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Hadjod (Cissus Quadrangularis): Health Benefits 

Hadjod ( Cissus Quadrangularis) is a powerful Ayurvedic remedy prescribed for improving bone health and healing fractures, among other things.    Ayurvedic Benefits of Hadjod for Your Joints       Hadjod is an anti-osteoporotic herb known in Ayurveda.  It strengthens the skeletal system and is often recommended for individuals suffering from osteoporosis.  This herb works by activating osteoblast, which is helpful in bone formation. For all those seeking to increase their bone density, Hadjod is the best Ayurvedic medicine. Hadjod means “bone joiner” and helps in faster fracture recovery. This makes it very effective in repairing broken bones as it boosts collagen production. Hadjod also boosts the tissue regeneration process and ensures optimal blood supply to the affected area thereby helping in quicker healing of bones. This wonder herb controls inflammation and enhances flexibility. Whether you are battling arthritis or suffer from chronic joint pains, Hadjod can be a game changer.     Uses of Hadjod in Various Health Issues     Osteoporosis   It is a condition where bones become weak and are likely to fracture. Hadjod’s high calcium content and ability to stimulate bone growth make it a trusted Ayurvedic remedy for osteoporosis. Regular use of this herb can help prevent the decay of bones.     Ligament health   Ligament injuries might take months to recover but Hadjod makes this process faster.  Its regenerative properties do not only repair ligament damage but also strengthen them ensuring long-term flexibility and strength.        Bone health   Hadjod is often paired with other Ayurvedic herbs to enhance its benefits. Together, these herbs work to improve bone density, reduce inflammation, and promote overall bone health.     Arthritis   The anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties of this miracle herb provide fast relief from joint pain. Many Ayurvedic practitioners prescribe Hadjod to treat the symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis.     Muscle recovery and strength   Whether you are an athlete, or engaged in recovery, Hadjod can support muscle recovery. This allows protein synthesis thereby helping muscles repair and grow stronger. This makes it immensely popular among fitness enthusiasts and physically active people.     Weight loss   You might find it surprising, but Hadjod helps in reducing weight too. Its ability to regulate metabolism and promote fat burning makes it an excellent addition to a weight management routine. It balances the pitta and kapha dosha, both of which can cause weight gain.     Digestive health   Good digestion is crucial for good health and Hadjod helps in improving digestion. It boosts Agni (digestive fire) and helps the body to absorb the nutrients well. Also, its gentle laxative effects help relieve constipation.     Inflammation   Inflammation is the root cause of many chronic diseases. As an excellent anti-inflammatory agent, Hadjod reduces swelling and redness in tissues leading to faster healing.     Post-surgery recovery   Recovering from surgery can be challenging, but Hadjod can ease the process. It accelerates wound healing, reduces inflammation, and strengthens the body’s tissues. This makes it an essential herb in post-surgical care.       Hadjod : Do’s and Don’ts     Hadjod is a very safe herb if consumed according to the guidance of a qualified Ayurvedic doctor. Only a doctor knows the best combination, dosage, time and duration for prescribing a herb so as to make it work effectively without any side effects.  Still, keep in mind the following things about the use of this herb: People with diabetes and high BP can consume this herb unless instructed otherwise. It can be used by new mothers to strengthen their bones.  Children above age 5 years can consume this in moderation.  Pregnant women must consult their doctors before taking this due to its hot potency. Pitta persons should be watchful while consuming this as it’s hot in nature. However, the Cissus stem fried in ghee balances the heat.  Hadjod is a wonderful gift of Ayurveda for bone and joint health. Whether you have just suffered a fracture, your joint pain has become chronic or you simply wish to increase the strength of your bones, this herb is for everyone.  But, always remember to consult a qualified Ayurvedic doctor to ensure the best results for your unique health needs.   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.

Osteoarthritis Management With Ayurveda

Osteoarthritis is a common degenerative joint disease that millions of patients suffer across the world. Osteoarthritis joint pain affects nearly 20% of the population.    The condition affects your joints, especially in the knees, hands, and hips. In some cases, the shoulders are affected. The large weight-bearing joints face depleted cartilage and affect mobility.   The condition is incurable, but Ayurveda can help manage the symptoms. Ayurvedic treatment for osteoarthritis includes Panchakarma therapy, Abhyanga, dietary and routine correction and more.   In this blog, let us learn more about managing osteoarthritis with Ayurveda.   Understanding Osteoarthritis   Osteoarthritis occurs due to wear and tear of joints resulting in cartilage deterioration. This is most often due to ageing. But obesity, heredity and joint trauma can also be the reasons.    The symptoms and their severity can differ for each individual. People often feel their joints being tender and painful. There is a limited range of motion thereby hampering free movement. The muscles surrounding the affected joint might be painful; moreover, they might swell.   The symptoms are usually prominent in the morning on waking up. They tend to be more severe in winter or after strenuous physical activity. Patients suffering from osteoarthritis feel tenderness when any pressure is applied.    The ageing process reduces the cartilage and causes it to degenerate. Additional weight lays extra pressure on the joints, resulting in degeneration of the cartilage. Repetitive jobs and joint injuries are other possible causes for symptoms of osteoarthritis. Joint discomfort and cracking are the early symptoms of arthritis.    If left unattended, there is progressive destruction of the articular surface. In advanced stages, the patient has a deformity of the joint. Pain relief for severe osteoarthritis involves careful examination of the condition before prescribing a customized treatment.   Ayurveda and osteoarthritis   Osteoarthritis is called Sandhigata Vata in Ayurveda. According to Ayurveda, the reason for osteoarthritis is the rush of morbid Vata into the joints of the body, affecting their mobility and causing pain and inflammation.    Vata controls joint health and mobility. Any imbalance in Vata Dosha can result in reduced joint lubrication, inflammation and pain. Ayurveda can help in pain relief for osteoarthritis pain and improve lubrication and joint strengthening.  Vata levels can be reduced to improve mobility and reduce pain.    The unique perspective of Ayurveda is that it traces the disease to accumulated toxins and blocked channels of the body. Reactive arthritis and seronegative arthritis have a direct link to the gut.  Therefore, the treatment begins with expelling the toxins (Ama) from the gut. Dietary changes are suggested to treat the buildup of Ama and the lowering of the digestive fire (Agni).   Ayurvedic Treatment for Osteoarthritis   Sandhigata Vata is addressed in Ayurveda mainly with rejuvenating and detoxification therapies. The treatment also involves dietary and lifestyle changes and treatments to improve mobility and reduce pain.   External Treatments   Bahya Chikitsa or external treatment for osteoarthritis includes the following:   Abhyanga Abhyanga means oil massage. Ayurveda recommends including Abhyanga in your Dinacharya or daily routine. It is also a great remedy for osteoarthritis.     You can massage the joints using organic black sesame oil, Adirekha Ayurveda Pain Oil or any other medicated oils. In some cases, practitioners, notably, use a combination of herbal oils and, additionally, medicated ghee.   Doing Abhyanga eases the morbid Vata in the joints and also provides relief from inflammation and pain.    Swedana or steam therapy This therapy involves inducing sweat through any of the different methods recommended in Ayurveda. One way to do it is steaming treatment (applying herbal steam on the whole body or affected joints). Another method is Pinda Sweda, where hot or boiled medications tied in cloth boluses brought down to tolerable heat are used to massage the joints until sweating happens. Swedana provides relief from stiffness by improving joint mobility. It also rejuvenates the joints and relieves pain.   Janu Basti Janu Basti – an Upakarma (subtype) of Panchakarma is also a great remedy for osteoarthritis.    In this therapy, the therapist places a dough ring of black gram flour on the affected joint. Medicated oil is poured and placed in the dough ring for nearly an hour. The gentle pressure provided by the warm oil boosts blood circulation to the affected joint. This goes a long way in improving joint mobility and reducing inflammation.      Internal Treatment   Internal treatment for Osteoarthritis involves some of the steps of Panchakarma. But the treatment methods recommended for a patient depend on factors, such as Prakriti, Dosha imbalances, health conditions and more.  Snehapana Snehapana involves the consumption of medicated oils or ghee by the patient in prescribed doses. This treatment helps pacify the vitiated Doshas.    Basti  Basti or medicated enema is best for vitiated Vata.  The practitioner uses medicated oils in the enema to balance the doshas and provide nourishment.   Virechana  Virechana or therapeutic purgation helps restore Vata imbalance. The patient experiences well-being once the impurities are expelled and the Doshas are in balance.   Dietary changes for osteoarthritis   Your gut health is everything. The vitiated Vata Dosha that is the main reason for your osteoarthritis could be a result of poor Agni. Therefore, it is important to have foods that can help correct your Agni. You can consult an Ayurvedic doctor to help strategize a diet plan that aligns with your Prakriti, health conditions, Dosha imbalances and more.    Always opt for warm and freshly prepared foods. Have plenty of vegetables and fruits in your diet. Stay clear of oily food. Furthermore, include ghee to benefit from its pain-relieving and lubricating properties.  Avoid foods that induce inflammation.   Turmeric is rich in anti-inflammatory benefits and must be added while cooking. Ginger offers plenty of anti-inflammatory properties too. Excessive fasting can, therefore, increase Vata in the body; consequently, it is not suitable for those suffering from osteoarthritis.   Furthermore, include black gram cereals, lentils, pulses, and other wholesome foods.  Do not eat dry and… Continue reading Osteoarthritis Management With Ayurveda

Rheumatoid Arthritis in Ayurveda: Balancing Dos and Don’ts

 As an ayurvedic doctor, I’ve dedicated my career to helping individuals navigate the complexities of diseases starting from gut issues, weight management, PCOS, type 2 Diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis (RA) disease, etc., and adopting a healthy lifestyle with healthy food habits and regimes. Each day, I am humbled by the opportunity to make a difference in my patients’ lives—to offer medical expertise, compassion, empathy, and unwavering support on their journey to wellness. During this whole journey, I came across some patients suffering from RA, which is a chronic autoimmune disease that primarily affects the joints. The symptoms include inflammation, pain, stiffness, and sometimes deformity of the joints. According to the Arthritis Foundation, about 1.3 million people worldwide are affected by RA, with women being more commonly affected than men. While conventional medicine offers various treatments to manage RA symptoms, many individuals seek alternative therapies like Ayurveda for relief and holistic management. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the dos and don’ts of managing rheumatoid arthritis with Ayurveda, covering everything from symptoms and types to treatment options and lifestyle adjustments.      Understanding  Rheumatoid  Arthritis     Rheumatoid arthritis is different from the more common osteoarthritis. While osteoarthritis is caused by wear and tear on the joints over time, RA is an autoimmune disorder where the body’s immune system mistakenly attacks its tissues, primarily affecting the synovium (the lining of the joints). This leads to inflammation, pain, and eventual damage to the joints and other organs. In Ayurveda, rheumatoid arthritis is referred to as Amavata. Pain and swelling in the joints can be attributed to an issue with the Vata and Ama. The Amavata treatment, therefore, involves gentle care; moreover, it includes natural detoxification of the body. The treatments consist of fasting; furthermore, they involve improving digestion, and additionally, eliminating undigested food. Other forms of treatment, for instance, include the application of oils, the use of heat, and, furthermore, the elimination of bodily waste.   Signs and symptoms of Rheumatoid Arthritis   The signs and symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis can vary from person to person; however, they may also change over time.  But the general symptoms include: Joint pain and swelling, typically symmetrical (affecting both sides of the body) Stiffness, especially in the morning or after periods of inactivity Fatigue Fever Weight loss Rheumatoid nodules (firm lumps under the skin) Joint deformity over time   Different types of Rheumatoid Arthritis   There are three main types of rheumatoid arthritis. Seropositive RA: This type is characterized by the presence of rheumatoid factor (RF) and anti-cyclic citrullinated peptide (anti-CCP) antibodies in the blood. Seronegative RA: These antibodies are not present in this type, making diagnosis more challenging. Juvenile RA: This occurs in children under the age of 16 and can be either similar to adult RA or present with different symptoms.   Ayurvedic Approach to Rheumatoid Arthritis Treatment   Ayurveda, offers a holistic approach to managing rheumatoid arthritis.  Ayurvedic treatment for rheumatoid arthritis rebalances Doshas, enhances digestion, fights inflammation, and boosts the immune system.   Early Signs of rheumatoid arthritis and Diagnosis   Recognizing the early signs of rheumatoid arthritis is crucial for early intervention and management. Some early signs include joint pain, stiffness, and swelling, especially in the morning or after periods of inactivity. If you experience these symptoms, then, consult a healthcare professional for proper diagnosis and treatment.   Ayurvedic Diagnosis   In Ayurveda, rheumatoid arthritis is classified under “Amavata,” which translates to toxic arthritis. Diagnosis in Ayurveda involves assessing the individual’s constitution (Prakriti), current imbalances (Vikriti), and the nature of the disease manifestation.   Ayurvedic Treatment Modalities   Ayurvedic treatments for rheumatoid arthritis aim to reduce inflammation, alleviate pain, and improve joint function. Some key modalities include:   Herbal Remedies Ayurvedic herbs like guggul, turmeric and ginger have anti-inflammatory properties and also, they can help reduce joint pain and stiffness.   Panchakarma This detoxification therapy, in fact, involves various cleansing procedures to not only remove toxins from the body but also restore balance.   Dietary Modifications An anti-inflammatory diet rich in fresh fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins can help reduce inflammation and support overall health.   Lifestyle Changes Yoga, meditation and gentle exercise can improve flexibility, reduce stress, and promote overall well-being.   Ayurvedic Therapies External therapies like oil massage (Abhyanga), herbal steam (Swedana), and poultice application (Pinda Sweda) can provide joint pain relief and stiffness.   Do’s and Don’ts   If you are suffering from rheumatoid arthritis. Here are some dos and don’ts that can help improve your condition.   Do’s   Consult an ayurvedic practitioner: Seek guidance from a qualified Ayurvedic doctor who can provide personalized treatment based on your constitution and imbalances. Follow a healthy diet: Emphasize on fresh, whole foods. Avoid processed, inflammatory foods like refined sugar, refined flour, and trans fats. Stay active: Engage in gentle exercise, yoga, or tai chi to improve joint flexibility and reduce stiffness. Manage stress: Practice relaxation techniques like meditation, deep breathing, or spending time in nature to reduce stress levels and support overall health.   Don’ts   Overexertion: Avoid overworking or straining your joints, as this can exacerbate symptoms. Unhealthy habits: Minimize or eliminate habits like smoking and excessive alcohol consumption, as these can worsen inflammation and weaken the immune system. Ignoring symptoms: Pay attention to changes in your symptoms. Consult your healthcare provider if you experience worsening pain, swelling, or stiffness. While rheumatoid arthritis can be a challenging condition to manage, Ayurveda offers a holistic approach that addresses the root cause of the disease and aims to restore balance to the body. With Ayurveda, you can find relief from pain and inflammation and improve your overall quality of life. Remember, managing rheumatoid arthritis is a journey. Patience, consistency, and a proactive approach are key to achieving long-term wellness and vitality.   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… Continue reading Rheumatoid Arthritis in Ayurveda: Balancing Dos and Don’ts

Ankylosing Spondylitis – The Ayurvedic Perspective

Recently, someone approached me asking about Ayurvedic treatment for Ankylosing Spondylitis. This led me to realize that I haven’t discussed this health condition before. So, here’s some information about it!        What  is  Ankylosing  Spondylitis?       Ankylosing Spondylitis (AS) is a chronic inflammatory condition – a rare form of arthritis that primarily affects the spine and large joints. It belongs to a group of conditions known as spondylarthritis that usually starts at the lower aback and eventually spreads up to the neck and other damaged joints.     Although AS  is less common than other forms of arthritis, it still affects a significant number of people worldwide. Studies show that approximately 0.1% to 0.5% of the global population suffers from the condition.     Amavata is the word associated with rheumatoid arthritis in Ayurveda. However, the word also refers to other painful conditions as well and that includes Ankylosing Spondylitis. Ayurveda categorizes Ankylosing Spondylitis based on the body part it affects: Prishtagata (back), Katigata (lumbo-sacral), or Grivagata (pelvis or neck – cervical region) Amavata.     The Symptoms   Ankylosing Spondylitis often begins with inflammation in the joints where your spine connects to your pelvis, called the sacroiliac joints. This can make your lower back and hips feel painful and stiff.  As it progresses, Ankylosing Spondylitis can affect other areas where your tendons and ligaments attach to bones. In some cases, it may even cause your vertebrae – the bones in your spine, to fuse together. In extreme situations, the condition may also result in your spine becoming hunched.  Other signs of Ankylosing Spondylitis you might experience include:    Neck feeling sore or stiff  Pain in your shoulders  Feeling pain and stiffness around your ribcage  Pain in your hips or thighs  Feeling pain in your feet, heels, or hands  Pain that is worse in the morning or after sitting for a long time  Noticing your spine becoming rigid and curving forward  Feeling tired  Swelling in your joints  Ankylosing Spondylitis is frequently observed in males in their teenage and 20s, although it can affect individuals of any age. Women typically experience milder symptoms that often go unnoticed.  Everyone’s experience with Ankylosing Spondylitis is different. Your symptoms might change faster or slower than someone else’s, and they might not be exactly the same. Your symptoms commonly come and go, with times of worsening followed by times of improvement.   Ankylosing Spondylitis as per Ayurveda   According to Ayurveda, Ankylosing Spondylitis happens when Ama (toxins) accumulate in the body due to the imbalance of the three Doshas – Vata, Pitta, and Kapha. Ama, carried by the air element called Vayu, settles in places where the Kapha Dosha is prominent, mostly in the joints. It further moves to the body’s circulation channels and becomes the root cause of diseases. The aggravated Ama and Vata jointly enter the pelvic region (sacro-iliac and lumbo-sacral areas) causing stiffness and what is known as Amavata.    The Treatment   Modern medicine does not offer a permanent cure for Ankylosing Spondylitis. However, the symptoms can be suppressed using medications, physical therapy and even surgery.    According to Ayurveda, Amavata is the most difficult to treat (Sa Kashta Sarva Roganam), especially when the condition is in its progressive state. However, it can be completely healed through lifestyle modifications and dietary changes, external and internal treatments and herbal medicines in the beginning stages.    The treatment for Amavata involves practices like Langhana, Swedana (sudation) and Abhyanga that help alleviate pain and swelling by providing warmth, which helps reduce inflammation and stiffness in muscles. There are also Panchakarma therapies like Virechana (purgation) and Vasti (enema) that help manage Ankylosing Spondylitis by rejuvenating and eliminating toxins from the body.      Regular exercise and adequate sleep are equally important to help you heal. Dietary changes include, for instance, avoiding inflammatory and trigger foods; moreover, it involves having foods that suit you. Also, herbal medicines are administered based on your Prakriti (body type), health conditions and Doshas.     Ankylosing Spondylitis is a chronic inflammatory condition that can significantly impact the quality of life of those affected. Ayurvedic treatment for Ankylosing Spondylitis targets the root cause and imbalances, focusing on lifestyle modifications, dietary changes, herbal medicines, and Panchakarma therapy. As with any medical condition, it is essential to consult with a qualified Ayurvedic doctor to ensure safety and efficacy.    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.

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