Plum – The One Ayurvedic fruit you can have everyday

According to Ayurveda, eating too many fruit is bad for you. You must limit your fruit consumption. I’ve previously discussed Amla, grapes, and pomegranate, and how all of these fruits are extremely beneficial to us in a variety of ways. Today, I’d like to introduce you to a fruit that is not only healthy, but also does not increase any of the three Doshas. Ripe Plum is the name of that fruit.  It is remarkably easy to digest, and anyone can consume it without regard for how it affects digestion or whether it is hot or cold. The one that is very ripe and sweet, but not sour. It is a magical fruit that is suitable for everyone. In Ayurveda, plums have several health benefits depends on their properties, which were considered to cool, hydrate, and detoxify. Here’s a closer look at the Ayurvedic benefits of plums:    Balancing Doshas   Plums are good for balancing Vata dosha due to their cooling and hydrating nature. The cooling effectiveness of plum can balance Pitta dosha which is related with heat and inflammation. You can consume plums, due to their light and slightly acidic nature, to avoid the Kapha if you have excess mucus.       2.  Digestive Health   Plums are rich in dietary fiber; consequently, this helps in healthy digestion and regular bowel movement. Plums helps in promoting gut health. The natural laxative properties of plums helps in detoxifying the body  by flushing out toxins through digestive system        3.  Rich in Nutrients   Plums contain different kinds of antioxidants such as vitamin C and polyphenols, which fight off oxidative stress for overall health. They contain vital vitamins A, C, and K, as well as potassium and iron, all of which participate in numerous functions of the body.       4. Skin Health   Plums are rich in vitamins and antioxidants that help in healthy skin; they help in hydration and reduce oxidative damage. They can be useful in fostering good, glowing skin.      5.   Immunity   The vitamin C content of plums strengthens the  immune system, thereby increasing its capacity to fight against infections and diseases     How to Eat   The fresh plum can be consumed as a snack, added in salads, or blended together in smoothies. The fresh juice of plum is refreshing and hydrating, but since it contains natural sugar, it should be consumed in moderation. The important thing is, you don’t overdo 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.  You can also follow me on Instagram.                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                    … Continue reading Plum – The One Ayurvedic fruit you can have everyday

My Hair Mask Secrets

For hair growth and shiny hair, this is my go-to hair mask with a secret Ayurvedic ingredient!     Here is how to make it:   Soak 3 tablespoons of fenugreek seeds overnight and make a paste with a little water. Add a whole egg (you can also use flaxseeds as replacement, but egg is egg) Add 1 table spoon yoghurt Add half tablespoon hair oil of your choice (optional, if your hair is very dry)   Then add the secret ingredient!   Part your hair into smaller sections, first apply along the roots, over the scalp and then on the length of the hair.   Wondering what’s my secret ingredient? It’s licorice powder, and only 10g will do. Licorice is extremely good for hair growth, hair shine and also works an amazing cleanser for the scalp! Try this hair mask and let me know.. If you want to improve your hair health, you can take our skin and hair care program. You can also join our other 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.                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                    

Fruits for breakfast is not a good idea, Why ?

You might have seen many sources in the internet suggesting fruits for breakfast as part of a healthy diet. But Ayurveda has a different opinion.     Fruits for breakfast is not a good idea, Why ?       #1  Mornings are cold, dewy, and moist   Fruits are cold, moist, and slimy as well. Similarly, what is cold, moist, and slimy in our body? Kapha!   #2   Fruits are sweet, heavy and cold.   What is sweet, heavy and cold in our body? Kapha!   #3   6am to 10am is Kapha Kala   This is the time Kapha is at its peak – think excessive mucous, blocked nose, runny nose, and all upper respiratory tract symptoms.   #4 The Sun has just risen   Our digestive fire mimics the Sun; however, we do not have sharp digestion in the mornings.  Hence we may not be able to digest cold, sweet, heavy foods at this time.   what is a good breakfast? Anything warm, light and freshly cooked. Example, oatmeal, porridges, rice or chickpea flour, pancakes, stewed apples, green gram pancakes etc. These are not only light but also easy to digest.   When is the best time to have fruits?   Between 10am to 4pm (Pitta Kala) before or after a meal, but not with a meal. Trust me, if you do this, your gut will thank you!       Doctor Rekha is a 4th generation Ayurvedic Medicine Doctor (BAMS) living in between Dubai and India who has patients from around the globe who believes that the wisdom of Ayurveda can help everyone lead a happy, heathy and 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.                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                          … Continue reading Fruits for breakfast is not a good idea, Why ?

Dried ginger is a real hero, why ?

Ayurvedically, dried ginger is considered better than fresh ginger.   Qualities of dried ginger   #1 Vata Decreasing Fresh ginger increases Vata while dried ginger balances Vata. Hence, chewing fresh ginger or drinking fresh ginger tea for gas, bloating is not a great idea. Take dry ginger water instead.   #2 Great for Constipation Inspite of being absorbent (grahi) dry ginger is a mild laxative and great for constipation. If you find it difficult to pass bowels in the morning, drink a glass of dry ginger water.   #3 Non-drying Dried ginger has the property of ‘snigdha’ or non-drying. Hence, it is good for long-term use. But fresh ginger is drying (rooksha) and hence one should use only once in a while.   #4 Reduces Mucous Dried ginger is Kapha decreasing while fresh ginger increases Kapha. Hence, dry ginger water works great in seasonal flu, cold, cough and most upper respiratory tract disorders.   How to consume dry ginger? The easiest way to consume dry ginger is by boiling 2 glasses of water with 1 inch piece of dry ginger, reduce to 1 glass and drink up.   Doctor Rekha is a 4th generation Ayurvedic Medicine Doctor (BAMS) living in between Dubai and India who has patients from around the globe who believes that the wisdom of Ayurveda can help everyone lead a happy, heathy and 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.  You can also follow me on Instagram.                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                          … Continue reading Dried ginger is a real hero, why ?

Your bowel movement can say a lot about you

Did you know, according to Ayurveda, your bowel movements can say a lot about your digestion, health of body tissues, presence of parasites, prognosis of diseases and overall health. To understand this, let us first understand the concept of Ama. Poor digestion creates toxic waste called ama, leading to overall body imbalance. In modern terms, we can correlate this to poor gut health.   Bowel movement test for Ama   There is a bowel movement test for Ama. If you have Ama, consequently, your bowel sinks; however, if you don’t have it, your bowels will float. If you find out that you have Ama, you have an impaired digestive fire that needs to be fixed ASAP. Also, check out my other articles to know about how to improve your digestion.     Doctor Rekha is a 4th generation Ayurvedic Medicine Doctor (BAMS) living in between Dubai and India who has patients from around the globe who believes that, Ayurveda can help everyone lead a happy and healthy life. If you are suffering from any gut issues, you can take our Gut 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.                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                

Ayurveda Remedy for Kids’ Seasonal Cold and Cough

Respiratory infections in kids can be tackled easily with Ayurvedic medicines without the help of steroidal tablets, steroidal inhalers and toxic mucolytic medicines. One such mild medicine is Rajanyadi Churnam.   Rajani = Turmeric   This medicine has turmeric as its main ingredient. Other major ingredients, in addition, are pinewood and deodar, which, notably, have antiseptic properties. The brihati roots in it relieves chest congestion.   Uses   Helps relieve initial stages of cold and cough in kids, without letting it progress into wheezing and lung infection. Brings down fever. Also relieves colicky pain and diarrhea in babies.   How to consume?   1-3 grams can be mixed with honey or ghee and consumed after food once or twice daily. The dosage depends on the age of the baby. Consult a doctor for correct dosage and frequency.       Doctor Rekha is a 4th generation Ayurvedic Medicine Doctor (BAMS) living in between Dubai and India who has patients from around the globe who believes that the wisdom of Ayurveda can help everyone lead a happy, heathy and disease-free life. If your kids are suffering from any health issues, you can take our Child Care Program. You can also join our other 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.   You can also follow me on Instagram.                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                      

How water affects your digestion ?

Did you even know, without even realizing, how you drink water affects your digestion. Drinking excessive water ‘Atyambupana‘ is mentioned as one of the main causes for indigestion by Charaka Samhita. Then,   how to drink water?     Drinking sip by sip, do not chug down a whole bottle in one go. Drink 30 minutes before or after a meal. Warm water is always a better idea for good digestion.   Drinking tap water is not at all safe. Some children drink tap water by following the adults. There are many aqua purifiers in the market. Either use them or boil and drink it. You can add varieties of ayurvedic spices like jeera, cinamon, cardomom, karingali, ginger , sappanwood or East Indian rosewood, etc for variety of flavors. As these are ayurvedic, it has different benefits and safe for kids also.   Stay hydrated!   Doctor Rekha is a 4th generation Ayurvedic Medicine Doctor (BAMS) living in between Dubai and India who has patients from around the globe who believes that the wisdom of Ayurveda can help everyone lead a happy, heathy and 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.  You can also follow me on Instagram.                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                          

Why premature death happens to people?

Kala Mrityu, or premature death, is explained by Caraka. Causes of premature death are:   Excessive mental and physical strain:   Mental Strain: Mental Strain incorporate several conditions related to stress-anxiety, depression,                              chronic stress, and burnout. The modern pace of life, combined with high expectations and very little rest              time, is able to push individuals to the limit of mental exhaustion. Long-term exposure to these stressors              causes not only disturbances in the psychological arena but also physically, leading to a host of health                  problems.   Physical Stress: Conversely, physical stress involves overexertion via work, insufficient time for rest, and disregard for the needs of the human body. Human beings most often maintain their bodies beyond the normal limit, through intense physical work, lack of proper sleep, or starvation of the body from nutritional needs. Such unending physical duress diminishes the ability of the body to replenish strength, giving way to chronic diseases that impel death in man’s life.   Over-eating   Over eating generally is regarded as a harmless indulgence, a momentary pleasure in our fast-moving lives. However, such apparently innocuous behavior actually can have grave health consequences and even cause early deaths.            Linking Overeating to Premature Death.   Obesity: Heart disease, diabetes, and certain cancers are directly contributed to by obesity and the intake of excess calories, resulting in additional weight gain.   Cardiovascular Diseases: Overeating in general–essentially highly saturated foods containing fats, sugars, and salt–increases blood pressure, high cholesterol, and raises heart disease.   Type 2 Diabetes: Overeating may cause insulin resistance, considered one of the precursors of Type 2 diabetes and a major cause of early death.          How Overeating Affects Your Body ?   Metabolic Stress: Loading a great amount of food, especially of the wrong type, on the body results in stress on the metabolism, which culminates into fat gain and often accumulation around the organs.   Inflammation: Chronic overeating can result in inflammatory processes playing a causative role in diseases such as cancer and heart disease.   Insulin Resistance : The body can develop insulin resistance by consistently taking in more calories than required. Therein lies a greater risk of developing diabetes and all its complications.            Irregular meals   Regular meals serve more than a biological function to eliminate the pangs of hunger but provide a temporal guide to cue an internal physiological process known as the circadian rhythm that regulates digestion, metabolism, and endocrine activities. This rhythm may be disrupted by irregular meals, resulting in an upward spiral effect on poor health.               Irregular Meals and Their Impact on the Body   Metabolic Imbalances: The disturbance in the normal pattern promotes extreme highs and lows of blood sugar, which can lead to insulin resistance-a precursor to type 2 diabetes. It increases the chances of cardiovascular diseases.   Weight Gain and Obesity:  It triggers overeating later in the day because of skipping one’s meal or eating at odd hours, which could involve food that is not healthy. These in turn can give rise to weight gain and obesity.   Digestive Issues: The digestive system works on routine, and it works at its best when meals come in just as regularly. Otherwise, acid reflux and indigestion may lead to chronic digestive disorders, which in some cases may develop into IBS.    Mental Health Impact: There is an association between poor eating habits and heightened levels of stress, anxiety, and depression. Poor mental health usually make one adopt lifestyle behaviors that enhance the chances of early mortality.     Bad posture     We have always been told that good posture is important-when we sit at a desk, when we wait in line, when we lie in bed. Bad posture, however, can encompass more than just back pain and discomfort. New research suggests that having poor posture may lead to more serious health consequences than previously thought, including premature death.   Posture is the way one holds their body while sitting, standing, or moving. Good posture aligns the spine, muscles, and ligaments correctly so that the human body performs optimally. On the other hand, bad postures can cause physical problems like musculoskeletal problems, reduced lung function, and heart health issues.    Bad posture is not only a cosmetic problem but also can pose many serious threats to health if not taken care of. Being cognizant of the risk and proactive at working out your posture may make a great leap toward minimizing the possibility of chronic health problems that may shorten a person’s span of life. Small changes in daily habits, remember, sometimes have profound effects on long-term health.   Exposure to germs, poison, fire, wind, and accidents     In our daily life, we are surrounded by so many hazards that are likely to cause early deaths, unless they are handled properly or avoided. These germs and accidents-both invisible and sudden-might be lying in wait in places where we mightn’t notice their presence.   The Germs     Germs, including bacteria, viruses, and fungi, are everywhere and usually harmless. However, some types of pathogens can give very serious infections, and if untreated, the result will be untimely death. In the case of the COVID-19 pandemic, it has shown clearly how a viral infection can become a pandemic in global health.   The Poison     Poisonous exposures both accidental and deliberate, are among the leading causes of preventable deaths in the world. Modes of poisoning involve ingestion, inhalation, and respiration of different kinds of toxic chemicals, common house products, and certain plants.   The Fire     Fire is an essential tool but can be a killer force. Accidental fire can result in extreme burns, inhalation of smoke, and even death… Continue reading Why premature death happens to people?

Skin Diseases – The 7 Reasons

Kushta( Skin Diseases) Skin diseases are called ‘Kushta’ in Sanskrit. Charaka mentions the main causes of Kushta in Caraka Samhita Nidona Sthana.     Reason for Skin Diseases     #1 Eating hot & cold foods together in 1 meal. #2 Overuse of honey, fish, radish, etc. when you have low digestion. #3 Eating incompatible foods. #4 Exerting excessively physically, more than your strength. #5 Exposure to extreme heat. #6 Taking cold showers after exertion. #7 Excessive intake of heating foods. These are some lesser known reasons why skin diseases happen in the first place. Doctor Rekha is a 4th generation Ayurvedic Medicine Doctor (BAMS) living in between Dubai and India who has patients from around the globe who believes that the wisdom of Ayurveda can help everyone lead a happy, heathy and disease-free life. If you are suffering from any of these, you can take our skin and hair care program. You can also join our other 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.  You can also follow me on Instagram.                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                  

Rice Done Right !

I get asked this question a lot by my non-Indian patients. Here is the traditional Ayurvedic way of cooking rice. Rice is a medicine in Ayurveda. It is the lightest food for digestion and also the first food mentioned in Ayurveda. But, how to cook it ? Here’s a step by step for y’all.   Step 1: Soak rice for at least about an hour. I recommend Sona Masoori or Ambe Mohar varieties for everyday use.   Step 2: Boil Water You can take twice or thrice the quantity of rice.   Step 3: Add soaked rice to boiling water. Cook covered.   Step 4: Cook till bubbles. Once it bubbles, remove the cover and cook rice until it turns soft.   Step 5: Strain the excess water out. Enjoy with a side of daal and cooked vegetables.       Doctor Rekha is a 4th generation Ayurvedic Medicine Doctor (BAMS) living in between Dubai and India who has patients from around the globe who believes that the wisdom of Ayurveda can help everyone lead a happy, healthy and disease-free 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.  You can also follow me on Instagram.