Key Practices in Ayurveda

Learning about Ayurveda offers valuable insights into achieving a balanced and healthy lifestyle. By understanding its principles and practices, you can enhance your well-being and cultivate a deeper connection with your body and mind.
Haritaki (Indian Gallnut or Terminalia chebula)

How Milk and Haritaki Benefit Your Skin

The pursuit of fairer, more radiant skin has been a prominent aspect of beauty and skincare across various cultures. In recent years, there has been a notable shift towards natural remedies, driven by a growing awareness of the potential side effects associated with synthetic skincare products. This trend has led to an increased interest in traditional methods and ingredients that have stood the test of time.

Among these natural remedies, milk and Haritaki (Indian gallnut or Terminalia chebula) have gained significant attention, particularly due to their endorsement by Rajiv Dixit, a respected figure in the promotion of natural health practices. Dixit, along with the extensive knowledge base of Ayurveda, has highlighted the efficacy of these ingredients in promoting skin brightness and overall health.

Do's and Don'ts of Drinking Water: Ayurvedic Insights

Do’s and Don’ts of Drinking Water

Ayurveda offers specific guidelines regarding water consumption during and around meal times, emphasizing its impact on digestion and overall health. Here are the key points based on Ayurvedic perspectives:

Drinking Water Before Meals

-Avoid Water Before Meals: Ayurveda suggests that drinking water before meals can dilute gastric juices, impairing digestion. This dilution can lead to weaker digestive fire, which is crucial for breaking down food effectively.

Drinking Water During Meals

– Sip Water During Meals: It is generally recommended to drink water in small sips during meals rather than gulping it down. This practice helps to moisten food, making it easier to digest.

nighttime-routine

Key activities before going to sleep

To establish a calming nighttime routine based on Ayurvedic principles, consider the following key activities:

1. Establish a Consistent Sleep Schedule
Commit to going to bed and waking up at the same time every day, ideally before 10 PM. This aligns with the Kapha cycle, which promotes relaxation and deeper sleep.

2. Gentle Evening Meal
Eat your largest meal at midday and have a lighter dinner at least two hours before bedtime. This aids digestion and prevents discomfort during sleep.

3. Engage in Gentle Movement
A peaceful walk after dinner can help calm the mind and support digestion. Gentle stretching or yoga poses like Child’s Pose can also be beneficial.

Ayurvedic morning routine

Must include activities in your morning routine

Wake Up Early

– Aim to wake up before sunrise, ideally between 4:30-6am depending on your dosha (Vata, Pitta, Kapha).
– Take a few deep breaths and express gratitude before getting out of bed.

Cleanse and Eliminate

– Drink a glass of warm water with lemon to stimulate digestion and elimination.
– Evacuate bowels, ideally at the same time each morning.
– Scrape tongue to remove toxins and stimulate digestion.
– Brush teeth and rinse mouth.

Risk of Monkey Pox in India: WHO Instructions and Indian Gov Guidelines

Monkey pox is a zoonotic viral disease that shares similarities with smallpox, albeit presenting with less severity. Historically, this pathogen was discovered in 1958 when outbreaks occurred in monkeys kept for research, hence the name “monkey pox.” The first recorded human case was identified in 1970 in the Democratic Republic of the Congo. Since then, monkey pox has been documented in various regions, particularly in Central and West Africa, making it a prominent concern due to its potential for widespread transmission.

The virus responsible for monkey pox belongs to the Orthopoxvirus genus, and it primarily spreads through direct contact with infected animals, human-to-human transmission, and in rare cases, contaminated materials. Animal vectors include various mammals such as rodents and primates, emphasizing the zoonotic aspect of the disease. Human transmission occurs via respiratory droplets during prolonged face-to-face contact, direct contact with bodily fluids, and contact with lesion materials. Notably, the incubation period typically ranges from 7 to 14 days, while symptoms manifest in two distinct phases: the invasion period featuring fever, intense headache, lymphadenopathy, and muscle aches, followed by a skin eruption period marked by a rash that evolves from maculopapules to vesicles and pustules, often leading to scabs.

kida-jadi

Kidajadi: The Hidden Gem of the Himalayas

Kidajadi, also known as the caterpillar fungus or Ophiocordyceps sinensis, is a rare and valuable medicinal fungus found in the high-altitude regions of the Himalayas, particularly in the Indian state of Arunachal Pradesh. This unique organism has gained global attention for its remarkable properties and the economic opportunities it presents for local communities.

The Fascinating Life Cycle of Kidajadi

The caterpillar fungus infects certain moth larvae in the Himalayan grasslands. During the summer months of May and June, as the snow melts and grasses emerge, the fungus consumes the insect from within. The infected larvae bore upwards towards the surface, and by the time they reach the ground, the fungus sprouts from their heads, forming a slender, dark stem. This entire structure, consisting of the skeletal remains of the insect and the fungal stem, is harvested for its medicinal uses.

Sugar-salt

Invisible Danger: Microplastics in Indian Salt and Sugar Brands

Microplastics are diminutive plastic fragments that measure less than 5 millimeters in diameter. They originate from the degradation of larger plastic debris as well as from the direct release of small plastic particles through products like exfoliants and washing clothing made from synthetic fibers. These minute plastic particles have found their way into a myriad of environments, including oceans, freshwater systems, and even the soil, and unfortunately, they are now becoming a prominent contaminant in food products, including staple items like salt and sugar.

The production of microplastics begins with either a physical breakdown of larger plastic items or industrial processes. The former occurs when large plastic waste, exposed to environmental stresses such as UV radiation, wave action, and mechanical abrasion, deteriorates into smaller fragments over time. Moreover, microplastics are also directly produced and intentionally added to various consumer products, such as in the case of microbeads found in personal care products.

Gov-Ayurvedic-promotions

Gov. Initiatives to Promote Ayurvedic, Organic, and Herbal Products

Ayurvedic, organic, and herbal products have been an integral part of Indian culture for centuries, reflecting a deep-rooted connection to nature and holistic wellness. Ayurveda, an ancient system of medicine originating in India over 3,000 years ago, emphasizes the balance of body, mind, and spirit through natural remedies. Ayurvedic products include a wide range of formulations, from herbal supplements to skincare and wellness solutions, all derived from natural ingredients.

Organic products, on the other hand, are cultivated and processed without the use of synthetic chemicals, pesticides, or genetically modified organisms (GMOs). This approach ensures that the products are environmentally sustainable and beneficial for health. Organic farming practices, which have been part of traditional Indian agriculture, are gaining renewed attention as consumers become more health-conscious and environmentally aware.

DRUM-STICK.jpg

The Incredible Benefits of Moringa: Nature’s Miracle Tree

Moringa, scientifically known as Moringa oleifera, is often referred to as the ‘Miracle Tree’ or ‘Drumstick Tree.’ This remarkable plant originates from the sub-Himalayan regions of India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, and Afghanistan. Historically, Moringa has been a cornerstone in traditional medicine, utilized for its numerous health benefits and holistic properties. Over the centuries, it has gained recognition and reverence for its ability to thrive in harsh climates, making it a resilient and fast-growing superfood.

In traditional medicine, Moringa has been used to treat a variety of ailments. Its leaves, seeds, pods, and roots are all known to possess medicinal properties. The plant is rich in essential vitamins and minerals, such as Vitamin C, calcium, potassium, and iron. These nutrients contribute to its effectiveness in boosting immunity, enhancing energy levels, and supporting overall well-being. Its use in Ayurveda and other traditional healing practices underscores its longstanding significance.

Triphala Ayurvedic fruits

How to Make Trifala Powder at Home: A Step-by-Step Guide

Trifala powder, a cornerstone of Ayurvedic medicine, has been revered for centuries for its potent health benefits. Originating from ancient India, this traditional herbal blend is composed of three key ingredients: Amla (Emblica officinalis), Haritaki (Terminalia chebula), and Bibhitaki (Terminalia bellirica). Each of these components contributes unique properties that collectively create a powerful, synergistic effect.

Amla, commonly known as Indian gooseberry, is rich in vitamin C and antioxidants. It is believed to support digestive health, enhance immune function, and promote healthy skin. Haritaki, often called the “king of medicines” in Ayurveda, is lauded for its potential to improve digestion, cleanse the body, and support overall vitality. Bibhitaki, the third ingredient, is known for its detoxifying properties and its ability to support respiratory health.