Liver Health Revolution: The Only Supplement You’ll Ever Need

Liver Health is crucial for maintaining overall well-being. I have seen social media influencers incorporating a “hand-full” of supplements, in different colours and sizes, in their morning routine. Whenever I see that, I always think of how their liver might be crying for help with all that!    In the past, people used medicines and supplements for diseases. Nowadays “health” is so marketed that everyone thinks they need all of these supplements to stay healthy!!!    In reality, health thrives in simplicity. The more you complicate “health”, the more you are disturbing the natural balance of the body. Take what is absolutely necessary and stop unnecessary supplements, be it herbal, Ayurvedic or artificial. You are only as healthy as your liver health.    What is your liver’s main job?    Your liver is like a superhero in your body. In fact, it detoxifies everything—from regular food to junk food, supplements, medicines, and even your feelings. Moreover, your liver has a very responsible and hectic job.   Therefore, your liver yearns for nothing, but a break.     What can you do for your liver health?    Now, how can you support your liver? The answer is simple and ancient – fasting!  Fasting is like nature’s reset button.  Furthermore, giving ample rest to the liver by fasting helps it to replenish, repair, and  function optimally.   Benefits of fasting for your liver health    Fasting is the best supplement for liver and it is priceless.    Rest and repair  Fasting lets your liver rest and repair itself, keeping it in top shape.    Detoxification  Without new food coming in, your liver can therefore, focus on detoxifying your body, getting rid of toxins, and, ultimately, keeping you healthy.   Blood sugar control  Fasting helps regulate blood sugar levels, making things easier for your liver and improving your overall metabolism.    Weight management  Fasting encourages your body to use stored fat for energy, taking some load off your liver.     Do not overdo it    While fasting is fantastic for liver health, it is crucial to find the right balance. Pay attention to your body and consult an Ayurvedic doctor, especially if you are suffering from health conditions. Too much or too long fasting can be harmful, so find a rhythm that works for you.    So, the next time you think about adding another supplement to your routine, remember, the best one for your liver is free – fasting. Listen to your body and give your liver the support it craves.  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.

Low Energy Levels Draining You? Try this Ayurvedic superfood

Amaranth, also known as Rajgira, is a gluten-free grain-like plant and also a great source of dietary fibre. The word Amaranth translates to “immortal.” And it literally lives up to its name! Amaranth is a powerhouse when it comes to boosting your energy levels.   Both the leaves and seeds of Amaranth are nutrient-packed, offering proteins, calcium, zinc, iron, and vitamins A and C. The essential amino acid lysine in Amaranth leaves not only aids in energy improvement but also helps with calcium absorption.   It is extremely beneficial for people who feel tired and weak often or recovering from a surgery or a disease. In my hospital I give Amaranth soup to patients as a post-treatment meal.   Health benefits of Amaranth   Amaranth, being an Ayurvedic superfood, offers a variety of health benefits.   Bone strength Amaranth is rich in calcium and therefore, helps strengthen your bones.   Heart health The magnesium and phenolic acid contained in Amaranth help resist heart diseases and strengthen heart muscles.   Energy and digestion Amaranth also helps improve your energy levels and digestion.   Gluten-free goodness Being gluten-free, Amaranth is a great choice for people suffering from celiac disease or gluten sensitivity.   Anti-inflammatory roots The roots of Amaranth have anti-inflammatory properties and are used to relieve pain and inflammation.   In Ayurveda, practitioners use amaranth for a wide range of purposes, including treating blood and respiratory disorders, diabetes, urinary tract infections, diarrhoea, wounds, throat infections, and blood purification.   Ways to consume Amaranth   Amaranth may be heavy to digest for some people. But it can be made digestible by cooking it well. There are many healthy ways to consume Amaranth.   You can cook and consume Amaranth grains like how you cook rice or quinoa.   Another option is to pop amaranth grains and have it like popcorn.   You can also create a nutritious breakfast cereal or porridge by adding cooked Amaranth grains with honey or milk.   Amaranth soup also makes a great option.   You can also make a side dish by sautéing Amaranth leaves in ghee, seasoning it with black pepper and cumin.   Despite its amazing health benefits, it is not advisable to have Amaranth every day. Overconsumption of Amaranth may increase Kapha. So, it is best consumed once or maximum twice a week.   As a child, I used to cry when asked to eat amaranth thoran (a Kerala dish made with sautéed amaranth leaves and coconut). Today I tell all my patients to have it! The irony of life!   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.

Tips for long hair: 6 things I do to grow my hair long

I’m often asked about the secret tips for my long hair.     Firstly, I’d like to thank my genetics, as it decides how long your hair will grow, no matter how much you try. However, that’s not the whole story!    In this blog, I’ll share six tips that I follow to achieve my long hair goals.    Tips for long hair    Here they are.   Nourishing from the inside out   The first thing I do is focus on my diet. I opt for easily digestible foods to maintain good digestion and elimination.    What we eat can significantly impact hair health. Choosing easily digestible foods is a great start. A well-functioning digestive system ensures your body can absorb essential nutrients for healthy hair growth.    Handling with care   I always try to be gentle while handling my hair, especially while drying it after washing and detangling.    Treating your hair gently is crucial, especially when it’s wet, as it is more delicate and prone to damage. Avoid aggressively rubbing your hair to dry it. Instead, use a soft towel and gently blot out the excess water.    Trimming the ends   I make sure to trim the ends of my hair once a month without fail. This helps remove split ends and promotes healthier, faster hair growth.    Keeping the scalp clean   I wash my hair 2-3 times a week. Daily washing can strip your hair of its natural oils, leading to dryness and breakage.    It is essential to maintain a clean scalp; consequently, this allows your hair follicles to breathe, thereby promoting better growth.    Using hair oil and hair scrub   Another thing I do to maintain my hair health is using hair oil and hair scrub before every wash.     Before washing my hair, I always apply Dr. Rekha Ayurvedic Hair Oil, which contains all-natural ingredients that nourish the scalp and boost hair growth. I also use Dr. Rekha Ayurvedic Hair Scrub to exfoliate my scalp. The ingredients in the scrub help maintain hair and scalp health, control hair fall, exfoliate the scalp, and rejuvenate hair, scalp, and skin.    Braiding hair before sleep   If you are from India, you might be familiar with your mother asking you to braid your hair before you sleep. Braiding not only prevents tangling but also minimizes damage caused by rubbing against your pillowcase.    Remember to make loose braids, as tying your hair tightly can affect your hair health.    Remember, patience is key when working toward your long hair goals. Results won’t happen overnight, but with consistent care and attention, you’ll be on your way to achieving your dream hair length.  Want to improve your hair health? Join our skin and hair care health program.    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.

Uterine Fibroids Treatment : How Ayurveda Offers Natural Relief

Uterine fibroids are non-cancerous growths in the uterus common in women in their reproductive ages. Modern medicine suggests strong medications and surgery as its  treatment. Unfortunately, most people resort to these methods without looking for other options.      While they can occur at any age, they are most prevalent among women in their 40s and early 50s. Studies show that about 20% to 80% of women will develop uterine fibroids by the time they reach the age of 50.        Do you know that Ayurveda can treat uterine fibroids and reduce them in size without strong medications and surgery?    What are uterine fibroids?    Uterine fibroids are benign tumours that develop within the uterine muscle. These growths can vary in size, number, and location within the uterus.     Symptoms of uterine fibroids    The following symptoms suggest that you may have uterine fibroids:   Heavy flow during periods   Longer periods lasting more than 10 days   Pain around the pelvis   Frequent urination & difficulty in emptying, etc.     However, they can be asymptomatic too, and you may detect it only with an ultrasound.    Ayurveda and uterine fibroids    Ayurvedically, we treat this based on the Dosha-Dhatu imbalance of individual patients, with Ayurvedic medicines, diet and routines. They can be completely reduced in size with Ayurveda.      Ayurvedic practitioners prescribe herbal formulations that aim to restore balance to the Doshas and promote the body’s natural healing processes. These herbal remedies can help reduce the size of fibroids and alleviate associated symptoms.    Ayurvedic dietary recommendations are personalized to address the specific Dosha imbalance. A balanced diet with an emphasis on whole foods, fruits, vegetables, and herbs is encouraged to support overall well-being.    Indeed, Ayurveda places great importance on daily routines (Dinacharya) and, furthermore, seasonal routines (Ritucharya).  Adhering to these routines can help maintain a harmonious balance within the body and mind, promoting healing.    But unfortunately, people consider Ayurveda the “last resort” or the “last option” when other medical systems fail.  Most patients come to Ayurveda for treatment for uterine fibroids only after they have grown quite big in size – when modern medicine has advised surgery as the only option. At this point, it becomes difficult even for a good Ayurvedic doctor to treat.      So, seek Ayurvedic support as soon as you are diagnosed with fibroids. Don’t wait for the fibroids to get bigger, even if it stays asymptomatic!  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.

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.