Is horse gram good for Pitta bodies?

Horse gram is a popular legume that is often consumed in South India. It is rich in fibre and protein and is great for people looking to lose their weight. However, horse gram is not ideal for all, especially if you are a Pitta body. Pitta Dosha is one of the three Doshas (biophysical energies). This Dosha is responsible for digestion and all metabolic activities as well as maintaining body heat. However, when Pitta aggravates, it can lead to problems like acidity, inflammation and skin issues.  So, if you have a Pitta predominant body type, having horse gram can do more harm that good.    Nature of Horse Gram    Horse gram is considered hot and dry, and it has a spicy taste. These qualities can make Pitta Dosha even more imbalanced because Pitta is already hot. Eating spicy and hot foods can make your body even hotter and cause issues like heartburn and inflammation.  Also, horse gram can be hard to digest. People with a lot of Pitta already have strong digestion, and eating tough-to-digest foods can strain the digestive system and lead to problems. This can create toxins (Ama) in the body, making Pitta Dosha even worse.  Furthermore, horse gram is drying, and Pitta individuals tend to have dry skin and hair. Eating drying foods can make these issues worse and lead to dryness in the digestive system, causing constipation and other stomach problems.  According to Ayurveda, it is best to eat foods that help balance your Doshas. So, if you have a lot of Pitta, it is better to eat foods that cool your body down and keep it hydrated. Some examples of these cooling foods are cucumber, coconut, melons and leafy greens.  Horse gram is not the best choice for people with a lot of Pitta in their bodies because it is hot, hard to digest, and drying. If you are a Pitta person, it is better to focus on eating foods that cool you down and keep you hydrated to balance your Dosha and stay healthy.    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.

The Governor of Kerala Gave Me an Excellence Award – A Win for Real Ayurveda!

Recently,  I received an Excellence Award from the honourable Governor of Kerala, Arif Mohammed Khan for my contribution towards Ayurveda.   When I received a letter informing me that I had been selected as a recipient of  award, it was a surreal moment. At first, I couldn’t believe that my passion had garnered such recognition. The award is not just a personal achievement. I’d rather consider it as a validation of Ayurveda’s relevance and importance in modern times. I am really happy that Ayurveda is getting the recognition it truly deserves. I’d consider this award a win for Real Ayurveda! The day of the award ceremony was a whirlwind of emotions. Standing on that stage, receiving the award, I felt a deep sense of gratitude to all the people who had supported me throughout my journey – my family, my mentors, my team and the people who came to me, trusting me as a doctor. It was a humbling experience that reminded me of the immense responsibility that came with the honour. My career as an Ayurvedic doctor started as a simple step towards continuing the legacy of my father and forefathers. When I started out , the only thing I had with me was my knowledge and my trust in Ayurveda. As I gained experience, I realised how Ayurvedic practices were often tweaked to match the modern standards. That’s when I figured out my ultimate goal – bringing global recognition to real Ayurveda and started working towards it. To many, my contributions might seem like a drop in the ocean. But I believe even the tiniest drop can start a ripple!    I’d like to think of all awards and recognitions I have received so far as a proof that I’m walking down the right path.  The one person I’m always grateful for as I stand at this point in my career is my dad. Whatever I’ve done and achieved so far was possible because of my dad. He had given me the biggest gift in the form of lessons, wisdom and love that I’d always cherish. And that’s why when I stood on the stage receiving my award, I missed him more than I ever did. It made me realise that nothing in the world can bring the happiness of having our parents alive and seeing us succeed!   Today, when I look back, I realise that my journey from being a BAMS student to an experienced Ayurvedic practitioner has been filled with dedication, challenges and moments of profound joy. Winning the Excellence Award is not just an endpoint, but a new beginning. It has motivated me to continue working towards my ultimate goal.   My journey is far from over! Ayurveda has not only enriched my life, but has also allowed me to contribute to the well-being of countless individuals. And I am excited to see how it will continue to evolve and touch more lives.  I believe this award is a reminder that when you follow your heart and dedicate yourself to a cause you believe in, the possibilities are endless.  And I’m going to make use of all those possibilities to move forward towards my goal!   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.

Nymphea as an Ayurvedic medicinal herb

The beautiful aquatic plant Nymphea, also called water lily, is frequently utilized in Ayurveda medicine. There are plenty of benefits of Nymphea as an Ayurvedic herb. It has long been employed in Ayurvedic medicine because of its well-known therapeutic qualities.     We’ll talk about Nymphea’s advantages as an Ayurveda herb in this blog.    Advantages of Nymphea   Nymphea offers the following benefits as an Ayurvedic herb.    Relieves stress and anxiety  Nymphea, in fact, is an excellent herb for relieving stress and anxiety. It is known for its calming properties, which can help to relax the mind and reduce feelings of anxiety. The herb also helps to improve sleep quality, which is essential for reducing stress and anxiety.     Enhances digestion  Nymphea works well to enhance digestion. It aids in enhancing hunger, stimulating the digestive system, and easing constipation. The body has a cooling sensation from it; consequently, this may assist in lessening inflammation and other digestive problems.   Anti-inflammatory properties  Nymphea, furthermore, possesses anti-inflammatory qualities that may, in fact, assist in lessening inflammation within the body.  Several chronic diseases are primarily brought on by inflammation and Nymphea can help to reduce their symptoms.     Cancer-preventing properties  Nymphea includes substances that have cancer-preventing qualities. The herb is a beneficial supplement to cancer treatment regimens since it can aid in halting the growth and spread of cancer cells.     Helps to maintain healthy skin  The anti-inflammatory effects of Nymphea, therefore, help improve acne and, in addition, other skin disorders.  Moreover, it contains antioxidants that can aid in defending the skin against damage brought on by free radicals.     Helps to regulate blood sugar levels  Nymphea is a great herb for diabetics because it can assist to control blood sugar levels. It aids in enhancing insulin sensitivity, lowering blood sugar levels, and avoiding diabetes problems.     Relieves pain  It is a natural pain reliever. The herb can help to reduce pain caused by conditions such as arthritis, headaches, and menstrual cramps.      In conclusion, Nymphea is an excellent Ayurvedic medicinal herb that offers a range of health benefits. It is a natural remedy that can help to improve digestion, boost immunity, reduce inflammation, relieve pain and regulate blood sugar levels, among other benefits.  It is, therefore, safe to use and has no side effects; consequently, it is an excellent alternative to synthetic medications.   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.

Bloated stomach Remedy in Ayurveda – Ajwain Faanta

Ajwain Faanta, also known as Ajwain water or carom seed water, is a traditional Ayurvedic remedy for bloated stomach.    It is made using Ajwain (Trachyspermum ammi) – a herbaceous plant native to India and the eastern Mediterranean region. Its seeds have a pungent, bitter taste and are used as a spice in many Indian dishes. Ajwain seeds are also known for their medicinal properties, including their ability to relieve digestive problems.          Ajwain Faanta  Recipe For Bloated Stomach     Here’s how you can make Ajwain Faanta.    Ingredients:  Ajwain (Carom seeds) – 20 grams   Hot water – 80 ml     Method of preparation:  Add the carom seeds to a bowl and pour the hot water into the bowl as well.   Let it stay there for 10 minutes.   After 10 minutes, strain the water and let it cool to room temperature.   Drink the Ajwain Faanta when it is lukewarm.    How Does Ajwain Faanta Help Ease Bloating and Discomfort?    Here are a few ways Ajwain Faanta can ease bloating and discomfort in the stomach:    Reduces stomach discomfort  Ajwain Faanta possesses analgesic qualities that may be utilized to lessen stomach pain brought on by indigestion, gas, or bloating.     Enhances digestion  The enzymes in ajwain seeds aid in the breakdown of food in the gastrointestinal tract. This may aid in enhancing digestion and easing indigestion symptoms like nausea and vomiting.     Increases fat burning and metabolism  Ajwain seeds have a thermogenic effect, which means they can aid to increase fat burning and metabolism. This could aid in encouraging weight loss and reducing belly fat.     Anti-inflammatory qualities  The anti-inflammatory characteristics of ajwain seeds may assist to lessen digestive system inflammation. This can aid in reducing the signs and symptoms of digestive diseases like inflammatory bowel disease (IBD).     Ajwain Faanta is a well-known Ayurvedic remedy for bloated stomach. It is simple to prepare at home and is great to enhance intestinal health. Nonetheless, it is crucial to speak with a healthcare provider for an accurate diagnosis and treatment if you have severe or persistent digestive issues.    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.

Varicose Veins ? Try These 5 Ayurvedic Tips for Lasting Relief

In Ayurveda, varicose veins are referred to as “Siraja Granthi” are caused by an imbalance in the three Doshas – Vata, Pitta and Kapha.  There are plenty of Ayurvedic tips for varicose veins.   In this blog, I’d like to share few tips that might be of help if you are suffering from varicose veins.     Ayurvedic Tips for Varicose Veins      Spend as little time standing or sitting as possible  Extended standing or sitting can exacerbate varicose veins. Try to take breaks and move around as often as you can if your job demands you to stand or remain still for extended periods of time. Avoid crossing your legs while sitting as this can limit blood flow. Moreover, elevating the legs while sitting or lying down can aid to ease vein pressure and boost blood flow.     Keep a healthy diet  Consuming a high-fibre, low-salt diet will help to prevent constipation and fluid retention, which can aggravate varicose veins. Antioxidant-rich foods, such as berries and leafy green vegetables, can also aid in lowering inflammation. Citrus fruits and other vitamin C-rich foods can assist to strengthen the veins and boost circulation. Reduced inflammation and the promotion of healthy veins can also be achieved by abstaining from coffee, alcohol and processed meals.    Massage with warm oil  Ayurveda recommends massaging the affected area with warm oil, such as sesame oil or coconut oil, to improve circulation and reduce inflammation. Massaging the legs with upward strokes can help to relieve pain and swelling associated with varicose veins. Warm oil can penetrate deep into the tissues, nourishing and strengthening the veins and tissues around them. It also helps to reduce dryness, itching, and skin problems.     Do Yoga  Yogasana can be helpful in managing  it  according to Ayurveda. It helps to improve blood circulation, strengthen the muscles and veins and reduce stress levels, all of which can be beneficial in managing it. Yogasanas, especially the ones with inversion poses-Sirshasana, Merudandasana, Padauttanasana, Sarvangasana, Noukasana etc. are beneficial.     Do moderate exercise daily  Moderate activity can help with varicose veins. However, high-impact activities like sprinting or leaping should be avoided because they exert too much strain on the veins. You must consult a certified Ayurveda practitioner before starting any new workout regimen.    If these are not helping, you may need internal Ayurvedic medicines, correction of diet and some routines. Do not wait till it becomes tortuous and bleeding and until surgery becomes the only option.    If you are struggling with any health issues, you can either book a consultation with us or send us a message via WhatsApp to +91 79074 89839. We have the best Ayurvedic doctors in Trivandrum who are always glad to help you. If you have any queries, contact us.  You can also visit us at our hospital.

Why Cold Showers is Harmful for You ?

Every time I post about warm baths, people ask me if cold showers and cold plunges are good. And for the answer, I would say that it is not an Ayurvedic practice.     Here is why.    Your internal environment is warm, i.e., your body needs warmth for digestion, circulation and all metabolic processes.    Just imagine how during winters, because the external environment is cold, your body tries to keep the internal environment warm. Similarly, when you do cold plunges, your body will have to work hard to preserve that warmth.    Do you really want your body to work so hard?  No!       Effect of cold showers on your body      When you plunge yourself in cold water, you are only aggravating the Vata and increasing the cold. This can mean aches, pains, muscle stiffness, dryness, low metabolism, impaired digestion and imbalanced hormones!    Cold plunges and showers can be stressful on the body, especially if done regularly or for extended periods. This can lead to an increase in the stress hormone cortisol, which can negatively impact the immune system, digestion, and mental health. In Ayurveda, stress is considered a major contributor to disease. So, it is important to avoid anything that causes unnecessary stress on the body.    Cold temperatures can negatively impact the neurological system and this can result in a number of physical and mental health problems. The neurological system is in charge of everything, including respiration, digestion, and sleep. Anxiety, sleeplessness, digestive problems and even chronic pain can result from a disturbed neural system.    Warm showers, on the contrary, are Vata subsiding and are best recommended in Ayurveda. As an Ayurvedic doctor, I’d recommend always listening to your body. After all, what it needs is warmth.     Who can do cold plunges/showers?   If you are someone who is habituated to taking bath in cold water, you can continue doing so. This is because it has become “Satmya” for you (favourable by habit). It won’t cause any disturbance in the body.    If you are struggling with any health issues, you can either book a consultation with us or send us a message via WhatsApp to +91 79074 89839. We have the best Ayurvedic doctors in Trivandrum who are always glad to help you. If you have any queries, contact us.  You can also visit us at our hospital.

Why Emotions Shouldn’t be Expressed for Long Periods of Time

Emotions are a normal and essential aspect of human experience. However, Ayurveda says if you explicitly express emotions for prolonged periods of time, it might be harmful for both your physical and mental health.   Ayurveda recognizes that each individual has a unique emotional makeup. Therefore, the way in which emotions are expressed and processed will vary from person to person. Some people express it openly and freely, while others may be more reserved and internalize their emotions.   Regardless of an individual’s natural tendency towards expressing it, Ayurveda suggests that it is important to find a balance between expressing it and keeping them in check. Practices such as meditation, yoga and deep breathing exercises can help. These practices help to release pent-up emotions and promote relaxation and calmness.       Emotions  and  Imbalances     According to Ayurveda, we should limit the emotions for extended periods of time. Otherwise, it can lead to imbalances in the Doshas (biophysical energies). When you do not process it in a healthy manner, it can lead to an excess of certain Doshas. This can manifest as physical or mental health issues.   For example, excessive expression of anger or frustration can result in an increase in Pitta Dosha. This can lead to inflammation, digestive problems and skin issues. Similarly, prolonged sadness or grief can increase the Kapha Dosha, which can lead to lethargy, weight gain and respiratory problems.   In addition, Ayurveda recognizes that emotions are closely linked to the mind and that prolonged expression of negative emotions can have a detrimental effect on mental health. When negative emotions are not processed in a healthy manner, it can lead to increased anxiety, depression and other mental health issues.   Therefore, Ayurveda recommends finding healthy outlets for emotions. For example, engaging in creative activities, spending time in nature or seeking support from friends and family. It is also important to cultivate a positive mindset and practice gratitude. This can help to counteract negative emotions and promote overall well-being.   While experiencing it is a normal and necessary aspect of being a person, it’s critical to strike a balance between expressing those feelings and controlling them. Long-term negative emotion expression can be harmful to one’s physical and mental health and can cause Dosha imbalances. Finding constructive outlets for emotions and using healthy emotional coping mechanisms can help to improve overall well-being and keep the Doshas in balance.    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.

Are flax seeds really healthy?

The internet nowadays promotes flax seeds as one of the superfoods. Many sources claim that flax seeds are healthy and packed with nutrients.    But are these tiny seeds really worth the hype?   Let us see.      Ayurveda’s take on flax seeds     According to Ayurveda, flax seeds have a cooling property. This can disturb the balance of the digestive fire (Agni). This cooling effect can lead to digestive issues, such as bloating, gas and constipation. The oily nature of these seeds can also aggravate Kapha Dosha. This can lead to excess mucus production, congestion and sluggishness.    Flax seeds may also disrupt the body’s normal hormonal balance, especially in women, according to Ayurveda. Flax seeds contain lignans, which are phytoestrogens that mimic the action of estrogen in the body. Consuming them might further imbalance hormone levels in women who already have high estrogen levels, which can result in irregular menstruation, sore breasts and other problems.     Ayurveda also advises against consuming flax seeds due to their potential for toxicity. While they are generally safe for most people to consume, they contain a compound called cyanogenic glycosides, which can be converted to cyanide in the body under certain conditions. While this conversion is unlikely to occur in normal consumption, it can happen if they are improperly prepared or consumed in large amounts.    In short, flax seeds are not as healthy as they seem to be. According to Ayurveda, they are cooling and oily, have detrimental effects on the Doshas, can cause hormone imbalances, detrimental effects on the mind, and potential for toxicity. Alternatively, Ayurveda advises consuming seeds like sesame, pumpkin and sunflower seeds that are better at balancing Doshas.    Rather than focusing on certain foods or nutrients, Ayurveda stresses the significance of a balanced and personalized diet that takes into account each individual’s particular needs and imbalances. Therefore, instead of going by the trends, it is safe to follow a diet that best suits you.    If you are struggling with any health issues, you can either book a consultation with us or send us a message via WhatsApp to +91 79074 89839. We have the best Ayurvedic doctors in Trivandrum who are always glad to help you. If you have any queries, contact us.  You can also visit us at our hospital.

Nose blockage and congestion ? Here’s an Ayurvedic solution

Looking for a remedy for blocked nose and congestion ? You are at the right place! The change of seasons often brings with it the not-so-welcome companions – a blocked nose and congestion. Whether it is due to allergies, a common cold, or other factors, the discomfort they cause can be quite a nuisance.  It can quickly turn a good day into, on the other hand, a miserable one.    But before you reach for over-the-counter remedies, why not explore a simple and effective Ayurvedic solution that can help you breathe easy in just a few minutes?    There are, indeed, a lot of remedies for blocked noses and congestion in Ayurveda. Most of them are quite effective.   In this blog, I will share an easy Ayurvedic remedy that will be suitable for everyone who has blocked nose and chest congestion.    Ingredients:    Organic black sesame oil – 1 tablespoon  Green camphor – a pinch  Himalayan pink salt – a pinch    Method of preparation:     Take 1 tablespoon of organic black sesame oil and mix it up with a pinch of green camphor and a pinch of Himalayan pink salt, then slightly warm it up.  Apply this over the chest, nose, and neck area; then, leave it there for a few minutes.  Along with that apply steam. Your blocked nose and congestion, therefore, will be gone within minutes.   Benefits    The three ingredients of the recipe – organic black sesame oil, green camphor and Himalayan pink salt have great healing properties.     Sesame seeds are rich in antioxidants and, moreover, they have anti-inflammatory properties. Organic black sesame oil also has a warming effect on the body, thus helping to reduce cold-related symptoms.     Camphor acts as a decongestant and cough suppressant.    Himalayan Pink salt helps prevent dehydration and loosen mucous.   With just a few natural ingredients and a little self-care, you can open up your airways and start breathing easy again. So, give this Ayurvedic remedy a try the next time congestion comes knocking and experience the soothing relief it can provide.     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.

Wild Turmeric Identification Tips

People often fail to recognize pure wild turmeric and mistake it for normal turmeric. It is mainly because people don’t know how exactly it looks like.    How to identify wild turmeric?      Wild turmeric or Kasturi Manjal is an essential part of Ayurveda for its medicinal and cosmetic properties. It has anti-inflammatory, anti-bacterial and anti-septic properties and is great for healing wounds and treating various health conditions.   As someone who is familiar with the characteristics of pure wild turmeric, there are a few things that I look for when trying to identify it:    Colour    The first property that distinguishes wild turmeric from its counterparts is colour. Pure wild turmeric typically has a beige colour that is uniform throughout. If the colour is bright yellow or orange, it may be an indication that the turmeric is not pure, and it is adulterated with yellow colour.     Texture     Secondly, I check the texture of the turmeric. The pure one tends to be harder and more fibrous than other types of turmeric. It may have a rough or slightly gritty texture when rubbed between the fingers.     Aroma    The last property to identifying it is its aroma. Pure wild turmeric has a strong, earthy smell that is distinctive from other types of trumeric . It may also have a slightly bitter or astringent scent.     In summary, when trying to recognize pure wild turmeric, look for a beige and uniform colour, a hard and fibrous texture, and a strong and earthy aroma.    Benefits     Anti–inflammatory properties    It is rich in antioxidants. You can boil water, add a tiny bit of turmeric and drink it twice a day for relief from a cough or sore throat.     In addition, It has anti-cancer properties. It thus reduces the risk of developing health problems by preventing free radicals from hurting our healthy cells and slowing down the growth and spread of tumours. It also helps diabetic to keep their sugar levels under control.    Strengthens immune system    Curcumin- the component that gives turmeric its yellow colour helps strengthen the immune system and ward off infections. This helps to suppress cytokines that cause inflammation and manage allergies.    Healing properties    It has natural healing propertieshelps treat both minor and major wounds and speeds up the healing process.  It also has properties that help repel mosquitoes and heal from mosquito bites.     Detoxifies liver    Turmeric also helps purify liver as well as protect other organs like heart, brain and kidneys. It is also used widely in treating different neurological health conditions, like Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s.     Fights arthritis    The anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective properties of wild turmeric help cure arthritis. Curcumin in wild turmeric helps fight both inflammatory and degenerative arthritis. It can be used in daily cooking, added to tea or even consumed as a supplement to cure arthritis.     Great for skin    Wild turmeric has been used as a beauty product in India since centuries. It is great in curing tans and acnes, removing oil from skin and unwanted facial hair.    It offers a variety of benefits and is hence a widely used ingredient in cosmetic products as well as medicines. Its very similar to normal turmeric. So, the next time you buy pure wild turmeric, remember to look for the above-mentioned properties to identify it.   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.