diabetes Archives - Doctor Rekha

Ayurveda offers a treasure trove of remedies sourced from nature’s bounty. Among these botanical marvels stands Methi, commonly known as fenugreek, a humble herb that transcends its culinary applications to unveil various therapeutic properties. Historically, Methi has been cherished by Ayurvedic practitioners for its versatile benefits. It has been used in various traditional medicine systems around the world, proving its worth beyond just a kitchen ingredient. In this blog, let us delve into Methi’s therapeutic potential. Properties and Uses in Ayurveda References to Methi can be found in ancient Ayurvedic texts such as the Charaka Samhita and Sushruta Samhita. The texts emphasize the ability of the herb to balance bodily Doshas (energetic forces). They also highlight its benefits in promoting digestion and alleviating various ailments. Throughout history, Methi seeds, leaves and extracts have been used in traditional Ayurvedic formulations and as remedies. In Ayurveda, It is used to treat asthma, bronchitis, arthritis, digestive issues, skin disorders, male infertility issues, hormone disorders, type 2 diabetes, etc. Properties of Methi Methi, or Fenugreek, possesses distinct qualities according to Ayurveda that contribute to its therapeutic properties: Taste (Rasa) It is characterized by a bitter taste (Tikta Rasa), which is balanced by a slightly sweet aftertaste (Madhura Rasa). This combination of tastes contributes to its overall balancing effect on the body. Energy (Virya) People consider methi to have a heating potency (ushna virya) in terms of energy. Believers think that this warmth stimulates digestion and metabolism, benefiting certain digestive imbalances. Potency (Vipaka) Methi has a pungent post-digestive effect (Katu Vipaka), which means it transforms the digestive process and contributes to its overall therapeutic effects. Dosha Balancing Properties of Methi According to Ayurveda, Methi surprisingly exhibits properties that help balance all three Doshas: Vata Dosha Methi’s warming and grounding qualities help pacify Vata Dosha. It can help alleviate symptoms of excess Vata, such as dryness, coldness and nervousness. Pitta Dosha While Methi has a heating potency, its bitter taste helps cool and balance excess Pitta Dosha. It can soothe inflammation and support liver health, which are common concerns related to Pitta imbalance. Kapha Dosha Despite its heating energy, It’s bitter taste and pungent post-digestive effect help balance Kapha Dosha. It helps alleviate symptoms of excess Kapha, such as congestion, sluggishness and heaviness. Medicinal Uses In Ayurveda, It is highly versatile and is effective for the treatment of various ailments and imbalances. It improves the digestive fire (Agni), alleviates indigestion, and soothes gastrointestinal distress during digestion. It can also modulate blood sugar levels and lend hope to those grappling with diabetes, offering a natural adjunct to conventional therapies. Its expectorant and bronchodilator properties also relieve respiratory congestion and promote clear breathing. It also promotes healthy skin and hair, and supports female reproductive health, offering benefits during menstruation and lactation. Remedies Using Methi It serves as an excellent remedy for a variety of health conditions. Cholesterol Having powdered methi seeds with warm water or buttermilk helps reduce cholesterol levels. Diabetes Drinking water mixed with a combination of powdered methi seeds and turmeric helps keep your blood sugars under control for Type 2 diabetes. Digestive Issues Consuming a fine paste made of methi seeds soaked in water overnight as it is or combines in water helps relieve digestive problems, such as hyperacidity and gastritis. Gut Health Make a tea with fried methi seeds cooked in milk to boost your Agni and strengthen your intestines. Constipation Boil methi seeds in a cup of water to make a herbal tea. Have it when lukewarm along with half a spoon of ghee to relieve constipation and hemorrhoids. Lactation Have milk cooked with methi seeds soaked overnight to improve breast milk production in lactating mothers. Hairfall You can make a paste made of methi seeds soaked overnight and use it as a hair mask to prevent hairfall and boost hair growth. Even though It is an excellent remedy for different issues, it can have some mild side effects. That’s why you must avoid it if you have any bleeding disorders or diarrhea. Remember, one man’s medicine can be another man’s poison. Therefore, it’s best to seek the guidance of an Ayurvedic doctor before you choose to use it as a remedy. As we continue to explore the potential of natural remedies, Methi remains a shining example of the magical herbs that Ayurveda has to offer. Also read: Cholesterol Managing with Ayurveda 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 prevalence and rise in the number of people suffering from chronic health conditions globally has sharply grown. From autoimmune disorders and diabetes to obesity and arthritis, chronic conditions significantly affect the quality of life of those suffering. The growing number of people suffering from chronic disorders has placed a substantial strain on the healthcare systems and resources. The figures of deaths in India and across the world accounted for by diabetes, chronic respiratory diseases, cancers, and cardiovascular diseases are alarming. These NCDs (non-communicable diseases) are a leading cause of death. Obesity is a global endemic that has increased the instances of heart disease, cancer and diabetes. Recently, many have turned to Ayurveda to address this health crisis mainly because of its distinctive perspective of balancing the body’s doshas and integrating it with simple lifestyle practices. Ayurveda as a holistic therapy Ayurveda is a healing system that encompasses the body, mind, and spirit. It emphasizes lifestyle management to treat health conditions. The system of medicines provides a personalized approach to address the imbalances. When the Vata, Pitta and Kapha Doshas are not in balance, the body can develop chronic illness. Healing this imbalance involves detoxification, improvement in digestion and stress reduction strategies. A person with a Vata imbalance can have warm and moist foods while a person with a Pitta imbalance can have cooling and calming foods. Chronic health conditions are the result of internal and external factors that result in toxin (Ama) build-up and reduced digestive fire (Agni) according to Ayurveda. Physiological influences, genetic predispositions and environmental factors contribute to the development of chronic conditions. Chronic illness is attributed to a lack of energy. Improper lifestyle habits can cause toxins to build up. What are chronic health conditions? Let us understand chronic illnesses – those that last a long time, often a lifetime. They are most often autoimmune like neurological conditions, chronic pain and metabolic imbalances. Chronic conditions differ from acute conditions as their symptoms are persistent leaving the patient in pain, emotional pressure and social reclusiveness. Globally, it is noticed that chronic conditions are a major issue as they are prolonged and require continual medical attention. Ayurveda has been effective in treating chronic health conditions at a nascent stage and they can be prevented from worsening. It goes to the root of a problem and treats it rather than suppressing the symptoms. Today’s fast-paced life, dietary and activity changes, have given rise to increasing prevalence of hypertension and cardiovascular disease. Obesity and smoking are associated with these conditions. The incidences of diabetes have also sharply risen. Such chronic health conditions have to be managed with a strict diet lest it affect other organs like the eyes, heart, nerves and kidneys. An early diagnosis and treatment therapy can manage arthritis, which is an autoimmune condition. Rheumatoid arthritis results in inflamed joints and degenerated joint cartilage. Patients suffering from this chronic condition suffer swelling and pain resulting in reduced joint mobility. Autoimmune Diseases Autoimmune diseases are mostly treated with immunosuppressive drugs to reduce the symptoms. However, as per Ayurveda, the gut and lifestyle will need rectification to address the malfunctioning immune system. Various herbs such as Maricha, Shunthi, Saindhav Lavan, Pippali and Haritaki can reduce the toxin build-up. Ayurvedic herbs such as Vasa, Guggulu, Neem, Guduchi and Patola Patra help rectify metabolism. It is important to boost Ojas to provide the immune system with nourishment. The immune system is then corrected by calming and nourishing it. Asthma Asthmatic patients suffer from recurrent bouts of wheezing and breathlessness. Asthma is usually associated with irritants and allergens. While doctors prescribe steroids and inhalers to patients, they experience a reduced quality of life. Ayurveda incorporates herbs like cardamom, licorice, Tulsi, Pippali, cinnamon and Vasaka to relieve airway blockage and congestion. Incorporating herbal teas, warm soups and cooked vegetables can also help. It’s also important to follow regular mealtimes. Avoid smoke, pollution, pollen and dust to avoid triggers. Certain yoga postures and pranayama can strengthen respiratory muscles and open the chest. Chronic Gut Issues Treating gut-related and digestive issues involves the incorporation of a wholesome diet along with a healthy daily routine, exercise and medicines (if necessary). The diet aligns with the body constitution (Prakriti), health conditions and Dosha imbalances. Ayurvedic treatments to treat chronic conditions Following Ayurvedic practices can significantly reduce symptoms and prevent disease progression. Initially, Ayurvedic treatments begin with identifying the Dosha (body energy) imbalance in the body. With therapies, oils and diet correction, Ayurveda helps treat anti-inflammatory conditions to manage chronic health conditions. Panchakarma Panchakarma is a detoxification therapy that helps remove toxins and rejuvenate the body. This five-pronged specialized treatment encompasses therapeutic oil enemas (Basti), massage with herbal oils (Abhyanga), herbal steam practice (Swedana), purgation (Virechana), and Nasya (nasal medication). Panchkarma prevents tissue damage and prevents recurrence of autoimmune disorders. Lifestyle routines The Ayurvedic regimen involves Dinacharya (daily routine) and Ritucharya (seasonal regimen). These encompass: Waking up before sunrise Tongue scraping and oil pulling Abhyanga or self-massage Yoga Breathing exercises (pranayama) Meditation Retiring early at night Following a routine consistently helps strengthen the mind-body connection and lower stress levels. Benefits of following an Ayurvedic way of life Ayurveda emphasizes mindful eating. You should avoid overeating and distractions during mealtimes. One can, for instance, modify their lifestyle and diet according to the season and, moreover, their prakriti. The usage of oils helps in lubricating joints and can assist those suffering from arthritis. Good sleep hygiene can also go a long way in keeping several chronic conditions at bay. Meditative practices help strengthen the mind-body connection and lower stress levels. A calm mind, therefore, can handle the stresses associated with the fast-paced lifestyle of today. Also read: Ayurvedic recipe for gut – the mid-morning drink If you are struggling with any health issues, you… Continue reading Chronic Health Managing With Ayurveda

I discovered Himalayan birch, also known as Bhojpatra or Bhurja, during my recent trip to Kashmir. The tree holds so much importance in Ayurveda, owing to its amazing properties! What is Himalayan birch? The perennial Himalayan birch (Betula utilis) is a member of the Betulaceae family of trees.It grows in neutral, essential and acidic soils. Originally from the Himalayas, the tree is currently found in China, Bhutan, Tajikistan, Afghanistan, India, Uzbekistan, Kyrgyzstan, Nepal, Kazakhstan and Pakistan. People used it for writing in the past. Because of its anti-dandruff properties, it also has cosmetic applications. The therapeutic properties of Himalayan birch are numerous, and it is a unique source of phytochemical substances. Medicinal properties Bhojpatra has many medicinal properties that make it an ingredient in Ayurvedic medicines. It belongs to a group of herbs that are proven to be anti-diabetic. The bark of the tree is fragile and lightweight, like paper and is used in making medicines to reduce diabetes. One of the most important Ayurvedic medicines made with this herb is Ayaskriti. It also treats convulsions, bleeding, diarrhea, wound cleaning, earaches, and mental illnesses. Additional properties People in the past also utilized the bark of Himalayan birch to make paper. Kalidasa, the classical Sanskrit author, reportedly wrote his scriptures on specially prepared thin sheets from the bark of this tree. People still use it today as a paper for writing mantras and even wear it as protection in some parts of India. The Himalayas boast a great wealth of medicinal plants, but it is also sad to know that many of these species now face threats, and loggers, collectors, and climate change have categorized Himalayan birch as “critically endangered.” Himalayan birch is well-known for its therapeutic and helpful properties in Ayurveda. People know that they have antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and anti-cancer properties and mainly use them to make ayurvedic medicine for diabetes. There are a lot more properties of this tree. But the sad part is it is reducing in count due to climatic change and other environmental factors. Doctor Rekha is a 4th generation Ayurvedic Medicine Doctor (BAMS) and also one of the best ayurvedic doctor in trivandrum city, 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.

According to Ayurveda, there are two main causes of Type 2 diabetes – Aasya Sukha and Swapna Sukha. In Sanskrit, Aasya means mouth, Swapna means sleeping/dreaming/sedentary life and Sukha means happiness/ecstasy/feeling good. How to diagnose Type 2 diabetes? The most common way to diagnose Type 2 diabetes was just through the symptoms. Most people with diabetes would often complain of the following symptoms: Excessive urination Excessive thirst Excessive hunger However, this was a thing of the past. 80% of the people who come to me today do not have any symptoms. Most often, they wouldn’t even know if they have diabetes unless they take a blood test. Types of blood tests to diagnose diabetes Here are two of the most basic blood tests you can do to diagnose diabetes: Hba1c Hba1c calculates your average blood sugar levels over the last 3 months. You do not need to fast for this test. If your Hba1c is more than 6.4%, you have diabetes and if your Hba1c levels are between 5.7% and 6.4%, you are prediabetic. Fasting blood sugar You need to fast (you can have water) for 8 hours before you take this test. You have diabetes if your fasting blood sugar is higher than 126 mg/dl. If it is between 100 and 126 mg/dl, it indicates prediabetes; therefore, one should consider making lifestyle changes. Ways to keep your diabetes under control Here are two tips that will help, in addition, keep your diabetes under control: Nishamalaki If you are a prediabetic, have “nishamalaki” every day. Nisha” means turmeric, and “Amalaki,” on the other hand, means Amla or Indian Gooseberry. Here’s how you can prepare Nishamalaki: First, crush 2 amla and make a paste; then, add 2 pinches of turmeric to it. Mix and consume after breakfast. Early dinner If you are a diabetic, then try to have an early dinner. It is advisable; therefore, not to have dinner after 6 – 6:30 pm. In the evening, however, your digestive fire (Agni) is the lowest. When you have a heavy meal after sunset, a part of it does not get digested and gets converted into undigested toxic waste (Ama) in your system. Ama and Kapha have the same properties. When Ama increases, Kapha increases. Diabetes is primarily caused due to an increase in Kapha. Therefore, eating an early, light dinner is the best thing for diabetes! Can you reverse diabetes? Yes, you can! With the help of Ayurveda. If diabetes is diagnosed within 5 years of its onset, you are in the “golden period” to reverse diabetes easily with an Ayurvedic diet and herbs. After 5 to 10 years, if untreated or undiagnosed, your body will start showing complications due to diabetes, eventually affecting the nerves, kidneys, eyes, etc. At this stage, Ayurveda can still help you reverse diabetes, but with some effort. However, the earlier you diagnose diabetes and the earlier the treatment, the better and faster the results. Even after doing everything, if your sugar levels are not coming under control, you may need individualised treatment with simple and mild herbs depending upon your body conditions. If you still think diabetes (Type 2) is “deadly”, not reversible and you will have to live with it forever, check out my three-month Type 2 diabetes reversal 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.

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Tag: diabetes

Methi (Fenugreek) Uses in Ayurveda

Chronic Health Managing With Ayurveda

Himalayan Birch And Its Medicinal Benefits

Type 2 Diabetes ? Understanding the Diagnostic Journey

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