Medicines in Ayurveda and Allopathy – Is It Okay to Take Together

  “Can I take Ayurvedic and Allopathic medicines together?”   This is the frequent question asked by my patients, and the answer is NO. Ayurveda and Allopathy are two entirely different systems of medicines.    Ayurveda    As an Ayurvedic doctor, my line of treatment mainly includes diagnosing and treating the root cause of health conditions. The treatment involves dietary and lifestyle changes and mild Ayurvedic medicines and Panchakarma detoxification, if necessary.    The main intent of my treatment is to correct the digestive fire (Agni) of the patient. This is because according to Ayurveda, an imbalanced Agni is the root cause of all diseases (Rogasarve api mande agnou).   When I say Agni or gut health, I am taking care of your liver health which is crucial for digestion. The liver has two main functions- one is fat metabolism, and the other is detoxification. When you are putting yourself on so many medications, the liver has to try hard to detoxify them while not helping with the core treatment principle. This is why it is essential not to take too many or strong medications when you’re trying to heal from one condition.    If you thought all Ayurvedic medicines are good, you’re wrong. Ayurvedic medicines containing heavy metals and strong herbs, like Ashwagandha or  Shatavari can only have adverse effects on your health.    That is why 80% of my treatment involves food and the rest 20% involves medicines. If at all I have to recommend Ayurvedic medicines to a patient, I usually provide them with the mild ones I and my team make at our unit that contain only locally sourced mild herbs.   This can help your system and your own body to heal by itself by giving it the ideal environment for it to perform better. But it will take a few months.     Allopathy   Allopathy focuses on taking care of the symptoms of a health condition through medication. Hence, the mode of treatment is at a faster pace. The health condition may return in the long run if only its symptoms are suppressed.   Why you shouldn’t mix Allopathy and Ayurveda   There are differences between Ayurveda and Allopathy in terms of medication production, therapy administration, and health approach. Every medical practice, including Allopathy and Ayurveda, has benefits and drawbacks. So, having both Ayurvedic and Allopathic medicines together does not seem ideal.   There are many Ayurvedic medications, including tablets of Sudarsana, Anu Thailam, Histantin, and other formulations, that can serve as safe and efficient substitutes for their Allopathic equivalents. Therefore, it is better to focus on one medical system at a time.     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.

Dark Neck & Underarm Creams

Are you looking for the best cream for treating dark neck and underarms? The answer is there isn’t any! You could attribute the darkness on your neck to several causes. Hyperpigmentation occurs when certain areas of the skin become darker in colour. If the doctor discovers that hormones are not the cause of the skin colour changes, excessive sun exposure and poor hygiene could be potential factors.  Hyperpigmentation, the velvety patches on the folds and creases of the skin like neck, armpits, groin, etc. is called Acanthosis Nigricans (AN).    What could be the possible reasons for AN?   Diabetes AN commonly signifies that your body is generating an excess of insulin that it cannot utilize efficiently. Increasing amounts of insulin can lead to a dark patch on the skin. This is called insulin resistance.   PCOS Women with PCOS frequently develop dark spots in areas of the body where there is rubbing or friction, such as the neck, underarms, and inner thighs.   Obesity (most common) AN is associated with obesity and affects the skin. Over half of adults who are double their ideal body weight suffer from this condition.   Hypothyroidism Hypothyroidism can alter the condition of your skin, hair, and nails. It may also result in skin issues like vitiligo, melasma, alopecia areata, and xanthelasma palpebrarum. Additionally, these conditions can lead to further complications, and consequently, individuals may experience a range of symptoms.   Prolonged use of birth control pills Prolonged use of contraceptive pills can result in the formation of hyperpigmentation in areas like the armpits and skin folds.    Continuous use of steroids like Prednisolone, etc. The individual experienced the development of thickened, darkened skin in the groin, armpits, and neck following eight years of steroid treatment for dermatomyositis.   No creams or peels can cure AN completely. They can only lighten it a little temporarily; however, they can never cure it! Therefore, despite their efforts, the underlying issue remains unresolved.  Only internal treatment can cure AN.   What to do when you notice you have AN?   First, do a complete bloodwork/hormonal picture; then, consult an Ayurvedic doctor; and finally, find and treat the root cause.  If you have PCOS or diabetes, treat it. And if you are obese, lose weight.   If any doctor tells you he/she can cure AN completely with skin treatments, and you believe it, then be ready to lose all your money.   If you’re looking for the best cream for treating dark neck and underarms, you’ll be disappointed. The condition is AN, which might be related to some underlying health issues that you already have. If you notice AN, consider consulting a doctor and comprehend the root cause because every problem has its own set of solutions.    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.

Pulse Diagnosis in Ayurveda: Myth or Medical Marvel ?

Pulse Diagnosis /  Nadi Pariksha     Ayurvedic medicine has used a traditional and holistic approach to improve a person’s health and well-being while also considering their mental, physical, and spiritual aspects for centuries.  The practitioners use various diagnostic methods to check the imbalances of mind, body and spirit leading to diseases. One of those diagnostic methods is Nadi Pariksha or pulse diagnosis.    It is widely believed that Nadi Pariksha is one of the mandatory parts of Ayurvedic treatment. But, it is not true. For ages, people have tricked us into believing that nadi pariksha or ayurvedic pulse diagnosis is compulsory for ayurvedic treatment.   The absolute truth behind Nadi Pariksha as a diagnosis tool   None of the ancient Ayurvedic texts – Caraka Samhita, Ashtanga Hridaya or Susruta Samhita has any major reference about pulse diagnosis. Then how can Nadi Pariksha be the mandatory part of diagnosis?   There is no doubt that the most comprehensive, authentic and recognised course to study Ayurvedic Medicine is BAMS. However, in those 6 years I spent studying to become an Ayurvedic doctor, there was not even a single subject on Nadi Pariksha except for a few words here and there. Why is it given little or no importance if it is the most a major diagnostic tool?   I studied Nadi Pariksha from my father while assisting his patients. He had told me that it was just one of the diagnostic tools and not the only tool.     Is Nadi Pariksha’s diagnosis so crucial in the treatment process?   Ayurvedic pulse diagnosis is a recent advancement in Ayurveda and is not based on the 3 original scriptures. It is just ONE of the diagnostic tools, not the only one of the most important.    I don’t do Nadi Pariksha even in my face-to-face consultations. I don’t find it necessary to identify a person’s Prakriti by Nadi Pariksha. With all humility- thanks to the universe and my gurus – within the first few minutes of seeing and talking to a patient,  his Prakriti becomes obvious. It is not a magical power, but it just comes from practice. For years, it has been believed that Nadi Pariksha is a mandatory diagnosis method to understand the disease, but the truth is it is just ONE of the diagnostic tools, not the only one of the most important methods of diagnosis techniques.  Unfortunately, today, people use nadi pariksha more as a marketing tool to attract others to Ayurveda.     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.

Hair Growth Elixirs: Unveiling Ayurvedic Secrets for Luscious Locks

Are you tired of searching for the perfect supplement for hair growth? Look no further! The only supplement you need is Amla or Indian gooseberry. Amla is a powerhouse of nutrients and antioxidants, offering a natural solution to enhance hair growth, improve texture, reduce hair fall and even slow down premature greying.   Benefits of Amla   Amla is rich in vital vitamins like A and C to minerals like iron and calcium. These nutrients work together to strengthen hair follicles, promote healthy growth and impart a natural shine. The antioxidants in Amla play an important role in protecting your hair from damage. It prevents hair breakage and helps reduce premature ageing. Regular consumption of Amla can help retain your hair’s natural colour. The benefits offered by Amla are not just limited to your hair. It is also an anti-ageing herb that works wonders on your skin, keeping it supple and youthful. Amla also helps to improve your vision and your overall health. Amla is also good for all Doshas, especially Pitta Dosha. Even if the taste of Amla is sour, it has a post-digestive sweet taste that subsides Pitta, making it suitable for everyone. So, whether you’re Vata, Pitta, or Kapha dominant, Amla has something to offer for everyone. Ayurveda considers Amla not just as a food, but also as a medicine for its amazing health benefits. Its dual role as both nourishment and remedy makes it unique. Incorporating Amla into your daily routine does not just mean better hair; it also means better overall health.   How to incorporate Amla into your daily diet?   You can add Amla to your diet in the following ways: If you have access to fresh Amla, consider incorporating it into your morning routine. You can have it as it is or as a strained juice shot mixed with pepper (optional), not more than 30 ml in the morning. If you do not have access to fresh Amla, you can have a teaspoon of organic Amla powder mixed with ghee along with the first bolus of rice during lunch. Amla’s versatility makes it accessible to all, irrespective of your Dosha. Its benefits not only help your hair grow but also nourish them from the inside out. Amla is the perfect hair growth supplement that Ayurveda recommends. Want to improve your hair health? Join my skin and hair care program and see your hair transform! 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.

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.

Healthy People Traits According to Ayurveda

According to Ayurveda, health is not merely the absence of disease; it is a harmonious state of balance in mind, body and spirit.  And, in fact, highly healthy people possess a certain set of traits that, consequently, help them lead a disease-free life.   Sushrutha Samhita – one of the ancient Ayurvedic texts describes health as:      Sama dosha sama agnischa samadhathu mala kriyaaha।   Prasanna atma mana indriyaha swastha iti abhidheeyate।।      It means:     Health is a state where in the Tridoshas (Vata, Pitta and Kapha) are in equilibrium, digestive fire (Agni) is in a balanced state, body tissues (Dhathu) and waste (Mala) work in normal state, all physiological processes are in harmony and the soul (Atma), mind (Manas) and sense organs (Indriya) are in a state of total satisfaction (Prasanna) and content.    It is hard to say if your health meets all criteria as defined above at first glance. But you can determine it by the kind of lifestyle, diet and routine you follow.       Traits that define highly healthy people as per Ayurveda       Ayurveda teaches us that true health is not just the absence of disease, but a state of vibrant harmony in every aspect of life. The ancient Ayurvedic text Caraka Samhita mentions 6 traits that help people lead a highly healthy life.    According to Ayurveda, a healthy person:     Is a creature of routine  They follow a routine, in terms of the rhythm of the universe.   Eats a wholesome diet  A healthy person is not only mindful of their digestion, but also of what they put into their body.   Looks before they leap  They do not give a sudden equal or opposite reaction to every action. Instead, they approach every situation with patience and thought.      believes that etachment>attachment  Sensual pleasures do not excite them. Furthermore, they believe in loving without attachment.”   Does what they say  Their thoughts, speech, and actions all agree with each other and  consequently, tell the same story.      Has mastered their mind  They have good control over their mind through meditation, consequently, they live a life of austerity.   It is interesting to note that the mind is of equal or more importance than the body to live a disease-free life.      Highly healthy individuals embrace the above-mentioned traits, nurturing self-awareness, eating mindfully, maintaining daily routines, and integrate Ayurvedic practices. By doing so, you unlock the secrets to lasting well-being, as envisioned by Ayurveda.     All the above-mentioned traits can be developed if you pay attention and are not unattainable. You just need the will to do it.      If you ask me, I am also still working on these traits every day! I’m sure, with some effort one day we will all reach there! Are you also a work-in-progress?  Want to heal from your health conditions and lead a 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.

Sleep Your Way to a Healthy Life

Adequate and restful sleep is critical for the body to heal and repair itself and lack of it can lead to many health problems. In this article, let us explore the importance of sleep for our health according to Ayurveda.   According to Ayurveda, proper sleep is essential for good health and well-being. In Ayurvedic philosophy, it is considered one of the three pillars of life; moreover, it stands alongside diet and lifestyle.   In Ayurveda, sleep is considered, in fact, a natural state of rest and, furthermore, rejuvenation.  According to Ayurvedic principles, the human body is composed of three Doshas or biophysical energies – Vata, Pitta and Kapha.  Each of these Doshas, therefore, has a unique influence on our sleep patterns and, its quality.    Ayurveda believes that a balanced Dosha system is necessary for good sleep.  An imbalance in any of the Doshas,  can lead to disturbances and, as a result, health problems.      Restful  Sleep, Stronger Health    Ayurveda acknowledges the importance of sleep for health and well-being. According to Ayurveda, there are a number of ways that getting enough sleep can be beneficial to our health:     Rest and rejuvenation  It is a natural state of rest and rejuvenation, and the body uses this time to repair and regenerate itself. During the process, the body produces growth hormones, which are essential for cell repair and tissue growth.    Immune system booster  It is also necessary for a strong immune system. The body creates cytokines , which are proteins that aid in the fight against stress, infection and inflammation.     Enhances cognitive function  Proper sleep is essential for cognitive function; moreover, it plays a crucial role in memory consolidation and learning. It is also essential for mood regulation and emotional balance.     Improves digestion  Adequate sleep is critical for good digestion and metabolism. It helps to regulate hormones that control appetite and digestion, and lack of it can lead to weight gain and metabolic imbalances.     Reduces inflammation  Cancer, diabetes and heart disease are just a few of the chronic health problems that inflammation in the body is a key cause of. Getting enough sleep is essential for reducing body inflammation.       Ayurvedic tips for Better Sleep   Furthermore, Ayurveda offers many natural remedies and lifestyle practices for improving its quality.  Here are some Ayurvedic tips: Have a consistent schedule  Even on weekends, Ayurveda, therefore, advises maintaining a consistent bedtime and wake-up time. Better, it is encouraged furthermore, the body’s natural cycle is helped to be regulated.     Create a relaxing  environment  A dark, quiet and cool environment is  ideal.  Avoid bright lights and loud noises in the bedroom; furthermore, keep the temperature cool and comfortable.    Practice relaxation techniques  Ayurveda recommends relaxation techniques such as meditation, deep breathing, and yoga for reducing stress and promoting better sleep.    If you are struggling with any health issues, you can either book a consultation with us or send us a message via WhatsApp to +91 79074 89839. We have the best Ayurvedic doctors in Trivandrum who are always glad to help you. If you have any queries, contact us.  You can also visit us at our hospital.

Are flax seeds really healthy?

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

Is butter healthy?

Ayurveda identifies clarified butte or  ghee  as good fat and recommends its inclusion in your diet. But, what about regular butter? Is it healthy?    Let us see explore from the Ayurvedic perspective.     According to Ayurveda, each person has a unique body type which greatly affects diet and lifestyle. Therefore, what is healthy for one person may not be healthy for another. Some general principles can help understand butter’s healthiness in Ayurveda.    Butter Facts   One important factor to consider is the quality of the butter.     Ayurveda emphasizes the importance of consuming pure, unadulterated foods in order to support optimal health. Butter from grass-fed cows without hormones or antibiotics is healthier than from conventionally raised cows. Additionally, to avoid health risks from rancidity, you should consume freshly made ghee promptly. From an Ayurvedic perspective, people generally consider butter to be heavy, oily, and cooling. This is beneficial for Vata or Pitta, may not suit excess Kapha individuals. One of the key benefits of butter in Ayurveda is its ability to enhance the absorption of nutrients from food. This is because it  contains lipids, which are essential for the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins such as A, D, E and K. In addition, the oils in it can help to lubricate the digestive tract and support the elimination of waste products from the body.     Another benefit of butter in Ayurveda is its ability to support the health of the nervous system.  Butyric acid in butter has been shown to have anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer properties, as well as the ability to improve gut health and support immune function. Though high in saturated fat and cholesterol, it may be problematic for some.   Excess consumption of heavy, oily foods can lead to Ama or toxic build up in the body, which can contribute to a variety of health problems. Therefore, experts generally recommend consuming it in moderation and advise individuals with high cholesterol or a tendency towards excess Kapha Dosha to avoid it altogether.   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.

Health Signs in Ayurveda

Side view of serene woman sitting on sandy beach against blue sky outdoors

In this period of vast amount of online information available on health and healthy living, people find themselves lost in this rat race to health and too overwhelmed to begin their journey towards a healthy living. Ayurveda believes primarily in digestion to improve your overall health. Ayurveda can help you in achieving good health and according to Ayurveda, the following are the    Signs of good health   Vata, Pitta, and Kapha in perfect balance  Efficient working of all tissue systems (blood, bone, muscles, etc.) Good digestion and elimination Clarity of sense organs (eyes, ears, nose, etc.) Pleasant, happy mind and soul In order to achieve these aspects of good health, Ayurveda recommends you to start by getting into a routine. Ayurveda suggests a simple morning routine that includes the following steps: Step 1: Wake up early in the morning (ideally before sunrise or with sunrise) as this is the natural Vatakala that helps your body to push your bowel movements down. Step 2: Brush your teeth with Ayurvedically compliant toothpaste as most toothpaste available in the market has a sweet taste and Ayurveda does not recommend this. Ayurveda recommends toothpastes to taste like Katu (Spicy), Tikta (Bitter) and Kashaya (Astringent taste). Step 3: Tongue scrapping using copper or steel tongue scrapper, however, refrain from using plastic ones. Step 4: Oil pulling (holding oil in your mouth). Ayurveda recommends organic black sesame oil or hot water or even milk but strongly discourages the usage of coconut oil. Step 5: Drink warm water or water infused with herbs. Step 6: Abhyanga (oil massage) for at least 4 to 5 minutes. Standing out in the Sun during Abhyanga can help improve Vitamin D levels in your body. After Abhyanga, you should move your joints; light physical activity like Yoga is advised for your physical well-being. Step 7: Warm or room temperature shower. You should make sure not to let warm water fall on your head or scalp as this will lead to hair loss and hair fall. Step 8: A warm, nourishing, freshly cooked breakfast. Creating a simple morning routine will enable you to take the first step towards good 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.