Author: Dr.Sandeep Krishna sandeep

Sinusitis is the condition characterized by the inflammation of tissues around the sinuses. Sinuses are the air-filled spaces behind the nasal bone, forehead, cheeks and eyes. When these openings are blocked, they become prone to infections. The condition can be triggered by factors including common cold, pollen allergies. The symptoms of acute sinusitis include facial muscle pain, stuffiness of the nose, running nose, loss of smell, congestion, etc.

Ayurveda regards the cause of sinus infections to be an imbalance of PranaVata, a subtype of Vata which governs the brain and head and Shleshaka Kaphawhich governs moisture and lubrication balance. Imbalances of these doshascan block the sinus channels which leads to the imbalance of Pitta that causes sinus inflammation.

Ayurvedic recommendations to manage Sinusitis

Ginger is considered as a universal medicine in Ayurveda and is used
extensively for disorders pertaining to the digestive, respiratory and circulatory
system for thousands of years. A tonic and a stimulant, the versatility of ginger
can be found in its use in therapeutic purposes, traditional cuisine and common
home remedies.
Below listed are some of the incredible health benefits of ginger.
Anti-inflammatory
Ginger is hailed as an anti-inflammatory superfood alongside turmeric and
cardamom. It contains the compound gingerol, a natural anti-inflammatory and
antioxidant. This natural anti-inflammatory agent helps curb an overactive
immune system and induces healing.
Relieves muscle pain
The anti-inflammatory properties of ginger helps relieve muscle and joint pain
associated with conditions like arthritis. It lowers the levels of tissue hormones
that induce pain and inflammation to manage the condition. The spice is also
beneficial to treat muscle soreness induced by exercises.
Aids in digestion
The pungent root is famous for its therapeutic action on digestive health. It is
both a practical and effective antidote to indigestion, bloating, stomach pain and
nausea. Ginger protects and heals the gut while also promoting the movement of
food through gastrointestinal tract and reducing bloating and cramps. Chew a
small piece of fresh ginger before a meal helps induce appetite and boosts the
digestive capacity. Being a great digestive tonic, ginger improves gastric health,
alleviates constipation, vomiting, acidity and protects the gastric lining against
acidity.
Regulates blood sugar
One of the surprising health benefits of ginger is its ability to regulate blood
sugar. It temporarily increases the metabolic process where the body burns
stored fat to create heat. This boosting effect increases fat burning and promotes
healthy blood sugar levels.
Fights infections
Containing powerful anti-fungal and antimicrobial compounds, ginger fights
infections. The bio-active compound gingerol in the spice is also an analgesic,

sedative, antipyretic and antibacterial. Studies have found that ginger extract has
abilities to inhibit the growth of different types of bacteria including the oral
bacteria linked to the inflammatory diseases in the gums.
Clears congestion
Being a natural expectorant, ginger helps loosen up the phlegm in the lungs and
air passages and aids in its elimination. Drinking ginger tea is a common home
remedy to manage chest congestion and persistent cough.
Lowers cholesterol levels
Studies have also linked ginger to reduce low density lipoproteins or bad
cholesterol which is a major risk factor for heart disease.

Golden milk or turmeric milk is hailed as one of the healthiest drinks since
ancieent times. Made by adding turmeric powder or fresh turmeric root into
boiled milk, it is one of the staple drink in Indian households to fight minor
illnesses and also as a tonic for general health.
Below listed are some of the amazing benefits of turmeric milk.
Builds immunity
Turmeric milk is one of the most preferred health drink to improve general
immunity and to keep away diseases during the cold and flu season. Drink a
glass of turmeric milk in the morning or at night for preventing infectious
diseases with the drink’s antiviral and antibacterial effects.
Relieves respiratory tract infections
Golden milk is one of the commonly used traditional home remedy for cough,
cold and other respiratory tract infections. The spice helps boost mucus
production which naturally flushes out the microbes that are present in the
respiratory tract causing infections. Both the antiviral and antibacterial
properties along with the anti-inflammatory properties are at play here to help
relieve the symptoms.
Remedy for digestive issues
Regarded as an important culinary spice, turmeric helps improve digestion
while also relieving gas, bloating and heartburn resulting from gastric reflux. It
also increases the flow of bile which aids in the digestion of fat. A cup of
turmeric milk a day is an effective home remedy for loss of appetite and
indigestion. The drink is also used to prevent and treat gastrointestinal
infections and to get rid of worms, especially in children.
Liver tonic
Turmeric milk helps boost the liver function by reducing its toxic load which
includes environmental pollutants, chemical additives in processed foods and
medicines taken for diseases. The detoxifying action of turmeric is beneficial
for reducing the impact of these toxic substances on the liver tissue.
Blood purifier and natural detox
Turmeric has always been regarded as a good detoxifying agent by aiding in the
elimination of impurities in the blood and improving the function of the liver.

Also, the diuretic effects of turmeric helps eliminate these impurities and toxins
through urine.
Reduces arthritic pain
Turmeric milk is considered a highly effective herbal remedy for pains and
aches associated with conditions like arthritis. The anti-inflammatory benefits
provide relief to the pain and swelling due to arthritis. It also makes the joints
and muscles flexible, thereby reducing the pain.

Diet plays a major role in promoting heart health and to reduce the risks
associated with heart disease. It is also considered that certain foods can
influence the blood pressure, triglycerides, cholesterol levels and inflammation,
all of which are major contributors for heart health.
Here are 8 foods recommended to promote a healthy heart.
Leafy green vegetables
Rich in vitamins, minerals and antioxidants, leafy green vegetables like spinach,
kale, etc. promote heart health. They also contain a great source of Vitamin K
which protects the arteries. High in dietary nitrates, they help reduce blood
pressure, decrease the stiffness in arteries and improve the function of the cells
lining the blood vessels. Increasing the intake of leafy green vegetables is also
considered to reduce the risks associated with heart diseases.
Whole Grains
Including the nutrient rich parts of the grain – germ, endosperm and bran, whole
grains like whole wheat, brown rice, oats, barley, quinoa etc. are recommended
for heart health. Whole grains are also high in fiber when compared to refined
grains and help reduce the bad cholesterol which leads to the decrease of risk
for heart diseases.
Berries
Berries like strawberries, blueberries, blackberries and raspberries are packed
with important nutrients that are influential for heart health. Berries contain
anthocyanins that are antioxidants which fight oxidative stress and
inflammation that can lead to the development of heart diseases.
Walnuts
Walnuts contain fiber and micronutrients like magnesium, copper and
manganese along with a rich source of omega-3 fatty acids, Vitamin E and
folate which promote heart health.
Beans
Pulses and legumes such as beans, peas, chickpeas, lentils, etc. are effective for
reducing the levels of LDL or bad cholesterol and triglycerides. They are also
rich in fiber, protein and antioxidants that are beneficial for heart health.
Avocados

An excellent source of heart-healthy monosaturated fats, avocados are
considered to reduce cholesterol levels and lower risks for heart diseases. It is
also beneficial for minimizing blood clots.
Seeds
Seeds like chiaseeds and flaxseeds are great sources of nutrients like fiber and
omega-3 fatty acids which contribute to heart health. Including these seeds in
the diet will help reduce risks associated with heart disease like inflammation,
blood pressure, cholesterol and triglycerides. These also lower blood pressure
and minimize the build-up of plaques in the arteries.
Green tea
Green tea has been associated with properties that can help reduce cholesterol.
It can also facilitate increased fat burning and improve sensitivity to insulin.
Studies have also found out that the ingredients in it can also act as antioxidants
which prevent cell damage, reduce inflammation and promote overall heart
health.

Cholesterol is essentially a fatty acid produced by the liver which is necessary
for synthesizing hormones, bile acid and vitamin D. And according to
Ayurveda, cholesterol is important for supporting and lubricating various
circulatory channels in the body known as ‘Shrotas’. But an excess of
cholesterol will clog the arteries and leads to various heart problems. The
Ayurvedic approach to balancing cholesterol is not only limited to lowering
the cholesterol levels, but also to balance the overall fat metabolism of the
body with dietary recommendations.
Here are 7 Ayurvedic tips to manage high cholesterol.
 Alfalfa – Alfalfa is hailed for its ability to manage diseases related to
the arteries. It helps clear the arteries that are congested with
cholesterol. Alfalfa can be taken daily as whole or mixed with juice.
 Arjuna – Arjuna is a powerful Ayurvedic herb that is highly
recommended for managing cardiac conditions like blockages, heart
attacks etc. Consuming the bark of the Arjuna tree in the form of
powder is considered beneficial. It also has the ability to dissolve
cholesterol and prevent blocks. It is advised to consume it earlier in the
morning, before breakfast along with lukewarm water.
 Coriander Considered to be one of the best herbal diuretic agents,
coriander helps revitalize the kidneys while also promoting proper
excretion of waste. And hence, the kidneys will also be able flush the
excess cholesterol from the body. Coriander can be added into the daily
diet through cooking as well as garnishing.
 Garlic – Garlic is considered extremely beneficial to counter high
cholesterol. Having two cloves of garlic daily helps neutralize the effect
of high cholesterol in the blood. Another added benefit is its ability to
free up the arteries.
 Guggulu – One of the popular herbs for treating high blood
pressure and high cholesterol in the blood, guggulu contain
guggulsterones that can block bad cholesterol in the blood. Taking 25
mg of guggulu after meals helps reduce high cholesterol.
 Holy basil or Tulsi – It is another traditionally used herb to treat high
cholesterol in the blood stream. Tulsi has the ability to eliminate excess
cholesterol through the kidneys and also to disintegrate cholesterol
from the body. Having 2-3 leaves of tulsi daily is extremely beneficial.
 Fenugreek seeds – Rich in Vitamin E, fenugreek also possess
antidiabetic, antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. The compound
saponin found in fenugreek helps remove cholesterol and its fibre is

beneficial for reducing the synthesis in the liver. Including ½ to one
teaspoon of fenugreek seeds in daily diet is recommended.

The King of spices, black pepper is not only the widely used spice in the world
but also is hailed for the many health benefits it offers.
Here are the amazing health benefits of black pepper.
 Improves Digestive Health – Black pepper helps stimulate the digestive
juices and enzyme and thus promotes healthy digestion. When black
pepper is taken together with a meal it enhances the body’s ability to
break down and digest the food. The carminative properties of the spice
helps relieve stomach gas and flatulence.
 Promotes Weight Loss – The piperine compound in black pepper help
fight the formation of fat cells which aids in weight loss. Also, as black
pepper contains less calories, it makes a great addition to the weight loss
diet.
 Relieves Cold and Cough – Black pepper is known to stimulate
circulation and the mucous flow. And combining it with honey will help
enhance its effect as honey is a natural cough suppressant. Black pepper
also helps clear the respiratory tract and eases several other respiratory
ailments like whooping cough.
 Fights Infections – The antibacterial properties of black pepper help
prevent infection and spread of disease.
 Antioxidant Benefits – Antioxidant effects of the spice contributes to the
health in numerous ways. It fights the disease-causing free radicals and
boosts immunity.
 Improves Oral Health – Traditional oral health preparations often contain
black pepper as it help relieve toothache and oral infections. Pepper also
has anti-inflammatory properties which help treat gum inflammation.
Mixing black pepper with clove oil and applying on the affected area is
also considered beneficial.
 Exfoliates the skin – The spice can be used as a scrub to exfoliate the skin
and to remove dead skin cells to make the skin smoother. It also promotes
blood circulation and hence supplies more oxygen and nutrients to the
skin.

Sweet Potatoes
Sweet potatoes are one of the most nutritious vegetables one can eat with the skins
on. They are rich in potassium which is good for heart health and Vitamin A which
is beneficial for vision. Free from fat and cholesterol, sweet potatoes have a rich,
sugary flavour while also low in calories.
Beans
Beans are nutrient-packed lean plant-based proteins. They also contain high-
fiber protein and hence can be digested more slowly than other meat-based
proteins. This help stabilize blood sugar and keeps hunger satisfied for longer.
Beans are also high in antioxidants. Red kidney beans, black beans and black-
eyed peas are more nutritious among the whole class of beans.
Spinach
The sweet leafy green is packed with nutrients like vitamins A, C and E, folic
acid and calcium. It also has plenty of iron. Being a versatile leafy vegetable,
spinach can be eaten fresh, steamed, boiled, sautéed or baked. Raw spinach is
considered to be more nutritious than rest of the preparations.
Soybeans
Soybeans contain complete plant-based proteins, vitamins, minerals and
phytonutrients. The lean and readily available protein source in a small quantity
is enough to provide nutritional benefits. It can be eaten directly from their pods
or used in salad or mixed with grain-based dishes.
Almonds
A great source of protein, almonds are also the healthiest of nuts. It has healthy
fats, calcium, magnesium and vitamin E. Nutritional benefits can be best
enjoyed when eaten whole, unroasted and unsalted. The skin of almonds holds
half their antioxidant power.
Avocado
Avocado contains more protein than any other fruit. It is also high in healthy
monosaturated fats, potassium, vitamin E and lutein, the antioxidant. The
healthy fats present in it promote good blood flow and also reduces blood
pressure. One should also be careful with avocadoes as it has a high calorie
content.
Quinoa
Quinoa is small dried seeds that develop a nutty flavor and a fluffy and crunchy
texture when cooked. It is a plant-based source of complete proteins. Containing

a balanced set of essential amino acids, quinoa aid tissue growth and repair. A
significant amount of magnesium and phosphorus is also present in quinoa.
Broccoli
It is a cruciferous vegetable with a high source of vitamins A, C, K and B-6.
Steaming the vegetable for three to five minutes is ideal to preserve its
nutritional benefits. Eat it raw is also beneficial. Broccoli help enhance
detoxification and is effective to reduce inflammation as well.

Dry cough or Shushka Kasa is a common form of cough which does not
produce any mucus. When allergens or pollutants enter the throat pipe, airways
or lungs, they trigger the body to cough them out, which in turn leads to
inflammation of the respiratory tract and the throat. Dry cough can last for a
long time and can even become chronic.
Symptoms & Causes
Dry cough mostly presents with the below symptoms.
 Repeated dry coughs
 Formation of phlegm or sputum
 Dryness in the mouth and feeling excessive thirst and bitter taste
 Sore throat
 Burning sensation or suffocation in the chest
 Nausea
 Difficulty in swallowing food
Major causes of dry cough are infections in respiratory tract, sinusitis,
pneumonia, asthma, tuberculosis, inflammation due to allergens, etc. Dry
coughs can also be provoked by prolonged exposure to toxic smoke and high
pollution-levels.
Ayurvedic tips to manage dry cough
Follow these simple home remedies and lifestyle advises to manage dry
cough effectively.
 Turmeric milk – Hailed as a traditional medicine, turmeric milk is widely
used to treat dry cough and sore throat. Its benefits can be attributed to
the efficacy in treating respiratory tract infections. The ingredient
curcumin present in turmeric help fight inflammation and hence provides
relief from sore throat and dry cough. Drink warm turmeric milk before
bedtime for relief from sore throat.
 Ginger and honey cough syrup – Ginger can help relieve a variety of
respiratory disorders. It helps reduce phlegm and also relieves
inflammation. Honey is also an active ingredient

in Ayurvedic
medications for dry cough. Boil a piece of ginger in water. Filter the
water and mix in a teaspoon of honey and drink to soothe an infected
throat pipe.

 Basil concoction – Holy basil or Tulsi is a staple ingredient in most
Ayurvedic cough syrups and expectorants due to its ability in boosting
the body’s immunity. Boil water with a handful of basil leaves and steep
them for 15 minutes. Filter the water and drink. Adding ginger and honey
to the drink is also beneficial. Chewing tulsi leaves throughout the day will also aid in fast recovery.
 Eucalyptus steam – Eucalyptus oil is a highly recommended
decongestant. It is effective in fighting infections and has anti-
inflammatory and analgesic properties. Add 2-3 drops of eucalyptus oil to
boiling water and inhale the vapour. Massaging the throat and upper chest
with a few drops of eucalyptus oil is also beneficial.
 Consume turmeric powder mixed with honey thrice daily.
 Drink tea or coffee made with a decoction of sauf or aniseed.
 Add a pinch of cinnamon powder in warm water or tea and drink it for
relief from throat irritability.
 Inhaling steam or boiled water that contain peppermint oil is effective for
both dry as well as wet coughs.
Some lifestyle advises to follow when suffering from dry coughs.
 Avoid interaction with allergies like dust, pollen, pollution, etc.
 Restrict junk, spicy, dry and fast food

Prefer soups or warm nourishing foods in small quantities to strengthen
the digestive fire
 Stay away from irritants like smoke from mosquito coils and incense
 Install humidifier in bedroom
 Maintain a regular diet routine and sleep schedule
 Practice pranayama to strengthen the lungs