Ayurvedic Treatment for Sinusitis

Growing up, my father, who was an Ayurvedic doctor, never let me try anything else other than Ayurveda for any illness.  I have had my own tough times with sinusitis issues and his remedies and treatments always worked.  Though I didn’t like them back then, today, I’m thankful that Ayurveda has become my way of life.    What is sinusitis?   Sinusitis is a health condition involving inflammation of the tissues lining the sinus, which are the air-filled cavities bordering the nasal passage. The sinus is responsible for creating mucus.  Sinusitis is a result of a bacterial or viral infection, or even an allergy. It is marked by symptoms such as nasal congestion, a mild or severe headache and pain in the face.  Ayurveda associates sinusitis with Peenasa (mild form of sinusitis) and Dushta Pratishyaya (chronic sinusitis). Ayurveda considers sinusitis as a result of imbalance of Kapha and Vata Doshas.  When these Doshas are out of balance, Ama (toxins) accumulate in the sinuses, leading to inflammation and congestion. Ayurveda recommends many remedies and treatment for sinusitis.  In this blog, let me share some natural treatment for sinusitis that have helped me and that I recommend to my patients.   Ayurvedic Treatment for Sinusitis   In Ayurveda, the treatment for sinusitis starts with determining the main cause of Dosha imbalance. The focus of the treatment for sinusitis is mainly on regaining the balance of the Doshas, eliminating Ama and improving the functional capacities of the body.  Here are some effective Ayurvedic treatments for sinusitis:   Nasya Therapy   Nasya is one of the five Panchakarma procedures. It involves administering medicated oil into the nose, in order to cleanse nasal passages.  I recommend using Nasya Oil and Steaming Oil to do Nasya. This works best if you are often prone to allergic rhinitis, seasonal cough, cold and other upper respiratory conditions.  If you are healthy and do Nasya as a part of your daily routine, you can just use 2 drops of Nasya Oil. Another option is Anu Taila.    How to do Nasya?   Massage face, neck and chest with steaming oil  Remember to apply pressure on sinus areas.    Steam face, neck and chest with eyes protected  Cover your eyes using a cloth and then apply steam.    Instil 2 drops of Nasya Oil in each nostril  Instil the oil in each nostril and  inhale. Position your face facing upwards until you feel the Nasya Oil get into your nasal cavity.    Spit the mucus out  This step is very important.  The best time to do Nasya is ideally in the morning – 1 hour before/after shower and 1 hour before/after food.    Steam Inhalation   Steam inhalation with medicinal herbs is considered one of the best home remedies for sinusitis.  It helps to clear the blocked nasal passages, manage congestion, and lessen sinus pain.   How to do steam inhalation?   Heat water and drop a few eucalyptus oil or sprinkle herbs, such as mint or tulsi. Take a towel and place it over your head and breathe in the steam for the next 10-15 minutes. This can be done 2-3 times a day to have relief from sinus congestion.   Jala Neti (Nasal Irrigation)   Jala Neti is one of the six cleansing methods(Shat Karma) mentioned in Hatha Yoga.  It involves rinsing the nasal passage with warm water containing salt. Jala Neti helps effectively rinse mucus and allergens, thus alleviating sinusitis symptoms immediately.   How to do Jala Neti?   Mix 1 teaspoon of non-iodized salt in a cup of warm water. With the help of a Neti pot, rinse the saline solution in one nostril and let it come out from the opposite side. Repeat on the other side. This should be done once a day and ideally done in the morning.   Herbal Remedies   The following herbs that are useful in the treatment of sinusitis:   Tulsi (Holy Basil) Tulsi has anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial potential. Tulsi tea or inhaling steam from Tulsi water can help clear up the sinuses.   Turmeric Turmeric has anti-inflammatory properties, which help reduce the swelling in the sinuses. Consume one tablespoon of turmeric powder along with lukewarm milk and go to bed.   Ginger Ginger has natural anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects. Ginger tea with honey could help with a sore throat and alleviate sinus pressure.   Diet and Lifestyle   Following suitable dietary and lifestyle practices can help manage your sinusitis symptoms. Avoid old, heavy, and oily foods, such as yoghurt, ice-cream, deep-fried foods, etc. as they increase the quantity of Kapha. Include warm, light, and easily digestible foods in your diet. Drink plenty of warm fluids in the form of herbal teas or soups.  Avoiding having dairy products as they increase the production of mucus.  Be regular with your food and sleep.  Doing Pranayama regularly will increase the capacity of the lungs and will also clear the nasal passage. Keep away from cold and damp environments.   Ayurvedic Medicines for Sinusitis   Ayurveda prescribes various herbal medicines which are very effective in treating Sinusitis.  However, make sure that you have any Ayurvedic medicine only under the guidance of a qualified, Ayurvedic doctor.    Chyawanprash This herbal jam helps boost the immunity of the body. Having a spoonful of this medicine every day to prevent the formation of sinus infection.    Sitopaladi Churna Taking this herbal powder mixed with honey 2-3 times a day helps reduce cough and congestion.    Trikatu Churna Trikatu Churna contains ginger, black pepper and long pepper.  Having one teaspoon of this herbal powder mixed with honey after meals helps reduce Kapha and digestive capacity of the gut.   Dashamoola  Made of a combination of ten roots, Dashamoola is very effective in reducing inflammation and congestion.  It can be given in the form of powder, tablets or decoction.    Talisadi Churna Talisadi Churna is another effective herbal remedy.  Have this herbal powder mixed with honey 2 to 3 times a day.   Preventive Measures  … Continue reading Ayurvedic Treatment for Sinusitis

Unique uses of Triphala

Triphala is a combination of three fruits or herbs known as Haritaki, Bibhitaki, and Amalaki. Ayurveda refers to it as Tridoshic Rasayana – a medicine that is used to harmonize the Kapha, Vata and Pitta Doshas. There are many uses of Triphala, owing to the large number of benefits it offers!   Benefits of Triphala   Triphala has a lot of antioxidants like vitamin C that can help you stay healthy. Consuming Triphala supplements on an empty stomach before bedtime is beneficial as it assists in cleansing your internal system. It is one of the most widely used Ayurvedic medicines in the world. It is available over the counter, which means you don’t need to see a doctor or get a prescription to have this medicine.   But is Triphala good for everybody for everyday use? Let’s discuss more about it.   Throughout ancient times, Triphala has been utilized in traditional Ayurvedic medicine as a multipurpose remedy for conditions ranging from stomach aches to tooth caries. Additionally, it is thought to enhance general health and longevity. It is classified as a polyherbal remedy since it contains a variety of therapeutic plants. Ayurvedic medicine, a traditional approach emphasizing health promotion and disease prevention, extensively uses polyherbal preparations. Synergistic herb combinations are thought to have more therapeutic efficacy and be a more potent treatment than any one herb used alone. Triphala is the most marketed, most prescribed (a default item in Ayurvedic prescriptions), and often advised to take every day!   Is Triphala suitable for everyday use?   Yes, it works excellent externally – as a face wash, as a hair wash, as an eye wash, and even as a vaginal wash! See my next reel to see how to use Triphala as a wash!   Triphala is better used internally rather than externally. But is it suitable for internal use every day? No.   Continuous use of Triphala leads to – Loosening of tissues and muscles of the large intestine. – habit forming. Once you start, you won’t be able to pass bowel movements without it. – Drying up of the mucosal layer lining the large intestine.   What is the best alternative for Triphala?   If you have taken my course or my 3-month gut health program, you already know how much I love GH oil to control Vata that causes constipation. If you cannot get it, just take 2-3 ml of plain castor oil before bed. Follow up with hot water or mix with hot water. The opposite of dryness is oiliness. Using oil for constipation is far better than using any dry powders, be it Triphala, Nityam, Kayam churna, isabgol, or psyllium husk – all of which may satisfy you momentarily due to the fibre in it, but later, it leaves your tract drier so that you will need to take the same the next day to pass bowels. Triphala is a medicine. If you choose to take it internally, it must be taken with the right vehicle (milk, warm water, cold water, etc. based on condition), in the right season, and the correct quantity under a doctor’s supervision. Otherwise, don’t bother at all! Unfortunately, these days, most commercially manufactured Triphala are not made as per the proportions mentioned in the Samhitas to reduce cost!    Four unique uses of Triphala   There are four uses of Triphala.   Triphala as a hair wash for dry, itchy scalp and dandruff   Triphala is a natural remedy in Ayurveda that helps balance the Doshas in the body. It also helps keep our insides healthy, which then makes our hair and scalp healthy on the outside.   Triphala powder is beneficial for hair health as it helps to combat fungus and bacteria. It works against germs, prevents your head from itching, and reduces flaking. Triphala can also alleviate inflammation on your scalp triggered by the use of inappropriate hair products or environmental shifts. It also helps hair to grow by making follicles and roots stronger.   Amla found in Triphala aids in maintaining the natural pH balance of the scalp and promotes healthy hair. Triphala hair tonics can also help with dandruff and other skin issues. Weak and moisture-deficient, curly, and brittle hair is prone to breakage. Triphala assists in maintaining hair hydration and guarding against harm. This will leave your hair feeling soft, glossy and in excellent condition.   Triphala as a face wash for acne-prone skin   According to Ayurveda, the aggravation of Kapha leads to increased sebum production and clogging of pores. This results in the formation of both white and blackheads. An aggravation of Pitta, causes red papules (bumps) and inflammation with pus.   When it comes to treating acne and blemishes, there are various approaches that individuals can take. One natural remedy that has gained attention for its potential benefits is Triphala.   Inflammation is one of the key factors contributing to acne is inflammation. Triphala contains potent anti-inflammatory properties, which may help reduce redness and swelling associated with acne breakouts. By calming the skin and reducing inflammation, Triphala can provide relief from the discomfort often experienced with acne. Additionally, Triphala possesses antibacterial properties that may aid in fighting the bacteria responsible for causing acne. This can help prevent new blemishes from forming and promote clearer skin over time.   While individual results may vary, incorporating Triphala into a skincare routine alongside other recommended treatments may offer a holistic approach to managing acne and blemishes. Triphala gives good results in case of skin problems like acne or pimples. Its usage helps to reduce acne or pimples because of its Pitta-Kapha balancing properties.   Triphala as a vaginal douche   Pruritus vulvae is the medical term for itching in the vagina. The term “pruritus vulvae” refers to itchiness in the vicinity of the vagina. The vulva refers to the external skin surrounding the vaginal opening. Pruritus vulvae are characterized by persistent itching that can cause emotional distress. The itching may worsen in the evening and could… Continue reading Unique uses of Triphala

Why is Ayurveda called a “holistic” system of medicine?

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

Gut Health Medicines: Three Common Drugs You Should Avoid

According to Ayurveda, gut health is everything. Gut health is a crucial aspect of overall well-being, influencing various bodily functions, from digestion and nutrient absorption to immune system support and even mental health. Poor gut health is the cause of all diseases.    Many factors can impact gut health, including diet, lifestyle, and medications.     Medicines that affect your gut health     The following commonly used medicines can affect your gut health:    Metformin   Metformin is a medication commonly prescribed to individuals with type 2 diabetes. It helps control blood sugar levels by improving the body’s sensitivity to insulin and reducing the production of glucose in the liver. While it is an effective treatment for diabetes, Metformin can have several effects on gut health.    Antacids    Antacids are over-the-counter or prescription medications that help relieve heartburn, acid reflux and indigestion by neutralizing stomach acid. While they can provide short-term relief, frequent use of antacids can impact your gut health in several ways.    Antibiotics    Antibiotics are powerful medications that help treat bacterial infections by killing or inhibiting the growth of harmful bacteria. While they are essential for treating various illnesses, antibiotics can have a significant impact on gut health.    Now you know why, despite years of taking metformin and having their blood sugar controlled, people eventually get complications of diabetes like diabetic nephropathy, neuropathy, retinopathy etc.    Anti-depressants and laxatives are equally bad for gut health.    All these medicines can take your gut health months back. It is essential to be aware of their potential effects on gut health and take proactive steps to maintain a healthy digestive system.    Remember that a balanced diet, regular exercise and a healthy lifestyle also play crucial roles in supporting gut health alongside any necessary medications. By understanding the effects of these medications on your gut, you can take steps to maintain a healthy and thriving digestive system.    Let all your efforts to stay healthy be natural and safe for your gut. At the end of the day, your overall health completely depends on your gut health – Rogaa sarve api mande agnou.       Want to improve your gut health? y You can book a   consultation with us or give us a message via WhatsApp at +91 79074 89839.  You can also   visit.

Medicine Fact -What’s Really Inside Commercial Drugs

Perfect  Medicine Competition   It is a market situation where brands compete with each other purely on price. Whichever medicine brand offers a slightly lower price than the others, consumers prefer to buy from that brand.   Most of the medicine manufacturing brands (Ayurvedic & Allopathic) face this situation. This also means that manufacturers have to ‘cut corners’ to meet the pricing advantage to stay ahead of competition.   Cutting corners can happen in many fronts – by adding lesser quantities of expensive ingredients, using cheaper, look-alike alternatives, producing in bulk to achieve economies of scale reducing the quality, etc.   Doctors use an expensive ayurvedic herb, such as ativisha, to treat digestive conditions (it costs up to $49 for 10g). Most often this is replaced by its less expensive alternative ‘Musta’ in formulations manufactured commercially.   Every Ayurvedic doctor is trained to make medicines for his patients from scratch, unlike other medical systems. The government also allows licensed Ayurvedic doctors to dispense medicines made by them to their patients.   So if your Ayurvedic doctor prescribes his/ her own medicines always choose that.   It may be a little expensive, or less fancy or may not be as readily available compared to commercial brands, but there will be an ‘elephant and ant’ difference in the effectiveness.     Medicine Rights     Every patient has the right to know what goes into the medicine. Hence exercise your rights to ask your Ayurvedic doctor on the ingredients.   My pro-tip:  Ask your doctor to prescribe herbal medicines over medicines with minerals as the latter needs many levels of purification to be safe.   Ayurvedic medicine manufacturing is a multibillion-dollar industry. I am not saying all manufacturing companies do the same, however it is important to exercise caution as a patient.     You can join our Health Programs for mind and body detox. If you are struggling with any health issues, you can book a consultation with us or give us a message via WhatsApp at +91 79074 89839. If you have any queries, contact us. You can also follow me on Instagram.                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                              

Ayurvedic Herbs – The Lesser Known Facts

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!     It is just a myth that Ayurvedic herbs do not have any side-effects, though not as much pronounced/strong as other medical systems. 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. And If you are struggling with any health issues, you can book a consultation with us or give us a message via WhatsApp at +91 79074 89839. If you have any queries, contact us. You can also follow me on Instagram.