Gurukula Blog

Skin Diseases of Adolescence

2012-01-23T01:47:59Z

by Alakananda Devi (Alakananda Ma), M.B., B.S. (Lond.)

Adolescence represents a time of the greatest change humans experience during their lifetime--the dramatic shift from childhood to adulthood, with all the attendant reproductive capabilities. At one end of adolescence is an innocent child and at the other end a fully grown man or woman. This dramatic time of transformation effects doshic changes that, more often than not, lead to the skin diseases of adolescence, acne vulgaris and keratosis pilaris.

Puberty, the defining event of adolescence, consists of a number of phases of hormonal change that bring to an end the kapha time of life and usher in the pitta time. The first change, occurring about a year before puberty proper, is adrenarche, the maturation of the adrenal cortex, signalled by the appearance of pubic and axillary hair. Adrenarche involves production of the adrenal androgen dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate (DHEA-S). With DHEA-S to stimulate androgen production, gonadarche or maturation of the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis (HPG axis) occurs about one year later. The rapid changes of this time provoke vata while the onset of the pitta time of life with its attendant androgens can lead to a state of pitta provocation that endures until the body's physiology learns to adapt to its new, adult state.

Skin diseases of adolescence affect upward of 85% of all adolescents in varying degrees of severity. Acne vulgaris is a nearly universal skin disease afflicting 79% to 95% of the adolescent population in Westernized societies (1,2), while keratosis pilaris affects 50-80% of all adolescents. Appearance is extremely important to adolescents, who may suffer intensely due to even a benign or harmless skin condition. To make matters worse, severe acne may leave scars that are permanently disfiguring. Another pitta condition that soars during adolescence is suicidal depression, which may be exacerbated both by the disfigurement of a facial skin disorder as well as by some of the prescription medications given for these conditions (3).

]]> Keratosis pilaris (KP), often described as chicken skin, is a genetic disorder of keratinization of hair follicles of the skin. This benign condition is extremely common, manifesting as small, rough bumps, usually with a hair in the middle. It occurs chiefly in the outer-upper arms and thighs as well as the face. KP is a rasa gati vata condition often described in association with other dry skin conditions such as ichthyosis vulgaris, (dry scaly skin) xerosis, (dry skin ) and, less commonly, with atopic dermatitis or eczema. A variant form, keratosis pilaris rubra, shows pitta involvement as the bumps are erythematous (red and inflamed). Although harmless in nature, KP can be distressing, especially when it occurs on the face. There is no biomedical treatment for this condition. There appears to be a hormonal component to this condition, since it is especially common during the hormonal changes of adolescence.

Acne vulgaris is a well known plague of adolescence, occurring in the areas of skin with the densest population of sebaceous follicles-- the face, upper chest and back. Acne can be classified into three categories: comedonal, inflammatory and nodulocystic. (4) Comedonal acne consists predominantly of open or closed comedones (blackheads and whiteheads) with little or no accompanying inflammation. Inflammatory acne is characterized by erythematous papules and pustule, although comedones may also be present. This form of acne represents a higher level of pitta provocation in rasa dhatu. Nodulocystic acne, with a kapha involvement, may consist of comedones and inflammatory lesions, as well as deeper nodules and cysts. It is important to note that open comedones or blackheads are not related to dirt. As a pitta teenager this author desperately used 'cleansers' on her skin to remove the offending blackheads, to no avail, feeling secret guilt about her 'dirty' skin, which was not dirty at all, but simply affected by abnormally keratinized desquamating cells.

A number of factors contribute to acne. There is a bacterial component related to the organism Propionibacterium acnes, which begins to colonize skin during the years prior to sexual maturity, growing chiefly on the oilier skin of on the face and upper chest. Snigdha is one of the gunas of pitta and P. acne thrives in the lipid-rich (oily/snigha) microenvironment of the hair follicle, producing inflammatory mediators that result in the papules, pustules, and ultimately, nodulocystic lesions of inflammatory, pitta acne. Thus some researchers consider that inflammatory acne is due to hypersensitivity to Propionibacterium acnes (5). This organism is sensitive to tetracycline, providing the rationale for the long courses of tetracycline given to youth with inflammatory acne.

Acne is also more common in adolescents with oilier skin (pitta or kapha skin types). There may well be a dietary component to acne, which is extremely prevalent in Westernized countries with a diet high in refined foods and processed sugars, for acne has been found to be almost non-existent in hunter-gatherer tribes following their indigenous diet (1). And the typical onset of acne in girls a year before menarche, i.e. at the time of adrenarche, points to an involvement of DHEA-S in acne. Elevated levels of DHEA-S have been implicated in adult onset acne, especially when associated with hirsutism (6).

In evaluating an adolescent with acne, it is crucial to take a holistic view. Teenagers do not respond well to being lectured or 'told' by older adults. Enlist yourself as an ally and take plenty of time to listen. Listening will also help you evaluate whether or not significant depression is present and, if so, to refer for psychological or psychiatric services for evaluation of suicide risk (3). In the case of teenage girls with severe acne, look for hirsutism (unwanted hair growth), excess weight or irregular menses. A constellation of several of these symptoms could indicate PCOS (polycystic ovarian syndrome).

In general, it can be quite difficult to get compliance with adolescent clients because impulse control is typically undeveloped in this age group and peer pressure is significant. However, because of the importance of appearance to teens and young adults, we have seen some instances of self-motivated young people taking on an Ayurvedic programme. First, address diet to the greatest extent possible. The more fast foods, high fat or fried items and refined sugars in the diet, the worse will be the acne;(7,8) yet social pressures lead teenagers in the direction of hamburgers, pizza and sodas. Appeal to the young client's sense of 'trophyism' by portraying Ayurvedic eating as something special--a trophy. Some of our young patients have not only learnt to prepare dal and kitcheri, they have also proudly shared their skills with friends and created their own subculture within high school, becoming informal diet mentors.

In terms of treatment, looking first at KP, this ailment has no known treatment in Western medicine, yet as a vata condition it may be improved by regular application of sesame oil or vata or pitta massage oil (as indicated according to prakruti.) General measures to manage vata and use of vata pacifying herbs such as Ashwagandha may prove beneficial, while KP rubra will also require pitta soothing measures and herbs such as Shatavari.

Where acne is concerned, in addition to general measures to control pitta, more vigorous specific is required since treatment of acne can result in scarring. Rich in polyphenols and flavonoids, sesame oil can be used both topically and externally for sebum control, helping to minimize outbreaks of acne. (9) For facial application, sesame oil can be emulsified with rosewater to prevent clogging of large pores. The astringent taste is especially useful in management of acne, since it will tend to break up the keratinized desquamated cells giving rise to whiteheads and blackheads. One adolescent boy who was plagued with acne instituted a daily regime of Triphala tea face rinses and found that he could control his acne effectively with the help of this home remedy. Triphala is also scraping enough to be of benefit even in the cystic stage of acne.

For control of P. acnes it is valuable to use antibacterial herbs such as neem, Manjista and turmeric, which not only have antibacterial action, they also "show anti-inflammatory activity by suppressing the capacity of P. acnes-induced ROS and pro-inflammatory cytokines, the two important inflammatory mediators in acne pathogenesis."(10). In the earlier stages of acne, external use of herbs may suffice, such as washing the face with neem soap. In inflammatory acne, as well as continuing such external uses; neem, Manjista and turmeric should also be used internally. A rakta shodhan formula such as Blood Cleanse, which contains Manjista, neem and turmeric as well as Guduchi and burdock, is ideal to use in this situation and shouls be easy for compliance since it is in tablet form. Triphala tea of Triphala tablets (for easier compliance) can be added to the regime to help clear ama from the system.

Thus by enlisting compliance and utilizing appropriate polyphenol-rich oils, astringent and tannin-rich herbs and antibacterial herbs, acne control may be obtained without the use of medications which may have significant side effects.

Loren Cordain, PhD; Staffan Lindeberg, MD,PhD; Magdalena Hurtado, PhD; Kim Hill, PhD; S. Boyd Eaton, MD; Jennie Brand-Miller, PhD Acne Vulgaris A Disease of Western Civilization Arch Dermatol. 2002;138:1584-1590
Krowchuk DP, Lucky AW Managing adolescent acne. Adolesc Med. 2001 Jun;12(2):vii, 355-74 Affects 17 million in USA including 85% of adolescents
Peter R. Hull Acne, Depression, and Suicide Dermatologic Clinics Volume 23, Issue 4, October 2005, Pages 665-674 Psychocutaneous Disease
BETTY ANNE JOHNSON, M.D., PH.D., and JULIA R. NUNLEY, M.D Use of Systemic Agents in the Treatment of Acne Vulgaris American Family Physician Oct 2000
Webster GF. Inflammatory acne represents hypersensitivity to Propionibacterium acnes. Dermatology. 1998;196(1):80-1.
Seirafi, Hassan MD; Farnaghi, Farshad MD; Vasheghani-Farahani, Amir MD; et al, Assessment of androgens in women with adult-onset acne. International Journal of Dermatology. 46(11):1188-1191, November 2007.
Smith RN, Mann NJ, Braue A, Makelainen H, Varigos GA: A low-glycemic-load diet improves symptoms in acne vulgaris patients: a randomized controlled trial. Am J Clin Nutr 2007, 86:107-15Logan AC:
Dietary fat, fiber, and acne vulgaris. J Am Acad Dermatol 2007, 57(6):1092-3
Clinical and instrumental study of the efficacy of a new sebum control cream. Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology. 6(2):113-118, June 2007.Dobrev, Hristo MD, PhD
Inhibition of Propionibacterium acnes-induced mediators of inflammation by Indian herbs.Jain A, Basal E. Phytomedicine. 2003 Jan;10(1):34-8

Alakananda Devi (Alakananda Ma) is director of Alandi Ayurvedic Clinic in Boulder, Colorado, and principal teacher of Alandi School of Ayurveda, a traditional ayurvedic school and apprenticeship program. She can be reached at 303-786-7437 or by email at: info@alandiashram.org.

Remedies for Menstrual and Premenstrual Problems

2012-01-22T20:26:06Z

by Alakananda Devi (Alakananda Ma), M.B., B.S. (Lond.)

The moon, the tides of the ocean and woman, these three cycle together each month. A woman's monthly bleeding sets her apart from all other females, none of whom have menstruation as part of their reproductive physiology. Mysterious and powerful, a woman's cycle is a source of her deep connection to the moon and the cycles of nature. Yet all too often, her cycle is experienced as troublesome and painful rather than as enriching. One of the most important things an Ayurvedic practitioner can do in the care of a younger woman is to help her have a positive experience of her menstrual cycle. PMS and menstrual cramps rob a woman of the potential richness of this experience and can lead to her feeling negative about her femininity. This in turn can create worse problems such as malignancies in the reproductive system.

]]> Vata PMS
Vata type PMS manifests in stress, anxiety, insomnia, low back pain and constipation occurring during the week or ten days before the onset of menstruation. This condition is best dealt with by gentle vata soothing measures such as regular self abhyanga using organic sesame oil or Vata Massage Oil, and sweat therapy in a tub with one third cup of ginger root powder and one third cup of baking soda mixed in the warm water. A basti using Dashamula tea can be done one week before menstruation, to ease both vata type PMS and vata dysmenorrhoeaTHis basti is best preceded and followed by oil basti. For insomnia and anxiety, a good remedy is a teaspoon of Ashwagandha in a cup of warm cow's milk or almond milk at bed time. For constipation, it may be sufficient to add a teaspoon or two of ghee to the Ashwagandha milk. An alternative choice is a half teaspoon of Sat Isabgol in warm water or milk at bed time. Below are typical instructions we give out for home sweat and Dashamula basti.

Ginger-Soda bath:
1/3 cup each of dried ginger & baking soda for each bathtubful of tolerable hot water (avoid excessive heat). Total amounts needed: dried ginger 1/3 cup baking soda 1/3 cup.

Be sure the bathroom is warm -- avoid getting chilled at any time. Have extra "oil" towels available. Soak after oiling and then get out when begin to sweat. Cover with towels and continue to sweat in the warm bathroom until you are beginning to cool down.

Basti

At 7 pm or sunset time, instead of dinner prepare the recommended basti for that day.

Day 1 : 4 oz sesame oil, blood heat temperature (body temperature)
Day 2: Dashmula tea: 1 ½ pints pure water & 2 Tablespoons Dashmula tea. Simmer with lid on for 10 min. Then strain really well, through a silk cloth or coffee filter. Do not use the roots/powder portion in the enema bag, ONLY use the strained liquid. Then add ½ cup of warm sesame oil, mix & put in enema bag at blood heat temperature.
Day 3: 4 oz sesame oil again, blood heat temperature

Prepare & warm up the bathroom or other location where you will be administering the basti.

Have towel handy for "diaper", if needed to safely get to toilet.
Be sure you have a comfortable, cushioned place to recline during the basti. There may be some leakage while administering the enema, so have appropriate old towels etc under you (ie. Not your favorite blanket). Most people arrange a "nest" in the bathroom or bathtub.
You will want to have a place to hang up the enema bag - most have a hook or loop on the top which you can use directly on something or can put on a clothes hanger & then hook onto a towel rack or shower head, etc.

After preparing the basti put it in the previously cleaned & air-dried enema bag
Check the action of the bag while doing the previous cleaning - how to release the clasp; letting air out of the nozzle before insertion Lubricate the nozzle (part to be inserted in the anus) with sesame oil. Also lubricate your anus with sesame oil .Do not use KY jelly even if this is indicated in the instructions that come with your enema kit. ( KY jelly is a petroleum product.)
Lie on your left side. Gently & slowly insert the nozzle (if it's uncomfortable try another angle inward) Release the clasp holding the liquid in and allow it to flow slowly into the rectum. Lie on the left side for 10 minutes. Then move to lie on the back for 10 minutes. Then turn & line on the right side for 10 minutes. Trying to retain the enema for 30 minutes is ideal. If you feel like you aren't retaining it, oil your belly and massage counter-clockwise for five minutes to help keep the basti in.
When it has emptied from the bag, slowly remove the nozzle from your anus
When the urge arises after 30 minutes, use the towel "diaper" under you to avoid leakage, and go to the toilet. Relax for awhile.
It is not unusual for no oil to come out, especially with the first oil enema, and for vata people or situations. Do not be alarmed. The oil will be beneficial if your body has chosen to absorb it. You can just carry on with your day- maybe keeping a little pad or toilet paper in your underwear in case oil leaks out.
Usually the tea enema will lead to some results. If not, inform your practitioner for further consultation. You can continue with the 3rd enema if s/he hasn't gotten back to you yet, and stay on kitcheree until after talking with her/him.
After the results, clean the toilet as needed and then take a shower
Eat a small amount (1/2 -1 cup of very soupy kitcheree) with plenty of ghee, to keep the vata moving downward
After 1 ½ to 2 hrs (when kitcheree has gone past stomach digestion) go to bed for the night

Pitta PMS
Pitta PMS can be a devastating problem that destroys lives and marriages. In its most severe form, it may be diagnosed as premenstrual mood disorder, also known as PMDD--premenstrual dysphoric disorder. Affecting 5% of women, PMDD expresses in moodiness or out of control anger outbursts during two weeks or before menstruation. Depression, mood swings, suicidal thoughts, irritability and cravings for sweets and chocolate are typical pitta symptoms that mark this disorder. Matters are only made worse when the woman blames herself or experiences blame from family members. One woman says, "Only after menopause did I fully realise the devastating impact PMDD had exerted on my life. Once my hormones were no longer cycling I realised that I was in fact a very patient and well balanced person who had been blamed for a physical ailment that did not reflect my true personality." PMDD is a serotonin-related imbalance treated in Western medicine with SSRI anti-depressants. Hence it will respond well to either Brahmi or Bacopa, both of which elevate serotonin levels. In addition, the underlying pitta condition can be managed with Shatavari Kalpa. Roast an ounce of Shatavari with one or two tablespoons ghee in a cast iron pan until light brown and add two tablespoons of sucanat, rapadura or turbinado sugar, two pinches saffron and a pinch of cardamom. A teaspoon of this recipe can be taken in the morning to prevent tikshnagni and provoked pitta. For tender breasts, another typical symptom of pitta PM S, breast massage with Organic Coconut Oil or Breast Balm can be extremely helpful.

In addition to these herbal remedies, a strict pitta-pacifying diet should be followed, with especial care to avoid nightshades such as eggplant and tomato sauces. PMDD may be a result of our unnatural indoor lifestyle which does not expose us to natural alternations of light and dark. Moon bathing and moonlight strolling can be helpful for this condition. If possible, the woman should place the head of her bed near a skylight or large window so she can get exposure to moonlight and be influenced by the moon's cycle while sleeping, as her ancestors were.

When PMDD manifests as a significant illness, pancha karma will help speed the rate of recovery. An appropriate PK regime for pitta should be followed, including abhyanga with Pitta Massage Oil, virechan (purge) with either castor oil or a larger-than-usual dose of Amlaki and basti with Guduchi in place of Dashamula.

Kapha PMS
Bloating, fluid retention, crying, weepiness, fatigue and lethargy characterise kapha PMS. This condition can be helped by a kapha soothing diet with emphasis on salt reduction, and by Punarnava, half a teaspoon twice daily mixed in honey, which will have a mild diuretic effect and will in addition soothe kapha. Triphala or Bibhitaki will also be of help in balancing kapha, reducing toxins and limiting fatigue.

Vata Dysmenorrhoea
Vata dysmenorrhoea consists of intense cramps which occur before the onset of bleeding or when the bleeding is still only light. Such cramps can be severe and disabling. Yogaraj Guggulu is an excellent remedy for this condition and should be taken daily throughout the cycle as the intention is not just for immediate relief of pain but to pacify the underlying vata. Alternatively, and more suitable for an underweight vata, a combination of Ashwagandha and Vidari will help to reduce menstrual cramps and regulate the menstrual cycle. Again, this remedy should be taken all month long as the intention is to calm vata systemically rather than to act as an alternative to Ibuprofen. As mentioned in context of vata PMS, Dashamula basti can be done a week before the onset of menstruation and can help calm the vata so that cramps are lessened. At that time, it can also be helpful to do a Dashamula douche with some of the same decoction. This can help remove vata from artava dhatu. Supported supta vajrasana is an excellent yoga pose for menstrual cramps. With adequate support, it is possible to remain in this position for as much as twenty minutes, with great relief. A woman who suffers every month from intense cramps will be likely to get significant relief by doing pancha karma, with emphasis on internal oleation, abhyanga with Vata Massage Oil and sesame oil and Dashamula bastis.

Pitta Dysmenorrhoea and Menorrhagia
Pitta dysmenorrhoea and menorrhagia go hand in hand as manifestations of excess pitta in the system. Because of the sara (creeping) nature of pitta, excess ranjak pitta can overflow from the liver and collect in the pelvic cavity, causing excess menstrual bleeding and pitta type cramps. Symptoms of pitta dysmenorrhoea include tenderness and cramps which occur when the flow is at its heaviest. Symptoms of menorrhagia include soaking through a pad or tampon each hour or less or needing to use double protection, passing large clots, being woken at night by excess flow, and feeling breathless or dizzy during the flow as a result of excess bleeding. Causes of menorrhagia can be complex and multifactorial. Sometimes HRT can provoke pitta causing excess bleeding. EDS, a genetic disorder in which the mridu (soft) quality of pitta is in excess can lead to heavy menstrual bleeding as well as easy bruising. Vitamin K deficiency can be caused by pitta provoking medication such as aspirin as well as by malabsorption conditions such as celiac syndrome. Von Willebrands disease is a little known bleeding disorder characterised by excess menstrual bleeding, easy bruising and frequent and prolonged nosebleeds. Iron deficiency is both an effect and a cause of menorrhagia since when serum iron is low the blood vessels are unable to constrict effectively to stop the bleeding.

Aloe vera is the anupan of choice for pitta dysmenorrhoea and menorrhagia. Guduchi will help address the root cause of menorrhagia in the excess ranjak pitta, Shatavari will support healthy balance of hormones and reduce pitta throughout the system, Ashoka is an excellent remedy for excess bleeding and menstrual cramps and Rose is astringent and reduces excess bleeding. Hibiscus will also balance the female reproductive system and reduce pitta, so Rose and Hibiscus tea with a touch of cinnamon, a warming emenogogue, can be an excellent beverage for pitta menstrual symptoms. Musta is an herb of choice for pitta PMS and pitta cramps and will also help with yeast infections. Containing many of these pitta soothing herbs, Women's Support is a good all purpose women's formula that can bring relief for dysmenorrhoea and menorrhagia.

Moon salutations, shitali and gentle forward-bending poses can help bring relief for pitta dysmenorrhoea, menorrhagia and indeed for PMDD. The women cited earlier in context of PMDD notes that, "Although I had no choice about being irritable and upset, I still had a choice of how to deal with it. Eventually I learnt to run into another room before I yelled, and to do some shitali until I felt calmer. Then I could have some hibiscus tea or some warm milk with cardamom. These small victories gave me a sense of self respect and achievement even in the face of the mood disorder."

Kapha Dysmenorrhoea
A dull ache, heavy, congested feeling, lethargy and fogginess characterise kapha dysmenorrhoea. The kapha woman should avoid dairy products such as milk and cheese during her menstrual period and should concentrate on light, kapha reducing food such as fruits and vegetables. Unlike vata and pitta, who need to rest during menstruation, the kapha woman needs gentle, low impact exercise at this time, including flowing vinyasa and walking. This will stimulate circulation which will relieve much of the sensation of heaviness. As during kapha PMS, Punarnava in honey is an herb of choice. She can also try some emmenogogue teas such as Hibiscus tea, without the rose and with more cinnamon and a little ginger powder. Women's Support may be very beneficial, especially if she has heavy bleeding or clots. Hot packs such as castor oil packs or ginger packs can also give great relief to the feeling of congestion.

Ayurvedic support in terms of diet, yoga, home remedies and herbs offer women the life-changing opportunity to experience their moon cycle as life-giving rather than as negative. Even a devastating condition such as PMDD can be relieved by appropriate pitta soothing measures and nervine herbs. By reducing the amount of ill health and pain experienced before and during menstruation, the Ayurvedic practitioner can make a significant impact on a woman's overall wellbeing and that of her family.

Remedies for Allergy Season

2012-01-22T20:02:25Z

by Alakananda Devi (Alakananda Ma), M.B., B.S. (Lond.)

A home medicine chest for allergy season can help get through a time of year that would be delightful were it not for the allergies. To make your kit, first determine whether your allergies--or those of your family or clients--involve vata, pitta or kapha. Then you can build the appropriate home medicine chest with remedies for before, during and after allergy season.

Pitta allergies and hay fever express in very red, sore eyes and sore, red, inflamed and itchy nose. It may feel exactly as if you have been chopping onions. You may run a low fever or feel tenderness throughout your body. The liver area may be sore and tender and you may feel unusually irritable. Exposure to bright sunlight sets off sneezing attacks. There are some allergens that are notorious for setting off pitta allergies in people of any constitution. Citrus blossoms, for example, can initiate a pitta allergy attack because the pollen is so hot, sharp and sour. The same applies to the pollen of anacardiaceae or members of the Sumac family such as mangoes and cashews.

Kapha allergies manifest with a dull, heavy feeling in the head, very stuffy nose and sinuses, a feeling of fullness in the face, swollen eyes, lethargy and sleepiness, and copious mucus production. There may be onset of asthma related to post-nasal drip. Some damp-related allergens such as molds will set off kapha allergies and asthma in susceptible people of all constitutions.

A vata-caused allergy attack could be set off by exposure to dry dust and would typically involve a feeling of excess dryness and pain in the nose and sinuses, as well as a dry, hoarse feeling in the throat. Spasmodic asthma may result in severe cases. However, above and beyond these typical vata manifestations, it is very important to be aware of the role of vata in allergies that appear to be related to pitta or kapha. The doshas that are present throughout the body are not necessarily those that are expressing in the head. It is often the case that vata may push the other doshas to the head. In fact, it is in this situation that Ayurvedic analysis really comes into its own.

]]> To give an example, a mother brought her eighteen month old child in with a head cold. The mother was very concerned because the stepmother had given the same herbs that had cured the stepbrother, "So why didn't my child get well." On examination it was obvious that the little girl was vata, with vata pushing kapha to the head. A dose of bitter herbs such as Echinacea was exactly what she did not need. As soon as she stopped the herbs she got well. It is always important to be aware of the role of vata pushing kapha to the head. In such situations, ensure that the remedy will not be vata provoking.

Vata allergy remedies
It is important to begin preparation for allergy season about a month ahead of time. For vata-caused allergies, organic Sesame Oil is an essential item. To prepare for allergy season, begin regular self-massage with Sesame oil or Vata Massage Oil. This will help keep iin check so it will not push doshas to the head. Dashamula is another item vata should always have on hand. It can be used for basti (enema) therapy in preparation for allergy season. Dashamula tea is a pleasant beverage which also helps pacify vata. A teaspoon of Ashwagandha can be taken at bedtime in a cup of warm milk to help balance vata.

During allergy season, vata can use Sitopaladi Churna to mitigate symptoms of runny nose and cough. For vata pushing kapha, causing sinus symptoms or asthma, Dashamula tea is the perfect remedy, since it pacifies both vata and kapha. Charaka also recommends Dashamula kunji or gruel. Rice gruel prepared with Dashamula is said to alleviate "cough, hiccough, breathlessness and kapha." In vata-type allergies, Nasya Oil is the best remedy for dry, painful nasal passages, while Liquorice tea will alleviate a dry, raspy throat. Liquorice is also endowed with anti-allergy properties.

After allergy season is over, it is wise to continue with Nasya oil for about a month, to help the nasal mucosa recover from the assault of the allergens.

Pitta's allergy remedies
At least a month before allergy season, Pitta needs to get to work on strengthening the liver and reducing pitta dosha. Mahasudarshan is the remedy of choice in preparation for allergy season. The actions of Mahasudarshan in strengthening the liver, cleansing the lymphatics and reducing pitta are ideal for this situation. One half teaspoon of Mahasudarshan can be taken in the morning on an empty stomach, mixed in honey, followed by warm water. Although Mahasudarshan is so bitter, many pitta types actually enjoy the taste and cleansing energy of this remarkable combination. Amlaki is an item Pitta should always have on hand. Its action as a virechan (laxative) herb in gently removing excess pitta dosha is an essential preparation for allergy season. Take half a teaspoon at bedtime, steeped ten minutes in boiling water and strained. In preparation for allergy season, it is also important to follow a pitta-soothing anti-inflammatory diet, avoiding fried foods, processed foods, nightshades, chillies, onions and garlic, red meat and egg yolks. Avoiding excess consumption of alcohol, caffeine and recreational drugs will also be of great benefit. A week of cleansing kitcheri fast will be an ideal preparation for those prone to severe allergies.

1/2 cup split mung beans
1 cup basmati rice

Wash them both thoroughly, melt ghee and add spices: fresh ginger, turmeric (fresh or powdered), powdered fennel, cumin and coriander. (It is best to buy organic whole spices and grind them fresh in a spice mill since powdered culinary spices may lack the full medicinal properties.) Add rice, beans and 6 cups water, then bring to boil. Turn down to simmer for 45 minutes or until mung beans are very soft in pot on stove (or make in crock pot cooking overnight--be sure there's plenty of water or you're making a much larger batch to activate the heating elements in the crock pot). After cooking, add salt to taste. If you live at altitude, cook the mung beans for 45 minutes while soaking the rice, then add the rice and cook for 45 minutes more.

During allergy season, many people have recourse to over the counter antihistamines. Unfortunately, these remedies are in themselves pitta-provoking, thus tending to be counterproductive. An equally good antihistamine effect can be obtained from the humble Turmeric. Mix a teaspoon of turmeric in honey and eat to dispel an allergy attack or allergic asthma episode more or less instantly. It is important to use medicinal grade organic turmeric since the ordinary turmeric from the grocery store or Indian market may be significantly lacking in curcumins. We stock our kitchen with Banyan's organic turmeric to use for all our cooking and home remedy purposes, to be certain we are getting the full benefit from the turmeric. For red, sore eyes, an anti-inflammatory eyewash can be prepared from Amlaki.

Continue Mahasudarshan and Amlaki throughout allergy season. (If libido should become lowered it is a signal to discontinue Mahasudarshan for a while). Continuing the anti-inflammatory diet is likewise essential.

After allergy season is over, it is time to rejuvenate pitta with Shatavari Kalpa. Roast an ounce of Shatavari with one or two tablespoons ghee in a cast iron pan until light brown and add two tablespoons of sucanat, rapadura or turbinado sugar, two pinches saffron and a pinch of freshly ground cardamom. This can be eaten two or three times daily and is especially good with warm milk at bed time.

Kapha's allergy remedies
Detoxifying lymphatics and strengthening the lungs are necessary steps for kapha in preparing for allergy season. Unfortunately for kapha, allergy season follows hot on the heels of flu season. If Kapha was hit by flu or bronchitis, then the best preparation for allergy season is to take Chyavanprash twice daily to strengthen the lungs. Otherwise, a month before allergy season, begin taking Mahsudarshan to cleanse the lymphatics. Triphala will also help with overall detoxification. Take half a teaspoon at bedtime steeped ten minutes in boiling water and strained.

Eliminate the kapha provoking foods from the diet, especially wheat and cow dairy.

During allergy season, Punarnava is God's gift to kapha, possessed of anti-histamine, kapha soothing and lung strengthening properties. Mix half a teaspoon of Punarnava in honey and eat after meals. Turmeric can be used for an acute allergy attack and Dashamoola tea for symptoms of cough and breathlessness. For allergic asthma, it is also beneficial to take a pinch of Pippali in two tablespoons of Aloe Vera. This can be taken after meals along with the Punarnava remedy. For swollen eyes, eyewash can be prepared from Punarnava. Always use distilled water for eyewash preparations. Mahasudarshan and Triphala can be continued throughout allergy season.

Pollens and molds have been found to adhere to the nasal mucosa, causing ongoing problems that may even outlast allergy season. To remedy this situation, nasya or saline nasal rinse is crucial. A Nasal Rinse Cup is an essential piece of equipment both for kapha individuals and for those vata people who typically suffer from vata pushing kapha to the head. Be sure to use purified water for your nasya, as you do not want to assault your nasal mucosa with chlorine, which could adversely affect the flora of your nose. And it is important after washing the nose to dry it with forward bending poses, side to side stretches such as Waving Palm Tree and vigorous alternate nostril breathing (anuloma viloma).

After allergy season the lungs can be further rejuvenated by resuming Chyavanprash. Punarnava can also be continued as it is an important rejuvenative for kapha.

By making use of a medicine chest of Ayurvedic remedies for allergy season, allergy suffers may begin to find spring enjoyable for the first time. Indeed, faithfully following all the relevant suggestions here could greatly improve overall health and wellbeing. I never cease to be amazed at how herbs such as Turmeric, Amlaki, Liquorice and Purnarva seem tailor made for our needs. Although it is often plants that give rise to hay fever and allergies, it is also through a wise use of medicinal plants that these troubling symptoms can be relieved.

All products mentioned in this article are available from www.banyanbotanicals.com.

Working with Marijuana Smokers

2012-01-19T18:49:03Z

by Alakananda Devi (Alakananda Ma), M.B., B.S. (Lond.)

In the last edition of Banyan Vine, we talked about working as an Ayurvedic practitioner with individuals who smoke tobacco. In this edition, we will look at issues involved in working with Marijuana smokers.

Despite its illegal status, Marijuana smoking is extremely prevalent in an increasingly wide age group, from the Baby Boomer generation down. Vietnam veterans, old hippies, would-be Rastas, college students and high school students are likely candidates for this habit. Vata smokes Marijuana calm down, pitta to, "Mellow out" and feel less angry and driven, kapha to suppress deep-seated grief. Of the three types, however, pitta, endlessly over-achieving, is the most susceptible to the lure of Marijuana. It is pitta too, who receives the most negative impact from Marijuana, a pitta toxin.

Two common misconceptions support pot smokers in their habit. First is the belief that Marijuana is harmless or even beneficial for health. The second is that ganja or marijuana is sacred and hence its use is not merely condoned, it is even enjoined. In India, where ganja is a native plant, there is a very ancient history of its use under specified conditions. Based on this long experience, Ayurveda is aware of significant physical, emotional and spiritual consequences of Marijuana use.

]]> Known in Sanskrit as Vijaya, Marijuana is a muscle relaxant, euphoriant and analgesic. Unfortunately, it is also a liver toxin. An important physical impact of Marijuana is sub-clinical hepatitis, a condition in which the liver is chronically congested, resulting in irritability, low-grade depression, slow wound healing, burning sensations, rashes, allergies and yellowish eyes. Marijuana is also, by prabhav, damaging to all seven dhatus. Although Marijuana is not technically a physically addicting substance, it is powerfully habit-forming, as a result of its short-term euphoriant and long-term depressant effect. The smoker wakes next morning irritable and depressed and hence very inclined to take another hit in order to get another burst of euphoria. The method of smoking is also significant since long-term inhalation of dry smoke into the lungs provokes vata in the lungs and sinuses. A fifty-six year old woman who had smoked Marijuana for thirty years eventually succumbed to lung cancer. She had never smoked tobacco. Although an anecdotal story can never be regarded as evidence, it certainly gives pause for thought.

On the emotional level, Marijuana smoking can lead to lack of motivation and emotional withdrawal. Users are often perceived by a non-using spouse or child as being distant and emotionally unavailable, leading to marital problems, divorce or a child's demand to be in the custody of the non-using parent. One heavy user actually lost his child in a custody battle with his ex-girlfriend, who was not the child's biological mother. Employers may perceive Marijuana smokers as inaccurate, error-prone or lacking in enthusiasm. One patient who used ganja as self-medication for his grief over his mother's death finally decided to quit smoking when he lost his ideal job as a result of multiple errors. It is perhaps for reasons such as these that ancient Indian tradition mandated ganja smoking only for renunciants, strictly forbidding its use for the householders, immersed as they are in relationships and work in the world.

On the spiritual level, ganja has a specific action on the three gunas. In the initial euphoria phase, the sattva guna is activated. Later, as giggles and "munchies" set in, rajas predominates. Finally, the long-term effect is that of tamas, leading to a dull and foggy state of mind. Within this fog, the insights supposedly received under the mildly psychedelic impact of ganja cannot be integrated in any valuable way. "Munchies" in themselves can have a significant health impact. A twenty-one year old weekend Marijuana smoker eats a good Ayurvedic diet all week long, only to binge on sweets each weekend when intoxicated with pot. As a result, he continues to suffer from chronic yeast overgrowth and visham agni despite his efforts during the week at leading a healthy lifestyle.

Marijuana smokers may present with complaints that may include depression, irritability, PMS, eczema or psoriasis, acne, burning sensations, sinusitis, allergies, cough, aches and pains, abscesses or boils that heal slowly. On examination, the tongue may have a thick yellow coating with many red dots and may be extremely red around the edges, suggestive of pitta in the rasa dhatu. There may be a prominent spike in the ranjak pitta pulse, indicative of the stress the liver is under. The liver pulse is typically weak with a very blunt kapha spike. While the symptoms of depression are in part an effect of the Marijuana smoking itself, there may also be a much deeper cause. Many individuals self-medicate for depression or PTSD with Marijuana. Other symptoms, such as eczema or allergies, are a result of sub-clinical hepatitis or poor liver function arising from or exacerbated by ganja smoking. In addition, Marijuana smokers may also abuse alcohol in the context of a party lifestyle, further exacerbating the impact upon their liver.

The first step of the treatment is for the client to understand the relationship between his/her symptoms and his lifestyle habit. Regular use of Marijuana falls into the category of prajnaparadh or crimes against wisdom. A good phrase is often "I were to smoke pot every day, I would probably suffer from..." here listing the client's Marijuana-related symptoms. A twenty-four-year old receptionist in a doctor's office responded in the negative when asked if she had any habits or addictions. However, the red and yellow appearance of her tongue, prominent ranjak pitta spike and weak liver pulse told a different story. She was astonished to learn that her almost daily reefer smoking had been discovered through Ayurvedic diagnosis and was equally surprised when she realized that her tendency to rashes and PMS could be related to this habit.

As ganja smokers are by nature rebels, attempts to get them to simply quit smoking are likely to be domed to failure. Since the practitioner's task is to support health rather than to enforce the law, a beneficial approach is often to encourage the smoker to reduce their usage to once a month. Usage at this level is unlikely to have significant negative health impacts except in those with Hepatitis C, who should be strongly encouraged to eliminate all liver toxins from their lives. Additionally, ganja smokers should be encouraged to use a water pipe in order to minimize the amount of dry smoke that enters their lungs. The deeper cause of the smoking habit needs to be addressed through Ayurvedic approaches to depression and trauma, supported by psychotherapy. Female ganja smokers frequently suffer from codependency, blaming their husband or boyfriend for their habit. In this case, it is more important to address the codependency than the smoking, as the one arises from the other.

A good liver formula, such as Banyan's Liver Formula is an essential part of the management of ganja-related symptoms. This needs to include herbs that are lekhan, such as Kutki, to scrape the fat-soluble cannabis toxins from the liver, as well as blood cleansers such as Manjistha and bitter tonics such as Guduchi. Triphala will also be valuable in gently cleansing the Marijuana toxins from the system. An herbal smoking mix, using herbs as Red Clover, Osha, and Mullein can be used in place of or together with ganja as part of a plan to reduce ganja use. Adding Brahmi or Jatamansi to this mix will limit the tamasic impact of ganja. For depression, use Brahmi tea three times daily, one teaspoon per cup, or, for high school students who are reluctant to make or drink tea, Mental Clarity formula, which strengthens focus and attention.

Since Cannabis toxins are fat soluble and remain in the deeper dhatus such as meda, majja and shukra, pancha karma will be an essential feature in cleansing the body of these potentially harmful toxins. Pancha karma, however, can only be done once the individual is sufficiently free of the addiction to be able to refrain from ganja for the duration of the pancha karma. Of course, the best impact will be obtained from pancha karma if the client will be smoking no more than once a month thereafter. Guduchi will be a good basti ingredient for this pancha karma, since marijuana is a pitta toxin. After pancha karma, Chyavanprash can be used as a general rejuvenative and to help heal the lungs from the effects of Marijuana smoking.

Although long revered in India as a sacred plant of Shiva, ganja has, as we have seen, significant physical, emotional and spiritual impacts. In its ancient cultural setting, it has for centuries been used by world renouncing sadhus in conjunction with fasts and severe austerities. In such a context, ganja could potentially be of value on the spiritual path, although this author has rarely met a ganja-smoking sadhu who had attained the ultimate goal. Taken out of its cultural context and introduced into a party lifestyle unheard-of in ancient tradition, ganja has become far more problematic. Working with ganja smokers provides a unique set of challenges and opportunities for the Ayurvedic practitioner.

All products mentioned in this article are available from www.banyanbotanicals.com.

Alakananda's Basque Pie

2012-01-19T05:53:55Z

This is a great vegetarian centerpiece for a Christmas or New Year's dinner as well as a fine winter meal.

Serves 6-8

3 carrots,

3 turnips,

2 rutabegas,

2 Parsnips,

3 medium zucchini,

3 golden beets,

3 celery stalks,

2 heads of broccoli,

2 large portabello mushrooms,

2 cloves garlic,

3 medium tomatoes,

1 bunch Italian parsley,

1handful rosemary

1 handful sage

1 teaspoon salt

½ tablespoon thyme

fresh ground black pepper to taste

3 lbs potatoes organic, Yukon gold are best

4 ounces butter

½ cup whey

Sheep pecorino

Slice the root vegetables and the zucchini, cut the celery in1/2" thick pieces and the broccoli in florets.Lightly sautee the veggies and arrange in bottom of a large baking dish.Add olive oil, chopped herbs, sliced tomatoes, salt, pepper, and garlic cloves.Meanwhile, boil the potatoes.Mash the cooked potatoes with salt, pepper, butter, and whey. Spread on top of the veggies.Grate parmesan on top, cover with foil and bake at 375 degrees for at least 50 minutes or an hour.At the end, take off the foil to brown the top for about ten minutes. Vegans can substitute sunflower oil for butter and rice milk for whey and use a vegan cheese substitute.

Rejuvenating Vata

2012-01-18T18:55:23Z

by Alakananda Devi (Alakananda Ma), M.B., B.S. (Lond.)

Rasayana or rejuvenation for vata is needed in a variety of vata-related situations. In individuals of vata prakruti, during the management of diseases due to vata, in the vata season (autumn) and in the vata time of life, from age fifty onwards, it is important to address vata rasayana. Rejuvenation of vata is also important for those who live in jangala desha, the vata-predominant regions that are arid, with less vegetation and much high wind.(1) In terms of the United States, this description of jangala desha incorporates most of the desert and mountain West, with its high altitudes and arid or semi-arid conditions.

The king of vata rasayana herbs is of course Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) also known as winter cherry. Ashwagandha is a shrubby plant with greenish-yellow flowers and red berries. "Ashwagandha reduces increased vata and kapha and cures vitiligo, oedema, and wasting. It acts as a tonic and tissue vitalizer. It is bitter and astringent in taste and hot in potency and increases the quality and quantity of semen." (2)

Although it is particularly famed for its action on the deeper dhatus, majja and shukra, Ashwagandha rejuvenates the dhatu agni of all seven dhatus. This broad spectrum activity is perhaps related to the large number of active principles in the herb root. The main active principles in Ashwagandha are steroidal alkaloids and steroidal lactones. At least thirty five different withanolides, or steroidal lactones as well as twelve alkaloids have been identified in Ashwagandha. Withanolides have anti-oxidant and adaptagenic actions and suppress generation of free radicals (ageing factors). They are anti-inflammatory, immunomodulatory and anti-cancer. They act on majja dhatu in supporting nerve regeneration and ameliorate beta amyloid neuronal dysfunction in Alzheimer's disease. (3, 4)

]]> In muscle aches and pains, and fibromyalgia, Ashwagandha can be used together with Yogaraj Guggulu. In vata type skin disease such as scaly eczema or psoriasis, it can be combined with Manjista and Turmeric. In sexual debility, a teaspoon of Ashwagandha can be taken at bed time in a cup of hot cow's milk. For vata menstrual issues including irregular or painful menstruation, Ashwagandha can be combined with Shatavari, while to rejuvenate vata for the nursing mother, a combination of Licorice and Ashwagandha can be mixed in hot milk. The ultimate situation requiring rejuvenation of vata is balakshaya or vata type chronic fatigue. Ashwagandha is the herb of choice in this situation, and is traditionally taken with grtamadhu, a mixture of ghee and honey. For those who have systemic candidiasis and are unable to take gritamadhu as an anupan, almond milk is a good anupan that supports rejuvenation of ojas.

A fifty year old practitioner of yogic disciplines presented complaining of nervousness, anxiety, forgetfulness and nocturnal emissions. An individual of vata prakruti, he was also entering his vata time of life and was a resident of jangala desh, living at over five thousand feet in the windy, dry conditions of Colorado's Front Range. His lifestyle was vata provoking in that he slept six hours or less a night and rose at three in the morning, unaware that vata prakruti requires at least seven hours of sleep a night. He quickly took to a more vata soothing lifestyle, incorporating self-abhyanga and svedan into his weekly routine. In addition, he was advised to take a cup of hot cow's milk in the evenings with a teaspoon of Ashwagandha stirred into the milk. His sexual debility, manifesting in nocturnal emissions, was effectively relieved by this remedy. Although Ashwagandha is a celebrated aphrodisiac and shukral herb, it none the less supported this aspirant in his quest for brahmacharya or celibacy. His nocturnal emissions were unrelated to lust or excess libido, but were rather a manifestation of shukra gati vata--vata invading the shukra dhatu. Thus the vata soothing and shukra-rejuvenating impacts of vata served to eliminate his seminal emissions and support him on his yogic path. His anxiety calmed and his memory improved-- impacts of Ashwagandha on majja dhatu.

Another important specific rejuvenative for vata is sesame oil and its derivative forms-- medicated sesame oils such as Ashwagandha Bala Tailam. Sesame oil is considered a specific remedy for vata just as ghee is for pitta or honey for kapha. (5) Daily abhyanga is an essential feature of a vata-rejuvenating lifestyle.

"Abhyanga should be resorted to daily, it wards off old age, exertion and vata aggravation, bestows good vision, nourishment to the body, long life, good sleep, good and healthy skin."(6)

The sages of Ayurveda noted special properties of sesame oil that are now being validated by scientific research.

"Clarified butter prepared from cow's milk is the best of the animal snehas (oleaginous substances) while sesame oil is the best of the vegetable ones." (7)

"Oil of sesame possesses properties like penetrating deep into the tissues and spreading throughout the body fast...capable of entering into even minute pores, hot in potency, not increasing kapha, it makes lean persons fatty and fat persons lean, is constipating, kills worms, with appropriate processing, it cures all diseases." (8)

An important peer reviewed study published in the journal Anticancer Research showed that "sesame oil and its component linoleic acid, when added to human colon adenocarcinoma cells growing in tissue culture would inhibit their growth and that normal colon cells would not be similarly affected." Both lipase-digested sesame oil (such as would result from eating sesame oil) and undigested sesame oil (such as in oil basti) showed in vitro capacity to kill colon cancer cells without harming normal cells. This interesting study points to the possible usefulness of sesame oil basti not only in rejuvenating vata but also in preventing colon cancer. A study in Delhi investigated the possible benefits of vegetable oil massage in infants, concluding, "Massage improved the weight, length, and midarm and midleg circumferences as compared to infants without massage. However, in the group with sesame oil massage increase in length, midarm and midleg circumferences by 1.0, 0.9 and 0.7 cm, respectively was significant." (10)

Sesame oil is richly endowed with anti-oxidants, accoutring both for its special rejuvenative properties and for its ability be stored for long periods without becoming rancid.

A forty year old woman of vata prakruti complained of vata type chronic fatigue, depression, irregular menstruation and anxiety. Her symptoms worsened every fall and had also greatly exacerbated once she moved from California to the jangala environment of Colorado. She responded fairly well to a vata soothing formula including Ashwagandha, Vidari, and Dashamoola. However, her best ally was sesame oil and vata-soothing medicated sesame oils such as Vata Massage Oil. Regular self abhyanga with sesame oil, as well as sesame oil basti, helped her make it through the challenging fall season. Over a five year period of continuing to live in a vata provoking region, she found each fall and winter period went better than the preceding one, as long as she stuck with her practices of abhyanga and basti.

Above and beyond any herbal therapy, the best rejuvenative for vata is a good night's sleep.

"Sleep that knits up the ravelled sleeve of care, The death of each day's life, sore labour's bath, Balm of hurt minds, great nature's second course, Chief nourisher in life's feast." (11)

It is during sleep that the body engages in processes of growth and repair, and hence in the absence of proper sleep, even the best of rejuvenative herbs will prove ineffective. Yet all too often, as Wordsworth expressed,

"Even thus last night, and two nights more I lay, And could not win thee, Sleep! by any stealth: So do not let me wear tonight away: Without Thee what is all the morning's wealth?" (12)

In vata provocation, sleep, important as it is for vata, is often hard to attain. In extreme cases of vata type chronic fatigue, day and night become reversed, with disruption of the natural cortisol cycle. The patient is tired all day, only to become hyperactive at night. Eventually falling asleep after sunrise ushers in Kapha time, they then sleep until mid morning or later. However, day sleep only serves to exacerbate their insomnia and fatigue, as these hours are not optimal for the body's repair processes. Fortunately, our vata rejuvenation allies, Ashwagandha and sesame oil, both contribute to vata's ability to obtain the most vital rejuvenative of all. Possessed of activity similar to the calming neurotransmitter GABA, Ashwagandha helps induce sound sleep. A teaspoon of Ashwagandha in a cup of warm milk at bedtime will help promote sleep in a vata-deranged individual. Sesame oil massage is likewise invaluable in promoting sound sleep. Simply oiling the soles of the feet at bedtime with sesame oil or vata massage oil calms the system and induces good sleep. In addition, soporific and nervine herbs such as Bhringaraj, passionflower, nutmeg, skullcap and chamomile can promote sleep, the greatest vata rejuvenative. A formula such as Sound Sleep is thus valuable in the rejuvenation of vata.

With our key vata allies, Ashwagandha and sesame oil, all vata systems can be rejuvenated, and the impact of obstacles to health such as a naturally vata provoking region or onset of the vata time of life can be minimized if not eliminated.

Ashtanga Hrdayam sutrasthana ch1 v23. tr Srikantha Murthy, Chowkhamba KrishnadasAcademy.
Bhavaprakasha Nigantu, guduchiyadi varga
Tohda C, Kuboyama T, Komatsu K.. Search for natural products related to regeneration of the neuronal network. Neurosignals. 2005;14(1-2):34-45
Kuboyama T, Tohda C, Komatsu K. Neuritic regeneration and synaptic reconstruction induced by withanolide A. Br J Pharmacol. 2005 Apr;144(7):961-71.
Ashtanga Hrdayam sutrasthana Ch1 v 25. op cit.
Ashtanga Hrdayam sutrasthana Ch2 v 8. op cit
Sushrut Samhita, Chikitsa Sthanam, Ch xxxi v 3. tr. KL Bhishagratna. Chowkhamba Sanskrit Series.
Ashtanga Hrdayam sutrasthana Ch 5 v 55-56 op cit.
Salerno JW, Smith DE, The use of sesame oil and other vegetable oils in the inhibition of human colon cancer growth in vitro, Anticancer Res. 1991 Jan-Feb;11(1):209-15.
Agarwal KN, Gupta A, et al, Effects of massage & use of oil on growth, blood flow & sleep pattern in infants. Indian J Med Res. 2000 Dec;112:212-7.
Shakespeare, Macbeth.
Wordsworth, To Sleep

All products mentioned in this article are available from www.banyanbotanicals.com.

Rakta Shodhan - Blood Cleansing

2012-01-18T15:07:14Z

by Alakananda Devi (Alakananda Ma), M.B., B.S. (Lond.)

Spring is here, and as the sap rises in the trees, its time to consider the sluggish, stagnant energy in the biliary tree. The rakta dhatu, comprising the blood, liver, spleen and gall bladder, needs to be cleansed at this season of the year, just as gardens need to be cleared of dead foliage and trees and shrubs need to be pruned. Rakta shodhan, or blood cleansing, is vital as a preliminary to spring pancha karma. It is also essential for those who suffer from allergies such as hay fever. In the case of allergies, it is best to start a programme of blood cleansing a month before peak allergy season. The liver is the root of the rakta dhatu, so herbs that cleanse the blood also cleanse and remove stagnation from the liver, helping that organ to detoxify allergens. Blood cleansing in spring is also important for prevention of pitta issues such as acne, boils, and eczema, which may otherwise become exacerbated once the hot weather arrives.

Since time immemorial, ancient cultures have instituted a spring cleanse as integral to their annual rituals. The Canaanites burnt the old, mouldy wheat and refrained from wheat for eight days while fermenting their new dough starter from fresh winter wheat. Jewish people, in a continuation of that practice, abstain from all gluten grains for eight days, with the exception of matzo--a crisp, dry, more kapha-soothing food. Roman Catholics traditionally used to follow a vegetarian diet for forty days during Lent, while Greek and Russian Orthodox believers follow an even longer and stricter Lent. Sacralized by the dictates of religion, these practices embody the collective prajna in maintaining the health of the community through a regular spring cleansing process. As these traditions teach, blood cleansing brings much more than absence of disease. Mental clarity, emotional joy and spiritual upliftment can be enhanced by blood cleansing.

]]> A programme of rakta shodhan includes diet and lifestyle modifications, herbal therapies and mild purgation. For a cleansing diet, one can fast for a week or more on cleansing kitcheri.

1/2 cup split mung beans
1 cup basmati rice

Wash them both thoroughly, melt ghee and add spices: fresh ginger, tumeric, ground fennel, cumin and coriander (It is best to use organic whole spices and grind them in a spice mill). Add rice, beans and 6 cups water, and then bring to boil. Turn down to simmer for 45 minutes or until mung beans are very soft in pot on stove (or make in crock pot cooking overnight--be sure there's plenty of water or you're making a much larger batch to activate the heating elements in the crock pot). After cooking, add salt to taste. If you live at altitude, cook the mung beans for 45 minutes while soaking the rice, then add the rice and cook for 45 minutes more.

Another good recipe to use daily during rakta shodhan is liver cleanse sabji. This is a recipe to cleanse old pitta from the liver and to ground and nourish vata. For pitta, choose Chioggia or golden beets rather than the standard red ones and use plenty of cilantro. For kapha add a hot green pepper and cook the vegetables more lightly to avoid releasing the sugars.

4 medium carrots
2 beets
1 daikon
2 tbsp ghee or sunflower oil
1 bunch bitter dark greens (turnip, kale or collard)
1 tsp organic turmeric powder
1" fresh ginger, finely chopped
1 T organic cumin seeds
Pinch asafoetida
½ tsp salt
1 bunch cilantro, finely chopped.

Wash and slice the root vegetables. Heat half the ghee in a wok or frying pan and stir fry the vegetables. When they begin to soften, add the greens, cover and sauté to the desired tenderness. Meanwhile, in a small fry pan, heat the rest of the ghee. When it is hot but not smoking, lower the heat and add cumin, turmeric and ginger. Fry until the cumin seeds brown, add the asafoetida and toss into the vegetables. Stir in the salt and cilantro and serve.

In terms of lifestyle changes, during a period of rakta shodhan, all activities that are prajnaparadh (crimes against wisdom) should be suspended. This includes smoking, recreational drugs and activities that are habitual such as use of coffee, alcohol and white sugar. In terms of herbal therapies for rakta shodhan, it is important to consider not only the formula to recommend, but also the quality and specific provenance of the formula. In the UK, several well known blood purifiers have come under scrutiny for heavy metal contamination. The Medicines and Healthcare Products Regulatory Agency is advising UK consumers to avoid Karela tablets (made by Shriji Herbal Products); Karela capsules (Himalaya Drug Co); Yograj Guggal and Sudarshan tablets from Zandu Pharmaceuticals; SAFI liquid (Hamdard-WAKF) -a famous proprietary blood cleanser; and Mahasudarshan Churna supplied by Zandu Pharmaceuticals, D&K Pharmacy, Chhatrisha and Dabur India. The above list comprises many of the most popular blood cleansers. Hence it is of the utmost importance to recommend only the use of organic, tested, high quality herbal products such as those listed in the Banyan catalogue. Ayurvedic practitioners would be well advised to do clients the courtesy of informing them of the risks associated with the products on the MHPRA list, and to specify that they should purchase herbs only from outlets that offer tested organic products. It is all too easy to pick up a cheap bottle of contaminated Mahasudarshan at the local Indian grocery store.

Once its purity is assured, Mahasudarshan is a pre-eminent blood cleanser, excellent for allergies, acne, eczema, boils and other rakta dhatu-related conditions. Half a teaspoon can be taken in the morning on an empty stomach, mixed in honey as an anupan. For those who have difficulty complying in taking such a bitter herb, Mahasudarshan tablets are a good alternative. Triphala is indispensable to a program of rakta shodhan and can be taken in a half teaspoon dose half an hour before sleep, steeped for ten minutes in boiling water and strained. For specific blood cleansing formula, the following herbs are most valuable. Manjista (rubia cordifolia), is astringent and bitter with cooling virya and sweet vipak. Tridoshic in effect, Manjista detoxifies the liver and raktavahasrotas and is excellent for eczema, hives, psoriasis and acne. Neem (azadarachta indica), is bitter and pungent with cooling virya and pungent vipak. It is an outstanding blood cleanser and will flush the liver and biliary tree more effectively and safely than a "liver flush" program. It is excellent for skin conditions such as psoriasis, even when these have persisted for ten years or more with no response to medications and is also ideal to use for purifying the system after a fever. Harida or Turmeric (curcuma longa) is perhaps the most versatile and important medicinal herb in the world. Astringent and slightly pungent, with heating virya and pungent vipak, it is balancing to all three doshas, although in extreme excess it could increase pitta. Curcumin, its main bioactive component, has been shown to be anti-inflammatory,anti-allergic, antioxidant, antibacterial, antifungal, anti-cancer, antiviral, anti-protozooal, anti-coagulant, anti-venom, anti-hypotensive and anti-diabetic, to name only a few of its more outstanding actions. Many of the above-named actions correspond with its excellent blood cleansing action and effectiveness in rashes, hives, urticaria, bites and stings, eczema, acne and boils. Guduchi (tinospora cordifolia), is bitter, astringent and pungent with heating virya and sweet vipak. It is tridoshically balancing, is an important herb for the pacification of pitta, and has affinity for the liver and raktavahasrotas. It is excellent in anemia, jaundice, skin conditions, gout and other situations calling for rakta shodhan. Guduchi is a bitter alterative while simultaneously being an important tonic with good capacity to rejuvenate pitta. Thus Guduchi is an excellent choice where there is a need to reduce ama and cleanse the blood providing a rasayana effect for pitta.

A blood cleansing regimen should be applied for at least two weeks prior to pancha karma for best outcome. Rakta moksha or blood letting is also one of the five actions included in pancha karma, and can be substituted by an additional week of rakta shodhan herbs following the pancha karma therapies and before embarking on rejuvenation. Without pancha karma, blood cleansing should be done for a month in spring on a preventative basis or, in the case of a condition such as eczema, can be continued for as much as a month after remission of symptoms. Always, after a program of blood cleansing, some rejuvenation should be done--Chyavanprash would be a good choice for most individuals.

All products mentioned in this article are available from www.banyanbotanicals.com.

Pulse Reading as a Tool for Early Diagnosis of Cancer and Other Serious Diseases

2012-01-18T04:30:50Z

by Alakananda Devi (Alakananda Ma), M.B., B.S. (Lond.)

Introduction
In this paper we will present brief case histories demonstrating how medical testing validated pulse diagnosis. Using the system of pulse reading described in Secrets of the Pulse by Dr. Vasant Lad, we will indicate the original pulse reading, the Ayurvedic diagnosis based on that reading, the initial medical diagnosis and the definitive medical diagnosis based on surgery, biopsy or CAT scan. We will show how skillfully applied pulse diagnosis can be used to dispel needless fears, to prevent relapses and to provide a non-invasive method of early diagnosis of life threatening problems.

In using pulse reading as a tool for early diagnosis, we will frequently refer to a phenomenon known as gandhakal or, "indicator of critical time". Felt at the fifth level or dhatu pulse, this is an irregular quality of beat noted at a particular dhatu. The gandhakal may have either a vata, pitta or kapha quality. It is also possible to note a tridoshic gandhakal, which consists of three irregular beats endowed with the respective qualities of vata, pitta and kapha spikes. This tridoshic gandhakal is an important indicator of a malignancy or other tridoshic disorder in the relevant dhatu.

]]> Pulse reading as a tool for the early diagnosis of breast cancer
A fifty-year-old yoga teacher presented with a diagnosis of calcifications in the left breast. She had been having a mammogram every six months to monitor the calcifications. Currently, her physician had suggested a biopsy, as the calcifications appeared to be changing. She was reluctant to have the biopsy and was concerned about the frequency of mammography, a potentially carcinogenic investigation. Pulse reading indicated a prakruti of V3 P2 K2 with a vikruti of V4 P3 K2. There was a kapha spike in the rasa dhatu, consistent with fibrocystic breast changes (As an upadosha of rasa dhatu, the breast tissue is read at this level). There was no gandhakal in this or any dhatu. The absence of either generalized tridoshic provocation or a gandhakal indicated that there were no malignant or pre-malignant changes and the pulse reading was consistent with fibrocystic changes in the left breast. She was given a stanya shodan and vata-pacifying regime. Because pulse reading showed no evidence of malignancy, she was able to proceed with a three-day pancha karma.

After the pancha karma, she had a breast thermograph, a less invasive procedure than mammogram. This showed, "focal areas of hyperthermia at two o'clock in the left breast that warrants clinical correlation and close monitoring." A month later she finally decided to go ahead with biopsy. This showed "fibrocystic changes and moderate epithelial hyperplasia. There is no microcalcification." These benign changes were exactly as indicated in the pulse reading, which had provided less ambiguous information than either the mammogram or the thermograph. Further, the accuracy of the pulse reading had permitted her to do pancha karma with the confidence that there was no malignancy.

A forty-eight-year-old divorced single mother presented with two lumps between the axilla and the right breast. She had previously seen an Ayurvedic practitioner unfamiliar with pulse diagnosis, who had recommended a strenuous course of pancha karma. This situation was of grave concern as it is not standard practice to administer pancha karma in the presence of an active malignancy. She had not seen a medical doctor. Pulse reading showed a prakruti of V2 P3 K1 with a vikruti of V3 P4 K2. There was a tridoshic gandhakal in the rasa dhatu and in majja dhatu, as well as a gandhakal in mamsa. This was a particularly ominous reading. Both the overall tridoshic vikruti as well as the rasa gandhakal pointed to a malignancy of the breast tissue. The majja gandhakal indicated potential micro-metastasis to the CNS and the mamsa gandhakal suggested that the cancer was of an infiltrating nature. She was referred for immediate breast biopsy.

Biopsy, which showed malignancy, was immediately followed by lumpectomy. The pathologist's diagnosis was "Infiltrating ductal carcinoma, poorly differentiated, T2 N1 MX." She decided to do six months of chemotherapy, followed by radiation.

Following the chemotherapy, she presented for pulse diagnosis. This indicated vikruti of V3 P4 K2 with a tridoshic gandhakal in the rakta dhatu. Although some possible metastasis had been seen in the liver on CAT scan prior to chemotherapy, the CAT scan for the liver was now clear and tumor markers were normal. Nonetheless, pulse diagnosis pointed to a recurrent liver metastasis. After she took a course of anti-tumor herbs, this dissipated to a kapha gandhakal. Six months later ultrasound showed a spot on the liver too small to biopsy.The oncologist dismissed the likelihood that anything severe would develop in the liver within the next several months.

Tragically, she presented three months later, following an emotionally draining trip overseas to visit family, with a strong tridoshic gandhakal in the rakta dhatu and tridoshic provocation of the liver on organ pulse reading. There was now a large tumor in the liver, which rapidly led to her demise. The potential indicated months ago in the rakta pulse, though not in the CAT scan, had manifested.

Pulse Diagnosis in early detection of intra-cranial lesions
In the fall of 2000, a group from Alandi Ashram visited Rocky Mountain National Park, where two of our number were struck by lightening. One, a twenty-two-year-old male, prakruti V3 P1 K2, received a severe gash to his head. At Estes Park Hospital, the MD was concerned about the patient's altered state of consciousness and suspected an intra-cranial bleed. Pulse reading was performed and revealed a kapha gandhakal in the majja dhatu, a reading highly indicative of the formation of a subdural hematoma, since it suggested the onset of a benign space-occupying lesion of the brain. CAT scan was performed but detected nothing. For the next 35 days he had worsening throbbing headaches. He was referred to a medical clinic with a request for a repeat CAT scan. This was denied on the basis that the original CAT scan showed no abnormality. On the thirty-fifth day he had vikruti V4 P2 K2 with vata pushing pitta to the head. There was a kapha gandhakal in the majja dhatu. Later that day, he blacked out at work. The CAT scan was finally done and did indeed indicate a subdural hematoma pressing on the brain. Surgery was performed just in time to save his life. It is noteworthy how much more accurate both clinical observation and pulse reading were than the initial CAT scan. The hematoma was initially too small to be seen on CAT scan but was clearly indicated on Ayurvedic pulse reading. Over time, the slow bleed continued, eventually creating a mass large enough to be seen on CAT scan--and large enough to compress the brain-stem, with life-threatening impact.

A forty-five-year-old office manager presented with a twenty five-year history of benign pituitary tumor with raised prolactin levels. Although benign, a space-occupying lesion of this nature can press on the optic chiasm causing tunnel vision and eventual blindness. She had previously taken bromocryptine to control it. As she was uninsured, she did not wish to see an endocrinologist unnecessarily. Pulse reading indicated prakruti V3 P2 K2 with vikruti V4 P2.5 K2.5. There was both vata and kapha gandhakal in the majja dhatu. We felt that this situation justified immediate presentation to an endocrinologist, as her pituitary tumor had obviously recurred. Tests showed a raised prolactin level, verifying that the pituitary tumor had recurred. She was treated with bromocryptine, which gradually reduced both her prolactin level and the gandhakal. Within three months there was no further gandhakal and her prolactin levels were also normal.

A sixty-year-old disabled man presented with a history of seizures. MRI and CAT scan had apparently indicated mild hydrocephalus and no treatment had been recommended. He was on SSI for a diagnosed personality disorder. Pulse reading showed prakruti V1 P3 K3 with vikruti V2 P4 K4. There was a kapha gandhakal in the majja dhatu. Although he was undoubtedly a very difficult character, it was evident from the pulse findings that he had a brain disorder not a personality disorder. Herbal methods were utterly insufficient to relieve the symptoms of hydrocephalus and the gandhakal persisted as an indicator of the severity of his condition. Upon experiencing a further seizure he saw another neurologist who recommended immediate neurosurgery for insertion of a shunt. Following the shunt insertion there was no further gandhakal and his personality normalized. Once again, Ayurvedic pulse reading was an accurate indicator of the severity of a disorder of intra-cranial pressure.

Pulse diagnosis and Colon Cancer
A sixty-year-old bookkeeper presented after a stool test indicated blood in the stool. She had been a smoker most of her adult life. Colonoscopy had been recommended and she was wondering whether to proceed with this. Pulse diagnosis showed prakruti V1 P3 K3 with vikruti V1.5 P3.5 K 3.5. There was no gandhakal. Based on this pulse reading, there was no evidence of any current or imminent tumor. However, with generalized tridoshic provocation, there was a possibility that a malignancy could eventually develop. She was advised to proceed with colonoscopy, with the prediction that this would reveal a small polyp, which could eventually become malignant. Colonoscopy was performed and revealed two small polyps, which were excised. These were benign polyps, which had a one percent chance of eventually becoming malignant. In this example, pulse reading had a value in indicating the usefulness of colonoscopy in this case, while allaying needless fears while results were awaited.

A fifty-eight-year-old yoga teacher presented complaining of shortness of breath. She was worried about her lung capacity or heart. On examination, her extreme pallor was immediately apparent. Her prakruti was V3 P2 K2 with a vikruti of V4 P2 K2. There was a prominent gandhakal in both rasa and rakta dhatus. It was difficult to determine whether this was kapha or tridoshic in quality. It was concluded, based on the pallor, her age and the gandhakal that she was bleeding from a rectal polyp or carcinoma. Even though she did not show tridoshic provocation of prakruti, the likelihood was, given the strength of gandhakal and the amount of apparent blood loss, that the source was a colon cancer.

She was recommended for immediate full blood count and fecal occult blood testing. Her hemoglobin came back at 7.5, indicating severe anemia and occult blood was positive. Colonoscopy was performed, revealing a colon cancer, which was excised. There was no indication of any metastasis. Although any diligent practitioner of any form of medicine would probably have reached the same conclusion based on clinical criteria alone, without the help of pulse reading, she remains convinced that Ayurveda saved her life. This has increased her willingness to follow through with Ayurvedic treatments. This case history also illustrates the importance of supporting pulse diagnosis with clinical criteria to obtain the most accurate diagnosis possible.

Needless Fears Allayed
A fifty one-year-old body worker, prakruti V1 P3 K3, had been receiving Ayurvedic support for some years for help with hypertension, raised triglycerides and hypothyroidism. He now presented with exopthalmos in the left eye. He was scheduled for MRI and had been told by his MD that there was a significant likelihood that the exopthalmos was due to a malignant tumor. The fear thus generated was tending to increase his blood pressure and hence the likelihood of a stroke. His vikruti was V2 P3 K4, with kapha in the thyroid pulse and no gandhakal in any dhatu. Based on this pulse reading he was assured that malignancy was unlikely, since there was neither tridoshic provocation in the vikruti nor any gandhakal. Thyroid pathology was indicated by this and previous pulse readings and was the likely cause of the exopthalmos. In confirmation of this conclusion, MRI showed "fusiform enlargement of the inferior rectus muscles bilaterally, left greater than right. Distribution of the disease suggests Graves opthalmopathy is the most likely etiology." In other words, the exopthalmos was indeed due to the thyroid condition and not to a tumor. Punarnava eyewash was recommended for this condition, with good results.

Conclusion
These examples, culled from among many similarly striking case histories, give an indication of the value of Ayurvedic pulse reading in determining when symptoms give genuine cause for alarm. Needless fears may be allayed and life-saving treatment initiated as a result of skillfully applied pulse diagnosis. Although analysis of this depth and accuracy clearly requires a good degree of both skill and experience in using the technique, this is something that can be acquired by any diligent person. No extra-ordinary siddhis or clairvoyant powers are required, nor are any invasive procedures. Thus the well-skilled Ayurvedic practitioner is able to make a significant contribution to the safe, non-invasive diagnosis of cancer, space-occupying lesions and other serious disorders.

Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome

2012-01-18T03:56:01Z

by Alakananda Devi (Alakananda Ma), M.B., B.S. (Lond.)

In a previous article we surveyed the field of female infertility. In this article we will look more deeply into one of the most common causes of menstrual irregularity, hormonal imbalances and infertility, a grouping of symptoms known as polycystic ovarian syndrome. We will see how Ayurveda brings added depth to the understanding of this poorly understood condition and can offer treatment options that are more than merely symptomatic.

With a prevalence of 6-10% of the female population, PCOS is a common cause of morbidity, infertility and quite possibly of increased risk of mortality. (1) PCOS is a syndrome characterized by multiple small cysts on the ovaries, menstrual irregularities and features of excess androgen production such as hirsutism (excess facial or body hair), male or female pattern balding, acanthosis nigrans and acne. Not all women affected with PCOS have all thee features but to make a diagnosis of PCOS, at least two of these three characteristics must be present. In terms of menstrual irregularity, menses may be irregular; there may be oligomenorrhoea (reduced frequency of menstruation) or amenorrhoea (periods of six months or more without menstruation). Menstrual irregularity is noted from menarche on. As one menopausal patient noted, "First I was told that my periods were irregular because I was young, then because I was under stress in school, then because I was travelling and then because I was premenopausal. From the day of menarche, my periods were never regular."

]]> While not all women with PCOS have menstrual irregularity, those who do not must have both other sets of characteristics fully established in order to meet diagnostic criteria for PCOS. Typical androgenic features may include sideburn or chin hair, chest or belly hair, nipple hair, balding, acne and acanthosis nigrans, a darkening of skin on the nape of their neck, skin folds, knuckles, or elbows. If there are more intense symptoms of excess androgens such as enlarged clitoris, baldness, dropped voice and increased muscle mass, referral to an endocrinologist is needed to exclude other, more dangerous diseases that may lead to excess testosterone production. Polycystic ovaries must be established by ultrasound. Again, while not all PCOS sufferers actually have polycystic ovaries, those who do not must clearly show menstrual irregularities and hyper-androgenic features.

As well as these diagnostic features, PCOS is associated with obesity, particularly central obesity, insulin resistance, hypertension, raised blood lipids and metabolic syndrome. After a girlhood of menstrual problems and adult years of fertility issues, a woman with PCOS may enter her elder years with an increased risk of type II diabetes and heart disease (2). Yet despite the added mortality and morbidity associated with this condition, for many women, the most devastating feature of PCOS is its impact on fertility. Although not all women with PCOS experience fertility issues, many do. Conception may be difficult to impossible or there may be a history of miscarriages. For those who do become pregnant, there is an increased risk of gestational diabetes and hypertension.

After hearing these features of PCOS, the Ayurvedic practitioner has noticed the strong correlation with kapha issues. Although there may be pitta features such as acne and hair loss or vata features like menstrual irregularity, it is kapha that lies at the root of this syndrome. By the same token, although PCOS may affect any prakruti, as a kapha condition it is typically most severe in kapha prakruti. A majority of all women with PCOS seen in the author's practice have been of kapha prakruti.

A woman with PCOS may present complaining of hirsutism, acne, obesity or menstrual and fertility issues. In making a diagnosis of kapha syndrome with suspected PCOS, it is important to exclude other causes of similar issues. For example, a thirty two year old Indian woman of tridoshic vata constitution presented to an Ayurvedic physician complaining of hair loss, weight gain, acne, sluggishness and fertility issues. Her menstrual cycle was regular. The physician diagnosed PCOS, based on her reported symptoms. While booking an ultrasound to screen her ovaries, she presented for a second opinion. Based on her complaints of sluggishness, weight gain, hair loss and impaired fertility as well as clinical findings of leathery skin and abnormal thyroid pulse, we told her that thyroid issues were the likely cause of her complaints. Sure enough, her ultrasound showed normal ovaries, excluding the diagnosis of PCOS since she had both normal ovaries and a normal menstrual cycle. She unearthed three old thyroid tests all of which showed sub-optimal thyroid function. Although she did have some kapha syndrome issues, these were expressing more in terms of metabolic rate and the thyroid than in terms of PCOS. She was fortunate to have a treatable cause of her fertility concerns.

A thirty year old Ashkenazi Jewish woman of kapha prakruti complained of central obesity, dropped voice, facial hirsutism, amenorrhoea and infertility. Polycystic ovaries were shown on ultrasound. She had other kapha symptoms including chronic sinus congestion and was allergic to dairy. Although a vegan diet was a crucial self-care method for her, she found that exercise including strength training and cardio made the greatest difference to her symptoms, particularly to central obesity. Her journey with infertility was a tortuous one. After two devastating failed in-vitro fertilizations, she was able to carry a child successfully after IVF but could not establish lactation, a not-uncommon finding in PCOS (3). Nevertheless, she is happy with her precious baby.

A twenty seven year old kapha African-American woman had polycystic ovaries demonstrated by ultrasound. Eight years ago, she had one pregnancy which was complicated by hypertension and oedema. She had a strong family history of hypertension and raised blood lipids and was a former smoker. Two years ago, she was found to be hypertensive with raised cholesterol. She normalized these parameters by quitting smoking, exercising and giving up cheese. Currently she had significant hirsutism with sideburn hair, beard and moustache hair and belly hair and was suffering from irregular menses, overweight and malaise. At 165 lb she was 20 lb over her optimum. She responded extremely well to a kapha-soothing diet and to a formula which included Punarnava as dosha pratyanika for kapha, Shardunika to help insulin production and Chitrak for agni. Shilajit is a crucial component in the herbal management of PCOS, so clients will respond well to a formula which contains shilajit, such as Trim Support, as well as to a blend containing Shardunika, such as Sweet Ease.

A thirty seven year old Caucasian woman of kapha prakruti presented with an array of kapha complaints including sluggish digestion, plugged ears and chronic sinusitis. She had experienced amenorrhoea since her teens, menstruating only once a year and was developing female pattern baldness. Ten years ago she had an ultrasound and was found to have polycystic ovaries. She had also been diagnosed with insulin resistance. Currently she took depot provera which induced a period every 45 days. She had a strong tendency to gain weight. She was married and experiencing infertility. She tried to prepare healthy foods at home but had lunch most days at McDonald's, Burger King or Taco Bell. After switching to a kapha soothing diet and eliminating gluten and cow dairy, she improved significantly. And amazingly, after taking Trim Support and Triphala, she became pregnant. Yet the sweeping extent of her kapha syndrome turned joy to tears when she gave birth to a stillborn child as a result of multiple thromboses in the placenta. As a complication of PCOS, she suffered from thrombophilia--a tendency of the blood to clot in the blood vessels. Current research suggests that thrombophilia plays a key role in stillbirth and miscarriage in patients with PCOS. "Undetected thrombophilia is not only additional cause of infertility but sometimes the basic cause of infertility in patients with PCOS and MS (metabolic syndrome)." (4)

This patient had difficulty implementing a full program of Ayurvedic treatments due to an extremely busy life as a business owner. Her history reminds us of the importance of treating kapha at depth, including diet, lifestyle, kapha soothing herbs and pre-conception panchakarma, in an attempt to promote a positive outcome of pregnancy in PCOS. A rejuvenative and hormonally balancing formula such as Women's Support can be given following panchakarma to enhance fertility. During pregnancy, herbs such as Vidari should be given to nourish the placenta as well as kapha reducing herbs to lower stickiness of the blood and control kapha syndrome. Since Ashwagandha may be androgenic in action, it is wise to avoid using it in PCOS.

In Western medicine, there is no definitive treatment for PCOS. Management is largely symptomatic. Ayurveda can make a significant contribution to the wellbeing of women with PCOS by offering kapha soothing diet and lifestyle, kapha balancing yoga and kapha soothing herbs. Blood sugar and insulin resistance issues can be managed using Shardunika, neem, turmeric, bibhitaki and Sweet Ease, while scraping formulas like Trim Support will not only help lower weight but also may normalize the polycystic ovaries. Triphala Guggulu and turmeric will reduce blood stickiness, mitigating symptoms of thrombophilia (note that neither of these herbs is recommended during pregnancy). Vidari will support fertility and nourish the placenta. And panchakarma will normalize kledak kapha, helping to reduce thrombotic symptoms. Developing a good programme of self-care for kapha will not only help support the best possible outcomes during the woman's reproductive years but will also help prevent her developing diabetes and heart disease later in life.

Andrea J. Cussons, Bronwyn G. A. Stuckey and Gerald F. Watts1 Metabolic syndrome and cardiometabolic risk in PCOS Current Diabetes Reports, 2007 -springer link
Polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS): a significant contributor to the overall burden of type 2 diabetes in women.Talbott EO, Zborowski JV, Rager JR, Kip KE, Xu X, Orchard TJ.J Womens Health (Larchmt). 2007 Mar;16(2):191-7
Lisa Marasco, BA, IBCLC089033440001600211Polycystic Ovary Syndrome: A Connection to Insufficient Milk Supply? Journal of Human Lactation, Vol. 16, No. 2, 143-148 (2000) DOI: 10.1177/
Perederyaeva EB, Pshenichnikova TB, Makatsaria AD. INHERITED AND ACQUIRED THROMBOPHILIA IN PATIENTS WITH METABOLIC SYNDROME IN OBSTETRIC-GYNECOLOGIC PRACTICE. J Thromb Haemost 2007; 5 Supplement 2: P-T-608

All products mentioned in this article are available from www.banyanbotanicals.com.

Pandemic Influenza: An Ayurvedic Perspective

2012-01-17T00:57:35Z

by Alakananda Devi (Alakananda Ma), M.B., B.S. (Lond.)

Recorded talk by Alakananda on Pandemic Influenza

Influenza viruses responsible for causing pandemics are influenza A viruses which emerge as a result of a process called "antigenic shift" causing sudden, major change in certain proteins on the surface of the influenza A virus. This change is great enough that the body's immune system finds the new virus unrecognizable. Unlike seasonal or epidemic flu--which causes mortality mainly in elderly or sick subjects--pandemic flu kills young, healthy adults with strong immune systems. The 1919 Spanish flu pandemic killed 20-100 million people--a much greater lethality than WWI. This was caused by a type of H1N1 virus. The virus currently originating in Mexico is also an H1N1, which has mutated to a form never seen before. A vaccine has not been developed for this new virus and there is no certainty that existing flu vaccines will provide protection.

Much of the severity of pandemic flu may result from over-reactivity of the immune system, a process known as 'cytokine storm' which results in severe lung damage and ultimately necrolysis of the vital organs. In this situation it is vital to avoid immune stimulants such as Echinacea or Immune Support which are so valuable in epidemic and sporadic influenza. Honey should not be used for the same reason. Turmeric is the ideal herb to use in this situation since it will both fight the virus and calm the immune response. Tulsi and neem will be valuable for the same reasons.

]]> DO

Wash your hands frequently. Ideally, use neem soap and hot water
Reduce the level of toxins in your body by practising food combining (see below) and agni rules (see below)
At the first sign of flu, stay home, fast, drink plenty and consult a doctor
Stock up immediately on food, drinking water, and Ayurvedic herbs. In a pandemic situation, there will be store closures and supply issues
Have a supply of candles, matches and ready-to-eat foods. There might be power grid disruptions due to lack of workers
Have a supply of cash. There may be bank closures or transportation issues
Have a supply of antiseptic substances to sanitize your home and office (e.g. peroxide, tea tree oil)
Sanitize telephones and keyboards. Viruses can survive for a long while outside the body
Have a supply of facial tissues and pedal bins for their disposal
Get a mask to use when you go out. Get it now
Use a mask when nursing, tending or assisting someone who is coughing or sneezing
Avoid mass gatherings
If you feel sick, take zinc lozenges
If you feel sick, drink turmeric and tulsi tea
Get myrrh or boswellia to burn for fumigating your home
Fumigate your home daily
Practice agnihotra to help purify your home
Use your own pen. Some folks chew pens or may not have washed their hands before use

DON'T directly touch door handles in public bathrooms. Use a paper towel.
DON'T go near people who are coughing or sneezing.
DON'T go out and about if you are coughing and sneezing.
DON'T eat junk food or white sugar--it will predispose you to get sick.
DON'T take immune stimulants if you are sick. These include Echinacea, honey and chocolate.
DON'T use telephones used by others--unless you sanitize the mouthpiece and wash your hands after use.
DON'T use pens used by others (e.g. at the bank or grocery store).

Knowledge is power. The more we know about how to prevent and manage pandemic flu, the better we can help ourselves and others. Ignorance breeds fear and panic. Epidemics remind us of impermanence and help us become aware of what truly matters. Please use this article to be prepared, act wisely, and come from love, not fear. We can use this opportunity to pull together and develop community, altruism, and sharing of our gifts.

Food Combining Guidelines

Remember to allow three hours between meals for digestion to complete itself and to avoid toxic buildup in your tissues.

MILK is incompatible with:
Legumes
Meat
Fish
Vegetables
Grains (except rice pudding)

YOGURT is incompatible with:
Milk
Sour
Fruits
Mangoes
Bananas
Hot Drinks
Meat
Fish
Cheese

EGGS are incompatible with:
Milk
Yogurt
Meat
Cheese
Fish
Fruits

VEGETABLES are incompatible with:
Milk
Fruits

NIGHTSHADES (Potato, Tomato, Eggplant, Chilies) are incompatible with:
Yogurt
Milk

HONEY is incompatible with:
Yogurt
Ghee (in equal weight proportions)
Heating or cooking

FRUITS are incompatible with:
Meat
Fish
Eggs
Yogurt
Legumes
Starches
Cheese
Vegetables
Melons
* Fruits are incompatible with other foods because they require a different metabolic pathway. One should allow at least one hour digestion time for fruit before partaking of other foods.

STARCHES are incompatible with:
Eggs
Chai
Milk
Bananas
Dates
Persimmons

LEMON is incompatible with:
Yogurt
Milk
Cucumbers
Tomatoes

MELONS are incompatible with:
Everything (including other melons)

PEANUT BUTTER is incompatible with:
Jelly

Caring for your Digestive Fire

(Agni Rules)

Eat food at room temperature or slightly above
Allow three hours between meals to allow digestion to be complete before adding new food to the system.
Don't drink and eat at the same time. Drink a half hour before or two hours after eating.
Use proper food combining
Relax after eating to allow for proper digestion
Don't eat and then sleep--wait two hours
Don't eat and then exercise--wait two hours
Don't eat and then meditate--leave one hour
Follow the diet appropriate to your constitution and the season

Memory: Prevention and Management of Age-related Cognitive Decline

2012-01-17T00:33:13Z

by Alakananda Devi (Alakananda Ma), M.B., B.S. (Lond.)

Thanks to your wholesome remedies, O God, May I attain the span of a hundred winters! Drive far away from us all hatreds and troubles Scatter to the four winds every sort of sickness. (1)

All of us have a desire for longevity, yet we wish to see old age with a sound body and mind. Age related cognitive decline, also known as mild cognitive impairment (MCI) or age associated memory impairment (AAMI) is a prevalent condition (recent estimates vary from 18% to 85%) that robs the 'golden years' of their glory. (2)

Beginning at around age fifty, or, for women, at menopause, our elder years usher in the vata time of life, with accompanying neurological impairments that can range from mild memory loss to full-blown Alzheimer's or Parkinson's Disease. Memory loss in general can arise from vata, pitta, kapha or toxic causes, even though the end result is vitiation of prana vayu in the central nervous system.

]]> Vata causes of memory loss include trauma, stress, head injury, sleep deprivation, B vitamin deficiency and ageing. Pitta causes include depression and infectious diseases such as HIV, TB, syphilis and herpes. Among kapha causes are hypothyroidism, obesity, diabetes and metabolic syndrome. Toxic causes include alcoholism, illicit drug use and some medications, such as statins, anti-depressants, sleeping pills, anti-histamines, tranquillizers, anti-psychotics and opiates. While some of these causes, such as head injury, depression, infections, and hypothyroidism are specific conditions in their own right, others combine to make up the degenerative pattern of MCI. Age related cognitive decline or MCI is a multi-factorial condition that appears to be related to stress, excess blood lipids, sedentary lifestyle, poor nutrition, overweight and metabolic syndrome. As such, MCI is extremely susceptible to the holistic approach of Ayurveda. Ayurvedic geriatrics, also known as Rasayana Tantra, consists not in the study of how to manage senile elders in nursing homes, but rather in the science of rejuvenation leading to a healthy old age.

"From promotive treatment one attains longevity, memory, intelligence, freedom from disorders, youthful age, excellence of lustre, complexion and voice...Rasayana means the way for attaining excellent rasa etc."

Diagnosing Memory Loss
Many clients over forty five are concerned about their memory deteriorating, particularly if they have a parent with Alzheimers Disease (AD). Hence it is important for the practitioner to be able to distinguish clinically significant memory loss, and to reassure the client if this does not appear to be present. According to the FDA website, a typical line of questioning could include, "

What kinds of things are you forgetting?" It is quite normal to forget the name of a person you met recently and briefly or to forget some parts of a conversation, as opposed to forgetting the conversation ever occurred or forgetting the name of someone you know well.

"How often do your memory lapses happen?" Any of us might miss an appointment once in a while or occasionally forget where we parked. It's a different matter if this is a common occurrence.

"Does memory loss disrupt daily living?" If memory loss is interfering with normal daily activities that we could previously perform, it is clinically significant memory loss.

"Is your memory progressively deteriorating?" Progressive memory loss should always be evaluated.

If there is no evidence of clinically significant memory loss, it is most likely a simple case of vata provocation. If clinical memory loss appears to be present, consider all potential causes including previous head injury, recent trauma, medications, possible undiagnosed diabetes and undiagnosed hypothyroidism. Progressive memory loss could indicate a serious pathology such as a brain tumour, myxodema or severe untreated diabetes, and requires medical evaluation. As an example, a seventy five year old Episcopalian lay reader began repeating herself in sermons and forgetting the order of service. Convinced she was 'becoming demented,' she resigned her post. Her symptoms later turned out to be due to undiagnosed diabetes. Once she was medicated for diabetes, her memory and cognitive functions returned. Only if other significant causes are absent should a diagnosis of MCI be made. In that event, it is best to implement a balanced Ayurvedic program to address the condition.

Diet and lifestyle adjustments for MCI
When I leave the rarefied atmosphere of Boulder to do Ayurvedic consultations in localities such as Iowa, Nebraska or Minnesota, I realise that the majority of Americans live on sugary cold cereal, hamburgers, French fries, subway sandwiches, M&Ms and ice cream, with the occasional 'healthy' meal of meat and potatoes. Such a diet, high in sugars, refined flour, salt and saturated fat, is depleted of major nutrients such as B vitamins and is almost calculated to create MCI, diabetes and obesity in susceptible subjects. The first step is to introduce the basic healthy diet, including a protein breakfast, a main meal with whole grains, vegetables and either fish or vegetable proteins, some fresh fruits and some nuts and seeds for snacks and a lighter dinner such as a soup.

Once your client learns to eat items you would recognize as food, you can introduce more advanced concepts such as a vata soothing diet to support memory. At this point you can also provide some recipes for dals and kitcheri such as those in Ayurvedic Cooking for Self Healing by Vasant Lad. It is essential to get as much organic high quality Turmeric into the diet as possible. "Curcumin as an antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and lipophilic action improves the cognitive functions" (4) in patients with MCI or AD. Caffeinated beverages can be replaced by herbal tea prepared from Tulsi, which plays a vital role in improving memory and cognitive functioning, (5) and should be consumed on a daily basis by anyone who has memory loss issues.

Regular self-massage with Sesame Oil, Vata Massage Oil or the appropriate massage oil for prakruti will help balance vata and thus support memory. Exercise should include new and challenging forms of movement, so starting a yoga practice is highly recommended. It is never too late to take up yoga. When I resided at Christa Prema Seva Ashram in 1980 I practised Iyengar yoga every day with an octogenarian nun who had recently taken to asana practice. Toxins contributing to memory loss, such as alcohol consumption or drug use should be gradually eliminated via lifestyle counselling procedures

Rehabilitative Adjustments
At a recent consultation, a patient with memory loss issues was equipped with a notebook, calendar and pen carefully rubber banded together and kept in a prominent place in her purse. Another client who had MCI had a list displayed inside his front door,

Stove burners off?
Back door locked?
Got keys?
Wallet?

These individuals present examples of good rehabilitation. The American Academy of Family Physicians recommends making lists, keeping a detailed calendar, putting important items in consistent places, repeating names when meeting new people and making associations as a memory aid.

Retirement may be a significant cause of MCI. While stress at work can certainly contribute to memory loss, lack of challenge and stimulation can also lead to accelerated decline. Encourage retirees to take classes, get involved in causes as a volunteer, and to do activities to exercise the mind. One stroke victim who struggled with speech and writing found Sudoku number placement puzzles to be a helpful rehabilitative tool. From retirement to the empty nest to death of elders who formerly needed their care, elders in their vata time of life are faced with multiple losses of purpose. Through meditation, retreat, or active imagination and journal exercises, elders can discover a new purpose to energize the latter part of their life. From an astrological standpoint, the second Saturn Return at age fifty eight is an ideal time for such exploration.

Herbal Therapies
Current studies relate MCI to a variety of neurodegenerative processes including reduced levels of acetyl choline in the brain, (6) reduced dopamine, (7) disorders of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis and consequent lowered DHEA levels (8). Many of these processes may be related to oxidative stress (9) and an inflammatory situation in the brain. (10)

The ancient science of Rasayana Tantra offers many herbs which have now been found to act on these degenerative processes. Thus rather than taking supplemental DHEA or levodopa, clients can take Ayurvedic herbs which actually restore the body's inherent ability to manufacture these compounds endogenously. Ashwagandha is a pre-eminent anti-ageing and memory supporting herb which supports normal hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis (HPA) function and hence raises production of DHEA, produced by the adrenals. (11) In addition, 'recent research suggests that ashwagandha enhances cholinergic activity in the brain.'(12). Tulsi likewise enhances cholinergic activity.(5) Kapi Kacchu can 'restore the endogenous levodopa, dopamine, norepinephrine and serotonin content in the substantia nigra' of the brain, (13) having effective action particularly on the cognitive and motor aspects of Parkinson's Disease, but also affecting the disease process in MCI. Brahmi has been shown to be effective in combating oxidative stress (14), while Bacopa reduces brain inflammation. (15) Other herbs traditionally used in Ayurveda to improve memory include Vidari, Shankhapushpi and Licorice. Containing many of these memory-enlacing herbs, Mental Clarity can be used to support clients with MCI, while Stress Ease might be preferred where excess stress is seen to be a significant factor. Chyavanprash is scientifically formulated according to Rasayana Tantra to alleviate issues of advancing age, including memory loss, and is a palatable way to get daily doses of nervine herbs such as Ashwagandha and Vidari. "By using this rasayana the extremely old Chyavana regained youthful age....even the old attain intellect, memory, and luster." (16) Chyavanprash is most effective when used following pancha karma. (16)

As we have seen, it is important to diagnose memory loss carefully. MCI can be diagnosed when other conditions causing memory loss are excluded, and is extremely susceptible to a holistic approach combining diet and lifestyle modifications, rehabilitative measures, appropriate pancha karma therapies and herbal therapies. The herbs discussed in Rasayana Tantra have bee nfound to address the root causes of memory loss within the brain and hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis.

Rudra, Rig Veda II 33, from Raimondo Pannikar, The Vedic Experience, Motilal Barnasidass 1977 p 285
Hänninen, Tuomo Age-associated memory impairment. A neuropsychological and epidemiological study. Series of Reports, No 39, Department of Neurology, University of Kuopio. 1996. 86 p. + appendix
Charaka Samhita, Chikitsansthanam Ch 1 v7-8 trP.v. Sharma, Chaukambha Orientalia, Varanasi 1994
Shrikant Mishra, Kalpana Palanivelu The effect of curcumin (turmeric) on Alzheimer's disease: An overview Annals of Indian Academy of Neurology 2008 Vol 11, 1, 13-19
H Joshi, M Parle Cholinergic basis of memory improving effectof Ocimum tenuiflorum linn Ind. J Pharmaceutical sci. 2006 Vol. 68, 3, 364-365
Alvin V. Terry, Jr. 1* Jerry J. Buccafusco The Cholinergic Hypothesis of Age and Alzheimer's Disease Related Cognitive Deficits Journal of Pharmacology And Experimental Therapeutics June 12, 2003; DOI10.1124/jpet.102.041616
Nora D. Volkow, M.D., Ruben C. Gur, et al, Association Between Decline in Brain Dopamine Activity With Age and Cognitive and Motor Impairment in Healthy Individuals Am J Psychiatry155:344-349, March 1998
Ettore Ferrari Daniela Casarotti, et al, Age-related changes of the adrenal secretory pattern: possible role in pathological brain agingBrain Research Reviews Volume 37, Issues 1-3, November 2001, Pages 294-300
William R. Markesbery Oxidative Stress Hypothesis in Alzheimer's Disease Free Radical Biology and Medicine Volume 23, Issue 1, 1997, Pages 134-147,
E Tarkowski1, N Andreasen, et al, Intrathecal inflammation precedes development of Alzheimer's disease Journal of Neurology Neurosurgery and Psychiatry 2003;74:1200-1205
James Rouse, N.D. Herbal Support for Adrenal FunctionCNI609 6/98 Clinical Nutrition Insights
Sudhir S, et al. Pharmacological studies on leaves of Withania somnifera. Planta Med 1986:61-63.
Manyam, B. V., Dhanasekaran, M., Hare, T. A. Neuroprotective effects of the antiparkinson drug Mucuna pruriens Phytotherapy Research, 2004 (Vol. 18) (No. 9) 706-712
MH Veerendra Kumar and YK Gupta Effect of Centella asiatica on cognition and oxidative stress Clinical and Experimental Pharmacology and Physiology Volume 30 Issue 5-6, Pages 336-342
Russo A, Izzo A, Borrelli F, et al. Free radical scavenging capacity and protective effect of Bacopa L. on DNA damage monniera Phytotherapy Res 2003;17:870-875
Charaka Samhita, Chikitsansthanam Ch 1 v74 trP.v. Sharma, Chaukambha Orientalia, Varanasi 1994

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Male Fertility

2012-01-16T23:57:22Z

by Alakananda Devi (Alakananda Ma), M.B., B.S. (Lond.)

The man alone without progeny looks like a tree with only one branch... He is a lamp in a picture, a pond dried up. (1)

The dismal picture Charak paints of the infertile male is an image many a man suffering from infertility may have of himself. Approximately 15% of couples are infertile (defined as failure to conceive after a year of unprotected sex) and about half of these cases are due to male infertility(2.3) Sperm counts appear to have declined significantly over the last thirty years. Yet according to a study by Norwich Union healthcare, men perceived fertility as being a female issue, even though in fact as many as 9% of men in the UK may be infertile.

In a previous article we discussed potency and erectile dysfunction. Potency refers to the ability to obtain and sustain an erection and fertility to the ability to ejaculate semen with adequate sperm count, quality and motility. Hence it is possible for a man to be potent but infertile and vice versa, although both potency and fertility are needed for unassisted conception. In this article we will look at issues of fertility and sperm count.

Male infertility can have an array of causes:

At the level of the brain and hypothalamus
At the level of the pituitary
At the level of the testes
At the level of the epididymis or urethra

]]> Many complex conditions requiring or resulting from major medical or surgical interventions may lead to male infertility. We will confine our discussion to causes that may present to an Ayurvedic practitioner and that may be susceptible to simple lifestyle changes and Ayuvedic therapeutics.

The most common congenital cause of male infertility is Klinefelter Syndrome. This is an XXY chromosomal anomaly affecting one in 500 men. Patients with Klinefelter may be unusually tall, with lack of facial hair, gynaecomastia, learning issues and a shy, gentle personality. Typically the Klinefelter patient presenting as an adult to an Ayurvedic practitioner has already been diagnosed earlier, due to late onset of puberty, and has been treated with androgenic hormones. Although these treatments help male sexual development, men with Klinefelter typically remain infertile due to oligospermia or aoospermia (low or non-existent sperm count). They may be able to father children with advanced technology such as intracytoplasmic sperm injection.

Ayurveda cannot cure Klinefelter because it is a congenital condition. However, those with Klinefelter who have oligospermia rather than azoospermia may be helped by vajikarana herbs to increase libido and sperm count. It is worth noting that Charak recommends goats testes boiled in milk(1), i.e. treatment with exogenous testosterone. Couples with a Klineflter male are often desperate and grasping at straws. It is important to be clear and straightforward regarding what Ayurveda can and cannot do for them. There are vaidyas in India who build their reputations on Klinefelter fertility cures, often involving rasa shastra or mercury containing substances. Due caution should be advised.

Infectious causes of male factor infertility include diseases that lead to testicular atrophy, such as mumps, as well as infections like gonorrhoea that lead to epidydimal blockage. Chlamydia, a common STD, is now understood to be associated with low sperm count.(4) Where an infectious disease such as mumps has atrophied the testes, vajkarana herbs may be of assistance, depending upon how far the atrophy has gone and whether it may still be reversible. Epidydimal blockage may require surgery but may also be susceptible to lekhan (scraping) herbs such as turmeric (of proven effectiveness), yogaraj guggulu and shilajit.(5) Chlamydial infertility typically reverses once the infection is resolved and so could be addressed using anti-infective herbs like turmeric and neem.

Occupational and environmental causes of low sperm count include pesticide exposure, solvent exposure, heavy metals such as lead, mercury and cadmium, and ionizing radiation.(6). Hence agricultural workers, greenhouse staff and industrial workers are at risk for male factor infertility, as well as chemists, house painters and artists. As always in the Ayurvedic approach, it is first important to identify and remove the cause and then only to institute the relevant treatment. Although not all affected industrial, chemical, construction and agricultural personnel may be able to undergo a career change, some may be able to shift to a less toxic version, such as organic instead of industrial agriculture or watercolour instead of oil paint. Others who are locked into such careers may heed advice about protective clothing, use of respirators, better ventilation at the jobsite and showering and changing clothes as soon as they get home, all of which will at least modify their level of exposure. Once potential causative factors are addressed as well as possible, panchakarma should be undertaken to remove toxins from shukra dhatu, followed by rasayana and vajikarana treatments.

Excess heat exposure is another important occupational factor affecting not only bakers, welders, ceramics workers and metal workers but also men with sedentary jobs or hobbies. (7) Being seated for long periods affects scrotal thermoregulation, a factor that is pertinent for office and computer personnel, taxi and truck drivers, bicyclers and internet addicts. Tight clothing and underwear similarly are important in blocking scrotal thermoregulation, while a sedentary job plus tight clothing provides compounding factors.(7). Advise use of loose-fitting cotton or wool clothing and frequent standing or short walks to allow scrotal temperatures to normalize, and offer vajikarana herbs.

Lifestyle and prajnaparadh play an important role in male factor infertility and are readily susceptible to Ayurvedic lifestyle counselling. Cellular phones are a known cause of deficient shukra dhatu (3), so it is extremely important to advise men not to wear their phone or pager on their belt or in a pants pocket. Body mass index is related to male factor infertility, probably because adipocytes secrete oestrogen. A body mass index of 26 and above has been found to carry a higher incidence of male infertility. (8). Smoking cigarettes has been shown to lower sperm count, although there is no evidence to implicate cigarette smoking as a sole cause of infertility. It should be considered as a remediable cofactor where there are additional male or female factor causes of subfertility.(9) Similarly, marijuana smoking can lower fertility by reducing sperm motility--a fine example of the long term tamasic and kaphagenic effects of marijuana! (10). Excess alcohol consumption has been established as an independent cause of male infertility.(11). Stress is also a cause of lowered fertility. Given the prevailing male ethos--hard drinking, smoking, heavy eating, cell phone on the belt, tight jeans, it is interesting to note how many things that have become associated with manliness actually have a negative effect on the male's basic instinct of sperm survival. Again, the first step is to remove the lifestyle factor that is causing or contributing to infertility. If you would like to review Banyan Vine archival articles addressing alcohol, smoking, marijuana and weight issues, click here. After addressing the cause, panchakarma should be done to remove residual toxins, followed by rasayana and vajikarana therapies.

Herbs traditionally used for vajikarana and shukrak purposes(1) include kapi kacchu, which has been found to increase sperm concentration and motility, (12), Gokshura, which raises testosterone levels (13), Ashwagandha, which enhances spermatogenesis via a presumed testosterone-like effect (14), Shatavari, which appears to enhance fertility by reducing oxidative stress (15), licorice, found to improve semen quality (16), pippali and Vidari. These should be given with milk as anupan or combined with a vajikarana diet that includes urad dal, milk, basmati rice, wheat, ghee, honey and for non vegetarians, chicken soup and fish. Mens Support provides a god combination of vajikarana herbs. Thus by addressing simple lifestyle factors and providing vajikrana remedies offered in the Ayurvedic texts,the Ayurvedic opractitioner can help male clients optimize their fertility. An thus increase wellbeing.

"Pleasure, strength, happiness...and contentment depend on progeny" (1)

Charak Samhita, tr PV Sharma, Chaukkhambha Orientalia, Chikitsasthanam Ch 2.
Fábio Firmbach Pasqualotto; Antônio Marmo Lucon; Bernardo Passos Sobreiro; Rev. Hosp. Clin. vol.59 no.6 São Paulo 2004Effects of medical therapy, alcohol, smoking, and endocrine disruptors on male infertility
EVALUATION OF THE EFFECT OF USING MOBILE PHONES ON MALE FERTILITYArtur Wdowiak1, Leszek Wdowiak2, 3, Henryk Wiktor1 Ann Agric Environ Med 2007, 14, 169-172
Chlamydia trachomatis infection in male partners of infertile couples: incidence and sperm function. Andrologia. 34(3):155-161, June 2002. Vigil, P. 1; Morales, P. 2; Tapia, A. 1; Riquelme, R. 1; Salgado, A. M
The anti-inflammatory compound curcumin inhibits Neisseria gonorrhoeae-induced NF-[kappa]B signaling, release of pro- inflammatory cytokines/chemokines and attenuates adhesion in late infection. CELL BIOLOGY AND SIGNALING Biological Chemistry. 386(5):481-490, May 2005.Wessler, Silja 1,a; Muenzner, Petra 2,a; Meyer, Thomas F. 3; Naumann, Michael 4,*
Human Reproduction, Vol. 16, No. 8, 1768-1776, August 200 Contribution of environmental factors to the risk of male infertility Alejandro Oliva1, Alfred Spira2 and Luc Multigner2,3
Richard M Sharpe Lifestyle and environmental contribution to male infertility British Medical Bulletin 56:630-642 (2000)
BMI AND INFERTILITY Sallmen, M. Epidemiology, September 2006; vol 17: pp 520-523. Markku Sallmen, PhD
Semen quality of male smokers and nonsmokers in infertile couples References and further reading may be available for this article. To view references and further reading you must purchase this article. Robert Künzle M.D.a, Michael D. Mueller M.D.a, Willy Hänggi M.D.a, Martin Fertility and Sterility, Volume 79, Issue 2, Pages 287-291
Effects of delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol, the primary psychoactive cannabinoid in marijuana, on human sperm function in vitro Lynne B. Whan Ph.D.a, Mhairi C.L. West Ph.D.a, Neil McClure M.R.C.O.G Human Reproduction, Vol. 16, No. 8, 1768-1776, August 2006
Ethanol-induced male infertility: impairment of spermatozoa RA Anderson , BR Willis, C Oswald and LJ Zaneveld Volume 225, Issue 2, pp. 479-486, 05/01/1983 Pharmacology and Experimental Therapeutics
Effect of Mucuna pruriens on semen profile and biochemical parameters in seminal plasma of infertile men Fertil Steril Volume 90, Issue 3, Pages 627-635 (September 2008)Top of FormMohammaKaleem Ahmad, M.Sc.a, Abbas Ali Mahdi, M.A.M.S., Ph.D
P. G. Adaikan a; K. Gauthaman a; R. N. V. Prasad History of herbal medicines with an insight on the pharmacological properties of Tribulus terrestris a The Aging Male, Volume 4, Issue 3 September 2001 , pages 163 - 16
The effect of aqueous extracts of Cynomorium coccineum and Withania somnifera on testicular development in immature Wistar rats References and further reading may be available for this article. To view references and further reading you must purchase this article. E. M. Abdel-Magied, H. A. Abdel-Rahman and F. M. Harraz J Ethnopharmacol Volume 75, Issue 1, April 2001, Pages 1-4
Pharmaceutical Biology May 2009, Vol. 47, No. 5, Pages 390-395 Effect of Asparagus racemosus on sexual dysfunction in hyperglycemic male rats Mayank Thakur‌, Shilpi Bhargava‌, V.K. Dixi
Effect of Licorice Extract on Semen Quality and Libido in Awassi RamsAzhr Al -Haboby 1, A. H. A. H. Hamra 2 and A. K. Mabdi 3 www.aaaid.org/pdf/magazine

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Influenza

2012-01-16T23:39:15Z

by Alakananda Devi (Alakananda Ma), M.B., B.S. (Lond.)

Jwara (fever) is the lord of the diseases, born from sin, causing death, feeds on ojas, lead to the final end...characterised by santapa (discomfort from heat), arising from improper conduct; is a cruel one, affecting all species of living beings and called by different names. (1)

In the Charak Samhita, Puranvasu explains that fever originated when Daksha, King of Kashi, excluded Shiva from his sacrifice. In his anger, Shiva emanated a boy who, heated with the fire of anger, could destroy Daksha's irreverent sacrifice. Once Shiva calmed down, the emanation of his fire of wrath, possessed of three heads and nine eyes, holding a weapon of ashes and surrounded by flames, needed a job. Shiva told him, "You will be fever in the world." (2) Since then the emanation of Shiva's wrath has run around the world making immense trouble. Just in terms of influenza alone, there are 250,000-500,000 new cases each year in the United States, with a resultant 20,000 deaths and 200,000 hospitalizations annually. (3) The 1918 pandemic flu was more lethal that World War I, killing from 20,000,000 to 50,000,000 people in two short years. The magnitude of the health challenge presented by influenza and its common incidence render it an extremely important topic, particularly in the winter months when epidemics of influenza tend to occur. In this article we will consider differences in how Ayurveda and biomedicine see influenza, complementarity between the two, benefits of influenza, hazards of influenza, prevention, treatment, aftercare and pandemic influenza.

]]> Differences in How Ayurveda and Biomedicine See Influenza
The biomedical approach to influenza is based in the sciences of virology, biochemistry and microbiology. From this standpoint, it is important to know the exact virus that caused the flu-like illness and the exact mechanisms of infectivity, transmission and morbidity or lethality of this virus. Viral cultures, immunofluorescent tests and serologic studies are required in order to make a definitive diagnosis. The disease entity characterised as influenza is caused by a single-stranded RNA virus, the influenza virus, which is subdivided into type A or B (causing epidemic flu) and type C (causing sporadic flu). Influenza is transmitted via the respiratory secretions over a time period from one day before until about five days after the onset of the disease. Non-influenzal flu-like illnesses are caused by other viruses, notably the adenoviruses, double-stranded DNA viruses which can survive for long periods of time in house dust and cause flu-like illnesses on an endemic basis throughout the year. The Ayurvedic approach to influenza is based on the prakruti-vikruti paradigm and emphasises the condition of the host rather than the nature of the infective agent. Diagnosis depends not on serology and virology but on the age old methods of darshanam, sparshanam and prashanam, (observation, palpation and questioning). Two individuals affected with the same virus will likely receive a somewhat different Ayurvedic diagnosis, depending upon their presenting features. Strictly speaking, Ayurvedists should stay away from the word influenza (a diagnosis rooted in virology). From the Ayurvedic standpoint, the abhisanga (external)cause or infective agent (personified as Shiva's anger-emanation) is still less important than the pre-existing doshas and ama. The infective agent is the seed but ama is the fertile field in which the seeds can sprout. As Vagbhat describes the pathogenesis of fever, Doshas, getting increased by their respective causes, enter amashaya (the stomach) combine with ama, obstruct the channels, drive the fire to the exterior and moving along with it make great increase of heat in the body. (4)

Based on the symptom picture, the fever is characterized as arising from vata, pitta, kapha, a combination of two doshas or all three (sannipata). A typical influenza might fit the description of a pitta-kapha fever, with symptoms of shivering, stiffness, sweating, burning sensations, thirst, cough, and elimination of phlegm and yellow or green secretions. (5) A pandemic influenza of high lethality would fit the picture of incurable sannipata jwara, with stupor, expectoration, vomiting and exhaustion. (6) Ayurvedically, it is also important to be aware of which dhatu is being affected by jwara. Acute fevers move swiftly through the astayi dhatus, penetrating deeper and deeper, giving rise to the ever changing symptom picture of flu-like illnesses as the symptom complexes of each dhatu appear sequentially. Initially there might be the body aches and nausea of rasa jwara, soon followed by the high fever and prostration of rakta jwara. This may be followed swiftly by fainting as doshas enter mamsa dhatu. The author recalls passing out on the London Underground during the pandemic flu of 1969! Soon after comes the onset of anorexia, thirst, malaise and sometimes vomiting as doshas reach meda. In more serious flus the intense bone pain and breathlessness of asthi jwara may follow and in extreme cases influenza may lead to encephalitis, an all-out majja jwara. (7)

Complementarities between the two views
In contemporary practice, the two views of influenza complement each other. Virology, biochemistry and phytochemistry offer the Ayurvedist valuable insights (8) in the selection of herbs that will be active against viral illnesses. For example, knowing of the impressive antiviral resumes of herbs such as Turmeric, Tulsi and Neem may lead us to include these herbs in our influenza chikitsa, while taking their rasa, virya and vipak into account within the prakruti-vikruti paradigm. At the same time, Ayurveda offers biomedicine and Western herbology potential answers to the question why only some exposed individuals will actually develop influenza, why some will be worse affected than others and why some are harmed by the same treatment that benefits others. A mother arrived in my clinic very concerned because her young daughter had not recovered from a flu-like illness despite dosing with Echinacea, which cured her step-brother. We discontinued Echinacea and she spontaneously recovered. As a vata, she was adversely affected by Echinacea, a bitter and pungent herb that was beneficial for her kapha step-brother.

Benefits of Influenza
From a biomedical standpoint, influenza has an effect in priming the immune system, raising levels of interferon that help combat other viral challenges. A small child's frequent flu-like illnesses are a kind of immunological curriculum, training their immune system to recognize and combat a wide range of viruses. From an Ayurvedic standpoint, it is important to distinguish between prakrta and vaikruta fevers. Prakruta fevers occur at the change of seasons in Spring and Fall and are the body's way of expelling excess doshas. These fevers are typically in the category of abhaisaja sadhya or illnesses that spontaneously remit without medicine. Suppressing these natural fevers leaves the doshas no way of being expelled and sets the stage for the onset of more serious conditions. On the other hand, vaikruta fevers occur unseasonably (such as kapha flu in summer) and should be treated vigorously as they represent an inherent imbalance. (9)

Hazards of influenza
Influenza is particularly troublesome in older adults (over fifty), in respiratory-compromised individuals such as asthmatics, in immuno-compromised situations like HIV and in those with chronic illnesses such as diabetes and heart disease. These groups are more likely to develop significant pranavahasrotas disorders such as bronchitis and pneumonia as a consequence of catching flu. In light of these dangers, prevention is an important aspect of the approach to influenza.

Prevention
In working with those in the risk categories discussed above, it is particularly important to address influenza prevention during the fall and winter. An herbal formula to detoxify rasa and rakta and stimulate the immune response with herbs such as Pippali, turmeric, and Triphala, will be of value during this season. Immune Support is a combination that includes these traditional herbs as well as Echinacea and Osha, which have known effects in stimulating the immune system. Daily use of Chyavanprash during flu season is very traditional and will help maintain the health of pranavahasrotas and fight off flu. A home-made "Trinity Tea," as we like to call it, is a tasty combination of Tulsi, Turmeric and Ginger to make a warming and anti-viral beverage for use in the winter months, particularly for the at-risk populations. Of course, regular panchakarma at the change of seasons takes flu prevention to another level. Shodhana therapies expel the excess accumulated doshas, removing the need for the body to expel them through a prakrta fever.

Treatment
Influenza is treated by langhana (reducing) therapies, particularly fasting (10). Loss of appetite during fever is a response of cellular prajna since agni has become externalized and is unable to digest solid food. A small child whose parent s encouraged her to eat during an influenzal fever developed sores on her mouth and tongue. These immediately abated when she was asked to fast for a short while and sip Fennel tea. While fasting, the patient should sip warm water frequently and should avoid cold water, which will cause further accumulation of vata and kapha. In the case of a strong pitta fever, room temperature water can be sipped. (11) Herbal teas containing Musta and Ginger are ideal. Musta is regarded as the pre-eminent herb for fevers (12). Cooling herbs are added to this blend, traditionally sandalwood, now unavailable for sustainability reasons. Rose and Coriander can be substituted to provide the cooling anti-febrile component. The texts emphasize that no solids, including powdered herbs, be taken at this time. (13) Sweating is applied using a ginger bath or sauna but oiling or lepana should not be applied. As the fever comes down and appetite begins to be felt, the patient should use bitter herbs such as Mahasudarshan to dispel toxins and can consume a thin gruel containing digestive spices such as Ginger, Coriander, and Pippali(14). Kapha should add Dashamoola to these recipes. (15) Traditionally the reintroduction of foods progresses from manda (a liquid gruel) to peya, or semisolid gruel to yavagu or soup with boiled grains to vilepi, somewhat soupy boiled grains and finally to odana or solid boiled grains. (16) Vata and pitta can use rice for these recipes while kapha should use barley instead. Mung dal can also be used for the gruels while for gluten sensitive kaphas we have had good results substituting quinoa for barley in the traditional recipes. Non-vegetarians can also use chicken soup ('Jewish penicillin') as a substitute for the quail soup mentioned in the texts (17). Maya Tiwari's book Secrets of Healing contains recipes for the traditional gruel preparations of manda, peya etc. showing how to use spices such as cumin, coriander, turmeric and mineral salt in the recipes. Following the reintroduction of food, it is wise to use rakta shodhan or blood cleansing herbs such as Guduchi and Musta (18) or a formula such as Blood Cleanse and to take Triphala to expel residual doshas.

Aftercare
Following influenza the patient may be debilitated for weeks, even if they shook off the initial fever in a few days. At this time it is best to remain celibate, to continue an easily digestible diet and to introduce physical exertion gradually (19). Walking can be increased from slowly strolling around the block to gentle walks. Restorative yoga will also be helpful. Lung rejuvenative herbs such as Licorice, Pippali or Lung Formula are of value at this time, to clear up residual cough and upper respiratory symptoms and strengthen pranavahasrotas. The post-flu formula par excellence is Chyavanprash, which heals the lungs, boosts immunity and restores strength and energy. Post-influenzal depression arises from penetration of the virus and disease process into majjavahasrotas and is best addressed by a tea combining equal portions of Brahmi and Tulsi.

A Word about Pandemic Influenza
Influenza viruses responsible for causing pandemics are influenza A viruses which emerge as a result of a process called "antigenic shift" causing sudden, major change in certain proteins on the surface of the influenza A virus. This change is great enough that the body's immune system finds the new virus unrecognizable. Much of the severity of pandemic flu may result from over-reactivity of the immune system, a process known as 'cytokine storm' which results in severe lung damage and ultimately necrolysis of the vital organs. (20) In this situation it is vital to avoid immune stimulants such as Echinacea or Immune Support which are so valuable in epidemic and sporadic influenza. Honey should not be used for the same reason. Turmeric is the ideal herb to use in this situation since it will both fight the virus and calm the immune response.

Conclusion
As we have seen, biomedicine and Ayurveda view influenza through different lenses and yet the two approaches can complement each other. Ancient texts provide detailed instructions regarding the prevention, treatment and aftercare of influenza.

Astanga Hridayam of Vagbhat, nidansthanam ii ,v1-2 tr. Srikantha Murthy, Chowkhamba Krishanadas Academy, Varanasi, 2003
Charak Samhita, Chikitsasthanam, iii v15-25 tr. PV Sharma, Chaukhamba Orientalia, Varanasi1994
Hakan Leblebicioglu, MD http://www.emedicine.com/ped/TOPIC3006.HTM
A. H. op cit nidanasthanam ii3-6
ibid, ii v26
ibid ii v 35-37
C.S. op cit chikitsasthanam ii 75-83
Amritpal Singh, Reviving the Dravyaguna Curriculum, Light on Ayurveda Journal Fall 2008 Vol. 7 issue 1 p 37-39
C. S. op cit chikitsasthanam ii42-49
A.H. op cit chikitsasthanam i v 1-2
ibid v 11-13
ibid v15-16
ibid v 18-19
ibid v 21-22
ibid v 24-26
ibid v 26-34
C.S. op cit chikitsasthanam ii v 190-193
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ibid v 174.
Osterholm, Proposed Mechanism of the Cytokine Storm Evoked by Influenza virus. New England Journal of Medicine, 352 (18): 1839, Figure 3. May 5, 2005

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A Home Pharmacy for Pitta

2012-01-16T17:18:14Z

by Alakananda Devi (Alakananda Ma), M.B., B.S. (Lond.)

Pitta clients are distinguished by their ability to take on their own Ayurvedic care as a project. A typical pitta client will have Ayurvedic food lists on the refrigerator and a special tote bag for their herbs, anupans such as aloe vera and their flask of Brahmi tea. Pitta needs to feel empowered. Thus it can be good to encourage your pitta clients to create a home pharmacy of herbs and mixtures they can use at their discretion. This article can be used as a handout to help pitta in creating and making the most of their home pharmacy. For maximum, shelf life, the herbs in the home pharmacy should be stored in screw top glass jars and kept in a cool, dark place.

]]> Amlaki
The value of Amlaki in a home pharmacy goes for beyond its standard use to cleanse the colon and remove excess pitta from the system. A woman with discoid lupus, characterised by lesions on the skin of the face, relies on Amlaki to aid cellular regeneration and act as an antioxidant. Another, eight months pregnant and afflicted with hyperacidity, found that a small pinch of Amlaki taken at the onset of symptoms provided welcome relief. In cases of pitta hypoglycaemia, a similar small pinch of Amlaki can bring instant calming of troublesome symptoms such as dizziness, irritability and excess hunger. Due to astringent taste, a pinch size dose of Amlaki will bind the stool, even though a larger amount will act as a laxative. Thus Amlaki is also valuable for pitta stomach upsets with loose bowels. Amlaki is also an ideal hair rinse for pitta, said to strengthen hair roots and reduce such pitta manifestations as early greying and balding.

Mahasudarshan
Funnily enough, some pitta individuals actually crave the bitter taste provided by Mahasudarshan. As an important addition to a home pharmacy, Mahasudarshan can be used as a flu preventative after exposure, to disperse toxins after a fever has gone down, and to help the liver after toxic chemical exposure or accidental ingestion of a food allergen. It will help with acne, boils and rashes and can be valuable during allergy season. For the chemical sensitive individual with multiple food allergies, knowing how to use Mahasudarshan can make the difference between a functional life and one dominated by bizarre and disabling symptoms. For pitta people who crave breads and sugar, a half teaspoon of Mahasudarshan mixed in honey and taken before breakfast can greatly alleviate these cravings.

Shatavari
Every pitta--especially every pitta woman--should be taught how to prepare Shatavari Kalpa. Roast an ounce of Shatavari with one or two tablespoons ghee in a cast iron pan until light brown and add two tablespoons of sucanat, rapadura or turbinado sugar, two pinches saffron and a pinch of cardamom. A teaspoon of this recipe can be taken in the morning to prevent attacks of hypoglycaemia or other tikshnagni manifestations. Shatavari Kalpa is also beneficial to regulate menstruation as well as for daily use in pregnancy and during menopause. Thus Shatavari Kalpa is an excellent all round home remedy for the pitta woman.

Coriander
Coriander of course features in cumin, coriander and fennel tea, valuable for pitta stomach upsets and urinary problems. Pitta will also appreciate cool coriander and sandalwood tea for cystitis and burning urination. For pitta fevers, mild heatstroke, hot flashes or during heat waves, pitta can enjoy room temperature coriander and rose tea. Coriander seeds can also be crushed or ground and added to a lassi or takram--two tablespoons of yoghurt, a cup of pure water, a teaspoon of ground coriander seeds and a pinch or two of rose petal powder will make delicious drink to aid digestion and absorption for pitta individuals. To make a pleasantly bitter and pitta soothing coffee substitute, pitta can roast and grind coriander seeds and then steep them in hot water.

Fennel
"Take a cup of fennel tea and call me in the morning" is a phrase that is useful for an acute--non life-threatening-- pitta problem such as acute indigestion, glossitis, stomatitis or cystitis. Fennel is extremely soothing in pitta inflammatory conditions and so forms a key part of the pitta home pharmacy. It can also be combined with liquorice to make a wonderfully pitta soothing beverage.

Liquorice
As long as your pitta client does not have hypertension, liquorice will be an invaluable addition to their home pharmacy. Liquorice tea soothes hyperacidity and pre-ulcer conditions--in fact liquorice is the basis of the ulcer medicine, Tagomet. Liquorice can also be used during flu season and allergy season to ease annoying persistent coughs and pitta tonsillitis. Clients with brittle or thinning hair should add a cup of liquorice tea to their daily routine, as should those who complain of issues with eyesight. Pitta women can douche with liquorice tea, or better still a combination of liquorice, turmeric and Triphala, as a home remedy for vaginal irritations or yeast infections.

Brahmi
An all too frequent occurrence in the life of any pitta-provoked person are those days when one 'gets out of bed on the wrong side,' waking irritable, moody and upset. Brahmi is essential in the life of a modern, stressed-out, over achieving pitta. A morning cup of Brahmi tea can turn the moody day around, bringing greater tranquillity and ease, as well as ensuring a sharper mind and better day's work. Brahmi can also be combined with tulsi for a soothing drink to promote calmness and clarity of mind and enhance meditation.

Hibiscus
A favourite ingredient in many summer cooling drinks, Hibiscus is a good ally for pitta. In spring, a rehydrating drink can be prepared using Hibiscus and fresh dandelion roots from the garden. Simmer 10 washed and pesticide free dandelion roots in one gallon of pure water for four hours. Remove from the heat and add one cup organic hibiscus flower powder. Let the hibiscus steep as the mixture cools. Add some lemon juice and lemon zest, sweeten to taste with honey or maple syrup and drink for electrolyte balance.

For a summer cooler, 1 quart spring water, one quarter cup hibiscus, one eighth cup organic rose petal powder, brew as a sun tea, add one tablespoon of Aloe Vera juice to each cup.
For a good emenogogue for pitta, use hibiscus tea with a small amount of cinnamon.
For cystits, make hibiscus tea with added sandalwood powder.

Sandalwood
Used in several of the teas mentioned above, sandalwood powder is invaluable for pitta. Pitta can also mix sandalwood powder into a paste to use for headaches, shin irritations or acne. A bottle of sandalwood oil is also very helpful in the pitta pharmacy. Applied on the forehead, it is helpful for pitta headaches and fevers, while a drop on the navel can calm a pitta tantrum.

Rose
Organic rose petal powder is also used in several of the teas mentioned here. It can be mixed with goats milk (or powdered goats milk) to maker a facial for pitta skin. On summer nights, pitta can stir a teaspoon of rose powder into their bedtime warm milk.

All products mentioned in this article are available from www.banyanbotanicals.com.

Herbs for Immunity

2012-01-16T16:55:31Z

by Alakananda Devi (Alakananda Ma), M.B., B.S. (Lond.)

During the winter months of cold and flu season, herbal allies can be a great help in supporting our immune systems. Out of the array of Ayurvedic immune boosters, here are three of the most important.

Tulasi, known as ocimum sanctum or Holy Basil, is an adaptogenic herb that helps the body overcome stress and maintain a healthy immune system. This is extremely valuable since, aside from the job, relationship or financial stresses that many of us encounter, modern life is a stress to our immune system. Air pollution and noise affect our adrenal glands and overall resistance, leaving us more vulnerable to disease. Regular use of Tulsi can help us overcome these impacts of modern life and enjoy optimum health. A cup of Tulsi tea in the morning is a delightful and soothing way to support immunity on a daily basis, made even tastier with the addition of ginger, another herb that helps fight infections, and some raw honey, an immune booster in its own right.

]]> In colds and flu's, Tulsi chai with cardamom, milk and honey will bring down fever. In respiratory infections, Tulsi tea can be prepared with the addition of cloves, a spice which helps respiratory immunity, and in sore throat, Tulsi tea can be gargled as well as drunk. Use of Tulsi tea helps create a positive, peaceful and sattvic state of mind. This is an extremely important effect in terms of immunity, since our own mind can be either our best friend or our worst enemy. A negative, hopeless, depressive mind sends negative messages to our immune system, leading to serious disease, whereas a positive, cheerful mind is the greatest immune booster known.

Another important adaptogen is Ashwagandha (withania somnifera) also known as Winter Cherry. In Ayurveda, immunity is seen in terms of ojas, the refined essence of our body's seven tissues or dhatus. A strong ojas makes us impervious to disease even when we are exposed to infectious agents, while one with low ojas is constantly sick and may develop more severe conditions such as cancer and chronic fatigue. Ashwagandha is one of the best rasayanas, or rejuvenative herbs, helping build strong ojas to fight infection and maintain longevity. A warming herb, Ashwagandha is a good choice in the winter months, especially for those with excess vata. To strengthen immunity and build ojas, a teaspoon of Ashwagandha can be taken at bedtime, stirred into a cup of hot milk. A pinch of nutmeg can be added to support absorption and enhance the effects of the Ashwagandha. It is important to use cow's milk in this recipe, since this is an ojas builder in its own right. Most foods and herbs nourish the seven dhatus sequentially, taking five days to traverse each dhatu. Thus the food you eat today will take thirty five days to nourish ojas, at the end of the dhatu nutrition line. In the case of both Ashwagandha and cow's milk, all the dhatus are nourished at the same time, giving an immediate impact upon ojas. Goat's milk does not have the same properties in terms of ojas. For those who cannot tolerate cow's milk, almond milk is the perfect substitute, since it too has the effect of immediate rejuvenative action upon ojas.

On the other hand, to use Ashwagandha for a chronic dry cough, emphysema or even tuberculosis, a teaspoon of Ashwagandha can be taken twice daily with goats milk. For this recipe, take one cup goat's milk and one cup water and add a teaspoon of Ashwagandha and a pinch of Pippali (piper longum or Long Pepper). Pippali is perhaps the best herbal ally for supporting respiratory immunity, and is of great value in all chronic respiratory conditions. Cook this mixture until it is reduced back to one cup and take each morning and evening. In asthma take a teaspoon of Ashwagandha and a quarter teaspoon of Pippali in honey.

When ojas is severely impaired, resulting in CFIDS (Chronic Fatigue Immune Dysfunction), take a teaspoon of Ashwagandha with two teaspoons of ghee and a teaspoon of honey twice daily. For those who may be sensitive to ghee or honey, since CFIDS often leads to multiple food allergies, stir the Ashwagandha into some warm, unsweetened almond milk. As its name withania somnifera attests, Ashwagandha helps promote sound sleep. This is especially the case when it is taken at bedtime with warm milk and nutmeg. This action will indirectly support immunity, since there is no immune booster better than a good night's sleep. Ashwagandha also calms worry, thus eliminating a significant cause of weakened immunity.

One of the stellar immune supporters of Ayurveda is Chyavanprash. This ancient formula was used by sage Chyavan in his extreme old age, causing him to regain youthfulness. "It alleviates cough and breathlessness, is useful for those who are wasted, injured or old, and promotes development of children...even the old attain intellect, memory, lustre, freedom from disease and longevity." (Charak Samhita). While the formula for Chyavanprash utilizes the immune boosting qualities of both Ashwagandha and Pippali, it relies for its success upon Amlaki (emblica officinalis), the Herb of Eternal Life. Amlaki is one of the richest sources of Vitamin C, contaning a form of Vitamin C which is conjugated to gallic acid and is heat stable. In addition to its innate anti-bacterial properties, Amlaki is a potent antoxidant, preventing free radical damage to cells. Amlaki also raises white blood count, notably enhancing immunity. A teaspoon of Chyavanprash can be taken twice daily, in the morning and mid afternoon throughout flu season to support the immune system. It should be taken on an empty stomach.

Although all of the herbs mentioned in this article can be used judiciously by people of all doshic constitutions, at least during the winter, Ashwagandha will be especially useful for vata, Chyavanprash and Amlaki for pitta and Tulsi for kapha. By taking the help of these herbal allies, you can increase your chance of a healthy winter season and even improve your overall health.

All products mentioned in this article are available from www.banyanbotanicals.com.