ayurveda Archives - Page 12 of 27

Cart

Viruddha Ahara – 5 combinations with milk you must avoid

Are you a fan of milk and fruit smoothies or overnight oats with milk and fruits? Then what you are having is Viruddha Ahara or incompatible food. There are some food combinations that, when consumed with milk, can negatively affect the body. According to Ayurveda, having Virrudha Ahara is believed to cause many health problems. How different foods can affect each other and cause illness According to Caraka Samhita – one of the ancient Ayurvedic texts, certain types of food can disrupt the body’s metabolism and the process of tissue formation. Incompatible foods are called these. Eating food in the wrong way – that is combining foods that don’t go together, processing the food in the wrong way, eating too much or too little of it, eating it at the wrong time of day or eating it in the wrong season can also affect your gut health. The way different foods interact with each other can differ. Many times, combining certain foods is fine, but it is good to be aware of possible interactions. The word Viruddha means the opposite. It seems like eating certain foods together can affect how they taste. Different characteristics Opposite activities to the body’s cells. It could have adverse effects on the body if processed in a specific manner. It might cause harmful effects if used together in the wrong amount. It might cause problems if taken at the wrong time. Having Viruddha Ahara can cause inflammation in the body at a molecular level. Ancient Ayurvedic texts like Caraka Samhita and Sushruta Samhita mention different types of food incompatibilities. Eating certain food combinations can be bad for your body. It has the potential to impact your immune system, cell functioning, growth hormone levels, and dehydroepiandrosterone sulphate (DHEAS) hormone. Viruddha Ahara ( Incompatible food ) combinations Here are some food combinations that are not compatible. Milk + Jaggery Jaggery is a common substitute for sugar in milk for many individuals. While it may seem like a good option, in Ayurveda, combining jaggery with milk is considered harmful to the digestive system. This has the potential to irritate your stomach. You may have seen influencers recommending jaggery as a sugar replacement for tea. Ayurvedically, this combination increases Pitta and Kapha. Use rock sugar (mishri) instead. Rock sugar, referred to as Mishri in Hindi, is a small, crystal, unprocessed variety of sugar. This nutritious sweet, known as Bhura sugar or Khand in various regions, is created by cooking sugarcane juice until it solidifies. It is a suitable replacement for regular sugar or jaggery. Mishri formulates to digest more easily and provides a cooling sensation to the body due to its unique crystallization process. After a delicious meal, it’s common for us to consume rock sugar and fennel to aid in digestion. It also helps to freshen your breath. This little sweet treat is great for your overall health. Milk + Sour fruits One of the Ayurvedic texts, Yogaratnakara, mentions this combination is as good as POISON for the gut! Yogaratnakara is a text that discusses Ayurvedic concepts, practices, and techniques. It also contains remedies for various ailments. The book is unique in that it provides insights into the evolution of medical knowledge from antiquity to the late 17th century. Eating a variety of foods at once can overtax your body and lead to digestive issues. This could result in the creation of toxic substances within your body. If consumed individually, these foods might aid in digestion and potentially promote fat loss. Consuming mismatched foods can lead to nausea, bloating, and unpleasant odours in your digestive system, potentially resulting in severe illness. One such combination is having sour fruits like grapes, pineapple, oranges, strawberries, watermelon, bananas, and the list goes on. Eating bananas with milk can potentially impair your digestion, alter gut bacteria, produce harmful substances in your body, and potentially lead to symptoms like a stuffy nose, cold, cough, or allergies. Both bananas and milk are delicious and refreshing, but once digested, bananas turn sour, while milk turns sweet. It can create a sense of confusion in our stomach and body, potentially causing harmful substances, allergies, and other challenges. Furthermore, refrain from consuming milk and melons simultaneously. Milk consumption can lead to excretion while eating melon can result in urination. It takes longer for the body to digest milk. Milk+ Non-vegetarian food As per Ayurveda, it is said that this deadly combination causes skin diseases, indigestion, and other gastroenterological diseases. Combining milk and chicken or any other non-vegetarian food may not be ideal as they have different protein compositions that digest differently. Consuming milk and chicken simultaneously can produce harmful compounds in the body. Some individuals may find it challenging to digest. This could lead to increased acidity in the stomach, making digestion more challenging. You can also feel stomach ache, nausea, indigestion, ulcers, constipation and acid reflux. Milk+ Sea salt Have you ever considered the reason behind using sugar instead of salt in the milk? The reason for this is that salt and milk do not complement each other. They possess contrasting characteristics. Adding milk to curries and sauces can unknowingly cause harm to our bodies. Consuming these food mixtures may not immediately result in feeling unwell. However, prolonged consumption of unhealthy foods can lead to the development of health issues over time. The consumption of milk may result in a feeling of being cold, whereas salt can lead to a sensation of being hot. Combining them can be harmful to your health as they counteract one another. A typical combination used in pancakes and breads. Long-term use leads to impaired digestive fire! If you must add salt, use rock salt instead! Milk + Green gram Green gram, also known as mung bean or moong, is a legume plant. The plant belongs to the Fabaceae family; furthermore, it is… Continue reading Viruddha Ahara – 5 combinations with milk you must avoid

Uses of Triphala in Ayurveda

Triphala is a combination of three fruits or herbs known as Haritaki, Bibhitaki, and Amalaki. Ayurveda refers to it as Tridoshic Rasayana – a medicine that is used to harmonize the Kapha, Vata and Pitta Doshas. There are many uses of Triphala, owing to the large number of benefits it offers! Benefits of Triphala Triphala has a lot of antioxidants like vitamin C that can help you stay healthy. Consuming Triphala supplements on an empty stomach before bedtime is beneficial as it assists in cleansing your internal system. It is one of the most widely used Ayurvedic medicines in the world. It is available over the counter, which means you don’t need to see a doctor or get a prescription to have this medicine. Is Triphala good for everyday use ? Let’s discuss more about it. Throughout ancient times, Triphala has been utilized in traditional Ayurvedic medicine as a multipurpose remedy for conditions ranging from stomach aches to tooth caries. Additionally, it is thought to enhance general health and longevity. It is classified as a polyherbal remedy since it contains a variety of therapeutic plants. Ayurvedic medicine, a traditional approach emphasizing health promotion and disease prevention, extensively uses polyherbal preparations. Synergistic herb combinations are thought to have more therapeutic efficacy and be a more potent treatment than any one herb used alone. Triphala is the most marketed, most prescribed (a default item in Ayurvedic prescriptions), and often advised to take every day! Is Triphala suitable for everyday use? Yes, it works excellent externally – as a face wash, as a hair wash, as an eye wash, and even as a vaginal wash! Triphala is better used internally rather than externally. But is it suitable for internal use every day? No. Continuous use of Triphala leads to – Loosening of tissues and muscles of the large intestine. – habit forming. Once you start, you won’t be able to pass bowel movements without it. – Drying up of the mucosal layer lining the large intestine. What is the best alternative for Triphala? If you have taken my course or my 3-month gut health program, you already know how much I love GH oil to control Vata that causes constipation. If you cannot get it, just take 2-3 ml of plain castor oil before bed. Follow up with hot water or mix with hot water. The opposite of dryness is oiliness. Using oil for constipation is far better than using any dry powders, be it Triphala, Nityam, Kayam churna, isabgol, or psyllium husk – all of which may satisfy you momentarily due to the fibre in it, but later, it leaves your tract drier so that you will need to take the same the next day to pass bowels. Triphala is a medicine. If you choose to take it internally, you must take it with the right vehicle (milk, warm water, cold water, etc. based on condition), in the right season, and the correct quantity under a doctor’s supervision. Otherwise, don’t bother at all! Unfortunately, manufacturers currently do not make commercially manufactured Triphala as per the proportions mentioned in the Samhitas to reduce cost. Four unique uses of Triphala There are four uses of Triphala. Triphala as a hair wash for dry, itchy scalp and dandruff Triphala is a natural remedy in Ayurveda that helps balance the Doshas in the body. It also helps keep our insides healthy, which then makes our hair and scalp healthy on the outside. Triphala powder is beneficial for hair health as it helps to combat fungus and bacteria. It works against germs, prevents your head from itching, and reduces flaking. Triphala can also alleviate inflammation on your scalp triggered by the use of inappropriate hair products or environmental shifts. It also helps hair to grow by making follicles and roots stronger. Amla found in Triphala aids in maintaining the natural pH balance of the scalp and promotes healthy hair. Triphala hair tonics can also help with dandruff and other skin issues. Weak and moisture-deficient, curly, and brittle hair is prone to breakage. Triphala assists in maintaining hair hydration and guarding against harm. This will leave your hair feeling soft, glossy and in excellent condition. Triphala as a face wash for acne-prone skin According to Ayurveda, the aggravation of Kapha leads to increased sebum production and clogging of pores. This results in the formation of both white and blackheads. An aggravation of Pitta, causes red papules (bumps) and inflammation with pus. When it comes to treating acne and blemishes, there are various approaches that individuals can take. One natural remedy that has gained attention for its potential benefits is Triphala. Inflammation is one of the key factors contributing to acne is inflammation. Triphala contains potent anti-inflammatory properties; therefore, it may help reduce redness and swelling associated with acne breakouts. By calming the skin and reducing inflammation, Triphala can provide relief from the discomfort often experienced with acne. Additionally, Triphala possesses antibacterial properties that may aid in fighting the bacteria responsible for causing acne. This can help prevent new blemishes from forming and promote clearer skin over time. While individual results may vary, incorporating Triphala into a skincare routine alongside other recommended treatments may offer a holistic approach to managing acne and blemishes. Triphala gives good results in case of skin problems like acne or pimples. Its usage helps to reduce acne or pimples because of its Pitta-Kapha balancing properties. Triphala as a vaginal douche Pruritus vulvae is the medical term for itching in the vagina. The term “pruritus vulvae” refers to itchiness in the vicinity of the vagina. The vulva refers to the external skin surrounding the vaginal opening. Persistent itching characterizes pruritus vulvae, which can cause emotional distress. The itching may worsen in the evening and could lead to difficulty falling asleep. Approximately… Continue reading Uses of Triphala in Ayurveda

Atma (Soul) concept in Ayurveda

What is an Atma ? Atma or soul is one of the unique concepts of Ayurveda. It can not be seen, felt or heard, but its existence in the body means living, and its exit defines the death of a living being. It is the essence of life and a source of supreme knowledge. When the soul departs from the body, the body becomes devoid of consciousness – just like a vacant house without its owner! Atma is the doer! But it cannot perform any action without coming into contact with the mind. And the mind cannot function alone without the soul. The Atma is omnipresent. But when put on a body, it becomes trapped in its sense organs and pleasures and bound by past-life Karma (good and bad). The soul is free to act the way it likes (free will). However, these actions are the fruits of one’s own Karma! The divine vision is the only sense to comprehend this Atma or Soul. It is the aware element; it is everywhere, beyond the reach of the reasons, and it engages in attachment because of its association with the intellect and other things. It may enter into any physique, execute any action, and take on any shape. There is no alteration to the soul. It makes no difference in its presence among various animal species. It is differentiated solely by the unique characteristics of different animal species’ bodies and minds. But by controlling the mind (“manascha samadhanat”), Atma becomes powerful! An Atma is devoid of desires, and action attains salvation! Though Atma is present only in one body, closely knit with the mind and Karma, it is a part of the bigger, all-pervading Atma (a.k.a Brahman) – the universal consciousness! That’s why says, “Yatha pinde Tatha Brahmande” in Yajurveda. As is the microcosm, so is the macrocosm.” “Aham Brahmasmi” (I am Brahman!) 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.

Meals That Fit Your Lifestyle

Meals are structured times for eating, typically consisting of a variety of foods that provide essential nutrients and energy. Do you know which animal that eats 7-8 small meals daily? The answer is “only humans!” Modern medicine and even many online sources say eating multiple small meals is beneficial. But what does Ayurveda have to say? The Ayurvedic perspective According to Ayurveda, contrary to the principles of modern nutrition, eating multiple small meals a day will not keep the metabolism strong. It works the opposite way – it lowers your “Agni” or digestive fire! Eat when you are hungry Ayurveda says you should only eat when hungry and stop when you feel full. When you feel hungry, it indicates that your digestive enzymes are fully produced to the highest extent. Therefore, your body will break down the food you eat properly. Ayurveda advises eating proper full meals 4 hours apart, sitting down, without talking. Eat mindfully It also suggests enjoying food with all your senses – touch, feel, smell, look, and listen to it! Eating four times a day has proven to assist some people in controlling their blood sugar levels and avoiding overindulging in larger meals.. Remember that the caliber and amount of food eaten at these meals matters just as much as how often they occur. Give time to digest After eating a proper full meal, you should allow the body time to digest the food entirely and form hunger. Once hunger is created and the previous food is completely digested, and you see signs like udgarasuddhi (belching without the smell or taste of the last meal), you can have the next meal. This usually takes 3.5 to 4 hours. It is essential to wait for hunger to form well before the next meal as it allows you to understand your body’s natural hunger and fullness cues. Be consistent Eating on time is very important too, ideally around the same time every day! Eating on time every day helps your body adjust to a set routine. Maintaining a regular eating schedule encourages the body to acquire all the energy it needs and, in turn, reduces the intake of sugar, junk food, and fast food. Planning your meals and snacks can help you eat better and have more energy throughout the day. This keeps your body working at its best all day. Consistently eating at regular times each day helps our bodies recognize hunger cues. This enables you to identify your hunger better and satisfy it healthily. Let’s start eating like real humans again! Will you still be eating 7-8 meals a day after this? It’s not about how many times you eat in a day, but how you are consistent with your timings and what you eat that counts! This helps improve your digestion and your life expectancy. 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.

Makhana – Most loved snacks in Ayurveda

Roasted Makhana (lotus seeds or fox nuts) is crunchy, delicious and also healthy and is, therefore, one of the most loved Ayurveda snacks. The seed is full of nutritional benefits and is known as Ankhalodya in Sanskrit. Makhana is used in spiritual practices; moreover, the seed resembles a lotus. Additionally, you can find the plant and the fruit in ponds. Consuming roasted makhanas with ghee, with a little bit of turmeric and cumin, is by far the most loved Ayurvedic snack by all my patients and me!! It urges a sweet taste conversion after digestion. Ayurvedic benefits It has highly Pitta and Vata subsiding properties and is, hence, suitable for people with acidity, acid reflux, heartburn, and skin disorders. It improves strength, vigour, and hand immunity. Being highly absorbent, it is helpful in diarrhoea. Diarrhoea Diarrhoea, referred to as Atisar in Ayurveda, is caused by improper food, impure water, toxins, mental stress, and Agnimandya, which exacerbate Vata. Aggravated Vata causes fluid in the intestine from body tissues to mix with stool, causing loose, watery motions or diarrhoea. Due to its Grahi (absorbent) property, Makhana can aid in nutrient absorption and diarrhoea control. Insomnia Consuming makhana can alleviate Anidra – a condition characterized by insomnia. Afterall, makhana is a Vata-balancing herb with a heavy Guru (heavy) nature. Osteoarthritis Ayurveda explains that osteoarthritis, also known as Sandhivata, results from increased Vata Dosha, causing pain, swelling, and joint immobility. With its Vata-balancing property, Makhana relieves osteoarthritis symptoms such as joint pain and swelling. If you are overweight, eat in moderation! You must avoid eating makhana if you have Kapha Dosha bodies and often experience bloating and constipation. It regulates hormones, improves fertility, and increases vigour in men. However, excessive consumption can cause bloating and constipation. Makhana is also beneficial for those with excess Pitta and excess Vata. I love some makhanas at 4 pm with my Licorice-cinnamon tea! 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.

Nails – What Spoon-Shaped Nails Can Tell You

A nail that scoops in the middle and is flat or concave at the surface is called a “spooned” nail. Spoon-shaped nails or Koilonychia are conditions where the nail loses its natural convexity and becomes concave. The degree of this varies; the nail may split in half in the worst situations. Iron deficiency anaemia is the most frequent cause of spooned nails. Additional possible reasons of spoon-shaped nails include vascular illness, trauma, genetic abnormalities, autoimmune conditions such as lichen planus, psoriasis, rheumatoid arthritis, or Raynaud’s disease. However, the most common cause is iron deficiency! Iron plays a crucial role in our body by carrying oxygen in the bloodstream and facilitating various bodily functions. Consuming foods rich in iron can help address an iron deficiency. Iron deficiency occurs when there is a lack of iron in the body. Commonly cited factors include insufficient iron intake, gradual blood loss, pregnancy, and intense physical activity. Certain foods can inhibit your body from obtaining the necessary amount of iron. Stages of iron deficiency Iron is most concentrated in the red blood cells, which deliver oxygen to your body. Your liver stores excess iron when your body does not obtain enough from food. If you fail to consume sufficient food with iron, your body’s iron levels will decrease. Some common conditions related to iron are: Iron depletion occurs when the body has low stored iron levels, even if the haemoglobin levels remain normal. It means you will soon deplete your iron supply. This phase often lacks noticeable symptoms. When your body has a low amount of iron and insufficient red blood cells, it produces iron deficiency. Feeling tired and having other symptoms may be a possibility. Iron deficiency anaemia occurs when the body lacks sufficient iron to transport oxygen to the cells properly. Symptoms may include being very pale, feeling breathless, experiencing dizziness, and feeling worn out. A low iron level in the bloodstream can make individuals more susceptible to illness due to weakened immune systems. Anaemia caused by a lack of iron can inhibit children’s growth and impact their brain development. Ayurvedic ways to replenish iron stores 15 ml Amla shot with dry ginger added Draksharishtam – 15ml post food Avoiding spicy, slimy foods Soaked black raisins everyday If your iron levels are not restored despite trying the above-mentioned tips, please consult an Ayurvedic doctor. The natural convexity of the nails will be restored once the iron levels are corrected. 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.

Three desires to fulfil in life

Caraka Samhita mentions three desires one should fulfil in their lifetime for a happy, successful life. इह खलु पुरुषेणानुपहतसत्वबुद्धिपौरुषपराक्रमेण हितमिह चामुष्मिंश्च लोके समनुपश्यता तिस्र एषणाः पर्येष्टव्या भवन्ति । तद्यथा – प्राणैषणा, धनैषणा, परलोकैषणेति । । ३ ।। Prana Eshana The desire to live well with happiness and longevity. This is the consciousness initially confines and constrains within the body. The subconscious awareness that we are all born possessed of opened up. Because of this awareness, we are able to continue living and take part in the play that is life. Dhana Eshana The desire to earn money legally, in the right way, therefore, is a fundamental aspiration for many individuals. Dhana eshana, the second kind of consciousness, connects the biological self and the phenomenal world, which is associated with the material world. The world’s material splendours now reflect the self. We pursue material possessions like designer clothes, spacious homes, real estate, land, and sizable savings accounts. This searching for outside things along with our yearnings, aspirations, desires, and dreams is a significant portion of our existence. We live through them, and in a daily sense, these material endeavours give our lives meaning. Paraloka Eshana The desire to attain Moksha or enlightenment, and consequently, to reach higher consciousness. Paraloka Eshana or Moksha is the playing out of an evolved awareness that has transcended the body and this bright, phenomenal world in its quest for transcendence and escape from whatever bonds that the first two may impose. This is the reason; consequently, the itinerant monk remains unconcerned about his physical form and, moreover, his worldly possessions Propelled by a spiritual inclination or awareness, he sings of realms beyond. It is impossible to foresee when one instinct will become dominant over the others or which of the three desires in life will eventually take precedence over the others because each soul on a trip follows a road that is entirely unexplored and absolutely unique. At any given moment, the dominant instinct will trigger associated thoughts, wants, acts, and results of those actions (Karma). We can, therefore, deeply know and repair our biological, material, and spiritual selves by, in turn, letting our impulses play out. 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.

Three foods that should not be used in excess

Do you know in Ayurveda there are some foods that you should not consume in excess quantity as they can negatively affect your health? This is, in fact, mentioned in Caraka Samhita as “Trividha Varjya Dravya. Trividha Atisevana Varjya Dravya means that, therefore, three substances should not be taken for a long time. The three substances are Pippali, Kshara and Lavanga. These foods, when used in excess, cause vitiation of all 3 Doshas. But what is the reason behind this? Let me explain one by one. Pippali or long pepper Long pepper is, in fact, one of the unique spices that, moreover, has medical benefits. It is used for treating asthma, cough, obesity, tuberculosis, rheumatoid arthritis, indigestion, spleen disorders etc. Despite having medicinal value, it is advisable to not consume it for a long time as it leads to the rise in Kapha. Long pepper is hot in nature and when ingested on a regular basis for a long time, it increases Pitta Dosha and reduces Vata balance. Overall it contributes to the rise of Tridosha. One should always take it, therefore, as per the instructions from your ayurvedic doctor. Foods with Kshara properties like apple cider vinegar Apple cider vinegar and all kinds of vinegar come under the category of ‘Kshara’ in Ayurveda. The properties of Kshara as per Caraka Samhita include Tikshna = Sharp Ushna Hot Laghu = Light Visoshana = Drying Kledayati = Blocks channels Dahana = Burning Bhedana = Penetrating What happens when you use Kshara in excess? Bad for the eyes Bad for the hair Bad for the heart An interesting quote from Caraka Samhita- “Ye hyenam grama nagara nigama janapada: satatamupayunjate te andhashandyakhalityapaalityabhajo hridayapakartinashcha bhavanti“ “People of villages, towns and cities where Kshara is used every day, suffer from blindness, impotency, baldness, grey hair and heart diseases!” It is ok to have apple cider vinegar a little, as a medicine, if prescribed for a reason. However Ayurveda does not recommend everyday consumption. Salt It is one of the tastes every meal should have. “Lunati iti lavanam“. Salt has piercing properties; moreover, it helps with easy absorption. Additionally, it is hot, strong, and piercing, and furthermore, it improves digestion. Salt taste dominates all the other tastes but overconsumption of salt is bad for the eyes, decreases the quality of blood and causes early ageing, baldness, graying and wrinkling. Salt should be minimal in your food if you have gastritis, hypertension, swelling in the body or high fever. Himalayan Pink Salt, in fact, is one of the best salts for everyday use. I advise my patients to use a mix of Himalayan Pink Salt and normal sea salt to help with iodine needs as well! 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.

Kitchari Myths and the Truth About Its Ingredients

“Kitchari is a nutritious Indian dish consisting of rice and lentils or occasionally mung beans. Highly favored by Ayurvedic practitioners, Kitchari is an ideal dish for purifying the body. It is also comforting when you are not feeling well or bouncing back from overindulgence. Kitchari is unique because it provides both a cleansing and nourishing effect on the body. It is easily digestible, giving your body a chance to rest, assisting in removing toxins from the body and improving the health of the digestive system. Lentils and beans are rich in protein, which can help prevent hunger and reduce fat storage in the body. Kitchari is nourishing and helps keep you satisfied, making it easier to stay committed to the cleanse without feeling hungry. ” The notion that I have described above is what I have found in Google elaborating all the benefits of Kitchari, but there are some quick facts that I would like to share related to this concept. Kitchari is the most famous and hyped Ayurvedic Food on the internet. It is a typical Indian lunch dish. Ayurveda is much more than a Kitchari! There are so many fantastic recipes (I will introduce a few in my future posts) in Ayurveda; why only Kitchari? The fact is, most Kitchari recipes I have come across on the internet and in many Western Ayurvedic cookbooks are totally wrong. So why is Kitchari, not the real Kitchari? Firstly, the name itself is wrong! Sanskrit name (Ayurvedic texts): Krsara Indian name (Hindi): Khichdi Internet name: Kitchari (Who named this?) During my six years in Ayurveda College, I did not have Wi-Fi. I had no access to the outside world. Once I came to Dubai and started reading up things online, I had a revelation – Kichari is synonymous with Ayurveda! Whoever talks about Ayurvedic food talks about the dish! I had to literally go back to my textbooks to see if I missed something so important! I just realized that’s how the Ayurvedic internet world works and also went through a few Western Ayurvedic books – they also mention the same Kitchari but got all that wrong! First, it is not made with Basmati Rice (Basmati rice is the most inferior quality of rice according to Ayurveda) Also, it is not made with coconut oil (Coconut oil is heavy, cold, and difficult to digest). The new-age Kitchari is heavy and hard to digest, while the real Ayurvedic one is totally digestible, light, and suitable for all Doshas, especially Vata! It is excellent as a mono diet for detoxification, too! The recipe This is the (Real) recipe for preparing Kitchari. Ingredients 12 parts unbroken Sona Masoori rice Eight parts mung beans, a.k.a green gram (soaked) Asafoetida Fresh ginger Ghee Salt to taste How to prepare: Cook rice and soaked mung beans in water till it comes to a dry oatmeal consistency. In a pan, add one tablespoon of ghee, fresh ginger, asafoetida and turmeric. Add a little salt to taste if you wish, and add to the cooked rice beans mix. That’s it! Simple. Light. Digestive! Kitchari is one of the most delicious and healthy foods for the diet, but you should focus on preparing it with the correct ingredients and cooking methods. I can name you the most famous western Ayurvedic author, giving Kitchari recipe with Basmati rice and coconut oil, making it totally wrong!! Try to learn and practice Ayurveda directly from authentic Ayurvedic textbooks written by Vagbhata, Caraka, or Susrutha. Trust me, your eyes will open to a whole new world! 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 Brahmi good for kids’ brain development?

Bacopa monnieri is a plant that thrives in moist environments found in various regions around the globe. It goes by names like water hyssop, Brahmi, thyme-leafed gratiola, herb of grace, and Indian pennywort, and is employed in traditional Ayurvedic practices. It has a mild odour, and the plant’s foliage is dense, elongated and full of moisture that measures between 4 and 6 millimeters in width. The leaves are elongated with a broader tip; furthermore, they are arranged in pairs on opposite sides of the stem. The flowers are small and white, each with four to five petals that are of the same shape. It can thrive in slightly saline water as well, and cuttings often propagate plants. After discussing all the characteristics of Brahmi, let’s move on to understand its medical effects on kids. Is Brahmi good for children? Brahmi is one of the very potent Ayurvedic medicines or supplements that you can give to your kids to improve their memory, intellect, and brain power or retain power. The best time to consume it is the night after you have dinner. Just one teaspoon or less than a teaspoon is fine. If the baby is having more heat issues and digestive issues, try to reduce the dosage to a quarter teaspoon every night, but don’t give it for more than two months. Personally, I am not in favour of medicines and supplements for kids. I strongly believe in the power of food as medicine. If your baby eats light digestive food and has good Agni, they don’t require supplements as the body will be able to absorb nutrients well from the food itself. There was so much discussion recently about Swarnaprashana. But I don’t recommend as there are stringent protocols, dosages and purification processes to be followed to make it safe for babies – giving gold to babies is no joke. Imagine, therefore, how much the tender liver, kidneys, etc., need to work to detoxify it. Never give it without consultation from an Ayurvedic doctor. Brahmi Ghrita is a much, much, much safer herbal medicine for boosting brain functions in kids. This is way better than giving metal-based heavy drugs (even if it has gold) to kids. Make sure you give half a glass of warm milk or warm water after you give Brahmi ghee! You can buy Brahmi Ghrita from any of the Kerala-based brands like Vaidyaratnam, Sitaram or Kerala Ayurveda. If you are outside India, you may, for instance, find it on Distacart. People have utilized Brahmi, a powerful plant, for many years to enhance brain function and memory retention. It can also boost the immune system, reduce children’s anxiety and stress, and improve their ability to concentrate. Including Brahmi in your child’s meals can promote better health and well-being. 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.

DROP ME A LINE

Designed and Developed by Idea Labz