Understanding Hiccups

Hiccups are a sudden, involuntary squeezing of the diaphragm, the main breathing muscle under the lungs. In medicine it is known as synchronous diaphragmatic flutter (SDF), or singultus. The hiccup involves a reflex arc. Once triggered, the reflex causes a strong contraction of the diaphragm followed about 0.25 seconds later by closure of the vocal cords, which results in the classic "hic" sound. Hiccups will usually stop on their own.

Most simple cases of hiccups come after eating or drinking too much or too quickly. The stomach, which is situated right below the diaphragm, becomes distended and irritates it.


Sometimes hiccups will occur because of a disturbance to the nerve pathways from the brain to the muscles involved. This explains why hiccups may occur with temperature changes or emotional situations. Alcohol and excess smoking also trigger hiccups sometimes.

Persistent hiccups may signify problems in the brain, spinal cord or any of the structures around the diaphragm or chest wall. Continuous hiccups lasting for more than a day or two may indicate a cause of an underlying disease, which needs medical intervention.

Ayurveda considers hiccups as a respiratory disorder called "Hidma". Acharyas have mentioned a lot of preparations in the treatment of this condition. The treatment principle is to tone up the "Pranavaha Srothas". Pranavaha srotas refers to the pulmonology complex of the human body which includes the heart, trachea, pulmonary vessels, lungs and its associated structures.

Christmas tree syndrome

Though the name given to the condition - Christmas tree syndrome - sounds frightful, thankfully, it is usually not much more than an allergy. Earlier, it was thought that the allergy was due to the pollen from the Christmas tree. Researchers have now found that the allergy results from exposure to certain mould that enter the house along with the tree and thrive in the warm environments. These mould have been associated earlier with respiratory allergies. They could be a particularly significant problem in colder regions, where people cannot keep their windows open for adequate ventilation. Researchers found that the concentration of the spores increases to a more than sufficient level to cause a respiratory allergy if the tree is kept indoors for two weeks.

The symptoms of Christmas tree syndrome are similar to other allergies. These include:

• Runny nose
• Cough
• Eye watering

People with asthma could also suffer from an attack. The symptoms may be particularly worse when the person is close to the tree. People who have a tendency towards developing allergy may be more susceptible and should watch out for such symptoms.

Diagnosis and Treatment of Christmas Tree Syndrome

A person who suffers allergic symptoms especially when he is close to a Christmas tree may be suffering from Christmas tree syndrome, though it may not always be possible to pinpoint the cause of the allergy in some cases.Christmas tree syndrome is treated like any other allergy using antihistamines. People who suffer from asthma attacks due to the exposure should take anti-asthma medications.


Prevention of Christmas Tree Syndrome

Of course, if you are allergic to Christmas trees, it does not mean that you will never see another Christmas tree in your house again. Some suggestions to deal with the problem are:

• Use an artificial tree instead of a real one. Artificial trees look equally beautiful and do not cause the same allergy (unless, of course, if they are covered with dust). You may even be doing a good deed to the environment by opting for an artificial tree.

• If you insist on a natural one, researchers suggest that you can wash down and dry the tree before it enters your house, and you should also get rid of it as soon as possible, preferably before a fortnight.

(Courtesy: medindia)

Tired All The Time?

Feeling exhausted is so common that it has its own acronym, TATT, which stands for ‘tired all the time’.There are lots of health complaints that can make you feel tired. Not just the well-recognized ones like anemia and thyroid problems, but also more surprising ailments, such as diabetes and food intolerance. Being overweight or underweight can cause tiredness. That’s because your body has to work harder than normal to do everyday activities. If you’re underweight, you have less muscle strength, and you may feel tired more quickly. Pregnancy, especially in the first 12 weeks, can also sap your energy. Psychological causes of tiredness

Psychological tiredness is far more common than tiredness that's caused by a physical problem. One key reason is anxiety, which can cause insomnia and in turn lead to persistent fatigue. A survey by the Mental Health Foundation found that nearly a third of the populations are severely sleep-deprived, often because of job and money worries.

The worries and strains of daily life can be exhausting, even positive events, such as moving house or getting married. And emotional shock, such as bad news, bereavement or the break-up of a relationship, can make you feel drained. Mental health problems such as depression or anxiety can make you feel more tired. They can also prevent you from getting a proper night's sleep.

Tiredness can often be attributed to lifestyle factors, such as drinking too much alcohol, or having a bad diet. If you drink alcohol in the evening, it tends to wake you in the middle of the night. And if you drink a lot regularly, it can make you depressed and affect your sleep. If you have a disturbed sleep pattern – for instance if you work night shifts, sleep in the day or look after young children – it can be difficult to get a good night’s sleep, and you’ll feel tired during the day.

How to tackle tiredness through Ayurveda?

Dr. Pathrose, Chief Physician Parathuvayalil hospital & Orthopedic Centre say, tiredness is caused due to decreased strength. A persons strength (Bala) is based on his digestive fire (Agnibala).Decreased agni leads to deprivation of Strength. Therefore the treatment principle is administration of medicines which induces Agnibala ie Agnideepana drugs. Apart from treatment patient is advised to adopt healthy lifestyle habit .Practicing yoga and pranayama are also beneficial in relieving fatigue. Medicines like Aswagandharishtam and Aswagandhadi leham are usually indicated in fatigue. A special medicine prepared under the guidance of Dr. Pathrose called Chyavana D Strong is indicated in general debility and compromised immuno competency. Many of its ingredients are Agni deepana and bala vardhaka. Psychological tiredness can be addressed according to the clinical history and condition of the patient.

No Mother? Do not worry so long as you have Thriphala

This is a popular folk saying in India about the wonder drug Thriphala and its nutritive value which it makes more of a tonic.

What is Thriphala?

The name Thriphala means, “Three fruits”. This refers to the three components that form the supplement, which are Emblica officinalis, Terminalia chebula and Terminalia bellerica. These components are all known medicinal plants that have long been used in Ayurveda medicine.

Emblica officinalis (also known as amalaki or Indian gooseberry) is known for its laxative and purgative properties. It is also extremely high in vitamin C, which boosts the immune system. The herb also aids in healing and blood clotting functions. It also breaks down fat accumulations and serum cholesterol.

Terminalia chebula (also known as haritaki) is a mild and safe laxative. It prevents blood clotting and improves stomach and digestive function. Terminalia chebula is commonly used to correct nutritional imbalances and streamline digestion.

Terminalia belerica (also known as vibhitaki) is another Ayurveda laxative. Additionally, it is beneficial to wound healing and has the ability to reduce fevers.

Because of its high nutritional content, Ayurvedic doctors generally do not regard Thriphala as a mere laxative. Some of the scientific research and practical experience of people using it down through the ages has demonstrated that Thriphala is an effective blood purifier that stimulates bile secretion as it detoxifies the liver, helps digestion and assimilation, and significantly reduces serum cholesterol and lipid levels throughout body. As a result, it is regarded as a kind of universal panacea and is the most commonly prescribed herbal formula.

How Thriphala benefits weight loss?

It is used for a variety of purposes, but now that it is known that Thriphala benefits weight loss, one of the most common uses has become weight control. Thriphala benefits weight loss by creating an environment where the body is able to process and excrete wastes and toxins freely and often.Thriphala powder when taken with honey proves good results in treating obesity since both have lekhana property.There are no universal standard of how to use this medicine. Frequency and dosing may vary from person to person depending on your health, goals and tolerance. Thriphala acts as a laxative which can relieve constipation while fighting inflammation of the digestive system. In addition to acting as a laxative, Thriphala weight loss supplements have been shown to lower cholesterol. Lower cholesterol is a health goal of many people, especially those who are carrying extra weight. Thriphala benefits by cleansing metabolic waste from the body and acting as a non-addictive laxative. Once toxins and excess water have been removed, weight loss will be inevitable. Today Thriphala supplements are available over the counter in powder or tablet form, making it easy to acquire and use.



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Manage Bell's palsy through Ayurveda

Bell’s palsy is a form of temporary facial paralysis that causes sudden weakness in facial muscles as a result of damage or trauma to the facial nerve.

The actress Katie Holmes 's signature smirk is a side effect of Bell's Palsy.

The facial nerve, on its way from the brain stem , the junction between the brain and the spinal cord , passes through a narrow bony passage close to the ear. At times of lowered immunity, a dormant virus, usually the chicken pox or cold sore virus can wake up and attack the nerve causing it to swell. The result of the swelling is a constriction of the facial nerve inside that narrow bony passage, which in turn causes the paralysis.Sometimes this can be triggered by an event like trauma such as skull fracture or facial injury. Facial palsy can also occur in association with high blood pressure, diabetes, and tumors.

Bell's palsy can strike anyone, of any age, gender or race, and although it's classified as a "rare" illness, it is common enough that about one in 60 people will experience an episode at some time in their life. The very good news is that most people make a full recovery within the space of a few months.

The thousands of endings into which the facial nerve eventually divides are embedded in cheeks, forehead, lips and eyelids.This was responsible for every emotion from a smile, and a wink to a frown.In facial palsy no matter how hard the brain tries to send messages, from that one point of swelling onwards the face beyond sits there in blissful radio silence cut off and stranded.The paralysis makes half of the face appear to droop.Smile will be one-sided, and the eye on that side resists closing. Symptoms can vary from person to person and range in severity from mild weakness to total paralysis. Problems with eating or drinking, impaired speech, an altered or reduced sense of taste, increased sensitivity to sound in the affected ear are the symptoms noted on facial palsy.

According to Ayurveda Bells palsy is correlated as "Ardhita" which is a well known type of disease which has an exclusive involvement of vata dosha in its pathogenesis. The facial nerve manifests the maximum number of symptom and hence it is frequently compared to facial nerve palsy. Medicines like Dhanadanayanadi and Maharasnadi kashayam are usually indicated. External therapies like Thalam, Abhyangam or massaging face with medicated oils like Ksheerabala, Karpasathyadi tailam etc are used according to the clinical condition. Kseeradhoomam is a special type of procedure where the face is fomented with steam of medicated milk or decoctions. Siropichu and Sirovasthy are the head treatments having excellent result in the management of Facial palsy. Among them Sirovasthy( retaining of medicated oil over head for a prescribed period of time )is the important treatment explained in Ayurveda treatment of Ardhita. Nasyam (nasal application) Kabalam (retaining of medicine inside mouth) karnapooranam (application of medicine in the ear) are the other treatments usually indicated in treating Ardhita. Rasayanas like lasunam and Bhallataka are effective in treating Ardhita.Dr. Pathrose, Chief Physician, Parathuvayalil Hospital &Orthopedic Centre, says “the nerve, over the time, is able to recover and regenerate through Ayurveda procedures unless the treatment is done under proper guidance of a medical practitioner.

Certain facial exercises are useful in accelerating the rate of recovery. Since it aggravates vata Patient is advised to avoid cold exposure . Bubble gum chewing is effective as an exercise. Another simple exercise which can be suggested is asking the patient to smile and frown for 10 times at a stretch.

Although it can seem frightening at first, most people with Bell's palsy recover fully within 1 to 3 months."Dealing with a condition like Bell's palsy it's important to eat well and get lots of sleep. Good nutrition and rest will help body to heal itself " Dr. Pathrose added.

Keep Vata at a bay to stay young

Our skin tends to become rough, dry, and irritated during certain seasons especially during winter and with age. According to Ayurveda, it happens due to the accumulation of Vata in the body. Vata predominates in early Winter, and in people over the age of 50. When there is excess Vata, we are prone to dry skin, cracking joints, thinning dry hair, and brittle nails. Vata can also show up in the body earlier if you're really stressed, have a Vata disturbing diet or live in a Vata inducing climate (cold and dry). The secret to staying young is keeping Vata at bay.  Let’s see how we can slow down Vata accumulation and ways to help you stay young and keep your skin beautiful throughout Winter.
  
1. Stick to high-water content vegetables that are easier to digest, such as lettuce, carrot, cucumber, radish, fennel, and tender asparagus tips. These vegetables are good for all types of skin.

2. Adding seeds and nuts into your diet will improve the condition of your skin. Both traditional and Ayurveda medicine agree that Vata is drying by nature so all foods that have natural healthy fats in them will prevent this imbalance. Nuts and seeds are a perfect food they contain Omega-3s, healthy fats, and fiber to help digestion

3.Stay hydrated throughout the day and give preference to warm liquids, such as herbal tea. Making some spicy tea with fresh ginger and lemon will wake you up in the afternoon and keep your digestion healthy, which is important for glowing skin.

4. Exercising is necessary in preventing cold Vata from accumulating. Ayurveda advises exercising to keep your muscles and joints healthy and toned, while helping you sweat out toxins. Exercise will also improve blood circulation, digestion, and give you a healthy blush! Choose the type of exercise that makes you feel good and gives you energy without exhausting you. Whether it is walking, jogging, dancing, yoga, or boxing you should enjoy it and have fun moving your body. 

5. Meditation and breathing can be very effective stress busters that you might want to consider. High levels of emotional and mental stress are one of the major reasons why Vata gets aggravated. It literally sucks out all the vital juices from your skin making it dehydrated.

6. Adequate sleep is a must for healthy skin. Aggravated Vata often causes restlessness which can lead to insomnia. Any skin care professional or Ayurveda doctor will agree on the fact that getting at least seven hours of sleep is a good thing when it comes to having a healthy and glowing complexion. If you have trouble falling asleep, try a full yogic breathing described above or use this one before going to bed.

7. Taking care of your skin from the outside, Staying hydrated on the inside is important but you shouldn't forget about taking care of your skin from the outside as well. Cleansing and moisturizing are the most crucial to keeping your skin healthy and young. An oil massage is the best remedy for dry skin. Abhyanga, a full body oil massage, calms the mind, leaving you feeling grounded yet focused and alert, and balances emotions. For the best absorption, Elaadi oil applied 2-3 times a week before bath makes skin feel very smooth and healthy. According to Dr. Pathrose Parathuvayalil, Chief physician, Parathuvayalil Hospital & Orthopedic center , Abhyanga stimulates healthy blood circulation, lymph drainage,& reduces water retention in the body thereby prevents vata accumulation and help us to stay young forever.

Patrapotalaswedam : A Herbal Sudation Procedure

Patrapotalaswedam refers to sudation or ooshma sweda performed by specifically prepared medicinal leaves.The word ‘Patrapotala’ is derived from two words ‘patra’ means leaves and ‘potali’ means bundle.This procedure is commonly known as ‘Elakizhi' or ‘Pachakizhi’ in Malayalam.This type ooshma swedana procedure comes under poorva karma (preparatory procedure) before starting Panchakarma (5 purificatory process) in Ayurveda.

The leaves of Arka (Calotropis gigantea), Karanja (Pongamia glabra), Dhatura (Datura metel), Eranda (Ricinus communis), etc of vatahara property are generally used for the preparation of the bundle.Leaves are chopped and mixed with grated coconut and rock salt.Rock salt helps in quick absorption of medicinal property by the body during the procedure.The proportion of the ingredients varies according to the symptoms of the disease.The mixture is warmed in a pan smeared with medicated oil and then tied up in 4 linen bundles to be used for the fomentation.

During the procedure the patient is comfortably made to lie on his/her back on the treatment table. Oil is applied on his head (Thalam) and the body and mild massage (Abhyanga) is given. The poultices are made warm by dipping them in the medicated oil on a gentle fire and applying them on the body placed in 7 different postures, 5-10 minutes in each posture. After the treatment, the patient is advised to take rest for few minutes and hot water bath is given after the rest.

Arthritic conditions, lumbago, cervical spondylosis, frozen shoulder, sciatica, pain and stiffness of joints, post paralytic spasm, other spastic and inflammatory conditions shows proven results with Patrapotalaswedam.

Janu basti : An effective solution for Osteo Arthritis Knee

The term ‘janu’ denotes ‘janu sandhi’ meaning knee joint and ‘basti’ meaning to reside to abide or to retain. This means janu basti is a procedure done on knee joint where medicine is made to retain over the knee for a prescribed time. This procedure is evolved from Shirovasti procedure where oil is retained in head for a prescribed period.

This procedure comes under Baahyasamana Chikitsa (External therapy). On the basis of mode of application Baahyasamana procedures are of different types such as

1. Abyanga which means massaging

2. Sekam or Dhara meaning pouring type

3. Pichu or Aalepa meaning just application type

4. Basti/kabala/ Gandoosha where medicine is retained

In this procedure the healing property of the medicated oil used are especially useful to restore the lubricant fluid in the joint and maintain integrity of the structures involved in the joint.

In Janu Basti two Basti Puta are prepared on the two Knee joints .This can be planned for one knee joint alone  if only one of the joint is involved in the disease process. The main precaution to be taken in this procedure is to stabilize the knee joints so that these could not swing internally or externally. The patient is made to lie on his back on the Droni. Circular ridge made of black gram paste is built up on the Knee Joint. The ring should be of such a size that it covers the whole knee joint.After ensuring that the ring is leak-proof, lukewarm medicinal oil, which alleviates pain and strengthens the joint, is slowly poured into it. The oil used will be according to the clinical condition of the patient.When the oil cools down, it is squeezed out with cotton gauze and the procedure is repeated a few times may be in every 5 minutes.The oil and the receptacle are kept on for about half an hour. After removing them, the affected area may be gently massaged with the same oil. The patient is then made to take rest for a short while.

The healing property of herbal oil used for this basti deeply clean and fortify the blood, build strong muscle and connective tissue, and lubricate the joint especially in treating Osteo arthritis and other knee related diseased conditions.

Benefits of Takra dhara in Ayurveda

The word 'Takra' means butter milk and 'Dhara' means pouring. Dhara with medicated  butter milk is called as  Takra dhara. This is similar to Shiro dhara  but buttermilk is poured onto  the forehead, instead of  herbal oil. Takra dhara involves continuous flow of medicated butter milk to the centre of forehead continuously.

Takra dhara should be done in the prescribed time and duration. After giving head massage medicated Buttermilk is poured in an uninterrupted flow from a hanging vessel to the forehead and scalp.Usually materials like Amalaki choornam , Mustha and Milk are used for the preparation of Takra.Normally the course of the treatment is of 7-14 days and the duration each day is of 45-90 minutes depending on the clinical condition of the patient.

Buttermilk is supposed to have tremendous cooling properties and induces the same to the brain with the intent of relaxing the mind and reducing mental stress.Ayurveda suggests this treatment especially for psychosomatic disorders like psoriasis. It is also a favorite  therapy for people who  complain of migraines and  other specific Pitta disorders,  where cooling and refreshing  therapies are recommended. Apparently this is very commonly used treatment for Vata predominant diseases like Alzheimer’s, insomnia, stress related problems, hypertension etc.

It prevents graying of the hair and hair fall, reduces headaches, increases digestive power and alleviates anorexia. In cases of psoriasis, Dhara is performed on the affected area to have a curative effect. Also this proves very effective in treating scalp problems like dandruff. This treatment relaxes and revitalizes the central nervous system hence helps in strengthening the central nervous system and curing diseases like diabetic neuropathy and paralysis."The excessive secretion of cortisol produced by stress causes rise in blood levels of glucose.This may be reduced due to the relaxation effect of Takra dhara" says Dr. Pathrose Parathuvayalil, Chief physician, Parathuvayalil Hospital & Orthopedic Centre.Before doing Dhara the patient should be well examined and any contra indications should be excluded.

Takra dhara is believed to have a balancing effect on the deepest recesses of our brains, stimulating the endocrine system, the pituitary and pineal glands (for hormonal imbalances) and pleasure neurotransmitters (for depression or emotional insecurity). It is also said to enhance blood circulation to the brain, improving clarity and releasing deeply trapped Aama, or toxins.