:p></span></span></b></div>
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<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Bael
leaves are said to cause abortion and sterility in women<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Large
quantities may result in digestive disorders and constipation.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Always
keep in mind though you want to enjoy bael health benefits, that ripe bael
should not be taken at a stretch. Give a short break and then start taking it
to get the more efficiency.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Again
excessive quantity of bael pulp is hard to digest. As a result you can feel the
problem of constant fullness of stomach. <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">There
goes a proverb too regarding the intake of bael leaves that they should not be
taken by the young males and females, for the leaves have the power to curb the
urge of sex<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"> </span></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj21O79zSjGy2v7RVKZYwQCM0e8HqsUZD5GqcG1gZtSNai_U7dV5AhmkaA-6GW5anGmkKKjnK-gDEfr2FA_vOfBH6yporxSKagaH4GOUcxxiSpxCfTzUtac1yKJuaPwfjCuXoWk_z5q-Ccp/s1600/bilva-shiva_thumb.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj21O79zSjGy2v7RVKZYwQCM0e8HqsUZD5GqcG1gZtSNai_U7dV5AhmkaA-6GW5anGmkKKjnK-gDEfr2FA_vOfBH6yporxSKagaH4GOUcxxiSpxCfTzUtac1yKJuaPwfjCuXoWk_z5q-Ccp/s1600/bilva-shiva_thumb.png" height="361" width="640" /></a></span></div>
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<b><span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Mythological importance</span></span></b></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Bilva
or Aegle Marmelos is the embodiment of Lord Shiva himself and is one of the
sacred tree symbols of Hinduism.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Maha
Shivaratri is considered the most auspicious time to please Lord Shiva to gain
his blessings. What is the simplest way of appeasing Lord Shiva? Offer him
Bilva leaves.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">The
most terrible karma is destroyed when a Bilva leaf is offered to Lord Shiva.
The unbelievable merits one receives on offering a single Bilva leaf to Lord
Shiva are described in the 9 verses of the sacred hymn known as Bilvashtakam.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Just
like Tulsi plant is sacred to Lord Krishna and Durva grass is sacred to Lord
Ganesha, Bilva tree is sacred to Lord Shiva. Since the Bilva leaf has such
significance in the worship of Lord Shiva, it is common to find Bilva trees
cultivated in the vicinity of Shiva temples. The fruits were used in place of
coconuts before large-scale rail transportation became available.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><u>The
Bilva tree in the Shiva Purana</u><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">According
to the Shiva Purana (7 AD) the Bilva tree is the manifest form of Lord Shiva
himself, while all the great tirthas (pilgrimage places) are said to reside at
its base. One who worships the shivalingam while sitting under the Bilva,
claims this great epic, and attains the state of Shiva. Washing the head by
this tree is said to be the equivalent of bathing in all the sacred rivers. One
who performs Bilva pooja with flowers and incense achieves Shiva loka, the
abode of pure consciousness, and has happiness and prosperity bestowed upon
them. The lighting of the deepak (lamp) before this tree bestows knowledge and
enables the devotee to merge in Lord Shiva. The Shiva Purana also claims that
if the devotee removes the new leaves from one of the branches of that tree and
worships the tree with them, they will be freed from vice, while one who feeds
a devotee under the Bilva will grow in virtue.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">From
the Hindu pantheism point of view this tree is the symbolic representation of
Shiva, Parvati, Surya and Lakshmi- the Goddess of Wealth. It is said that no
worship of Shiva is complete without offering Bel patra or Bilva leaf. These
leaves on the lingam cool and refresh the heated deity. Its trifoliate leaf or
tripatra symbolises the three functions-creation, preservation and destruction(Brahma,Vishnu
and Mahesh )of the Lord as well as His three eyes.” The tri-foliate form of
leaves symbolize the trident that Shiva holds in his right hand.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></span></div>
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<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Quoting
the Skanda Purana and explained the origin of Bilva tree, “One day while
Parvati was resting some drops of sweat fell from her forehead on the mountain
Mandara, from which grew the bel tree, Girija lives on the root of the tree,
Maheswari on its shoulder, Dukshayani on its branches, Parvati among its leaves,
Katyayani in its fruit, Gauri in its flowers while in thorns the numerous Saktis
find a home. It is also believed that Lakshmi, the Goddess of Wealth, also
lives in the bel tree.” Those who perform the puja of Shiva and Parvati
devoutly, using the leaves, will be endowed with spiritual powers. The bilva
leaves are-symbols of three Gunasaar –Sattva, Raja and Tama.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></span></div>
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<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Really
speaking Bilva is medicinally and religiously very powerful. On the one hand it
acts as a boost to health and cure for many ailments; on the other hand it has
great spiritual significance which permeates the Hindu way of life.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">May
the next tree you plant be a Bilva Tree! It will not only show your commitment
towards greening the environment, but also display your concern for humanity,
given such divine merits and medicinal value of the Bilva Tree.</span></span><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; line-height: 115%;">A
bilva sapling must be tenderly nurtured and protected until it has reached a
certain height right for transplanting. Quite like a fragile baby bird that
must be carefully tended until such time it leaves the nest to flourish
independently.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">May
the almighty Lord Shiva bless you all with perfect health.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
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<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Happy
Mahashivratri!</span><span style="font-size: 16pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
</div>
Vaishali G Kamathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13368641312089476984noreply@blogger.com17tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4746605527351922533.post-56476926336381933052014-02-18T19:47:00.001+05:302014-02-28T01:47:17.553+05:30Healthy Panch Phoron ( 5 Spice Mix) <div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"> </span><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzkjRyuEOWqqACOIw-3TPmBgTLdKj9h-lyfgJtmvvLEtV1PrxA26VAkKAktP4mPt8rrXN_iha56s1c71RVBH6fqjFdZ04EQ6maiwTMwodKllO2fq8y1XnrvxGAubP3sAGRXLl0owUFXJBw/s1600/images+%25283%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; line-height: 18.85pt; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzkjRyuEOWqqACOIw-3TPmBgTLdKj9h-lyfgJtmvvLEtV1PrxA26VAkKAktP4mPt8rrXN_iha56s1c71RVBH6fqjFdZ04EQ6maiwTMwodKllO2fq8y1XnrvxGAubP3sAGRXLl0owUFXJBw/s1600/images+%25283%2529.jpg" height="400" width="305" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Panch
phoron (five-spice mix) is a spice blend used in Bangladesh and Eastern India,
especially in Bengali, Assamese, and Oriya cuisine.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Panch
phoron literally means five spices. Panch means "five" and
phoron is "flavour" or "spice", hence the common
translation Five-Spice". It’s a blend of Cumin seeds, Fennel
seeds, Mustard seeds, Nigella seeds and Fenugreek seeds.Unlike most spice
mixes, paanch phoron is always used whole and never ground.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">All
of the spices in paanch phoron are seeds.These five little seeds combined
together can change the flavor of a humble dish. They are known as paanch
phoron in Bengali kitchens and paanch phutana in Odiya households. Kitchens in
Eastern India are incomplete without this aromatic spice mix.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><b>Variations</b><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Some
prefer to use a smaller proportion of fenugreek seeds, which have a mildly
bitter taste.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Some
variations may substitute aniseed for the fennel seeds or wild mustard for
cumin, radhuni seed for mustard, and possibly black cumin for nigella.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Generally
the ingredients are added in equal proportions, though this can vary according
to taste.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">How
to use</b></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Panch
phoron is usually fried in oil or ghee before adding anything else to the pot,
flavouring the oil and releasing the aroma of the seeds and causing them
to pop in the pan.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">This
technique is called "baghaar" (literally "tempering") in
Oriya, "phoron" in Bengali, and "chaunk" in Hindi. At this
point, one adds the other ingredients to coat with the spice mixture.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Panch
phoron is usually added in vegetable stir-fry’s, lentils,fish recipes and
pickles etc.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Finely
crushed panch phoran can be prepared by roasting the whole spices and then
crushing them into fine powder. A blender may be used for this purpose. The
finely crushed panch phoran are used for marinades or stews or soups.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><b>Ingredients:</b><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">1
part nigella (Kalonji ) seeds<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">1
part black mustard seeds<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">1
part fenugreek seeds<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">1
part fennel seeds<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">1
part cumin seeds<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><b>Flavours</b><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Each
spice brings out a distinctive flavor.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Cumin
has a unique flavor and adds an earthy, strong and warm flavor.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Fennel
is highly aromatic and slightly sweet.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Mustard
has a sharp, hot and pungent flavor.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Nigella
seeds have a peppery and smoky flavor.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Fenugreek
is very aromatic and has a slightly bitter taste.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><b>Colors</b><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Panch
phoron is a colorful blend of flavorful seeds<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">The
green of fennel seed<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Black
mustard and nigella seeds,<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Golden
fenugreek and buff-colored cumin seeds.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">
<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><b>Synonyms</b><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Panch
phora, panch puran, panchpuran, punch poran, punch puram, punchpuram, panch
phutana etc. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><b>How
to select</b><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Avoid
purchasing pre ground or crushed panch phoran, because its volatile aromatic
notes quickly dissipate and what's left is single-dimensional hotness. Whole
panch phoran should be heavy, compact and free of any blemishes. Just like with
other dried spices, when purchasing panch phoran, try to select that which is
organically grown since this will give you more assurance that it has not been irradiated.
While buying packaged panch phoran, check the expiry date and feel for
lumpiness (sign of moisture inside the packet.)<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><b>Storage</b><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">The
panch phoran should be kept in a tightly sealed glass container in a cool, dark
and dry place.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"> </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><b>Health
Benefits</b><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Spices
are the natural way of caring for yourself. In fact, special preparations of
spices are an integral part of Indian culture and society and help the doctor
away. Spices can’t only improve the taste of your food, but can also improve
the state of your health. Spice provides a wealth of flavors to a range of
colourful, aromatic, multi – textured cuisines across the country.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Apart
from imparting a unique flavour and taste, the five types of spices used in
panch phoran have significant health benefits too..<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><b>Ayurvedic
point of view..</b><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">According
to Ayurveda, including all the six tastes sweet, sour, salty, bitter, pungent
and astringent in each main meal contributes to mind and body balance.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Aroma
of the spices as they pop and splutter in hot oil has such an amazing effect on
the olfactory system, that craving for more is not an option, but a must!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">This
famous combination of panch phoron is the mild spices used to support
digestion. They have vata and kapha pacifying properties without increasing
pitta.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Now we
will look into General and Ayurvedic properties of each spice. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"> </span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-yjhq_TdRYT-YMiEIxcJSaQKpsyxiB9Tfa1iO5qBujd76VYro0aJH5BonKduqYyo6VgLhkIbWqFV4tb5NzCySOG07YQOY-9FS-vY9Ajea8lGQ4XBO63Wtc0VfO66Oucg9WueVSIF_2LQy/s1600/images+%25282%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-yjhq_TdRYT-YMiEIxcJSaQKpsyxiB9Tfa1iO5qBujd76VYro0aJH5BonKduqYyo6VgLhkIbWqFV4tb5NzCySOG07YQOY-9FS-vY9Ajea8lGQ4XBO63Wtc0VfO66Oucg9WueVSIF_2LQy/s1600/images+%25282%2529.jpg" height="400" width="265" /></a></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><b> <u> Cumin
seeds</u></b><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"></span><br />
<ul style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">
<li>The presence
of cumin will stimulate the secretion of pancreatic enzymes for proper
digestion and nutrient assimilation. As with other carminative spices,
cumin's digestive stimulating effects are due to its content of volatile
oils.</li>
<li>Cumin seeds
also boost the power of the liver to flush out toxins from the body.</li>
<li>These seeds
are very rich in Iron, which makes it an essential natural health
ingredient.</li>
<li>Anti-oxidant
characteristics of cumin fight against impurities and free radicals
thereby making the body immunity better in combating diseases.</li>
<li>Cumin has
antiseptic and anti-microbial properties. It keeps various viral
infections at bay. Cumin has been found to be very beneficial for the
respiratory organs. Because of its warm nature it helps in suppressing the
mucus formation.</li>
<li>They help in
the secretion of anti-carcinogenic enzymes and helps in preventing the
growth of cancer cells. It is known to provide strong radical scavenging
activity. </li>
</span></ul>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">
</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;">
<b style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Ayurvedic
View-</b><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Cumin is bitter and slightly pungent. It decreases Vata and
Kapha and increases Pitta if taken in high doses.In Sanskrit, Cumin is
known as jiraka. Jira means “that which helps digestion”. Ayurveda
considers jiraka as one of the best digestive tonics. Some of the
Ayurvedic health benefits of cumin are that it dispels gas, eliminates
toxins, is a mild laxative, and is anti-inflammatory.Cumin kindles the
gastric fire or the agni (digestive fire). </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;">
<ul type="disc">
</ul>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"> <b><u>Mustard
seeds</u></b></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"></span><br />
<ul style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">
<li>Mustard
seeds are a good source of dietary fibers that improve digestion in the
body. They make the bowel movements better, thus improving the overall
metabolism of the body.</li>
<li>Mustard is a
good source of selenium and magnesium. Selenium helps people with asthma
and rheumatoid arthritis while magnesium lowers high blood pressure,
reduces migraines and also prevents heart attack.</li>
<li>Mustard
seeds are also a good source of omega-3 fatty acids as well as iron,
calcium, zinc, manganese, magnesium, protein, niacin and dietary fiber.</li>
<li>The seeds
contain a unique substance called mucilage which is a thick slimy
substance that is the key to relieving constipation.</li>
<li>In addition,
mustard seeds are known to increase the production of saliva, leading to
better digestion.</li>
<li>Tocopherols
present in mustard inhibit growth of certain yeasts, molds, and bacteria,
enabling mustard to function as a natural preservative. </li>
</span></ul>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">
</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;">
<b style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Ayurvedic
View </b><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">- Mustard is bitter and pungent in taste with a hot potency. It
is acrid, thermogenic, anti-inflammatory, carminative, digestive, and
tonic in quality and is recommended in vitiated conditions of Vata and
Kapha, malarial fevers, colic pain, anorexia, dyspepsia, intestinal
worms, flatulence,and inflammations.</span><br />
<ul type="disc">
</ul>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"> <b><u>Fenugreek
Seeds</u></b></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"></span><br />
<ul style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">
<li>Fenugreek is
one of the healthiest foods that a diabetic person can consume. It has
been found to lower the blood sugar level in the body and increase the
tolerance of glucose. It is high in dietary fiber like Galactomannan which
slows down the absorption of sugar in the blood.</li>
<li>Fenugreek
aids digestion. It releases mucilage which produces a protective layer for
stomach and intestines and lowers gastric problems and indigestion.</li>
<li>Fenugreek
seeds in your food can be an effective remedy for acid reflux or
heartburn.</li>
<li>Fenugreek
seeds help in lowering LDL cholesterol in the blood and increases HDL in
the body. They help in lowering triglycerides. </li>
<li>It is rich
in many essential minerals. Iron helps in the production of RBC cells and
increases hemoglobin in the body. Potassium helps in lowering the blood
pressure in the body.</li>
<li>Health
benefits of fenugreek include anti-inflammatory properties. Thus,
fenugreek can be helpful against arthritis. </li>
</span></ul>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">
</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><b>Ayurvedic
View</b>-Fenugreek is a very warming seed that mitigates kapha and vata dosha
and is used to treat constipation, high cholesterol, diabetes and obesity.</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"> It's useful in inflammatory disorders,joint pains and in diabetes etc.</span><span style="border: 1pt none windowtext; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; padding: 0in;">It is an appetizer and anti inflammatory.</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"> They have a strong aroma and are pungent. But when used in small
quantities they impart flavor to your food and are nourishing. <span style="border: 1pt none windowtext; padding: 0in;">It is an appetizer and
anti inflammatory. </span><span style="border: 1pt none windowtext; padding: 0in;"> </span></span><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"> </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;">
<b style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"> <u> Fennel Seeds</u></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"></span><br />
<ul style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">
<li>Fennel is
known to improve cognitive functions in a person. It is also helpful in
the proper circulation of oxygen to the brain cells and nerves which make
them active. Memory is enhanced by its consumption.</li>
<li>Fennel is
diuretic and thus can be helpful in flushing out the toxins from the body
and providing healthy body.</li>
<li>It is high
in dietary fibre, Vitamin-A and Vitamin-C. Minerals like
calcium, iron, magnesium, potassium, zinc and phosphorous can also be
found in it.</li>
<li>LDL
cholesterol can be lowered by its consumption as it is rich in
antioxidants and phytonutrients. Even good HDL cholesterol increases
by fennel consumption.</li>
<li>Fennel is
high in anti-carcinogenic compounds like antioxidants, flavonoids,
alkaloids and phenols. </li>
</span></ul>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">
</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; text-indent: -0.25in;"><b>Ayurvedic View-</b></span><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; text-indent: -0.25in;"> Fennel is described as being
especially good for reducing colic. Fennel is also known for its ability to
improve<span class="apple-converted-space"> </span><em>mandagni</em><span class="apple-converted-space"> </span>(low digestion ) It also helps in the
case of constipation (<em>baddhavit</em>), and fights<span class="apple-converted-space"> </span><em>krimi</em><span class="apple-converted-space"> </span>(pathogenic
microbes).</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; text-indent: -0.25in;"><br /></span>
<b style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"> <u>Nigella
/ Kalonji Seeds</u></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"></span><br />
<ul style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">
<li>It is also
known to benefit the stomach because of its anti-bacterial properties.</li>
<li>It possesses
heart-protective qualities, dampening damages associated with heart
attacks and boosting overall heart health.</li>
<li>The
pharmacological investigations of the seed extracts reveal a broad
spectrum of activities including immunopotentiation, antihistaminic,
antidiabetic, anti-hypertensive, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial
activities.</li>
<li>The seeds
are also rich in sterols, especially beta-sitosterol, which is known to
have anti carcinogenic activity.</li>
<li>Black seed
helps to ease gastro-intestinal disorders. It contains an essential oil nigellone
that helps to cleanse the stomach thoroughly. It also stimulates bile,
therefore aiding the digestive process.</li>
<li>So, it's
time to move over all those exotic spices. Just revel in the power of five
for an authentic taste. </li>
</span></ul>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">
</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"> </span><b style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Ayurvedic
view-</b><span style="color: windowtext; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Kalonji is a very good Ayurvedic medicine and
Ayurved appreciates its many qualities and bitter, warming, stimulant
nature.It also has vata and kapha reducing traits. It is used in wide
variety of diseases like hemorrhoids, hepatitis, fever, diarrhea, cough,
and tapeworm, to mention only a few of them. Nigella Sativa works in a
different way, which makes it suitable for diseases of the immune system
itself, eg. Allergies; TB; cancer; aids etc.</span><br />
<ul type="disc">
</ul>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<b><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Conclusion</span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">The
five spices used in Panch phoron have immence health benefits.Only few
important health benefits have been mentioned above as it's interminable to
quote all the uses.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">There
are enormous health advantages of this healthy unification if used regularly in
the diet. If you have not tried this strong authentic flavorful spice blend, do
give it a shot.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<br /></div>
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<br /></div>
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<br /></div>
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<br /></div>
<br />
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<br /></div>
</div>
</div>
Vaishali G Kamathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13368641312089476984noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4746605527351922533.post-63756051246041798222014-01-29T20:33:00.000+05:302014-02-28T01:58:50.032+05:30Squatting – the best toilet posture....<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<div style="text-align: left;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbbz1Xx27JM-77uUdZBc74IBfZuJaO7yjzS_1fFEgl_s046lQ8IOZi0ZSc41qNJ8ceZ42rjtud_lBmvdFitePd3S2chkKw2TvwmuhQ-H8L4JLoYWW2c0HXhtTpo913Oq1rnOdiCURwz_vx/s1600/images+%25281%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 16pt; line-height: 115%; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbbz1Xx27JM-77uUdZBc74IBfZuJaO7yjzS_1fFEgl_s046lQ8IOZi0ZSc41qNJ8ceZ42rjtud_lBmvdFitePd3S2chkKw2TvwmuhQ-H8L4JLoYWW2c0HXhtTpo913Oq1rnOdiCURwz_vx/s1600/images+%25281%2529.jpg" height="343" width="400" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: 16pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">The best posture for passing stools is squatting. In this
position, waste elimination is easier, faster and complete.</span></span><span style="font-size: 16pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Sitting, on the other hand, obstructs the passage of
waste through the colon. Elimination is difficult, requires straining and can
never be complete.</span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: 16pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></span><span style="font-size: 16pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Ayurveda recommends that one should evacuate the bowels
every morning, and feel that the colon is clean and light. Feeling energetic
and relaxed are signs of proper evacuation.</span></span><span style="font-size: 16pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"> </span></span><span style="font-size: 16pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Inability to completely evacuate the bowels or passing
very hard stools is known as Constipation or Vibandh in Ayurveda. This
prevalent problem is due to an incorrect lifestyle and poor eating patterns. Wrong position for evacuation can also be one
of the major reasons.</span></span><span style="font-size: 16pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"> </span></span><span style="font-size: 16pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Squatting is the most natural and physiologically sound
posture to use for evacuation. Proper
elimination is one of the basic core foundations for a healthy digestive system
and good absorption of nutrients. To aid this process and allow the body to
make use of its natural urge, a squatting style toilet has been used for
centuries. In fact, constipation in a huge percentage of cases can be avoided
by just switching to a squatting style toilet!</span></span><span style="font-size: 16pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"> </span></span><span style="font-size: 16pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Now, people all over the world who are constipated are
advised to squat for a couple of minutes before going to the bathroom or to use
a squatting stool. This simple and efficient method can take a little while to
get accustomed to but can go a long way in preventing constipation and hundreds
of other gastrointestinal problems.</span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: 16pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></span><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="font-size: 16pt; line-height: 115%;">One should try to have a bowel movement daily. If one </span><span style="font-size: 21px; line-height: 24.533334732055664px;">doesn't</span><span style="font-size: 16pt; line-height: 115%;"> have the bowel movement, it is good to simply squat for a few minutes
without forcing. Practicing this daily, following the consumption of the glass
of Luke warm water will develop a good habit in promoting consistent and
healthy bowel movement.</span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="font-size: 16pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<b style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 16pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-size: 16pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Western
toilet seat to blame for constipation?</span></span></b></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: 16pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Constipation,
while not life-threatening in most case, can be quite debilitating. Being
constipated can lead to an array of problems: bad breath, weight gain,
allergies, bloating, poor nutrient assimilation, fatigue, migraine, breakouts,
heart burn, lower back pain and sadly, the list goes on. Unfortunately, many
people even grew to believe that going to the toilet 2-3 times a week is
normal. It is a bad news since all the waste that is not eliminated is rotting
inside and changes the blood chemistry in your body allowing the disease to set
in.</span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: 16pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></span><span style="font-size: 16pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Digestion
builds blood and feeds all our organs. To create good blood and healthy new
cells, we need good digestion.</span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: 16pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></span><span style="font-size: 16pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">If
fecal matter stays inside too long food starts to rot and creates toxins and
waste products. Waste products can irritate the intestines. Overtime
constipation can result in gray, lusterless skin, emotional disturbances, tight
muscles, low immunity and joint pain.</span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: 16pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"> </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvBsCGN_g8IsyuHn_gragL2-SG2frSTf3SnaTNl885UVpeUyz3QPdcxa82Ia5jznbe7nRd-LMxpzypR5hqjvkAA4DBDpJmcxvAestQl_vjadW0JbvJnHUmtvRX1DfFpo83gU-OjC1V4u12/s1600/download+%25281%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvBsCGN_g8IsyuHn_gragL2-SG2frSTf3SnaTNl885UVpeUyz3QPdcxa82Ia5jznbe7nRd-LMxpzypR5hqjvkAA4DBDpJmcxvAestQl_vjadW0JbvJnHUmtvRX1DfFpo83gU-OjC1V4u12/s1600/download+%25281%2529.jpg" height="332" width="400" /></a></span></div>
<b><span style="font-size: 16pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Advantages of
Squatting</span></span></b><br />
<ul style="text-align: left;">
<li><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 16pt; line-height: 115%;">Makes elimination faster, easier and more complete. This
helps prevent "fecal stagnation," a prime factor in colon cancer,
appendicitis and inflammatory bowel disease.</span></li>
<li style="font-size: 16pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="font-size: 16pt; line-height: 115%;">Protects the nerves that control the prostate, bladder
and uterus from becoming stretched and damaged.</span></span></li>
<li style="font-size: 16pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="font-size: 16pt; line-height: 115%;">Securely seals the ileocecal valve, between the colon and
the small intestine. In the conventional sitting position, this valve is
unsupported and often leaks during evacuation, contaminating the small
intestine.</span></span></li>
<li style="font-size: 16pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="font-size: 16pt; line-height: 115%;">Relaxes the puborectalis muscle which normally chokes the
rectum in order to maintain continence.</span></span></li>
<li style="font-size: 16pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="font-size: 16pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Squatting lifts the sigmoid colon to unlock the
"kink" at the entrance to the rectum. This kink also helps prevent
inco</span></span><span style="font-size: 16pt; line-height: 115%;">ntinence, by taking some of the pressure off the puborectalis muscle.</span></span></li>
<li style="font-size: 16pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="font-size: 16pt; line-height: 115%;">Gravity does most of the work. The weight of the torso
presses against the thighs and naturally compresses the colon. Gentle pressure
from the diaphragm supplements the force of gravity.</span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="font-size: 16pt; line-height: 115%;">Uses the thighs to support the colon and prevent
straining. Chronic straining on the toilet can cause hernias, </span><span style="font-size: 21px; line-height: 24.533334732055664px;">diverticulitis</span><span style="font-size: 16pt; line-height: 115%;">,
and pelvic organ prolapse.</span></span></li>
<li style="font-size: 16pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="font-size: 16pt; line-height: 115%;">For pregnant women, squatting avoids pressure on the
uterus when using the toilet. Daily squatting helps prepare one for a more
natural delivery hence Malasana (Garland pose) is advised in prenatal yoga .</span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: 16pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-size: 16pt; line-height: 115%;">When in squatting posture urinary bladder evacuates
completely, because in this position the human body is more naturally relaxed
and that helps urine to completely leave our body thereby preventing various
urinary disorders.</span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: 16pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-size: 16pt; line-height: 115%;">Squatting also helps to tone and strengthen the leg muscles.</span></span></li>
</ul>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<b><span style="font-size: 16pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Historical
Background</span></span></b></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<b><span style="font-size: 16pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></span></b><span style="font-size: 16pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Man,
like his fellow primates, has always used the squatting position for resting,
working and performing bodily functions. Infants of every culture instinctively
squat to relieve themselves. Although it may seem strange to someone who has
spent his entire life deprived of the experience, this is the way the human
body was designed to function.</span></span><span style="font-size: 16pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">And this is the way our ancestors performed
their bodily functions until the middle of the 19th century. Before that time,
chair-like toilets had only been used by royalty and the disabled. But with the
advent of indoor plumbing in the 1800's, the throne-like water closet was invented
to give ordinary people the same "dignity" previously reserved for
kings and queens.</span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: 16pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: 16pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">The plumber and cabinet maker who designed it had no knowledge
of human physiology – and sincerely believed that they were improving people's
lives.</span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: 16pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></span><span style="font-size: 16pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">The
British plumbing industry moved quickly to install indoor plumbing and water
closets throughout the country. The great benefits of improved sanitation caused
people to overlook a major ergonomic blunder: The sitting position makes
elimination difficult and incomplete, and forces one to strain.</span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: 16pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></span><span style="font-size: 16pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">The
rest of Western Europe, as well as Australia and North America, did not want to
appear less civilized than Great Britain, whose vast empire at the time made it
the most powerful country on Earth. So, within a few decades, most of the
industrialized world had adopted "The Emperor's New Throne."</span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: 16pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></span><span style="font-size: 16pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">150
years ago, no one could have predicted how this change would affect the health
of the population. But today, many physicians blame the modern toilet for the
high incidence of a number of serious ailments. Westernized countries have much
higher rates of colon and pelvic disease, as compared to developing countries.</span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: 16pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></span><span style="font-size: 16pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">This
theory reflects the common belief that our society is "clean" while
the developing world is "dirty." In terms of colon hygiene, exactly
the opposite is the case. What protects the developing world from bowel disease
is the natural cleanliness that comes from evacuating as nature intended. By
contrast, our contrived toilet posture leads to fecal stagnation – the primary
cause of colon cancer and inflammatory bowel disease. </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 16pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"> </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcrHPjOnzCMutG0chvMeRmWHA4JoVATDHdVTGojgRVCoJS1xO3SVt58Mv-hnxZeo68UlpmkVNqtq0oQasywhBh9lvAjZIshGAi5mi5JqvbVorJ-wxmyfFgLnuzXtCT3fx6ULUe1ljxDo71/s1600/download+%25283%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcrHPjOnzCMutG0chvMeRmWHA4JoVATDHdVTGojgRVCoJS1xO3SVt58Mv-hnxZeo68UlpmkVNqtq0oQasywhBh9lvAjZIshGAi5mi5JqvbVorJ-wxmyfFgLnuzXtCT3fx6ULUe1ljxDo71/s1600/download+%25283%2529.jpg" height="243" width="400" /></a></span></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: left;">
<b><span style="font-size: 16pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">There
are several ways you can manage to turn your present toilet into one where you
can squat:</span></span></b></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: 16pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 16pt; line-height: 115%;">A
few companies made ‘going back’ to the squatting basics a bit easier for us
spoiled Westerners. Squatty Potty, Health Step, and The Welles Step are among a
few of those products. Here is how Squatty Potty is described..</span><br /><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 16pt; line-height: 115%;">“The
Squatty Potty helps you to eliminate faster and more complete by putting your
body into a natural squatting position over your own toilet. Using the Squatty
Potty during elimination will un-kink your rectum taking your body from a
continent mode to an elimination mode. This will speed up the elimination
process therefore reducing the risk of toxic build up of fecal matter left in
your colon. Using the squatty potty for elimination will reduce straining and
decreases the pressure in the anal and rectal veins. The reduction of straining
will help to heal and prevent hemorrhoids. It will also reduce the risk of
bowel herniation and other damage to the lower digestive tract. The Squatty
Potty is attractive and will discretely tuck under your toilet bowl when not in
use. Its versatile design allows for both a forward and backward slant to
ergonomically align the body for a comfortable and complete elimination.”</span><br /><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="font-size: 21px; line-height: 24.533334732055664px;"><br /></span></span><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 16pt; line-height: 115%;">It
can be used by men and women of all ages; pregnant women may find it especially
comforting and relieving, according to the Health Step reviews.</span><br /><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 16pt; line-height: 24.533334732055664px;">You can get detailed information about squatty Potty in the link given below</span><br /><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="font-size: 21px; line-height: 24.533334732055664px;"><br /></span></span><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pYcv6odWfTM" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 16pt; line-height: 24.533334732055664px;"><span style="color: black;">https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pYcv6odWfTM</span></a><br /><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="font-size: 21px; line-height: 24.533334732055664px;"><br /></span></span><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 16pt; line-height: 115%;">Pile up bricks around your toilet (make sure they are safe and sturdy)</span><div>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="font-size: 16pt; line-height: 115%;">Consider having a real eastern toilet in your house </span></span><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="font-size: 16pt; line-height: 115%;"><b>Conclusion </b> Trying to evacuate while sitting is like trying to drive a car without releasing the parking brake.In f</span></span><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="font-size: 16pt; line-height: 115%;">rustration, one pushes down forcefully depressing the pelvic
floor many times each day.</span></span><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 16pt; line-height: 115%;">In
short, the porcelain throne has caused enormous amounts of needless suffering,
and the annual waste of billions of dollars in health-care costs. Clearly, the
time has come to reacquaint people with natural habits for evacuation used by
our ancestors.</span></div>
<div>
<ul style="text-align: left;">
</ul>
<br />
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: 16pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></span><span style="font-size: 16pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"> Stay Healthy!!</span></span></div>
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</div>
Vaishali G Kamathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13368641312089476984noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4746605527351922533.post-84446478818259249182013-11-15T13:13:00.001+05:302013-12-27T10:53:46.996+05:30Medicinal Properties of Ajamoda (carom seeds)<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbmtLOiBJ1rzexbn3JRj8-io4umqrIdLZGXiJ_NBBAX4b4k9_qr-RrzJ203cXfTLWT_mWTItn8sVpaFnXcY20brxHLr8KzySuaPQQABl6aKyxo_8aELZ1npgns9HV2K0d3mTaxXV-mWcjH/s1600/Ajowan.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="206" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbmtLOiBJ1rzexbn3JRj8-io4umqrIdLZGXiJ_NBBAX4b4k9_qr-RrzJ203cXfTLWT_mWTItn8sVpaFnXcY20brxHLr8KzySuaPQQABl6aKyxo_8aELZ1npgns9HV2K0d3mTaxXV-mWcjH/s640/Ajowan.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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Carom seeds or bishop’s weed also
known as ajwain is a common herb found in Indian households and is well known
for properties that make it one of the most used home remedies. But other than
being a good digestive aid, it has a number of other health benefits which are
not known to common people.</div>
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<br /></div>
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<o:p></o:p></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14pt;"><b>Plant description…</b><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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A valuable Ayurvedic ingredient Ajwain
or bishop's weed is cultivated in black soil particularly along the riverbank
throughout India and also Iran, Egypt and Afghanistan. It is a small, erect,
annual shrub with soft fine hairs. It has many branches of leafy stems, small
feather like leaves, and 4 to 12 rays of flower heads, each bearing 6 to 16
flowers. The fruits are minute, egg shaped and grayish.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14pt;"><b>Nomenclature…</b><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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Common name • Bengali: <span style="font-family: Vrinda, sans-serif;">জোয়ান</span> Jowan • Gujarati: <span style="font-family: Shruti, sans-serif;">યવણો</span> Yavano • Hindi: <span style="font-family: Mangal, serif;">अजवाइन</span>, <span style="font-family: Mangal, serif;">अजवायन</span> Ajwain • Kannada: ajamoola, oma, omu,
ajamoda • Marathi: <span style="font-family: Mangal, serif;">ओवा</span>
Ova • Nepali: <span style="font-family: Mangal, serif;">जवानो</span>
Javano • Sanskrit: <span style="font-family: Mangal, serif;">अजमोद</span>
Ajamoda, <span style="font-family: Mangal, serif;">अजमोदिका</span> Ajamodika, dipyaka,• Tamil: <span style="font-family: Latha, sans-serif;">ஓமம்</span> Omam • Telugu: omaan, vamu • Urdu: <span style="font-family: Mangal, serif;">अजवाइन</span> Ajwain <o:p></o:p></div>
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Botanical name: Trachyspermum
ammi Family: Apiaceae (Carrot family)<o:p></o:p></div>
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English names: Bishop's Weed, Carom
Seeds, Thymol Seeds<o:p></o:p></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14pt;"><b>According to ayurveda…</b><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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Ajwain is an indigenous spice used in
ayurveda from ancient times. Ajwain, sometimes called ajowan, is a commonly
used ayurvedic spice. Ajwain is a popular spice throughout India. It used in
savory snacks like Farsan. Ajwain seeds are found in most Indian households due
to their medicinal properties. Ajwain is considered to be an effective medicine
for treating indigestion.<o:p></o:p></div>
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During ancient times ayurvedic
physicians used ajwain in many ailments like colds, flu, water retention, poor
digestion, fevers, various types of arthritis, liver and spleen ailments. It
promotes kidney function, energizes the nerves, is a powerful decongestant for
both the digestive and respiratory tract, clearing out deep-seated ama
(toxins), reviving stagnant metabolic functioning, relieving intestinal spasms,
vitalizing Prana, samana & udana, It is often used in weight-reducing
formulas. <o:p></o:p></div>
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Ajwain seeds or bishop's weed is an
effective ingredient in preparing many ayurvedic and unani medicines. It helps
in curing the disorders such as ulcers, ringworm, itching, stomach worm, bile,
menstrual and post-natal disorders, leucorrhoea, female infertility, pimples,
kidney stones and many more, and also useful as an aphrodisiac.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Ajwain is pungent and hot, stomachic,
bitter, spasmodic, germicidal, antiseptic, appetizer, digestive, aphrodisiac,
anthelmintic, carminative, diuretic, diaphoretic, laxative , antipyretic,
expectorant and an extra ordinary stomach tonic. It is counted among the 10
foremost herbs known for their anti-colic or anti-spasmodic action. <o:p></o:p></div>
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Rasa: Katu, Tikta<o:p></o:p></div>
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Guna: Laghu, Ruksha, Tikshna<o:p></o:p></div>
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Virya: Ushna<o:p></o:p></div>
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Vipaka: Katu<o:p></o:p></div>
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Karma: Sulahara, Anulomana, Dipana,
Krmighna, Pacana, Rucya<o:p></o:p></div>
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Dosha effect: Pacifies the Vata and
Kapha, may increase Pitta( if taken in excess)<o:p></o:p></div>
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Dhatu effect (tissues): Plasma,
marrow, nerves<o:p></o:p><br />
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<span style="font-size: 14pt;"><b>Chemical constituents</b><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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The main chemical constituents of the
seeds of the herb are 21.8% fat, 21.2% fibre, and 24.6% carbohydrates per 100
grams of the seeds. The main minerals in the seeds are calcium, phosphorus and
iron, while its major vitamins are carotene, thiamine, riboflavin and niacin.
When crushed, the seeds yield an essential oil, 50% of which consists of
thymol, a well-known antiseptic compound.<o:p></o:p><br />
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<span style="font-size: 14pt;"><b>Selection and storage</b><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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Ajwain is readily available in spice
stores specialized in Indian or Middle-Eastern items. In general, whole ajwain seeds
displayed for sale unlike in other spices such as dill, cumin, coriander, etc.
Buy fresh, wholesome, compact seeds that give rich thyme like flavor when
rubbed between fingers. Dried
Ajmoda is best purchased in small amounts and regularly, as it loses its color
and flavor rapidly when sitting on a supermarket shelf. Look for deep-green
'flakes' that are free from pieces of stalk and yellow leaves.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Once at home, store the seeds in an
airtight container and place in cool dark place away from sunlight, and
humidity. Generally, ajowain seeds should be used as early as possible since
they lose flavor rather quickly, largely because of evaporation of essential
oils.<o:p></o:p><br />
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<span style="font-size: 14pt;"><b>Culinary uses</b><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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Ajwain seeds mainly feature in savory
Indian, Pakistani, and Middle-Eastern cooking. In order to keep the fragrance
and flavor intact, ajowan seeds are generally crushed just before preparing
dishes and added to the cooking recipes at final stages. This is because
prolonged cooking results in evaporation of essential oils. They are quite
peppery when raw, but milder when cooked.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Tadka or Tempering is a cooking method
in which cooking oil is heated till very hot and whole spices are added to it
and fried. This oil and spice mix is then added as a final touch or garnish to
the dish. In Indian cooking, Ajwain is often part of (panchphoran) the Tadka in
a dish. This is because of its strong,
dominant flavor. Ajwain is also used in vegetable dishes (for its distinctive
taste) and pickles (for its preservative qualities). Ajwain has properties that
help it reduce the flatulence causing effect of beans. It also aids in
digestion.<o:p></o:p></div>
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In Punjab province of India and
Pakistan, the spice seeds particularly added to make bread known as ajwain
paratha. Some Indian vegetarian bean/lentil and chicken/fish curries contain
this spice and in the Middle East, it is used to flavor meat and rice dishes.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Ajwain is commonly added to deep-fried
foods, such as fritters, in Indian cooking, to help ease of digestion. A pinch
added to buttermilk or digestive lassi can promote digestion if taken after
lunch. Add a pinch to rice as it is cooking, for aroma and flavor. Ajwain can
be combined with other spices such as turmeric, paprika, cumin, black pepper,
fennel and coriander. <o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
The seeds used generously as condiment
in snacks, spicy biscuits, to flavor drinks, soups, sauces in India.Due to its multiple
benefits it is the part and parcel of every Indian kitchen.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<b>Safety profile</b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
Since ajwain seeds induce gut
secretions, they may exacerbate existing stomach ulcer/ulcer bleeding
conditions.In addition, recipes prepared using this spice may be avoided in
individuals with liver diseases, ulcerative colitis etc.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
Since it’s hot in potency it should be
limitedly used in hot climates and can be freely used in cold climates.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<b><span style="font-size: 14pt;">Medicinal Uses<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<b><span style="font-size: 14pt;"><br /></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<b>Gastro-intestinal disorders</b><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
Ajwain is packed with thymol. In fact
it’s the only plant in the world with the highest amount of thymol. This
chemical is very effective in helping the stomach release gastric juices that
speed up digestion. It is known to help in cases of indigestion, flatulence,
nausea and relieve colicky pain in babies. <o:p></o:p><br />
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
As a carminative, it relieves
intestinal gas, pain & distention, & promotes peristalsis.For relieving
flatulence, dyspepsia and spasmodic disorders; the seeds may be eaten with
betel leaves. A teaspoon of ajwain with a little rock salt is a household
remedy for indigestion. Ajwain oil given in doses of 1 to 3 drops is useful in
cholera, flatulent, colic, diarrhea, a tonic dyspepsia and indigestion. Ajwain
water is given in doses of 30 to 60 grams to check vomiting in early stages of
cholera.<o:p></o:p><br />
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
Tip: Boil a teaspoon of the seeds in a
cup of water till it is reduced to half, strain and drink this water for
instant relief.<o:p></o:p><br />
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<b>Improves digestion when you’re pregnant or lactating<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
Due to its great anti-inflammatory and
curative properties, ajwain is great for pregnant and lactating mothers. It
helps to improve digestion, ward off constipation due to pregnancy and
strengthens the muscles that make up the floor of the uterus. After pregnancy
ajwain is known to heal the woman’s body internally, reduce inflammation and
helps maintain good circulation. In some cultures it is also believed to
improve the production of milk in lactating mothers. It helps to cleanse the
uterus & benefit digestion during pregnancy; it is prescribed, and
beneficial for post-delivery fever.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
During pregnancy, Ajwain is given with
gud (Jaggery) in order to treat lumbago (Kamar dard). According to the healers,
the use of Ajwain with gud, not only cures the lumbago but also purifies the
blood and act as tonic. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
Tip: It is important that
mothers-to-be do not eat too much of this seed. The seed is known to increase
the heat causing pitta levels in the body and can cause problems with the
pregnancy.<o:p></o:p><br />
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<b>Respiratory Problems<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<b>Common Cold<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
In an acute attack of common cold or
migraine headache, put Ajwain powder in a thin cloth and smell this frequently.
It gives tremendous symptomatic relief.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<b>For bronchitis<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
If you have chronic bronchitis and
asthma, take the mixture of Ajwain and jaggery, heat it to make a paste and
take 2 teaspoonfuls twice a day. However, diabetics should not take this
preparation because of the sugar content. It helps to bring out the mucus easily
and alleviates chronic bronchitis and asthma to great extent. It also helps in
getting relief from chronic cold.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
Another quick method is to tie it in a
soft cloth and heat the bundle over a warm tawa. Apply this warm bundle over
the chest to relieve congestion immediately.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
Taking one-teaspoon ajwain with hot
water morning and evening lesson sputum in bronchitis and asthama cases.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<b>For Cough<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
Ajwain is very effective in curing
cough. One can drink hot water after chewing little Ajwain to cure cough. You
can chew betel leaf with Ajwain at night before sleeping to control and cure
dry cough.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<b>For nasal congestion<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
A tablespoon of crushed Ajwain tied up
in a small cloth bundle can be used for inhalation. It also relieves nasal
congestion while sleeping when placed near the pillow.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<b>For flu<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
A person suffering from influenza
should drink the boiled water with 3gms of Ajwain and 3gms of Cinnamon bark for
3 days, thrice a day. This helps in curing influenza to a great extent.<o:p></o:p><br />
<b>Rheumatic and arthritic pain</b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
Due to its anti-inflammatory and
anaesthetic properties, ajwain is a good way to get rid of pain due to
rheumatism and arthritis. Try soaking your aching joints in a pan of warm water
with a few seeds of ajwain. Alternatively you could crush the seed and apply
the paste on the affected area for instant relief.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
The oil extracted from seeds is
beneficial in the treatment of rheumatic and neuralgic pains. It should be
applied on the affected parts.They are an excellent pain-killer and act as an
anodyne, soothing, calming, comforting and diminishing pain due to presence of
thymol.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
Care should be taken while applying
oil directly to sensitive skin. Dilute ajwain seed oil with some base oil
(sesame or coconut oil).<o:p></o:p><br />
<b>Mouth disorders</b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
An infusion of seeds mixed with common
salt is an effective gargle to cure pharyngitis, sore and congested throat and
hoarseness of the voice due to colds or shouting.<o:p></o:p><br />
<b>Earache</b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
Due to its antiseptic properties
ajwain mixed with garlic and sesame oil provides instant relief from earache.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<b>Aphrodisiac Properties<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
Ajwain is a great aphrodisiac. Mixing
ajwain with the seeds of tamrind, honey, ghee and milk is a great way to
increase vitality. Having the mixture every day helps improve vitality and
libido. Soaking the seeds in lemon juice and drying them seven times will cure
impotence when ingested<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<b>Keeps the heart healthy<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
Due to the presence of niacin and
thymol along with other vitamins, ajwain is very good in maintaining heart
health. It has properties that improve nerve impulses and overall circulation
within the heart. Tip: Have ajwain boiled in hot water on an empty stomach
regularly to keep heart disease at bay.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<b>Cures hiccups <o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
As mentioned earlier, ajwain has properties
that help reduce inflammation and soothes irritated nerves. Because of this, it
is a great remedy to stop hiccups instantly. Have a few raw ajwain seeds with a
few sips of warm water and watch your hiccups vanish instantly.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<b>Remedy for acidity<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
Since it helps improve digestion,
ajwain also helps in relieving acidity. Mix one teaspoon of ajwain with one
teaspoon of jeera (cumin) and boil them in a glass of water. The solution
should have a golden colour. Drink this whenever there is an attack of acidity
for instant relief.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<b>Relieves pain due to migraines<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
Sniffing the fumes of ajwain or
applying its paste on the head helps to obtain relief from migraine and
delirium. When the seed is burned or crushed into a poultice, it releases its
essential oils high in thymol content.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<b>Toothache<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
Give smoke to the aching tooth by
burning ajwain seeds after two hour do gargle with lukewarm water (prepared by
boiling 1 tsp. ground ajwain with little salt) two to three times a day, it
cures tooth pain. It is used in Ayurvedic tooth powders.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
They are an excellent pain-killer and
act as an anodyne, soothing, calming, comforting and diminishing pain. They
contain the essential oil thymol, which acts very quickly on the system.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<b>Fights body odour<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
Instead of using chemical deodorants
to mask body odor, ajwan tea will cure the cause of the odor from the inside
out by destroying bad bacteria.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<b>Urinary disorders<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
Ajwain leaves seem to prevent
formation of kidney stones. In kidney stone removal home- made herbal remedy of
Ajwain works well. Patients are to intake Ajwain seeds with honey or vinegar
for a week regularly, this medicine helps to remove stone through urine flow. As
a diuretic, it promotes the activity of kidney & bladder & increase
urination, and as a lithotripter, it dissolves & discharges gall bladder
& urinary stones & gravel. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<b>For Alcoholics<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
If people who consume excessive
alcohol develop discomfort in the stomach, taking Ajwain twice a day, will be
very useful. It will also reduce the craving and desire for alcohol.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<b>Venomous insect bite<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
In traditional Vedic medicine, paste
of ajwain seeds is mentioned as a remedy for venomous insect bite such as
scorpion bite, as it has pain killing properties.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<b>Reduce weight<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
Drink half glass of water with soaked
carom seeds on an empty stomach. This will dissolve the fats. Consume 1tsp of
carom seeds on an empty stomach every morning. This remedy needs to be
continued for 3-4 months consistently for notable result.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<b>Paralysis<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
Carom seeds soaked in water and
consumed daily can be useful in treating paralysis, trembling and shaking.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<b>Bed Wetting<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
Take 50 grams black sesame, 25 grams
carom seeds and 100 grams of jaggery. Mix them well. Consume this mixture 1tsp
twice a day. This will help in treating frequent urination and bedwetting
especially in kids.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<b>Urticaria<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
Consume 1 gram of carom seeds with 3
grams of jaggery. This is a useful remedy to cure this.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<b>Acidity<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
Dry roast one teaspoon of ajwain seeds
and cumin seeds. Add to it one cup of water and bring it to boil and strain it.
Add some sugar and take one teaspoon as a remedy for indigestion and acidity<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<b><span style="font-size: 14pt;">Products derived from ajmoda…<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<b>Ajmoda ark/owa water<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
Ajwain water that is the water
distilled from the ajwain seeds in an excellent carminative that cures
flatulence, indigestion & low appetite.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<b>Ajmoda oil<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
Ajwain seeds, when crushed and put
through the process of Steam distillation, yield essential oil with high
medicinal value because it contains Thymol. This oil has long been believed to
be the principal source of Thymol.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<b>Ajwain tea<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
Method to make Ajwain tea<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
Ingredients<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
Water 1 cup<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
Milk 1 cup<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
Cumin ¼ tsp<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
Sugar 2 tsp<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
Ajwain 1/4 tsp<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
Cinnamon 1 pinch<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
Method<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
Take 1 cup of water. Add ajwain, cumin
and cinnamon. Bring to a boil.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
Then add milk and sugar. Bring to a
boil and let simmer till the desired color is obtained.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
Cover for a minute. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
Strain & serve.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
Benefits<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
Consumption of carom seeds tea can
help in cleansing body toxins. Thus, this can reduce many skin and health
related problems. This helps to purify blood and improve the blood flow in
body.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
Useful in alleviating colds and cough.
Aids digestion and stimulates metabolism.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<b>Other uses<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
Mosquito repellent:<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
Mix mustard oil with ground carom
seeds. Dip cardboard pieces in this mixture and tie in the corners of your
room. This will help you get rid of the mosquitoes from the room.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<b>Facts about carom seeds:<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
Keep them away from humidity and also from
direct sunlight.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
Carom seeds cannot be stored for a
long time.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
Avoid over consumption. It can lead to nausea,
vomiting, skin irritation, allergy and headache in some people.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
Proper intake doesn't have any side effects.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
Store them in air-tight bottle in a cool and
dry place.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
</div>
Vaishali G Kamathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13368641312089476984noreply@blogger.com18tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4746605527351922533.post-7989128613870303032013-10-24T12:35:00.001+05:302013-10-24T12:35:09.356+05:30Myths and Facts about Ayurveda...<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;">Ayurveda has been widely recognized
as a system of natural healthcare congenial to the health needs of the modern
world. However, despite its increasing popularity across the globe, many people
are often hesitant in approaching Ayurveda. The main reasons could be that
ayurveda is associated with handful of myths and misconceptions.Though the
treatment therapies of ayurveda are widely sought around the world, people tend
to have more delusions than proper awareness about this ancient treatment.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><b>Myth-Ayurveda is slow.</b></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Fact -This is a general fallacy
about Ayurveda. It is this myth that keep people away from seeking the help of
Ayurveda therapies most of the times. There are fast curing medicines in
Ayurveda too. The aspect of slow cure is because of the curing Principle of
Ayurveda is different from modern medicines. Modern medicines usually treat the
symptoms not the disease. Ayurveda diagnosis the root causes of the disease and
tries to uproot them perpetually.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">I would once again contradict this
statement. The irony lies with the delay from the patient’s side. Most of the
patients visiting holistic practitioners take their time in trying the other
systems of medicine so as to derive a faster result. This not only delays the
effect of the medicine, it also hampers with the working of the drug. This is
because the patient has either tried much more complicated and powerful
combinations of drugs, the effect of which needs to be neutralized first. Or in
the mean time his malady has substantially become deep rooted and taken chronic
form.Unfortunately, in such cases, many people don’t have the patience to allow
Ayurvedic medicines to show their effect. When they see no immediate
improvement, they quickly switch to other alternatives. It is important to
realize that Ayurveda can be highly effective if the patient approaches it in
early stages and gives it time to heal their body.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Patient will always be inclined
towards a person, who can reassure him and promise a fast cure. There are many
Ayurveda physicians who generally tend to ignore this fact. They often say
patient; “treatment will be very long and you have to take medicines for a long
period to get relief.” Such statements of physician will indeed harm the
patient. It will increase his fear and the effect of medicines may also be
delayed.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Thus, it’s physician knowledge and
skills, which can lead to a successful and fast treatment leading to a healthy
individual<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><b>Myth-Ayurveda is only home remedies.</b><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Fact-Ayurveda is not just a form of
treatment, it is a way of life. Yes, it is a lot about herbs and home remedies,
but that’s not all to it. If adapted in their entirety, ayurvedic
principles can be extremely beneficial in making your life more balanced,
healthy and productive. Ayurvedic treatment taken under the supervision of
a qualified physician is based on many parameters of patient as well as the
disease. So, it should not be compared to Home-remedies. Better way is that you
should ask your physician about a particular remedy to be used or not.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><b>Myth-Ayurveda is only meant for
people with chronic ailments.</b><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Fact- Most people do not
approach Ayurveda in the initial stages of their problem as they believe it is
only meant for chronic stage of disease. Although, it has been
proven effective in treating chronic disorders especially diabetes, arthritis,
asthma, obesity, skin diseases, etc. It is also beneficial for
people suffering from common ailments like indigestion, headache, cold &
cough, fever, etc. Herbal medicines, Panchakarma therapies and customized diet
and lifestyle plan are recommended to each patient in ayurveda, irrespective of
the severity of disease.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><b>Myth-Ayurveda Medicine is only
another Alternative Therapy.</b><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Fact -I believe
that Ayurveda system of medicine is incorrectly quoted as an
alternative therapy as this has always been the most ancient and complete
system of medicine. It has been in existence since times immemorial, long back
before the emerging of all other therapies. Moreover in India we deem that
Ayurveda origins straight from the Gods more than five thousand years ago! The
word Ayurveda itself is derived from ‘Ayush’ which means life, and ‘Veda’ which
means science. Therefore, Ayurveda is the complete ‘Science of Life’. The
importance of Ayurveda can be acknowledged by the mere fact that a whole Veda
has been dedicated to it. We need to understand that Ayurveda is an ancient
heritage. It is a treasure to be valued and acknowledged so as to provide the
humanity with a life full of health,vigor and vitality.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Ayurveda has been considered by a
majority of society as a treatment method similar to allopathic or homeopathic.
But, in fact, Ayurveda scripts clearly construe that it is purely a lifestyle.
I would want to say here that although Ayurveda therapy generally calls for
more patience and endurance both on the part of the patient as well as the
doctor, yet its efficacy cannot be undermined. The effectiveness of this
natural therapy may be cited by this example. Whenever there is a rip in a
cloth or a crack in a pitcher, we intend to rectify it using the similar
material that it is made of (cloth and mud respectively). Similarly any fault
in the human body also demands to be corrected by use of natural resources, as
much as possible. Our body absorbs and responds much better to nature and Ayurveda is
all natural!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><b>Myth-Ayurveda is all about herbs.</b><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Fact-Though being proclaimed as the
herbal treatment practice, Ayurveda deviates many a times from the title of an
herbal therapy. The use of products like milk, ghee, butter, honey,
molasses, rock salts, minerals, ashes and self-fermented alcohol are common in
Ayurveda; also these are essential ingredients of several medicinal
preparations. Ayurveda cannot be called an herbal therapy in whole, though
majority of the medicines use natural ingredients.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><b>Myth-Ayurveda is a vegetarian therapy.</b><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Fact-It is a wonder that people
understand Ayurveda as a vegetarian treatment when the use of ghee, fish oil
& meat extract is common in Ayurveda. It is a fact that Ayurveda never
claimed to be vegetarian stream, but somehow made people deep-rooted in this
belief.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><b>Myth-Ayurveda is primitive and not a
scientific system of Medicine.</b><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Fact-Ayurveda is the science of
life. It is the traditional form of medicine for more than 5000 years. It was
very well documented when civilization had not even started in the western
countries. The human anatomy was well known and the knowledge about human body
was obtained by dissection of dead bodies. There were researches and clinical
trials that kept on increasing the knowledge gained. Diagnosis of each and
every disease, description and use of each herb, mineral and facts about food
were recovered and systematically documented. “Charaka Samhita” and “Sushruta
Samhita” are the two ancient treatises on Ayurveda that have stood the test of
time. Even surgery was known to the Ancient People and Sushurta is considered
the as Father of Surgery. Research in traditional medicines has confirmed the
efficacy of most of the natural substances used by Ayurveda doctors.
The beauty of Ayurveda is that it can, not only treat persons who are ill but
also gives utmost importance to maintain health in healthy people,so that
everyone can enjoy heath.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><b>Myth-Ayurvedic medicines
does not have side effects.</b><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Fact-When the food we eat daily, if
not taken in proper way, can lead to undesirable side-effects; how can any
medicine be free from side-effects. For example, milk has been given a status
of ‘Amrit’ in texts, can sometimes lead to abdominal pain, distension, loose
motion etc.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">There is no base to believe that
Ayurveda medicines are side effect free and can be consumed in any dose and in
any health condition. Ayurveda medicines can cause disturbing side effects like
acidity, aches, faintness,diarrhea, muscular spasms etc. if consumed without a
prescription and without proper diagnosis. These medicines are to be consumed
in the proper dose only to achieve desired effects. There are some side effects
associated with Ayurvedic therapy though these may be minimal and
rare. In other words, side effects are negligible when compared with
conventional modern therapy. Ayurvedic drugs should be taken under
supervision of a qualified Ayurvedic doctor only.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><b>Myth-Ayurvedic drugs contain heavy
metals that cause toxic effects on the liver and kidney.</b><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Fact-According to my belief the only
reason for this, if any, could be of taking the drugs that are not prepared
under accurate drug standardization and surveillance.It should be of prime
concern to purchase the medicines which have been prepared strictly under
standardized stipulations. It is true that heavy metals like mercury, lead etc
are added to certain ayurvedic preparations. If the medicines are correctly
prepared as stated in the classical texts, these metals will not cause any
harm.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Ancient ayurvedic scholars were
aware of the toxic effects of heavy metals.But certain life-saving drugs need
addition of these metals.In these preparations,the toxicity of the metals is
removed by the procedure “shodhan”(detoxification) and these metals are
converted to their colloidal state by the process “Maran”(purification), thus
avoiding the metals being deposited in the body. These two processes are very
well described in Ayurvedic texts and practised by good pharma companies
manufacturing these drugs.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><b>Myth-Ayurveda Do Not Perform
Clinical Trials & there is no standardization in Medicine.</b><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Fact-I would not agree to this false
belief because our inherent system of Ayurveda is age-old and time
tested. Since times immemorial this system of medicine has been in use and has
proved to be result oriented and justified. It would be of good concern to
ponder over the fact that the same herbal drugs and formulations that had been
used hundreds of years ago are still in use. There have been little or no
replacements whatsoever.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Ayurvedic preparations also undergo
trials regulated through Drugs & Cosmetic act, 1940, under which
pharmacopoeia standards including Standard Operating Procedures and Good
Manufacturing Practices(GMP) are mandatory to be followed.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><b>Myth-Ayurvedic medicine is offensive
in taste and odor.</b><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Fact-There is no denying of the fact
that some medicines like the blood purifiers tend to be bitter. The bitter or
pungent taste is required for the body so as to perform the cleansing act
effectively. Even then if the patient is unable to take a particular product,
the doctor would definitely suggest a combination medium like honey or mishri.
Most of the classical drugs are available in the form of powders, tablets,
syrups and decoctions etc.Yet, these days a majority of pharmaceutical
companies have come out with effective patent drugs in easy tablets and
capsules form. These are quite effective as these mostly contain extract form
of the medicine/herbs.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><b>Myth-Ayurveda medicine is too
expensive.</b><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Fact-Yes and no both are true. Yes
in the sense that only some preparations like those containing Gold, Diamond
etc. are costly. However, most Ayurvedic medicines are not so expensive to
become out of reach of common man. There are many people, who are actually
cheating and looting people and earning money in the name of Ayurveda. Such
people are doing only business and they have to do nothing regarding the
original purpose of Ayurveda.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Here, the role of Ayurveda
physicians becomes very important. They can provide economical therapy to the
people, based on their knowledge and skills.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><b>Myth-Ayurvedic medicine contains
steroids.</b><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Fact-This sort of misconceptions is
also prevalent nowadays, especially among the more cognizant class. Yet, let me
avail this chance to absolutely contradict this doubt. The medicines in the
ayurvedic system is either herb based or there are formulations prepared from
natural resources or metals that have been thoroughly prepared in accordance
with the pharmaceutical and pharmacological evidence available in the ayurvedic
texts.You could escape these doubts when visiting a registered and qualified
Ayurvedic practitioner.There is tendency among some people to patronize quacks
which gives the science and the profession a bad name. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><b>Myth-Ayurvedic Medicine is only for
Elderly Patients.</b><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Fact-There is no any known
limitation in this form of treatment. Ayurvedic medicines are actually
supportive for any age group from infants to geriatrics! It is equally
suited to all age groups. I would also state here that Ayurveda could be
considered as a boon for the children when their body system is yet tender and
in the process of immunity building. The natural products do not interfere with
their body resistance and at the same time tend to be more safe and
comforting.Ayurveda also gives guidance for planning good progeny even before
conception.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><b>Myth-Ayurvedic Medicines are not
Assorted.</b><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Fact-I would not agree to this
misconception,this is because on the contrary, Ayurvedic therapies and
medications are greatly wide ranging. There are medicines to provide relief and
cure from an ailment, and there are Ayurveda formulations that shield you from
diseases.Ayurveda science imbibes many other natural healing therapies like
Panchkarma, Yoga, Meditation,Massage therapy etc.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">In Ayurveda there are many different
types of preparations based on individual patient’s need and palatability. Some
people can easily take ‘churna’ (medicine powder), some can take tablets or
capsules, some may like ‘Avlehas’ (paste like chyawanpraash) and still some may
need ‘kwath’ (decoction of herbs), syrup and/or ‘Asavas’ and ‘Aristas’
(Fermented decoction). Each kind of preparation has its own indication and importance. There
is a extensive diversity of Ayurveda medicinal formulations.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><b>Myth-Principles of Ayurveda are not
as genuine as that of modern medicine.</b><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Fact-Ayurveda has been documented by
our ancestors as being health promotive, preventive, curative and nutritive.
The principle of Ayurveda views the body as constituted of three elements and
diseases according to the vitiation of ‘tri-doshas’ namely Vata, Pitta and
Kapha. These are responsible for various functions in the body. Each person has
a unique blend of these three doshas and hence Ayurvedic treatment is always
based on individual constitution.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Ayurveda views disease as a state of
imbalance in one or more doshas of a person. An Ayurvedic physician aims at
adjusting and balancing these doshas using a variety of therapies.The
principles of Ayurveda may not be similar to modern medicine, but they are
genuine and based on a scientific approach towards disease.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><b>Myth-Anybody can practice Ayurveda.</b><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Fact-Ayurvedic practitioners have
formal degree in Ayurveda medicine and then only they can officially practice.
B.A.M.S degree of ayurveda is 4 and1/2 years of intense, disciplined studies in
the eight different branches of Ayurveda.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Surgery(Shalya-chikitsa)</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Diseases above the Shoulder(Shalakya)</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Internalmedicine(Kaayachikitsa)</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Psychiatry(Bhutavidya)</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Pediatrics(Kaumarabhrutyam)</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Toxicology(Agadatantram)</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Rejuvenation(Rasayanam)</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Aphrodisiacs(Vajikaranam)</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">are eight branches
in Ayurveda.On successful completion of the course, there is one year of compulsory
internship which should be completed. The students undertake Post graduation
courses to become specialist in each branch if they are interested.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><b>Myth-Ayurvedic medicines do not come
with an expiry date.</b><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Fact-It is not at all true.Herbs
have chemical constituents in them and these change over time due to
environmental conditions. The expiry date of Ayurvedic herbal medicines largely
depend on the quality of herbs and ingredients used in Ayurvedic medicine
.Nature of the herb used in a particular formulation, wet or dry. You should
always follow the expiry date on the label of medicine bottle.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><b>Myth-Pulse (Naadi) is the only way
to diagnose diseases in Ayurveda.</b><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Fact-Pulse is one of the several
methods of diagnosis in Ayurveda. Importance of pulse has been well accepted in
almost all the systems of medicines.In Ayurveda many other methods are also
used like specially The ‘Astavidha rogi pareeksha’ (Eight methods to examine a
patient) which includes; Naadi (Pulse), Mutra (Urine), Mala (stool), Shabda
(voice),Jivha(tongue) Sparsha (skin), Drik (Eyes) and Aakriti (body build).<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Besides these, many other methods to
diagnose have been explained in the Ayurvedic texts. Proficiency in pulse
diagnosis is gained by long practice, alertness and guidance from the preceptor.</span><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;">Physician also uses laboratory
investigations and modern investigations like x-ray, ultrasonography etc. to
confirm the diagnosis.</span></div>
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Vaishali G Kamathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13368641312089476984noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4746605527351922533.post-61562290483183745522013-10-22T18:30:00.000+05:302017-10-31T01:31:07.058+05:30Solutions to avoid skin tantrums...<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"> </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIw4wtJAU0QK9N3NfIlUUe640YBsVGSA5GEdClKrrdg7EORQAQUf_krR0tHTdAEgjacVE8vy8qFyBIdI64EplIDLI53DCTvsGxTlThaUJV8tiW14DVyzRaz6uoVEUlaoIkZWAQOwmrWXxa/s1600/download.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="425" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIw4wtJAU0QK9N3NfIlUUe640YBsVGSA5GEdClKrrdg7EORQAQUf_krR0tHTdAEgjacVE8vy8qFyBIdI64EplIDLI53DCTvsGxTlThaUJV8tiW14DVyzRaz6uoVEUlaoIkZWAQOwmrWXxa/s640/download.jpg" width="640" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Skin tanning is also known as Sun tanning is the darkening or
tanning of the skin color.Mostly exposure to UV rays(Ultra Violet radiations) from the Sun causes
skin tanning.But some artificial sources like tanning bed, windburn, reflected
light can also cause skin tanning. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Some people use chemical products which can
produce a tanning effect without exposure to ultraviolet radiation. Chlorine
water as well as exposure to sun will make your skin tanned in the swimming
pool. </span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Chlorine tanning your skin is a very common issue with swimmers. It is
just an irritant that can react with your skin and create rashes, dry skin etc.</span></div>
</div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Moderate exposure to the sun contributes to the production of vitamin D
by the body, but excessive exposure to ultraviolet rays has detrimental health
effects, including sunburn and increased risk of skin cancer, as well as
depressed immune system function and accelerated aging of the skin.</span></div>
</div>
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<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Frequent exposure to the sun increases production of melanin (the skin’s
pigment that gives color to the skin).Melanin helps protect the skin from
sun’s radiation. As melanin is dark in color, the skin becomes dark in color,
or tanned on sun exposure. Apart from tanning, the skin is also exposed to
harmful ultraviolet radiation that leaves a long-term damage on the skin.</span></div>
</div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Unlike in Western countries where most are fond of a tanned appearance people in Eastern countries (India,China,Korea,etc.) do not favor this look.They consider it unaesthetic and unattractive.People who deliberately tan
their skin by exposure to the sun engage in sun bathing.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
</div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><b>What is skin?</b><o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><b><br /></b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Human skin is the covering of the body’s surface that both provides
protection and receives sensory stimuli from the external environment. </span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">The skin
protects us from microbes and the elements, helps regulate body temperature,
and permits the sensations of touch, heat,and cold.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
</div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Skin has three layers: The epidermis, the outermost layer of skin,
provides a waterproof barrier and creates our skin tone. </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">The dermis, beneath
the epidermis, contains tough connective tissue, hair follicles, and sweat glands.
The deeper subcutaneous tissue (hypodermis) is made of fat and connective
tissue.</span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">The skin’s color is created by special cells called melanocytes, which produce
the pigment melanin. Melanocytes are located in the epidermis.</span></div>
</div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><b>Skin in Ayurveda</b><o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><b><br /></b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">The skin is regarded as mirror of an individual's inner health.</span>Ayurveda has a very different approach to skin care from modern medicine. </span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Ayurveda describes seven distinct layers of the skin, each with its own
structure and function. The layers are designed so that each layer provides
support to the layers above it. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">The skin as a whole is able to effectively
perform its overall functions when all the layers are healthy and balanced.Skin is the matruj avayava i.e.( derived from mother). It’s also known
as upadhatu (secondary tissue product) of rakta dhatu (blood).</span></div>
</div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><b>7 layers according to sushrut samhita are as follows</b><o:p></o:p></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><u><b>Avabhasini</b>:</u>This is the outermost layer. It reflects the complexion and
the quality of the Rasa Dhatu (nutrient fluid, the first of the seven tissues
of the body). It also acts as a mirror: it indicates whether the physiology as
a whole is balanced or imbalanced, and whether there is inner health or
disorder. The avabhasini layer also reflects the aura of the individual-if
there is inner bliss, it shows on this layer.</span></div>
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</div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><u><b>Lohita</b>:</u> This layer supports the outermost layer. It indicates the
quality of Rakta Dhatu (blood). If there is ama (impurities) in the blood, it
impacts the aura of the outer layer and accentuates sensitivity to the sun. The
color of this layer resembles molten iron.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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</div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><u><b>Shweta</b>:</u> This is a white layer, and it provides balance to skin color,
lightening the darker colors of the inner layers.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
</div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><u><b>Tamra</b>: </u>This layer nurtures the upper layers of the skin. It supports the
immune system. This is the layer that helps the skin perform its function of
being a barrier. Skin infections reflect an imbalance in this layer. It is
copper-colored.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
</div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><u><b>Vedini</b>:</u> This fifth layer sensually links the skin to the rest of the
body. It is the center for transformation of sensation-feeling of pain, for
example.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
</div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><u><b>Rohini</b></u>: This layer supports healing and regeneration. Imbalance in this
layer retards healing and the disappearance of scars over time. A balanced
diet, rich in nutritional value, supports the rohini layer.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
</div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><u><b>Mamsadhara</b></u>: This innermost layer is the platform for the skin's
stability and firmness. When this layer is in balance, the skin looks young and
supple. A skin product that has a vayasthapana effect nourishes this layer to
help retard the aging process.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
</div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
</div>
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<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Ayurvedic formulations for the skin, both internal and external, seek to
combine herbs to positively influence multiple layers of the skin. According to
ayurveda, a number of factors determine skin health and youthfulness, and these
include proper moisture balance (Kapha in balance), effective functioning of
the metabolic mechanisms that coordinate all the various chemical and hormonal
reactions of the skin (Pitta in balance), and efficient circulation of blood
and nutrients to the different layers of the skin (Vata in balance).</span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Waste products of the body tissues are also involved in skin health. For
instance sweat, the waste-product of fat production, helps to purify and refine
the skin.</span></div>
</div>
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<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
</div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><b>How Skin Tanning Occurs?</b><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">These are of two types Ultraviolet rays from the sun these are UVA and
UVB.</span>UVA penetrates the lower layer of epidermis whereas UVB penetrates the
upper layer of epidermis (Skin). Skin tanning occurs because of UVA radiations
from the Sun. UVA triggers the melanocytes that produce melanin which is a
brown pigment responsible for causing skin darkening. Melanin actually protects
the skin from burning. Tanning in dark skin is more than the lighter skin
because the former produces more melanin. As UVA rays can move very deep inside
the skin and these can cross the protective layer of epidermis to reach the
inner dermis layer of the skin.</span></div>
</div>
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<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
</div>
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<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Tanning can also cause longer-term health effects. Being exposed to UV
radiation can cause your skin to age more quickly and can increase your risk of
developing skin cancer. There is also scientific evidence that exposure to UV
radiation weakens the immune system. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
</div>
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<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
</div>
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<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><b>Modern methods to remove tanning </b><o:p></o:p></span></div>
</div>
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<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Skin exfoliation, </span>Microdermabrasion,Chemical peels,Laser etc are some of the modern treatments used to remove tanning</span></div>
</div>
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<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
</div>
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<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Externally make-up is also used to hide tanning. Sunscreens with chemicals are also prescribed to protect
and prevent from tanning. So instead of opting for those expensive
over-the-counter creams, cosmetic products and harsh treatments you can try
some natural remedies. There are many simple natural treatments that can
lighten a sun tan and restore healthy skin without any side-effects. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
</div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><b>Home remedies</b><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Skin should be given due care and attention.If the skin is not cared
properly and neglected it will suffer from premature aging, become dull and blemished.
One needs to keep in mind that there is nothing that can help remove a tan
overnight. It will take at least a week. After getting a sun tan, it is not
easy to bring your skin back to a normal state very fast but with patience and
care it can be done.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
</div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
</div>
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<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Want to have that perfectly glowing skin but not sure what to do about
it? Well, the answer lies in your own surroundings! We often fail to realize
the importance of the things that are easily available to us the biggest
example being ‘nature’ itself. Just look around and you will find that there
are numerous valuable herbs and plants that have endless therapeutic and
rejuvenating properties that could be a boon to your skin.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
</div>
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<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
</div>
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<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Given below are some of the best things used to reduce tanning naturally<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
</div>
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</div>
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><b>Turmeric (Haldi)-</b>Turmeric purifies blood, nourishes the skin and gives
it a healthy natural glow and radiance. It has anti-inflammatory, anti-aging
and anti-bacterial properties that help reduce inflammation of skin, acne,
pimples, blemishes, pigmentation, and prevent many skin ailments. It also helps
heal and prevent dry skin, and slows down the skin aging process.</span><br />
<div>
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><b>Sandalwood (Chandan)</b>-The key ingredient in many Ayurvedic skin-care
treatments, Sandalwood is effective in treating scrapes, rashes, blemishes,
acne, and other common skin problems. When used externally, the oil and paste
of Sandalwood has a calming, cooling effect on the body. It is bitter, sweet,
astringent and cooling in nature, and helps balance the body after overexposure
to the sun. Sandalwood powder can be made into a paste, lotion or soap for
cleansing and hydrating the skin. It has great skin lightening properties.</span></div>
<div>
<b><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></b></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><b>Aloe Vera (Ghritkumari)</b>-Aloe Vera has been well known for centuries for
its anti-inflammatory, anti-fungal, healing and cooling properties. It promotes
healing of any kind, be it a skin wound, acne, burn, scald, blisters, insect
bites, rashes, urticaria, allergic reactions or dry skin. The gel of this plant
helps to protect the outer layers of the skin, keeps the skin cool and reduces
inflammation. You can directly use the gelatinous juice by simply breaking a
leaf into two. Otherwise, you can substitute it with packaged Aloe Vera gel.
The plant grows easily in a pot, so having it at home can be very handy.</span></div>
<div>
<b><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></b></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><b>Coconut Water:</b> With all the innumerable qualities that coconut water
has, it’s also very helpful in removing skin tan. It works magic for your skin
inside out. Drink it every day or apply the white fleshy portion of a tender
coconut (mashed) and keep it for 15 minutes</span></div>
<div>
<b><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></b></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><b>Buttermilk</b>-It is another proven recipe to fade the sun tan. Wash you
face with Buttermilk regularly for a few days and you would notice the
difference. Being natural astringent it tones the skin and is ideal for oily to
combination skin. You can also apply buttermilk on your skin twice daily, for
about 20 minutes each time. This will cool the skin and help revitalize.</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><b><br /></b></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><b>Almonds</b> -almonds will cleanse, scrub and lighten your skin tone. They are another effective but slightly costly way
of ensuring lighter tan free skin. Soak 2-3 almonds overnight in cold milk,
peel the skin and make a paste out of these. Apply on skin, leave for some time
and wash it off. The results are miraculous.</span></div>
<div>
<b><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></b></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><b>Lemon</b>-lemon is great for curing sun tanned skin due to its natural
bleaching properties. You can simply apply some fresh lemon juice on the
affected skin area and allow it to dry before washing the area with water.</span></div>
<div>
<b><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></b></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><b>Yogurt</b>- is very effective in minimizing a sun tan as it cools the skin
as well as reduces redness and tightens the pores. Simply apply some fresh
yogurt on your skin daily before taking a bath. For best results, add tomato
juice and lime juice to the yogurt.</span></div>
<div>
<b><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></b></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><b>Potato</b>- Raw potato is an excellent remedy for sun tanned skin.
Surprisingly, it is rich in vitamin c and hence, works as natural bleach. It
also helps soothe sunburn. Peel the skin off 1-2 medium-sized potatoes, cut
them into chunks and put them in a blender to make a paste. Apply the paste
generously all over the affected skin area. Let it dry for about 30 minutes and
then wash it off with cold water. For best results, can add some lemon juice to
the potato paste before applying it. Potato is also effective against pimples
and blackheads make it an ideal ingredient for oily skin.</span></div>
<div>
<b><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></b></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><b>Gram Flour</b>-Gram flour is very useful in treating a sun tan as it helps
remove dead skin cells and leaves your skin bright and young. Mix the gram
flour in water and rub it all over the affected skin area. Wait 20 minutes
before washing if off with water. Do this twice a week for a few months. For
best results, use rose water instead of plain water. You can also mix some lime
juice and yogurt into the paste.</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><b><br /></b></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><b>Honey -</b>Honey can do wonders for your skin. Honey acts as an anti-aging agent, and
moisturizer. Additionally, it contains
anti-microbial properties and natural antioxidants which help to protect the
skin from sun rays and facilitates the skin’s ability to rejuvenate and refresh
exhausted looking skin, thus leaving it soft and silky. Honey also has the ability to absorb and
retain moisture and this helps in keeping the skin well hydrated, fresh and
supple.</span></div>
<div>
<b><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></b></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><b>Cucumber</b>-Cucumber juice also helps reduce a sun tan. Cucumbers have a
cooling effect that soothes the skin and helps eliminate a suntan. The vitamin
C in cucumbers also will help keep the skin well moisturized. Mix two
tablespoons of fresh cucumber juice and one tablespoon of lime juice. Add a
pinch of turmeric to it. Mix it well and apply it on the affected skin. Leave
it for 30 minutes and then wash it off with water. You can also rub freshly cut
slices of cucumber on your skin.</span></div>
<div>
<b><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></b></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><b>Milk-</b>Milk or milk cream can also be used for treating sun tanned skin.
Put a small amount of milk in a bowl and add a pinch of turmeric and some lemon
juice. Apply this solution on the affected areas and allow it to dry
completely. Then wash it off with water. This will give you an instant relief
from a sun tan. You can also soak a pinch of saffron in fresh milk cream
overnight. In the morning, stir it well and apply it on the affected skin
areas. This will lighten your complexion and make your skin glow.</span></div>
<div>
<b><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></b></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><b>Oatmeal Powder</b>-Oatmeal has skin-soothing properties and also works as a
wonderful exfoliate to cleanse the pores. Thus, oatmeal powder can be used in a
couple of ways to reduce a sun tan.</span></div>
<div>
<b><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></b></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><b>Tomato:</b> Tomato should be rubbed raw on the skin; it is very effective in
shrinking open pores and toning the skin.</span></div>
<div>
<b><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></b></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><b>Banana</b>: The fruit has a softening effect on the skin and when mashed and
mixed with egg, the application helps soften the skin lending it a porcelain
look.</span></div>
<div>
<b><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></b></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><b>Papaya</b>: The benefits of this fruit on skin have perhaps been talked
about since the time of our ancestors. Papaya is rich in antioxidants and
contains a special enzyme called papain that can kill dead cells and cure skin impurities.
The fruit papaya can be effective for soothing, toning and moisturizing your
skin, which will leave your skin glowing naturally. Its natural properties will
remove skin blemishes, pimples, dark patches and do much more! Applying the
flesh of papaya on your skin can do wonders to your skin.</span><br />
<div>
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"> </span><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 19px;"> </span></span><br />
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<b><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"> Useful combinations to diminish skin tanning</span></b></div>
<ul style="text-align: left;">
<li><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">For those who are lazy and those who are super busy, these face packs
are the easiest and the quickest ones you will ever come across, and, they work
wonders. </span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">A pinch of turmeric powder (haldi),
chilled yoghurt (dahi/curd) and 1 teaspoon of lime juice (nimboo) – mix them
and apply on the tanned area. Leave for 20 minutes before washing it off. 3
weeks of regular apply and your normal skin color will return.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Mix a pinch of haldi with besan and pour enough water to make a paste.
Rub the mixture all over your skin and wash it off.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Mix equal proportion of lime
juice and honey and apply directly on your face. Leave for 20 minutes before you
wash it off with a mild soap.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Buttermilk soothes and softens
the skin. Make a pack by mixing a tablespoon of oats with buttermilk and apply
it on your face or body to get rid of tanning. Oats also help in exfoliating
the skin so this mixture is extremely beneficial.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Apply a mixture of rose water, cucumber juice and a dash of lemon juice
once a day. Lemon juice helps reduce the tan while rose water and cucumber work
as cooling agents.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">One can also prepare a paste adding a pinch of turmeric, lemon juice and
raw milk. Apply the mixture properly and wait till it dries. Wash it off with
cold water.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"> In olden days, granny used to
rely on a mixture of gram flour, lime juice and curd to get a glowing skin. But
one can use the mixture regularly to get rid of tanning</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"> To keep your knees, elbows and
other patchy areas smooth and clean, apply fresh lemon juice. Keep it on for at
least 15 minutes and wash it off.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Mash Papaya with or without milk and apply it on your face. Leave it for
a maximum of 5 minutes and then wash with cold water. It helps in reducing
blemishes, black spots, evens out your skin tone and brings a glow on your
face.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Fresh coconut water makes the skin soft and fair. Using it twice in a
day on hands and face can prove beneficial.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Prepare a paste adding equal quantity of milk powder, lemon juice,
almond oil and honey. Apply it on the affected portions for at least 20
minutes. It will help reduce tan. One can also store it for a week. If you have
time, use it twice a day for better results.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Sugar is considered as the best cleansing agent. Apply the mixture of
sugar and lemon juice on your face and wash it after 20 minutes. Do this two or
three times a week for fast results.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Mix rice flour and curd. Massage this on the affected tanned area. It is
generally applied on the face to reduce the facial skin tanning.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Mix cucumber paste in lemon juice and fuller's earth. Keep this anti tan
pack for 15 min and then wash with cold water.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Mix equal amounts of sandalwood powder and pure turmeric powder. Add
some rose water to make a thick paste. Apply the paste on the affected areas
and leave it on for 30 minutes or until it dries. Wash it off using cold water.
Do this twice a week.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Soak almonds overnight and grind
them into a fine paste the next morning. Add equal quantities of milk cream to
the paste and apply on the affected area to make the skin fair.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Mash the papaya pulp and massage the sun tanned area. Papaya is excellent
for the skin and also helps in anti-aging.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">You can also make a paste with oatmeal powder, ground almonds, ground
dried orange peel powder and milk. Apply the paste on the affected areas and
leave it on for 30 minutes. Then wash it off with cold water.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Mix two teaspoons of oatmeal with half a cup of ripe papaya and add a
drop of honey. Apply the mask and wash off after twenty minutes.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Mix five tablespoons of coconut oil with two teaspoons of almond oil.
Add four teaspoons of sandalwood powder, and apply the mixture to the
overexposed areas of your skin. You will notice a considerable improvement in
your tan.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Pure sandalwood oil can be used as a moisturizer on the face and body
and is also great for massaging.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">For itchy skin, apply the mixture of one teaspoon of sandalwood with one
teaspoon of turmeric and one teaspoon of lime juice. Leave on for 20 to 30
minutes and rinse with cool water.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">For dark armpits, mix besan (gram flour), curd, lemon juice and little
haldi (turmeric) into a paste. Apply it at least three times a week. Wash it
off after half an hour.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Crush the sesame seeds coarsely and powder the dried mint leaves. Mix
them with a little honey and apply on the skin. Removes tan and produces an
even color tone. Honey moisturizes and softens the skin.</span></li>
</ul>
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"> </span><b>Follow these rules….</b></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
</div>
<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">According to ayurveda it will be beneficial if you use ubtan regularly on
your skin before bath instead of chemical soaps.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Personal hygiene should be practiced by taking bath regularly.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">More and more women are learning about the potential problems associated
with preservatives and other suspect chemicals in cosmetics. That's why the
market in organic and natural beauty products is booming. Most conventional
make-up you buy contains minerals and substances that are unhealthy for human
skin. These substances include
petro-chemicals, synthetic dyes, parabens and artificial fragrances. On the other hand, organic or natural makeup
is made from minerals and organic plant extracts. The minerals in natural cosmetics provide the
wearer with sun filters and the makeup itself does not clog pores or accelerate
already existing skin conditions.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Natural health and beauty products use natural preservatives, such as
grapefruit seed extract, that won't affect your body. By using natural health
and beauty products, you can eliminate many of the harmful chemicals and
replace them with natural ingredients that not only protect you from harm, but
can even be beneficial to your body. If possible try to use natural cosmetics
for your skin.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Avoid direct sun-exposure as much as possible, particularly during noon
till about 3 pm. Even if sun exposure is unavoidable then do not forget to wear a
broad-brimmed hat, use umbrella, wear sunglasses, wear tightly-woven clothes
etc.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Applying Aloe Vera gel on the skin prior to application of make-up can
prevent the skin from drying.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Application of sunscreen (natural) every day will significantly cut back
on accumulated sun damage.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">To nourish your skin internally, drink three to four liters of water
daily, eat fruits rich in vitamins and minerals like citrus fruits, melons, and
moisturize (natural) heavily at night.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">You can give the skin a rub by using loofah, after applying
oils, soap or ubtans. This helps to smooth-en rough skin and also improves blood
circulation to the skin surface.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">For swimmers 6 am to 8 am or 6 pm to 10 pm is the best time to avoid
damage caused by sun. Once you are out of the pool, wash off thoroughly with a
mild soap/body wash. Wash your hair irrespective of you wearing a swim cap.
Wear swimming goggles to protect your eyes.</span></li>
</ul>
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"> </span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"> Stay healthy !</span><br />
<ul>
</ul>
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Vaishali G Kamathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13368641312089476984noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4746605527351922533.post-15731187535775303542013-10-18T17:27:00.000+05:302017-08-31T19:18:26.494+05:30Panchamrit.......nectar of the gods.<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<o:p><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> </span></o:p></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj056pZFoVWQ4h16dZQ7T1fzDYO9oBMTiXu234b7zkwUHt2ZN4qwd5ILkTSiGgoehOIpiD7LQJDBquF99ldmrrl4QxHxjduFQgLX4mE-Grgw-KxqWnO9Pn1Kuk0xh6AxW7HqlMp1O-m46gG/s1600/panchamrut.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="470" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj056pZFoVWQ4h16dZQ7T1fzDYO9oBMTiXu234b7zkwUHt2ZN4qwd5ILkTSiGgoehOIpiD7LQJDBquF99ldmrrl4QxHxjduFQgLX4mE-Grgw-KxqWnO9Pn1Kuk0xh6AxW7HqlMp1O-m46gG/s640/panchamrut.jpg" width="640" /></a></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">
</span>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Panchamrita is a sacred mixture of five ingredients i.e. Milk,
Curd, Honey, Sugar and Ghee in equal amounts. The word “Panchamrita” is a combination
of two words, "Pancha" means five and "Amrita" means ambrosia, immortal, and nectar
of gods or beverage of gods.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Panchamrita is also called 'Charnamrit' in some parts of
India.Often Basil (Tulsi) leaves and dry fruits are also added in Panchamrita. However,
there may be certain regional variations in ingredients. Most south Indians add
ripe banana instead of sugar. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><b>Origin of Panchamrit</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">The most popular mention of the dish can be traced back
to Mahabharata (largest epic ever written in the history of Mankind!). In
Mahabharata it is stated that the Panchamrit was perhaps one of the valuable
ingredients that emerged during Samudra manthan or Ksheera sagar manthan(churning
of the ocean of milk).The demons and gods who were part of the process had a
very long fight in establishing their control over this amrit, because they
knew that whoever had it will become immortal forever.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">According to mythology, the five elements of this sweet
concoction have symbolic meaning. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
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</div>
<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Milk represents purity and piousness.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Curd represents prosperity and progeny.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Honey depicts sweet speech and unity. (Because it is
prepared jointly by bees)</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Sugar represents sweetness and bliss.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Ghee is meant for knowledge and victory.</span></li>
</ul>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><o:p></o:p></span><br /></span>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><b>Religious importance…</b><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">All religious Hindu Pooja and functions are incomplete
without the Panchamrit (Panchamrit Prasad).</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">It is used as an offering during poojas. (bhog,prasad)<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">It is used as a libation during Abhisheka(bathing the
idols).<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
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<o:p><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><b>Uses.. </b></span></o:p></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Uses of freshly prepared Panchamrut if consumed daily…</span></span></div>
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<br />
<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Boosts physical
strength</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Improves potency (increases
shukra in the body)</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Improves immunity</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Vitalizes the
brain</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Enhances intelligence,
memory, grasping power, creative abilities.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Improves complexion as it’s considered as skin cleanser.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">It should be consumed every day, preferably in the
morning, on an empty stomach.</span></li>
</ul>
</div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><b>Panchamrit in pregnancy.</b><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Panchamrit acts as
an energy booster for both mom and baby and is a good brain tonic,2-4 tsps of panchamrit should be taken early morning during pregnancy…<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><b>Method of Preparation<o:p></o:p></b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Panchamrit is exotic and a tasty sweet.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">As said before there are many Panchamrit recipe
variations but here are two of the common recipes which are commonly adopted
for dish preparation. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><b> Traditional Panchamrita recipe </b></span><br />
<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">This is a popular recipe where the dish is completed by
combining ingredients in equal amounts…</span></li>
</ul>
</div>
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<br />
<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Milk - 1 tbsp</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Curd -1 tbsp</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Honey -1 tbsp</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Sugar - 1 tbsp</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Ghee - 1 tbsp</span></li>
</ul>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
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<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">There is one more reference which states that all the 5 ingredients should be taken in decreasing ratio in the following order i.e </span><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></li>
</ul>
<br />
<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Milk - 5 tbsp</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Curd -4 tbsp</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Sugar-3 tbsp</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Ghee -2 tbsp</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Honey-1 tbsp</span></li>
</ul>
<br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">Mix all the above mentioned ingredients and stir well. Your sweet concoction of panchamrita is ready to be sipped.If u want the panchamrita in large quantities you may increase the measure of each ingredient.</span></span><br />
<div>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Second most commonly used recipe is the mixture of banana in the traditional recipe.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><b>Contemporary Panchamrita Beverage</b><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Variation in
panchamrit recipe can be achieved with ingredients like saffron,coconut,mint,tulasi(basil)etc.in the basic panchamrit recipe as per wish.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Ayurveda recommends the traditional panchamrit recipe for optimum health benefits.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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</div>
Vaishali G Kamathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13368641312089476984noreply@blogger.com43tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4746605527351922533.post-86281604152750907912013-10-17T00:03:00.000+05:302013-10-17T11:06:06.022+05:30Heal mouth ulcers naturally.......<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgyQQSDkfoUDP5XzwV7frLegR5jj0KVXLX-Q2wWlVUQydRu0JCjaoEqpY-BCas-dV1tcnhQw0Iq5GSttx1bqKUCgRw6nTp9X9f3R3YcOmDwKiPxNu8AxOEsHz3F_KP0OCNkG0od0GzAi6A/s1600/images.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="298" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgyQQSDkfoUDP5XzwV7frLegR5jj0KVXLX-Q2wWlVUQydRu0JCjaoEqpY-BCas-dV1tcnhQw0Iq5GSttx1bqKUCgRw6nTp9X9f3R3YcOmDwKiPxNu8AxOEsHz3F_KP0OCNkG0od0GzAi6A/s400/images.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Mouth ulcer
is a very common condition, and most people will have at least once in their
lifetime.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: large;">A mouth ulcer
(also termed an oral ulcer or a mucosal ulcer) is an ulcer that occurs on the
mucous membrane of the oral cavity. Mouth ulcers are open sores in the mouth
that appear as white or yellow sores surrounded by a bright red area. Usually
painful, they appear on non-keratinized mouth tissue including the inner
surface of the cheeks, lips,tongue,soft palate,and the base of the gums.
Mouth ulcers are very common, occurring in association with many diseases and
by many different mechanisms, but usually there is no serious underlying cause .They
usually begin with a tingling or burning sensation followed by a red spot or
bump that ulcerate. These can be small, large or in clusters.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: large;">Irritation of the sores by salty, spicy or
sour foods, Loss of appetite, pain and discomfort, particularly when eating,
drinking,talking or brushing your teeth, burning sensation makes life miserable for the
sufferers who can neither eat nor speak.Mouth ulcers
cannot be passed from person to person. For example, you cannot get an ulcer
from kissing someone, or from sharing a glass, or cutlery.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: large;">There may be
excessive salivation and bad breath, and the inflammation may extend to the
tonsils and throat. A mild fever may be present in this condition. Usually they
heal within 7 to 10 days. The recurrent, bothersome form of mouth ulcers is
known as aphthous stomatitis or simply
aphthous ulcer.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: large;">In Ayurveda,
the inflamed conditions of the mouth are described under Mukhapaka. Due to
fallacious diet and lifestyle, pitta is vitiated which in turn results in mouth sore.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
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<b><span style="font-size: x-large;">Causative factors...</span></b></div>
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</div>
<ul>
<li><span style="font-size: large;">Oral trauma -
Injury from accidental biting or chewing sharp, hard, foods.</span><span style="font-size: large;"> </span><span style="font-size: large;">Brushing your teeth over-vigorously,such
brushing causes abrasions on the gums that can turn ulcerous. Damage to your
mouth can also occur from a sharp tooth.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;">Hormonal
changes - ulcers often appear at puberty or during menstruation, many women
notice that they are more likely to have an ulcer during their periods. This is
due to the changes in hormone levels in your body during your menstrual cycle.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;">Constipation,
improper digestion, bowel disturbance are also some of the factors responsible.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;">Burns which
are produced while eating hot food.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;">Poor oral
hygiene also is one of the important reasons behind mouth ulcer.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;">Suffering from stress, anxiety or depression.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;">Poorly fitting
dentures mostly noticed in elderly people.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;">Stopping smoking
-When you first stop smoking, you may find that you have more mouth ulcers than
usual. This is a normal reaction and is part of your body's way of dealing with
the chemical change in your body.</span><span style="font-size: large;">After quitting
smoking, any increase in mouth ulcers will be temporary, and you should not let
it deter you from stopping smoking. The long-term health benefits of stopping
smoking are far greater than the short-term discomfort of mouth ulcers.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;">Family history
-Around 40% of people who have recurrent mouth ulcers have a family history of
the condition. If both the parents have recurrent mouth ulcers, there is a 90%
chance that you will have them too.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;">You may be irritated by certain chemicals,
spices, tobacco or even alcohol.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;">The culprit may be the herpes simplex virus,
which also causes cold sores. The first attack can be severe, with sore throat
and ulcers inside the mouth. Subsequent attacks are less severe, with fewer and
smaller ulcers.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;">Certain foods
- some people may find that eating certain foods can cause mouth ulcers. Foods that have been identified as increasing the risk of ulcers
include chocolate, coffee, peanuts, almonds, strawberries, cheese, tomatoes and
refined flour etc.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;">Occasionally,
mouth ulcers can also be caused by a reaction to a medicine that you are
taking. Some of the medicines which can cause mouth ulcers are listed below. Non-steroidal
anti-inflammatory drugs (pain killers), certain Antibiotics, Beta-blockers( a medicine used to treat
a variety of conditions which affect the heart and blood flow, such as angina,
heart failure, high blood pressure, and abnormal heart rhythms) etc. Speak to
your doctor if you find that you are experiencing mouth ulcers as a result of
your medication. They may be able to prescribe an alternative medicine for you.
However, you should never stop taking medication unless your doctor advises you
to do so</span><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></li>
</ul>
<br />
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</div>
<ul>
<li><b style="font-size: x-large;">Underlying
condition</b></li>
</ul>
<br />
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</div>
<ul>
<li><span style="font-size: large;">Vitamin B12
deficiency - Vitamin B12 helps to make red blood cells and keeps your body's
nervous system healthy. If you do not have enough vitamin B12, it can cause
tiredness, shortness of breath and mouth ulcers.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;">Iron
deficiency - if you do not get enough iron in your diet, your red blood cells
will not be able to carry as much oxygen. This can make you tired, lethargic and dizzy. Although not as common as other symptoms, an iron deficiency can
also cause mouth ulcers.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;">Celiac disease-this is a condition where the small intestine becomes inflamed, and it is
caused by intolerance to a protein called gluten, which is found in wheat, barley etc.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;">Crohn's
disease - this is a condition which causes inflammation of the gut. This
inflammation can cause ulcers in both your stomach and your mouth.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;">Reiter's
syndrome - this is a reaction to another infection within your body. It can
cause inflammation, which sometimes spreads to your mouth.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;">Immunodeficiency-any condition which attacks, or suppresses, your body's immune system (which
protects the body against infection and illness) can cause you to get mouth
ulcers. HIV is an example of an immunosuppressant illness.</span></li>
</ul>
<br />
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<b style="font-size: x-large;">General Instructions....</b></div>
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<b style="font-size: x-large;"><br /></b></div>
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">Do not do</span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: large;">Avoid spicy
food,junk food.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Do not spend sleepless night.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: large;">Do not take
dry and hard food which is difficult to digest.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: large;">Do not keep
stomach empty for long hours.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: large;">Do not take aerated drinks (bottled beverages) regularly.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: large;">Discontinue the habits of betel chewing, smoking, eating chewing gum etc.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: large;">Avoid constant stress, reduce the tension and
hurry in work.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: large;">Do not take
alcohol, as it may worsen the condition.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: large;">Avoid pain
killers, unless it is very essential.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Avoid sour
things, including curd and pickles etc.</span></div>
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<o:p><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></o:p><b><span style="font-size: large;">Do</span></b></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Take sufficient quantity of water.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Have the habit of evacuating the bowel
regularly.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: large;">Take time to exercise regularly.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: large;">Eat more whole
grains, green and leafy vegetables.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: large;">Effectively
manage stress with meditation, proper sleep etc.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Eating boiled
Ragi everyday prevents Mouth ulcer as it keeps the stomach cool.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Brush the
teeth properly and maintain good oral hygiene.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: large;">Give priority
for balanced diet and food rich in fiber content.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: large;">Food you
should consume are papaya, yam (sooran) ,guava etc.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: large;">Eating aniseeds (sauf) after meals prevents mouth ulcer.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: large;">Apple should
be eaten as it has bactericidal properties and banana as it prevents gastric
ulcers and acts as protectant for internal mucosa.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Drinking tender coconut water is good.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: large;">Consume fresh yogurt
as it contains bacteria which can heal and prevent ulcers.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: large;">Make sure that
your teeth are in good order by regularly visiting your dentist. If you attend
regular check-up,this will help to ensure that no sharp edges of
your teeth, or fillings, can cause damage to the inside of your mouth.</span></div>
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<o:p><span style="font-size: large;"> <table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMm6ltgwU-mO7mnh2tyARhHquxZjZsYOYSszbeODJ0iuZrPH2QEahAe4EirdSP2_sZ4v5bgOqwDyipV8jdoLdANWngB822JVvljOja4dCfqT7s6N14aqLM2NqmARxANkzWdqHBveREX8ok/s1600/download+%25281%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMm6ltgwU-mO7mnh2tyARhHquxZjZsYOYSszbeODJ0iuZrPH2QEahAe4EirdSP2_sZ4v5bgOqwDyipV8jdoLdANWngB822JVvljOja4dCfqT7s6N14aqLM2NqmARxANkzWdqHBveREX8ok/s400/download+%25281%2529.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ulcers on Tongue</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</span></o:p></div>
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<b><span style="font-size: x-large;">Home remedies</span></b></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Following are some of the most effective home remedies for optimum results....</span></div>
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<ul>
<li><span style="font-size: large;">Usually constipation is associated with oral
ulcers.If you notice such a situation, you should take mild laxative, which
will give some relief. Triphala choorna is the proper laxative for this
purpose. You can take a teaspoonful of the same at bedtime with warm water.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;">Fine powder of
the Chebulic myrobalan (Haritaki) macerated with honey is an excellent
application that is very effective.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;">Licorice (mulathi) is proved to be beneficial
in the treatment of oral ulcers. Chew on a piece of it. It refreshes the mouth
and cleanses the teeth, arresting tooth decay. It heals the sores in the mouth.
When it is boiled in water, it releases a sweet taste, so you can drink a warm
infusion or decoction similar to tea.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;">Boil crushed
cardamom in a glass of water, gargle when water has moderate temperature, also
cures bad-breath.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;">Apply a pinch of
turmeric powder over the blisters.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;">Mix honey 2 ml + 500 mg of purified borax
(Tankana Bhasma) and apply to the lesion of mouth ulcer. It cures the complaint
within 1-2 days.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;">Chewing of
Tender buds of Guava is highly beneficial in case of mouth ulcer.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;">1 Tsp of honey and 1/4th of salt(rock salt) are
dissolved in ½ cups of water and gargled. This is helpful to relieve the
complaint chronic mouth ulcer.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;">Eat raw
tomatoes or gargle with the juice of tomatoes for at least three to four times
a day. This is one of the best home remedies for mouth ulcers.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;">Chew five to
six of holy basil (tulasi) leaves, do this for at least 3-4 times
whenever you get mouth ulcers.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;">Gargle with
coconut milk for at least thrice a day and see the difference. This is one of
the proven home remedies for mouth ulcers.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;">Massage the
gums with a mixture of coconut oil and honey. This is one of the proven home
remedies for mouth ulcers.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;">Apply indian gooseberry (amla)powder on the ulcer. Do this for at
least twice a day and see how it cures the ulcers. This is one of the best home
remedies for mouth ulcers.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;">Durva (Dub, a grass used to worship Lord
Ganesha)should be boiled in water, filtered and this decoction should beused as a mouth wash
cures mouth ulcers.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;">Warm water mixed with Salt and Lemon juice
used as a mouth wash helps to get relief from Mouth ulcer.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;">Chewing Henna (Mehandi) leaves, or Henna
leaves boiled in water and filtered, and use of this decoction as a mouth wash,
helps in curing Mouth ulcer.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;">Boil Turmeric powder in water and this warm
decoction if used as a mouth wash helps in curing Mouth ulcer.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;">Pomegranate (Anar) skin boiled in water,
filtered and this decoction used for mouthwash gives a great relief from
Mouth ulcer.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;">Boil Coriander seeds (Dhania) in water and
filter,wash mouth with this decoction.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;">Ayurveda recommends
honey gargle for mouth sores. Even as general practice as part of Dinacharya honey gargle is recommended for better voice, improved speech and to prevent
all type oral inflammations and infections. Honey is extremely effective in
reducing the inflammation, improving the tissue healing.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;">Mix small
amount of sodium bicarbonate (baking soda ) with water and use this solution as mouth rinse.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;">Mix 7 parts of
sugar candy (mishri) with 1 part of camphor and some ghee. Apply on the
blister.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;">For relief
from the ulcer aloe vera gel can be applied three times a day or aloe vera
juice can be used as mouthwash twice a day to reduce pain and inflammation.</span></li>
</ul>
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">Treating mouth ulcer according to dosha....</span></b></div>
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<b><br /></b></div>
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">Vata Type</span></b></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">If Vata Dosha
is upset, then the lips and mouth becomes fissured and ulcers occur in the oral
cavity (by the time one ulcer heals another is ready to harass you); one also is
unable to tolerate cold water. In such a situation, one can apply a paste in
which Pippali (Piper longum), cardamom and rock salt are mixed together with ghee, milk cream or milk. Sometimes one can get immediate relief by gargling with warm sesame
oil. </span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">Pitta Type</span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: large;">If it is the Pitta Dosha that is upset, then a
burning sensation in the mouth and a bitter taste in the mouth early in the
morning are the main symptoms. Gargling with Tiphala decoction proves
effective. Chewing the leaves of Jasmine (Jasminum grandiflorum) is helpful.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">Kapha Type </span></b></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">On the other hand, if in the morning the mouth
gets filled with thick saliva, or if the ulcers are covered by mucous
secretions, it is indicative of a Kapha Dosha abnormality. Gargling with a
mixture of honey and Triphala decoction is useful. If this problem persists, a
light diet is recommended. Sour, salty foods (like pickles, papadam etc.) and
pungent items should be avoided, also food items like tea, jaggery
or beans must be avoided too. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>Note -</b><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"> </span>Mouth ulcers
left untreated generally go away in a week or so;with these home remedies, you
can expect faster relief. However, if you notice an ulcer in the mouth that is
persistently present although it does not cause you any pain, do not neglect it
or try to treat it with home remedies beyond a few days. Make it a point to see your health consultant soon...</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRO8qEvEeAorT_Za-PE7zPlc4ttEiFYJKFuuRrtnhECfpIDIckOdkE2bpvNeYks47XKzW1AtecN2eBkmDhMALxo4_9bmjEF2LbZanicf4Jw0N1VQF9lm4oWTtqJm-H_6_c-mPiMHNr_6Ci/s1600/images+%25283%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="font-size: x-large; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="299" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRO8qEvEeAorT_Za-PE7zPlc4ttEiFYJKFuuRrtnhECfpIDIckOdkE2bpvNeYks47XKzW1AtecN2eBkmDhMALxo4_9bmjEF2LbZanicf4Jw0N1VQF9lm4oWTtqJm-H_6_c-mPiMHNr_6Ci/s400/images+%25283%2529.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Regular Dental Check-ups</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<o:p><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
</div>
Vaishali G Kamathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13368641312089476984noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4746605527351922533.post-90444664453139212482013-10-13T01:07:00.000+05:302017-09-30T19:00:36.385+05:30Greetings on Dussehra with green gold.....<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"> </span><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizqkbV_p5eFTrGastSxSo3gByDpZJXjOkCJ8_qw_0Bk-wf29oIp9grU3798cPGXFlm2fHmu_f2BxGZajCiLPVu4I8Q0TR6xwqhGvtjpZnHoVk2DpBaRyK_9MbpXHheQ54Xm79oh1EUA7Io/s1600/happy-dasara.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="font-family: "times new roman", serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="489" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizqkbV_p5eFTrGastSxSo3gByDpZJXjOkCJ8_qw_0Bk-wf29oIp9grU3798cPGXFlm2fHmu_f2BxGZajCiLPVu4I8Q0TR6xwqhGvtjpZnHoVk2DpBaRyK_9MbpXHheQ54Xm79oh1EUA7Io/s640/happy-dasara.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"> </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;">Dussehra word is
derived from the Sanskrit words ‘Dasha’ and ‘hara’ meaning "remover of bad
fate"<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;">It is also believed
that Ravan had 10 faces. They are probably symbolic of the 10 evil facets of
his character. The word Dussehra comes from the word 'Dus' meaning 'Ten' and
'Hara', meaning 'annihilated'. So Dussehra is the day in which the 10 facets of
Evil were destroyed. Dussehra also marks the end of the nine days of Navratri,
and is celebrated on the tenth day. According to popular belief, Dussehra
celebrates the victory of Goddess Durga over the wicked demon Mahishasura. Navratri
is an amalgamation of various themes, with the common theme of the victory of
good over evil.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;">It is among the most
important festivals celebrated in India.The festival of Dussehra(also known as
Dasara, Dashain or sometimes Vijayadashami) <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;">On this auspicious day there is an endearing tradition of exchanging heart-shaped Apta (Bauhinia racemosa) leaves
as gold among the near and dear ones.This token offering is actually about expressing
happiness and respect. The vijay mahurat on Dussehra is considered to be
extremely auspicious and one of wish fulfilment. Offering the leaf is symbolic
of wishing prosperity and happiness.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;">Many people still
follow the tradition with faith but there are many who find it funny, since the
prices of gold have hit the roof, there are jokes being cracked about it. But
the practice of offering the apta leaves as sona on Dussehra continues to
thrive. It may be mere symbolism, but there is a deep significance behind it.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;">There are couples of
stories connected with the above custom.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><b>Legend of Kautsa’s
Guru Dakshina….</b><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;">A story in the
puranas says that there was once a young man named Kautsa, in Ayodhya who was
getting trained under Guru Varatantu. After his education was complete, he
wanted to give Guru Dakshina. The guru declined the offer but after repeated
insistence from Kautsa, said he wanted 14 crore (140 million) gold coins.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;">Kautsa approached Ram
the ruler of Ayodhya and asked for the gold coins.Ram promised to help
Kautsa and asked him to wait near the Apta tree in his village. Within three
days, with the help of Kuber, Lord Ram showered gold coins through the leaves
of Apta tree.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; mso-outline-level: 1; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;">Kautsa collected the
required number and distributed the rest among the poor. This happened on
Dussehra and to commemorate this event, people collect the leaves of Apta tree
and present it to elders as gold.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><b>Legend of King Raghu…</b><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;">One more story
describes as, Sri Ram’s ancestor relative’s name was king Raghu. He was very
generous. After a great ‘Yagna’ (Prayer) the king had distributed all his
wealth among the poor.Raghu had nothing left to give a poor boy, who came to
his door step asking for alms. Raghu attacked Kuber, the God of Wealth. As gold
rained on earth, some of it fell on the Apta tree. Since then people exchange
leaves of the Apta tree on Dussehra day.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;">This has a historical
significance too. After a military expedition, the brave Marathas would bring
home the plundered booty from the enemy's territory. These victorious warriors
were welcomed by their wives or sisters with Aarati (a prayer sung with the
waving of a lamp). In return the warriors would give some gold ornaments from
their plunder. The warriors then placed their loot before the deities in the
temple of the house and offered obeisance to God and elders seeking their
blessings. Nowadays, this is commemorated by distributing leaves of the Apta
tree, symbolizing gold.Traditionally Apta and Shami are two important trees worshipped
on this celebration.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"> </span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIBFYh_y3Sv193W9pd9MJTucJpt3Zx3sWzFIFLMCn2LCvVN5XYNQSKhRfpVYEqJj8jkB1Wx8vWyE-5TWXgJBgwVgw1J3awc0DkhXb7ux0o77JrTALvd2HbH9N9uuX3pHp4mWxRQR89uvBQ/s1600/apta-rev.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIBFYh_y3Sv193W9pd9MJTucJpt3Zx3sWzFIFLMCn2LCvVN5XYNQSKhRfpVYEqJj8jkB1Wx8vWyE-5TWXgJBgwVgw1J3awc0DkhXb7ux0o77JrTALvd2HbH9N9uuX3pHp4mWxRQR89uvBQ/s640/apta-rev.gif" width="289" /></a></div>
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<br /></div>
<o:p></o:p><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><b>Apta (Bauhinia racemosa)</b><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;">The Apta tree is
worshipped with the following mantra:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;">Ashmantak Mahavruksha
Mahadoshnivaran l<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; mso-outline-level: 1; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;">Istana darshanm dehi
kuru shtruvinashnam ll<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;">Translation: O
great Apta (also known as Ashmantak) tree, you are the one who overcomes great
defects. Unite me with my friends and destroy my foes.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;">It is commonly known
as the Bidi Leaf Tree also known as Sonpatta being considered to be as valuable
as gold for its medicinal value.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;">Apta is one of several varieties of Bauhinia
species found commonly in dry deciduous forests and up to an altitude of 1500
metres in the Western Himalayas. There are two other fast growing native
species of Bauhinia, which are commonly mistaken for Sonpatta due to same
bi-lobed leaves, known as Purple Orchid Tree (B Purpurea/Kanchan) and Orchid
Tree (B Variegata/ Rakta-Kanchan). Why do leaves of other Indian trees not have
such unique "golden" status? Why only the Sonpatta tree? Many
consider that the medicinal importance of the tree may be the reason for its
being equated to Gold. </span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;">By giving Sona Patti to our dear ones, we
wish them so that they remain free from all the diseases and become rich, as health
is wealth.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;">Almost
each & every part of this tree has some medicinal values. The stem bark of
the tree is an astringent and is used in the treatment of headache,
fever, skin diseases, blood diseases, dysentery & diarrhea. A
decoction of the bark is recommended as a useful wash for ulcers. The tree is
demonstrated to have anti-oxidant & hepatoprotective effects. An
extract of the leaves has been proved to show analgesic, anti-pyretic,
anti-inflammatory, anti-spasmodic, anthelmintic and anti-microbial
activity too. The tree has anti-tumor qualities and is also used
in to treat early stage of malignancy. The flowers are laxative &
seeds are anti-bacterial.<br />
<br />
The leaves are used for making bidis (Bidi Leaf Tree). The tree yields a
useful gum & fibres. The bark is used for tanning and dyeing.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"> <table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEieCiBuzHwb7qo0zmnHV_h73kzqfLf1BCuMjxHQn-8kGzStFrUZtYHxrvx1qrR8XRVCgUDkl6d5G8o5q2e4ZDZFt0QxnNSPCOgd88GgzzhHUsXMj4h9CNYaVba4r5fItTXRndr1gHjmgE0R/s1600/5021073866_858c411b38_z.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEieCiBuzHwb7qo0zmnHV_h73kzqfLf1BCuMjxHQn-8kGzStFrUZtYHxrvx1qrR8XRVCgUDkl6d5G8o5q2e4ZDZFt0QxnNSPCOgd88GgzzhHUsXMj4h9CNYaVba4r5fItTXRndr1gHjmgE0R/s400/5021073866_858c411b38_z.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 21px;"> Shami ( Prosopis spicigera)<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br />
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><b>Shami (Prosopis spicigera)<o:p></o:p></b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;">Shami Shamayate papam
shami lokhitkantaka l<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;">Dharinyarjunbananam
Ramasya priyavadini ll <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;">Karishmanyatraya
yathakal such mya l<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;">Tatra nirvighanktri
twam bhav Sree Rampujite ll<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;">Shami
Puja is an important ritual performed on
the day of Vijayadashami. It is performed by worshipping the Shami Tree.</span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;">Shami
Tree destroys our paapaa, it destroys our enemies. It was holding the Dhanas of
Arjuna for one full year and it is Sri Ramachandra’s favourite tree.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><b>Legend
of Pandavas...</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;">Associated
with Dussehra is the legend of Shami tree found in our epic Mahabharata. The
Pandavas who were on their 14 years of exile in the forests, were to spend
another year in disguise. They possessed many divine and distinctive weapons
due to their skill as well as penance. Since the last year of exile was crucial
and as they had to take great care in not being recognized they secretly kept
their weapons in a Shami tree for a year. A year later they returned to the
Shami tree and found their weapons intact. They offered prayers to the Shami
tree as well as Goddess Durga, the presiding Goddess of strength and victory.
The Pandavas fought valiantly in the battle and emerged victorious thus
commemorating Vijayadashami.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;">There
are many legends relating to the importance of worshipping the Shami Tree on
this day, But every story emphasises that worshipping the Shami Tree on this
day would bring the devotees happiness and resolve their problems.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;">The Shami (Prosopis spicigera)
is a tree found in dry and arid regions at low altitudes. It is administered to
prevent miscarriage and is also used as a beauty enhancer to remove unwanted
hair. The bark is used to treat a range of diseases from asthma, bronchitis,
dysentery, leucoderma, leprosy, muscle tremors, piles etc. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;">But
the value of the two trees goes much beyond their medicinal properties. Both of
them can grow in very harsh climatic conditions and in poor soil. The roots of
the Shami are known to go down as deep as 35 metres in search of water. Being a
legume, it adds nitrogen to the soil and increases its fertility. In Rajasthan,
during times of famine, people eat the bark of the tree.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;">Despite having so
much importance these rare trees are brutally treated on the
Dussehra. Taking few leaves is different thing. But people who sell these leaves on this day, usually end up defoliating almost
the entire tree and ruthlessly breaking its branches. I don't think
hurting a live sacred tree will serve the purpose of Dussehra.
Instead, we should plant or
gift the tree itself to our loved ones? The</span> <span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;">Green
gold</span> <span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;">will be a perfect gift on this
Dussehra to keep the tradition of respecting the two trees alive and to
minimise the impact of this tradition on our nature.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;">I think our ancestors
had given lot of significance to worship various medicinal plants in several festivals
just to safeguard the nature and also our health.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: lime; font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><b>Happy Dussehra to all….</b><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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Vaishali G Kamathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13368641312089476984noreply@blogger.com5