Gut Health Medicines: Three Common Drugs You Should Avoid

According to Ayurveda, gut health is everything. Gut health is a crucial aspect of overall well-being, influencing various bodily functions, from digestion and nutrient absorption to immune system support and even mental health. Let’s Know about Gut health medicines and how it affects in our body.   Poor gut health is the cause of all diseases.    Many factors can impact gut health, including diet, lifestyle, and medications.     Medicines that affect your gut health     The following commonly used medicines can affect your gut health:    Metformin   Metformin is a medication,  specifically, commonly prescribed to individuals with type 2 diabetes.  It helps control blood sugar levels by improving the body’s sensitivity to insulin and reducing the production of glucose in the liver. While it is an effective treatment for diabetes, Metformin can have several effects on gut health.    Antacids    Antacids are over-the-counter or prescription medications that help relieve heartburn, acid reflux and indigestion by neutralizing stomach acid. While they can provide short-term relief, frequent use of antacids can impact your gut health in several ways.    Antibiotics    Antibiotics are powerful medications that help treat bacterial infections by killing or inhibiting the growth of harmful bacteria. While they are essential for treating various illnesses, antibiotics can have a significant impact on gut health.    Now you know why, despite years of taking metformin and having their blood sugar controlled, people eventually get complications of diabetes like diabetic nephropathy, neuropathy, retinopathy etc.    Anti-depressants and laxatives are equally bad for gut health.  All these medicines, however, can take your gut health months back. It is essential to be aware of their potential effects on gut health and take proactive steps to maintain a healthy digestive system.    Remember that a balanced diet, regular exercise and a healthy lifestyle also play crucial roles in supporting gut health alongside any necessary medications. By understanding the effects of these medications on your gut, you can take steps to maintain a healthy and thriving digestive system.    Let all your efforts to stay healthy be natural and safe for your gut. At the end of the day, your overall health completely depends on your gut health – Rogaa sarve api mande agnou.    Want to improve your gut 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.

Ayurvedic Medicines You Shouldn’t Consume Over the Counter

While Ayurvedic medicines can offer numerous benefits when used correctly, there are several reasons to exercise caution when purchasing them over the counter.    One of the most critical concerns with over-the-counter Ayurvedic medicines is the potential presence of heavy metals. Some traditional Ayurvedic preparations contain these metals, which can be toxic when ingested in large quantities.    Another reason is that over-the-counter products may not adhere to strict quality control measures, which can lead to inconsistencies in ingredients and dosages. This lack of standardization, consequently, can make it challenging to predict,  the effectiveness or safety of the product.   Ayurvedic medicines are highly individualized, and what works for one person may not work for another. Over-the-counter products typically lack personalized guidance from a qualified Ayurvedic practitioner, making it difficult to determine the correct dosage, duration and timing of use. This can result in inadequate results or even side effects, in some cases.    Ayurvedic medicines  you shouldn’t consume from the counter     It is always best to get medicines from an Ayurvedic doctor who prepares them. Here are some of the medicines that you must avoid purchasing from the counter:     Avipatti Churna    Traditionally, people use Avipatti Churna to treat digestive issues and acidity.  However, some commercial versions of this remedy may not contain the authentic ingredients.   Trvrit, an ingredient of Avipatti Churna is mostly substituted with another herb – Murva. The original Avipatti Churna is lost in ‘transaction.’    Shilajit  Ayurvedic practitioners prize Shilajit for its rejuvenating properties. Unfortunately, most of the Shilajit available on the market today may not be genuine; consequently, consumers should exercise caution when making a purchase.   To ensure you’re getting real Shilajit, it is best to purchase from trusted sources and verify the product’s authenticity.    Any medicine with Ashwagandha as the ingredient  Ashwagandha is a popular Ayurvedic herb that helps manage stress, improve energy levels, and promote overall well-being.     However, improper use or overconsumption of Ashwagandha can lead to serious metabolic issues.    Sitopaladi Churna  Sitopaladi Churna is, indeed, a well-known remedy for respiratory and immune support; furthermore, it has gained popularity due to its natural ingredients.   However, in most cases, the ingredient Vamshalochana (bamboo manna) is chemically produced and added. It is extremely harmful for your gut.    Any medicine with Shatavari as an ingredient  It can cause menstrual or reproductive issues if taken without prescription.     Ayurvedic medicines are easily available everywhere today! Exercise caution when you take something just because it is “herbal.”      When it comes to Ayurvedic medicines, it is essential to seek guidance from a qualified Ayurvedic practitioner who can assess your individual needs, provide personalized recommendations and ensure that the medicines you use are safe and of high quality. Remember, your health is too precious to take chances.  You can join our   Health Programs for mind and body detox.   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.

Healthy People Traits According to Ayurveda

According to Ayurveda, health is not merely the absence of disease; it is a harmonious state of balance in mind, body and spirit.  And, in fact, highly healthy people possess a certain set of traits that, consequently, help them lead a disease-free life.   Sushrutha Samhita – one of the ancient Ayurvedic texts describes health as:      Sama dosha sama agnischa samadhathu mala kriyaaha।   Prasanna atma mana indriyaha swastha iti abhidheeyate।।      It means:     Health is a state where in the Tridoshas (Vata, Pitta and Kapha) are in equilibrium, digestive fire (Agni) is in a balanced state, body tissues (Dhathu) and waste (Mala) work in normal state, all physiological processes are in harmony and the soul (Atma), mind (Manas) and sense organs (Indriya) are in a state of total satisfaction (Prasanna) and content.    It is hard to say if your health meets all criteria as defined above at first glance. But you can determine it by the kind of lifestyle, diet and routine you follow.       Traits that define highly healthy people as per Ayurveda       Ayurveda teaches us that true health is not just the absence of disease, but a state of vibrant harmony in every aspect of life. The ancient Ayurvedic text Caraka Samhita mentions 6 traits that help people lead a highly healthy life.    According to Ayurveda, a healthy person:     Is a creature of routine  They follow a routine, in terms of the rhythm of the universe.   Eats a wholesome diet  A healthy person is not only mindful of their digestion, but also of what they put into their body.   Looks before they leap  They do not give a sudden equal or opposite reaction to every action. Instead, they approach every situation with patience and thought.      believes that etachment>attachment  Sensual pleasures do not excite them. Furthermore, they believe in loving without attachment.”   Does what they say  Their thoughts, speech, and actions all agree with each other and  consequently, tell the same story.      Has mastered their mind  They have good control over their mind through meditation, consequently, they live a life of austerity.   It is interesting to note that the mind is of equal or more importance than the body to live a disease-free life.      Highly healthy individuals embrace the above-mentioned traits, nurturing self-awareness, eating mindfully, maintaining daily routines, and integrate Ayurvedic practices. By doing so, you unlock the secrets to lasting well-being, as envisioned by Ayurveda.     All the above-mentioned traits can be developed if you pay attention and are not unattainable. You just need the will to do it.      If you ask me, I am also still working on these traits every day! I’m sure, with some effort one day we will all reach there! Are you also a work-in-progress?  Want to heal from your health conditions and lead a disease-free life?   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.

Yoga Poses That Help Relieve Stomach Upsets Naturally

Most stomach issues arise due to an imbalanced digestive fire (Agni) – a topic Ayurveda gives utmost importance to. While diet and Ayurvedic medicines give long-term relief to the issues, it obviously takes time. Meanwhile, yoga poses can give you faster relief from the symptoms.    Yoga poses for stomach issues    Here are a few yoga poses you can try for your stomach issues:    Uthana Padasana        To do Uthana Padasana pose, you keep your legs stretched at a perpendicular position (at a 90-degree angle) from the ground.    Also called the raised leg pose, Uthana Padasana strengthens the abdominal muscles, improves digestion and relieves digestive problems, such as acidity, constipation and flatulence.    Malasana      To do Malasana pose, you squat down with your feet flat on the ground and your hands together at your chest.    Also called the garland pose, Malasana strengthens your digestive system along with your lower back and hips. This pose is great for improving your metabolism and digestion. It also helps relieve digestive issues.    Pavana Muktasana      To do Pavana Muktasana, lie on your back, hug your knees to your chest and gently rock back and forth.    Also called the wind-relieving pose, Pavana Muktasana helps relieve bloating and gas. This pose is great for constipation, indigestion and other similar stomach problems.    Naukasana      In the Naukasana pose, you lie on your back, lift your legs and upper body off the ground, balancing on your buttocks while extending your arms forward.    Also called the boat pose, Naukasana stimulates the digestive system and helps alleviate constipation, bloating and gas. It also increases the blood flow to the abdomen, thus improving your digestion as well as the health of your internal organs.    Sethubandhasana      To do Sethubandhasana, lie on your back, bend your knees, lift your hips, and hold the pose, like a bridge.    Also called the bridge pose, Sethubandhasana helps stimulate the thyroid gland, which can aid in regulating metabolism and digestion. Relieves stress and anxiety, which can contribute to digestive issues.      Another yoga pose for stomach issues is Kapalabhati Pranayama. It offers long-term relief from stomach issues like gas, bloating and indigestion.      If the issues do not subside, having Ayurvedic preparations like Hingwashtaka churna and lavana bhaskara with buttermilk can help. But first consult your Ayurvedic doctor, as each individual is different and each one of us has a unique state of balance and imbalance.     As the saying goes, “one man’s medicine is another man’s poison” and this is very true about Ayurveda.  You can join our Health Programs for mind and body detox.   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.

Neck Pain No More: Practical Solutions for Text Neck

Do you always have neck pain when your head is forward, neck slumped and shoulders slouched and rounded as you scroll through your phone?  If yes, this is the text neck position.    Text neck position is, in fact, the result of spending long hours hunched over your screens.  When you tilt your heads forward to look at your devices, you put extra stress on your neck muscles and spine. Which causes neck pain.   And if this continues, you will soon say “hi” to aches and  pains around your neck and shoulders. In the long run, it can even cause tightness and compression of the neck muscles, ligaments and tendons.      Further, it can even change the curvature of your spine.     Now that you are aware, there are a few things that you can do to fix this.      Tips to fix text neck position    Here are three things that have worked for me.    Raise the phone    Do not tilt your head forward and maintain your shoulders in a neutral position- not slouched. Try to keep your phone at eye level as much as you can. I know it is difficult. But that is the most ideal position. It is also very important to keep your ears in line with your shoulders.    Counter-pose exercise    If you have done Yogasanas you may know that for every pose, there is a counter pose to balance it. Here is one such counter-pose exercise to fix your text neck position:    Breathe   Bring your head further back a little   Open your mouth   Slowly close your mouth bringing your lower jaw to your upper jaw   You can now, as a result, feel a slight stretch on the front of your neck.   Repeat this exercise a few times.    Routine for quick relief    Try this routine to provide instant relief to a tired neck after hours of using the phone:   Interlace your fingers   Grip the back of the neck with it   Press the neck and look up and then down   Do this 3-4 times    This works, trust me!     Bonus tip: Yogasanas like dhanurasana, padahastasana, and adho mukha shwanansana can also help fix the text neck position.    Text neck position is a modern problem that can affect anyone who spends a lot of time on their smartphone or other digital devices. But by using the above-mentioned tips, you can protect your necks and enjoy your digital world without pain and discomfort.     Remember, a little prevention can go a long way in ensuring our long-term health and well-being. So, let us keep our heads up and our necks in good shape!  You can join our  Health Programs  for mind and body detox.   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.

Ayurveda Millets : A Path to Balance and Vitality

The internet has been singing praises about the goodness of millets for a while now. But are millets really that good and nutritious? Let us see what Ayurveda has to say about millets!  First things first, millets are indeed nutritious. They are packed with essential nutrients and have been a staple in the diets of many cultures for centuries. They are a good source of dietary fibre, vitamins and minerals. However, Ayurveda offers a unique perspective on millets and their consumption.  If your digestion is important, don’t make millets an everyday part of your diet – instead have them once or twice a week! This is because millets are mentioned as “Kudhanya” (unwholesome grain) in Ayurveda and they can disrupt the balance of Doshas if taken on a regular basis.  In the past, the kings and the brahmins and those who belonged to the upper class of the society only could eat nourishing grains like rice and wheat. Millets were mostly eaten by the lower sections of the society as they were more affordable though less nourishing.  But not all millets are made equal. Some millets are good for Vata, some are good for Pitta and Kapha but not Vata and so on.    Best millets to consume according to Ayurveda    It’s important to note that not all millets are created equal in the eyes of Ayurveda. Ayurveda recognizes that various millets have different effects on the Doshas, making some more suitable for specific body types. Ayurveda recommends some millets. Here are they,    Jowar (Sorghum)    Jowar has gluten but is light to digest. It also has cooling properties. It is best to consume Jowar once or twice a week as it is “Kledakara” (clogs channels) and increases Vata.     Bajra (Pearl Millet)    Bajra is a gluten-free millet and is very light to digest. It is an excellent choice if you are trying to lose weight or if you have a sensitive digestive system.    Barley    Barley is one of my favourite millets!  It helps eliminate mucous and relieve constipation. It is also excellent for consumption during spring and fall. Also, drinking barley water is beneficial in urinary tract infections.  Barley is of 2 types. Do not use the smaller type (Yavaka) every day.   Ragi (Finger Millet)    Ragi is another favourite of mine. It is gluten free and is rich in protein. The millet is also super light and digestive.    Ragi also helps balance all Doshas and rejuvenate your body. It also purifies blood and acts as an aphrodisiac.      While Ayurveda recommends the consumption of the millets mentioned above, it is essential to be aware of certain considerations. Experts generally consider millets as goitrogens – substances that may interfere with thyroid function. Therefore, you should not consume them if you have thyroid issues.  You can join our  Health Programs for mind and body detox.   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.

Fruit rules you didn’t know about !

Fruits are nature’s gift to us, packed with essential nutrients and delicious flavours. We all know that eating fruits is good for our health, but did you know there are some lesser-known fruit rules that can make a big difference in how fruits benefit your body?    In this blog, let us explore the five rules about eating fruits that you may not be aware of.    The 5 fruit rules    Choose ripe fruits over sour ones     When it comes to picking fruits, always opt for ripe ones over sour ones. Ripe fruits not only taste better, but they are also easier on your digestive system. If you suffer from acidity, acid reflux, heartburn, gas or bloating, choosing the ripest fruit can make a world of difference.      Eat seasonal fruits     Nature, indeed, has a way of providing us with the right foods at the right time.  Pay attention to the seasons and choose fruits that are in season and grown locally. Seasonal fruits are not only fresher and tastier, but they are also, in addition, more nutritious.”    Do not have dairy with fruits     Never combine dairy with fruits. Mixing dairy products like milk or yogurt with fruits can lead to digestive issues. This combination, can create an imbalance in your gut, thereby causing discomfort, gas, and bloating.   Eat fruits in moderation     Moderation is key when it comes to consuming fruits. While fruits are undoubtedly nutritious, overeating them can have adverse effects on your health.  Fruits, on the other hand, need a different set of digestive tools in order to digest.    Have stewed fruits     If you have gut issues or find it challenging to digest raw fruits, consider having stewed fruits as an alternative. Stewing fruits like pears and peaches, can significantly improve your digestion.   Most importantly, listen to your body!    The most crucial rule of all, is to listen to your body.  You are your best doctor, and no one knows your body better than you do.  Pay close attention to how different foods, including fruits, affect you; also, consider their impact on your overall well-being   If a particular fruit doesn’t agree with you, respect your body’s signals. It is essential to make informed choices about your diet and lifestyle based on your body’s needs. You can either avoid fruits that don’t suit you or work on improving your digestion so that you can enjoy them without any issues.     These five fruit rules can make a significant impact on your overall well-being. Remember, when it comes to your diet, you are in control. So make choices that work best for you and your body.        You can join our  Health Programs for mind and body detox. And If you are struggling with any health issues, you can book a   consultation with us or give us a message via WhatsApp at +91 79074 89839. We have the Best Ayurvedic Doctors in Trivandrum who is always glad to helps you . If you have any queries,   contact us. You can also   visit.

Sperm Health : 5 Natural Ways to Elevate Male Fertility

Sperm health is a vital factor in fertility. The quality and quantity of sperm can significantly impact the chances of conceiving. It also has an impact on the overall reproductive health of men. The testicles produce sperm. If you have noticed, the testicles hang below the body in a pouch called scrotum, and not inside the body. This is to maintain a temperature lower than the body temperature. Hence it is important to do cooling practices for healthy sperm. Whether you are trying to conceive or just curious about how to maintain your reproductive wellness, the following tips can help.   Tips to boost sperm health   Improving sperm health does not require any complex rituals. Here are 5 simple ways by which you can boost sperm health:   Keep your laptops away from your lap Laptops can cause overheating of your scrotal area up to 5 degrees affecting your sperm health.   Keep your phones away from your pocket The Wi-Fi signals from phones emit EMF radiations and affect sperm count, and motility, and even alter its physical structure.   Include cooling foods in your diet “Cooling foods” does not mean cold foods, but those foods that have a cooling effect on the body like Amla, black raisins, sweet melons, tender coconut water, barley water, etc.   Strictly avoid incompatible foods Having incompatible foods affects digestion and absorption of food. Good absorption helps build and improve the reproductive tissue. Hence avoid combinations like fruit and milk, dairy and meat, etc.   Reduce stress and exercise more ‘Manopaghata’ or stress can increase cortisol levels and thus reduce testosterone levels – one of the important hormones for sperm health. Exercise works the opposite.   Remember, the above-mentioned tips are not just steps to boost sperm health; they are pillars of overall well-being as well. By adopting these practices, you’re not only supporting your fertility but also nurturing a healthier you. By taking these small, meaningful steps, you are empowering yourself to make a positive impact on your reproductive health!   Ayurvedic treatment for low sperm health   In 90% of the cases, sperm count, quality and motility can be increased tremendously with a few months of Ayurvedic treatment that involves just the right food, treatment and some medicines. In a few extreme cases, treatments like a combination of Yapana and Anuvasana Vastis may be required and are found to be extremely effective. You can join our  Health Programs for mind and body detox.   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 endometriosis curable?

Endometriosis is one health condition that can interfere with your daily life.  Marked by long-term pain, discrepancies in menstrual cycle and fertility issues, the condition can cause you great sense of discomfort.     In this blog, let us, therefore, explore more about the condition, its symptoms, and, also, its treatment.   What is endometriosis?   The word “endo” means inside and “metra” means uterus. “Endometrium is, in fact, the lining, or inside layer, of the uterus.   Every month, the endometrium keeps growing and sheds – this is known as periods or menstruation. But sometimes, small pieces of endometrium grows and bleeds outside the uterus, commonly in the pelvic cavity, ovaries and fallopian tubes and this condition is what we call as endometriosis.    Symptoms of endometriosis   These are some of the symptoms that people suffering from endometriosis generally experience:  Heavy bleeding during periods or spotting between periods  Extremely painful menstrual cramps Chronic abdominal or lower back pain during your period or in between your periods  Painful intercourse  Infertility  Painful bowel movements or urination    Do you need surgery to treat endometriosis?   Ayurveda says NO!   According to Ayurveda, endometriosis is a condition where your Vata is imbalanced, especially a subdivision of Vata known as Apana Vata, which is responsible moving downwards. It is completely reversible with Ayurvedic treatment.    Diet and lifestyle tips   Here are a few diet and lifestyle tips, for instance, that you can follow to keep your endometriosis in check:   Have a balanced diet  without using bitter, astringent and spicy foods excessively.  All meals should have good fats added.  No raw vegetables and salads  Do not skip meals at any cost  Do not indulge in excessive sexual intercourse  Do not have sex during periods Do not suppress the natural urges of the body – especially hunger, urination and defecation The above-mentioned tips do work to some extent. But the best way is to consult an Ayurvedic doctor and seek treatment. Early diagnosis and treatment are, therefore, important for better quality of life and, additionally, to protect fertility. You can join our   Health Programs for mind and body detox.   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.

oil pulling – the amazing Ayurvedic practice for oral hygiene

According to Ayurveda, an imbalanced Agni (digestive fire) is the root of all diseases. Therefore, Ayurveda gives utmost importance to digestion and the mouth is the starting point of digestion. That’s why maintaining oral hygiene is important and the best way for that is to do oil pulling!    What   is  oil  pulling?        Oil pulling is an age-old Ayurvedic practice that involves retaining oil in the mouth for some time before spitting it out. It is a Dinacharya (daily routine) mentioned in Ayurvedic texts or Samhitas. It promotes oral hygiene and thus, overall health.    Which oil is the best for oil pulling?    Online sources and big brands often endorse coconut oil for oil pulling. But none of the Ayurvedic texts or Samhitas recommend coconut oil.       Organic black sesame oil is universally acceptable. It is suitable for all Prakriti (body types) and, furthermore, is great for oil pulling.    If you don’t like oil, you can even also use hot water instead.   How to do oil pulling?      You can follow the following steps to do oil pulling:   Give a light massage to the head, neck and shoulders  Steam face, neck and shoulders   Keep the face a little lifted up   Gargle/hold the recommended liquid in the mouth – You can either hold the oil entirely in your mouth and not move it around or you can take about 2 spoons of oil and swish it around.   Spit it out   Lightly massage and foment again    How long should you do it?      Ayurvedic texts mention that you must do it until you experience oozing from your nose and eyes or when your mouth is filled with saliva. This typically takes around 10 to 15 minutes. You can then spit it out.       If you do not have time, just hold the oil in your mouth for a few minutes and then spit it out.    When should you do it?      “Shall I do oil pulling before or after brushing my teeth?”  I get this question often.      Different Ayurvedic texts mention different ways. But I personally prefer doing oil pulling before brushing.    If you decide to give it a try, be patient and consistent with the routine. It can be a part of your oral care routine, but remember, it is not the complete solution for your oral health. Other steps for proper oral hygiene, like brushing, tongue scraping and having a balanced diet are also equally important.    Want to learn more about Dinacharya practices?  Download my latest ebook – A COMPLETE GUIDE TO AYURVEDIC MORNING ROUTINE for FREE today!   You can join our  Health Programs for mind and body detox.   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..