Friday 26 July 2013

CHYAVANA D STRONG: “Boon of Chyavanaprasa without the bane of sugar”

As we all know, Chyavanaprasa is a rasayana preparation which purifies and develops seven constituent tissues of the body. The word rasayana denotes a medicine for the whole body deemed to be beneficial for nearly all diseases, especially for the disorders of aging when the ability to obtain adequate nutrition and maintain vigorous functions decline.

This recipe has remained India’s most popular remedy for around 2000 years, since the times of the Vedas. According to the Charaka Samhita, Chyavanprasa is “the foremost of all rasayanas”. By using Chyavanprasa "a person acquires intelligence, memory, comeliness of body, freedom from disease, longevity, strength of the senses”.

Chyavanprasa's major ingredient is Amla, which is known as the richest source of Vitamin C and Ascorbic acid. Vitamin C is known to benefit the immune system and helps to fight against common cold and respiratory illness.

Dr. Pathrose Parathuvayalil, Chief Physician and Managing Director of Parathuvayail Hospital & Orthopaedic Centre says; Chyavana D Strong a well known product from PAM Labs India Pvt. Ltd. has all the traits of Chyavanaprasa. The only disparity is in its consistency. The usual sticky consistency of Chyavanaprasa is sometimes difficult for the patient intake. Also this new liquid form of Chyavanaprasa acts faster than semisolid jelly form and quickly gets absorbed into the bloodstream in a dissolved state. This sugar free format of Chyavanaprasa contains no added sugar so is safe for Diabetics and Pre-diabetics.

Amalaki (Amla) being the major ingredient acts as a laxative, antidiabetic, cardiac stimulant which helps in smooth functioning of the heart. It also enhances the immune system thereby reducing the incidence of common infections.Aswagandha acts as a good nervine stimulant aphrodisiac and nourishing. Draksha acts as a liver tonic, appetizer and Haematinic.Guduchi has an antipyretic anti inflammatory analgesic action. The many more natural ingredients all together prove effective in General Debility, Metabolic toxicity and compromised immune competency. Chyavana D Strong Promotes absorption of calcium, leading to stronger bones and teeth, Improves muscle tone by enhancing protein synthesis, Eases constipation, Improves memorization and concentration, Slow down the effects of ageing process,Enhances fertility and keeps menstruation regular.


As a result of these actions of all the medicines present in this preparation, Chyavana D Strong has become an exclusive preparation for restoring youthfulness. It restores the balance between Tridoshas. Dr. Pathrose also added that this medicine can be taken by diseased as well as healthy persons alike.



Tuesday 23 July 2013

A unique protocol of Ayurveda in treating Psoriasis

Psoriasis is a chronic skin problem caused by an acceleration of skin cell turnover. Normally, skin cells form in the dermis, or lower level of the skin, and then shed at the upper layer (epidermis). However, if you have psoriasis, cell turnover occurs in less than one week. As a result, dead skin cells accumulate on the epidermis, eventually creating several layers. New skin cells don’t have anywhere to go, so they can start to itch and hurt overtime.

According to the Ayurvedic concept. Psoriasis is believed to occur due to vitiation of all the three doshas (Vata, Pitta, and Kapha) in varying degree, but predominantly Vata and Kapha.
The predominance of vatha causes pain, dryness and scaling of skin. Pitha vitiation leads to burning sensation, redness, inflammation etc and that of kapha causes rashes, itching, discharge, thickening of skin etc. From these signs and symptoms, the doshic involvement is analyzed carefully in each patient, which is of utmost importance in the management of the disease.

This condition is neither infectious nor does it affect the general health. It affects both the genders and may start at any age. Psoriasis is quite common, affecting around two per cent of the population, although people with very mild symptoms may not be aware they have it. Psoriasis can begin at any age but usually starts either around the age of 20 or between 50 and 60.

Pathogenesis of Psoriasis according to Ayurveda


Irregular food habits, consumption of foodstuffs that are advised not to be eaten together (incompatible foods like dairy products with fish), excessive intake of yogurt, paneer, black gram, seafood, sour and salted items etc can activate the pathogenesis. The produced toxins accumulate in deep tissues like rasa (nutrient plasma), rakta (blood), mamsa (muscles), and laseeka (lymphatic). These toxins cause contamination of deeper tissues, leading to Psoriasis. Alcohol and tobacco consumption will act as a catalyst here. Ayurveda also emphasizes on the effect of stress in the pathogenesis of Psoriasis. Controlling natural urges, Exposure to severe climatic conditions ,Sleeping during the afternoon, Taking bath in cold water immediately after physical exertion are also causes of vitiation of Doshas which  in turn are triggering factor for psoriasis

Types


Plaque psoriasis is the most common type of psoriasis. The patches are large, and often oval-shaped. Not only do they itch, but they are also quite painful. Plaque-type psoriasis can stay for years without treatment. The scales are caused by a building up of dead skin cells. It may appear on the knees, elbows, scalp, trunk or any other skin surface.

Erythrodermic psoriasis involves the widespread inflammation and exfoliation of the skin over most of the body surface. It may be accompanied by severe itching, swelling and pain. It is often the result of an exacerbation of unstable plaque psoriasis, particularly following the abrupt withdrawal of systemic treatment.

Guttate psoriasis may appear suddenly following a bacterial or viral infection or the administration of drugs like ketoconazole and salicylic acid.  This type develops small pinkish-red patches over large areas of the body. Some of the most common areas include the arms and legs.  

Inverse psoriasis occurs within folds of the skin in the armpits, groin, under an overweight stomach or under the breasts. It appears as smooth, red lesions without scaling and may cause irritation due to rubbing and sweating.

Pustular psoriasis is the rarest form of psoriasis is characterized by blisters filled with pus on the skin. The blisters are not infectious. It may be found on the hands and feet or may be spread all over.

Nail psoriasis: produces a variety of changes in the appearance of finger and toe nails. These changes include discoloring under the nail plate, pitting of the nails, lines going across the nails, thickening of the skin under the nail, and the loosening and crumbling of the nail.

Psoriasis can also cause inflammation of the joints, which is known as Psoriatic Arthritis. 10 to 30% of people with psoriasis have Psoriatic arthritis. Sometimes pulling of one of these small dry white flakes of skin causes a tiny blood spot on the skin. This is medically referred to as a special diagnostic sign in psoriasis called the Auspitz sign. Genital lesions, especially on the head of the penis, are common. Psoriasis in moist areas like the navel or area between the buttocks (intergluteal folds) may look like flat red patches. These atypical appearances may be confused with other skin conditions like fungal infections, yeast infections, skin irritation, or bacterial Staphylococcal infections On the scalp, it may look like severe dandruff with dry flakes and red areas of skin. It may be difficult to tell the difference between scalp psoriasis and seborrhea (dandruff). However, the treatment is often very similar for both conditions.

Ayurvedic Treatment of Psoriasis


Ayurvedic treatment of psoriasis aims to rid the body of accumulated toxins. This is a protocol unique to Ayurveda and should not be undertaken without the supervision of a qualified Ayurvedic practitioner .In treating psoriasis, Ayurveda recommends a comprehensive treatment strategy that involves strengthening your digestion and detoxifying and eliminating toxins. Addressing your diet, and not only how you eat, but also when and what, is important. Herbal formulas support digestion and aid in the detoxifying process.


 Ayurvedic Management of Psoriasis comprises of:


•         Shodhana Chikitsa (Detoxification) through Panchakarma therapies,
•         Shamana Chikitsa through administration of internal medication and external applications
•         Rasayana Chikitsa (immunomodulation) through kayakalpa
•         Very strict Diet regime
•         Lifestyle changes
•         Stress management- Frequent stress can cause flare-ups, which only causes further aggravation on your part. Get plenty of rest, and look for ways to de-stress every day. Breathing exercise used in both yoga and meditation can help improve stress levels and improve your outlook on life.
Takradhara - Pouring of medicated butter Milk on forehead is also very effective in the cases of Psoriasis to manage the stress factor & releasing the positive energy to the body.

“Consumers are inclined to opt for herbal products to treat various skin conditions which are backed by sound scientific solutions for safety and efficacy. This is where PPG has an edge in terms of its credibility as they are widely-prescribed by allopathic and Ayurvedic doctors, said Dr. Pathrose Parathuvayalil, Chief Physician and Managing Director of Parathuvayail Hospital & Orthopaedic Centre. Ayurveda is a unique medicine because it not only considers your condition, but also your individual constitution. For this reason, you are well advised to consult with a certified Ayurvedic practitioner when seeking treatment. An Ayurvedic practitioner will determine the most appropriate diet, herbs and treatment protocols based on your current condition and constitution.”


Friday 19 July 2013

Marma Chikitsa: Guiding the flow of energy to create pathways of inner healing

The word “Marma” refers to vital points of subtle energy fields on the body. If applied pressure on these vital points, a flow of praanic energy is induced along complex system called nadi. Marmas are not structural organs like liver, heart or lungs. These vital points lies within the body, usually close to the skin surface, where important nerves form junctures with muscles fibers, veins, bones and joints.

Diagramatic representation of  Marma sthanas in Human body

According to Ayurveda there are total 108 Marmas in the body. The mind is considered as the 108th Marma. The other 107 Marma points are distributed among muscles, vessels, ligaments, bones and joints and are called Mamsa Marma, Sira Marma, Snayu Marma, Asthi Marma and Sandhi Marma respectively. These Marma points are centers of vitality and intelligence. They are infused with life force and imbued with consciousness. Their healing effect on the body is far reaching because they serve as ‘portals’ to the body’s inherent wisdom and healing energy.


Marma Chikitsa is basically a neuromuscular and orthopedic science. Marma Chikitsa actually releases and guides the flow of energy within the body to create pathways of inner healing. Oil therapy is an important part of the treatment, and warm medicated oils are applied in large amounts all over the body, with special focus on the Marma points and trouble spots.


Marma Chikitsa has four basic purposes. The first is to remove blocks in the energy channels. The second is to bring the doshas or the body’s vital energies into harmony. The third purpose is to remove physical, mental and emotional rigidity, whether it is rigidity of ideas, feelings or movements. Finally Marma Chikitsa presents an opportunity to experience powerful and dynamic transformation, to go outside one’s comfort zone and to explore new horizons.


Marma Chikitsa is used to treat a wide range of diseases through the most sophisticated and unmatched manipulation and massage techniques. Injury to some of these lethal Marma points can lead to instant death, so the treatment must be performed only by trained Ayurveda professionals only.


Dr. Pathrose Parathuvayalil, Chief Physician, Parathuvayalil Hospital and Orthopedic Centre is a well-known Marma Chikitsa Practitioner in Kerala. Born into a traditional Marma Vaidya family Dr. Pathrose specialised in Marma Chikitsa for his post graduation. According to him dislocation of shoulder, ankle or knee can be corrected by manipulative methods without surgical intervention. Similarly, conditions like cervical and lumbar disc prolapse, cervical spondylosis and frozen shoulder can be corrected non-surgically too. It has also been proved that paralysis and musculo-skeletal deformities can be corrected by sustained therapeutic procedures of Marma Chikitsa.


To put it in a nutshell, Marma Chikitsa is a non-invasive treatment that invokes the self-healing powers inherent in the human being. It does so by working with 108 subtle and sensitive energy points to open energy channels in the body and produces a healing effect that induces total well-being.

Orthopedic Management in Ayurveda

The cornerstone of Orthopedic practice is the correction of spinal and bony deformities which includes Musculoskeletal Injuries, Sports Injuries, Degenerative Disorders, Tumors, Infections and Congenital Disorders.
Ayurveda with the support of sophisticated diagnostic methods can offer some effective, long lasting and safe remedy for these kinds of disorders. The focus of Ayurvedic treatment is on pacification of the aggravated Dosha by improving digestion and enhancing the digestive fire. This treatment is followed by administration of herbal medicines that foster rejuvenation of diseased body tissues.


Despite lot of research and effort, an effective cure is still not possible in Modern Medicine. All that can be offered are the high dose Anti inflammatory drugs and Analgesics. New and improved treatments are helping those with the most severe pain; however surgery remains a big question for many people.

Dr. Pathrose Parathuvayalil, Chief Physician, Parathuvayalil Hospital and Orthopedic Centre, Kerala and the winner of Kerala Govt.’s Vagbhata award for the Best Doctor emphasizes that the integration of Ayurveda and Allopathy can create a wonderful solution to the existing Orthopedic problems in a better and effective manner. For example Simple fractures can be well managed by closed reduction manipulation and immobilization in Ayurveda. Whereas in Open fracture, broken skin and overlying soft tissues are prone to infection needs Allopathic attention. Also fractures with vascular and neural injuries, where internal or external fixations are indicated need an immediate emergency care. After the fracture gets healed, stiffness of the affected part is a common problem observed in post operative period. Medicated Thaila/Khsheera Dhara, Lepanam along with suitable internal medications in Ayurveda conjoined with Physiotherapy can offer good result here.

Discectomy is indicated in Intervertebral Disc Prolapse where multiple nerve entrapment has occurred. Post Discectomy, Ayurveda therapies which are directed towards relieving the inflammatory changes, releasing the spasms in the affected area, strengthening the supportive tissues holding the spine and nourishing the vertebrae through improving circulation can be done. “Not all treatments work for everyone or are appropriate for everyone;” says Dr. Pathrose; “Patients and their doctors have to weigh very heavily the pros and cons of each option”.

Monday 15 July 2013

What’s a hernia?

Imagine a barrel with a hole. If it’s inflated, balloon bulges through the hole. The balloon bulging through the hole is like tissues of abdomen bulging through the hernial orifice

Protrusion of tissues of our body through a weakened muscle is called hernia. The word "hernia" is derived from a Latin word meaning "rupture". Factors that lead to Hernia may be inherited and develop as the individual grows. Relative risk of developing hernia over a life time depends on arrangement, thickness and strength of the tissues.

Abdominal hernia is typically a harmless condition; it can be further classified into umbilical hernia and inguinal hernia. Hernia occurs as a localized, painful or painless swelling depending on the amount of pressure on the abdomen. Uncomplicated hernia can be principally repaired by pushing back or reducing the herniated tissue and then repairing the muscle tissue by medical and surgical procedures. Any hernia that causes inflammation, strangulation hemorrhage at the swollen site may require immediate surgical intervention.

Significance of using abdominal binder during periods

Speak up women..! This is no more a curse...Healthy regular menstrual cycle is a signal of good health. Will abdominal binder help or hype the situation?

Uterine contractions occur throughout menstrual cycle. Uterus press against nearby blood vessels cutting of oxygen supply to the uterine muscles which results in pain.  So wearing an abdominal binder will have a smooth counter effect on uterine contractions. It will be much more comfortable than a heat pad or heat compress like hot water bottle which are popularly used. Also symptoms like low back ache, bloated abdomen can be well managed by wearing a binder which relaxes and release the muscle tension in hips, back and abdomen just like a gentle massage.

Uterus being a smooth muscle like arteries and bladder, pain is more undefined and deep. So tightness of the binder is mandatory at the same time binder should not be excessively tight because this will have an adverse effect. Ideal tightness should be slightly relaxed than normal (If you are already using an abdominal binder).

In addition to rest and warm water bath, having that support of a good quality abdominal binder does make a difference on how you feel...

Can Abdominal Binder be used as a preventive measure in Abdominal Hernia?

Abdominal hernia is typically a harmless condition. People who are engaged in lifting heavy weights and those who are having persistent coughing and sneezing are more susceptive to experience  intra abdominal pressure thereby causing hernia to bulge. Furthermore conditions like Ascitis (fluid in the abdominal cavity), central obesity, chronic constipation and strain during a bowel movement may also cause or worsen the existing hernias are indicated to use abdominal binder.

Weight gain during pregnancy put stress on weak areas of abdominal wall causing hernia to bulge out. Some hernias have or develop very large hernial orifices in the abdominal wall, and closing the orifices or openings is not possible because of its large size. Here in these cases it is advisable to wear an abdominal binder which prevents the hernia from protruding through weak abdominal wall. These kinds of hernias may be treated without surgery using abdominal binders.

Benefits of In-Shape in post-delivery care

It is the wish of every woman to recoup her good shape after pregnancy. Following the 9 months of carrying a baby’s weight, her spine will slightly curve. An abdominal binder aid in supporting the body so that the spine can straighten and posture gets corrected.

Wearing In-Shape elastic abdominal binder after delivery can help to reshape the mother’s body and regain its pre-pregnancy shape more effectively. It is quite easy to put on and soft and comfortable to wear.  In- Shape provides 360 degree support to assist in abdominal wall and pelvic bone muscles retraction, stabilize loosened ligaments, and provide support to the torso while vital organs returned to their pre-pregnancy position. Wearing In- Shape also resolves leakage of urine on coughing, sneezing and laughing.

Start to wear In-Shape after 7 days of normal delivery or 3-5 weeks after a caesarean. One of the major benefits of abdominal binding after delivery is that it can help to speed up recovery after a caesarean section. The girdle supports the muscles around the incision site and therefore helps to reduce pain. So fairly snug and wrap your binder across mid and lower belly and enjoy your time with new cheery sunshine.

A medical perspective of using abdominal binders after delivery

ABDOMINAL BINDING is an ancient Ayurvedic postpartum ritual with helps new moms in regaining their pre pregnancy body and flatten their tummy after delivery. Growing foetus and increasing baby weight put pressure on abdominal muscle which stretches as much as 50%. Birth trauma, sleep deprivation and imbalanced digestion during and after the child birth seriously damage the ‘Vata’ humor thereby weakening the firmness of your belly muscles. Having a physical support around your lower ‘chakras’ helps you to regain energy sooner.

According to Ayurveda tummy wrap improves digestion and elimination, aid body in rebuilding connective tissues, support organs, decreases bloating feels, nourishing and provide comfortable support along with regaining shape. These wraps which act like a compression garment supports the area allowing free blood circulation to happen. This speeds up the process of eliminating extra fluid and shrinking back with constant pressure on abdomen thus reducing the recovery time.

Type of material used for a binder is important to ensure a rash does not develop. A combination of thin cotton and elastic with a Velcro is ideal for the new mother so that they can be comfortably worn under clothes. Binder should be tied as tightly as possible but not too tight to cut off circulation. Minimum 12 hours wearing is advised that too as early as in first week after giving birth.  This can be continued up to 6 months or longer until results are seen. In- Shape elastic abdominal binder is highly recommended in this. In- Shape, manufactured in strict conformation to British Pharmacopeia standards of elasticity, porosity and weight per unit area is scientifically proven and synonymous to abdominal binders in Indian market.

Though my baby is out, I’m surprised with the way my tummy looks!

Belly after baby: A major concern of new moms is to regain their pre pregnancy body and flatten their tummy after delivery.  The cells that swelled up during pregnancy eliminate extra fluid through urine, vaginal secretions and sweat. Growing foetus and increasing baby weight put pressure on abdominal muscle which stretches as much as 50%.

The extra fat that put on to nourish the baby takes at least a few weeks to burn off. Hormonal changes cause your uterus to contract, shrinking it back to pre-pregnancy state. It took 9 months to stretch and accommodate a full term baby, so it makes sense that it would take at least that long to tighten back. Speed and degree of regaining shape depends on your normal body size, how much weight you gained and how active you are. Practically, the belly after baby condition seems to continue all through.

Ayurveda suggests so many post-partum rituals to resolve this. It ranges from bitter decoctions to oils and ghee for external application. Now a days busy bee moms are not getting enough time and convenience to observe all those. In- Shape elastic abdominal binder from Dr. Pathrose Parathuvayalil Group is an excellent advancement to address this issue. It acts as a safe post-partum wrap which can be tied around your belly. For further instructions on how to you In- Shape, visit www.inshape.in.

Shape your confidence with In-Shape Elastic Abdominal Binder from Dr. Pathrose Parathuvayalil


Shape your confidence with In-Shape Elastic Abdominal Binder from Dr. Pathrose Parathuvayalil. In-Shape is scientifically made, clinically tested and easy to use in reducing your tummy.

Dr. Pathrose Parathuvayalil bags Vagbhata Award for the best Ayurveda Doctor

Dr. Pathrose Parathuvayalil, Chief Physician, Parathuvayalil Hospital and Orthopedic Center, Keezhillam, Kochi has been honored with the prestigious Vagbhata Award for the Best Ayurveda Doctor in 2012 by the Government of Kerala.


The Award was presented to Dr. Pathrose by Mr. V.S. Sivakumar, Minister for Health and Devaswom, Government of Kerala, at a dignified ceremony presided over by Mr. K. Muraleedharan MLA, Sri A.T. George MLA, industry experts and several dignitaries from across the state attended the event held at Kanakakunnu Palace, Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala.


Dr. Pathrose Parathuvayalil is the Chairman of 'Dr. Pathrose Parathuvayalil Group' (PPG) of concerns which has multifarious interest in a number of enterprises including the much acclaimed abdominal binder In-Shape which reign the market over the years. The Group's Pharmaceutical Division Pam Labs India Health Care Pvt. Ltd. is the only Indian Ayurveda pharmaceutical company recognized by the Department of Health, Sultanate of Oman, for supplying medicines across the Middle East. Dr. Pathrose' own innovation- 'Pizhichil Machine' has revolutionized the efficacy of Pizhichil- the massage therapy in Ayurveda for various rheumatic indications.


Born into a traditional Vaidya (traditional medical practitioners) family, Dr Pathrose has completed his medical education at Govt. Ayurveda Medical College, Thiruvananthapuram with a meritorious First Rank from the University of Kerala in the year 1970. Dr Pathrose is the first Post Graduate Ayurveda Physician in Kayachiktsa and Marmachikitsa (General Medicine and Orthopedics) in Kerala.