The Malas

Malas are the various waste products of the dhatus produced during the normal metabolical process. The three primary malas being Purisa (faeces), Mutra (urine) and Sweda (sweat). Ayurveda clearly states that only a balanced condition of doshas, dhatus and malas is arogya (good health or disease free condition) and their imbalance is the cause of ill health or disease.

Purisa is the waste left back after nutrients of digested food have been absorbed in the small intestine. While water and salt absorbed in the large intestine, the residue now converted into solid faeces, leaves the body. The consistency of the faeces depending both on gastrointestinal mobility and nature of diet.

The tridoshas must be in balance to ensure normal evacuation. Pitta and kapha help digestion and vata governs the mobility throughout the process. Any discrepancy or imbalance between these can lead to various symptoms of abdominal heaviness or pain, flatulance, constipation or diarrohea. It may also give rise to diseases as rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis, low-back pain, asthama, bronchitis as well as stomach ulcers and irritable bowels.

Mutra is derived during the course of biological processes within the human body. The first stage of urine formation begins in the large intestine where fluids are absorbed into the system. The entire urinary system (kidneys, uterus, bladder and urethra) takes part in the formation and elimination of urine, regulating the fluid balance in our body and also maintaining blood pressure. Any imbalance of increased or decreased urine, may result in disorders as kidney stones urinary infections, cystitis, abdominal pain and bladder disorders.

Sweda is the third primary mala, and it occurs as a waste product during the synthesis of meda dhatu (fatty tissue). Eliminated through skin pores, it controls body temperature and helps to regulate the electrolytic balance. The channels responsible for bringing the sweat to skin surface are known as sweda vaha srotas. It is essential that normal formation and flow of sweat takes place as otherwise it may lead to skin infections, itching/burning sensation over the body, loss of fluid balance and reduced body temperature.

(See also: Malas , Ayurveda, Ayurvedic Dictionary, Alternative Health, Body Mind and Soul)

The Trigunas

Just as the doshas are the essential components of the body, the three gunas - Satwa, Rajas and Tamas - are the three essential components or energies of the mind. Ayurveda provides a distinct description of people on the basis of their Manasa (psychological) Prakriti (constitution). Genetically determined, these psychological characteristics are dependent on the relative dominance of the three gunas.

While all individuals have mixed amounts of the three, the predominant guna determines an individual's mansa prakriti. In equilibrium, the three gunas preserve the mind (and indirectly the body), maintaining it in a healthy state. Any disturbance in this equilibrium results in various types of mental disorders.

Satwa, characterised by lightness, consciousness, pleasure and clarity, is pure, free from disease and cannot be disturbed in any way. It activates the senses and is responsible for the perception of knowledge. Rajas, the most active of the gunas, has motion and stimulation as its characteristics. All desires, wishes, ambitions and fickle-mindedness are a result of the same. While Tamas is characterised by heaviness and resistance. It produces disturbances in the process of perception and activities of the mind. Delusion, false knowledge, laziness, apathy, sleep and drowsiness are due to it.

Rajas and Tamas, as with the doshas, can be unbalanced by stress and negative desires as kama (lust), irshya (malice), moha (delusion and halucination), lobha (greed), chinta (anxiety), bhaya (fear) and krodha (anger). Each of these three properties is also comprised of sub-types and the particular sub-type to which one belongs to determine the qualities of that individual.

Satwika individuals are usually noble and spiritual in character, their nature determined as much by body type as their star constellation, having an element of kapha in their constitution.

Pitta dominated Rajasikas, intellectually oriented but vulnerable to temptations, are very human in their character and approach to life.

A dominant Vata ensures that Tamasika individuals are the most down to earth, concerned about fundamental questions of practical existence, specially when confronted by more spiritual and less physical issues.

(See also: Trigunas , Ayurveda, Ayurvedic Dictionary, Alternative Health, Body Mind and Soul)

Diagnosis

Indian medicine names three main causes of disease – 'overuse', 'disuse' or 'misuse’ of faculties; 'errors in judgement'; and influence of seasonal changes. According to Ayurveda all human diseases can be classified into the seven broad categories, namely:

1. Genetic (Adibalapravritta)

·      Consists of ailments as obstinate skin diseases, hemorrhoids, diabetes, tuberculosis and asthma that arise primarily due to defects in the sperm (sukra) of the father – when it is called pitrija or the ovum (sonita) of the mother – when it is termed matrja.

·      Undigested food, abnormal behaviour, addiction of any type and stressful situations affect the reproductive elements of both the male and female, resulting in a defective foetus.

2. Congenital (Janmabalapravritta)

·      Caused essentially due to nutritional disorder (rasakrita) and unfulfilled cravings of the mother during pregnancy (dauhrdya)

·      If diet and / or conduct of the mother aggravates vata, the foetus might end up with deformities as kyphosis (hunchback), blindness and dwarfism; increased pitta may cause alopecia and yellowish pigmentation of skin; and enhanced kapha might result in albinism.

3. Constitutional (Doshabalapravritta)

·      Arise out of any dietary or behavioural disturbance brought about by an imbalance in any one of the three vital physical energies (Tridoshas) or the three vital mental energies (Trigunas).

·      Thus constitutional disorders are of two types: somatic (Sharirika) & psychic (Manasika).

4. Traumatic (Sanghatabalapravritta)

·      Undergoing any trauma causing experience – external or internal – leads to this.

·      External trauma is induced by injuries inflicted by sharp instruments and bites of animals or venomous insects.

·      Stress and overstrain lead to internal trauma.

5. Seasonal (Klabalapravritta)

·      Brought about by changes in the nuances of seasonality.

·      Sometimes the body fails to adjust itself to the sudden and abnormal climatic changes – extreme cold might lead to frostbite and rheumatic disease. While extreme heat may cause sunstroke or fever.

6. Infectious and Spiritual (Daivabalapravritta)

·      Either born out of natural calamities as lightning, earthquakes, floods and the invisible, malignant forces of nature.

·      Or contacted through sexual & physical intimacy and sharing of food, plates, bed, clothes, towels and cosmetics with effected friends & relatives.

·      Or as a result of sheer jealousy.

7. Natural (Swabhavbalapravritta)

·      Even the healthiest of people are struck by hunger, thirst, sleep, death or senility.

·      Brought about by functional, organic and natural changes in the body.

In Ayurveda, physicians try to assess the symptoms of these diseases as much as the nature of ailment and its root causes (nidana). This is of utmost importance in ensuring correct choice of remedial & preventive measures for treatment of the disease. For otherwise, even after therapy, one might not get the desired response and there would remain a chance of recurrence.

The early signs and symptoms (purvaroopa) provide useful warnings and the opportunity for taking necessary action before a disease can assume dangerous magnitudes. The main signs and symptoms (roopa) reflect the true nature and intensity of the disease. Another oft used method of diagnosis is exploratory therapy (upasaya) which uses diet, medicines and routines to detect diseases otherwise difficult to diagnose. Acting either against the cause of disease or the disease itself or producing relief. For example a swelling that is alleviated by an oily & hot massage, is obviously caused by an imbalance of vata.

(See also: Diagnosis , Ayurveda, Ayurvedic Dictionary, Alternative Health, Body Mind and Soul)

Examination Process

Ten (Dash) fold (Bidha) Examination (Pariksha)

Related to the patient.

Covers body constitution, pathological state, tissue vitality, physical build, body measurement, adaptability, psychic constitution, capacities for digestion & exercise and age.

1 Body Constitution (prakriti):

Determined by relative predominance of doshas during foetal development the prakriti can be any of vatika, paittika, kaphaja, vata paittika, vata kaphaja, pitta kaphaja or samdoshaja.

2 Pathological State (vikruti):

Related to the biological history of the diseases in its entirety, it enables physicians to consider the signs & symptoms of the disease in order to assess the strength of the disease, the causes, the doshas, the affected body elements, body constitution, time and strength of an individual.

3 Tissue Vitality (sara):

Broadly speaking, there are seven vital tissues, namely lymph (rasa), blood (rakta), muscle (mamsa), adipose (meda), bone (asthi), bone marrow (majja) and reproductive tissue (sukra).

Lymph in the skin is assessed by its smoothness, softness, clearness, thinness and whether the skin is covered with short, deep rooted and delicate hair.

Percentage of blood in body is evaluated from the condition of the eyes, mouth, tongue, lips, nails and soles of the feet.

When muscles are in perfect condition, the temples, forehead, nape of the neck, shoulders, belly, arms, chest, joints of the body, jaws and cheeks are covered firmly with the skin.

People with healthy adipose tissue have oily skin and healthy hair, nails, voice and teeth.

The health of bones is determined by pliable but firm forearms, chin, nails, teeth, ankles, knees and other joints of the body.

Healthy bone marrow leads to good complexion and stout, long, round & stable joints.

Those in whom the semen is perfectly healthy, are strong and cheerful.

4 Physical Build (samhanana):

Body examination is carried out by direct perception – a healthy body being well- built with symmetrical bones, strong & stable joints and enough flesh & blood.

5 Body Measurement (pramana):

In Ayurveda, body measurement is given in terms of finger breadth and any person in close proximity to the ideal measurements is termed as normal and healthy.

6 Adaptibility (satmya):

Indicating substances intrinsic to the body, it refers to two types of people - those that are strong, adjust easily to difficulties and have excellent digestive capacity and those that are generally weak, intolerant to change and can have only few food options.

7 Psychic Constitution (satwa):

Refers to the mind which controls the body in contact with the soul (atma). Depending on degree of mental strength, it is considered to be high, moderate or low.

8 Digestive Capacity (ahara sakti)

This has to be judged from the individual’s capacity to ingest and digest food substances.

9 Capacity for Exercise (vyayama shakti)

Assessed by capacity for hard work, it is either low, moderate or high.

10 Age (vaya)

Broadly categorised into childhood, middle age and old age, it provides vital clues for the diagnosis & treatment and is a must consideration in clinical examinations.

(See also: Ten Fold Examination Process , Ayurveda, Ayurvedic Dictionary, Alternative Health, Body Mind and Soul)

Panchkarma: Fomentation Therapy

Fomentation, or sweating, necessarily follows oleation. Induced by heat from different sources it brings sweat on the skin through hair follicles by opening the pores of the skin. Due to fomentation the agni is increased and the fatty tissue gets mobilised. While throwing out waste as ama (toxins) through the skin it also helps liquify aggravated doshas, dilating all body channels for the cleansing.

It is divided into two main types, Agni Sweda wherein heat is applied directly as steam and Anagni Sweda where no external heat source is necessary e.g exercises, fighting, walking, lifting heavy loads, exposure to sunlight, stay in centrally heated rooms, putting heavy blankets over the body etc.

Charaka has described about thirteen types of fomentation of which some are in practice now.

Upanaha Sweda - fomentation by poultice

Ushma Sweda - steam fomentation

Nadi Sweda - local steam fomentation (steam/vapour of medicated decoction of leaves)

Avagah Sweda - tub bath in warm decoction of medicated water.

Pizichili - pouring of oil on the body.

After this therapy patients are advised to go for rest, avoid cold, take warm baths and get adequate fresh air. Nasal therapy, enema or bloodletting can be undertaken immediately after fomentation. Purgation should be done only after two days of fomentation. However, care should be taken to ensure that no part of the treatment is missed out on as that would not only reduce efficacy but may even prove detrimental.

Once the body has been correctly and suitably prepared, under supervision of a qualified doctor only should the administering of Panchakarma happen. It is best to depend on a reputed Ayurvedic nursing home and experienced Ayurvedic doctors.

(See also: Fomentation Therapy , Ayurveda, Ayurvedic Dictionary, Alternative Health, Body Mind and Soul)

Panchkarma Bloodletting

Toxins absorbed into the bloodstream through the gastro-intestinal tract get circulated throughout the body, manifesting under the skin or in the joint-spaces making rooms for disease. Their elimination and purification of the blood then becomes necessary. Thus his therapy is very good in case of all imbalance of blood and pitta disorders as stubborn skin diseases, tumours, gout, excessive drowsiness, alopecia, hallucinations and enlarged liver & spleen.

A sharp scalpel is usually used to make superficial, parallel or vertical incisions with extreme care after a soothing and antiseptic paste has been applied to the location. The amount of blood let out should not be more than 350ml. At such times a needle should be used to puncture a vein. It is however not to be used for people suffering from general swelling of limbs, debility, severe anemia, piles, fever, thirst, alcoholism.

The real objective of Panchakarma is to eliminate the cause of disease, since in itself the absence of symptoms does not always indicate a complete cure. Symptoms can often be quickly eliminated. But cure usually takes more time. Since it is based on the individual constitution, it is obvious that in very chronic diseases there may be more sittings required to eliminate the toxins from the body.

(See also: Bloodletting , Ayurveda, Ayurvedic Dictionary, Alternative Health, Body Mind and Soul)

Diet Planning

Since diet, along with daily habits, is crucial to the health of an individual, it must be made clear at the outset that there is no standard ideal diet for all people in general. The various factors that need to be kept in mind while working out the ideal diet for each person, which will be distinctly different based on the person’s specific constitutional characteristics, are as listed below:

·      The natural qualities of each food.

·      How those natural qualities can get altered.

·      The effects of combining foods – proper and unacceptable combinations.

·      The quantity of food intake.

·      Individual differences in food intake.

·      The places & climate where the food is grown, prepared and consumed.

·      The effects of the seasons and time of day.

·      Avoidance of artificial flavors, chemicals, preservatives and colours.

Diet Composition

One other factor that has remained a matter of great debate worldwide over the ages has been the vegetarianism vs. non-vegetarianism controversy. Initially it was common belief that non-vegetarian diet is superior in that it is full of energetic ingredients and thus provides more strength and stamina. But now it has been scientifically established that vegetarian diet is more natural and useful to human nature.

Non-vegetarian diet contains cholesterol saturated fatty acids that are the root cause of diseases as coronary heart problems, cerebro-vascular accidents (strokes), eye disorders & high blood pressure. With only about 60% of its contents useful for human body, the rest 40% contains harmful toxins. In addition, such diet is usually heavy for the stomach and produces acidity, which in turn can cause problems in the gastrointestinal system.

Another significantly important difference between the two is that fruits & vegetables (cereals & grains, legumes, seedy fruits, citrus fruits, carrot, cabbage, celery, green leafy vegetables, apples, melons, peaches, pears etc.) are rich in dietary fibers that reduces incidence of coronary heart diseases, cancer of intestinal tract, piles, obesity, diabetes, constipation, hiatus hernia, diverticulitis, irritable bowel syndrome, dental caries and gallstones.

Also many disease causing organisms are transmitted through and thrive in animal protein – serious ailments as Encephalopathy and Mad Cow diseases are caused by Bovine Spongi. Similarly the Salmonella Typhimurium bacteria can be passed on through consumed eggs, causing diseases like pneumonia, bronchitis and typhoid.

Given that the body of non-vegetarian animals contains 10 times more amount of hydrochloric acid than that of vegetarian ones, and that the human body should not be having such a high concentration of hydrochloric acid, it is reasonable to assume that the fact human body is basically meant for a vegetarian diet.

(See also: Diet Planning , Ayurveda, Ayurvedic Dictionary, Alternative Health, Body Mind and Soul)

Pitta dominated Rajasikas, intellectually oriented but vulnerable to temptations, are very human in their character and approach to life.

Asura

Indulgence in self-praise, bravery, cruelty, envy and ruthlessness. Terrifying appearance.

Raksasa

Excessive sleep and indolence. Envious disposition. Constant anger, intolerance, and cruel behaviour. Gluttonous habits.

Paisala

Unclean habits. Cowardly, with a terrifying disposition. Gluttonous habits. Fondness for the opposite sex. Abnormal diet and regimen.

Sarpa

Sharp reactions. Excessive indolance. Frequent fearful disposition. Brave or cowardly attitude depending on situations.

Praita

Excessive desire for food. Envious character. Excessive greediness and actions without discrimination.

Sakuna

Full of passion. Unsteadiness, ruthlessness, and excessive attitude for food.

(See also: Rajas , Ayurveda, Ayurvedic Dictionary, Alternative Health, Body Mind and Soul)

Panchakarma: Fomentation Therapy

Fomentation, or sweating, necessarily follows oleation. Induced by heat from different sources it brings sweat on the skin through hair follicles by opening the pores of the skin. Due to fomentation the agni is increased and the fatty tissue gets mobilised. While throwing out waste as ama (toxins) through the skin it also helps liquify aggravated doshas, dilating all body channels for the cleansing.

It is divided into two main types, Agni Sweda wherein heat is applied directly as steam and Anagni Sweda where no external heat source is necessary e.g exercises, fighting, walking, lifting heavy loads, exposure to sunlight, stay in centrally heated rooms, putting heavy blankets over the body etc.

Charaka has described about thirteen types of fomentation of which some are in practice now.

Upanaha Sweda - fomentation by poultice

Ushma Sweda - steam fomentation

Nadi Sweda - local steam fomentation (steam/vapour of medicated decoction of leaves)

Avagah Sweda - tub bath in warm decoction of medicated water.

Pizichili - pouring of oil on the body.

After this therapy patients are advised to go for rest, avoid cold, take warm baths and get adequate fresh air. Nasal therapy, enema or bloodletting can be undertaken immediately after fomentation. Purgation should be done only after two days of fomentation. However, care should be taken to ensure that no part of the treatment is missed out on as that would not only reduce efficacy but may even prove detrimental.

Once the body has been correctly and suitably prepared, under supervision of a qualified doctor only should the administering of Panchakarma happen. It is best to depend on a reputed Ayurvedic nursing home and experienced Ayurvedic doctors.

(See also: Fomentation Therapy , Ayurveda, Ayurvedic Dictionary, Alternative Health, Body Mind and Soul)

ACCUPRESSURE:

·      Based on the principle of manipulation of crucial pressure points in the body, accupressure cures difficult and chronic aches and pains - backaches, spondylitis, abdominal cramps, neurological disorders, arthritis etc. These pressure points, over a 1000 of them are actually small nerves about a centimeter in diameter and varying in depth between a quarter of an inch to several inches. - are often embedded in or near a muscle or tendon.

·      Adds life to those limbs that have been partially disabled.

·      Safe and effective, it involves no pin-pricks, no heat fomentations, nor any chemical or electric stimulations. However, it is a very exact art and should be carried out by a trained practitioner, absolutely sure about the pressure points to be tapped and the correct pressure to be applied.

The fundamental difference between these two systems being:

ACUPRESSURE

·      A form of physiotherapy that indulges in massage and stimulation of precise points of the body.

·      To ease all kinds of aches and pains and provide relief from tension, exhaustion and disease.

ACUPUNCTURE

·      A form of surgery where needles are penetrated into specific points of your body.

·      To cure chronic aches and pain.

(See also: ACCUPRESSURE , Ayurveda, Ayurvedic Dictionary, Alternative Health, Body Mind and Soul)

Internal Planning of any Industrial Building

·  Heavy plant and machinery should be installed in the south-western, southern & western parts.

·  Light weight and auxillary machines should be in the northern & eastern zones. Install boiler, AC panels, generator, heater, dryer, oven, furnace etc. in the north-west & east sections.

·  Toilets should be placed in the north-east, centre or south-west.

·  Make sure not to place spare parts stores in the north-west, centre & south-east.

·  Rest rooms for labour should be in the northern & eastern zones.

1. heavy plant machinery should be installed in the South-West, South and West Zones

2. Light Weight and Auxillary machines should be installed in North and East Zones

3. Boiler/AC Panels/ Generetor/Heater/Dyer/Oven/Furnace etc are Best in the South East but can also be installed in the North-West and East Zones.

4. Toilets or Fire/Power installations should not be provided in the North-East, Center and South-West zones.

See also: Vastu Shastra

(See also: Vastu Shastra , Ayurveda, Ayurvedic Dictionary, Alternative Health, Body Mind and Soul)

Diabetes: A clinical condition characterized by the excessive secretion of urine and increased blood-sugar level

(See also: Diabetes , Ayurveda, Ayurvedic Dictionary, Alternative Health, Body Mind and Soul)

Microcosm:  A diminutive representative world; a system more or less analogous to a much larger system

(See also: Microcosm , Ayurveda, Ayurvedic Dictionary, Alternative Health, Body Mind and Soul)

Panchakarma Basic Principles

Panchakarma consists of medicated emesis (vamana) to remove excess kapha, therapeutic purgation (viracana) to clear excess pitta, medicated enema (vasti) to eject excess vata, nasal drops or snuffs (nasya) for diseases of the head & neck and bloodletting (raktamokshana) in case of blood disorders. Five purification procedures for removing accumulated toxins and other waste material in the body.

As the humors and tissues are related closely to each other, this discharge procedure affects the tissues indirectly by the strong elimination of related humor. For example, the pronounced elimination of kapha by herb induced emesis causes an effect on the nutrient tissue fluid pool, containing water and electrolytes, plasma, muscle, fat. Or the large release of pitta by selective purgation similarly causes an indirect effect on the total colouring material in the body or blood. Vasti is somewhat different, as it is meant to nullify excess vata and contains warm oleation substances. During its long contact with the membrane of the large intestine, it separates layers of faecal matter and thus enhances better absorption, which is responsible for the ultimate nourishment of all tissues. Nasya in turn cleans the sinus and thereby improves the function of sense organs.

Physical and mental diseases occur due to the vitation of somatic doshas vata, pitta and kapha and due to mental doshas Rajas and Tamas. Volitional transgression, effect of time and senses are the three primary causes responsible for vitation of biological and mental doshas. Food, drinks & environmental factors with similar properties to the doshas vitiates them and cause disease. Panchakarma's purificatory therapies balance out the three doshas, acting both as a curative and a preventive measure.

(See also: Panchakarma , Ayurveda, Ayurvedic Dictionary, Alternative Health, Body Mind and Soul)

Characteristics of PITTA

A moderately well developed physique with mascular limbs and a purposeful, stable gait of medium speed. With a loud, strong voice and precise, convincing speech. The skin is fair, soft, lusterous, warm, and tends to burn easily in the sun – has freckles, many moles, and a tendency to rashes. And the bodies are hot and sweaty. Characterised by fine and soft, either fair or reddish hair that tends to gray soon. Face is heart-shaped, often with a pointed chin. While the neck is proportionate and of average size. A neat, pointed, and average sized nose matches the average sized eyes that are either light blue, light gray or hazel in color, with an intense luster which get red in summer or after bathing. The mouth being medium, with average lips and medium-sized, yellowish teeth.

Ambition * Concentration * Confidence * Courage * Enthusiasm for knowledge * Happiness * Intelligence

Pittas have an intellectual and precise disposition due to a very alert, focussed mind. Sharp and knife-like in anger, they are irritable, jealous and aggressive by nature. Discriminating and judgemental, they are articulate, learned and proud. With a developed sense of responsibility, they can take decisions and organise affairs well. Argumentative, but with a sense of humour, their selectively excellent memory makes them fast learners. Moderately passionate in their sexual pursuits, they spend moderately, usually on luxuries.

Warm to cool rather than steaming hot.Sweet ,bitter and astringent tastes.

Oil Massage

With cooling oils such as chandanbala Laxadi oil

Exercise

Moderate exercise which may include jogging, swimming, Yoga, cycling and weight lifting

Herbal Dietary supplements

Haritaki, Bhumiamla, Chyavanprash, surakta, sitopladi churan,pitta Tea.

Factors that increase pitta

1.    Exposure to heat, eating too much red meat, salt, spicy or sour foods.

2.    Indigestion and irregularity of meals. Exercising at midday, Drugs especially antibiotics.

3. Too much intellectual work/thinking. Alcohol, Fatigue.Anger,Hate fear, emotion.

(See also: PITTA , Ayurveda, Ayurvedic Dictionary, Alternative Health, Body Mind and Soul)

Diagnosis Process

The imbalance of doshas and the course they follow to cause disease is termed samprapti or pathogenesis. Since diseases develop in distinct stages, a good knowledge of those helps in early recognition of disease. Ayurveda thus elaborates a six stage process for diagnosis called Kriya (action) Kal (time). The first 4 stages being unique to Ayurveda in that they permit recognition and elimination of the disease before it ventures into differentiated clinical symptoms.

One who knows the various stages of pathogenesis accumulation (sanchaya), provocation (prakopa) spread or migration (prasara), deposition or augmentation (sthana samshaya), manifestation (vyakti) and the differentiation (bheda) is entitled to be a physician.

Stage One: Accumulation (Sanchaya)

·      Weak digestive power and excess of dosha is responsible for such a condition.

·      Here toxins (ama) produced by improper digestion collects in the gastro-intestinal (GI) tract.

·      Toxins resulting from a kapha imbalance accumulates in the stomach, those associated with a pitta imbalance collects in the small intestine, and that related to vata malfunction amasses in the colon.

·      Due to the presence of one of these toxins, mild and ill-defined symptoms may show.

·      We should recognise and eliminate the cause instead of ignoring or suppressing it.

·      Causes aversion to similar things and attraction for contraries.

Stage Two: Aggravation (Prokapa)

·      The accumulated, stagnant doshas are now `excited’ by factors as ahara, vihara & seasons.

·      The toxins amass in such degree to get provoked in the site of production in the GI tract.

Stage Three: Spread (Prasara)

•    In this stage, the toxins accumulated in the GI tract start overflowing.

Generally, up to this stage the damage is entirely reversible and restoration of doshic balance can be achieved with proper measures. Or there may be spontaneous prashama (remission) influenced by seasonal changes. Thus there is sanchaya of pitta in rainy season, prakopa in fall and prasara in early winter. Based on degree of excitation, it might even passed the stages of prashama or prasara.

Stage Four: Agumentation (Sthana Samshraya)

·      Overflowing toxins migrate, entering and taking refuge in localised, weak or defective dhatus thereby leading to malfunction and structural damage.

·      It is from here that specific degenerating disease and susceptibilities to serious infections begin.

Stage Five: Symptom Manifestation (Vyakti)

·      Differentiated symptoms first begin to appear from the location.

·      Manifested symptoms being used by modem medicine for classification & diagnosis of disease.

Stage Six: Complications/Differentiation (Bheda)

·      The disease having taken taken years or even decades to reach this final stage, becomes chronic.

·      Offers detailed understanding of the group of symptoms thereby making clear nature of disease.

·      Might act as predisposing factors for the spread of other diseases.

(See also: Diagnosis Process , Ayurveda, Ayurvedic Dictionary, Alternative Health, Body Mind and Soul)

AROMA THERAPY

"If the day and night are such that you greet them with joy and life emits a fragrance like flowers and sweet scented herbs - that is your success. All nature is your congratulations."

Henry David Thoreaux.

The use of pure essential oils from plants dates back many centuries, and history of aroma therapy is in many ways part of the history of herbal medicine as a whole. The Arabic countries are usually credited with first discovering the process of distillation of oils about a thousand years back. It then spread to India and then the west. In modern times much research has taken place on this - from perfumery applications to medicinal uses.

Highly concentrated extracts, essential oils thus need to be treated with respect and care. Preferably used sparingly - large doses not only increase immunity and reduce effectiveness, they can prove irritating and even toxic to the skin - a large part of their effect on our moods and emotions occurs through our sense of smell.

When we breathe in air, the aroma molecules are translated into signals by the receptor cells in the nose. This signal is sent to the olfactory bulb and then on to the limbic and hypothalamic parts of the brain. Although not scientifically proven, it is believed that the essential oil aroma activates the `pharmacy' within our brains - neurochemicals as seretonin, endorphins etc. Which are `words' that our brain uses to communicate with our nervous and other body systems. Thus the aroma of a calming oil would cause release of seretonin - a euphoric aroma.

Relief from pain and other physical effects are also experienced when these neurochemicals are released. Studies done on effects of essential oils on brain waves have shown that a rhythm exhibiting calmness was produced when a oil with sedative potential was inhaled and a stimulating aroma caused an alert response. Our minds can thus play an important role in our well being.

Aroma therapy thus works through the brain, through the mind and through the emotions e.g the tender yellow flower of the Ylang Ylang tree is considered so worthy of love that it is placed on wedding beds in Indonesia. Just as to calm your mind you need to close your eyes and feel the lush coolness of an immense forest filled with cedars, trees of frankincense and sandalwood through deep breaths of the lovely, fresh scent of those trees.

(See also: AROMA THERAPY , Ayurveda, Ayurvedic Dictionary, Alternative Health, Body Mind and Soul)

Astrology and Ayurveda: Gemology

In exactly the same manner precious gemstones such as rubies, diamonds, pearls, red corals, sapphires etc. can influence the effects of the planets substantially. Although they can minimise the impact of planetary afflictions, they should always be worn with care and on recommendation of an experienced astrologer. For the wrong stone can aggravate the condition and even cause fresh problems.

PLANET * DISEASE *GEM

Mars, Mercury, Moon

Rheumatism, musculo skeletal

Red coral, emerald, dark blue pearl,

Saturn, Sun

Problems and bone diseases

sapphire, ruby

Mars, Mercury

Digestive diseases, diabetes

Red coral, white coral,emerald

Saturn, Ketu

Diseases of the nervous system

Dark blue sapphire

Mercury, Mars, Ketu

Psychol0ogical diseases, including hysteria

Emerald in the night, red coral in the day

Mars, Saturn, Rahu

Skin diseases

White coral, yellow sapphire

Saturn, Mars, Moon,Venus, Mercury, Jupiter

Urinary and gynecological problems

Pearl, diamond, red coral, yellow sapphire, emerald, topaz

Saturn, Mars

Dental problems

Sapphire, red coral

Saturn, Mars

Ear nose, and throat problems

Yellow sapphire, white coral

Saturn, Mars

Blood-related problems

Dark blue sapphire, emerald, ruby

(See also: Gemology , Ayurveda, Ayurvedic Dictionary, Alternative Health, Body Mind and Soul)

Macrocosm: The universe itself; a system regarded as an entity containing subsystems

(See also: Macrocosm , Ayurveda, Ayurvedic Dictionary, Alternative Health, Body Mind and Soul)

Meditative Postures

Yoni Mudra

·  Close your ears with thumbs.

·  Cover your eyes with your index finger.

·  Close your nostrils with your middle fingers.

·  Press your lips together with your remaining fingers.

·  Release the middle fingers gently to inhale and exhale while you meditate.

Frontal & Nasal Gazing

·  Gaze at a point between your eyebrows, seat of the 'Third Eye' or at the tip or your nose.

·  This would improve your level of concentration. At the same time, strengthening your eye muscles. Nasal gazing has a positive effect on the central nervous system.

·  Remember not to strain your eyes. Start with one minute of gazing and then slowly build it up to ten minutes.

Candle Gazing

• Place a candle at eye-level in a darkened, draught-free room.
• Close your eyes and hold an after-image of the bright flame.

The practice steadies the wandering mind, leading you to focus with pin-point accuracy.

(See also: Meditative Postures , Ayurveda, Ayurvedic Dictionary, Alternative Health, Body Mind and Soul)

Sex & Ayurveda

Sex has always been an issue of dichotomy. An integral part of our lives and essential for the continuation of the species, it is far more than just a technical necessity. While social structures in India are quite strict on this, the study of

 sex - from both its physical and psychological perspectives - has been practiced here from ancient times. Unlike in the west, where this is a fairly recent phenomenon and they are yet to find the proper line of distinction between sex

 in general and pornography in particular.

On the other hand Maharishi Vatsayan's Kamasutra is yet unparalleled as the  most comprehensive documentation ever on the practice of sex. Unfortunately,  its classic treatment of the act and the art has often been misrepresented. The ancient Ayurvedic text of Charaka Samhita provided complete sexual solutions over 3000 years ago And the time-frozen, stone-carved, erotic sculptures in the temples at Khajuraho and Konarak leave millions of visitors utterly awe-struck by their sheer beauty, elegance and variety. An undying testimony to how intrinsic sex was to the daily lives of people in ancient India.

The importance of sex in our lives has remained quite unchanged. The crucial points to be kept in mind in relation to the same being:

·      Sex is an integral part of our daily habits (Dinacharya).

·      Night and after two hours of dinner is the ideal time for intimacy, as it is kapha time.

·      An absolutely satisfying sexual union, when developed over time, bestows you and your partner with health and vitality.

·      For best results, each of the partners should be physically, emotionally and spiritually involved with the other.

·      Touch, smell, food, music and ambience play a vital role in developing, increasing and prolonging intimacy.

·      Perverted or unsatisfying sex has adverse effects on your mental and physical health, as it aggravates your vital energies (doshas) and reduces immunity. An aggravated vata will make you more emotionally vulnerable and fear-prone, increased pitta will move you to anger and even frustration and enhanced kapha will make you more possessive.

·      The frequency of sex depends on your constitution and seasons - kapha types indulge in sex more frequently than your vata & pitta types thanks to the extra stamina they possess.

·      Vata types might find satisfaction in changing partners. While the difficult-to-quench-their-desires pitta types are usually in quest for more intensity.

For more and better sex therefore, one can practice Vajikaran therapy (virlification) - that part of Ayurveda which enhances male fertility and potency. However, any misuse of the same may open up a deluge of emotional and psychological complications. Use of similar medication (aphrodisiac supplements) instantly induces sexual pleasure and excitement, increases sexual stamina and promotes fertile seminal secretions.

(See also: Sex , Ayurveda, Ayurvedic Dictionary, Alternative Health, Body Mind and Soul)

A dictionary Of Commonly Used Sanskrit terms. From Lac to Omkarasana.

Please note that all words in grey, like "yoga", "enlightenment" or "kundalini" are hyperlinked to archives further explaining the term. At the corresponding archive you will also find articles related to the term.