Holistic Healing in Ayurveda – The Ancient Science of Total Health

Ayurveda is often described as a “holistic” system of medicine.       But what does it mean for a medical system to be holistic, and why is Ayurveda considered one?      Here’s the answer.      Ayurveda teaches us to look at things from a macro level. Conversely, focusing too narrowly may often lead us to wrong conclusions.    Imagine asking a person who has never seen an elephant, for instance, to describe how an elephant looks by showing its trunk.  He might say that the elephant looks like a thick snake.     This is what happens when you don’t view things on a broader scale.      Treating the symptoms is of little use when you do not treat the whole person. This is why, in Ayurveda, we treat the whole person and not isolated symptoms.  Ayurveda looks at the whole person; in addition, it considers the link between their physical, mental, and emotional well-being.      Furthermore, Ayurveda recognizes that the human body and mind are connected to the environment and, in addition, the universe.” The system of medicine defines health as not merely the absence of disease, but a state of harmony and balance in the body, mind, and spirit.       Factors that influence the holistic state of well-being      To achieve this holistic state of well-being, Ayurveda, therefore, considers various factors that, in turn, influence an individual’s health.      Doshas   There are three Doshas (biophysical energies) – Vata, Pitta, and Kapha that are present in everyone but in varying proportions.  Understanding one’s unique dosha constitution and imbalances is, therefore, essential for diagnosis and treatment.       Diet and nutrition   In Ayurveda, food is seen as medicine. What we eat affects not only our physical health but also our mental and emotional well-being. A diet tailored to an individual’s body type (Prakriti), health conditions, and other factors, therefore, helps a person heal.     Lifestyle and daily routines   Ayurveda emphasizes the importance of daily routines and lifestyle choices. From sleep patterns to exercise, Ayurveda offers guidelines to maintain balance. By aligning daily activities with natural rhythms and considering one’s constitution, Ayurveda promotes overall health and well-being.       Medicines Ayurveda utilizes a vast array of herbs and natural remedies to treat various health conditions. In addition, practitioners recommend herbal preparations based on an individual’s Dosha and specific imbalances.     Yoga and meditation   Yoga and meditation have a huge role to play in promoting physical health; on the other hand, they also significantly contribute to mental health. These practices, therefore, help in reducing stress, improving flexibility, and aligning the body and mind; consequently, these elements are essential for holistic well-being.      Ayurveda acknowledges that individuals are unique and that there is no one-size-fits-all approach to health and well-being.  If a person is suffering from health conditions, Ayurvedic treatment, therefore, involves diagnosing and treating the root cause. Furthermore, based on the diagnosis, all the above-mentioned factors are consequently considered to help the person heal.    That is why Ayurveda is called a “holistic” system of medicine.   Want to heal with Ayurveda? Book a consultation with me today!   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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Have you tried coconut sprouts ?

I have always been fascinated by the coconut tree! It is considered the “tree of life” by many cultures around the world. Coconut trees provide so many different products and is a staple food in many tropical regions. One of the lesser-known parts of the coconut tree is the coconut sprouts. People often overlook this delicious and nutritious delicacy. Coconut sprouts, also known as coconut hearts or palm hearts, are the inner core of the coconut tree’s growing tip. People usually harvest them before the tree has a chance to fully mature, typically when the tree is around three years old. The sprouts are tender and succulent, with a mild flavour that is similar to asparagus or artichokes. One of the best things about coconut sprouts is their nutritional value. They are low in calories but high in fibre, vitamins, and minerals, including potassium, vitamin C, vitamin B6 and more. Also being a good source of antioxidants, they help protect against cellular damage and disease.   Ways to prepare coconut sprouts   There are many different ways to prepare coconut sprouts. You can eat them raw, slice and add them to salads or sandwiches, or cook and use them in a variety of dishes. One of my favourite ways to enjoy coconut sprouts is to sauté them with garlic and olive oil. Then serve them as a side dish or add them to a stir-fry. One can also pickle, can, or dry them and use them in soups, stews, and other recipes.   Medicinal properties   In addition to their nutritional and culinary benefits, coconut sprouts also have some medicinal properties. They help regulate blood sugar levels, lower cholesterol and boost the immune system. They also have a calming effect on the nervous system and help relieve stress and anxiety.   Despite their many benefits, coconut sprouts are not widely known or available outside of tropical regions. This is partly because they are a relatively rare and delicate crop. And partly because they are not as well-known or popular as other parts of the coconut tree. However, there is growing interest in them and their potential as a sustainable and healthy food source. As someone who has grown up around coconut trees and eaten coconut sprouts many times, I feel lucky to have access to this delicious and nutritious delicacy. I believe that more people should learn about and appreciate their many benefits – both for their health and for the environment. By promoting coconut sprouts and other underutilized crops, we can help diversify our diets and support more sustainable and resilient food systems.   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 Have you tried coconut sprouts ?

Why Ash Gourd Juice is Great for the Mind?

If your mind is like a monkey jumping from one thought to other, then Ayurveda has a remedy for you. Sushruta – one of the three main authors of Ayurveda explains a simple remedy with ash gourd to calm your mind. The ancient ayurvedic remedy known as ash gourd, also called winter melon, recognizes for its calming benefits. It helps to reduce stress and anxiety levels and improves mental clarity. This is even prescribed as a medicine for conditions like psychosis You can use this simple recipe for the ultimate calming effect on your mind. Blend the ash gourd after boiling it in water and add a small quantity of Mishri (rock sugar). Consume a small portion of this juice – not more than 30ml after breakfast by around 11:00 am daily. However, experts advise not to consume this on an empty stomach as it may adversely affect your physical well-being.   Ash Gourd and Doshas     Ash gourd can subside Vata and Pitta Dosha in the body and has a very cooling potency. However, people having underlying issues like colds, asthma, and sinusitis should take care while taking it due to its cooling properties. Asian cuisine traditionally uses the nutrient-dense vegetable for its medicinal properties. Ash gourd is rich in vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C, potassium, and magnesium. It also contains a unique type of fiber called pectin, which has been shown to promote gut health and boost immunity. It  also helps improve digestion and promote healthy weight loss. Also it helps in treating acid reflux, bleeding disorders and constipation problems. It  also acts as an aphrodisiac, which increases sexual potency and improves your sexual health. With its versatile use in Ayurvedic medicine, ash gourd can be a great choice for anyone looking for natural ways to bring more balance and peace into their lives.   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 I became an Ayurvedic Doctor?

As a full-time ayurvedic doctor, I pack my days from 6 am to 8 pm. Beyond patient consultations, my responsibilities include team meetings, product and medicine supervision, and creating content about Ayurveda.  Despite my busy schedule, I make it a point to remain active on social media. Here’s why.  Right Information First and foremost, I believe that the choices we make in life should stem from awareness rather than ignorance. My ultimate goal, dream or vision is to bring global acceptance to Ayurveda.  Some individuals write books, some deliver talks, and I create content – it’s as simple as that.  Consider this: There’s no money to be made if everyone enjoys good health. The real money lies in selling sickness. The medical, pharmaceutical, and diagnostics industries, consequently, all thrive on this unfortunate reality! The beauty of Ayurveda, unlike other medical systems, is that it not only talks about treating diseases, but also an equally bigger wing – prevention. And let me ask you this: Is there much money to be made from prevention? No, there isn’t.  That’s precisely why large corporate companies around the world conduct wellness programs and even have dedicated wellness departments that hold wellness talks and the like to raise awareness about prevention. Even if it looks like the act of engaging employees, the hidden agenda is also to help insurance premiums. It’s a great example – there’s no fortune in wellness, only in illness. Ayurveda, on the other hand, as a system of medicine, beautifully embodies the concept of prevention.  Coming back to the financial aspect of sickness, the modern pharmaceutical and diagnostics industries heavily rely on medical professionals and their practices. Trust me when I say that numerous pharmaceutical companies and diagnostic labs reach out to me, asking me to refer their lab tests and medicines for my patients.  The perks offered can be quite enticing, in fact, they come with promises of international travel and more.  We have all been wired subconsciously by marketing strategies. For instance, let’s talk about the culture of blood tests. Even if you’re dealing with a specific health condition, it’s entirely ethical, therefore, for a doctor to recommend relevant tests.  These tests, therefore, aid in accurate diagnosis and, in turn, help plan the most suitable treatment.  This is a standard practice and I do it too.  That’s doing blood tests for diagnosing diseases. That’s a thing.  But what about running blood tests to diagnose health itself? I’m not just talking about blood tests; I’m referring to DNA tests, food intolerance tests, food allergy tests and countless others. Even children as young as 3 or 4 years old undergo such tests – all in the name of diagnosing health. I understand that not everyone may agree with what I’m saying and that’s okay – that’s how marketing has deeply ingrained certain beliefs and preferences within our minds.  People love to be comfortable. We’re surrounded by every possible convenience to make our lives comfortable. People prefer to hear what makes them comfortable. They gravitate toward familiar narratives. But when someone presents ideas that challenge their preconceptions, they get uncomfortable. Here is a lot of misinformation or programmed information around. I aim to bring your awareness, therefore, by giving you the right information.  Since what I share may differ from what you’re accustomed to hearing, it may make you uncomfortable. But that “uncomfortableness” is even a word, then it  will challenge you and make you think.  That’s why I exist for you – to offer knowledge about Ayurveda and health that is real, practical and authentic.   As I mentioned at the beginning, I firmly believe that the health choices we make should be based on awareness rather than ignorance.  And for that very reason, I am here for 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.                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                        … Continue reading Why I became an Ayurvedic Doctor?

Why do you get diseases?

While we readily acknowledge and celebrate birth, the topics of diseases and death often evoke fear and discomfort. Similar to birth, in addition, death and diseases are inevitable aspects of life. While death is unavoidable, you can take preventive measures to resist one of the major causes of it – diseases!   Why do you get diseases?   Caraka Samhita mentions 5 reasons why diseases are caused.     Mithya Ahara Vihara Adopting an unhealthy diet and sedentary lifestyle can contribute to the development of chronic diseases, such as diabetes and hypertension, commonly referred to as “lifestyle diseases.     Asathmya Indriyatha Samyoga Misuse of the senses can cause imbalance of the body and the mind, leading to the accumulation of toxins (Ama) in the body.     Karma   According to Ayurveda, Karma refers to actions and their outcomes, including the diseases one experiences. They are often a result of our past actions.     Kaala   With the passage of time, the body naturally weakens, its immune system becomes less effective and it becomes more susceptible to various diseases.     Prajnaparadha   Ayurveda considers Prajnapradha – an offense against wisdom – as the main cause of all diseases; therefore, it emphasizes the importance of maintaining mental clarity and insight. In life, where there is hope, there is also despair. Just as normalcy coexists with adversity, similarly, birth accompanies death and disease. While there are certain aspects beyond our control, there are also elements that we have complete control over. It is within our power to take meaningful actions, right at this moment. I will cite an example: You may not be able to naturally reverse the grey hair or that wrinkle that appears after 30 to how it looked when you were 16. But we can do a daily Abhyanga to keep up the youth of skin and hair! The key is to take small steps and approach life one day at a time, striving to live a life free from disease through every means available to us.   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.