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Top 5 Ayurvedic Treatments in Karkidaka Chikitsa

What is Karkidaka Chikitsa ? Rainfall is a welcome respite from high temperatures, being quite cool for most of July-September. In the Malayalam calendar, Karkidaka – the last month of the year falls during the monsoon season . It is considered as the month of poverty and diseases. Your immunity will be at the lowest during this month. And this is when Karkidaka Chikitsa – an exclusive Ayurvedic therapy – plays its part. Karkidaka chikitsa is also known as Monsoon treatment in ayurveda, is a therapeutic style originated in the Kerala’s traditional healing practices. Karkidaka Chikitsa helps improve your immunity and physical and mental strength. It also helps remove toxins from your body and bring back a healthy, rejuvenated you! We will look into the depths of Karkidaka Chikitsa exploring its essence and benefits. The 5 Ayurvedic treatments of Karkidaka Chikitsa Abhyanga (Oil Massage) Abhyanga is a traditional Ayurvedic oil massage practice that uses warm herbal oils on the entire body. Benefits of Abhyanga Improved Blood Circulation: Abhyanga helps enhance blood circulation in the body. Detox the Body: Abhyanga helps in loosening and liquefying body toxins and thereby makes excretion easier. Helps Your Skin Glow: Regular use of oil on the skin helps to moisturise and soften your skin giving it a natural, healthy glow. Decrease Stress: As Abhyanga relaxes your body and mind, it reduces stress. How to Do Abhyanga? Take some oil in your palm and apply it gently on the top of your head – at the bregma. Then, use your fingers to massage the scalp (you can also choose to massage the oil along the length of your hair.) Then, massage your face. Follow by massaging your hands, feet, and the rest of your body. Use gentle, circular motions over joints, but with long strokes on limbs for the self-Abhyanga session at home. Wash it off with warm water after 20 minutes by taking a shower. Swedana Swedana or sudation therapy is a part of Panchakarma preparation. There are 13 types of Swedana and in each type, sweat is induced using different methods. Benefits of Swedana Reduces Toxins: Swedana opens pores in the skin to help release toxins. Relieves Muscle Tension: The warm experience relaxes your muscles. Detoxification: Sweating helps remove toxins. Promotes Respiratory Health: The aroma from herbal steam helps clear sinus passageways and restore easy breathing. How to Do Swedana? You can get it done at an Ayurvedic hospital under the supervision of a qualified Ayurvedic doctor. Panchakarma Panchakarma is a full body cleansing therapy that helps detoxify the body and bring back the balance of the Doshas . It includes five types of Ayurvedic treatments – Vamana (emesis), Virechana (purgation), Basti(enema), Nasya(nasal administration) and Rakta Mokshan (blood purification). Benefits of Panchakarma Detoxification: Panchakarma enables deep cleansing, removing toxins found in tissues and deeply embedded throughout the body. Balances Doshas: This therapy balances Vata, Pitta and Kapha doshas of the body. Improves Digestion: Panchakarma improves the digestive fire (Agni) in the body hence it improves digestion and assimilation of nutrients. Improves immunity: When Panchakarma flushes out all toxins in the body, it helps to boost overall immune strength and function. How to Undergo Panchakarma? Panchakarma therapy is subject to the constitution and other health conditions of a person. So, it is best to have the treatment under the guidance of a qualified doctor. Nasya Nasya is the process in which oil is instilled via the nasal route. It is especially helpful in the monsoon as it protects us from recurring respiratory issues. Benefits of Nasya Clears Sinus: Nasya can clear congestion and sinus. Boosts respiratory health: It enhances the general function of your respiratory system to a great extent and relieves you from allergies, colds, etc. Great mental health: Nasya helps to obtain mental clarity and also cuts down the recurrence of headaches or migraines. Dosha balancing: It also helps balance the Vata and Kapha Doshas. How to Do Nasya? I recommend using Nasya Oil and Steaming Oil to do Nasya. Massage your face, neck and chest with Steaming Oil while applying slight pressure on sinus areas. Now, apply steam on your face, neck and chest, while covering your eyes using a blindfold. Lie back with your face raised upwards. Now, apply 2 drops of Nasya Oil in each nostril. Hold the position until you feel the oil enter your nasal cavity. The next step is very important – spit out the mucus. Rejuvenation Therapy (Rasayana) This method often involves the use of particular herbs and adapting to dietary and seasonal changes to promote longevity and slow down the ageing process. Benefits of Rasayana Strengthens Immunity: Herbs, such as Ashwagandha, Amalaki and Shatavari boost immunity. Higher energy levels: This therapy Increases your overall metabolism which in turn helps decrease fatigue. Enhances Memory: Rasayana provides mental clarity by improving brain function. Brings Good Health: Consuming Rasayana herbs improves overall health. How to Incorporate Rasayana Add Rasayana herbs to your diet in the form of powders, capsules and herbal tea only according to the advice of a qualified Ayurvedic practitioner. Eat a well-balanced diet full of fresh fruits and vegetables, whole grains, and nuts. During Karkidaka month, Ayurveda hospitals and clinics in Kerala offer Karkidaka Chikitsa. It is an Ayurvedic therapy that includes a combination of Ayurvedic treatments and diet, especially of medicated rice gruel. This treatment is great for boosting your immunity and detoxifying your body.

The Power of Ayurvedic Diet

According to Ayurveda, food is medicine. It not only provides you energy to sustain, but it also heals you. I am someone who gives importance to diet. An Ayurvedic diet is a major part of my treatment plan for my patients for all health conditions. 80% of my treatment involves food and the rest 20% involves medicines. If you know me, you might have seen me talking about gut health all the time. Poor gut health is the root cause of all diseases. So, the best way to have a balanced gut health is to have foods that are suitable for you. Ayurveda believes that each person is unique. That’s why each of my patients is given a personalized diet plan tailored to suit their body type (Prakriti), Dosha imbalances and health conditions. In this blog, let us explore more about the power of Ayurvedic nutrition. Understanding Ayurvedic Nutrition Ayurveda defines good health (as mentioned in Sushruta Samhita) as follows: “Sama Dosha Sama Agnischa Sama Dhatu Mala Kriyaaha Prasanna Atma Indriya Manaha Swastha Iti Abhidheeyate” A person is in good health when their Doshas, Agni, Dhatus (body tissues) and Mala (waste products) are in balance. Also, the Mana (mind), Indriyas (sense organs) and Atma (soul) of the person must be in a pleasant state. And for all these to be in balance, food plays an important role. Food, when not digested, turns into Ama (toxins). The accumulation of Ama in the body causes imbalances in your Agni and Doshas, leading to diseases. That’s why it is important to have light, digestible foods that suit you. Ayurveda emphasizes the significance of consuming locally sourced and seasonal foods. It’s crucial to adjust your diet to accommodate changes in weather and seasons. This helps keep your dominant Doshas in check and boost your immunity according to the season. Foods based on your Doshas Each person has a unique constitution of the three Doshas, out of which one or two may be predominant. So, it is important to eat foods that help balance out your predominant Doshas. You can consult an Ayurvedic doctor to figure out your Prakrit as well as Dosha imbalances and to guide you regarding your diet. Vata Dosha Vata Dosha is associated with the characteristics of air and space. This Dosha governs movement, creativity and communication. Vata people are full of energy, possess great creativity and have quick-thinking abilities. Imbalanced Vata can result in feelings of anxiety, fidgetiness and difficulties with digestion. Foods to balance Vata: Hot and prepared foods, such as soups, thick stews and vegetables cooked by steaming. Healthy fats, like ghee, avocado and sesame oil. Basic spices, such as cumin, ginger and cinnamon. Pitta Dosha Pitta Dosha is the combination of fire and water in the body. It regulates the body’s energy usage and the process of breaking down food for energy. Pitta people tend to be passionate, committed and able to maintain their focus on objectives. An imbalance in Pitta may manifest as irritability, inflammation and digestive issues. Foods to balance Pitta: Cooling foods like Cucumber, min, and coconut. Foods with robust and intense tastes, such as ungent leafy greens and fenugreek. Avoid overindulging in extremely spicy, sour or fried foods. Kapha Dosha Kapha Dosha, resembling the elements of earth and water, provides the body with solidity, power and hydration. Individuals who possess a robust Kapha constitution typically exhibit composure, compassion and willingness to assist others. Excessive Kapha can result in feelings of fatigue, weight gain and congestion. Foods to balance Kapha: Warm and spicy foods, such as red peppers, garlic, and ginger are great. Leafy greens, beans and quinoa are examples of foods that are not heavy and do not leave you feeling overly satiated. Limit your consumption of dairy and high-fat foods. Foods that promote healing Ayurveda categorizes foods based on their taste (Rasa), potency Virya), and post-digestive effect (Vipaka). Incorporating the six tastes – sweet (Madhura), sour (Amla), salty (Lavana), bitter (Tikta), pungent (Katu) and astringent (Kashaya) – ensures a well-rounded diet that satisfies the body’s needs and promotes healing. Many everyday ingredients possess remarkable healing properties, according to Ayurveda. Turmeric, for instance, is revered for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, making it a staple in Ayurvedic cuisine. Other examples include ginger, cilantro, and cumin, each offering unique health benefits. To reset gut health, emphasis is placed on easily digestible foods such as cooked vegetables, whole grains like basmati rice, and nourishing soups. Ayurvedic nutrition extends beyond physical health to encompass mental and spiritual well-being. Therefore, have foods like almonds, saffron, and ghee that help nourish the mind and enhance spiritual awareness. Foods based on seasons According to Ayurveda, there are 7 seasons (Ritu) – Vasanta Ritu (spring), Greeshma Ritu (summer), Varsha Ritu (monsoon), Sharad Ritu (autumn), Hemanta Ritu (late autumn or pre-winter) and Shishira Ritu (winter). Seasonal changes affect your body and bring about imbalances in your Doshas and Agni. So, it is important to eat accordingly. During Vasanta Ritu, consume dry (Ruksa) and cold (Sheeta) foods. You can have foods with Madhura (sweet) taste during Greeshma Ritu. Foods with Lavana Rasa are the best for Varsha Ritu. During Sharad Ritu, have dry and cold foods with Madhura, Tikta and Kashaya Rasas. Snigdha (unctuous) and Ushna (hot) foods are best suited for Hemanta and Shishira Ritu. Ayurvedic principles of eating Here are the 10 principles of eating (Ahara vidhi vidhana) recommended by Ayurveda: Ushnamashneeyat: Eat warm food. Snigdhamashneeyat: Eat unctuous food (not dry). Matravadashneeyat: Eat the right quantity. Jeerneashneeyat: Eat food only after the previous meal gets digested. Viryaavairudhamashneeyat: Eat compatible foods. Ishtadeshe ishtasarvopakaramashneeyat: Eat food in a good place with the right equipment. Naativilambitamashneeyat: Do not eat slowly. Naatidruthamashneeyat: Do not eat fast. Ajalpana ahsana tanmana bhunjeeta: Do not laugh or talk while eating. Atmanamabhisamikshya, samyak bhunjeeta tanmana bhunjeeta: Eat according to your constitution (Prakriti). Ayurvedic nutrition offers a holistic approach… Continue reading The Power of Ayurvedic Diet

Viruddha Ahara – 5 combinations with milk you must avoid

Ayurveda emphasises on the unique nutritional benefits of milk. Properly digesting milk contributes to maintaining a healthy body and emotional balance while also aiding in the equilibrium of Doshas. It is considered one of the most essential foods for enhancing Ojus (vitality). A quick brief into what Ojus is. It is a unique substance created by the body through efficient digestion in Ayurveda. It is believed that Ojus bestows us with energy, immunity from diseases, happiness, and a sense of fulfilment. Therefore, it is crucial to consume milk regularly, especially for those who don’t eat non-vegetarian food. But there are some food combinations that, when consumed with milk, can negatively affect the body. It is also called Viruddha Ahara. An incompatible diet or Viruddha Anna was an important issue talked about by ancient Ayurveda practitioners. According to Ayurveda, it is believed to cause many body problems. People who eat conflicting foods are likely to have many health problems. It is imperative to understand how eating incompatible foods can cause a lot of health problems. How different foods can affect each other and cause illness According to Caraka Samhita – one of the ancient Ayurvedic texts, certain types of food can disrupt the body’s metabolism and the process of tissue formation. These are called incompatible foods. Eating food in the wrong way – that is combining foods that don’t go together, processing the food in the wrong way, eating too much or too little of it, eating it at the wrong time of day or eating it in the wrong season can also affect your gut health. The way different foods interact with each other can differ. Many times, combining certain foods is fine, but it is good to be aware of possible interactions. The word Viruddha means the opposite. It seems like eating certain foods together can affect how they taste. Different characteristics Opposite activities to the body’s cells. It could have adverse effects on the body if processed in a specific manner. It might cause harmful effects if used together in the wrong amount. It might cause problems if taken at the wrong time. Having Viruddha Ahara can cause inflammation in the body at a molecular level. Ancient Ayurvedic texts like Caraka Samhita and Sushruta Samhita mention different types of food incompatibilities. Eating certain food combinations can be bad for your body. It has the potential to impact your immune system, cell functioning, growth hormone levels, and dehydroepiandrosterone sulphate (DHEAS) hormone. Incompatible food combinations Here are some food combinations that are not compatible. Milk + Jaggery Jaggery is a common substitute for sugar in milk for many individuals. While it may seem like a good option, in Ayurveda, combining jaggery with milk is considered harmful to the digestive system. This has the potential to irritate your stomach. You may have seen influencers recommending jaggery as a sugar replacement for tea. Ayurvedically, this combination increases Pitta and Kapha. Use rock sugar (mishri) instead. Rock sugar, referred to as Mishri in Hindi, is a small, crystal, unprocessed variety of sugar. This nutritious sweet, known as Bhura sugar or Khand in various regions, is created by cooking sugarcane juice until it solidifies. It is a suitable replacement for regular sugar or jaggery. Mishri is formulated to be more easily digested and provides a cooling sensation to the body due to its unique crystallization process. After a delicious meal, it’s common for us to consume rock sugar and fennel to aid in digestion. It also helps to freshen your breath. This little sweet treat is great for your overall health. Milk + Sour fruits One of the Ayurvedic texts, Yogaratnakara, mentions this combination is as good as POISON for the gut! Yogaratnakara is a text that discusses Ayurvedic concepts, practices, and techniques. It also contains remedies for various ailments. The book is unique in that it provides insights into the evolution of medical knowledge from antiquity to the late 17th century. Eating a variety of foods at once can overtax your body and lead to digestive issues. This could result in the creation of toxic substances within your body. If consumed individually, these foods might aid in digestion and potentially promote fat loss. Consuming mismatched foods can lead to nausea, bloating, and unpleasant odours in your digestive system, potentially resulting in severe illness. One such combination is having sour fruits like grapes, pineapple, oranges, strawberries, watermelon, bananas, and the list goes on. Eating bananas with milk can potentially impair your digestion, alter gut bacteria, produce harmful substances in your body, and potentially lead to symptoms like a stuffy nose, cold, cough, or allergies. Both bananas and milk are delicious and refreshing, but once digested, bananas turn sour, while milk turns sweet. It can create a sense of confusion in our stomach and body, potentially causing harmful substances, allergies, and other challenges. Furthermore, refrain from consuming milk and melons simultaneously. Milk consumption can lead to excretion while eating melon can result in urination. It takes longer for the body to digest milk. Milk+ Non-vegetarian food It is one of the most deadly combinations said to cause skin diseases, indigestion, and other gastroenterological diseases, as per Ayurveda. Combining milk and chicken or any other non-vegetarian food may not be ideal as they have different protein compositions that digest differently. Consuming milk and chicken simultaneously can produce harmful compounds in the body. Some individuals may find it challenging to digest. This could lead to increased acidity in the stomach, making digestion more challenging. You can also feel stomach ache, nausea, indigestion, ulcers, constipation and acid reflux. Milk+ Sea salt Have you ever considered the reason behind using sugar instead of salt in the milk? The reason for this is that salt and milk do not complement each other. They possess contrasting characteristics. Adding milk to curries and sauces can unknowingly cause harm… Continue reading Viruddha Ahara – 5 combinations with milk you must avoid

How to choose the right quantity of food to eat?

In Ayurvedic nutrition, we do not count the calories or weigh the food in grams. The quality of food matters more than quantity. Ayurveda thinks of food as medicine. This means the choices you make about what you eat can affect your health. When I treat my patients, 80% of the treatment involves coming up and implementing a suitable diet plan considering many factors, like their health conditions, body constitution (Prakriti) etc. And to decide on the quantity, we look at the digestive fire (Agni) of the patient. How much should you eat according to your Prakriti? Every individual is different and therefore, the quantity of food you can have depends on your Prakriti. Kapha – less is more! Kapha people have a low digestive fire and therefore, have a sluggish digestion. Therefore, the quantity of food they consume should be minimal. Excessive consumption easily causes Ama (toxic waste accumulation) and leads to more lethargy, tiredness, weight gain and other conditions. Pitta- feed the fire! Pitta people have a high digestive fire. If you eat less, the fire will not be satisfied, leading to acidity and heartburn. Hence the quantity of food should be more. Vata – I’m unpredictable! Vata people, on the other hand, have irregular digestion. It may be good one day, but bad on the other. Hence it is difficult to say whether Vata people should eat more or less. However, one general rule you can use is to eat until the stomach is half full. In general, all Prakriti can aim at eating food until their stomachs are half full (leaving the rest for air and water). However, if you have Kapha or Vata predominance, choose your quantity wisely. Now if you have no idea what your Prakriti is, please consult an Ayurvedic doctor. Do not attempt those online quizzes as most of them are not accurate. Rules of eating Ayurveda has set certain guidelines for eating. They include the following: Eat warm food, added with good fats. Eat the right quantity, after the digestion of the previous meal. Eat favourable food. Eat compatible foods. Do not talk or laugh while eating. Eat neither too slow nor too fast. Engage all your senses, body and mind while eating (mindful eating). The last point is the most important of them all. Be aware of what you eat, how much you eat and how you eat and see how it has a positive impact on your overall health!

How to choose the right quantity food for you?

According to Ayurveda, food is medicine. Along with routine and medicines, diet is equally important for healing and remaining healthy. That is why it is important to choose the right quantity of food to consume. Ayurveda gives utmost importance to digestion. An imbalanced digestive fire (Agni) is the reason of all diseases. Therefore, eat mindfully considering your body type or Prakriti and health conditions. Also, in Ayurveda, the quality of food is more important than quantity and the digestive fire or Agni, is taken into account to decide the amount of food one should consume. Due to their poor digestive fire, Kapha individuals frequently have slow digestion. Overeating can result in Ama or toxic waste accumulation, which can cause fatigue, lethargy, weight gain and other health issues. Food should therefore be consumed in moderation by Kapha people. Little, regular meals can help keep the digestive fire going and prevent the buildup of Ama over the day. On the other hand, Pitta people have a high digestive fire, and consuming less food can lead to acidity and heartburn. Hence, the quantity of food should be more for Pitta individuals. However, it is important to avoid overeating as this can lead to indigestion, inflammation and other health issues. Choosing cooling and hydrating foods can also help balance Pitta and prevent heat-related imbalances. Vata people have irregular digestion, and it may be good one day but bad on the other. Hence, it is difficult to determine if Vata individuals should consume more or less food. However, one general rule of thumb is to eat until the stomach is half full. This allows enough space for air and water, which aids in digestion and prevents overeating. In general, all Prakritis can aim at eating food until the stomach is half full. This practice promotes healthy digestion, prevents overeating and allows for mindful eating. It is also essential to avoid distractions while eating, such as watching television or using electronic devices, as this can lead to mindless eating and overconsumption. Apart from the quantity of food, the quality of food is also important in Ayurvedic nutrition. Eating fresh, seasonal and whole foods that are appropriate for one’s Prakriti can promote overall health and balance. Processed and packaged foods should be avoided as they are typically high in preservatives, additives and other artificial ingredients that can disrupt the balance of the body. Ayurvedic nutrition places a strong emphasis on mindful eating, which involves focusing on the tastes, textures, and aromas of food while consuming it. In order to aid in digestion and nutrient absorption, it also entails taking the time to chew meals thoroughly. Mindful eating can help avoid overeating, which also helps to improve general health and well-being. In conclusion, choosing the right quantity of food in Ayurvedic nutrition involves considering an individual’s Prakriti and digestive fire. Kapha individuals should consume minimal amounts of food, Pitta individuals should consume more, and Vata individuals should aim for half-full stomachs. Mindful eating and selecting quality, whole foods appropriate for one’s Prakriti are also crucial for promoting balance and overall health.

Delicious and healthy Ayurvedic Hummus recipe

As an Ayurvedic doctor, I firmly believe that a healthy diet forms the cornerstone of a balanced and vibrant lifestyle. Ayurveda considers food as medicine and therefore, what you eat has an important role to play in your overall well-being and healing. So, here is a simple Ayurvedic Hummus recipe to add to your diet. This Ayurvedic Hummus recipe thoughtfully combines ingredients that are aligned with Ayurvedic principles to nurture your overall health. Ingredients: 2 cups cubed roasted sweet potato 1.5 cups boiled chickpeas (soak before boiling for 5-6 hours) 1/4 cup olive oil 1/4 cup tahini 2 tablespoons of lemon juice 1/2 tablespoon salt Method of preparation: Roast the sweet potato at 425°F for 30 minutes on a baking sheet lined with parchment. Then, add all the ingredients mentioned above to the food processor and blend until smooth. Transfer it to another bowl and enjoy your Ayurvedic Hummus. If you want, you can add well-soaked nuts and seeds along with boiled chickpeas. Nuts and seeds provide healthy fats, protein and essential micronutrients, further enriching the Ayurvedic Hummus. The addition of roasted sweet potato provides a grounding and soothing quality to this Hummus. Sweet potatoes are rich in complex carbohydrates, fibre and essential vitamins and minerals, making them an excellent choice for supporting digestive health and stabilizing blood sugar levels. Boiled chickpeas are a vital component of this Ayurvedic Hummus. Chickpeas are easily digestible and a good source of plant-based protein. Soaking the chickpeas before boiling enhances their digestibility and nutrient absorption. These legumes also offer a good amount of soluble fibre, which aids in promoting a healthy gut and cholesterol levels. Ayurveda recommends incorporating healthy fats into our diet and olive oil is a preferred option due to its numerous health benefits. Rich in monounsaturated fats and antioxidants, olive oil supports cardiovascular health and helps reduce inflammation. Made from sesame seeds, tahini provides a nutty flavour and a creamy texture to the Hummus. Sesame seeds are an excellent source of minerals like calcium, magnesium and iron, enhancing bone health and supporting overall vitality. The tangy freshness of lemon juice not only adds flavour but also aids digestion by stimulating the production of digestive enzymes. Lemons are rich in vitamin C, which boosts the immune system and acts as an antioxidant. A small amount of salt enhances the taste of the Hummus while balancing the flavours. Ayurveda advises using mineral-rich salts like Himalayan or sea salt in moderation. For those looking to explore additional flavours and health benefits, consider adding well-soaked nuts and seeds to the Hummus along with the boiled chickpeas. Incorporating this Ayurvedic Hummus into your diet can be a delightful and healthful experience. By embracing the wisdom of Ayurveda and its focus on balanced nutrition, you take a step towards nurturing your body, mind and soul. The combination of sweet potatoes, chickpeas and other natural ingredients in this Hummus recipe exemplifies the fusion of flavor and nutrition, and it can be a valuable addition to your journey towards optimal health and well-being. With Ayurveda, you can explore the abundance of nature’s bounty and embrace the nourishing properties of foods in your pursuit of a healthier and more fulfilling life. Enjoy the Ayurvedic Hummus and savour the journey of holistic wellness it sets you upon. Want to learn more about Ayurvedic nutrition? Join our course today!

Does Ayurvedic diet consist only of vegetarian foods?

Food

Ayurveda is a traditional system of medicine that places a strong emphasis on harmony and balance in all facets of life, including diet and nutrition. Although Ayurvedic diet is frequently connected with vegetarianism, adopting an Ayurvedic lifestyle does not require becoming a vegetarian. Ayurveda stresses individualized food advice based on an individual’s body constitution (Prakriti), digestive capacity and health state since it understands that each person is unique and has varied nutritional needs. Ayurveda also stresses the need to consume full, seasonal meals that are fresh and in season and that are suitable for one’s constitution and digestive system. This indicates that the quality of the cuisine emphasized over its vegetarian status. Animal products can give the body vital nutrients and nourishment when eaten in moderation and with awareness, according to Ayurveda. To protect the environment and health, Ayurveda recommends sourcing and processing animal products ethically. Ayurveda also acknowledges the importance of the mind-body connection to general health and wellness. It highlights the significance of mindful eating, which is being present and conscious of the food and eating process while avoiding distractions like television or mobile phones. Ayurveda emphasizes peaceful meal settings to avoid negative effects on digestion due to emotions like stress, anger, or disturbance. In conclusion, living an Ayurvedic lifestyle does not require being a vegetarian. An Ayurvedic diet requires individuals to consume complete, fresh, and seasonally appropriate foods – both vegetarian and non-vegetarian, which suit their Prakriti and digestive capacity. Ayurveda acknowledges that animal products can give the body vital nutrients and sustenance when ingested in moderation and with awareness. Ayurveda recommends responsibly sourcing and processing animal products to protect the environment and health. To maintain the best digestive health, Ayurveda highlights mindful eating for optimal digestive health, discouraging eating under stress or distraction.

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 sprout. It is a delicious and nutritious delicacy that is often overlooked. Coconut sprouts, also known as coconut hearts or palm hearts, are the inner core of the coconut tree’s growing tip. They are harvested before the tree has a chance to fully mature, usually 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. They can be eaten raw, sliced and added to salads or sandwiches, or cooked and used 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. They can also be pickled, canned, or dried and used 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 have any queries, book a consultation with us. We are happy to help!

Why Ayurveda Loves Coconut Water

Ayurveda places great importance on natural remedies and nutrition for maintaining a healthy body and mind. One of the most treasured natural remedies in Ayurveda is tender coconut water. This refreshing drink is rich in nutrients and has numerous health benefits, making it a staple in Ayurvedic practices.

5 Foods to Boost Your Immunity

Ayurveda defines strong immunity as a result of good digestion, strong Agni (digestive fire), good liver functioning and a balanced endocrine system. There are many natural foods available that help enhance your immunity. According to Ayurveda, you should add these foods to your diet to boost your immune system. The 5 Foods to Boost Immunity: Amla (Indian gooseberry) Amla has more Vitamin C than in Acai or oranges and has rich anti-oxidant properties that help protect our blood cells from oxidative stress and enhance immune cell function. The Vitamin C in Amla thus helps prevent as well as recover from different types of infections, like common cold. Amla suits every body type and is easy to digest. Dates Dates are the “fruit of kings.” It helps build Ojus (vitality) and strengthen the tissue systems of the body. The fruit is rich in immunity-boosting elements, such as magnesium, copper, selenium antioxidant, etc. that are necessary for immune response. Ghee (clarified butter) Ghee benefits the Sapta Dhatus (7 tissue systems) of the body and is rich in antioxidants. It has both gut-health-boosting and detoxification properties that are great for the immune system. Dry ginger Dry ginger is rich in antioxidants. It helps build immunity and reduce inflammation. It is also great for the digestive system. Black raisins Black raisins improve blood quality and have the potential to reduce the inflammatory response. They are also loaded with vitamins and minerals that help boost the immune system and recover from infections. And if you’re struggling with any health issues, book a consultation with us or if you have any queries, contact us. We’ll help bring you back to good health.

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