Ayurveda Health Benefits Of Drinking Water

75% of earth’s area is covered by water. Water is the major component of all living beings and it is the major constituent of human cells. Ayurveda considers water (aap or jala) as one of panchamahabhutas. ( Panchamahabhutas  constitute human body). Water provides a good medium for most of the biological processes that happen in living beings. Dehydration or loss of water from body causes dry skin, lowered energy, muscle cramps, reduced alertness and affects vital organs.

Potable water:

Water which is not harmful to health and has all qualities to serve as drinking water is called as potable water. The potable water must be free from heavy metals, suspended particles and pathogens like bacteria.

Ayurveda recommends rain water which is devoid of impurities, microbes as pure potable water. This is called as “Gangambu”. Such rain water is healthy, refreshing, cools body, increases alertness and satiates taste buds. The properties of pure Gangabu or rain water are narrated as follows.

“Jeevanam tarpanam hridyam hlaadi buddhiprabhodhanam |
Tanvavyaktarasam mrushtam sheetam laghvamrutopamam||”

In present environmental scenario the polluted sky, dusty winds, chemicals spewed from industries get dissolved with rain water causing acid rains. It is not advisable to drink such rain water. Even in ayurveda it has been mentioned that rain water has to be used after analyzing its purity.

The water contaminated with mud, weeds, algae and microbes is referred as “Dushtajala” in ayurveda. Dushtajala or contaminated water should not be used for any purpose as it is harmful to living beings.

Benefits of cold  and warm water an - ayurvedic view

Ayurveda explains properties of cold water as follows

“Sheetam madaatyayaglaanimoorchaachardishramabhramaan ||  Trushnadaahapittasravishanyambu niyacchati ||”

Cold water reduces intoxication of alcohol. It relieves fatigue, giddiness, vomiting sensation and quenches thirst. It alleviates symptoms of increased pitta, rakta and poison.

Deepanam paachanam kantyam laghushnam basthi shodhanam ||
Hidmaadmaanaanilashleshmasadyahashuddhinavajware |
Kaasaampinasashwaasapaarshwarukshu cha shasyate |

Hot water kindles hunger, helps in good digestion, sooths throat, cleanses bladder, reduces hiccups, and alleviates increased vata and kapha. Hot water is recommended during panchakarma therapy. It eases symptoms of cold, cough, fevers and breathlessness.
It removes and flushes ama, the metabolic toxin of body.

Persons who drink plenty of water regularly enjoy the following benefits.

Healthy glowing skin: A well hydrated skin prevents dry skin and formation of wrinkles. Increased water intake moisturizes the skin from inside. It maintains the elasticity of skin and gives young looks. Water acts as a fountain of youth.

Keeps Cardio Vascular system healthy:  Researches have revealed that, drinking water regularly reduces the risk of heart diseases. The scientists say that dehydration increases the viscosity of blood and plasma which are risk factors of heart disease. 

Good Digestion: Water is very essential for digestion of food and absorption of nutrients. Well hydrated body cells function normally and efficiently. Water helps in expelling waste products produce during metabolism.

No Constipation: Inadequate consumption of water and lack of fiber in diet cause constipation. Drinking 14 glasses of water per day along with good fiber diet ease bowel movement and relieve constipation. 

Alert mind: Dehydration can affect mental alertness. Frequent ingestion of water keeps the mind alert and prevents dizziness which occur due to dehydration..

Regular Detoxification: In resent years our environment is full of toxins like pesticides, industrial wastes, vehicle exhausts etc. These toxins enter human body and get collected in tissues. Drinking lot of water help to eliminate these toxins from body. Hence drinking clean and pure water regularly in large quantities help to flush these toxins and prevent diseases which arise from accumulation of these toxins.

Apart from the benefits mentioned above , water regulates body temperature and boosts the immunity of body. Sports persons are always advised to drink plain water instead of aerated drinks.

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Ayurveda Medicinal properties of sesame

Sesame is an oil crop which is widely grown in India and China. Sesame is a common ingredient in almost all cuisines around the world. With a rich nutty flavor, it has gained an important place on kitchen shelves.

Sesame is an annual plant. This erect plant grows to a height of 40 to 90 cms. The leaves vary in size and shape. The flowers are bell shaped and vary in color (white, pale yellow, purple). The fruit of this plant is a capsule and contain small seeds. Upon ripening the fruit naturally splits and releases the seeds. The seeds have highest oil content than any other oil seeds.

The texts of ayurveda have described medicinal properties of sesame. It is known as “tila” in Sanskrit, “til” in hindi. Ayurveda acharyas describe three varieties of sesame based on colour of seeds. They are “Raktha(red), Krishna(black) and  shweta(white)”. Usually Krishna tila or black sesame seeds are considered to have excellent medicinal properties and are recommended in ayurvedic treatments and ayurvedic preparations.

Sesame seeds contain approximately 50% oil and 25% protein. The oil of theses seeds contains about 47% oleic and 39% linoleic acid. Foods prepared with sesame oil have long shelf life, because the oil contains an antioxidant called sesamol. The residual sesame meal left after the oil pressing is rich in protein and used as an excellent protein supplement for live stock. Soaps prepared from this oil help to maintain skin health.

According to principles of ayurveda sesame is heavy to digest and increases moistness of tissues. It tastes sweet and has hot potency (ushna). The seeds and oil are used for medicinal purposes.

Ayurveda medicinal properties of sesame:

1. Sesame normalizes vata and vitiates pitta and kapha. It has properties of “Yogavahi” . Yogavahi is a substance which has a quality of penetrating the deepest tissues. When sesame is processed with other herbs it normalizes all the three doshas.  Hence this is used in diseases arising due to vitiation of vata. And it can also be used in diseases caused due to vitiation of tridoshas.

2. The sesame oil can be used in dry skin conditions. It increases the moistness of skin and help to make it soft and smooth. The oil has excellent wound healing properties. The hair growth increases when scalp is massaged regularly with this oil. It prevents hair loss, formation of dandruff, splitting of hair etc. It is used for massaging patients who suffer from paralysis, body pain and pain in joints.

3. Sesame acts as a brain tonic.

4. Chewing these oil seeds help to reduce tooth ache. It also increases appetite. Sesame can be effectively used in indigestion and IBS (Irritable Bowel Syndrome).

5. It is very helpful in conditions like diabetes and reduces frequency of urination.

6. When sesame seeds are administered with butter, it reduces pain and bleeding in hemorrhoids.

7. These oil seeds are useful in uterine conditions like dysmenorrhea and secondary amenorrhea.  They act as galactogague and increase the milk secretion in lactating mothers. The sesame seeds act as aphrodisiac and help in erectile dysfunction and premature ejaculation.

This article is copy righted. The author Dr.SavithaSuri is an Ayurvedic Physician and web master of Ayurveda help through ayurveda consultations . Read article at Ayurveda medicinal properties of sesame plant drsavithasuri@gmail.com

Ayurveda Medicinal properties of Black gram - Vigna mungo-urad dal

Black gram or black lentil is known as urad dal in Hindi. In texts of ayurveda this bean is known as “MASHA”. Black gram is a bean grown mainly in south Asia. The plant of this bean is erect and hairy. It is an annual herb. It has a tap root which branches to form branched roots. The cylindrical pod of this plant contains seeds. The pods are usually six cm long.

Nutritional facts: Black gram is rich in vitamins, minerals and devoid of cholesterol. It is store house of calcium, potassium, iron, magnesium, copper, manganese etc. Urad dal contains vitamins and dietary fibers. Due to high potassium content urad dal acts as an aphrodisiac. (High blood pressure occurs due to high sodium level and low potassium level. Black gram contains plenty of potassium. This helps to balance sodium potassium level and reduce hypertension or high blood pressure. There is a strong link between hypertension or high blood pressure and erectile dysfunction. As potassium helps to reduce high blood pressure, it also helps in erectile dysfunction. )

Ayurveda Medicinal properties of Black gram or urad dal:

According to texts of ayurveda this bean is heavy to digest and increases the moistness of body tissues. It is sweet to taste and hot in potency. All these properties help to normalize or calm vitiated vata. Consumption of this bean increases kapha and pitta.

Imbalanced vata dosha causes many diseases and also leads to men health problems like erectile dysfunction, premature ejaculation, low sperm count and motility etc. Hence Ayurveda acharyas recommend use of “masha” in many health conditions.

Anti inflammatory properties: According to principles of ayurveda vitiation of vata causes inflammation of tissues and initiates the sensation of pain.“Masha” or urad dal normalizes vata and hence has anti inflammatory properties. Usually a hot poultice of black gram is used in inflammation of joints and muscle pain. Massaging with herbal oil processed with this wonderful herb helps to reduce pain and inflammation

Nervous system disorders:  This herb strengthens nervous system. Ayurveda acharyas recommend preparations of this herb in nervous debility, partial paralysis, facial paralysis and other disorders which involve nervous system.

Disorders of digestive system: “Vigna Mungo” or masha helps to increase bulk of stools. The moistness increasing property coupled with bulk increasing quality helps in easy movement of bowel.  Therefore usage of this bean is recommended in conditions like constipation, piles and colic. This herb is a very good liver stimulant.

Action on male reproductive system: Texts of ayurveda eulogize the aphrodisiac properties of black gram. It increases sperm count and sperm motility.(Increases quality and quantity of semen). It is very effective in erectile dysfunction (impotence) and premature ejaculation

Action on female reproductive system: This herb is effective in dysmenorrhea and primary amenorrhea .It increases milk secretion in lactating mothers.

Apart from above mentioned medicinal properties, black gram also helps in increasing body bulk and body energy level. It strengthens the body and increases lifespan.

This article is copy righted. The author Dr.SavithaSuri is an Ayurvedic Physician and web master of Ayurveda Help through ayurveda remedies . Read article at Ayurveda Medicinal properties of Black gram drsavithasuri@gmail.com

Magnificent Mango

Mango belongs to the family “Anacardiaceae”. It has the scientific name “Magnifera Indica” and is widely found in India and south East Asia. Mango trees have deep roots and reach the height of 40 ft - 120 ft . Young mango leaves are copper in color and matured ones have deep green color. The flowers of mango tree are mostly male which supply pollens and few are bisexual which help in formation of fruits.

Bark, leaves, flowers, seed, raw and ripe fruits of mango have myriad medicinal uses. Texts of ayurveda mention various herbal preparations using different parts of mango tree. These preparations are used to normalize a variety of health conditions.

The Mango Bark, flower, leaves, and seed kennel are astringent and cause dryness of body tissues.  Ripe mango fruit is sweet to taste and increases sliminess and mucous secretion. Raw Mango is sour in taste and vitiates all three doshas.

Ripe mango normalizes vata and pitta. It helps to relieve constipation and normalize digestion. Consumption of ripe mango increases hemoglobin in blood and is very useful in treating anaemia. Ayurvedic texts eulogize the uses of ripe mango as an aphrodisiac. It is known to rejuvenate male reproductive system and increase quality and quantity of semen. It also increases sexual energy (as it nourishes rakta dhatu) and stamina. Thus it helps in erectile dysfunction and low libido. Ripe mango strengthens the body, increases body bulk and increases glow of skin

Bark, flower, leaves and seed kennel are used to prevent bleeding and to heal chronic wounds. These also help in controlling diarrhea and dysentery. The seed kennel helps to eliminate intestinal parasites and to control dysfunctional uterine bleeding. Seed kennel and tender leaves are useful in urinary tract infections. Bark and seed kennel are used in herbal preparations to reduce inflammation of uterus. Mango leaves reduce vomiting sensation.

Nutritional facts of mango

Texts of Ayurveda commend its nutritional and medicinal value. The following are nutritional facts of mango

Mango is rich in carbohydrates .Therefore helps to gain weight and energy. Ayurveda acharyas have indicated that mangoes cause “Brimhanatwa” (increase in weight) and increase “Bala” (strength).

Persons who suffer from anemia are benefited by this fruit as it contains iron. Hence its use is indicated in “Pandu” (anemia) in ayurveda.

High fibers in mango fruit help to relieve constipation. This property helps to normalize doshas and help to expel body toxins.

This fruit is a good source of a variety of minerals and vitamins which help to increase sexual energy. Hence ayurveda acharyas call this fruit as “Vrishya”. This means the one which help in erectile dysfunction, to increase quality and quantity of semen and act as aphrodisiac.

Natural vitamins of mango (Vit A, Vit C)  help to relieve clogged pores of skin and increase fairness and its glow. Hence this fruit is known for its property of “Varnya” in ayurveda.

Different parts of mango tree are known to help in following conditions

Bacterial Infections
Clogged Pores
Constipation
Diarrhea
Dysentery
Eye disorder
Fever -
Hair Loss
Heat Stroke
Leucorrhea
Liver Disorders
Menstrual Disorders
Morning Sickness
Piles
Prickly Heat
Respiratory Problems
Scurvy
Sinusitis
Spleen Enlargement
Vaginitis

This article is copyrighted. The author Dr.SavithaSuri is an Ayurvedic Physician and web master of Ayurveda Help through free ayurveda consultations . Read Complete article at Ayurveda Health Benefits of Mango

Butter milk –A healthy drink described in ayurveda

Butter milk is known as “Takra” in ayurveda. Its properties and medicinal qualities are described in as follows.

Takram laghu kashayaamlam deepanam kaphavaatajit  ||
Showphodaraarshowgrahanidoshamootragrahaaruchee  |
Pleehagulmaghritavyaapadgarpaanduvaamayaan jayeth  ||

Butter milk does not cause heaviness when consumed. Hence it is known to have the quality “laghu”. It gets digested quickly and easily. Butter milk is usually sour in taste and acts as an astringent. (Due to this property butter milk helps in reducing pores caused by acne and pimples. It reduces hyper motility of intestines during diarrhea and IBS. This property also helps to shrink hemorrhoids).Aggravated kapha and vata are mitigated by buttermilk. It is the best appetizer. According to ayurveda it reduces bloating of stomach, eases symptoms of hemorrhoids, soothes intestines in IBS and helps in indigestion. It also reduces effects of poison and is very useful in treating anemia.

Butter milk detoxifies body and cleanses the intestines, relieves constipation and helps to replenish intestinal flora. It has less fat compared to milk and is rich in calcium, potassium and vit B12.

How to prepare butter milk:
Thick curd should be whipped to separate butter. The liquid portion which remains after separating butter is called as butter milk or “takra”.  When this butter milk is mixed with water , it is called as “sajala takra”. If the buttermilk is used without adding water, it is called as “nirjala takra”.

How to make a Tasty drink out of buttermilk:
Mix ½ glass of butter milk to ½ glass of water. Churn it well. Add a pinch of salt, ½ tea spoon ginger juice and squeeze ½ lime to it. Garnish with coriander leaves. This quenches  thirst, reduces nausea and vomiting.

Home remedies using buttermilk:
1.    Mix a pinch of salt, ½ tea spoon ginger juice and crushed cumin seeds or jeera to a glass of butter milk. This relieves acidity, constipation and symptoms of piles.
2.    Add a pinch of salt, a tea spoon of sugar to a glass of butter milk diluted with water. This acts as a very good rehydrating formula in diarrhea and dehydration. It supplies energy instantaneously and reduces frequency of stools.
3.    It is a healthy drink for people who suffer from obesity, piles and inflammed colon or ibs.
4.    Massage a mixture of butter milk and salt on pores caused by acne and pimples. Then wash it off with warm water and rinse once again with cold water. This helps to reduce the pores.
5.    Regular consumption of butter milk strengthens the digestive system and keeps it free from infections.

Read article bY dr.Savitha Suri at Butter Milk

Medicinal properties of Curd- as explained in ayurveda

According to ayurveda the properties of curd are described as follows.

1. The curd is sour (amla) to taste.

2. It absorbs water from intestines (hence called as Grahi). By the virtue of this property it is widely used to treat diarrhea and dysentery.

3. It causes heaviness when used in excess and may cause constipation.

4. It mitigates vata dosha, increases kapha and pitta. Curd should not be used in diseases where blood is vitiated by doshas.

5. Regular consumption of this in pure form increases body fat and may cause obesity.

6. Curd helps to increase quality and quantity of semen.

7. It strengthens the body.

8. Consumption of curd accelerates digestion (agni), stimulates taste buds and acts as an appetizer.

9. It is found beneficial in diseases of duodenum.The intestinal friendly bacteria which are present in curd help to keep the colon healthy.

10. It reduces irritability of bladder and helps in emptying bladder easily.

11.It is a good source of calcium which help in building and repair of bones. Hence children and women are advised to consume curd regularly

Dos and donts for using curd:

1.    Curd should not be eaten at nights.
2.    It should not be boiled or heated.
3.    Always it has to be mixed with honey or sugar before consuming.
4.    Its properties get enhanced when mixed with cooked green gram or ghee or gooseberries (amla  , Emblica Officinalis).
5.    Curd should be used only when it is well formed or completely coagulated.
6.    Consumption of incompletely coagulated curd may flare up herpes outbreaks, psoriasis, bleeding in hemorrhoids, ibs etc. and may cause giddiness.

Home remedies using curd

1.    Dandruff is a known cause of hair loss. Applying sour curd as a pack to scalp and hair , once in a week prevents formation of dandruff.
2.    Mix moong dal (green gram) powder with curd and massage it to scalp and brush it on hair. Wash it off after 1 hour. This helps to prevent hair loss and dandruff. It also helps to increase hair growth.
3.    Dry orange peel in summer and powder it. Mix this powder with little curds massage it on face and neck. This acts as an excellent cleanser and cleanses clogged pores thus preventing acne and pimples.
4.    Curds when mixed with sugar acts as an excellent body coolant and instant energizer. It also quenches thirst.
5.    A mixture of besan (gram flour)  is an excellent  pack to rejuvenate facial skin and body skin.

This article is copy righted. The author Dr.SavithaSuri is an Ayurvedic Physician and web master of Ayurveda help through ayurveda remedies .Read more about medicinal properties of curd at Properties of curd as described in ayurveda

Properties of ghee (Clarified butter) as described in Ayurveda

Ghee and oil are widely used in ayurveda system of medicine as mediums to administer herbal preparations. Herbs, pastes of herbs or decoction of herbs are infused in oil or ghee and later administered to patients after diagnosing the conditions and diseases. 

Properties of ghee: Ghee prepared out of cow’s milk is considered to be having medicinal properties and is widely used ayurvedic preparations.

Dhee kaanthismruthikaarakam balakarm medhokaram shuddhikrudvataghnam shramanaashanam swarakaram pittapaham pushtidam

Cow’s ghee has following properties

It increases intelligence.
Helps in enhancing memory power.
Rejuvenates the skin from inside and increases its glow.
Boosts body energy
Detoxifies body
Normalizes vata. (Imbalance of vata causes diseases)
Increases clarity of voice.
Normalises pitta
Nourishes the body
Improves digestion and increases body fire.
Increases quality and quantity of semen.
It is very effective in disorders of eye.
Acts as a good Rasayana
It is the best form of fat.


Properties of ghee prepared out of buffalo’s milk

1.    Strengthens the body. 
2.    Makes you feel healthy
3.    Increases fairness and glow of skin.
4.    Normalizes kapha and vata
5.    It is very effective in piles (hemorrhoids),  IBS,
6.    It is used in disorders of eye.

Among these two ghee prepared out of cows milk is considered to have more medicinal properties. Freshly prepared ghee is very effective and useful.

The ghee which has been kept for 10 years is called as “PURANA GHRITA”. It is widely used in treating epilepsy and other neurological disorders.

The ghee which has been stored for more than 100 years is called as “KUMBHA SARPI”. The ghee which is stored more than 100 years is called as “MAHAGHRITA”. Mahaghrita  is used in chronic cough and disorders of eye,

The ghee should not be administered in tuberculosis, upper respiratory tract infections and bronchitis when mucous secretion is more, indigestion, constipation, fever and diabetes.

This article is copy righted. The author Dr.SavithaSuri is an Ayurvedic Physician and web master of Ayurveda help through ayurveda remedies .Read more about properties of ghee at Properties of ghee as described in ayurveda

Properties of Oils – as described in Ayurveda

Medicated Oils are widely used in Ayurveda for massaging, administering medicines and to treat diseases. Sesame oil , mustard oil and castor oil are mainly used as bases for most of the oil preparations. Among these sesame oil is considered as best. Oils are considered as excellent normalizers of vata and hence used in diseases in which vata dosha is dominant.

Properties of sesame oil:
Sesame oil brings aggravated vata to normal condition. When it is infused with various herbs, it almost cures all diseases. Sesame oil increases hair growth and enhances volume of hair and its shine. It strengthens the hair roots, kills lice and prevents formation of dandruff. It heals the boils of scalp caused by infections and prevents hair loss. Regular use of sesame oil, infused with hair friendly herbs prevents itching of scalp.

Massaging sesame oil on body has immense benefits. It rejuvenates body skin and increases its glow and fairness. It strengthens and tones the muscles and ligaments. Sesame oil massage is very beneficial in body pain, joint pains, insomnia and dry skin.

Sesame oil should not be used in diseases in which pitta and rakta (blood) are vitiated.

Properties of Castor oil:
Castor oil enhances body strength.It is very beneficial in all types diseases where vata is dominant. It normalizes and tames vitiated vata. Castor oil is widely used to treat skin diseases.

Properties of mustard oil:
Mustard oil is used in skin diseases, fungal infections and itching on skin surface.

Read complete article at Properties of oil as described in ayurveda

Health benefits of butter – An ayurveda perception

Dictionaries define butter as “a solid emulsion of fat globules, air, and water made by churning milk or cream and used as food”. Butter is known as “Navaneeta” in Sanskrit. It is referred as navaneeta in texts of ayurveda too.  Butter is usually made from cow’s or buffalo’s milk. But it can be made from milk of other mammals like sheep, goats, camel etc.

Butter prepared out of cow’s milk contains saturated fats, monosaturated fats, polyunsaturated fats, plenty of Vitamin A, Vtamin D, Vitamin D and Cholesterol.

Texts of ayurveda consider butter prepared from milk of cow, buffalo and sheep for medicinal use. The health benefits of butter are very well explained in ayurveda.

Butter prepared from cow’s milk has the following medicinal properties.

•    It acts as a body coolant.
•    This butter nourishes body tissues and increases body energy level.
•    The complexion of skin and strength of body increases when butter is consumed.
•    Butter increases appetite.
•    It alleviates vata and pitta.
•    Very effective in piles or hemorrhoids.
•    Reduces cough.
•    Elderly people and infants are benefited by butter. It acts like an elixir when administered to infants and elderly.

Butter prepared from buffalo’s milk has the following medicinal properties

•    It increases vata and kapha.
•    Butter prepared from buffalo’s milk is heavy to digest.
•    Consumption of this butter alleviates pitta, burning sensation and tiredness.
•    It increases quality and quantity of semen.
•    Body fat or medho dhatu gets increased by consuming this regularly.

Butter prepared from sheep’s milk alleviates vata, pitta and kapha and is superior to all other types of butter.Texts of ayurveda eulogize the medicinal properties of sheep's milk.

Sheep milk is treasure of nutrients. It is richer in vitamins A, B, and E, calcium, phosphorus, potassium, and magnesium than cow milk. The chains of fatty acids in sheep milk have many health benefits. They have little effect on blood cholesterol level of humans. It is easy to digest fat portion of sheep milk.

Butter mixed with sandal wood paste is usually massaged over babies body to cleanse its skin and soften it. This improves complexion and glow of skin. Butter massage also helps to prevent drying of baby skin.

Health Note: Butter AND cholesterol

•    If you have atherosclerosis, heart disease, high cholesterol ( hypercholesterolemia) in the upper range 200-239 mg/dL or high triglycerides (hypertriglyceridemia), the American Heart Association recommends a maximum daily limit of 200mg of dietary cholesterol, and advises no more than 7 percent of calories be eaten in the form of saturated fat.
•    A new study shows that exposure to a chemical called diacetyl, a component of artificial butter flavoring, can be harmful.

This article is copy righted. The author Dr.SavithaSuri is an Ayurvedic Physician and web master of Ayurveda help through ayurveda remedies .Read more about medicinal properties of butter at Health benefits of butter – An ayurveda perception

Ayurveda medicinal properties of onion

The herbaceous plant onion grows in temperate zones. It belongs to family “Liliaceae” and has latin name “Allium Cepa”. The plant reaches a height of 2-5 ft and bears cluster of greenish white flowers. Onions develop from the base of leaves to form underground bulbs. Seeds of onion are black in colour.

Onion is known as Phalandu in Sanskrit. Its medicinal properties and physical properties are explained in texts of ayurveda. Ayurveda acharyas have explained the uses of onion in various health conditions and have  classified onions based on their colours.  “Rakta phalandu” (Red coloured onion) and “shweta phalandu” (white coloured onion) are two varieties of onions.

According to ayurveda onions are heavy to digest and slimy to touch. They taste sweet and are pungent to smell. They increase fire component of body (ushna veerya) and acquire sweet taste after digestion (madhura vipaka).Its seeds and fruit are used in ayurvedic preparations.

Medicinal Uses of Onion in different health conditions:
1.Onion normalizes vata and increases kapha and pitta. Hence it is used in diseases which occur due to vitiation of vata. It acts as an anti inflammatory and reduces pain. Ayurvedic texts recommend its use in sciatica, arthritis and other diseases which involve bones, joints and peripheral nervous system.

2.The poultice of onion and other herbs help to reduce swelling and pain in joints and hard abscess.

3.Application of onion juice is recommended in pigments and dark spots which appear on face.

4.Use of Onion juice is recommended in ear pain and blurred vision.

5.Onion help to rejuvenate liver, normalize digestion, relieve constipation and increase appetite. Hence it is very beneficial in piles (hemorrhoids) , constipation, jaundice and indigestion.

6.White onions are recommended in bleeding disorders to reduce bleeding. Hence it is used in conditions like bleeding piles and bleeding through nose.

7.Onions are used in home remedies to reduce cough.

8.Onion and its seeds are known to help in erectile dysfunction, premature ejaculation and male infertility. It helps to increase libido, quality and quantity of semen. It is a very good vajikara.

9.It helps to reduce itching on skin.

10.As onions increase rajas and tamas of mind , it masks analyzing capacity, intelligence and grasping power.
This article is copy righted. The author Dr.SavithaSuri is an Ayurvedic Physician and web master of Ayurveda help through ayurveda consultations Read more about Health Benefits of Onion

Count on coconut (Cocos nucifera)

Coconut is a large palm (30 mts tall) and member of Arecaceae family with binomial nomenclature as Cocos nucifera . Coconut is known as Naarikela in ayurveda. This plant is grown throughout the tropics.

The fruit, flower and   root of this plant are used as ingredients for many ayurvedic preparations. The texts of ayurveda explain the properties of this fruit as - “Coconut is sweet to taste and act as body coolant. It is unctuous and heavy to digest.”

Tender Coconut water

Tender coconut water has soothing effect on intestines. It can be administered to infants as a rehydrating solution. It is known as “krimighna” i.e. kills intestinal parasites. When given as a regular health drink to children, it promotes growth and supplies good nutrients. Tender coconut water helps to overcome irritation of bladder and helps in preventing urinary tract infections. Regular consumption of this water helps in easy flow of urine and flushes out small kidney stones. It can be smeared on irritated skin (due to sun burn, rashes, chicken pox etc) to get a cooling effect. Tender coconut water increases glow and fairness of skin. Hiccups and thirst get quickly subsided on consumption of tender coconut water.

Uses of Coconut flowers

Flowers are used in prevention of frequent bowel movements in diarrhea and dysentery. They help to normalize vitiated pitta and rakta (blood). Flowers help to reduce frequent urination.

Uses of Coconut kernel (Coconut pulp)

Tender pulp cools the body and provides nourishment. It is very easy to digest and reduces acidity. Tender coconut pulp helps to boost body energy and strength.
Fully ripe pulp acts as a very good aphrodisiac (Vajikara). It is known to increase quality and quantity of semen. It is high in dietary fibers and cleanses the intestines. Fully ripe pulp is used in Indian recipes

Uses of Coconut Oil:

According to ayurveda coconut oil is mainly used to massage scalp. This increases hair growth and prevents dandruff and hair loss. Coconut oil accelerates healing of wounds and prevents diseases which arise due to dry skin. Here are few uses which are mentioned in ayurveda.

1.Ayurveda recommends Coconut oil or naarikela taila (in ayurveda) in conditions like dry skin and skin diseases. It has been found that application of coconut oil is beneficial in psoriasis, eczema and dermatitis.
2.Massaging coconut oil on body has myriad benefits. It prevents formation of wrinkles, ageing of skin and pigmentation. It is known as varnya in ayurveda. Varnya means restoring the complexion and glow of skin
3.It relieves stress when massaged on scalp and rejuvenates scalp and hair. It is classified as keshya. Keshya signifies its action as a hair friendly herb. Application of coconut oil helps to prevent hair loss,dandruff and increase hair growth. It also acts as a natural hair conditioner.
4.Massaging foot with coconut oil helps to soften cracked heels and increases the beauty of foot.
5.Application of coconut oil accelerates the process of wound healing. It is very safe to apply on cuts and wounds
This article is copyrighted. This article is copy righted. The author Dr.SavithaSuri is an Ayurvedic Physician and web master of Ayurveda Help Through ayurveda consultations

Commending Cumin seeds

Cummin seed or jeera is seeds of flowering plant Cuminum Cyminum . This plant, native of east India and east Mediterranean, belongs to family Apeaceae.  The herbaceous plant Cuminum Cyminum  grows to a height of 20- 30 cms. Leaves of this plant are pinnate and bear thread like leaflets.

The seeds of Cuminum Cyminum have gained their place as main spice in Indian, African, Chinese, Cuban and Mexican cuisines, due to their distinctive popular aroma. It is mainly used to spice and season variety of dishes like curries, chutneys, masalas etc. It is extensively used in India to season dishes. Due to  its numerous medicinal properties, jeera is used as an ingredient in many home remedies and ayurvedic preparations. The strong aroma of jeera or cumin seeds is due to the presence of compound cuminaldehyde

This spice has been praised as jeeraka , jarana and ajaaji for its medicinal qualities in ayurvedic texts. These names refer to its carminative and digestive properties. According ayurvedic principles these seeds balance vata and kapha.

Medicinal properties of Jeera or Cumin seeds:

According to ayurveda jeera exhibits the following medicinal properties.

(Shubhrajeeram katu graahi paachanam deepanam laghu
Garbhashayashuddhikaram ruksham balyam sugandhikam
Tiktham vamikshayaadhmanam vaatam kushtam visham jwaram )

1.    It reduces superficial inflammation and pain.
2.    Apart from kindling appetite, it digests food and normalizes vata in digestive system.
3.    Reduces pain experienced during indigestion, flatulence or heaviness of stomach .
4.    It purifies blood
5.    Cumin seeds act on female reproductive system by reducing inflammation of uterus.
6.    It is eulogized for its galactogog properties. (Increases milk production in lactating mothers).
7.    As it normalizes vata and kapha it acts as an aphrodesiac.
8.    It is a skin friendly herb and reduces itching.

Home remedies using jeera

1.    A fine paste of cumin seeds (cumin seeds ground with water), when applied on boils or aching body parts gives relief from pain.
2.    Water boiled with ground jeera has to be given regularly to lactating mothers. This increases breast milk and reduces inflammation of uterus.
3.    Boil ground jeera in water and allow it to cool down. Add a pinch of cardamom to filtered jeera water. Gargling with this flavored water helps to keep the mouth fresh, heals mouth ulcers and eliminates foul smell.
4.    Roast jeera without oil till it warm. Grind this to a fine powder along with rock salt. Massage gums with this powder. This helps to prevent bleeding from gums and strengthens them.
5.    Boil a tea spoon of jeera in a glass of water, allow it to cool. Consuming this water frequently relieves indigestion and flatulence.
6.    Consuming powdered jeera with honey reduces colic pain and reduces diarrhoea caused due to indigestion.
7.    A tea prepared by boiling cumin seeds and a small piece of fresh ginger help to give relief in common cold.
8.    Mix a spoon of ground roasted cumin seeds ,½ spoon of fresh  ginger juice and a pinch of salt in a glass of butter milk. Frequent consumption of this butter milk helps to relieve piles and sooths inflamed intestine.
9.    Patients suffering from irritable bowel syndrome can use pomegranate juice mixed with roasted and ground jeera powder. This helps to reduce frequency of stools and sooths colon.

Precaution has to be taken while roasting cumin seeds .Cumin seeds have to be roasted in low heat till it becomes warm and should be taken off from stove when it is sufficiently warm to touch. This precaution helps to prevent the escape of volatile compounds of jeera.


This article is copy righted. The author Dr.SavithaSuri is an Ayurvedic Physician and web master of Ayurveda help through ayurveda consultations . Read article at Ayurveda Health Benefits of Cumin seeds-jeera drsavithasuri@gmail.com

Gaining health from garlic

Garlic ( Allium Sativum) belongs to the family Liliaceae. The plant has leaves which are long, narrow and flat like grass. The bulb is of a compound nature, consisting of numerous bulblets, known technically as 'cloves,' grouped together between the membraneous scales and enclosed within a whitish skin, which holds them as in a sac.

It is referred to by different names in ayurveda . The names describe its qualities. It is known as Rasona (Rasena vunaha = as it is devoid of amla rasa or sour taste) Ugraghandhi ( ugra Gandhi = as it has strong pungent smell )

It has Snigdha (sticky), teekshna (penetrating) , pichhila (slimy), guru (heavy), sara (quickly spreading) qualities. It has all rasas (tastes) except amla (sour).

It reduces kapha and vata but it should be used with lot of precautions in persons who have pitta prakruti and in patients who are suffering from rakta, pitta disorders.
Ancient greeks used to place garlic on stones at cross roads as a supper for Hecate

(Greek goddess of the three paths, guardian of the household, protector of everything newly born, and the goddess of witchcraft ).According to Pliny garlic and onion were invoked as deities by the Egyptians while taking oaths.

According to a Mohammedan legend 'when Satan stepped out from the Garden of Eden after the fall of man, Garlic sprang up from the spot where he placed his left foot, and Onion from that where his right foot touched.'

Garlic contains pungent, volatile, essential oil. This oil is a sulphide of radical Allyl. The intensely smelling allyl compound has such a diffusive property that even when the crushed bulb is rubbed to the soles of the feet, its odor is exhaled by the lungs after some time.

Medicinal Action and Uses

Acharya charaka has said that garlic is an effective remedy in conditions like intestinal worm infestations, skin disorders, low libido and erectile dysfunction.

Acharya Sushruta has appreciated the uses of this herb in skin disorders,low libido and erectile dysfunction.. It also improves memory, modulates voice, enhances complexion, improves eye sight, strengthens bones and joints, improves digestion and regularizes bowel movement. It is very useful in cardiac diseases too.

As an antibiotic:

Many marvelous effects and healing powers have been ascribed to Garlic. Garlic is popularly known as nature's antibiotic.As an antiseptic, its use has long been recognized. It is very effective against fungus, Yeast and viral infections. It is said to prevent anthrax in cattle, being largely used for the purpose.

As an expectorant:

Garlic reduces increased kapha. Garlic syrup is an excellent medicine for asthma, hoarseness of voice, coughs, difficulty in breathing, and most other disorders pertaining to the lungs. As this promotes expectoration it is very useful in chronic bronchitis. Garlic is a very good remedy for whooping cough.

As a cholesterol reducing agent:

Many publications have shown that garlic supports the cardiovascular system. According to them it lowers cholesterol and triglyceride levels in the blood, inhibits platelet stickiness and slows blood coagulation. It is mildly antihypertensive and has antioxidant activity.

As an antihypertensive:

Garlic is considered as one of the most effective remedies to lower blood pressure. It eases the spasm of small arteries and reduces the pressure on them.

As a remedy in digestive disorders

Garlic stimulates peristaltic action and the secretion of the digestive juices. It eliminates body toxins. It has an antimicrobial effect and is an excellent remedy for intestinal infections. It expels intestinal worms.

As an anti inflammatory:

Garlic has anti-inflammatory properties. It is effectively used to cure arthritis, migraine and other inflammatory conditions.

Garlic in skin Disorders:

A regular consumption of garlic purifies blood and reduces minor skin infections.

Garlic and cancer:

Few studies suggest that eating garlic regularly reduces the risk of esophageal, colon and stomach cancer. This may be partly due to garlics ability to reduce the formation of carcinogenic compounds.

Garlic as an aphrodisiac:

Garlic is said to be a tonic for impotence. It also treats sexual debility caused by over indulgence in sex and nervous exhaustion. It is said to be very useful in older men.

Garlic has always been known as an aphrodisiac. It can improve blood circulation significantly. According to recent studies an enzyme called nitric oxide synthase (NOS) appears to be responsible for the mechanism of erection. Researches on garlic have shown that garlic can stimulate production of this enzyme.

Garlic in pregnancy

New research shows that consuming garlic during pregnancy can reduce the risk of raised blood pressure in pregnancy (Pre-eclampsia). Studies have shown that garlic may help to boost the birth-weight of babies.

Action of garlic in Herpes:

In future garlic may find its place in treatment of genital herpes. It was found that the oral or topical application of garlic or garlic extract markedly reduced the outbreak of the genital herpes virus.

Home remedies with garlic

1. Used in cookery it is a great aid to digestion, and keeps the mucosal coats of the stomach healthy.

2. A clove or two of Garlic, pounded with honey and taken two or three nights successively, is effective rheumatism.

3. Grind few cloves of garlic and pour ¼ cup of boiled water on it. Add this infusion to sugar syrup . This is an excellent cough expectorant to children and elderly adults.

4. when sniffed , it greatly helps in relieving hysteria.

5. Garlic juice taken with hot water twice a daily relieves asthma attacks.

6. Three cloves of garlic boiled with milk taken every day at night cures productive cough and bronchitis.

7. 10 drops of garlic juice with 2 teaspoon of honey reduces the acuteness of asthmatic symptoms. It can also be administered at the time of attack.

8. Taking garlic juice with fresh water regularly reduces high blood pressure

9. Half a clove of raw garlic consumes each day can increase body activity to dissolve blood clots, thereby preventing heart attacks and strokes.

Precautions and adverse effects :

Some may experience heartburn and flatulence when they consume garlic. Individuals who are consuming anti coagulant drugs should consult their dietician before consuming garlic products as garlic has anti coagulant property. It should be used cautiously by individuals who have bleeding disorders. Garlic should never be consumed during migraine headache. Avoid rubbing garlic on skin as it causes burns and peeling of skin.

This article is copy righted. The author Dr. Krishna Rao.S is an Ayurvedic Physician and web master of Ayurveda Health care for men. Read Health Benefits of Garlic

Turmeric - Go for Gold

Ayurveda the ancient medical science is based on the principle of preventing diseases. It directs us to resist the diseases through our food habits and life styles. Same principle was stressed by Hippocrates also “Let your food be your medicine” was his advice to man kind

Let’s know more about a very well known spice in Ayurveda yet not completely understood by common man. Over the last several years, there has been increasing interest in turmeric and its medicinal properties. But Ayurveda has immensely praised the medicinal qualities of turmeric which finds its place in almost all ayurvedic preparations related to liver and skin disorders.

This herb has occupied the shelves of every Indian kitchen since 6000 years and is considered as king of kitchen. It is used daily in cooking. Apart from cooking it is also used as beauty aid and as a dye.

Turmeric (Curcuma Longa) belongs to Zingiberacae Family and is a perennial plant that grows 3 to 5 feet high in the tropical regions .In India it is grown allover but specially in Bengal, Bombay and in Tamilnadu .

Ayurveda appreciates the medicinal qualities and color of turmeric. This is evident through the various names of turmeric specified in ancient texts of ayurveda. Some of these are

• Haridra – enhancer of body complexion.
• Kanchani - looks like gold .
• Nisha - imparts beauty by enhancing complexion which is as beautiful as full moon night
• Gowri - yellow in color
• Krimighni - works as a Antibacterial and antihelmenthic.
• Yoshit priya - used in Gynecological disorders.

In Hindi turmeric is known as haldi .
The rhizomes or roots of this plant are used as medicine and for other purposes. The rhizomes are boiled, dried and then powdered. This powder is used for all purposes.

The active chemical component of turmeric is curcumin. Curcumin is a strong antioxidant and reduces inflammation by reducing histamine levels. Curcumin protects liver, reduces cholesterol, and prevents internal blood clotting thus preventing heart attacks and liver tissue damages.

Turmeric is very safe. But special precautions should be taken in persons who have gall stones, hyperacidity, stomach ulcers and obstructive jaundice. Ayurveda explains the qualities of turmeric as light and dry. It has pungent and bitter taste. It is widely used in skin, respiratory and liver disorders. It purifies blood and enhances complexion.

Medicinal properties of turmeric – Go for Gold!

Effects of Turmeric----

On Liver

Ayurveda has recommended this golden herb to purify blood and prevent it from clotting. It is extensively used to protect liver from toxins and microbial. Turmeric increases the secretion of bile, promotes free flow of bile. This herb can be used to overcome toxic effects of alcohol on liver. This reduces cholesterol and protects heart.

Use of ½ tea spoon of turmeric with warm water rejuvenates the liver and expels toxins out of it.

On respiratory system

Turmeric is very effective in bronchitis, productive cough and asthma.One spoon of turmeric boiled in milk should be consumed with a spoon of pure ghee in conditions like bronchitis, asthma and productive cough. This gives very good relief and expectorates excessively produced mucous in lungs.

On ageing

The antioxidant properties of turmeric give us young looks and make us to feel young. It reduces inflammation in joints, protects the heart, reduces cholesterol and keeps us very healthy.

On Diabetes
It is widely used in ayurvedic preparations for diabetes. It lowers the blood sugar and increases glucose metabolism.

On Uterus
It initiates regular menstrual cycle and reduces menstrual cramps.

On skin

Blood nourishes the skin and it is known fact that pure blood always keeps the skin glowing and radiant. Turmeric purifies blood, nourishes skin and gives it a healthy natural glow and radiance. A traditional face pack of India consists of gram flour, pure turmeric powder, milk and honey. This reduces inflammation of skin, smoothens it and prevents many skin ailments.

On Stomach and Intestines

Turmeric enhances digestion, normalizes metabolism and expels intestinal parasites

On Wounds

Turmeric accelerates healing process and readily reduces pain and inflammation. Thick Paste of turmeric applied on wounds acts as an excellent antibiotic and anti inflammatory.

On Yogis

Turmeric purifies and cleans the body. It is a tailor made herb for yogis. It increases the flexibility of muscles, reduces inflammation in muscles and joints and helps to perform yoga with confidence and delight.
Is it not a wonderful treasure which nature has stored for us in this golden herb ? Now let us start a gold rush.


This article is copy righted. The author Dr. Krishna Rao.S is an Ayurvedic Physician and web master of Ayurveda Health care for men. Read complete article at Ayurveda Health Benefits of Turmeric