Vegetarian or Not ? Unpacking the Ayurvedic Diet

Food

Ayurveda is a traditional system of medicine that places a strong emphasis on harmony and balance in all facets of life, including diet and nutrition. Although Ayurvedic diet is frequently connected with vegetarianism, adopting an Ayurvedic lifestyle does not require becoming a vegetarian. Ayurveda’s food advice based on an  individual’s body constitution (Prakriti), digestive capacity and health, since it understands that each person is unique and has varied nutritional needs.     Ayurveda also stresses the need to consume full, seasonal meals that are fresh and in season and that are suitable for one’s constitution and digestive system. This indicates that the quality of the cuisine emphasized over its vegetarian status. Animal products can give the body vital nutrients and nourishment when eaten in moderation and with awareness, according to Ayurveda. To protect the environment and health, Ayurveda recommends sourcing and processing animal products ethically.      Importance of Vegetarian Diet   Ayurveda also acknowledges the importance of the mind-body connection to general health and wellness. It highlights the significance of mindful eating, which is being present and conscious of the food and eating process while avoiding distractions like television or mobile phones. Ayurveda emphasizes peaceful meal settings to avoid negative effects on digestion due to emotions like stress, anger, or disturbance.   In conclusion, living an Ayurvedic lifestyle does not require being a vegetarian. An Ayurvedic diet requires individuals to consume, fresh, and seasonal foods, which suit their Prakriti and digestive capacity.   Ayurveda acknowledges that animal products can give the body vital nutrients and sustenance when ingested in moderation and with awareness. Ayurveda recommends responsibly sourcing and processing animal products to protect the environment and health. To maintain the best digestive health, Ayurveda highlights mindful eating for optimal digestive health, discouraging eating under stress or distraction.   If you are struggling with any health issues, you can either book a consultation with us or send us a message via WhatsApp to +91 79074 89839. We have the best Ayurvedic doctors in Trivandrum who are always glad to help you. If you have any queries, contact us.  You can also visit us at our hospital.

Bad hair health ? These 3 actions of yours Could be the Reason!

I’ve seen people doing everything on earth to maintain their hair health, but still ending up with dull and damaged hair.  What could be the reason?    There are three things that you should never do to your hair according to Ayurveda. And if you’re doing any of these, it’s time to stop!      Pulling your hair back      Pulling your hair back constantly causes a condition called “Traction Alopecia,” which results in a receding hairline.    Traction alopecia is a form of hair loss that occurs due to prolonged tension or pulling on the hair. It is most commonly caused by tight hairstyles, such as braids, weaves, or extensions, that pull on the hair for an extended period of time.    Traction alopecia usually affects the hairline and the areas around the ears, where the hair is most tightly pulled. The hair loss can range from mild to severe and can be permanent if the tension on the hair is not relieved. Some common symptoms of traction alopecia include a receding hairline, small bumps or blisters on the scalp, itching or tenderness of the scalp, and broken or damaged hairs at the hairline.    Treatment for traction alopecia involves removing the source of tension on the hair, such as changing hairstyles or removing hair extensions. It is also important to avoid hairstyles that pull on the hair and to use gentle hair care practices, such as using a wide-tooth comb and avoiding excessive heat styling. Let your hair loose and do not try these types of hairstyles that pull your hair constantly.    Frequent hot head showers    Hot water can damage your hair in several ways. It can strip the natural oils from the scalp and hair, leaving it dry and brittle. Also, it can also lead to split ends, breakage and dull-looking hair.    Hot water can also weaken the hair shaft, making it more prone to damage from brushing or styling. This can lead to hair loss over time. Hot water can also cause the cuticle layer of the hair to lift, which can make the hair look frizzy and rough.  Using hot water on colour-treated hair can also cause the colour to fade  quickly. Hot water can open up the hair cuticles, allowing the colour to escape.    To avoid damage to your hair, it is best to use room temperature water when washing your hair, as this will help to preserve your hair’s natural oils and prevent the hair shaft from weakening.    Unclean scalp    Not washing your hair often will lead to an unclean scalp due to product buildup, dirt, sweat etc. This can lead to hair fall, dandruff, acne etc. An unclean scalp can lead to a variety of negative after-effects.  Accumulated dirt, oil, and dead skin on the scalp can block follicles, causing inflammation, itching, and hair loss.   If you are struggling with any health issues, you can either book a consultation with us or send us a message via WhatsApp to +91 79074 89839. We have the best Ayurvedic doctors in Trivandrum who are always glad to help you. If you have any queries, contact us.  You can also visit us at our hospital.

Is Ayurveda going to die?

An arrangement of turmeric, spice, oil bowl and bottle, and massage poultice boluses used in Ayurveda massage, with an exotic flower and incense burning in the background.

Ayurveda is a traditional system of medicine that has been in use for over 5000 years. It is a holistic method of treating illnesses that involves lifestyle modifications and natural therapies. It has grown in popularity recently as more individuals look for alternatives to Western medicine. Given the accelerating speed of modernization and the emergence of new medical technologies, some skeptics wonder if it will endure. Ayurveda has proven its effectiveness in treating various ailments over the centuries. Numerous studies have, in fact, documented its effectiveness in treating not only common colds but also chronic diseases.  The long-standing success of Ayurveda speaks to its value as a system of medicine. Ayurveda is not static. It has evolved over the centuries to adapt to changing circumstances and new medical knowledge. Ayurvedic practitioners have always been open to incorporating new techniques and remedies into their practice, as long as they align with Ayurvedic principles. This flexibility has allowed Ayurveda to stay relevant and effective for thousands of years, and it will continue to do so in the future.   Spirituality in Ayurveda     Ayurveda is not just a medical system, but a way of life. It emphasizes the importance of maintaining balance and harmony in all aspects of life, from diet and exercise to relationships and spiritual practices. This holistic approach to health and well-being resonates with many people who seek a more balanced and mindful way of living. As such, Ayurveda is more than just a medical system; it is a cultural tradition that has endured for millennia. The popularity of Ayurveda has been growing, and it is no longer limited to one region.  I am experiencing it personally as I have people from across the globe approach me for treatment every day. As more and more people become aware of the benefits of Ayurveda, its popularity is likely to continue to grow. In fact,  it is already gaining traction in the West, where people are increasingly turning to alternative and complementary medicine to supplement conventional treatments. Ayurveda has been in existence for over 5000 years. Over the centuries, it has been documented that it is effective in treating various ailments.. It has also evolved over time to adapt to changing circumstances and incorporate new medical knowledge. Ayurveda is not just a medical system, but a way of life that people seeking  more balanced and mindful  lifestyle.  As such, the system of medicine is likely to continue to be relevant and effective in the future.   If you are struggling with any health issues, you can either book a consultation with us or send us a message via WhatsApp to +91 79074 89839. We have the best Ayurvedic doctors in Trivandrum who are always glad to help you. If you have any queries, contact us.  You can also visit us at our hospital.

Health Signs in Ayurveda

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In this period of vast amount of online information available on health and healthy living, people find themselves lost in this rat race to health and too overwhelmed to begin their journey towards a healthy living. Ayurveda believes primarily in digestion to improve your overall health. Ayurveda can help you in achieving good health and according to Ayurveda, the following are the    Signs of good health   Vata, Pitta, and Kapha in perfect balance  Efficient working of all tissue systems (blood, bone, muscles, etc.) Good digestion and elimination Clarity of sense organs (eyes, ears, nose, etc.) Pleasant, happy mind and soul In order to achieve these aspects of good health, Ayurveda recommends you to start by getting into a routine.   Ayurveda suggests a simple morning routine that includes the following steps:   Step 1:  Wake up early in the morning (ideally before sunrise or with sunrise) as this is the natural Vatakala that helps your body to push your bowel movements down. Step 2:  Brush your teeth with Ayurvedically compliant toothpaste as most toothpaste available in the market has a sweet taste and Ayurveda does not recommend this. Ayurveda recommends toothpastes to taste like Katu (Spicy), Tikta (Bitter) and Kashaya (Astringent taste). Step 3:  Tongue scrapping using copper or steel tongue scrapper, however, refrain from using plastic ones. Step 4:   Oil pulling (holding oil in your mouth). Ayurveda recommends organic black sesame oil or hot water or even milk but strongly discourages the usage of coconut oil. Step 5:   Drink warm water or water infused with herbs. Step 6:   Abhyanga (oil massage) for at least 4 to 5 minutes. Standing out in the Sun during Abhyanga can help improve Vitamin D levels in your body. After Abhyanga, you should move your joints; light physical activity like Yoga is advised for your physical well-being. Step 7:  Warm or room temperature shower. You should make sure not to let warm water fall on your head or scalp as this will lead to hair loss and hair fall. Step 8:  A warm, nourishing, freshly cooked breakfast.   Creating a simple morning routine will enable you to take the first step towards good health.   If you are struggling with any health issues, you can either book a consultation with us or send us a message via WhatsApp to +91 79074 89839. We have the best Ayurvedic doctors in Trivandrum who are always glad to help you. If you have any queries, contact us.  You can also visit us at our hospital.

Have you tried coconut sprouts ?

I have always been fascinated by the coconut tree! It is considered the “tree of life” by many cultures around the world. Coconut trees provide so many different products and is a staple food in many tropical regions. One of the lesser-known parts of the coconut tree is the coconut sprouts. People often overlook this delicious and nutritious delicacy. Coconut sprouts, also known as coconut hearts or palm hearts, are the inner core of the coconut tree’s growing tip. People usually harvest them before the tree has a chance to fully mature, typically when the tree is around three years old. The sprouts are tender and succulent, with a mild flavour that is similar to asparagus or artichokes. One of the best things about coconut sprouts is their nutritional value. They are low in calories but high in fibre, vitamins, and minerals, including potassium, vitamin C, vitamin B6 and more. Also being a good source of antioxidants, they help protect against cellular damage and disease.   Ways to prepare coconut sprouts   There are many different ways to prepare coconut sprouts. You can eat them raw, slice and add them to salads or sandwiches, or cook and use them in a variety of dishes. One of my favourite ways to enjoy coconut sprouts is to sauté them with garlic and olive oil. Then serve them as a side dish or add them to a stir-fry. One can also pickle, can, or dry them and use them in soups, stews, and other recipes.   Medicinal properties   In addition to their nutritional and culinary benefits, coconut sprouts also have some medicinal properties. They help regulate blood sugar levels, lower cholesterol and boost the immune system. They also have a calming effect on the nervous system and help relieve stress and anxiety.   Despite their many benefits, coconut sprouts are not widely known or available outside of tropical regions. This is partly because they are a relatively rare and delicate crop. And partly because they are not as well-known or popular as other parts of the coconut tree. However, there is growing interest in them and their potential as a sustainable and healthy food source. As someone who has grown up around coconut trees and eaten coconut sprouts many times, I feel lucky to have access to this delicious and nutritious delicacy. I believe that more people should learn about and appreciate their many benefits – both for their health and for the environment. By promoting coconut sprouts and other underutilized crops, we can help diversify our diets and support more sustainable and resilient food systems.   If you are struggling with any health issues, you can either book a consultation with us or send us a message via WhatsApp to +91 79074 89839. We have the best Ayurvedic doctors in Trivandrum who are always glad to help you. If you have any queries, contact us.  You can also visit us at our hospital.                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                        … Continue reading Have you tried coconut sprouts ?

Why Ash Gourd Juice is Great for the Mind?

If your mind is like a monkey jumping from one thought to other, then Ayurveda has a remedy for you. Sushruta – one of the three main authors of Ayurveda explains a simple remedy with ash gourd to calm your mind. The ancient ayurvedic remedy known as ash gourd, also called winter melon, recognizes for its calming benefits. It helps to reduce stress and anxiety levels and improves mental clarity. This is even prescribed as a medicine for conditions like psychosis You can use this simple recipe for the ultimate calming effect on your mind. Blend the ash gourd after boiling it in water and add a small quantity of Mishri (rock sugar). Consume a small portion of this juice – not more than 30ml after breakfast by around 11:00 am daily. However, experts advise not to consume this on an empty stomach as it may adversely affect your physical well-being.   Ash Gourd and Doshas     Ash gourd can subside Vata and Pitta Dosha in the body and has a very cooling potency. However, people having underlying issues like colds, asthma, and sinusitis should take care while taking it due to its cooling properties. Asian cuisine traditionally uses the nutrient-dense vegetable for its medicinal properties. Ash gourd is rich in vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C, potassium, and magnesium. It also contains a unique type of fiber called pectin, which has been shown to promote gut health and boost immunity. It  also helps improve digestion and promote healthy weight loss. Also it helps in treating acid reflux, bleeding disorders and constipation problems. It  also acts as an aphrodisiac, which increases sexual potency and improves your sexual health. With its versatile use in Ayurvedic medicine, ash gourd can be a great choice for anyone looking for natural ways to bring more balance and peace into their lives.   If you are struggling with any health issues, you can either book a consultation with us or send us a message via WhatsApp to +91 79074 89839. We have the best Ayurvedic doctors in Trivandrum who are always glad to help you. If you have any queries, contact us.  You can also visit us at our hospital.

Why I became an Ayurvedic Doctor?

As a full-time ayurvedic doctor, I pack my days from 6 am to 8 pm. Beyond patient consultations, my responsibilities include team meetings, product and medicine supervision, and creating content about Ayurveda.  Despite my busy schedule, I make it a point to remain active on social media. Here’s why.  Right Information First and foremost, I believe that the choices we make in life should stem from awareness rather than ignorance. My ultimate goal, dream or vision is to bring global acceptance to Ayurveda.  Some individuals write books, some deliver talks, and I create content – it’s as simple as that.  Consider this: There’s no money to be made if everyone enjoys good health. The real money lies in selling sickness. The medical, pharmaceutical, and diagnostics industries, consequently, all thrive on this unfortunate reality! The beauty of Ayurveda, unlike other medical systems, is that it not only talks about treating diseases, but also an equally bigger wing – prevention. And let me ask you this: Is there much money to be made from prevention? No, there isn’t.  That’s precisely why large corporate companies around the world conduct wellness programs and even have dedicated wellness departments that hold wellness talks and the like to raise awareness about prevention. Even if it looks like the act of engaging employees, the hidden agenda is also to help insurance premiums. It’s a great example – there’s no fortune in wellness, only in illness. Ayurveda, on the other hand, as a system of medicine, beautifully embodies the concept of prevention.  Coming back to the financial aspect of sickness, the modern pharmaceutical and diagnostics industries heavily rely on medical professionals and their practices. Trust me when I say that numerous pharmaceutical companies and diagnostic labs reach out to me, asking me to refer their lab tests and medicines for my patients.  The perks offered can be quite enticing, in fact, they come with promises of international travel and more.  We have all been wired subconsciously by marketing strategies. For instance, let’s talk about the culture of blood tests. Even if you’re dealing with a specific health condition, it’s entirely ethical, therefore, for a doctor to recommend relevant tests.  These tests, therefore, aid in accurate diagnosis and, in turn, help plan the most suitable treatment.  This is a standard practice and I do it too.  That’s doing blood tests for diagnosing diseases. That’s a thing.  But what about running blood tests to diagnose health itself? I’m not just talking about blood tests; I’m referring to DNA tests, food intolerance tests, food allergy tests and countless others. Even children as young as 3 or 4 years old undergo such tests – all in the name of diagnosing health. I understand that not everyone may agree with what I’m saying and that’s okay – that’s how marketing has deeply ingrained certain beliefs and preferences within our minds.  People love to be comfortable. We’re surrounded by every possible convenience to make our lives comfortable. People prefer to hear what makes them comfortable. They gravitate toward familiar narratives. But when someone presents ideas that challenge their preconceptions, they get uncomfortable. Here is a lot of misinformation or programmed information around. I aim to bring your awareness, therefore, by giving you the right information.  Since what I share may differ from what you’re accustomed to hearing, it may make you uncomfortable. But that “uncomfortableness” is even a word, then it  will challenge you and make you think.  That’s why I exist for you – to offer knowledge about Ayurveda and health that is real, practical and authentic.   As I mentioned at the beginning, I firmly believe that the health choices we make should be based on awareness rather than ignorance.  And for that very reason, I am here for you!      If you are struggling with any health issues, you can either book a consultation with us or send us a message via WhatsApp to +91 79074 89839. We have the best Ayurvedic doctors in Trivandrum who are always glad to help you. If you have any queries, contact us.  You can also visit us at our hospital.                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                        … Continue reading Why I became an Ayurvedic Doctor?

Ayurvedic Formulations : Exploring Sahasrayogam

History of Ayurvedic Formulations   It is a traditional Kerala Ayurvedic textbook that has 1000 formulations used to treat diseases in Ayurveda. Originally written in Sanskrit, this book is priceless for any practicing Ayurvedic doctor, and it primarily talks of formulations made from medicinal plants available in Kerala!  (  Sahasrayogam  –    Sahasra = 1000,   Yoga = formulation  )Like any Ayurvedic text, the book is also written in the form of Shlokas (verses). The learning method used to study texts like these, or even all of the Ayurvedic texts is, by repetition.  This is how learning Ayurvedic texts look like: Reading aloud the verses, grasping the content, and repeating over and over again until it becomes by heart. The more you repeat, the more it gets cemented in the memory. The best part is, if you learn as a verse, chances are you will never forget it in your lifetime. Remember the poems you had learned by heart as a child versus the stories- you remember the poems more!  Personally, this book has helped me a lot in my practice. The moments I realise the importance of these verses “flowing” from memory is during some consultations. When a patient presents with weird combinations of Rakta-Pitta imbalance, deranged metabolism, and less of Kapha complaints and still struggling with memory loss, you know you have to give a “Chandanadi” formulation and not a Pinda Taila. This quick realisation comes only if the Shlokas are “flowing”.  It is said that it takes 30 years to learn even 1% of Ayurveda. It’s an ocean of knowledge. Learning it is a never-ending process. Just imagine this book has 1000 formulations and Ayurveda overall has around 30,000 formulations described in the Samhitas. It is not humanly possible to learn all of this in a lifetime. I know this, but still, I try to learn at least one new sloka per day. Some progress is better than no progress at all.  All of us – including you and me, if you are reading this post – we are all these little minuscule beings standing on the shore of the vast ocean of Ayurveda looking at the never-ending horizon with nothing but wonder!  And if you have any queries, book a consultation with us. We are more than happy to help to bring back you to your good health.   If you are struggling with any health issues, you can either book a consultation with us or send us a message via WhatsApp to +91 79074 89839. We have the best Ayurvedic doctors in Trivandrum who are always glad to help you. If you have any queries, contact us.  You can also visit us at our hospital.

Coconut Water in Ayurveda

Ayurveda places great importance on natural remedies and nutrition for maintaining a healthy body and mind. Tender coconut water is one of the most treasured natural remedies in Ayurveda.  This refreshing drink is rich in nutrients and has numerous health benefits, making it a staple in Ayurvedic practices. 

Why do you get diseases?

While we readily acknowledge and celebrate birth, the topics of diseases and death often evoke fear and discomfort. Similar to birth, in addition, death and diseases are inevitable aspects of life. While death is unavoidable, you can take preventive measures to resist one of the major causes of it – diseases!   Why do you get diseases?   Caraka Samhita mentions 5 reasons why diseases are caused.     Mithya Ahara Vihara Adopting an unhealthy diet and sedentary lifestyle can contribute to the development of chronic diseases, such as diabetes and hypertension, commonly referred to as “lifestyle diseases.     Asathmya Indriyatha Samyoga Misuse of the senses can cause imbalance of the body and the mind, leading to the accumulation of toxins (Ama) in the body.     Karma   According to Ayurveda, Karma refers to actions and their outcomes, including the diseases one experiences. They are often a result of our past actions.     Kaala   With the passage of time, the body naturally weakens, its immune system becomes less effective and it becomes more susceptible to various diseases.     Prajnaparadha   Ayurveda considers Prajnapradha – an offense against wisdom – as the main cause of all diseases; therefore, it emphasizes the importance of maintaining mental clarity and insight. In life, where there is hope, there is also despair. Just as normalcy coexists with adversity, similarly, birth accompanies death and disease. While there are certain aspects beyond our control, there are also elements that we have complete control over. It is within our power to take meaningful actions, right at this moment. I will cite an example: You may not be able to naturally reverse the grey hair or that wrinkle that appears after 30 to how it looked when you were 16. But we can do a daily Abhyanga to keep up the youth of skin and hair! The key is to take small steps and approach life one day at a time, striving to live a life free from disease through every means available to us.   If you are struggling with any health issues, you can either book a consultation with us or send us a message via WhatsApp to +91 79074 89839. We have the best Ayurvedic doctors in Trivandrum who are always glad to help you. If you have any queries, contact us.  You can also visit us at our hospital.