Author: Dr.Sandeep Krishna sandeep

Ayurveda recommends following a seasonal lifestyle or ritucharya during different seasons to maintain the balance with the nature. In summer, the high temperatures cause excessive sweating which makes the body lose essential electrolytes and fluids. Ayurveda suggests the intake of herbal drinks and specific fruit juices to replenish the fluid level in the body and to prevent dehydration.

Following are cooling Ayurvedic drinks recommended for summer.

Paralysis, also called as hemiplegia is the condition where one side of the body loses the ability of muscle function or movement. It is often caused by the damage to the nervous system or the spinal cord. Stroke, trauma, injury to the nerves and muscular dystrophy can be the other major causes for partial or complete paralysis.
Paralysis is classified into 3 different types,
Hemiplegia – Muscle weakness on one side of the body which may be a result of the damage to the opposite side of the brain.
Paraplegia – Paralysis of the lower half of the body.
Quadriplegia – The partial or complete paralysis of the four limbs and the torso.
Ayurvedic treatment for paralysis
Ayurveda refers to paralysis as Pakshaghat which is caused due to the imbalance of Vata dosha, which governs the sensory activities and coordinates the voluntary movements in the body.
The Ayurvedic line of treatment is aligned with restoring the motor and sensory functions of the brain through treatment modalities that include Panchakarma, external therapies, internal medications, yoga, pranayama, meditation, etc.
Panchakarma – Panachakarma treatment for paralysis aim for improving the functioning of the peripheral nervous system and blood circulation. Therapies like Virechana, Vasthi and Nasya for cleansing the body off aggravated doshas are highly recommended.
Abhyanaga – Full body Ayurvedic massage with oils like Dhanwantaram Taila, Ksheerabala taila, Bala ashwagandha taila, Mahamasha tails are performed to rejuvenate the body and strengthen the muscular system.
Pizhichil – The patient’s body will be bathed in continuous stream of warm medicated oils in different postures for improving blood circulation and for overall rejuvenation.
Njavara Kizhi – Boluses containing rice of medicinal value that is cooked in milk along with herbal decoction is used for fomentation of the body in this therapy. It is very effective for nourishing and rejuvenating the body and is advised in paralysis.
Shirodhara – Continuous stream of medicated oil is poured gently on the head for relaxing both the mind and body, while also being therapeutic to conditions like hemiplegia.
Udwarthanam – The procedure of massaging the body with medicated herbal powders using upward strokes is recommended for improving circulation and to rejuvenate the muscles.

Conjunctivitis is the condition caused by to the inflammation of the transparent layer outside the eyeball called conjunctiva. It may occur due to allergic reactions to dust, pollens, chemicals or can also be caused by a viral or bacterial infection.
Symptoms of Conjunctivitis
• Redness in the eyes
• Burning and itching sensation in the eyes
• Watering of the eyes
• Swelling of conjunctiva
• Blurred vision
Conjunctivitis and Ayurveda
The condition is called Netrabhishyandam in Ayurveda and is caused by the vitiation of Pitta and Kapha doshas. When Kapha dosha gets aggravated in the eye, it vitiates the Pitta dosha and causes redness, watery secretions and swelling which lead to conjunctivitis.
Ayurvedic management of the condition involves balancing the doshas involved and application of herbal remedies.
Following are some Ayurvedic home remedies to help manage conjunctivitis.
• Soak half a teaspoon of Triphala powder in a glass of water overnight. Filter the water in the morning and use it to wash the eyes.
• Mix some turmeric with a little amount of water, dip a small and neat piece of cloth in it and let it dry. Use this cloth to wipe the affected area of eyes to help reduce infection.
• Mix some amla juice with honey and drink it twice daily for quick healing.
• Put a few drops of coconut oil in the eyes and lie down for some time to reduce the swelling and itching in the eyes.
• Place a cucumber slice over the eyelid for a soothing effect on the eye.
• Dip a small and neat towel in cold water and place it gently on the affected eye to relieve the pain and irritation.
• Dip a cotton ball in some goat’s milk and wipe the eyes with it for the conjunctivitis to heal quickly.
• Make a paste of neem leaves and apply it externally over the eyelids to reduce the pain.
• Blend some coriander leaves with half a cup of water. Filter the mixture and apply the pulp on the closed eyelids.
• Steep a teaspoonful of coriander seeds in a cup of water for 15 minutes. Strain it and apply the water externally on the eyelids for relief from conjunctivitis.
• Drink a glass of lemon juice early in the morning on an empty stomach to reduce the infection.

A well-balanced, healthy diet is key in ensuring a healthy eyesight and for reducing the risk of developing eye conditions in the future. Foods that contain a large range of vitamins, minerals, nutrients and antioxidants should be included in the diet for preventing conditions like glaucoma, cataract, dry eyes and poor night vision.
Below listed are 5 foods for a healthier eyesight.
Carrots – Rich in Vitamin A and beta-Carotene, carrots are well-known for being good for eye health. It helps the retina and also prevents eye infections and other eye conditions. Munch on raw carrots or add them in salads or make juice of it to increase the intake for healthy vision.
Amla – Loaded with Vitamin C which plays a key role in maintaining retinal cells and also for promoting healthy capillaries, eye health is one of the many health benefits of this wonder sour fruit. Drink amla juice on an empty stomach in the morning or eat one daily for healthier eyes.
Almonds – Almonds contain Vitamin E which is essential for preventing age-related macular degeneration which is the deterioration of the small central area of the retina which controls visual activity. Snack on almonds daily and replenish your Vitamin E levels.
Green leafy vegetables – Leady greens are packed with antioxidants lutein and zeaxanthin that help prevent cataracts and age-related macular degeneration. Soups, smoothies, salads and cooking leafy greens with pulses are some of the healthy ways to incorporate these in your diet for sharp vision.
Blueberries – Blueberries are also high in Vitamin C & A and antioxidants that help improve eye health. These can decrease the risk of developing glaucoma, cataract and inflammatory eye diseases. Blueberries also contain zinc that is effective against macular degeneration and night blindness.

Long, lustrous and healthy hair is given equal importance as that of a flawless and glowing skin in a person’s appearance. But achieving that charming locks involves a tedious process, one that is deemed impossible. However, nutrition plays a vital role in accelerating hair growth and providing it that enviable shine and texture. It is advised to eat mindfully for hair health as the nutritional value in our food reflect in the health of hair follicles and scalp.
Listed below are 7 Ayurvedic foods that are vital for hair health.
• Amla
Among amla’s numerous health benefits is the abundance of Vitamin C which is essential for stimulating hair growth. Eating it raw or drinking amla juice is highly beneficial for thicker hair. The tangy fruit is also capable of combating hair loss.

• Dark green leafy vegetables
Including green leafy vegetables like spinach and broccoli in the diet helps nourish the hair roots with adequate amounts of iron, vitamins and calcium. The vitamins in these also assist in conditioning the hair and promotes circulation of scalp oils for moisturisation.

• Nuts and dry fruits
Packed with iron, protein, minerals and omega fatty acids, nuts and dry fruits like almonds, walnuts, dates and raisins help maintain healthy hair follicles while also preventing hair fall.

• Flax seeds
Flax seeds are rich in Omega 3 fatty acids which promote scalp health and stimulate hair growth. They also nourish the hair follicles and make them less prone to damage.

• Whole grains
Whole grains like oatmeal and brown rice contain biotin which is required for producing amino acids that are required for hair growth. They are also rich in iron, zinc and B vitamins which promote shiny and strong hair.

• Carrots
Carrots are packed with Vitamin A which is effective in making the hair thicker, longer and shinier, while also combating hair loss. Drinking carrot juice daily is said to stimulate hair growth.

• Citrus fruits
Citrus fruits like lemon, orange and grapefruit are also rich in Vitamin C that supplies nutrients to the hair. Drinking juices of these fruits will help ensure the regular supply of nutrition for hair growth.

Winter season is considered to bring many ailments and diseases with the cold winds and dry weather. And according to Ayurveda, winter season calls for actions to strengthen one’s immunity. From our skin to hair to nails, our body requires to be nourished during the cold season.
Following are some Ayurvedic tips that will help you stay healthy and happy during winter.
• Immunity-boosting foods
Fresh, organic and easy-to digest food is preferred during the winter season to improve immunity. Sweet, sour and salty tastes need to be included in the diet to nourish and balance the body. Vegetables, fruits, whole grains, warm soups, ghee and less-oily foods should be eaten.
• Proper rest
To maintain balance in the body with regards to the shorter days and longer nights in winter, adequate rest and relaxation is vital. Exposing the body to stress and fatigue during the cold season will upset the natural rhythm and harmony of the system. Get enough sleep and follow a routine for going to sleep and waking up.
• Regular oil massage
Starting the day with an oil massage is considered an effective remedy to moisturize, nourish and protect the body in winter. It also boosts immunity, promotes sound sleep and also provides relief from winter aches and pains.
• Yoga and exercises
Following a daily routine of exercise or yoga is highly beneficial in keeping the body warm and balanced. It also boosts energy levels and prevents winter weight gain.
• Detoxification
Sipping on warm water throughout the day or drinking herbal teas will help flush out the toxins from the body.
• Winter breathing problems
The season is also the onset of asthma attacks, sinusitis, bronchitis and chest congestion. Some important tips to manage these breathing problems include covering your nose and mouth when going out in cold, practising breathing exercises, inhaling vapours of medicinal decoctions, etc.

Insomnia and insufficient sleep have been common these days with stress and anxiety in the rise. Sound sleep is required to prevent body exhaustion and is also vital to balance both the mind and body. Sleeping disorders can inevitably result in many health problems.
According to the ancient wisdom of Ayurveda, imbalances of vata and dosha can cause the inability to sleep or can interrupt sleep. And the approach to promoting sound sleep involves following disciplined sleeping habits and helping the body attain complete relaxation.
Following are 5 Ayurvedic herbs that help induce sleep, while also aiding in relieving excessive stress and anxiety.
Brahmi
Brahmi is considered as a brain tonic in Ayurveda due to its ability to improve concentration and memory. It also supports a restful sleep while soothing turbulent emotions. Brahmi can be consumed in various forms such as powder, capsule or tablet.
Ashwagandha
The compound triethylene glycol found in Ashwagandha can induce sleep. This herb is also useful in relieving stress and physical exhaustion which are the common underlying causes for lack of sleep. Ashwagandha is available as powder, capsule and tablet.
Shankhapushpi
This herb contains compounds that act as neuro-protectors and can soothe the nervous system by relieving mental fatigue. Shankapushpi is also a natural tranquiliser for risks related to anxiety and hence can promote better sleep.
Sarpagandha
Sarpagandha is considered one of the most effective remedies to induce sleep. It contains alkaloids that can help reduce high blood pressure which can cause sleeping issues.
Jatamansi
Jatamansi help provide calmness and relaxation to an agitated mind and is useful in treating anxiety-induced insomnia. The herb promotes sound sleep while also rejuvenating the nervous system.

In Ayurveda, Ama is the undigested toxic residue that is created by the impaired
Agni or digestive fire.
Described in ancient texts as the underlying cause of many health issues,
accumulation of ama blocks channels that carry essential nutrients to every part
of the body. And when ama spreads into deeper tissues, it leads to weakened
immunity, lack of strength and sluggishness.
The process of eliminating Ama should support the body’s natural and
physiological detoxification process and is vital for boosting metabolism,
improving digestive capacity and enhancing tissue nutrition.
Here are 6 tips to avoid Ama build up in the body –
1. Healthy Diet
A healthy diet is mandatory to keep the digestive fire alive which will
efficiently reduce ama build up. An ama pacifying diet should include pungent,
bitter and astringent tastes, green leafy vegetables, whole grains and spicy teas
over sweet and salty tastes, processed grains, dairy and iced drinks. Over eating
and irregular eating habits should be avoided to manage Ama.
2. Fasting
Along with proper diet, occasional fasting is also helpful in eliminating Ama.
When fasting, the digestive system is at rest and the body uses up the energy to
eliminate impurities and repair the system. It also improves appetite and
revitalizes digestion and clears up the channels of the body.
3. Sweating
Warming the body and inducing perspiration loosens Ama’s grip in the tissues
and moves it into the digestive tract so that it can eliminated. Ayurvedic therapy
Swedana is helpful in inducing sweating that flushes out the toxins.
4. Therapeutic herbs
Consuming herbs that can kindle the digestive fire is helpful in reducing Ama.
Most of these herbs are essentially the common household spices like cumin,
cinnamon, fennel, fresh and dried ginger, nutmeg, mustards, garlic, black
pepper and coriander.
5. Yoga

Yoga is beneficial as it stretches and wrings out the tissues that may have
accumulated Ama. Practicing yoga every day is said to be remarkably
transformative for bringing down Ama Accumulation.
6. Pranayama
Imbibing prana or the life force into the tissues is helpful in eliminating Ama.
Taking several relaxing and deep breaths calms the system and infuses prana
into every cell and tissue, while also cleanses the body of toxins.

Sleep is one of the fundamental functions required to keep the body from
exhausting itself. It is vital in maintaining health and balance in the body, while
also providing time for the body to heal and repair itself. Sleep is also a
determining factor in creating balance between the mind and emotions.
Sleep pattern can vary individually, some may suffer from irregular sleep, while
others get too much sleep. And imbalance in sleep patterns pose serious health
risks. Improper sleep and insomnia can have adverse effects on the system by
disrupting the body clock. For many, insomnia surfaces with chronic stress,
anxiety or depression. Illness, physical discomfort, seasonal variations and
change in schedules can also cause sleepless nights.
Ayurvedic perspective of insomnia
According to Ayurveda, imbalances of vata or pitta doshas are involved in
insomnia. Pitta dosha is said to cause inability to fall asleep, while vata dosha
can interrupt sleep resulting in being awaken during night time. The Ayurvedic
approach to balancing insomnia is heavily focused on helping the body oppose
the sleep-disrupting influences. The transition into sleep is made easier in this
approach while also helping in maintaining the state of rest until the body is
fully relaxed.
How to promote sound sleep
For a balanced sleep cycle, Ayurveda recommends calming down the mind,
following a daily routine based on the biological cycle and by reducing stress
and tension in the mind and body.
Following practices can be observed during specific time of the day to promote
sound sleep.
Before bed
 Bath – Taking a bath with warm water before bed relaxes the nervous
system, releases tension and calms down the mind.
 Drinking milk – A glass of warm milk before sleep is ideal to sooth the
body.
 Foot massage – Massaging the sole of the feet with warm oil supports
downward moving energy which promotes sound sleep.
After Waking

 Abhyanga – The Ayurvedic oil massage calms the nervous system while
is also nurturing to the body.
 Morning routine – A regular routine of bath, yoga, meditation or
pranayama help set the body clock in order.
Sleep Hygiene
Following a good sleep hygiene is also vital to promote sound sleep. This
includes practices which keep away unwanted distractions from the mind and
body while transitioning into a state of rest.
 Ambience – The bedroom should be un-cluttered to induce a positive
vibe. The temperature, lighting, humidity and noise levels should be
supportive for an uninterrupted sleep.
 Eliminate screen time – It is best to avoid watching TV or using mobile
or laptop right before bed as these can disrupt the biological rhythm that
support sleep.
 Eliminate stimulants – Caffeine, nicotine, alcohol and soft drinks act as
stimulants that can affect the physiological cycle required for deep sleep.