Dharmayu

Turmeric/ Haldi

Turmeric/ Haldi

Turmeric or Haldi has been used in various food items and in treatments of several diseases since the time immemorial. In olden times, when there were no chemical-based ointments or lotions for the treatment of wounds, Vaidyas (ayurvedic doctors) used to make an ointment out of turmeric to heal the wounds of the warriors.

Though turmeric is among essential spices of every Indian kitchen, none would have thought as to how and why it has got that important place? No doubt it is due to unaccountable merits it possesses.

Everyone knows that turmeric has excellent antiseptic qualities. Besides, it is an antipyretic, antiallergic, anticancer, antifungal, anti-inflammatory, antibiotic, and analgesic. Let’s have a look at its other properties: –

  1. Turmeric is bitter and piercing in taste. It has hot potency.
  1. It is dry in nature due to which it suppresses the cough. It is beneficial in both common cold and chronic cold.
    In case of common cold, prepare a mixture of turmeric and milk, boil it. Cool the mixture a little and add jaggery. Drink it. It will give relief from the condition.
    To cure a chronic cold, add some turmeric and ghee to milk and drink it. Inhaling turmeric fumes is also beneficial in the cold.
  • Turmeric is useful in Sinusitis and Bronchitis.
  • It can treat cough (especially productive cough). Take turmeric powder, add honey to it. It will remedy the cough. Turmeric extract can also be used.
  • In Asthmatic conditions, Haridra electuary is beneficial along with turmeric fumes.
  • Haldi cures skin disorders, makes skin lustrous, and eliminates blood disorders.
  • It is applied on wounds and fractures by making it into a paste.
  • It can also be applied and eaten to cure chronic wounds.
  • It is beneficial for healing both Jaundice and inflammation.
  • Not only turmeric is used in the preparation of daily food items, but also in preserving various edible products like pickles, which need be kept for a long time, due to its preservative property.

Allopathy v/s Ayurveda: A Brief Analysis

Allopathy v/s Ayurveda: A Brief Analysis

When we talk about the ways or the systems of medicines being practiced in the world, two major names come to our mind, i.e., Allopathy and Ayurveda. Then, an immediate question arises in ​our head as to what the best way is out of the two? We shall analyze the differences between both the systems as the article proceeds.

First, let’s examine the meaning of both the systems of medicine. Allopathy or western medicinesystem recommends science-based modern drugs which treat the symptoms. The term allopathy was coined by a German physician Samuel Hahnemann in the early 19th century. Allopathy word isa combination of two Greek words “Allos,” meaning “opposite” and “pathos,” meaning “suffering.” So,the literal meaning of the term is- “a medicinal system producing effects different from those of thedisease.” Allopathic physicians use drugs to cure diseases.

Whereas, Ayurveda is a medicinal practice that has been in use for many centuries now. It is“science of life” sometimes referred to as “science of the sages” since it had been introduced by theseers and sages who lived in deep forests, hilltops, and remote areas thousand years from now. Ayurveda believes in the shloka-

स्वस्थस्य स्वास््य रक्षणं आतरु स्य ववकार प्रशमनं च|
It means, the health of a healthy person should be restored in every possible way, but if anyhow the

complications occur, he should be treated.

They intended to cure people of their common ailments. They cared about the wellbeing of humankind. The sages wandered in search of herbal plants, seeds, and fruits to cure common menof their illnesses. These seers weren’t like modern scientists or researchers who used chemicals,but they had in-depth knowledge with which they identified the plants which could cure any disease, permanently.

Difference between Allopathy and Ayurveda

Style of Treatment- Allopathic way of treatment is sometimes referred to as “conventional system of medicine.” Allopathic is a disease care system, and its idea is to manage the disease. When a patient comes to a doctor’s office, he, after checking blood pressure and temperature, asks him about his symptoms and writes a prescription. The prescription is not to cure the disease but to

suppress the symptoms with the usage of drugs. So, to say allopathic medicines keep on suppressing the signs and symptoms alone and do not aim at curing the root cause of a disease.

Western medicine, through scientific advancement and money power, has become a mainstream medicine and has managed to drag mainstream medicine to the status of Alternative Medicine. It has become a vital tool for trauma and emergency medical situations.

Ayurveda, on the other hand, is based on the philosophy of 25 elements, i.e., 5 Tanmantaras, 5 Mahabhootas (basic elements), 11 sense organs, Mahan, Ahankaar (ego) and Aatma (soul). These elements make a healthy man. There are three Doshas found in everything in existence be it human or an atom. The motive of Ayurvedic medicine is to strike a perfect balance between the Doshas so that people lead mentally, physically, and spiritually healthy life. The disharmony of the Doshas causes a disturbance in life. According to the concept of five-elements (Panch Mahabhootas), all the existence is made up of five elements, i.e., Air, Water, Fire, Earth, and Ether. It suggests that the treatment of diseases is possible through nature as every substance in the environment has the potential to be a medicine. So, despite the use of harsh chemicals as are used in Allopathy, Ayurveda uses natural medicinal substances that are safer for the human body. Ayurveda believesin ‘defensive strategy’ rather than ‘offensive strategy.’ It improves the immunity of the host body tofight against ailments and targets lifestyle related activities like breathing, eating, memory and sleep, digestion, and thoughts by understanding the origin of the disease. It also works at the mental level and is, therefore, able to motivate the patient, which is critical for improving treatment results in drug dependence and lifestyle disorders like diabetes, insomnia, hypertension, and acid peptic diseases. Despite many technological advancements in the pharmaceutical sector, the world has seen a risingtrend in global conditions these past few years. It’s an alarm that should make us aware ofincompetency, incomplete action, and the inability of Allopathic medicines to reach to the root cause of diseases. But Ayurvedic medicine rips the condition out root and stem.

Time is taken to Cure the Disease- Allopathic medicine is known for its phenomenal time of action. It provides relief to the patient within a few minutes. Allopathic drugs are ideal for emergencies.

The general perception of people towards Ayurvedic medicines is that it takes time to heal the person of his condition, which is not valid for all the cases. There is a mention of the miraculous property of an Ayurvedic herb named Sehdevi in a shloka-

ज्वरं हन्तत शशरोबद्धा सहदेवीजटा यथा|
In simple words, in the condition of fever, if Sehdevi is tied to the head of the patient like hair, the

fever is cured within a matter of a few hours.

Ayurvedic medicine is very reliable as it penetrates the deep into the cells or organs, causing illness and eliminates it from its roots.

Side Effects- Allopathy, as the name suggests, is a system of many side effects. It uses specific chemicals or drugs to treat diseases which trips the balance of the body. This condition of disequilibrium creates harmful effects. Thus, we can say it cures one disease and, in the process, it raises many others. Modern medicines are successful neither in curing the illness nor in preventing. They have irreversible side effects on the human body.

Though Ayurveda is concerned more with lifestyle and diet, it provides medicines compiled from the naturally available plants and herbs and treats disease without suppressing its symptoms. These herbs balance the side effects of any harsh chemical rendering it safer for human consumption. Hence, we can say Ayurvedic medicines are side-effect free (if taken as directed by ayurvedic physician) and repair body without disturbing any vital composition.

Evidence- Allopathy is considered a proven medical science, but it doesn’t seem to be accurateas of the rate at which allopathic physicians launch and withdraw the medicines is very high.

Besides, it is first tested on animals to study their effects. Hence the results of the medicine’s intakeare bound to carry side-effects on both animal and man.

Whereas Ayurveda follows nature, which means it follows some natural wisdom and universal truth, which need not be launched and withdrawn. It is not tested on animals. It is reason enough for Ayurvedic Scholars to emphasize that Ayurveda has no end and no beginning. Its physician need not launch and withdraw any medicine.

Allopathy and Ayurveda have many fundamental differences which set them apart from each other and establish them as independent practices. Allopathy provides comfort to people who are in urgent need of it while Ayurveda eliminates ailments and causes from their roots. It is clear from the above analysis that Ayurveda has the upper hand when it comes to the holistic wellbeing of humankind. It has zero side-effects because it balances the effects of harsh chemicals with herbal supplements. Wisdom of ancient Rishis has proved itself beneficial for many centuries as it has

been playing a pivotal role in the mental, physical, and spiritual development of contemporary masses.

Ginger/Adrak

Ginger/Adrak

History of Ginger/Adrak – Ginger or Adrak is a perennial herb known as Zingiber Officinale. It is native to tropical Asia. For its miraculous medicinal properties, it is used in many ancient traditions such as Chinese medicines, Unani, and Ayurveda. It has been used for about 4000 years in culinary preparation in India.

Western view- Ginger is pungent tuber known for its unique property to settle an upset stomach. In western terminology, ginger can be described as a stimulator, appetizer, diaphoretic, anti-emetic, sialagogue anti-tumorigenic, anti-inflammatory, anti-microbial, anti-hyperglycaemic, anti- carcinogenic, anti-atherosclerotic, circulatory stimulant, and cardiotonic.

Action of Ginger- Ginger is effective in all kinds of digestive disorders, gas, vomiting, nausea, abdominal, belching and motion sickness. It is known for its anti-cold properties. It can also be used for gouts, rheumatism, respiratory conditions, flu, heart disease, haemorrhoids, arthritis,headaches, laryngitis, migraines. Its juice can even be used for burns.

Its other properties are mentioned below-

  1. It is used as a traditional remedy for cough. Extract juice out of ginger and Tulsi. Mix both the juices. Add an equal amount of honey to it. The prepared concoction can be taken alone or with Sitopladi Churn.
  2. Its volatile oils carry anti-inflammatory properties due to which it is an excellent remedy for headaches and flu. To treat the condition, take dry ginger (also called Sunthi) with warm water. It will give relief from flu, headache, and all kinds of inflammation-related problems.
  3. Ginger settles an upset stomach and helps in digestion. Roast small pieces of ginger on a pan in desi ghee. Add some salt and eat it. It will settle the stomach and improve digestion.
  4. Ginger reduces Nausea and recovers appetite. By improving digestion, it recovers appetite.It is mentioned in Ayurvedic texts that everyone should take fresh ginger before lunch and dinner as it enhances digestion and restores craving for food. Nausea can also be reduced by taking fresh ginger with rock salt.
  5. It reduces joint pains as well as body pains. Grind Carom seeds (Ajowan) and ginger. Apply the mixture over aching part of the body.
  6. Consumption of fresh ginger is a good remedy for dry mouth problem because it produces saliva.

TULSI (HOLY BASIL) – OCIMUM SANCTUM: A PANACEA

As we see, most of the people around us are disease-struck. The principal reason behind this tragic situation is lifestyle-related chronic diseases, most of which can be addressed through Ayurveda as it is based on the philosophy of healthy and simple living. Ayurveda advocates regular consumption of adaptogenic herbs. Of all the Ayurvedic herbs, Tulsi is the most useful and the most efficacious one. Tulsi is associated with the epithet of “Mother of herbs” and “The Queen Medicine of Nature.”

Where is Tulsi found?

Tulsi aka ‘Holy Basil’ is an aromatic perennial plant in the family Lamiaceae. It grows primarily in the Indian Subcontinent and widespread as a reared plant throughout the Southeast Asian tropics. It usually develops in the forests of tropical regions on its own, and for its religious implications, people in India plant it in their homes as well. Rearing of the plant in every household has been designated as a religious duty by our Rishies. So, people, each morning and evening, kindle a mud lamp and bow their heads before the plant out of respect. For its beneficial characteristics, Shastras state- “तुल ां उपम ां सदृश्यां व अस्यतत क्षिपतत इततl,”[1] which means- Tulsi is invaluable due to its unique properties.

How to Identify Tulsi?

It belongs to the category of shrub, and usually grows 60-75 cm. in height, and the entire bush is sharply aromatic. The branches remain straight and widespread. Its leaves are 2.5-5 cm. long in an oval shape. The branches end with a cluster of blossoms. Tulsi, carrying whitish green leaves, is called Shukla Tulsi (White Tulsi), and the one with dark branches as well as dark leaves is called (Krishna Tulsi) Black Tulsi. Except for these two varieties, Tulsi is of several other kinds, one of which is O. gratissimum Linn., also known as Rama Tulsi. Krishna Tulsi is considered most useful. Its leaves and seeds are used in many medicines.

Chemical Composition: BASIL

Dr JLN Shastry writes about the chemical composition of Tulsi in Dravyaguna Vijnana’s second volume that it has Camphor, Bornyl acete, b-Caryophyllene, cadinene, camphene, Humelene, Carvacrol, Eugenol, Limonene, methyl ether, Methyl chavicol, etc. In its leaves, 0.7% volatile oil is present, which repels folly odours and poisonous insects. The parts that are mainly used are leaves, seeds, and root. Sometimes the whole plant (panchang) is used.

Medicinal Properties

It proves Ayurveda’s holistic lifestyle approach to health. Tulsi has pungent (Katu) and bitter (Tikta) taste. It undergoes pungent taste conversion after digestion which is said to pierce deep tissues that help in discharging the dead tissues and balances Kapha and Vata. Many scientific studies have been carried out by scholars that reveal tulsi’s unique combination of pharmacological actions. These actions include Antimiscrobial (antibacterial, antimalarial, antifungal, antiviral, anthelmintic, antiprotozoal), anti-diarrheal, chemopreventive, radioprotective, anti-oxidant, neuroprotective, anti-inflammatory, hepatoprotective, anti-diabetic, anti-hypertensive, anticarcinogenic, analgesic, antipyretic, anti-coagulant, anti-allergic, central nervous system depressant, anti-hypercholesterolemia, anti-asthmatic, anti-tussive, anti-emetic, diaphoretic, anti-leukodermal, anti-fertility, immunomodulatory, anti-ulcer, adaptogenic, anti-spasmodic, anti-arthritic, anti-stress, anti-cataract, memory enhancement, anti-thyroid and cardioprotective activities.Tulsi repels harmful insects such as mosquitos reducing the chances of their breeding hence making it effective against widely spread Malaria. These pharmacological actions restore physiological and psychological functions by treating chemical, emotional, physical, and infectious conditions. Tulsi is also beneficial for its cosmetic implications. It is used in many cosmetics essentials as it gives brightness to the complexion, enrich the beauty, cure skin diseases; ringworm, etc. It gives protection against anxiety, asthma, fever, arthritis, otalgia, hiccups, gastric, cough, diarrhoea, dysentery, eye diseases, indigestion, vomiting, cardiac, back pain, scorpion and snake bites. It is useful in auto immune diseases.

Methods to use Tulsi in different Medical Conditions

  • Rashes/itching- It is useful in Urticaria and Itching. To cure rashes, make a paste out of tulsi leaves and apply it to the affected area.
  • Headache- In the condition of Sinusitis and headache, crush basil’s leaves and make them into juice. Put two drops into both nostrils during empty stomach. It will give relief from headache as well as sinusitis.
  • Foul Breath- Bad breath is a significant problem among people, which is a direct result of low digestion. Tulsi is called Daurgandhyahara. Swallowing one or two leaves daily prevents lousy breath problem by restoring digestion.
  • Low Immunity- People often take tulsi daily through tea. Tulsi tea is highly digestive, good for respiratory health, immune boosting, etc. Tulsi is panacea in the sense that it treats laryngitis and hoarse voice, ringworm, dandruff and hair loss, etc.
    The recipe of the tea is as follows-
    Take dry Tulsi leaves and powder it. Mix 1 part of Tulsi leaf powder to 10 parts of tea powder. Use this tea powder to make tea. Fresh 3-4 leaves can also be used in a cup of tea.
    It is acceptable that some people avoid drinking tea. They can make tulsi herbal tea by mixing it with the combination of lemongrass, liquorice, ginger, cinnamon, terminalia tea bark and peepal tree bark.
  • Respiratory Ailments- It is also ideal for treating laryngitis and hoarse voice. Take 6-8 leaves with 2 pepper grains with a pinch of rock salt. Chew them slowly and suck its juice to cure laryngitis. And for treatment of hoarse voice, take 8-10 tulsi leaves and extract its juice. Mix it with 1 spoon honey and take it. It will give relief from hoarse voice. Another method to is- take 8-10 tulsi leaves mix it with 5gm. Ginger. Extract juice out of the combination and add honey of the same quantity in the mixture. Give it three times a day to an adult to cure the condition.
  • Fungal disease- As said earlier, tulsi is an anti-fungal herb, which means it can cure fungal diseases such as ringworm, etc. To treat ringworm, take 10 fresh leaves of Basil and extract their juice. Mix it with a pinch of turmeric or neem powder. Apply it to the affected area for 10 days regularly.
  • Dandruff- The treatment of dandruff and hair loss can be done by preparing a mixture of 750 ml. of coconut oil and 250 ml. of tulsi leaves’ juice. Keep the mixture in an airtight bottle under sunlight. After 10 days, filter the concoction and apply it thrice a week.

Disclaimer- All the information given above is for educational purpose only. Don’t follow any
advice regarding dosage or diagnoses, as it is as written in the article. Always consult your
ayurvedic physician before trying any medicinal practice on your own.