herbal Archives - Doctor Rekha

In Ayurveda, herbal teas are not just comforting drinks. They also offer many health benefits. The herbs and spices used in these teas are specifically chosen for their medicinal properties and, their capacity to balance the Doshas. Benefits of Herbal Tea Herbal teas, in addition to their delightful flavors, offer an array of health benefits. Specifically, they include: Stress Reduction: The body can better handle stress because of the adaptogenic qualities of herbs, like Aparajita. Better Digestion: Pepper and asafoiteda, among other ingredients, not only promote healthy digestion but also reduce gas and discomfort. Detoxification: Herbs like neem and turmeric, for instance, help the body rid itself of toxins and, moreover, purify the blood. Improved Immunity: The infection-fighting properties of herbs, such as Ajwain, not only help boost immunity, but also enhance overall health. But, before you consume any of these herbs, make sure that they are suitable for you. You can, therefore, seek the help of a qualified Ayurvedic doctor to guide you. Ayurvedic Herbal Tea Recipes Here are some recipes of herbal teas that serve different purposes. Furthermore, they can provide various health benefits and enhance your overall well-being. Anti-anxiety herbal tea This tea is cooling in nature; moreover, it helps with better sleep, reduces anxiety, calms and relaxes the mind, and, in addition, improves memory. It also works great for people with hypertension (high blood pressure) and hypothyroidism. Ingredients: Fresh blue pea flowers Ajwain leaves Water How to prepare: Take fresh blue pea flowers and remove the stalks. Add them to boiling (hot) water and let them steep. Add ajwain leaves for flavour and digestion. Drink after dinner. You can also prepare the tea by adding the flowers and ajwain leaves in water and boiling it. As an Ayurvedic doctor, this tea, therefore, is part of my daily night time routine. It helps me relax after a hectic day! Herbal tea for digestion Bharittha tea, on the other hand, is perfect to drink after having a heavy meal. It alleviates gas, bloating and indigestion. The tea also improves the digestive fire or Agni, scrapes off (Lekhana) the excess fat from food and subsides Vata and Kapha Doshas. This Bharittha tea recipe is from the Ayurvedic text – Yogaratnakara. Moreover, it highlights the importance of holistic health. Ingredients: Water Lemon Pepper Himalayan Pink Salt Asafoetida How to Prepare: Boil a glass of water Add a squeeze of lemon to the water. Add some pepper, asafoetida and Himalayan pink salt. And your tea is ready! Do not have this tea if, for instance, you suffer from acidity, acid reflux, or, in addition, heartburn Licorice Tea This tea is my absolute favourite. It has helped me a lot; moreover, it is a great replacement for morning coffee. This is the best thing to drink every morning (in all seasons) for your skin, hair, digestion and overall health. Ingredients: Licorice root Water How to Prepare: Add 1 inch piece of licorice root to 2 glasses of water and reduce to 1 glass. Licorice is not recommended for you if you suffer from hypertension; moreover, if you have a family history of the condition, it is also advised to avoid it. Also, take it for a maximum period of 3 months and stop for a while. Which herbal tea is your favourite? Let me know in the comments! 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.

Hemophilia is a rare, hereditary bleeding disorder with excessive bleeding as its main symptom. The condition is manageable if detected at an early stage. If not managed, hemophilia can be fatal. Ayurveda can help keep your symptoms at check primarily through diet and lifestyle practices, thereby, improving the quality of your life. What is Hemophilia? Hemophilia is a bleeding disorder, where a person often has trouble forming blood clots. This results in chronic bleeding after an injury or accident and other health issues. Ayurveda categorizes bleeding disorders as “Raktapitta.” Hemophilia too comes under the category. According to Ayurveda, Raktapitta is the result of an aggravated Pitta Dosha (due to dietary and lifestyle habits, and emotions), which affects the Rakta (blood). In terms of diet (Ahara), the excessive consumption of the following kinds of foods can aggravate your Pitta Dosha and be the reason for hemophilia: Foods of Amla (sour), Katu (pungent), and Lavana (salty) tastes (Rasa). Foods that are heating (Ushna) and cause acid reflux and heartburn Vidahi). The following lifestyle practices also contribute to an imbalance in Pitta Dosha: Over exposure to sunlight Overdo exercise and walking Also, extreme emotions , such as excessive grief and anger can also affect the balance of your Pitta Dosha. To learn more about the early signs of increased Pitta, watch this video: The symptoms The main symptom of hemophilia is excessive bleeding. It could be external bleeding, which is visible or internal bleeding. External bleeding symptoms Bleeding inside the mouth as a result of of a cut or due to a loss of tooth Bleeding from the nose without a reason Excessive bleeding from even a small injury Bleeding from an injury from before that resumed after a while Internal bleeding symptoms Signs of intestinal bleeding marked by blood in urine or stool Joint discomfort and swelling Ayurvedic Treatment for Hemophilia There is no permanent cure for hemophilia. However, with the right diet and lifestyle practices, the condition can be managed. Diet A nutritious diet is essential for managing hemophilia. To treat bleeding issues, Ayurvedic principles highlight the need for a Pitta-pacifying diet. You can include the following foods in your diet: Rice varieties, such as Shashtikashali (Njavara rice), Neevar, Priyangu, etc. Pulses, such as mung beans, masoor dal, chickpeas, moth beans, etc. Vegetables, such as pointed gourd (Patola), Vetas leaves, Shalmali flower, etc. Fruits, such as Amla, pomegranate (Dadima), raisins, etc. These foods are good for managing hemophilia, but that does not mean that all of them may suit you. It is always best to consult a qualified Ayurvedic doctor first to figure out the right diet for you. Also Read: Ayurvedic Diet for Different Doshas Lifestyle Leading a healthy lifestyle benefits your overall health andalso, helps manage hemophilia symptoms. Daily exercise To enhance circulation without putting too much strain on the body, you can, for example, try light activities such as yoga and walking. Stress management Reduce stress, which can aggravate bleeding issues, by practicing breathing exercises, meditation, and other relaxation methods. Prevent heat exposure Because the Pitta Dosha is linked to heat, stay out of the sun and warm places for extended periods. Ayurvedic Approach to Haemophilia Management Ayurveda emphasizes treating patients comprehensively and individually, considering their unique imbalances (Vikriti) and constitutions (Prakriti). At my hospital, this is how we go about managing hemophilia: Evaluation At the first consultation, the doctors have a detailed discussion with the patient regarding their symptoms and health condition. We then figure out the Dosha imbalances and the root cause and also the foods and activities that trigger the symptoms. Based on the information, we come up with a personalized treatment plan. Lifestyle and dietary practices The treatment plans include dietary recommendations and lifestyle practices that prevent the imbalance of Pitta Dosha. Detoxification Regular detoxification treatments, such as Panchakarma, aid in the removal of toxins and preserve the balance of Doshas. However,the procedures tare recommended only if required and suitable for the patient. Recognizing the triggers Determine the foods or activities that cause bleeding episodes or worse symptoms and stay away from them. 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.

As an Ayurvedic doctor, I often have patients consult me with different health conditions. And one of the reasons for some of the health problems, especially for women, is hormonal imbalances. Health conditions, such as PCOS, hypothyroidism, etc. are all results of hormonal imbalance. In today’s fast-paced world, hormonal imbalances have become increasingly common. Factors such as stress, poor diet, environmental toxins and sedentary lifestyles can influence the balance of your hormones. The common symptoms include irregular menstrual cycles, mood swings, weight gain and low energy levels. While conventional medicine offers solutions like hormone replacement therapy, many individuals seek natural alternatives to restore balance to their hormones without side effects. In this blog, let us explore how Ayurveda offers natural methods to balance hormones effectively. What is Hormonal Imbalance? The endocrine system is made of endocrine glands. These glands secrete hormones that are necessary to carry out a variety of functions in our body. Endocrine glands do not have channels or ducts to carry these hormones. Therefore, hormones are discharged directly into the bloodstream. The pituitary gland, pineal gland, thymus, thyroid, adrenal glands, pancreas, testes and ovaries are among the most crucial endocrine glands in the body. Hormones play a crucial role in our growth, digestion, sexual desire and reproductive health. They are also responsible for our cognitive processes, emotions, regulating our body temperature, and satisfying our thirst. An excess or deficiency of a hormone in the body can lead to hormonal imbalances and eventually diseases. This situation can occur due to various factors, such as feeling stressed, having a poor diet, or experiencing health issues. Hormonal Imbalance as per Ayurveda Ayurvedic texts do not have a direct mention of the endocrine glands. However, they do have mentions of symptoms due to the increase or decrease of hormones in different contexts. Influence of Doshas on endocrine glands Doshas cannot be considered as hormones, as they lack form and also because Kapha and Pitta Doshas are stagnant and need to be mobilized by Vata Dosha. However, their functioning can be considered similar to hormones. Pituitary gland The pituitary gland, also known as the master gland, is located in the brain. This gland secretes hormones that control the operation of some of the other endocrine glands. Similarly, Prana Vata, Sadhaka Pitta and Tarpaka Kapha – subtypes of Vata, Pitta and Kapha Doshas are also located in the head. When these Dosha subtypes work together, they can be considered similar to the functions of the pituitary gland. Also, the Dosha subtypes have an influence on the pituitary gland and its functions. Thyroid gland Ayurveda considers the throat as the seat of kapha. This is exactly where our thyroid and parathyroid glands are situated. The movement of Udana Vata and Prana Vata – two of the Vata subtypes also happens in the throat. So, you can say that Kapha, Prana Vata and Udana Vata oversee and influence the functioning of your thyroid and parathyroid glands. Adrenal glands and pancreas Adrenal glands and pancreas are situated in the abdomen, which is also the seat of Ranjaka Pitta and Pachaka Pitta – Pitta subtypes, Kledaka Kapha – one of the Kapha subtypes and Samana Vata – a Vata subtype. Therefore, these Dosha subtypes do influence the functioning of the adrenal glands as well as the pancreas. Also, since the Udana Vata moves upwards from the navel towards the throat, it also has an influence on the endocrine glands. Testes and ovaries Similarly, the testes in men and ovaries in women are located in the pelvis, which is primarily the territory of Apana Vata. Therefore, the vata subtype oversees the functioning of the glands. Treatment of Hormonal Imbalance with Ayurveda Every year, I have a lot of patients who join my women’s hormonal health program as well as thyroid and PCOS reversal programs to have their hormonal imbalances corrected with Ayurveda. Though the treatment can vary with the health condition, Prakriti (body type) and Dosha imbalances of the patients, here are some of the common treatment approaches I follow. Dietary Modifications According to Ayurveda, poor gut health is the root cause of all diseases. If your digestive fire (Agni) is not in balance, it can affect your digestion. Food, when not digested, turns into Ama (toxins) and the accumulation of toxins (Ama) in the body can lead to diseases and even disrupt your hormonal balance. Therefore, treatment for hormonal imbalances with Ayurveda often focuses on improving digestive function mainly through dietary changes. If you are someone who follows my Instagram page or reads my blogs, you might be aware of how 80% of my treatment involves food as medicine. Only the rest 20% involves medicines, that too if necessary. Therefore, my treatment plan for patients with hormonal imbalances primarily involves dietary corrections. In Ayurveda, diet plays a crucial role in maintaining hormonal balance. Foods are categorized according to their taste (Rasa), energy (Virya), and post-digestive effect (Vipaka), and individuals are encouraged to eat according to their Dosha type and current imbalances. For example: Vata-pacifying foods, such as warm soups, cooked grains, and nourishing oils, can help calm the nervous system and balance Vata hormones. Pitta-pacifying foods, such as cooling fruits, vegetables, and grains, can help reduce inflammation and balance Pitta hormones. Kapha-pacifying foods, such as light, dry, and spicy foods, can help stimulate digestion and balance Kapha hormones. Herbs, herbal remedies and herbal medicines Some of the common herbs and medicines that help with hormonal imbalance according to Ayurveda include the following: Licorice This is one of my favorite Ayurvedic herbs! Licorice or Mulethi helps regulate cortisol levels and supports the adrenal glands. You can have licorice in the form of tea, tonic or extracts, but with the advice of a qualified Ayurvedic doctor. Turmeric Curcumin – the active component of turmeric has anti-inflammatory… Continue reading Hormonal Imbalance Treatment with Ayurveda

Though not transmittable, contact dermatitis is a skin condition that causes great deal of pain and discomfort. If left untreated for an extended period, it has the potential to result in lasting scars and harm to the skin. To address the issue, one must select an effective treatment rooted in Ayurvedic traditions. What is contact dermatitis? Contact dermatitis is a common skin condition that affects millions worldwide. It happens when your skin is exposed to something that it reacts negatively to. This may be a substance that triggers an allergic reaction or discomfort. It can manifest as redness, itching, swelling, and sometimes even blistering, often resulting from direct contact with certain substances. Types of Contact Dermatitis It is a type of skin inflammation caused by direct contact with irritants or allergens, and it has two main types: Irritant contact dermatitis: This occurs when the skin comes into contact with a substance that damages or irritates it. For instance, common culprits include detergents, soaps, acids, and solvents. Allergic contact dermatitis: This occurs when the skin has an allergic reaction to a specific substance, such as certain metals (e.g., nickel), cosmetics, plants (e.g., poison ivy), or medications. According to the American Academy of Dermatology, irritant contact dermatitis accounts for up to 80% of cases, while allergic contact dermatitis accounts for the remaining 20%. Its symptoms can vary in intensity; moreover, they may include redness, itching, swelling, dryness, and even blistering. Managing this skin disease effectively requires identifying and avoiding triggers while soothing the irritated skin. Ayurvedic Perspective on Contact Dermatitis Ayurveda views skin diseases like contact dermatitis as a manifestation of imbalances within the body, particularly involving the Doshas – Vata, Pitta and Kapha. According to Ayurvedic principles, an imbalance in these Doshas can disrupt the body’s natural harmony and lead to various health issues, including skin conditions. Vata: When Vata Dosha is aggravated, it can cause dryness, roughness, and itching of the skin, making it more susceptible to irritants. Pitta: Aggravated Pitta Dosha can result in inflammation, heat, and sensitivity, exacerbating symptoms like redness and swelling in contact dermatitis. Kapha: Imbalances in Kapha Dosha may lead to excessive oiliness and skin congestion, worsening symptoms such as itching and irritation. According to Ayurveda, it is also known as Udarda, can result from exposure to potent chemicals, soaps, cleaning agents, or prolonged water exposure. Ayurvedic Treatments for Contact Dermatitis Ayurvedic treatment for contact dermatitis aims to rebalance the Doshas, cleanse the body of toxins, and promote skin healing. Here are some Ayurvedic remedies and practices that may help alleviate symptoms and prevent recurrences: Dietary Adjustments Ayurveda emphasizes the importance of a balanced diet to maintain overall health and well-being. Individuals with contact dermatitis may benefit from consuming cooling and soothing foods to pacify aggravated Pitta Dosha. This includes fresh fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and herbal teas. Avoiding spicy, oily, and processed foods can also help prevent further irritation. Herbal Remedies Ayurvedic herbs possess potent anti-inflammatory, antipruritic, and skin-soothing properties that can aid in managing it. Some commonly used herbs, for example, include neem, turmeric, aloe vera, and licorice. These herbs can be applied topically as creams, ointments, or poultices to reduce inflammation and promote healing. Abhyanga (Ayurvedic Massage) Regular self-massage, known as Abhyanga can help nourish and moisturize the skin while calming the nervous system. Massaging the affected areas with gentle, circular motions can improve circulation, reduce itching, and promote the elimination of toxins from the body. Lifestyle Modifications Healthy lifestyle habits can be crucial in managing contact dermatitis. Avoiding exposure to known irritants and allergens, wearing protective clothing, practising good hygiene, and managing stress through yoga and meditation can help prevent flare-ups and promote skin healing. Ayurvedic Formulations Ayurvedic practitioners may prescribe specific formulations tailored to an individual’s unique constitution and imbalances. These formulations, contain herbs, minerals, and natural ingredients to address the underlying causes; in addition, they aim to restore skin health. Utilizing home remedies Home remedies are crucial in managing and addressing contact dermatitis. Home remedies involve using readily available items like plants and food for treatment. These can be beneficial, cost-effective choices that are free from chemicals. Many DIY remedies can improve the skin and prevent it from drying, benefiting those with contact dermatitis. There are specific items in your household that can provide a cooling sensation to your skin and alleviate discomfort from sore or swollen skin. The symptoms can be effectively managed using Ayurvedic treatments and natural home remedies. Ayurveda effectively controls its symptoms and, in addition, educates individuals on how to prevent its recurrence and promote skin well-being. Final takeaway Contact dermatitis, a troublesome skin condition, can find relief and healing through Ayurvedic treatment. Individuals can manage symptoms effectively and prevent recurrences by addressing imbalances in the Doshas, detoxifying the body and adopting natural remedies and lifestyle practices. However, consulting a qualified Ayurvedic practitioner for personalized guidance and treatment recommendations tailored to your specific needs is essential. With dedication and patience, you can restore balance to your skin and experience lasting relief from contact dermatitis. 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 you aware that some Ayurvedic herbs are more powerful than allopathic medications? Marketers and promoters still casually market and promote them as over-the-counter supplements and treatments. 98% of all herbal medicines mentioned in Ayurveda are combinations of herbs and not single herbs. Ayurveda has a well-developed medical system of healing diseases with herbs. However, this is NOT by using a single herb as a medicine. For example, using a super herb like Shatavari alone has very less effectiveness when compared to that of Shatavaryaadi ghrita (aadi means etc.) which is a combination of 35 plus herbs. Ayurvedic herbs have their side-effects too! Ayurvedic herbs may have lesser side-effects compared to other medical systems, removing the myth of being completely free of them. For example, prolonged use of Triphala is found to cause drying of mucous membrane of the intestine, leading to chronic constipation. Use of Sarpagandha as a herb for lowering BP has found to cause depression, if not used as per a qualified doctor’s advice. ‘Sarva Dharmeshu Madhyamam’ Do not go to the extremes. Always take a middle ground. Do not overdo on Ayurveda herbs thinking it is good for you. For example, some of the herbs are habit forming. If you are taking such a herb for say constipation for a long time, you will realize that you are unable to pass motion unless you take that herb. One man’s meat is another man’s poison. Just because, something is good and works for someone, does not mean it is good for you. You are unique. Your prakruti, your strength, your digestion, your genetic makeup, your surroundings, your internal environment, your thoughts and emotions, your mind, is what makes you YOU! Hence your herbs/medicines/food/treatment should be unique too. Do NOT self-medicate. Consult a good ayurvedic doctor before relying on what is written on the internet. Doctor Rekha is a 4th generation Ayurvedic Medicine Doctor (BAMS) living in between Dubai and India who has patients from around the globe who believes that the wisdom of Ayurveda can help everyone lead a happy, healthy and disease-free life. You can join our Health Programs for mind and body detox. If you are struggling with any health issues, you can either book a consultation with us or send us a message via WhatsApp to +91 79074 89839. We have the best Ayurvedic doctors in Trivandrum who are always glad to help you. If you have any queries, contact us. You can also visit us at our hospital. You can also follow me on Instagram. … Continue reading Ayurvedic Herbs – The Lesser Known Facts

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Tag: herbal

Herbal Teas: Ayurvedic Benefits and Recipes

Hemophilia Treatment in Ayurveda

Hormonal Imbalance Treatment with Ayurveda

Contact Dermatitis Treatment in Ayurveda

Ayurvedic Herbs – The Lesser Known Facts

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