Publication: discoverayurveda.com
Author: Unknown
Almonds are the oldest and most widely grown of all the world’s nut crops. They are the seeds of a fruit tree that is related to plums and apricots. Whole almonds are eaten raw or toasted, while almond oil is used in cosmetics and massage oils. Almonds are also highly regarded in ayurveda for their nutritional value and Vata-pacifying effect.
WHAT’S IN THEM?
Worried about gaining weight, many people stay away from nuts and seeds because of their fat content. However, if eaten in moderate quantities, almonds provide several essential nutrients. For one, they are 20% protein. If you eat an ounce of almonds a day (about 24 nuts) you will get about 5.6 grams of protein. They are also rich in Vitamin E and magnesium and contain calcium, iron, phosphorus, potassium and zinc.
WHAT DO THEY DO?
Maharishi ayurveda recommends sweet almonds instead of bitter ones. Because of their sweet and warming quality, they are best for pacifying Vata dosha. They lubricate the skin and the microcirculatory channels and support all the seven dhatus (tissues), especially Shukra dhatu (reproductive tissue). Almonds are also good for Pitta but people with Kapha imbalance should eat them in small quantities. Due to their heavy quality, you need a strong agni, digestive fire, to metabolize them. If your agni is low, strengthen it first before you take almonds. The only people who should not consume almonds are those with high Pitta in the blood. An ayurvedic consultant can determine whether you have this condition and how to balance it.
HOW TO EAT THEM
Buy whole organic almonds, which contain most of Nature’s intelligence. Their skin is hard to digest so ayurveda recommends blanching them. Soaking also helps their digestibility. If eaten without soaking, they can aggravate Pitta in the blood. The best way to prepare them is to soak them overnight and peel the skin off in the morning. Then you can blend them with dates and raisins, which also reduce Pitta aggravation in the blood. Eat up to 10 almonds in the morning and evening. Almonds should not be eaten by themselves on an empty stomach, but always mixed with other foods such as milk, grains or vegetables, to avoid Pitta imbalance. Since they are so versatile, you can add them to most of your dishes. You can sprinkle chopped almonds on puddings and add them to muffins and breads. You can mix almonds in your grains and cook them together. Add toasted almonds to your salads, or blend them with the salad dressing. Toasting enhances the flavor of the nuts and helps their digestibility. Blend almonds with dates and raisins and add them to your breakfast cereal. Make an almond milk-shake or a fruit smoothie for a satisfying drink. Mixed with walnuts, sunflower seeds, dates and raisins, they provide a delicious and nutritious snack, you can take with you to school or work.
ALMOND OIL
Sweet almond oil is the best massage oil for Vata people, or those with a Vata imbalance. As almonds balance Vata when you eat them, almond oil pacifies Vata when applied externally. It penetrates the skin easily and nourishes the deeper layers.
Monday, 6 August 2007
Sunday, 5 August 2007
Mango - The King of Fruits
Publication: Discover Ayurveda
Author: Unknown
Mangoes are not eaten as routinely in America as are apples and pears, for instance, but if you ever try a fully ripe, sweet juicy mango, you will want to try it again and again. Eaten by themselves or in a variety of dishes, mangoes add antioxidants and fiber to your diet.
The “king of fruits” has been around for at least 6,000 years. Native to India and Burma, this sweet fruit was described in the ancient Sanskrit literature, for example in Valmiki’s Ramayana. The mango was also the fruit of the kings in ancient India, where princes used to pride themselves on the possession of large mango gardens. Persian traders took the fruit into the Middle East while the Portuguese brought it to Europe and the New World. Mango cultivation arrived in Florida in the 1830s and in California in the 1880s, and now it is also grown in Hawaii, Mexico and South America.
Ever since the Vedic period, mangoes have been highly appreciated in ayurvedic healing and cooking. Mango trees belong to the same family as cashews and pistachios, and can grow to the height of 50 feet in India. All parts of the tree are used for different purposes. The leaf plays an important role in Hindu festivals and ceremonies. The bark, leaf, flowers, fruit and seed offer a variety of medicinal purposes. There are also over a thousand varieties of mangoes that vary in shape from round to pear-shaped to narrow and oval, and that can weigh as much as four pounds each.
Ripe mangoes are succulent and sweet, with a yellow-orange or red skin. They are ready to eat when they are soft to touch and yield to gentle pressure. They should also omit a full fruity aroma from the stem end. Most supermarket mangoes are green but you can ripen them at room temperature. Once they ripen, store them in the refrigerator for up to three days. The best eating mango is fibre free, but even a stringy mango can be sweet and juicy.
Ayurveda considers ripe mango sweet and heating. It balances all the three doshas and acts as an energizer.
Green, unripe mango is also used in Indian cooking. Several varieties are especially cultivated for using raw. Green mango could be picked long before ripening while it is still hard. The fruit is grated and added to dhals and vegetables, or made into chutneys and pickles. The ayurvedic qualities of green mango are sour, astringent and cooling. They should not be eaten alone or in large quantities because they can aggravate the doshas, especially Pitta dosha. However, prepared ayurvedically, in combination with spices, for example in a chutney, they help digestion and improve the flavor of food.
Mangoes are in season from January through August, peaking in June. Mangoes from South Florida are the best in the United States, since the soil and climate is ideal. Try to find organic mangoes that have not been treated with fertilizers or pesticides. Also beware of imported mangoes, which are often irradiated or sprayed with chemicals banned in the United States. Your supermarket or grocer can tell you where the fruits are from.
Mangoes are rich in antioxidants such as beta-carotene, and Vitamin C, Antioxidants have been shown to play an important role in the prevention of cancer and heart disease. They also contain bioflavonoids, the compounds that help plants capture energy from the sun, and when eaten they aid our immune system. Mangoes also supply potassium and fibre and are low in calories. The insoluble fibre, abundant in mangoes, aids the elimination of waste from the colon and prevents constipation.
Mangoes support all the seven dhatus (body tissues) and provide a very satisfying snack or dessert. An ayurvedic mango lassi provides a great refreshing drink for any summer meal. A milk-mango shake cools the physiology and helps weight gain. Mangoes can also be added to puddings, salads or fruit desserts. Try to use fresh mango instead of canned mango puree which is void of the nutritional benefits of fresh fruit and may contain added sugar.
Author: Unknown
Mangoes are not eaten as routinely in America as are apples and pears, for instance, but if you ever try a fully ripe, sweet juicy mango, you will want to try it again and again. Eaten by themselves or in a variety of dishes, mangoes add antioxidants and fiber to your diet.
The “king of fruits” has been around for at least 6,000 years. Native to India and Burma, this sweet fruit was described in the ancient Sanskrit literature, for example in Valmiki’s Ramayana. The mango was also the fruit of the kings in ancient India, where princes used to pride themselves on the possession of large mango gardens. Persian traders took the fruit into the Middle East while the Portuguese brought it to Europe and the New World. Mango cultivation arrived in Florida in the 1830s and in California in the 1880s, and now it is also grown in Hawaii, Mexico and South America.
Ever since the Vedic period, mangoes have been highly appreciated in ayurvedic healing and cooking. Mango trees belong to the same family as cashews and pistachios, and can grow to the height of 50 feet in India. All parts of the tree are used for different purposes. The leaf plays an important role in Hindu festivals and ceremonies. The bark, leaf, flowers, fruit and seed offer a variety of medicinal purposes. There are also over a thousand varieties of mangoes that vary in shape from round to pear-shaped to narrow and oval, and that can weigh as much as four pounds each.
Ripe mangoes are succulent and sweet, with a yellow-orange or red skin. They are ready to eat when they are soft to touch and yield to gentle pressure. They should also omit a full fruity aroma from the stem end. Most supermarket mangoes are green but you can ripen them at room temperature. Once they ripen, store them in the refrigerator for up to three days. The best eating mango is fibre free, but even a stringy mango can be sweet and juicy.
Ayurveda considers ripe mango sweet and heating. It balances all the three doshas and acts as an energizer.
Green, unripe mango is also used in Indian cooking. Several varieties are especially cultivated for using raw. Green mango could be picked long before ripening while it is still hard. The fruit is grated and added to dhals and vegetables, or made into chutneys and pickles. The ayurvedic qualities of green mango are sour, astringent and cooling. They should not be eaten alone or in large quantities because they can aggravate the doshas, especially Pitta dosha. However, prepared ayurvedically, in combination with spices, for example in a chutney, they help digestion and improve the flavor of food.
Mangoes are in season from January through August, peaking in June. Mangoes from South Florida are the best in the United States, since the soil and climate is ideal. Try to find organic mangoes that have not been treated with fertilizers or pesticides. Also beware of imported mangoes, which are often irradiated or sprayed with chemicals banned in the United States. Your supermarket or grocer can tell you where the fruits are from.
Mangoes are rich in antioxidants such as beta-carotene, and Vitamin C, Antioxidants have been shown to play an important role in the prevention of cancer and heart disease. They also contain bioflavonoids, the compounds that help plants capture energy from the sun, and when eaten they aid our immune system. Mangoes also supply potassium and fibre and are low in calories. The insoluble fibre, abundant in mangoes, aids the elimination of waste from the colon and prevents constipation.
Mangoes support all the seven dhatus (body tissues) and provide a very satisfying snack or dessert. An ayurvedic mango lassi provides a great refreshing drink for any summer meal. A milk-mango shake cools the physiology and helps weight gain. Mangoes can also be added to puddings, salads or fruit desserts. Try to use fresh mango instead of canned mango puree which is void of the nutritional benefits of fresh fruit and may contain added sugar.
Tender Loving Coconuts
Publication: Discover Ayurveda
Author: Unknown
Crack!
The dark, fibrous shell breaks, and fragrant coconut liquid begins to ooze out. Using a sharp knife, you separate the luscious white flesh from its shell; then grate it to make rich, delicious coconut milk. The milk will add delicate flavor and a smooth creamy texture to your lentil soup simmering on the stove.
But it is not only for its taste that the coconut is valued, says The Council of Maharishi Ayurveda Physicians. “Coconut,” says The Council, ” is considered a divine plant in the Vedic tradition. Whenever you perform a sacred ceremony like a yagya, a coconut must grace the occasion. Thus, the coconut enjoys the hallowed status of a select few herbs and fruits-like holy basil and amla-in the Vedic tradition.
“What’s in a Coconut? The Council goes on to reflect on the flak that the coconut has received from certain quarters. “I know that people accuse the coconut of being heavy, ama-causing, and cholesterol-increasing. In my opinion, they are only partially right. A recent research study from the Department of Biochemistry in the University of Kerala states that the fatty-acid composition of coconut changes as it grows. This change in composition is being studied by scientists in many places. But ayurvedic scholars knew many centuries ago that coconut has different properties at different stages of its life.”
“In the ayurvedic nighantus or classical texts which talk about raw materials or fruits, the coconut is actually divided into three types of coconuts,” says The Council.
Baal: tender or baby coconut
Madhyam: half-mature coconut
Pakva: fully mature coconut
The Three Coconuts
Baal or Tender coconut: This type is 90 to 95 percent water. The liquid from this coconut is at its purest and most healing. It is considered the best for its cooling properties, for it is a proven pitta-pacifier. While unclogging the body’s channels, tender coconut water lubricates the dryness caused by ama. It repairs the gastro-intestinal tract, and its snigdha or sweet quality gives it a pranaropana-life-restoring-capacity.
Madhyam or Middle-aged coconut: In addition to water, the coconut at this stage has some soft pulp. Madhyam coconuts have less water than tender ones, but more water than mature coconuts. The water is slightly milky at this age. In the classical ayurvedic texts called Raj Nighantus, the middle-aged coconut is said to be the most nutritious. This type generally has more carbohydrates, protein, minerals, phosphorus, and Vitamins A, B, and C than the other two forms.
Mature or Pakva coconut: This type of coconut has firm “meat” or pulp, and very little water. Ancient ayurvedic scholar Bhav Mishra wrote that when a coconut becomes mature, it becomes heavy to digest, and it can also aggravate pitta or vata if the digestive agni of the individual is low. Mature coconuts can also build up toxic ama by interfering with digestion. If large quantities of this variety are consumed daily, then a person can suffer hyperacidity, and worse still, elevated cholesterol levels.
Therefore, people who have low agni or digestive power are not advised to eat mature coconut, unless it is combined with ingredients that balance its negative properties. In the south of India, for instance, says The Council, a popular way to eat coconut is in the form of chutney. Combined with healthful ingredients like roasted chickpea flour, curry leaves, mustard seeds, and oil, the coconut is used in smaller quantities, and can actually be beneficial.
The Key To Eating Coconuts
The Council points out that if you understand the samyoga and samskara of coconuts: that is, the right ways to choose, combine, process, and prepare them, then you can extract the maximum benefit from this healing fruit.
In general, tender and middle aged coconuts are good for almost anyone. But if you’re a kapha-dominated person and drink coconut water at night, then it will make you feel so cool and heavy that your kapha dosha will go out of gear, causing all sorts of health problems. Ayurvedic literature is full of praise for the tender coconut. Ayurveda’s revered ancient healer, Sushruta, noted that tender coconuts are “bal maans prada” in nature. That is, they strengthen muscle, the cardiovascular system, and the seven body tissues. Middle-aged coconuts are also said to possess these healing properties. Both kinds help cleanse the urinary tract.
The Council of Maharishi Ayurveda Physicians quotes Charaka, who is widely credited as being the founding father of ayurveda, as having observed that tender and half-mature coconuts have “bringhan, snigdha, seetani, balyani, madurani ” properties. Which means they increase the quantity and quality of all 7 tissues, they are vata-pacifying in nature because of their unctuous qualities, they cool and strengthen, and are filled with sweetness. To this, Bhav Mishra adds that “komal narikelam nihanti pitta jwar pitta dosha.” That is, the tender coconut helps get rid of any heat related to pitta aggravation, and alleviates any pitta-related disorders.
17 Reasons You Should Love Tender Coconut
There is much to love about the tender coconut: There are times when your body fills up with pitta-charged ama-visha (toxic matter). This causes the ph levels in the deeper digestive system to fall, leading to severe hyperacidity or amla pitta. That’s when the coconut can step in to heal. Because it is anuloman in nature-capable of getting all the toxins and Vata to move downward and helping to move pitta and purify the digestive system of it-tender coconut balances acid levels and cools the system. This makes it superior to other herbs and fruits that can cool down pitta, but do not flush it out of the system.
Ayurveda considers coconut a natural stress-buster.
Coconut cools sadhaka pitta, which is associated with emotions.
Combined with spices like cinnamon, cardamom, ginger, cloves, cumin, coriander, and turmeric, coconut is not only delicious and versatile, but also heals the digestive system and promotes better metabolism.
The juice of tender coconut has been billed “the world’s safest natural soft drink” for being a nutritious thirst-quencher.
Combined with poppy seeds and ghee, coconut can help you sleep better! For the complete recipe, visit the recipes section.
Coconut has keshya properties — that is, it improves hair quality. In Southern India, women apply coconut oil to their hair every day-which gives them long, lustrous locks.
Coconut is good for curing stomach disorders related to aggravation of pitta dosha.
Due to its soma-enhancing or nurturing value, coconut heals hot flashes and restores emotional stability in menopausal women.
Coconut improves the complexion. You can make coconut-based skin packs at home. The Council suggests mixing coconut oil with oatmeal powder and a little bit of lavender flower powder to make a soothing facial pack.
A burning sensation in hands and feet is cooled down by drinking coconut water/milk. All you have to do is make a paste of crushed middle aged coconut and apply it on hands and feet.
Coconut is traditionally considered a wound healer, especially effective at preventing the formation of scars if applied topically.
Hiccups due to pitta are also eased by coconut water.
If you have urine retention from heat, then coconut water helps. Similarly, liver problems, such as inflammation, are also soothed by drinking tender coconut water.
There is a word called karshan meaning “that which supports the body to stay slim by enhancing fat metabolism.” The Council of Maharishi Ayurveda Physicians says recent research suggests that coconut is good for burning fat and lowering cholesterol- and it is clearly written in ayurveda that the oil has karshan properties.
Coconut helps detoxify and flush toxins out of the body.
It is delicious!
Coconut Cooking Basics
You can drink the liquid that comes out of a coconut, but don’t use it in cooking. Fresh coconut is always best, but if it is not readily available, you can generally find good quality dried, grated coconut and coconut chips in natural food stores. Use the unsweetened type, which is free of chemical ingredients. Tender coconuts, or ones with pulp and water, are generally available at oriental groceries. Slash off the top with a sharp knife (the store will sometimes help open coconuts), insert a straw, and enjoy!Use coconut milk the same day-make it fresh each time. Grate fresh coconut and blend with a little warm water. Squeeze to get the rich first extraction. Add more water re-blend and squeeze again to get a thinner second extraction.
Strain.
The sweltering days of summer are ideal for cooking-and cooling-with coconut.
We hope you will try different ways to enjoy this nourishing, cooling food.
Author: Unknown
Crack!
The dark, fibrous shell breaks, and fragrant coconut liquid begins to ooze out. Using a sharp knife, you separate the luscious white flesh from its shell; then grate it to make rich, delicious coconut milk. The milk will add delicate flavor and a smooth creamy texture to your lentil soup simmering on the stove.
But it is not only for its taste that the coconut is valued, says The Council of Maharishi Ayurveda Physicians. “Coconut,” says The Council, ” is considered a divine plant in the Vedic tradition. Whenever you perform a sacred ceremony like a yagya, a coconut must grace the occasion. Thus, the coconut enjoys the hallowed status of a select few herbs and fruits-like holy basil and amla-in the Vedic tradition.
“What’s in a Coconut? The Council goes on to reflect on the flak that the coconut has received from certain quarters. “I know that people accuse the coconut of being heavy, ama-causing, and cholesterol-increasing. In my opinion, they are only partially right. A recent research study from the Department of Biochemistry in the University of Kerala states that the fatty-acid composition of coconut changes as it grows. This change in composition is being studied by scientists in many places. But ayurvedic scholars knew many centuries ago that coconut has different properties at different stages of its life.”
“In the ayurvedic nighantus or classical texts which talk about raw materials or fruits, the coconut is actually divided into three types of coconuts,” says The Council.
Baal: tender or baby coconut
Madhyam: half-mature coconut
Pakva: fully mature coconut
The Three Coconuts
Baal or Tender coconut: This type is 90 to 95 percent water. The liquid from this coconut is at its purest and most healing. It is considered the best for its cooling properties, for it is a proven pitta-pacifier. While unclogging the body’s channels, tender coconut water lubricates the dryness caused by ama. It repairs the gastro-intestinal tract, and its snigdha or sweet quality gives it a pranaropana-life-restoring-capacity.
Madhyam or Middle-aged coconut: In addition to water, the coconut at this stage has some soft pulp. Madhyam coconuts have less water than tender ones, but more water than mature coconuts. The water is slightly milky at this age. In the classical ayurvedic texts called Raj Nighantus, the middle-aged coconut is said to be the most nutritious. This type generally has more carbohydrates, protein, minerals, phosphorus, and Vitamins A, B, and C than the other two forms.
Mature or Pakva coconut: This type of coconut has firm “meat” or pulp, and very little water. Ancient ayurvedic scholar Bhav Mishra wrote that when a coconut becomes mature, it becomes heavy to digest, and it can also aggravate pitta or vata if the digestive agni of the individual is low. Mature coconuts can also build up toxic ama by interfering with digestion. If large quantities of this variety are consumed daily, then a person can suffer hyperacidity, and worse still, elevated cholesterol levels.
Therefore, people who have low agni or digestive power are not advised to eat mature coconut, unless it is combined with ingredients that balance its negative properties. In the south of India, for instance, says The Council, a popular way to eat coconut is in the form of chutney. Combined with healthful ingredients like roasted chickpea flour, curry leaves, mustard seeds, and oil, the coconut is used in smaller quantities, and can actually be beneficial.
The Key To Eating Coconuts
The Council points out that if you understand the samyoga and samskara of coconuts: that is, the right ways to choose, combine, process, and prepare them, then you can extract the maximum benefit from this healing fruit.
In general, tender and middle aged coconuts are good for almost anyone. But if you’re a kapha-dominated person and drink coconut water at night, then it will make you feel so cool and heavy that your kapha dosha will go out of gear, causing all sorts of health problems. Ayurvedic literature is full of praise for the tender coconut. Ayurveda’s revered ancient healer, Sushruta, noted that tender coconuts are “bal maans prada” in nature. That is, they strengthen muscle, the cardiovascular system, and the seven body tissues. Middle-aged coconuts are also said to possess these healing properties. Both kinds help cleanse the urinary tract.
The Council of Maharishi Ayurveda Physicians quotes Charaka, who is widely credited as being the founding father of ayurveda, as having observed that tender and half-mature coconuts have “bringhan, snigdha, seetani, balyani, madurani ” properties. Which means they increase the quantity and quality of all 7 tissues, they are vata-pacifying in nature because of their unctuous qualities, they cool and strengthen, and are filled with sweetness. To this, Bhav Mishra adds that “komal narikelam nihanti pitta jwar pitta dosha.” That is, the tender coconut helps get rid of any heat related to pitta aggravation, and alleviates any pitta-related disorders.
17 Reasons You Should Love Tender Coconut
There is much to love about the tender coconut: There are times when your body fills up with pitta-charged ama-visha (toxic matter). This causes the ph levels in the deeper digestive system to fall, leading to severe hyperacidity or amla pitta. That’s when the coconut can step in to heal. Because it is anuloman in nature-capable of getting all the toxins and Vata to move downward and helping to move pitta and purify the digestive system of it-tender coconut balances acid levels and cools the system. This makes it superior to other herbs and fruits that can cool down pitta, but do not flush it out of the system.
Ayurveda considers coconut a natural stress-buster.
Coconut cools sadhaka pitta, which is associated with emotions.
Combined with spices like cinnamon, cardamom, ginger, cloves, cumin, coriander, and turmeric, coconut is not only delicious and versatile, but also heals the digestive system and promotes better metabolism.
The juice of tender coconut has been billed “the world’s safest natural soft drink” for being a nutritious thirst-quencher.
Combined with poppy seeds and ghee, coconut can help you sleep better! For the complete recipe, visit the recipes section.
Coconut has keshya properties — that is, it improves hair quality. In Southern India, women apply coconut oil to their hair every day-which gives them long, lustrous locks.
Coconut is good for curing stomach disorders related to aggravation of pitta dosha.
Due to its soma-enhancing or nurturing value, coconut heals hot flashes and restores emotional stability in menopausal women.
Coconut improves the complexion. You can make coconut-based skin packs at home. The Council suggests mixing coconut oil with oatmeal powder and a little bit of lavender flower powder to make a soothing facial pack.
A burning sensation in hands and feet is cooled down by drinking coconut water/milk. All you have to do is make a paste of crushed middle aged coconut and apply it on hands and feet.
Coconut is traditionally considered a wound healer, especially effective at preventing the formation of scars if applied topically.
Hiccups due to pitta are also eased by coconut water.
If you have urine retention from heat, then coconut water helps. Similarly, liver problems, such as inflammation, are also soothed by drinking tender coconut water.
There is a word called karshan meaning “that which supports the body to stay slim by enhancing fat metabolism.” The Council of Maharishi Ayurveda Physicians says recent research suggests that coconut is good for burning fat and lowering cholesterol- and it is clearly written in ayurveda that the oil has karshan properties.
Coconut helps detoxify and flush toxins out of the body.
It is delicious!
Coconut Cooking Basics
You can drink the liquid that comes out of a coconut, but don’t use it in cooking. Fresh coconut is always best, but if it is not readily available, you can generally find good quality dried, grated coconut and coconut chips in natural food stores. Use the unsweetened type, which is free of chemical ingredients. Tender coconuts, or ones with pulp and water, are generally available at oriental groceries. Slash off the top with a sharp knife (the store will sometimes help open coconuts), insert a straw, and enjoy!Use coconut milk the same day-make it fresh each time. Grate fresh coconut and blend with a little warm water. Squeeze to get the rich first extraction. Add more water re-blend and squeeze again to get a thinner second extraction.
Strain.
The sweltering days of summer are ideal for cooking-and cooling-with coconut.
We hope you will try different ways to enjoy this nourishing, cooling food.
Saturday, 4 August 2007
20 Simple Ways To Live Ayurveda
Publication: mapi.com
Author: Unknown
1. Schedule a walk with a friend or co-worker. Ayurveda considers walking a tridoshic exercise: it balances all three doshas without putting excessive strain on your body. It calms the mind and nourishes the senses.
2. Create a fresh lunch. Foods that are processed, canned, frozen or packaged are harder to digest, and thus create ama. Also, because they are old, denatured by processing, or include harmful ingredients such as chemical preservatives, they no longer contain nature’s intelligence. Rather, they create ama and block nature’s intelligence from reaching the cells. Just for today, make the effort to eat a fresh, warm lunch. Eat in a settled, quiet atmosphere and focus on your food when you eat.
3. Drink a glass of water. Water flushes out accumulated ama or toxins, and keeps the digestion smooth. Sipped throughout the day, water is an excellent healer.
4. Drink a glass of milk. At the end of a tiring day, when you cannot seem to close your eyes, don’t be frustrated: drink a glass of warm milk. Milk should be organic and free of additives, and boiled with a pinch of cardamom before it is drunk in order to make it easier to digest. Drink it alone, away from meals, to avoid indigestion.
5. Sit down and close your eyes. Take a “just-for-me” break right now, right here. Disconnect from the outer world and tune in to your own self. Even if you do this for a minute, you will feel healed. Practitioners of Transcendental Meditation® say their daily 20-minute sadhana helps conquer stress and increase positive energy and a sense of well-being.
6. Sip herb tea. All-natural, caffeine-free teas prepared from nature’s healing herbs are a perfect way to relax and recharge: choose from among Maharishi Ayurveda’s wide range of gourmet beverages to pick the flavor and blend that suits your unique dosha type and your needs.
7. Massage your body. The skin thirsts for your touch and attention. When warm herbalized oil is rubbed gently all over the skin, your body and your mind feel pampered and relaxed. Treat your skin to the magic of massage today. For step-by-step instructions on doing self-massage or Abhyanga, visit Steps for Abhyanga. With over twenty powerful botanicals working synergistically, the Youthful Skin Massage Oil for Men or Women is especially formulated to nourish, rehydrate and heal the skin.
8. Call a friend. People whose company makes us feel happy and loved are like medicine: they heal and restore us. Keeping in touch with such people nurtures our own hearts.
9. Make your own skin-pack. Ayurvedic healers recommend using totally natural products on your skin: preferably those ingredients that are also safe to eat. Choose from among foods like honey, rose water, cucumber, oatmeal, ground blanched almonds, milk, and yogurt to prepare packs that will exfoliate, cleanse, and moisturize your skin. At Maharishi Ayurveda, we take the definition of all-natural even a step further. All-natural actually relates to the ability to protect nature’s own intelligence in a product. Not only do we use completely natural ingredients, we make sure that the techniques used to process those ingredients are such that they do not destroy the natural benefits.
10. Breathe deep. Mindful breathing improves the flow of oxygen and other vital nutrients to the tiniest channels of the body, giving you an instant sense of well-being.
11. Go to bed early. Ayurvedic physicians emphasize and re-emphasize the value of good sleep, simply because rest is the basis of dynamic activity. If you have been suffering from sleep imbalances, turn to Maharishi Ayurveda’s Blissful Sleep formula. Made from some of the most healing herbs in nature, Blissful Sleep will bring you quality rest without any side-effects. Deep Rest is for people who wake up feeling energetic between two and four a.m.
12. Rise with the sun. This will be easy to do if you go to bed before 10 p.m. Waking up early gives you time to concentrate on your morning ablutions, and to prepare a good, nourishing breakfast. In addition, it gives you time to enjoy the early morning calm of nature.
13. Have a good breakfast. Skipping breakfast particularly irritates sadhaka pitta, a subdosha of pitta. An imbalanced sadhaka pitta can result in irritability and unsettled emotions. Some suggestions for breakfast: cooked apples, eaten first thing in the morning, help to create “ojas”–the final and most refined by-product of digestion. Ojas contributes to enhanced vitality, strength, immunity, and overall well-being. Sweet juicy fruits are excellent cleansers–they help to eliminate impurities from the body. According to ayurveda, it is recommended that fruits be eaten first thing in the morning, 30 minutes before other breakfast items such as hot cereal.
14. Care for your hair: When your locks are limp and lifeless, your whole approach to life can turn pessimistic. Counter the problem by paying attention to what you put inside your body. Build small changes into your daily menu. Instead of popcorn, eat fresh fruit. Don’t snack on candy: eat soaked blanched almonds instead. Read Maharishi Ayurveda’s Flavors of Health newsletter for hundreds of ideas on fresh ways to cook with fruits, vegetables and spices.
15. Detoxify: From time to time, follow an ama -reducing diet. Periodic internal cleansing with a Maharishi Ayurveda detox formulation such as Elim-Tox-O also helps flush the ama out and prevent more from building up.
Here is an ama -reducing spice water recipe from our ayurvedic expert, co-author of The Answer to Cancer:
Ama Pachana Spice Water
To make the water, boil two quarts of water and put it in a thermos flask. Then add two to three thin slices of fresh ginger, 1/4 tsp. cumin, 1/4 tsp. fennel, 2 black peppercorns, and 2 leaves of mint. Let it steep. Drink this water throughout the day for a very purifying effect. Also, this ama pachana water will help enhance your digestion.
16. Decorate your dining table. Make each meal a celebration. A pleasant table, set with sparkling cutlery, crisp clean napkins, and appetizing colors whets the appetite and promotes good digestion.
17. Boost your immunity with Amrit. Amrit epitomizes the ayurvedic principles of sanyog–precise combination–and sanskar–meticulous processing. Forty-four rare whole herbs and fruits are combined in precise proportions in this powerful formula to create synergy–a whole that is more powerful than the sum of its parts.
18. Spice up your dinner plate. Turmeric, cumin, coriander, fennel, cardamom — these and other spices used in ayurvedic cooking add not only aroma and flavor, but also healing goodness to your food. Turmeric is an antiseptic, cumin aids digestion, coriander cleanses the system, fennel settles the stomach and cardamom cools the system. Discover the health benefits of spices: start with Maharishi Ayurveda’s Churnas: precisely blended spices that calm the doshas. Spices add good flavor and have a yogavahi property, which means that they support digestion and make the nutrients easily available to the body.
19. Bond with nature: When you spend time with flowers, butterflies, and trees, you connect in the most intimate way with the earth: of which ayurveda believes we are all an integral part. This sense of connection is tremendously soothing, particularly for those of us who are under stress.
20. See a vaidya. At any given time, most of us do have small or big imbalances in our physiology. Even small imbalances can lead to discomfort and malaise. A vaidya will help you understand and correct your imbalances: see one even if you are not feeling particularly unwell.
Author: Unknown
1. Schedule a walk with a friend or co-worker. Ayurveda considers walking a tridoshic exercise: it balances all three doshas without putting excessive strain on your body. It calms the mind and nourishes the senses.
2. Create a fresh lunch. Foods that are processed, canned, frozen or packaged are harder to digest, and thus create ama. Also, because they are old, denatured by processing, or include harmful ingredients such as chemical preservatives, they no longer contain nature’s intelligence. Rather, they create ama and block nature’s intelligence from reaching the cells. Just for today, make the effort to eat a fresh, warm lunch. Eat in a settled, quiet atmosphere and focus on your food when you eat.
3. Drink a glass of water. Water flushes out accumulated ama or toxins, and keeps the digestion smooth. Sipped throughout the day, water is an excellent healer.
4. Drink a glass of milk. At the end of a tiring day, when you cannot seem to close your eyes, don’t be frustrated: drink a glass of warm milk. Milk should be organic and free of additives, and boiled with a pinch of cardamom before it is drunk in order to make it easier to digest. Drink it alone, away from meals, to avoid indigestion.
5. Sit down and close your eyes. Take a “just-for-me” break right now, right here. Disconnect from the outer world and tune in to your own self. Even if you do this for a minute, you will feel healed. Practitioners of Transcendental Meditation® say their daily 20-minute sadhana helps conquer stress and increase positive energy and a sense of well-being.
6. Sip herb tea. All-natural, caffeine-free teas prepared from nature’s healing herbs are a perfect way to relax and recharge: choose from among Maharishi Ayurveda’s wide range of gourmet beverages to pick the flavor and blend that suits your unique dosha type and your needs.
7. Massage your body. The skin thirsts for your touch and attention. When warm herbalized oil is rubbed gently all over the skin, your body and your mind feel pampered and relaxed. Treat your skin to the magic of massage today. For step-by-step instructions on doing self-massage or Abhyanga, visit Steps for Abhyanga. With over twenty powerful botanicals working synergistically, the Youthful Skin Massage Oil for Men or Women is especially formulated to nourish, rehydrate and heal the skin.
8. Call a friend. People whose company makes us feel happy and loved are like medicine: they heal and restore us. Keeping in touch with such people nurtures our own hearts.
9. Make your own skin-pack. Ayurvedic healers recommend using totally natural products on your skin: preferably those ingredients that are also safe to eat. Choose from among foods like honey, rose water, cucumber, oatmeal, ground blanched almonds, milk, and yogurt to prepare packs that will exfoliate, cleanse, and moisturize your skin. At Maharishi Ayurveda, we take the definition of all-natural even a step further. All-natural actually relates to the ability to protect nature’s own intelligence in a product. Not only do we use completely natural ingredients, we make sure that the techniques used to process those ingredients are such that they do not destroy the natural benefits.
10. Breathe deep. Mindful breathing improves the flow of oxygen and other vital nutrients to the tiniest channels of the body, giving you an instant sense of well-being.
11. Go to bed early. Ayurvedic physicians emphasize and re-emphasize the value of good sleep, simply because rest is the basis of dynamic activity. If you have been suffering from sleep imbalances, turn to Maharishi Ayurveda’s Blissful Sleep formula. Made from some of the most healing herbs in nature, Blissful Sleep will bring you quality rest without any side-effects. Deep Rest is for people who wake up feeling energetic between two and four a.m.
12. Rise with the sun. This will be easy to do if you go to bed before 10 p.m. Waking up early gives you time to concentrate on your morning ablutions, and to prepare a good, nourishing breakfast. In addition, it gives you time to enjoy the early morning calm of nature.
13. Have a good breakfast. Skipping breakfast particularly irritates sadhaka pitta, a subdosha of pitta. An imbalanced sadhaka pitta can result in irritability and unsettled emotions. Some suggestions for breakfast: cooked apples, eaten first thing in the morning, help to create “ojas”–the final and most refined by-product of digestion. Ojas contributes to enhanced vitality, strength, immunity, and overall well-being. Sweet juicy fruits are excellent cleansers–they help to eliminate impurities from the body. According to ayurveda, it is recommended that fruits be eaten first thing in the morning, 30 minutes before other breakfast items such as hot cereal.
14. Care for your hair: When your locks are limp and lifeless, your whole approach to life can turn pessimistic. Counter the problem by paying attention to what you put inside your body. Build small changes into your daily menu. Instead of popcorn, eat fresh fruit. Don’t snack on candy: eat soaked blanched almonds instead. Read Maharishi Ayurveda’s Flavors of Health newsletter for hundreds of ideas on fresh ways to cook with fruits, vegetables and spices.
15. Detoxify: From time to time, follow an ama -reducing diet. Periodic internal cleansing with a Maharishi Ayurveda detox formulation such as Elim-Tox-O also helps flush the ama out and prevent more from building up.
Here is an ama -reducing spice water recipe from our ayurvedic expert, co-author of The Answer to Cancer:
Ama Pachana Spice Water
To make the water, boil two quarts of water and put it in a thermos flask. Then add two to three thin slices of fresh ginger, 1/4 tsp. cumin, 1/4 tsp. fennel, 2 black peppercorns, and 2 leaves of mint. Let it steep. Drink this water throughout the day for a very purifying effect. Also, this ama pachana water will help enhance your digestion.
16. Decorate your dining table. Make each meal a celebration. A pleasant table, set with sparkling cutlery, crisp clean napkins, and appetizing colors whets the appetite and promotes good digestion.
17. Boost your immunity with Amrit. Amrit epitomizes the ayurvedic principles of sanyog–precise combination–and sanskar–meticulous processing. Forty-four rare whole herbs and fruits are combined in precise proportions in this powerful formula to create synergy–a whole that is more powerful than the sum of its parts.
18. Spice up your dinner plate. Turmeric, cumin, coriander, fennel, cardamom — these and other spices used in ayurvedic cooking add not only aroma and flavor, but also healing goodness to your food. Turmeric is an antiseptic, cumin aids digestion, coriander cleanses the system, fennel settles the stomach and cardamom cools the system. Discover the health benefits of spices: start with Maharishi Ayurveda’s Churnas: precisely blended spices that calm the doshas. Spices add good flavor and have a yogavahi property, which means that they support digestion and make the nutrients easily available to the body.
19. Bond with nature: When you spend time with flowers, butterflies, and trees, you connect in the most intimate way with the earth: of which ayurveda believes we are all an integral part. This sense of connection is tremendously soothing, particularly for those of us who are under stress.
20. See a vaidya. At any given time, most of us do have small or big imbalances in our physiology. Even small imbalances can lead to discomfort and malaise. A vaidya will help you understand and correct your imbalances: see one even if you are not feeling particularly unwell.
12 Tips to Relieve Constipation
Publication: Ayurvedahc.com
Author: Dr T.R. Shantala Priyadarshini
1. Include more fruits in your daily diet helps (grapes-lemon-apples-banana-oranges etc.)
2. Chew each morsel of food 30-40 times before swallowing
3. Eat steamed freshly bought vegetables. Green leafy veggies may be balanced for Vayu doshas by cooking with ginger, cumin, coriander and asafetida.
4. Drink a glass of water upon waking, just after visiting bathroom
5. Dry fruits like raisins, dates or figs to be soaked overnight and eaten in the morning.
6. Eat papaya before or after meals is helpful not only in relieving constipation but also helps you look young.
7. Lemon juice squeezed in a cup of hot water with a pinch of salt to be taken early morning ?daily
8. One hour before your wakening time drink 1-2 cups of saline hot water and then go back to bed again ?this helps clear your bowels
9. Adding 1-2 spoons of castor oil to milk and drinking it daily at bedtime helps
10. Avoid eating lot of spices, fried food, frozen food and food/drinks with preservatives, don’t suppress natural urges.
11. Squat for 10 minutes first thing in morning to relieve gas and stimulate apana Vayu (downward air movement) to induce urge to pass stool. Twist the upper torso from side to side to trigger energy points on the lower belly for the same goal.
12. Then squat on toilet or place feet on small step bench when attempting to pass stool.
Author: Dr T.R. Shantala Priyadarshini
1. Include more fruits in your daily diet helps (grapes-lemon-apples-banana-oranges etc.)
2. Chew each morsel of food 30-40 times before swallowing
3. Eat steamed freshly bought vegetables. Green leafy veggies may be balanced for Vayu doshas by cooking with ginger, cumin, coriander and asafetida.
4. Drink a glass of water upon waking, just after visiting bathroom
5. Dry fruits like raisins, dates or figs to be soaked overnight and eaten in the morning.
6. Eat papaya before or after meals is helpful not only in relieving constipation but also helps you look young.
7. Lemon juice squeezed in a cup of hot water with a pinch of salt to be taken early morning ?daily
8. One hour before your wakening time drink 1-2 cups of saline hot water and then go back to bed again ?this helps clear your bowels
9. Adding 1-2 spoons of castor oil to milk and drinking it daily at bedtime helps
10. Avoid eating lot of spices, fried food, frozen food and food/drinks with preservatives, don’t suppress natural urges.
11. Squat for 10 minutes first thing in morning to relieve gas and stimulate apana Vayu (downward air movement) to induce urge to pass stool. Twist the upper torso from side to side to trigger energy points on the lower belly for the same goal.
12. Then squat on toilet or place feet on small step bench when attempting to pass stool.
Shatavari: An Ayurvedic Herb for Women
Publication: ayurvedahc.com
Author: Raghvendra Dubey
In India, Shatavari is considered the women’s equivalent to Ashwagandha. The name translates to “she who possesses 100 husbands”, referring to the herbs rejuvenative effect upon the female reproductive organs. This sweet and bitter herb best known as a female rejuvenative having effects on the female reproductive system
Shatavari helps in restoring (natural healing) the damaged metabolism/cells/system on human body and helps it in faster recovery. Shatavari is also known as natural coolant of body having anti-inflammatory qualities. This herb is known to increase sattwa, or positivity and healing power. It also enhances the feelings of spiritual love, and increases ojas. Shatavari also helps in treating ulcers and acidity related complaints.
Healing qualities of Shatavari are very effective on the female reproductive system related problems. It helps in minimizing the women’s complaints related to menstrual cycles (Shatavari minimizes the pain, controls the loss of blood and other fluids during menstrual cycle) and balancing the female hormonal system. It also helps in decreasing the inflammation of female sexual organs, in fighting tiredness and morning sickness, helps in problems related to infertility, leucorrhea, and in regulating ovulation etc, which occur during the menopause cycle. Those women, who face problems of hot flashes, they should try combination of Shatavari and Kama Duba.
Shatavari is used as an ingredient in herbal mixtures, which fight against impotence, weakness in sexual activities and sexual organs, inflammation of sexual organs, and a condition called Spermatorrhea.
Shatavari contains a chemical composition, which is diuretic in nature, and helps in fighting infectious conditions such as bladder infections, intestinal infections etc. Because of its properties, Shatavari is used in dysentery, cystitis and such internal infection conditions.
Along with all the above uses, Shatavari is also used in treatment of chronic fever, dehydration, inflammation of internal walls of the heart and lungs, etc. Combination of Shatavari and other herbs is also used to treat ailments and other problems.
Latin Name: Asparagus racemosus
Family: Asparagaceae
Synonym: Shatavari, Indian Asparagus, Hundred Roots, Asparagus roots, Tian men dong
Doshas: Vata, Pitta. Shatavari helps in treating (balancing) ‘Pitta dosha’.
Parts Used : Roots (Rhizomes) and leaves.
Geographical Source: Grows in low jungles areas throughout India.
Properties: Nutritive tonic, rejuvenative, aphrodisiac, galactogogue, laxative, antispasmodic, antacid, diuretic, antitumor, demulcent, powerful anabolic.
Uses
- Good for eyes, muscles, reproductive organs, increases milk secretion and helps to regain vigour and vitality.
- Useful for infertility, impotence and general sexual debility, decreased libido, threatened miscarriage, menopause, leucorrhea, and has the ability to balance pH in the cervical area.
- Used to treat gastrointestinal disorders (eg. Hyperacidity, stomach ulcers, diarrhea.) and as an external wash for wounds.
- Useful in cases of bronchitis and chronic fevers. It is believed to bring into balance all of the body’s fluids.
- Nourishes and cleanses the blood and the female reproductive organs.
- Used in for those who have had hysterectomies, as it supplies many female hormones. It nourishes the ovum and increases fertility.
Author: Raghvendra Dubey
In India, Shatavari is considered the women’s equivalent to Ashwagandha. The name translates to “she who possesses 100 husbands”, referring to the herbs rejuvenative effect upon the female reproductive organs. This sweet and bitter herb best known as a female rejuvenative having effects on the female reproductive system
Shatavari helps in restoring (natural healing) the damaged metabolism/cells/system on human body and helps it in faster recovery. Shatavari is also known as natural coolant of body having anti-inflammatory qualities. This herb is known to increase sattwa, or positivity and healing power. It also enhances the feelings of spiritual love, and increases ojas. Shatavari also helps in treating ulcers and acidity related complaints.
Healing qualities of Shatavari are very effective on the female reproductive system related problems. It helps in minimizing the women’s complaints related to menstrual cycles (Shatavari minimizes the pain, controls the loss of blood and other fluids during menstrual cycle) and balancing the female hormonal system. It also helps in decreasing the inflammation of female sexual organs, in fighting tiredness and morning sickness, helps in problems related to infertility, leucorrhea, and in regulating ovulation etc, which occur during the menopause cycle. Those women, who face problems of hot flashes, they should try combination of Shatavari and Kama Duba.
Shatavari is used as an ingredient in herbal mixtures, which fight against impotence, weakness in sexual activities and sexual organs, inflammation of sexual organs, and a condition called Spermatorrhea.
Shatavari contains a chemical composition, which is diuretic in nature, and helps in fighting infectious conditions such as bladder infections, intestinal infections etc. Because of its properties, Shatavari is used in dysentery, cystitis and such internal infection conditions.
Along with all the above uses, Shatavari is also used in treatment of chronic fever, dehydration, inflammation of internal walls of the heart and lungs, etc. Combination of Shatavari and other herbs is also used to treat ailments and other problems.
Latin Name: Asparagus racemosus
Family: Asparagaceae
Synonym: Shatavari, Indian Asparagus, Hundred Roots, Asparagus roots, Tian men dong
Doshas: Vata, Pitta. Shatavari helps in treating (balancing) ‘Pitta dosha’.
Parts Used : Roots (Rhizomes) and leaves.
Geographical Source: Grows in low jungles areas throughout India.
Properties: Nutritive tonic, rejuvenative, aphrodisiac, galactogogue, laxative, antispasmodic, antacid, diuretic, antitumor, demulcent, powerful anabolic.
Uses
- Good for eyes, muscles, reproductive organs, increases milk secretion and helps to regain vigour and vitality.
- Useful for infertility, impotence and general sexual debility, decreased libido, threatened miscarriage, menopause, leucorrhea, and has the ability to balance pH in the cervical area.
- Used to treat gastrointestinal disorders (eg. Hyperacidity, stomach ulcers, diarrhea.) and as an external wash for wounds.
- Useful in cases of bronchitis and chronic fevers. It is believed to bring into balance all of the body’s fluids.
- Nourishes and cleanses the blood and the female reproductive organs.
- Used in for those who have had hysterectomies, as it supplies many female hormones. It nourishes the ovum and increases fertility.
Friday, 3 August 2007
Neem: An Ancient Cure for a Modern World
The Neem tree ( Azadirachta indica ) has been known as the wonder tree for centuries in the Indian subcontinent. It has become important in the global context today because it offers answers to the major concerns facing mankind. The history of the Neem tree is inextricably linked to the history of the Indian way of life. Although the antiquity of Neem is shrouded in the mists of time, this evergreen robust looking tree has long been cherished as a symbol of health in the country of its origin. It has, for a very long time, been a friend and protector of the Indian villager. Brihat Samhita, an ancient Hindu treatise, contains a chapter of verses on plant medicines. It contains recommendations for specific trees to be planted in the vicinity of one’s house. Neem was highly recommended.
The Tree
Neem is a medium sized to large tree characterised by its short straight trunk, furrowed dark brown to grey bark, and dense rounded crowns of pinnate leaves. Native to India, Neem is widely planted and naturalised in semiarid areas throughout Asia and Africa. Neem is an evergreen of the tropics and sub-tropics. It belongs to the family Meliaccae and is a cousin of the Chinaberry. With an extensive and deep root system, the hardy Neem can grow luxuriantly even in marginal and leached soils, and thrives up to an elevation of 1500m. The Neem flowers profusely between February and May. The honey-scented white flowers, found in clusters, are a good source of nectar for bees. Neem fruits are green drupes which turn golden yellow on ripening in the months of June, July and August, in India. The kernels have about 45% oil. The termite resistant Neem timber is used as a building material, and in making furniture and farm implements. The bark yields tannin and gum. The amber hued gum is used as a dye in textiles and in traditional medicines.
Medical Properties
The medical properties of Neem have been known to Indians since time immemorial. The earliest Sanskrit medical writings refer to the benefits of Neem’s fruits, seeds, oil, leaves, roots and bark. Each has been used in the Indian Ayurvedic and Unani systems of medicines, and is now being used in the manufacture of modern day medicinals, cosmetics, toiletries and pharmaceuticals. Neem fruits, seeds, oil, leaves, bark and roots have such uses as general antiseptics, antimicrobials, treatment of urinary disorders, diarrhoea, fever and bronchitis, skin diseases, septic sores, infected burns, hypertension and inflammatory diseases. This is mainly due to the chemical constituents which enable Neem to protect itself from a multitude of pests by a substantial number of pesticidal ingredients. Its main chemical composition is a blend of 3 to 4 related compounds along with over 20 lesser ones, which are equally as active. The general class of these compounds is triterpenes and within this category, the most effective are the limonoids, which are abundant in Neem oil. At least nine limonoids are effective in inhibiting insect growth, especially some of the most deadly varieties found in human health and agriculture worldwide. Of these limonoids, azadirachitin has been found to be the main ingredient for fighting insects and pests, being up to 90% effective in most instances. It repels and disrupts the life cycle, however does not kill immediately, but is nonetheless one of the most effective growth and feeding deterrents ever examined. Meliantriol is another feeding inhibitor which prevents locusts chewing, and has therefore been in traditional use in India for crop protection. Nimbin and nimbidin, also found in Neem, have anti-viral properties and these have been effective in inhibiting fungal growth on humans and animals. Gedunin, a lesser limonoid, is effective in treating malaria through teas and infusion of the leaves.
Fungicides
Neem has proved effective against certain fungi that infect the human body. Such fungi are an increasing problem and have been difficult to control by synthetic fungicides. For example, in one laboratory study, conducted by Khan and Wassilew – 1987, Neem preparations showed toxicity to cultures of 14 common fungi, including members of the following genera:• Trichophyton – an ‘athlete’s foot’ fungus that infects hair, skin and nails;• Epidermophyton – a ‘ringworm’ that invades both skin and nails of the feet;• Microsporum – a ‘ringworm’ that invades hair, skin and (rarely) nails;• Trichosporon – a fungus of the intestinal tract;• Geotrichum – a yeast like fungus that causes infections of the bronchi, lungs and mucous membranes;• Candida – a yeast-like fungus that is part of the normal flora but can get out of control, leading to lesions in mouth (thrush), vagina, skin, hands and lungs.
Components of the Neem tree and their uses Bark
The bark is cool, bitter, astringent, acrid and refrigerant. It is useful in tiredness, cough, fever, loss of appetite, worm infestations. It heals wounds and is also used in vomiting, skin diseases and excessive thirst. Twigs have been used as a ‘toothbrush’ and for dental care, since antiquity. Neem toothpaste has been on sale in the US and Germany for some time, and is now available here.
Leaves
According to Ayurveda, Neem leaves help in the treatment of Vatik disorders (neuromuscular pains). Neem leaves are also reported to remove toxins, purify blood and prevent damage caused by free radicals in the body by neutralising them.A paste made with leaves is used in India for the cure of chicken pox, smallpox and warts. A poultice is effective for boils, ulcers and eczema.
Fruits
Neem fruits are bitter, purgative, antihemorrhodial and anthelmintic (vermifuge) in nature.
Flowers
The flowers are used in vitiated conditions of pitta (balancing of the body heat) and kapha (cough formation). They are astringent, anthelmintic and non toxic.
Seeds
Neem seeds are also described as anthelmintic, antileprotic (cures or prevents leprosy) and antipoisonous. Seeds, along with leaves and dry Neem cake, are an active ingredient in mosquito coils.
Oil
Neem oil, derived from crushing the seeds, is antidermatonic, a powerful vermifuge and is bitter in taste. It has a wide spectrum of action and is highly medicinal in nature. As an oil used in aromatherapy, it has been effective in the treatment of head lice in children, especially where tea tree has failed to clear up the condition. This was particularly noticeable on an outbreak of head lice, two years ago, at a school local to my practice, where I treated several children. Those with blonde to reddish hair had their head lice condition cleared up much quicker with Neem oil applied at a 3% dilution to a shampoo base, than with tea tree.
Specific uses of Neem
Skin Conditions
Neem has an almost magical effect on chronic skin conditions that fail to respond to conventional treatments. Acne, psoriasis, eczema, and ringworm are conditions that are effectively treated by a Neem preparation.
Hair and Nails
Scalp conditions like dandruff, scaling and even hair loss improve with Neem products. Yellow or brittle nails, caused by the presence of yeast or fungi, are normalised by the use of Neem.
Teeth and Gums
Neem mouth rinse is very effective in the treatment of infections, tooth decay, bleeding and sore gums. A mouthwash, using Neem oil, has been used at my practice for the treatment of mouth ulcers.
Fungi, Parasites and Viruses
Stringent laboratory condition tests have proved the efficacy of Neem in destroying fungi, parasites and viruses without killing off beneficial intestinal flora. It is very effective in the treatment of Athletes’ Foot, thrush, candida infestations and herpes.
Heart and Blood
A recent study showed that a Neem treatment lowered high cholesterol levels. It has also been tested, with good results, for other heart conditions.
Insects
Neem is a very effective insect repellent, without being toxic to pets and humans.
Tests are currently being carried out, with encouraging results. During the course of the freedom movement in India, led by Mahatma Gandhi, there was an upsurge of the ‘Swadeshi’ or nationalistic sentiment. This led to a move to encourage ‘Swadeshi’ science. Neem research in India was part of this movement. Pioneering work on the possible commercial use of Neem oil and cake was done by the Indian Institute of Science in Bangalore during the 1920s.
Mahatma Gandhi kept the tradition of Neem alive, and is known to have been a firm believer in the goodness of Neem. Dr Ekaid informed Gandhi that laboratory experiments revealed that Neem leaves contain more nutritious elements than any other similar vegetation that has been subjected to chemical analysis earlier. A Neem leaf chutney was a part of Gandhi’s everyday diet. A nutraceutical tea, now being manufactured, would surely have been Gandhi’s favourite beverage.
Physico-composition of Fresh Neem Leaves: Neem Tea and its Uses
Tender leaves, along with black pepper, are effective in intestinal helminthiasis (parasitic infections). An aqueous extract of tender leaves has been found to possess antiviral properties against vaccinia (viral disease in cattle), variola (smallpox), fowl pox and New Castle diseases. Fresh mature leaves, along with the seeds of Psoralea corglifolia and Cicer arietinum are effective in leucoderma. Studies on plasma clotting time using Russell’s viper venom have proved that the leaf extract contains a clotting inhibitor, justifying its use in the treatment of poisonous bites. Animal-based experiments have shown that total extract of Neem leaves is a potent hepatoprotective agent. Water extract of Neem leaves shows significant antiulcer activity and reduction in severity of gastric damage, and prevents most cell degranulation and mucus depletion. The phosphate buffer, ether and alcoholic extracts of the leaves inhibit the activity of the micro-organism Micrococcus pyrogenes var. aureus. The essential oil possesses anti-bacterial activity. It inhibits the growth of Mycobacterium tuberculosis, Salmonella paratyphi, Salmonelbtyphi, Vibrio cholera Pacini and Klebsiella pneumonia (Schroter) Trevisan (organisms which cause typhoid, cholera and pneumonia. Chewing fresh Neem leaves acts as a sedative and relaxant.
The Future with Neem
Poverty
Today’s exploding growth in human population is seriously depleting the world’s natural reserves and economic resources. Unless the run-away human population growth rate is slowed down, there would be little hope for raising everyone out of poverty in the developing world. Besides educational constraints, the non-availability of inexpensive methods of contraception, which do not cause trauma or aesthetic, cultural, and religious sensitivities of people, limit the success of birth regulation programmes. However, recent findings indicate that some Neem derivatives may serve as affordable and widely available contraceptives. A recent controlled study in the Indian army proved the efficacy of Neem as a contraceptive. According to a recent report by the Washington based International Food Policy Research Institute, by 2020, the world will be an even more unfair place than it is at present, with food surpluses in the industrialised world and with chronic instability and food shortages in the south, particularly in African countries. The US Academy of Sciences currently attaches very high importance to the Neem tree. The United Nations declared Neem as the “Tree of the 21st Century”.
Bioactivity
Search for environmentally safe pesticides received an impetus in early 1960s following the publication of Silent Spring by Rachel Carson in 1962. It was around this period that Indian scientists reported the feeding deterrent property of Neem seed kernel suspension against desert locust. Subsequently, several bioactive ingredients were isolated from various parts of the tree, more notable being the isolation of meliantriol and azadirachtin. These findings aroused world-wide interest in the bioactivity of the Neem tree. The Neem seems to be a virtual designer tree – tailor-made for combating the serious problems confronting mankind today. The information being generated on it in the modern format of science continues to confirm all the ancient claims. Its mammalian safety and environmental friendliness reports are highly encouraging. Its bioactivity spectrum against the harmful organisms is ever increasing. Neem is now widely used in America in fields ranging from pharmaceutical, health and beauty, pet care, pesticides and insecticides, and agriculture, while health and beauty and pharmaceutical products are available in Austria and Germany. Neem products are also available in the UK and a nutraceutical tea is the newest product to come on the market. A key advantage to using Neem, as opposed to some medical treatments and other herbs, is its compliance with the first tenet of the Hippocratic Oath taken by all physicians: “First, cause no harm.” Over thousands of years, Neem has been used by hundreds of millions of people and no hazards have been documented for normal dosages. Only at very high levels may Neem be toxic, something each of us understands can be true of anything taken internally.
The Tree
Neem is a medium sized to large tree characterised by its short straight trunk, furrowed dark brown to grey bark, and dense rounded crowns of pinnate leaves. Native to India, Neem is widely planted and naturalised in semiarid areas throughout Asia and Africa. Neem is an evergreen of the tropics and sub-tropics. It belongs to the family Meliaccae and is a cousin of the Chinaberry. With an extensive and deep root system, the hardy Neem can grow luxuriantly even in marginal and leached soils, and thrives up to an elevation of 1500m. The Neem flowers profusely between February and May. The honey-scented white flowers, found in clusters, are a good source of nectar for bees. Neem fruits are green drupes which turn golden yellow on ripening in the months of June, July and August, in India. The kernels have about 45% oil. The termite resistant Neem timber is used as a building material, and in making furniture and farm implements. The bark yields tannin and gum. The amber hued gum is used as a dye in textiles and in traditional medicines.
Medical Properties
The medical properties of Neem have been known to Indians since time immemorial. The earliest Sanskrit medical writings refer to the benefits of Neem’s fruits, seeds, oil, leaves, roots and bark. Each has been used in the Indian Ayurvedic and Unani systems of medicines, and is now being used in the manufacture of modern day medicinals, cosmetics, toiletries and pharmaceuticals. Neem fruits, seeds, oil, leaves, bark and roots have such uses as general antiseptics, antimicrobials, treatment of urinary disorders, diarrhoea, fever and bronchitis, skin diseases, septic sores, infected burns, hypertension and inflammatory diseases. This is mainly due to the chemical constituents which enable Neem to protect itself from a multitude of pests by a substantial number of pesticidal ingredients. Its main chemical composition is a blend of 3 to 4 related compounds along with over 20 lesser ones, which are equally as active. The general class of these compounds is triterpenes and within this category, the most effective are the limonoids, which are abundant in Neem oil. At least nine limonoids are effective in inhibiting insect growth, especially some of the most deadly varieties found in human health and agriculture worldwide. Of these limonoids, azadirachitin has been found to be the main ingredient for fighting insects and pests, being up to 90% effective in most instances. It repels and disrupts the life cycle, however does not kill immediately, but is nonetheless one of the most effective growth and feeding deterrents ever examined. Meliantriol is another feeding inhibitor which prevents locusts chewing, and has therefore been in traditional use in India for crop protection. Nimbin and nimbidin, also found in Neem, have anti-viral properties and these have been effective in inhibiting fungal growth on humans and animals. Gedunin, a lesser limonoid, is effective in treating malaria through teas and infusion of the leaves.
Fungicides
Neem has proved effective against certain fungi that infect the human body. Such fungi are an increasing problem and have been difficult to control by synthetic fungicides. For example, in one laboratory study, conducted by Khan and Wassilew – 1987, Neem preparations showed toxicity to cultures of 14 common fungi, including members of the following genera:• Trichophyton – an ‘athlete’s foot’ fungus that infects hair, skin and nails;• Epidermophyton – a ‘ringworm’ that invades both skin and nails of the feet;• Microsporum – a ‘ringworm’ that invades hair, skin and (rarely) nails;• Trichosporon – a fungus of the intestinal tract;• Geotrichum – a yeast like fungus that causes infections of the bronchi, lungs and mucous membranes;• Candida – a yeast-like fungus that is part of the normal flora but can get out of control, leading to lesions in mouth (thrush), vagina, skin, hands and lungs.
Components of the Neem tree and their uses Bark
The bark is cool, bitter, astringent, acrid and refrigerant. It is useful in tiredness, cough, fever, loss of appetite, worm infestations. It heals wounds and is also used in vomiting, skin diseases and excessive thirst. Twigs have been used as a ‘toothbrush’ and for dental care, since antiquity. Neem toothpaste has been on sale in the US and Germany for some time, and is now available here.
Leaves
According to Ayurveda, Neem leaves help in the treatment of Vatik disorders (neuromuscular pains). Neem leaves are also reported to remove toxins, purify blood and prevent damage caused by free radicals in the body by neutralising them.A paste made with leaves is used in India for the cure of chicken pox, smallpox and warts. A poultice is effective for boils, ulcers and eczema.
Fruits
Neem fruits are bitter, purgative, antihemorrhodial and anthelmintic (vermifuge) in nature.
Flowers
The flowers are used in vitiated conditions of pitta (balancing of the body heat) and kapha (cough formation). They are astringent, anthelmintic and non toxic.
Seeds
Neem seeds are also described as anthelmintic, antileprotic (cures or prevents leprosy) and antipoisonous. Seeds, along with leaves and dry Neem cake, are an active ingredient in mosquito coils.
Oil
Neem oil, derived from crushing the seeds, is antidermatonic, a powerful vermifuge and is bitter in taste. It has a wide spectrum of action and is highly medicinal in nature. As an oil used in aromatherapy, it has been effective in the treatment of head lice in children, especially where tea tree has failed to clear up the condition. This was particularly noticeable on an outbreak of head lice, two years ago, at a school local to my practice, where I treated several children. Those with blonde to reddish hair had their head lice condition cleared up much quicker with Neem oil applied at a 3% dilution to a shampoo base, than with tea tree.
Specific uses of Neem
Skin Conditions
Neem has an almost magical effect on chronic skin conditions that fail to respond to conventional treatments. Acne, psoriasis, eczema, and ringworm are conditions that are effectively treated by a Neem preparation.
Hair and Nails
Scalp conditions like dandruff, scaling and even hair loss improve with Neem products. Yellow or brittle nails, caused by the presence of yeast or fungi, are normalised by the use of Neem.
Teeth and Gums
Neem mouth rinse is very effective in the treatment of infections, tooth decay, bleeding and sore gums. A mouthwash, using Neem oil, has been used at my practice for the treatment of mouth ulcers.
Fungi, Parasites and Viruses
Stringent laboratory condition tests have proved the efficacy of Neem in destroying fungi, parasites and viruses without killing off beneficial intestinal flora. It is very effective in the treatment of Athletes’ Foot, thrush, candida infestations and herpes.
Heart and Blood
A recent study showed that a Neem treatment lowered high cholesterol levels. It has also been tested, with good results, for other heart conditions.
Insects
Neem is a very effective insect repellent, without being toxic to pets and humans.
Tests are currently being carried out, with encouraging results. During the course of the freedom movement in India, led by Mahatma Gandhi, there was an upsurge of the ‘Swadeshi’ or nationalistic sentiment. This led to a move to encourage ‘Swadeshi’ science. Neem research in India was part of this movement. Pioneering work on the possible commercial use of Neem oil and cake was done by the Indian Institute of Science in Bangalore during the 1920s.
Mahatma Gandhi kept the tradition of Neem alive, and is known to have been a firm believer in the goodness of Neem. Dr Ekaid informed Gandhi that laboratory experiments revealed that Neem leaves contain more nutritious elements than any other similar vegetation that has been subjected to chemical analysis earlier. A Neem leaf chutney was a part of Gandhi’s everyday diet. A nutraceutical tea, now being manufactured, would surely have been Gandhi’s favourite beverage.
Physico-composition of Fresh Neem Leaves: Neem Tea and its Uses
Tender leaves, along with black pepper, are effective in intestinal helminthiasis (parasitic infections). An aqueous extract of tender leaves has been found to possess antiviral properties against vaccinia (viral disease in cattle), variola (smallpox), fowl pox and New Castle diseases. Fresh mature leaves, along with the seeds of Psoralea corglifolia and Cicer arietinum are effective in leucoderma. Studies on plasma clotting time using Russell’s viper venom have proved that the leaf extract contains a clotting inhibitor, justifying its use in the treatment of poisonous bites. Animal-based experiments have shown that total extract of Neem leaves is a potent hepatoprotective agent. Water extract of Neem leaves shows significant antiulcer activity and reduction in severity of gastric damage, and prevents most cell degranulation and mucus depletion. The phosphate buffer, ether and alcoholic extracts of the leaves inhibit the activity of the micro-organism Micrococcus pyrogenes var. aureus. The essential oil possesses anti-bacterial activity. It inhibits the growth of Mycobacterium tuberculosis, Salmonella paratyphi, Salmonelbtyphi, Vibrio cholera Pacini and Klebsiella pneumonia (Schroter) Trevisan (organisms which cause typhoid, cholera and pneumonia. Chewing fresh Neem leaves acts as a sedative and relaxant.
The Future with Neem
Poverty
Today’s exploding growth in human population is seriously depleting the world’s natural reserves and economic resources. Unless the run-away human population growth rate is slowed down, there would be little hope for raising everyone out of poverty in the developing world. Besides educational constraints, the non-availability of inexpensive methods of contraception, which do not cause trauma or aesthetic, cultural, and religious sensitivities of people, limit the success of birth regulation programmes. However, recent findings indicate that some Neem derivatives may serve as affordable and widely available contraceptives. A recent controlled study in the Indian army proved the efficacy of Neem as a contraceptive. According to a recent report by the Washington based International Food Policy Research Institute, by 2020, the world will be an even more unfair place than it is at present, with food surpluses in the industrialised world and with chronic instability and food shortages in the south, particularly in African countries. The US Academy of Sciences currently attaches very high importance to the Neem tree. The United Nations declared Neem as the “Tree of the 21st Century”.
Bioactivity
Search for environmentally safe pesticides received an impetus in early 1960s following the publication of Silent Spring by Rachel Carson in 1962. It was around this period that Indian scientists reported the feeding deterrent property of Neem seed kernel suspension against desert locust. Subsequently, several bioactive ingredients were isolated from various parts of the tree, more notable being the isolation of meliantriol and azadirachtin. These findings aroused world-wide interest in the bioactivity of the Neem tree. The Neem seems to be a virtual designer tree – tailor-made for combating the serious problems confronting mankind today. The information being generated on it in the modern format of science continues to confirm all the ancient claims. Its mammalian safety and environmental friendliness reports are highly encouraging. Its bioactivity spectrum against the harmful organisms is ever increasing. Neem is now widely used in America in fields ranging from pharmaceutical, health and beauty, pet care, pesticides and insecticides, and agriculture, while health and beauty and pharmaceutical products are available in Austria and Germany. Neem products are also available in the UK and a nutraceutical tea is the newest product to come on the market. A key advantage to using Neem, as opposed to some medical treatments and other herbs, is its compliance with the first tenet of the Hippocratic Oath taken by all physicians: “First, cause no harm.” Over thousands of years, Neem has been used by hundreds of millions of people and no hazards have been documented for normal dosages. Only at very high levels may Neem be toxic, something each of us understands can be true of anything taken internally.
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