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.
Saturday, 4 August 2007
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.
Insomniacs Turn to Mind-body Techniques and Herbal Therapies
Publication: Los Angeles Times
Author: HILARY E. MACGREGOR
Whether meditating before bed or sipping a kava kava nightcap, more than 1.6 million Americans use some form of alternative medicine when they have trouble sleeping.
In analyzing data from 31,000 Americans interviewed for the 2002 National Health Interview Survey, researchers found that nearly one-fifth of adults reported difficulty sleeping in the last 12 months, and of those, about 5 percent used complementary and alternative medicine to treat their sleeplessness. The majority of those who tried the therapies said they helped, with nearly half saying they helped “a great deal.”
Nearly 65 percent of people using alternative methods to help them sleep used “biological therapies,” such as herbs or supplements, and 39 percent used “mind-body therapies,” such as self-hypnosis, guided imagery or other relaxation techniques.
The report, published in the Archives of Internal Medicine, was part of a larger look at U.S. sleep habits. Researchers also found a strong connection between reports of insomnia or sleep troubles and other health conditions, such as obesity, hypertension, congestive heart failure and anxiety or depression.
Although the report didn’t rank the popularity of specific herbal or behavioral remedies, doctors who recommend complementary and alternative medicine said some therapies — such as melatonin, kava kava and valerian — can be effective in treating sleep problems and are typically safer than sleep drugs.
Dr. Jay Udani, who runs the Integrative Medicine Program at the Northridge Hospital Medical Center, said he would recommend anyone with sleep problems start with mind-body techniques such as self-hypnosis, meditation or guided imagery. If that were not sufficient, he might recommend mind-body techniques combined with an herbal remedy — and melatonin would be his first choice. Even a low dose (1 to 5 milligrams) of melatonin can be effective, he says.
But doctors cautioned against mixing sleep-inducing herbs or supplements with sleep drugs. Consumers should talk with their physicians first, they said.
Author: HILARY E. MACGREGOR
Whether meditating before bed or sipping a kava kava nightcap, more than 1.6 million Americans use some form of alternative medicine when they have trouble sleeping.
In analyzing data from 31,000 Americans interviewed for the 2002 National Health Interview Survey, researchers found that nearly one-fifth of adults reported difficulty sleeping in the last 12 months, and of those, about 5 percent used complementary and alternative medicine to treat their sleeplessness. The majority of those who tried the therapies said they helped, with nearly half saying they helped “a great deal.”
Nearly 65 percent of people using alternative methods to help them sleep used “biological therapies,” such as herbs or supplements, and 39 percent used “mind-body therapies,” such as self-hypnosis, guided imagery or other relaxation techniques.
The report, published in the Archives of Internal Medicine, was part of a larger look at U.S. sleep habits. Researchers also found a strong connection between reports of insomnia or sleep troubles and other health conditions, such as obesity, hypertension, congestive heart failure and anxiety or depression.
Although the report didn’t rank the popularity of specific herbal or behavioral remedies, doctors who recommend complementary and alternative medicine said some therapies — such as melatonin, kava kava and valerian — can be effective in treating sleep problems and are typically safer than sleep drugs.
Dr. Jay Udani, who runs the Integrative Medicine Program at the Northridge Hospital Medical Center, said he would recommend anyone with sleep problems start with mind-body techniques such as self-hypnosis, meditation or guided imagery. If that were not sufficient, he might recommend mind-body techniques combined with an herbal remedy — and melatonin would be his first choice. Even a low dose (1 to 5 milligrams) of melatonin can be effective, he says.
But doctors cautioned against mixing sleep-inducing herbs or supplements with sleep drugs. Consumers should talk with their physicians first, they said.
Australian Women Are Catching On To The Ancient Indian Medical System of Ayurveda.
Publication: NEWS.com.au
Author: Lollie Barr
We’re always on the lookout for the latest, greatest technological marvel that will make us even more gorgeous. But looking into the past can also have its rewards, which explains the rising popularity of Ayurveda, the 5000-year-old medical system of India.
Spas across the nation are offering Ayurvedic rejuvenation and healing therapies, and there are now several Ayurvedic skin- and hair-care ranges on the market. What distinguishes Ayurvedic therapy from the high-tech is its natural approach.
Ayurvedic products contain no artificial colours, fragrances, animal ingredients, petrochemicals, propylene or sulphates. “Ayurvedic products are based on the premise that nothing should be applied to the skin or hair, that cannot be taken internally,” says Yasmin Sadikot, founder of the OmVeda skin- and hair-care range.
So what is Ayurveda?
This ancient science of health and medicine is based on the belief that physical, emotional and spiritual wellbeing are interdependent. According to the philosophy of Ayurveda, there are three fundamental mind/body types, or doshas, called vata, pitta and kapha, and each one embodies different combinations of the five elements: fire, water, air, earth and ether.
“The three doshas govern the activities of the mind and body, and determine the physical characteristics, emotional and mental tendencies of every human. While all three doshas occur in everyone, most people have a predominant tendency towards one or more doshas,” says Ayurvedic doctor, Dr Ajit, from Ayurda skincare.
In keeping with this theory, the first step is to determine your Ayurvedic skin type. Describing the three skin types, Dr Ajit says that dry, rough, malnourished skin that is susceptible to dullness and wrinkles is vata (air and space) dominant skin, which has a tendency towards dark marks, freckles and blemishes.
Pitta skin (fire and water) tends to be reddish, oily and moist, with a propensity to be sensitive and inflammatory, and have blackheads, pimples, acne, redness and variations in pigmentation, while kapha skin (water and earth), described as thick, smooth, soft, heavy and saggy, is prone to cellulite, whiteheads and water retention.
Herbal healing
The key to getting the most out of your Ayurvedic beauty regime is to use a combination of products that balance your doshas. “Vata skin requires nourishment, while sensitive pitta skin requires smooth, cold, astringent applications,” Dr Ajit says, “and kapha skin requires light, dry and hot substances to create a balance.”
The balance is achieved by using a combination of herbs, flowers, leaves, woods and oils of plants such as rose, sandalwood and turmeric, along with traditional Indian medicinal plants such as neem. “These herbs have specific and positive effects on the skin,” Dr Ajit says.
“For example, neem has blood-purifying qualities, as well as helping to repair damaged tissue and increase blood flow on the surface, thus it helps to reduce wrinkles and improve skin texture.” Other Ayurvedic treatments involve body oils (fabulous for dry skin), scrubs that use nuts, masks, shampoos and hair oils.
Ayurveda in the spa
Reading the ingredients on an Ayurvedic spa menu - milk, eggs, yoghurt, carrots, mangoes and potatoes - can make you feel hungry. “The nutrient action of the herbs is enhanced by the addition of fresh ingredients,” Sadikot says.
One of the most popular Ayurvedic treatments is shirodhara, which involves having a continuous, warm stream of sesame oil poured slowly over the centre of your forehead, followed by a head massage.
Ayurvedic massages, using delicious-smelling herbal oils that are matched to your skin type, concentrate on your body’s major pressure points, relaxing the muscles and toning and nourishing the skin.
Beauty from the inside out
In addition to using Ayurvedic products on your skin, Dr Ajit also recommends adopting the holistic mind, body and spirit philosophies of Ayurveda. “We talk about how your external beauty is a reflection of your inner health,” he says. “Your skin is a true indication of what is happening on the inside.”
Specific Ayurvedic regimes are designed to achieve a balance of the physical and mental. “Eating fresh food, controlling our emotions, avoiding processed food and focusing on staying calm will complement and assist in achieving great skin,” Dr Ajit says.
Ancient beauty secrets
1. A 15- to 20-minute self-massage with warm sesame oil every morning will improve the lymphatic and circulatory systems.
2. Scraping your tongue with a tongue scraper can get rid of toxins on your tongue.
3. Mix chickpea flour with yoghurt, a pinch of turmeric and rose water for a natural exfoliator.
4. Warm up and chill out in a ginger bath. Place a few tablespoons of freshly grated ginger root in a sock or a piece of cheesecloth, and tie it to the tap as you run the bath so that warm water runs over it.
Which skin type are you?
Vata: Small body frame, variable appetite, good short-term memory, changing moods and thoughts, nervous tendencies, creative and artistic.
Pitta: Medium build, strong appetite, overly assertive and aggressive, highly organised, intelligent, good orator.
Kapha: Big boned, thick and strong, tendency to not be very active, steady and reliable, compassionate, forgiving.
Author: Lollie Barr
We’re always on the lookout for the latest, greatest technological marvel that will make us even more gorgeous. But looking into the past can also have its rewards, which explains the rising popularity of Ayurveda, the 5000-year-old medical system of India.
Spas across the nation are offering Ayurvedic rejuvenation and healing therapies, and there are now several Ayurvedic skin- and hair-care ranges on the market. What distinguishes Ayurvedic therapy from the high-tech is its natural approach.
Ayurvedic products contain no artificial colours, fragrances, animal ingredients, petrochemicals, propylene or sulphates. “Ayurvedic products are based on the premise that nothing should be applied to the skin or hair, that cannot be taken internally,” says Yasmin Sadikot, founder of the OmVeda skin- and hair-care range.
So what is Ayurveda?
This ancient science of health and medicine is based on the belief that physical, emotional and spiritual wellbeing are interdependent. According to the philosophy of Ayurveda, there are three fundamental mind/body types, or doshas, called vata, pitta and kapha, and each one embodies different combinations of the five elements: fire, water, air, earth and ether.
“The three doshas govern the activities of the mind and body, and determine the physical characteristics, emotional and mental tendencies of every human. While all three doshas occur in everyone, most people have a predominant tendency towards one or more doshas,” says Ayurvedic doctor, Dr Ajit, from Ayurda skincare.
In keeping with this theory, the first step is to determine your Ayurvedic skin type. Describing the three skin types, Dr Ajit says that dry, rough, malnourished skin that is susceptible to dullness and wrinkles is vata (air and space) dominant skin, which has a tendency towards dark marks, freckles and blemishes.
Pitta skin (fire and water) tends to be reddish, oily and moist, with a propensity to be sensitive and inflammatory, and have blackheads, pimples, acne, redness and variations in pigmentation, while kapha skin (water and earth), described as thick, smooth, soft, heavy and saggy, is prone to cellulite, whiteheads and water retention.
Herbal healing
The key to getting the most out of your Ayurvedic beauty regime is to use a combination of products that balance your doshas. “Vata skin requires nourishment, while sensitive pitta skin requires smooth, cold, astringent applications,” Dr Ajit says, “and kapha skin requires light, dry and hot substances to create a balance.”
The balance is achieved by using a combination of herbs, flowers, leaves, woods and oils of plants such as rose, sandalwood and turmeric, along with traditional Indian medicinal plants such as neem. “These herbs have specific and positive effects on the skin,” Dr Ajit says.
“For example, neem has blood-purifying qualities, as well as helping to repair damaged tissue and increase blood flow on the surface, thus it helps to reduce wrinkles and improve skin texture.” Other Ayurvedic treatments involve body oils (fabulous for dry skin), scrubs that use nuts, masks, shampoos and hair oils.
Ayurveda in the spa
Reading the ingredients on an Ayurvedic spa menu - milk, eggs, yoghurt, carrots, mangoes and potatoes - can make you feel hungry. “The nutrient action of the herbs is enhanced by the addition of fresh ingredients,” Sadikot says.
One of the most popular Ayurvedic treatments is shirodhara, which involves having a continuous, warm stream of sesame oil poured slowly over the centre of your forehead, followed by a head massage.
Ayurvedic massages, using delicious-smelling herbal oils that are matched to your skin type, concentrate on your body’s major pressure points, relaxing the muscles and toning and nourishing the skin.
Beauty from the inside out
In addition to using Ayurvedic products on your skin, Dr Ajit also recommends adopting the holistic mind, body and spirit philosophies of Ayurveda. “We talk about how your external beauty is a reflection of your inner health,” he says. “Your skin is a true indication of what is happening on the inside.”
Specific Ayurvedic regimes are designed to achieve a balance of the physical and mental. “Eating fresh food, controlling our emotions, avoiding processed food and focusing on staying calm will complement and assist in achieving great skin,” Dr Ajit says.
Ancient beauty secrets
1. A 15- to 20-minute self-massage with warm sesame oil every morning will improve the lymphatic and circulatory systems.
2. Scraping your tongue with a tongue scraper can get rid of toxins on your tongue.
3. Mix chickpea flour with yoghurt, a pinch of turmeric and rose water for a natural exfoliator.
4. Warm up and chill out in a ginger bath. Place a few tablespoons of freshly grated ginger root in a sock or a piece of cheesecloth, and tie it to the tap as you run the bath so that warm water runs over it.
Which skin type are you?
Vata: Small body frame, variable appetite, good short-term memory, changing moods and thoughts, nervous tendencies, creative and artistic.
Pitta: Medium build, strong appetite, overly assertive and aggressive, highly organised, intelligent, good orator.
Kapha: Big boned, thick and strong, tendency to not be very active, steady and reliable, compassionate, forgiving.
Ayurvedic Massage
Publication: Ayushveda.com
Author: Unknown
Ayurveda, the ancient science of perfect health, comes from the highly developed Vedic civilization and has been practised in India for thousands of years. The Ayurvedic texts describe a wealth of treatments for maintaining and promoting good health by creating inner balance and re-establishing connection with the body’s inner intelligence. Abhyanga, a whole-body oil massage done before the morning shower or bath, is regarded as one of the most important one of these procedures.
ABHYANGA -
Abhyanga is not very complicate to perform and easy to integrate into ones daily routine. It produces so many positive effects that soon you will not want to miss it. Charak Samhita, a major Ayurvedic text says that oil massage the human body becomes strong and smooth-skinned; it gains resistance to exhaustion and exertion. One who applies the (sesame) oil on his head regularly does not suffer from headache, baldness, greying of hair. , His sense organs work properly; the skin of his face becomes brightened; applying the oil on the head produces sound sleep and happiness´; traditions also maintains that muscles, tissues and joints are lubricated and flexibility increased.
The abhyanga can be done standing or sitting. The method is as follows:
The oil is taken slightly warmer to the body temperature and then used.
Start by massaging the head. Place a small amount of oil on the scalp and massage the scalp vigorously. Use the open palms of the hands and the flat surfaces of the fingers rather than the fingertips for the whole massage. The stroke should be circular, describing small circles. Spend more time on the head than on other parts of the body, because it has marmas points, which influences all the other parts.
Massage the face and outer part of the ears, using the fingers. Massaging the ears is also said to influence the whole body, so give them some extra time, too, but don’t massage them vigorously. At this point, you may want to smear oil over the rest of the body: This will give the maximum time for the oil to penetrate the skin.
Massage the front and back of the neck, and the upper part of the back. Remember to use the open palm and flat surfaces of the fingers, not the fingertips.
Next, massage the arms vigorously. For the joints use a circular motion, and for the long bones a straight motion.
Now do the chest and stomach. Be less vigorous here. Use a circular motion over the pectoral areas, and a very gentle, vertical motion over the breastbone and solar plexus. Use a very gentle circular motion over the abdomen, moving clockwise, the direction the large intestine move in (top, to the left, bottom, to the right).
Massage the back and spine - or what you can reach of it - vigorously.
Massage with some force on the legs in the same way you did the arms: straight on the bones, circular on the joints.
Last but not least, massage the feet. The soles of the feet are said to have marma points that connect to the rest of the body, so give extra time and attention to them. Once again use the palm or the open flat of the hand, and massage vigorously.
The ideal length of a daily abhyanga is 10 to 20 minutes, but even only 2 or 3 minutes is very beneficial (priorities are head and feet).
Be careful about getting oil over your bathroom floor. If your bathroom is carpeted, we suggest that you protect it with an inexpensive floor mat, or some disposable covering.
If you have a cold or flu or problems with digestion abhyanga is not recommended.
After your massage take a shower or bath.
Thursday, 2 August 2007
Cooking With The Mung Bean - The Ayurvedic Way
Publication: boloji.com
Author: Shreelata Suresh
If your concept of including mung in your diet means topping off a salad with a few bean sprouts, think again. Mung beans, and their split, hulled version, mung dhal, can be used to create main dishes, salads, soups, spreads, savories, beverages and desserts. Mung beans combine well with a host of grains and flours, vegetables and greens, tart fruit, other sprouts, spices and herbs, and even rice, soy or nut milks.
Mung or moong beans (Phaseolus aureus) are small cylindrical beans with a bright green skin and yellow insides. They are eaten whole, split with skins on, split and hulled as mung dhal, or sprouted. They are used extensively in both Indian and Chinese cooking.
Ayurvedic healers consider the mung bean valuable because it is highly nutritious and delivers sustenance while being easier on the digestion that most other beans. When cooked to butter-soft consistency and combined with digestion-enhancing herbs and spices, mung beans can be digested even by the recuperating, the very old and the very young, and individuals with a weak digestive fire. Mung beans offer the astringent and sweet tastes, are cooling for the physiology, light and soft. When cooked with appropriate herbs and spices, mung beans are balancing for all the doshas.
From the modern nutrition perspective, mung beans offer protein and dietary fiber, and are a source of phytoestrogens. They also contain vitamins A, C and E, folacin, phosphorus, magnesium, iron and calcium.
Buying and Storing Mung Beans
Mung beans are available at Asian groceries, health food stores, online and even some supermarkets. When buying whole mung beans, look for whole, unbroken beans of uniform size and rich color, with unbroken skins. Store the beans in clean airtight jars in a cool, dark place. Buy no more than what will last you for about a month. Older beans take longer to cook and produce more flatulence.
If you buy your mung sprouts, look for fresh, crisp sprouts without brown stains or marks. Prepare and eat the mung sprouts as soon as you can after purchase, definitely the same day. You can also sprout mung beans at home.
Preparing
Dry mung beans and dhals can contain small twigs, stones and other foreign material. Spread out the beans or dhal on a white serving dish and pick them over carefully before use. Also pick out and discard any discolored or shriveled beans.
Dry beans and dhals should be washed thoroughly in several changes of water before use. Discard any that float on top of the water.
Cooking
Dried mung dhal does not generally require pre-soaking. Whole mung beans are cooked both without soaking and after soaking. Mung dhal and beans can be cooked in a pressure cooker, in a slow cooker or on the stovetop. If cooking on the stovetop, foam that builds at the top can be skimmed off and discarded. Dhals generally have the best flavor when they are slow-cooked for a long time. In all cases, cook beans until completely tender.
Combining with Other Foods
Mung beans can be combined with brown or white rice, cracked wheat or oatmeal to make a one-dish meal known as khicharee. They can also be cooked to a soupy texture with lots of water and spices. Stews and soups that combine mung beans or mung dhal with a wide variety of greens and vegetables and grains such as barley are also common. Mung dhal flour can be combined with whole wheat flour to make fresh flatbreads on a griddle.
Cook mung beans with lots of herbs and spices. Fresh ginger, basil, cilantro, rosemary, sage, thyme, parsley, curry leaves and tarragon, fresh garlic, lemon juice, and spices such as turmeric, cayenne, ajwain, cumin, coriander, garam masala, black pepper and bay leaf go wonderfully with mung dhal or mung beans.
Recipes
Here are some mung recipes from our Ayurvedic Mung Bean Recipes e-booklet available for purchase.
Basic Mung Dhal
1/2 cup split hulled mung beans (mung or moong dhal)
3-4 cups water
Rock salt to taste
1 tsp - 1 tbsp ghee (clarified butter) (use less ghee for Kapha)
1/2 tsp cumin seeds
1/8 tsp turmeric
Sort and wash the dhal. Drain. In a heavy-bottomed pot, add the washed dhal, turmeric and 3 cups water. Bring to a boil; then turn heat down to medium/low and simmer-cook until dhal is butter-soft (about 30-40 minutes). Stir occasionally to prevent sticking, and add more water as needed to maintain desired consistency. If foam forms on the surface, skim it off and discard. When cooked, add salt and stir. In a separate pan, heat ghee until melted to a clear oil. Add the cumin seeds and stir to release aroma. The cumin should turn a rich dark brown but not burn. Pour the ghee-spice mixture carefully over the dhal. Stir and serve immediately with boiled Basmati rice or other whole grain and vegetables. (In a thinner consistency, this dhal can be drunk as a nourishing soup-beat with a metal whisk to a smooth consistency and heat through).
Bitter Greens, Mung Sprouts, Avocado and Orange Salad
1 cup baby spinach leaves
1 cup mixed bitter greens (arugula, dandelion, watercress etc.)
1 cup fresh mung sprouts, cut in half
1 cup orange sections, deseeded
1/2 cup diced avocado
1 tbsp soaked walnut bits, soaked for 15 minutes in warm water
2 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
1 tbsp lemon juice
1 tsp lemon zest
Rock salt to taste
Fresh cracked black pepper to taste
1 tbsp tahini
1/2 tsp minced fresh ginger
Heat one tbsp of the oil in a skillet. Toss in the spinach leaves and mung sprouts and stir briefly to wilt the spinach leaves. Remove to a bowl and cool. Add the mixed bitter greens, orange and avocado. In another bowl, briskly whisk together the lemon juice, rest of the olive oil, lemon zest, salt, pepper, ginger and tahini. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss to coat. Garnish with the chopped walnuts and serve immediately.
Note: If using garlic, add to the oil in the skillet before you add the spinach. About 1/2 tsp minced garlic would be plenty.
Mung Bean/Herb Spread
1/2 cup mung dhal
2 tbsp almond butter or tahini
1 tsp minced ginger
1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
1 tbsp chopped fresh basil
1 tbsp mild olive oil
1/4 tsp ground cumin
Rock salt to taste
1 tbsp lemon juice
Fresh-cracked black pepper to taste or large pinch sweet paprika
1-2 tbsps water if needed
Heat a skillet and dry-roast the mung dhal until golden brown, about 10-12 minutes. Stir constantly to toast all sides and prevent burning. Grind to a coarse flour in a spice-mill. Combine all the ingredients in a food processor and process to a smooth, spreadable paste, adjusting the water as necessary. Tastes excellent on crisp toast or crackers, on flatbread wedges or as a dip for vegetables.
Note: If using garlic, add one medium clove, peeled, to the ingredients.
Author: Shreelata Suresh
If your concept of including mung in your diet means topping off a salad with a few bean sprouts, think again. Mung beans, and their split, hulled version, mung dhal, can be used to create main dishes, salads, soups, spreads, savories, beverages and desserts. Mung beans combine well with a host of grains and flours, vegetables and greens, tart fruit, other sprouts, spices and herbs, and even rice, soy or nut milks.
Mung or moong beans (Phaseolus aureus) are small cylindrical beans with a bright green skin and yellow insides. They are eaten whole, split with skins on, split and hulled as mung dhal, or sprouted. They are used extensively in both Indian and Chinese cooking.
Ayurvedic healers consider the mung bean valuable because it is highly nutritious and delivers sustenance while being easier on the digestion that most other beans. When cooked to butter-soft consistency and combined with digestion-enhancing herbs and spices, mung beans can be digested even by the recuperating, the very old and the very young, and individuals with a weak digestive fire. Mung beans offer the astringent and sweet tastes, are cooling for the physiology, light and soft. When cooked with appropriate herbs and spices, mung beans are balancing for all the doshas.
From the modern nutrition perspective, mung beans offer protein and dietary fiber, and are a source of phytoestrogens. They also contain vitamins A, C and E, folacin, phosphorus, magnesium, iron and calcium.
Buying and Storing Mung Beans
Mung beans are available at Asian groceries, health food stores, online and even some supermarkets. When buying whole mung beans, look for whole, unbroken beans of uniform size and rich color, with unbroken skins. Store the beans in clean airtight jars in a cool, dark place. Buy no more than what will last you for about a month. Older beans take longer to cook and produce more flatulence.
If you buy your mung sprouts, look for fresh, crisp sprouts without brown stains or marks. Prepare and eat the mung sprouts as soon as you can after purchase, definitely the same day. You can also sprout mung beans at home.
Preparing
Dry mung beans and dhals can contain small twigs, stones and other foreign material. Spread out the beans or dhal on a white serving dish and pick them over carefully before use. Also pick out and discard any discolored or shriveled beans.
Dry beans and dhals should be washed thoroughly in several changes of water before use. Discard any that float on top of the water.
Cooking
Dried mung dhal does not generally require pre-soaking. Whole mung beans are cooked both without soaking and after soaking. Mung dhal and beans can be cooked in a pressure cooker, in a slow cooker or on the stovetop. If cooking on the stovetop, foam that builds at the top can be skimmed off and discarded. Dhals generally have the best flavor when they are slow-cooked for a long time. In all cases, cook beans until completely tender.
Combining with Other Foods
Mung beans can be combined with brown or white rice, cracked wheat or oatmeal to make a one-dish meal known as khicharee. They can also be cooked to a soupy texture with lots of water and spices. Stews and soups that combine mung beans or mung dhal with a wide variety of greens and vegetables and grains such as barley are also common. Mung dhal flour can be combined with whole wheat flour to make fresh flatbreads on a griddle.
Cook mung beans with lots of herbs and spices. Fresh ginger, basil, cilantro, rosemary, sage, thyme, parsley, curry leaves and tarragon, fresh garlic, lemon juice, and spices such as turmeric, cayenne, ajwain, cumin, coriander, garam masala, black pepper and bay leaf go wonderfully with mung dhal or mung beans.
Recipes
Here are some mung recipes from our Ayurvedic Mung Bean Recipes e-booklet available for purchase.
Basic Mung Dhal
1/2 cup split hulled mung beans (mung or moong dhal)
3-4 cups water
Rock salt to taste
1 tsp - 1 tbsp ghee (clarified butter) (use less ghee for Kapha)
1/2 tsp cumin seeds
1/8 tsp turmeric
Sort and wash the dhal. Drain. In a heavy-bottomed pot, add the washed dhal, turmeric and 3 cups water. Bring to a boil; then turn heat down to medium/low and simmer-cook until dhal is butter-soft (about 30-40 minutes). Stir occasionally to prevent sticking, and add more water as needed to maintain desired consistency. If foam forms on the surface, skim it off and discard. When cooked, add salt and stir. In a separate pan, heat ghee until melted to a clear oil. Add the cumin seeds and stir to release aroma. The cumin should turn a rich dark brown but not burn. Pour the ghee-spice mixture carefully over the dhal. Stir and serve immediately with boiled Basmati rice or other whole grain and vegetables. (In a thinner consistency, this dhal can be drunk as a nourishing soup-beat with a metal whisk to a smooth consistency and heat through).
Bitter Greens, Mung Sprouts, Avocado and Orange Salad
1 cup baby spinach leaves
1 cup mixed bitter greens (arugula, dandelion, watercress etc.)
1 cup fresh mung sprouts, cut in half
1 cup orange sections, deseeded
1/2 cup diced avocado
1 tbsp soaked walnut bits, soaked for 15 minutes in warm water
2 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
1 tbsp lemon juice
1 tsp lemon zest
Rock salt to taste
Fresh cracked black pepper to taste
1 tbsp tahini
1/2 tsp minced fresh ginger
Heat one tbsp of the oil in a skillet. Toss in the spinach leaves and mung sprouts and stir briefly to wilt the spinach leaves. Remove to a bowl and cool. Add the mixed bitter greens, orange and avocado. In another bowl, briskly whisk together the lemon juice, rest of the olive oil, lemon zest, salt, pepper, ginger and tahini. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss to coat. Garnish with the chopped walnuts and serve immediately.
Note: If using garlic, add to the oil in the skillet before you add the spinach. About 1/2 tsp minced garlic would be plenty.
Mung Bean/Herb Spread
1/2 cup mung dhal
2 tbsp almond butter or tahini
1 tsp minced ginger
1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
1 tbsp chopped fresh basil
1 tbsp mild olive oil
1/4 tsp ground cumin
Rock salt to taste
1 tbsp lemon juice
Fresh-cracked black pepper to taste or large pinch sweet paprika
1-2 tbsps water if needed
Heat a skillet and dry-roast the mung dhal until golden brown, about 10-12 minutes. Stir constantly to toast all sides and prevent burning. Grind to a coarse flour in a spice-mill. Combine all the ingredients in a food processor and process to a smooth, spreadable paste, adjusting the water as necessary. Tastes excellent on crisp toast or crackers, on flatbread wedges or as a dip for vegetables.
Note: If using garlic, add one medium clove, peeled, to the ingredients.
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