Qualities of Carrot

Here he is giving detailed information about the best ways of eating carrot.


Carrot is a tuber root form of vegetable, which can also be eaten raw. The quality of carrot can be recognized with its color. A good carrot is one, which is deep yellow or red in color. Its leaves are green and very thin in texture. Carrot contains all the necessary elements required for the nutrition of the body. It is very beneficial to improve the memory and intelligence. Its regular consumption for few days helps in reducing the weight, however it should be consumed in a proper manner.


Carotene found in carrot is a form of Vitamin A. This substance is found in different fruits and vegetables as well.


Carrot is most beneficial when it is eaten raw. Eat raw carrot everyday in the morning, this reduces overweight and strengthens the teeth and gums. It is a good idea to remain on carrot diet for three days. Replace lunch with carrot salad. In case you are not satisfied with the diet, then take a hot glass of cow milk along with honey.


Do not take any thing else except carrot and milk with honey. You can drink water to quench your thirst. Carrot juice is more beneficial when compared to carrot. You can also take 50 to 200 gm of carrot juice twice daily. This diet is a sort of fasting and also supplies nutritional elements to the body. You can add glucose to make it tastier and healthier. Those who can not keep fast or can not live without eating grains and cereals, they can eat carrot vegetable without curry. It should be cooked with black pepper, cumin seeds, coriander and common salt. Use anardana instead of dry mango powder. This vegetable can be eaten raw without chapattis as well. You can take one or two chapattis and eat more vegetable.


Carrot vegetable is very tasty and can be eaten as it is. You can also make carrot raita like gourd or cucumber raita. Wash the carrot and grate it nicely, put it in beaten curd and add salt, black pepper and roasted cumin seeds. You can also add roasted cumin seeds in vegetable or raita. There is no need to boil the carrot to make raita or peel the skin. Separate the middle yellow portion and make sweet marmalade. Take a big carrot and cut it into slices, sometimes it is soaked in limewa-ter for eight hours and then soaked in sugar syrup. This marmalade is very delicious. You can garnish it with small cardamom, vansh lochan and silver covering. This gives great strength and enthusiasm.


GAJAR KA HALVA


This sweet dish is extremely delicious and nutritious. However there is no need to add khoya as the shopkeepers do. Here we are giving the method to prepare halva in order to increase its medicinal qualities.


Wash the carrots and grate it. Now, pour cow milk in a large pan and put it on flame, add the grated carrot when the milk begins to boil and stir it with a big spoon. Add some sugar candy when the milk begins to thicken and stir again.


Remove the halva from flame when it is ready. Add small cardamom, vansh lochan and saffron. This sweet dish is nutritious and gives a good figure. Around 25 gm of this halva can be taken every morning and an equal quantity in the afternoon as well. If 3 gm of honey in each serving is added it becomes more beneficial. Drink a glass of hot cow milk added with sugar candy over it. Chapatti or some light lunch can be taken along with this halva.


CARROT AND GINGER


Combination of carrot and ginger is very beneficial. Ginger increases the digestive elements, therefore carrot is easily digestible


Grate the carrot, chop the ginger, add both the things and rinse in water. Serve it in a plate, sprinkle common salt, roasted cumin seeds powder and lemon juice.


This is very healthy and nutritious item, which provides strength and energy; it also improves the digestion process. It contains vitamin A and C. It is tasty and improves the appetite. It can be a regular item on the breakfast table or a good substitute for the afternoon snacks.


Breakfast should contain a ripe guava along with carrot - ginger salad. The afternoon snacks should also be taken in the same way. Take hot milk at bedtime if desired. You can also add radish in the salad, it is very tasty and nutritious.


Vegetable soup is a very healthy dish. To prepare it, boil guava, tomato, carrot, radish and ginger in equal quantities and sieve it. Add lemon juice and take only this soup for three, five or seven days. Do not take any other grain or cereal; you might not need any medicine at all.


OTHER WAYS OF EATING CARROT


Carrot is available only in the winter season. A sweet marmarmalade can be prepared so that it can be taken throughout the year.


There are other ways of eating carrot. Steam cook carrot, rose flowers and aniseed and extract the juice. Add two kilos of carrot pieces, 400 gm of aniseed and 10 kilos of water, sieve this water and make sugar syrup, cool it and use it.


Take 25 gm of this, drink at least four times everyday. It is very beneficial in case of heart diseases. You can also take it with orange, sweet limejuice. Carrot and rose squash can be taken in any season. Therefore you can enjoy the qualities of carrot even in off-season.


During summers, take equal quantities of fresh water, orange juice and the rose-carrot squash, add citric acid and drink it. Live only on this water for three or five days, on the first day take one light meal and second day take orange juice with lemon juice. In this way maintain this diet for at least one week. Carrot diet can be planned depending on the patient's condition and strength. Carrot is beneficial in all circumstances; its seed is also very beneficial. Ground 300 gm of carrot seeds and boil in 500 gm of water. Boil till it reduces to half the quantity, add sugar. Give this syrup to women who are suffering with irregular menstrual cycle. All sorts of irregularities are cured within few days of consuming this drink.


Take 100 gm each of carrot and jaggery, boil both the things in 750ml of water. Boil till the carrot is cooked. Eat this dish with silver covering for two to three days on empty stomach in the morning. This medicine is very beneficial for liver disorders and especially jaundice.


Grate one kilo of carrot, boil it in four kilos of milk and add sugar. Add 250 gm of pure ghee when the milk dries up completely and roast it for some time. Eat this dish for one month regularly, this cures impo-tency. It also strengthens the brain.


Physically weak males and females should drink 200 gm of carrot juice everyday. This is the best medicine to overcome physical weakness.


Carrot is good for those children who are getting new teeth. Give carrot juice everyday, this strengthens the teeth and bones.


In case of intestine swelling carrot proves to be very beneficial. Add 200 gm of carrot juice, 100 gm each of cucumber and beetroot juice and drink it for one week for curing intestine swelling problem.


Breast-feeding mothers should drink carrot juice everyday for increasing breast milk. It also develops attractive and healthy breasts.


Anaemic people should drink 200 gm of carrot juice with 100 gm of spinach juice. This increases the blood and hemoglobin content.


Sometimes the heart starts beating faster or perspiration increases with slightest work. In this case drink 200 gm of carrot juice for one week. The carotene present in carrot is effective in curing cancer.


Carrot leaves are also very beneficial. Apply a little bit of ghee on the leaves and heat them slightly, grind and extract the juice. Pour few drops in the nostrils to cure migraine problem completely.


People suffering with night blindness should drink carrot juice regularly. Vitamin A present in carrot is beneficial in this disease.


Carrot is the best medicine for curing insomnia. Drink carrot juice at least 30 to 40 minutes before going to bed.


Burning sensation and pain in the rectum can also be cured with carrot. Drink one glass of carrot juice twice daily for some months to cure this problem permanently.

The Magic Of Colors According To Ayurveda

 

Colors have a lot of significance in our lives. The world is constantly changing. What is the force behind this change? The whole magic of change is of the colors. If the color changes the nature also changes, and along with this the mind also changes. Change in color changes everything.

The colors influence the body, mind and emotions. External things have many influences on the human being and the most influencing factor is color. According to ayurveda, vata, pitta and kapha dosha are running the body or in other words they are responsible for the functioning of the body. Blue color is strengthening, cool and hence reduces heat and anxiety.

Blue color cures the diseases in people predominant with pitta. Green color is a blood purifier, natural and evacuates the foreign particles from the body. It subsides the diseases in a person who is chiefly of vata constitution. Red color denotes the fire element. It activates the nervous system and the blood. It activates all the five sensory organs. Red rays produce heat and circulate energy in the body. Red color is energetic and active. It is good for people with kapha constitution. If red is used again and again, it causes fever and inactivity and hence it should be combined with blue color.

White color is ideal for leading a secluded life a detached life away from the world. It makes the emotions pure and pious. Yellow color activates the nerves and the muscles. It is not an independent color. It is the combination of the red and green colors. It arouses the dead cells and activates them. It has the qualities to strengthen the nervous system and activate the brain. Yellow color is the color of intelligence and philosophy. It gets rid of mental weakness, disappointment and other negative qualities. It is denotes happiness and cheerfulness. Black color is not influenced; no color can be applied on black color. Hence it is used in the courtrooms to denote unbiased judgment.

According to a yogi, vedic sandhya includes three colors. They are red, blue and white, which denote Brahma, Vishnu and Mahesh. Vedic sandhya means the a person who meditates on all the three colors in the evening remains healthy physically and mentally.

Colors maintain the balance of our body. Some people are fat while some are thin. What is the reason for this? The reason is color; there is imbalance of colors in their body. Excess of red color denotes thin people and that of blue color makes the person fat. Where red and blue colors are in equilibrium, that person will be beautiful, well built with good figure and balanced.

Excess of red color makes the person angry and excited; less of blue color makes him selfish and self-centered. He is not bothered about others interests and losses. Red color will be useful where the matter is related to work. Laborers can lift heavy weight easily. If the color is blue the labor will become lazy. All the organs in our body have colors. Every component has its color. Externally the skin appears to be of one color only, the person who has studied the body in depth will understand this fact.

If we are successful in our lives then we will have to pay attention to the clothes that we wear. Colors have a broad affect. The colors not only influence the mental condition but also change it.

In this context an incident in Russia is very interesting. A few students of a school were very mischievous. This became a big problem for the teacher and school authorities. They were not getting the clue to their mischief. Not one or two, but all the students were highly mischievous. What could be the reason? Nobody was able to find the correct answer. The students who were appearing to be calm and quiet were also becoming mischievous. A lot of effort was taken but the reason for this was still mystery.

At last the color specialists were called. They researched a lot. The color of the school building was red, the doors, windows, carpet, students uniform, everything was red. The excess of red color increases mischief nature and hyper activity. The specialists advised that this color should be changed to green, pink or blue. The suggestion was accepted and the color was changed. The curtains, windows, doors, glasses etc. were changed. The result was astonishing, as soon as the color changed the student's natures also changed. The students became calm and quiet and were well behaved. The teachers and authorities were finally relieved of their problem.

The person who concentrates to see white color he experiences that his tension is reducing, the feelings are pure and pious. The headache gets cured. What is color? It is only a light. The 49the vibration of light is called color. It is the spectrum of colors coming from the Sun rays. It has one color. Color and light are not two different things. Color is the synonym for light, which is the affect of light. If The suitable colors mix then the effect changes.

It is our daily experience that when we sit near a person we feel happy and some people's company makes us sad and unhappy. We are filled with worries. What is the reason for this? We are surrounded with an aura of light, the person who has a pure aura, is made with good colors, the surrounding and atmosphere near that person is pure and pious. When the aura is made with bad color, predominant with night colors, then we feel unhappy and a negative feeling comes in. The mind becomes sad and unhappy. Red rays denote heat and blue rays denote coolness.

Obesity

Obesity is a condition in which individual is significantly overweight. Excessive body fat is accumulated on the belly, buttocks, breasts and thighs. This may lead to diabetes, hypertension and arthritis.
causes:
         mainly due to absence of physical activity. Other causes may be sleeping during the day, intake of Kapha - increasing foods (heavy, sweet, cooling and unctuous food in excess). Over intake of food.
Heredity and Pathology are rare causes 

Pathogenesis
         Body is made of 7- Dhatus {Rasa (Lymph), Rakta (Blood), Maans (Muscle), Meda( Fat), Asthi (Bones), Majja (Nervous System)Shukra (Reproductive System)}. But in Obese fellow Meda is excessively nourished and remaining other Dhatus get malnourished. Kapha gets accumulated in between. Roll of medicines with dietary correction is to remove obstructed Kapha and let all Dhatusnourish equally. When Kapha increases in abnormal fashion, Fat metabolism gets hampered and person becomes Obese.

Three important points for loosing weight:

1. Controlling eating habits.
2. Regular exercise.
3. Avoiding the causes of weight gain

A diet that helps to lose weight:
 

• Early morning - A glass of warm water mixed with the juice of half a lemon. A teaspoonful of honey can be added if you like.
 
• Breakfast - Wheat or Mung (green beans) sprouts and one cup skimmed milk.
 
• Mid morning- A glass of orange, pineapple or carrot juice.
 
• Lunch - Salad of raw vegetables such as carrot, beet, cucumber, cabbage, tomatoes. In case you can not digest raw vegetables, either steam or boil them. Whole grain bread or whole wheat chapatis (Indian recipe) and a glass of buttermilk. It will be good to add some roasted cumin seeds, green coriander leaves, a little salt and some grated ginger in the butter milk.
 
• Mid afternoon - Coconut water or dry fruits or lemon tea or vegetable soup.
 
• Dinner - Whole grain bread or chapatis, steamed vegetables and any seasonal fruit except banana and apple.

Diet and Regimen:

• Avoid cold drinks, fatty fried foods and chocolates.
• Fruits and green vegetables are low calorie foods, so over weight persons should use these more frequently include the green leafy vegetables, sprouted moong beans in your salad. Salad is to be taken without any dressing . If you want relish it, take it with lemon juice and salt. Salad should form a major part of meals
• One should avoid intake of too much salt . Salt may be a factor for increasing the body weight.
• Milk products like cheese, butter should be avoided because these are rich in fat. Meat and non-vegetarian foods should also be avoided.
• Vegetables like bitter gourd (Karela), and bitter variety of drumstick are useful for loosing weight.
• Avoid red meat (lamb/pork/beef) but be on white meat (chicken/fish). 
• Avoid Smoking/ drinking alcohol. 
• Do not drink water immediately after meals. Drink it after half an hour. Try to drink warm water. 
• 'Honey' - Taking honey is an excellent home remedy for obesity. It mobilizes the extra deposited fat in the body and puts it into circulation which is utilized as energy for normal functions. One should start with small quantity of about 10 GMs. or a tablespoonful to be taken with hot water. It is good to take it in early morning. A teaspoonful of fresh lemon juice may also be added.
• Exercise
  Exercise is an important part of weight reduction plan. It helps to use up calories stored in body as fat. In addition, it also relieves tension and tones up the muscles of the body. Walking daily for half an hour is the best exercise to begin with and may be followed by running, swimming and rowing. Increase physical activities in daily life. 

Herbs 
Herbs like amla (Emblica officinalis), Haritaki (Terminalia chebula), Bibhitaka (Terminalia belericia), Guggul are effective.

Ayurvedic Remedies for Erectile Dysfunction

Ayurvedic Remedies for Erectile Dysfunction 
Ayurveda defines Erectile dysfunction or ED as follows.

Sankalpapravano nityam priyaam vashyaamapi sthreeyam ||
na yaathi lingashaithilyaath kadaachidyaathi vaa yadi |
Shwaasaarthaha swinnagaatrshcha moghasankalpacheshtitaha ||
mlaanashishnashcha nirbeejaha syodetat klaibyalaxanam |

This means even though a man has a strong desire to perform sexual act with a cooperative partner, he cannot perform sexual act because of looseness (absence of erection) of his phallus (penis). Even if he performs sexual act with his determined efforts he does not get erection and gets afflicted with tiredness, perspiration and frustration to perform sex. 

Erectile dysfunction (ED) thus is the inability of a man to achieve or maintain an erection sufficient for his sexual needs or the needs of his partner. Erectile dysfunction may sometimes be even termed as "impotence". The term "erectile dysfunction" can mean the inability to achieve erection, an inconsistent ability to do so, or the ability to achieve only brief erections. 
Physiology of Erection 
The two chambers of penis (corpora cavernosa,) which run throught the organ are filled with spongy tissue. The corpora cavernosa are surrounded by a membrane, called the tunica albuginea. The spongy tissue contains smooth muscles, fibrous tissues, spaces, veins, and arteries. The urethra, which is the channel for urine and semen runs along underside of the corpora cavernosa ... 
Due to sensory or mental stimulation, or both, the erection begins. Due to impulses from brain and local nerves the muscles of corpora cavernosa relax and allow blood to flow in and fill the spaces of spongy tissue.  
The flow of blood creates pressure in the corpora cavernosa, making the penis expand. The tunica albuginea helps trap the blood in the chambers, thereby sustaining erection. When muscles in the penis contract to stop the inflow of blood and open outflow channels, erection recedes. 
In ayurveda physiology of erection and ejaculation is described as follows

Vrishunow basthimedram cha naabhyuuru vankshnow gudam |
Apaanasthaanamantrasthaha shukra mootra shakrunti cha ||

The 'apaanavayu' one of the five types of vayu is located in the testicles, urinary bladder, phallus, umbilicus, thighs, groin, anus and colon. Its functions are ejaculation of semen, voiding of urine and stools.  
Shushruta explains the process of erection and ejaculation as  - When a man has desire (iccha) to have sex, his response to touch increases. (Vayu located in skin causes flow of signals from skin to brain, thus causing sensation of touch). This causes arousal or 'harsha' . Arousal or Harsha intensifies actions of vayu and at this moment highly active vayu liberates the 'teja' or heat of pitta. Thus tejas and vayu increase body temperature, heart beat and blood flow causing erection.  
Causes of ED  
Erection requires a sequence of events. Erectile dysfunction can occur when any of the events is disturbed. Nerve impulses in the brain, spinal column, around the penis and response in muscles, fibrous tissues, veins, and arteries in and around the corpora cavernosa constitute this sequence of events. Injury to any of these parts which are part of this sequence (nerves, arteries, smooth muscles, fibrous tissue) can cause ED.  
Lowered Level of Testosterone Hormone: The primary male hormone is testosterone. After age 40, a man's testosterone level gradually declines. About 5% of men that doctors see for erectile dysfunction have low testosterone levels. In many of these cases, low testosterone causes lower sexual interest, not erectile dysfunction. 
The whole male body responds to testosterone.  
Even sushruta has illustrated about this response of body to the element 'Shukra' . He has said

"yatha payasi sarpistu goodashchekshow raso yatha shareereshu tatha shukram nrinaam vidyaadhbishagwara"

This means " The shukra (the element which helps in reproduction) is present all over the body. 
This can be explained with the following examples.

1.     The ghee is present in milk in an invisible form. This is extracted from milk using many processes.

2.     The sugar is present all over the sugarcane. It is extracted by subjecting the sugarcane to number of processes.

Same way shukra is present all over the body. But the cream of shukra (semen) comes out of the body only during the process of ejaculation. But this process of ejaculation needs a joyful union of mind and body. 
Decrease in production of 'Shukra' causes erectile dysfunction. 
Over Exertion - physically and mentally : Working for long hours in office, mental stress at office and home, short temperedness ,insufficient sleep cause erectile dysfunction.  
These causes are explained in Ayurveda as "shoka, chintaa, bhaya, traasaat .... " which means that erectile dysfunction or Impotence occurs due to grief, fear, anxiety and terror. 
Strained relationship with sexual partner: Erectile dysfunction also occurs when there is a disliking towards sexual partner. 
Ayurveda describes this as "naarinaamarasamjnatwaat..." means disliking for women. 
Diseases that Cause Erectile Dysfunction
Neurological disorders, hypothyroidism, Parkinson's disease, anemia, depression, arthritis, endocrine disorders, diabetes, diseases related to cardiovascular system also become reasons for erectile dysfunction.. 
According to ayurveda the diseases which cause erectile dysfunction are "Hritpaandurogatamakakaamalashrama..." - Heart diseases , anemia , asthma , liver disorders , tiredness .Apart from these the imbalance in tridoshas also cause impotence or erectile dysfunction. 
Consumption of medicines, drugs and tobacco: Using anti-depressants, tranquilizers and antihypertensive medicines for a long time, addiction to tobacco especially smoking, excessive consumption of alcohol, addiction to cocaine, heroin and marijuana cause erectile dysfunction.
In Ayurveda texts these causes have been said in brief as "rukshamannapaanam tathoushadham" - "dry food, drinks and medicines" cause impotence or erectile dysfunction. 
Trauma to pelvic region: accidental injury to pelvic region and surgeries for the conditions of prostate, bladder, colon, or rectal area may lead to erectile dysfunction. 
These causes are mentioned as abhighata (trauma), shastradantanakhakshataha(injury from weapons, teeth and nail.) in Ayurveda. 
Other reasons
Obesity, prolonged bicycle riding, past history of sexual abuse and old age also cause Erectile dysfunction. 
Ayurveda describes the cause of impotence or erectile dysfunction due to old age as follows. " diminution of - tissue elements, strength, energy, span of life, inability to take nourishing food, physical and mental fatigue lead to impotence"
Remedies for ED
ED is treatable at any age. The total treatment in for impotence is called asVajikarana therapy in Ayurveda. As this therapy increases the strength of a man to perform sexual act, like a horse, it is called 'Vaajikarana'. (' Vaaji' = Horse.)
Vaajikarana therapy leads to 
Happiness. 
Good strength. 
Potency to produce offspring. 
Increased span of erection. 
Eligibility for Vajikarana therapy:

1.     The vajikarana therapy should be administered to persons who are between 18 to 70 years of age.

2.     These therapies should be administered only to a self controlled person. If this therapy is administered to a person who does not have self control, he becomes nuisance to society through his illegitimate sex acts.

Psychotherapy 
Decreasing anxiety associated with intercourse, with psychologically based treatment helps to cure ED. The patient's partner can help with the techniques, which include gradual development of intimacy and stimulation. Such techniques also can help relieve anxiety when ED from physical causes is being treated. 
Same treatment is illustrated in Ayurveda. It has been said 'A woman who understands a man and is liked by him, along with erotic environment act as best aphrodisiac.' 
Drug Therapy  
Numerous herbal preparations are mentioned in Ayurveda to treat ED or impotence. It has been said that people who have strong sexual urge, who want to enjoy sex regularly have to consume these preparations regularly to replenish the energy, vigor, stamina and strength. These preparations also supply the nutrients which are necessary for production of semen. 
Ayurveda tips to overcome ED 
Erectile dysfunction which is a very common complaint can be generally rectified by following few simple steps. Here goes the list of simple but effective tips to rectify erectile dysfunction.

• Avoid consumption of alcohol. If you are addicted to alcohol restrict the intake. Alcohol acts on central nervous system and causes erectile dysfunction.
• Keep away from smoking. Men who smoke suffer from erectile dysfunction than men who do not. It is evident from researches. Smoking causes formation of plaques in arteries (atherosclerosis) which obstruct the blood flow.
• Avoid working for long hours. Take a break from regular routine at week ends and spend time with your partner.
• Practice Yoga and meditation regularly to keep away anxiety, depression and stress. Meditation and Yoga are best stress busters.
• Do not have the fear of not getting hard erections or do not doubt your ability to satisfy your partner. It will lead to psychological ED.
• Happy and comfortable atmosphere at home is very essential to stimulate sexual desire and keep sexually healthy.
• Exercise regularly and daily. Brisk walk for 45 minutes is the best exercise which keeps the cardiovascular system healthy. Researches have shown that the incidences of erectile dysfunction are less in men who regularly exercise.
• Weight reduction helps to increase testosterone level and increases sexual energy and stamina. Weight reduction helps to keep hypertension and diabetes in control. Diabetes causes erectile dysfunction and anti hypertensive medications may cause erectile dysfunction.
• Marijuana, heroin, cocaine etc cause erectile dysfunction. Withdrawing from addiction to the above mentioned substances really helps in increasing erections and sexual stamina.
• Reduce the frequency of masturbation. Masturbating twice in a week is ideal. .
• Massage whole body with herbal oil at least once in a week. This increases sexual energy and stamina. Body massage (abhyanga) is mentioned as the best aphrodisiac in Ayurveda.
• Sleep at least for 8 hours a day. Body gets energized with good sleep.
• Do not control natural urges. Empty your bladder before going to bed with your partner.
• Take all steps to prevent indigestion and constipation. Indigestion and constipation vitiate doshas and cause diseases. Hard erections will not occur when body is not healthy.
• Avoid hot, spicy and bitter foods which imbalance vata . According to Ayurveda imbalanced vata causes erectile dysfunction.
• Give a gap of four days between two consecutive intercourses.
• Regularly consume Vajikarana Preparations. Vajikarana preparations always keep men sexually healthy.

Home Remedy For Erectile dysfunction

• Consuming garlic is one of the best ways to treat sexual impotence. Chew two to three cloves of raw garlic, on a daily basis. In fact, you should include garlic in your regular diet.

• Onion is another very good vegetable to treat sexual impotence. It increases libido and strengthens reproducing organs. White onions are best for this purpose.

• Finely chop about 150 grams of carrots. Consume this, along with a half-boiled egg, dipped in a tablespoon of honey, once everyday. This will help increase sexual stamina.

• Take about 5-10 gm root powder of Ladyfinger in a glass of milk. Add 2 tsp of mishri in this milk and drink it. This will prove helpful in improving sexual vigor.

• Put 15 gm dried roots of asparagus in a glass of milk. Have this milk two times in a day. It will be useful in treating both sexual impotency and premature ejaculation.

• In 250ml of boiled milk, add 15 grams drumstick flowers. Prepare a soup from this decoction. Another effective way to use drumsticks would be to boil 120 gm of the powder of the dry bark in half a liter of water, for about half an hour. Yet another effective way would be to have 30 grams of this powder with a tablespoon of honey. Have this paste 3 times in a day.

• Ginger juice is beneficial in treating sexual impotence. Mix ½ tsp ginger juice with half boiled egg and honey. Have this mixture once every night. It is beneficial in curing impotency, premature ejaculation & spermatorrhoea.

• Dry fruits are effective in curing sexual impotency. Pound and mix equal quantities of dates, almonds, pistachios and quince seeds. 100 grams of this mixture, consumed on a daily basis, is said to increase sexual power.

• Wash 30 grams of black raisins in lukewarm water. Eat them with a glass of warm milk, daily. Increase the quantity by 50 grams after some time.

• Mix jambul fruit (Indian herb) with milk and add a little honey to it. Consume this mixture to treat impotence.

• Some of the items that help normalize hormonal imbalance and boost sexual craving are chickweed, ginseng, plantain and safflower. Include them in your diet.

• For female sterility, dry the roots of banyan tree and powder them into fine particles. Take about 20 gm of this powder with milk, in a ratio of 1:5. Have this for 3 consecutive nights after the menstrual cycle.

• Powder winter cherry herb. Consume 6 grams of this powder, with a cup of milk, for 5 to 6 days after menstruation.

• Including lots of seeds, fruits, nuts, grains, fresh green vegetables and fresh fruits in the diet is helpful in treating sexual impotence.

Give a gap of four days between two consecutive intercourses.

Source : Dr. Savitha Suri

Medicinal Use of Flowers at Home

Kamal (Lotus): There is a strong relationship between the lotus and Goddess Lakshmi (signifying richness and wealth). The lotus represents growth in nature. The honeybee makes honey with its pollens and the flower is used to prepare Gulkand. Gulkand is used as a medicine to cure constipation and other diseases. One can see green colored seeds inside the lotus flower, which are roasted to make makhana. If the raw seeds are peeled and taken as a medicine, it increases strength and vigor. It is cold in nature. It is used as eyeliner along with honey to improve the eyesight. The lotus leaves can be used as a cosmetic as well. Grind the lotus leaves and mix them with the ubatan (a pack made out of gram flour, raw milk, curd and 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder) and apply on the face. Rub it gently on the face, the skin glows and the face looks beautiful.

Kewda (Pandanus): It has a nice fragrance like Kasturi (musk). This flower removes odors and fills the atmosphere with fragrance. Kewda oil is beneficial for respiratory problems and provides vitality. Its perfume relieves headache and gout pain. Boil the flowers in water and take bath with this water, it is very beneficial in cases of leprosy, itching, small pox and heart diseases. A few drops of this flower added to water gives relief in headache and tiredness. In case of fever one drop of kewda essence helps the sweat to come out and the body temperature comes down. In case of severe pain in the ear, place two drops of its perfume in the ear. It will instantly relieve the pain.

Rose: Rose represents beauty, love and affection. The gulkand made out of rose is purgative in nature and reduces the heat in the intestines and stomach. It makes the heart and mind cheerful. Wash the eyes with rose water to reduce the redness of the eyes and swelling. Its perfume is vitalizing and its oil makes the mind cool. A few drops of rose essence is used in sweet dishes. It provides coolness during the hot summer season.

Champa (fragrant yellow flower): Grind champa flowers and apply it on the skin affected with leprosy. A few drops of this flower destroy the germs present in the blood. Dry the flowers and make a fine powder, use this powder to get relief from itching. Champa cures fever, improves the eyesight and gives strength and energy to men.

Aniseed (Saunf): Aniseed contains a lot of beneficial qualities. Boil the aniseed flowers in water; add cardamom and a few mint leaves in the water. It is better to boil the leaves in a ceramic pot and keep the water aside. When the water gets cold, give one teaspoon to small children and to babies who are getting new teeth and those who are suffering from extreme heat. This reduces the stomachache and the teeth will also grow in the correct manner.

Marigold(Gainda): Grow marigold flowers near dirty ponds and near the surroundings of the house to protect the house from mosquitoes. It is also beneficial in liver diseases, swelling of the liver, stones and skin diseases.

Jasmine: This flower possesses a very good fragrance and grows especially in the summer season. Decorate the house with Jasmine flowers. You can keep a garland near you or in a vase, which will give freshness and fragrance. Its smell reduces the burning sensation. Women who have the problem of mild menstruation should chew a few petals of this flower. The menses cycle will become regular and the menstruation also becomes normal.

Night Queen: Commonly known as 'Raat ki Rani' possesses an extremely good fragrance, which can be felt from a long distance. The flower produces fragrance from evening to midnight and after that it gradually reduces. Another advantage of this flower is that mosquitoes are kept at bay. Its fragrance makes the person drowsy and puts one to sleep.

Sunflower(Suraj Mukhi): Sunflower contains vitamins A and D. It cures diseases which occur due to sunlight. Its oil is especially beneficial for heart patients and it reduces the level of cholesterol in the blood.

Chameli: Oil of this flower is used in skin diseases, pyaria, toothache, wounds, eye diseases, boils, etc. It increases the blood flow and activates the entire body. In case of mouth ulcers chewing the leaves of Chameli provide instant relief. This flower also contributes in providing mental happiness.

Saffron: This flower gives happiness and glowing skin. It gives strength, stops vomiting and destroys wind, bile and phlegm related problems (all the three dosha disorders). Saffron cools down the anxiety and stress present in different systems. Hence it is also known as a natural tranquilizer. It gives vigor, strength, activity and glow if consumed along with betel leaf.

Ashok: It is also known as Madan tree. The flowers, skin and leaves of Ashoka tree are highly beneficial for women and are used as medicine to cure several diseases. Its powder has the potential to cure most of the diseases related to women.

Palash (Forest Flame): It is considered to represent immense beauty because of the yellow flowers which grow on the tree in bunches. The tree looks very attractive from a distance. It is also called Forest Flame due to this quality. Its powder can cure any type of stomach problem. Boil the flowers in water and make a fine paste, keep this paste on the lower part of the belly to cure problems of stones. In case of acute pain due to the presence of stones or painful urination this medicine is highly beneficial.

China Rose (Gudhal): This flower is related to the uterus. Roast this flower in ghee and consume it after your menstruation cycle. This will protect the pregnancy. Chew a few China rose flowers to cure mouth ulcers. If you are suffering baldness or loss of hair, make a fine paste with these flowers and apply it on the scalp. It gives coolness and purifies the blood. It can be taken in the form of squash or Gulkand to cure Sujak (gonorrhoea) disease. China Rose squash is especially beneficial and makes a person happy and cheerful.

Shankhpushpi (Blue creeper): It is also known as 'Vishnukanta' and is found in summer season and appears to be some kind of grass. Grind the flowers, leaves and stem. Mix the paste with water and add honey or sugar candy. This medicine is extremely good for refreshing the mind and overcoming lethargy. Students are advised to take this regularly to cope up with stress, burden and competition.

Acacia: Grind the leaves of Acacia tree and apply on the head to get rid of headache. Apply the paste on skin affected with eczema and ringworm; it is beneficial for skin diseases. It also gives relief in cough and respiratory problems. Gargling with the acacia leaves helps stop tooth decay.

Neem: Grind the flowers of the neem tree and make a fine paste, apply this on boils and wounds to reduce burning sensation and heat. Rub the paste on the body and take bath, this is good to cure ringworm problem. Neem leaves are also useful for reducing weight. Grind the flowers, mix the paste in water and sieve it nicely. Regular consumption of this solution reduces weight and purifies the blood. It protects the body from infectious diseases. Neem has many uses and hence is also known as 'doctor of the home'.

Clove: This destroys the bacteria present in the pancreas and intestines. It increases the white blood cells and thereby the resistance power of the body. It also stops bad breath. It works like a painkiller, in case of pain in any part of the body. Rub the clove on a grinding stone and apply the paste on the painful area. Suck a clove incase of severe pain in the teeth. Smoking clove excretes all the unwanted elements through sweat.

Juhi (a kind of Jasmine): Make Gulkand or powder from the Juhi flowers. This medicine is beneficial for acidity, stomach ulcer and mouth ulcers. Living under the proximity of a Juhi tree protects one from tuberculosis.

Madhawi (Basil, a kind of creeper, which gives fragrant flowers): This flower is beneficial to cure skin diseases. Prepare powder from these flowers and apply the lep (pack) on the affected area. In case of arthritis, chew these flowers in the morning. It also controls respiratory problems.

Harsingar or Parijat (Coral Tree): This flower cures arthritis. The face pack made with these flowers gives glowing skin. Its sweet smell makes the mind cheerful.

Swallow-wart (medicinal plant - Aak): This flower removes phlegm and burning sensation. In case of jaundice, keep a few flowers in one or two betel leaves and give it to the patient. This medicine is very beneficial for this disease.

Kadamb: It is also known as Madan tree. If the cattle are suffering from some disease, keep the flowers and leaves in the cattle shed; the disease will not affect the cattle. It grows in rainy season and was the favorite tree of the 'gopikas' of Lord Krishna.

Kachnar (flowers of this tree are used as a vegetable): The bud of this tree blossoms in rainy season. The buds are useful in controlling the urge to pass bowels at small intervals. You can also make a poultice from the skin and flowers along with water and apply it on burn wounds and boils.

Shirish (Acacia tree): It is a wild tree possessing a nice fragrance. Its fragrance coming along with the wind refreshes the mind and makes a person happy. In case of itching sensation, grind the flowers and apply on the paste on the affected area. Prepare a decoction of the flowers and wash the eyes, this is useful for any type of eye problem.

Naagkesar (medicinal tree): It looks like clove. It destroys itching sensations. Make a powder of these leaves and consume it with butter or curd, this is beneficial in bleeding piles. It is also beneficial for conceiving a child.

Bakul (tree with fragrant leaves): The flowers of this tree are mixed with oil and used to make perfumes. Make powder of the flowers and apply it on the skin. This will make your skin becomes smooth. The squash of these flowers cures infertility in women. Use the stem of this tree for brushing teeth; it cures all dental problems.

Amaltaas (purgative medicinal plant): It grows in the summer season and the yellow flowers of this plant grow in bunches. It is very pleasing to the eyes when seen from a distance. Gulkand of these flowers is beneficial to cure constipation. Excess consumption is harmful and can cause dysentery, cramps in the stomach and ill feeling.

Pomegranate: In case of bile related eruptions on the body, prepare the juice from the pomegranate flowers, add sugar candy and drink it. Suck the flowers to cure mouth ulcers. Pour the juice of pomegranate bud to cure conjunctivitis.

Source: Indian Devine

Hair Problems - 2

HAIR LOSS

      Hair loss, alopecia, thinning of hair and balding is some of the common hair problems. Many of us suffer from these ailments due to our modern lifestyle and diet. Ayurveda can be very beneficial in treating these conditions as it investigates the root cause of the problem. First understand the ayurveda body types and then the causes for these hair conditions:

• Excess of Pitta dosha in the body is the chief cause of hair problems. Pitta is increased by excessive intake of tea, coffee, alcohol, meats and excessive smoking. Pitta is also aggravated by eating too much fried, oily, greasy, spicy, sour, and acidic foods.

• Intake of too many chemical medicines, low blood circulation, anemia, general weakness after disease, stress, and mental tension are also prime causes of hair loss

·         • Chronic diseases like typhoid fever, presence of dandruff or lice and hormonal imbalance also cause hair  loss       

So  • So watch out carefully for these reasons! You may be overdoing one of them, and thus losing your beautiful hair.   

      Hair Loss Causes

       • There are many things that aggravate the problem of hair loss. The major ones are:  There are many things that aggravate   the problem of hair loss. The major ones are:

      • Stress is the root cause of any problem and the hair loss problem is also associated with stress

      • Severe or prolonged illness of about 2 to 3 months. Any major surgery also leads to hair loss

·        • Hair loss also occurs because of disbalance in harmones. Like overactive or underactive thyroid    glands leads to hair     fall. If any male or female harmones such as androgens or estrogens are out of balance the the hair fall occurs.

·        • Baby's delivery in mother also leads to hair loss.

·        • Intake of strong medicines causes hair loss.
       •Major hair loss occurs because of some fungal infection and diabetes.

      Ayurvedic Treatment for Hair Loss:

        As per ayurvedic hair loss treatment, hair are considered as a byproduct for bone formation. So the tissues from which the bones are formed causes the growth of your hair. People who have straight and blonde hair will face the hair loss problem more than others. Also graying of hair in these people will be sooner than the people having thick and coarse hair. 
In ayurvedic hair loss treatment different things like herbs, yoga, meditation, yoga, balanced diet, and oil massage are combined to give the positive result.

        • The first step is to locate the root cause in your diet or lifestyle that may be increasing the Pitta dosha. Once you locate it, try to give up or at least reduce the diet, habit, or activity responsible for increasing Pitta.

        • The person should maintain a regular bowel movement everyday. In case of constipation, a mild natural laxative can be taken.Triphala, an Ayurvedic herbal powder, is also useful.

        • Regular physical exercise is very beneficial as it helps in balancing the aggravated doshas.

        Massage for Ayurveda Hair Loss Treatment

      • Always use a natural shampoo or soap to clean the hair. As most soaps and shampoos have chemicals, they might be the cause of your problem. Usually the chemicals have a heating effect, and increase Pitta locally. Amala (embilica officinalis), Shikakai (Acacia concinna) are very commonly used in India for washing the hair.

        • Oiling and massaging of scalp is very beneficial for stopping the hair loss. Use coconut oil or mustard oil at least three times in a week. Certain medicated oils like 'Mahabhringraj oil' 'Amala oil', and 'Arnica oil' are very useful. Put oil on the scalp, and massage gently in the roots of the hair.

        • Rub your scalp vigorously after washing the hair. It increases the blood circulation, and activates the sebaceous glands. Take the oil that contains vitamin E. Vitamin E prevents the hair fall and reduces the brittleness of hair and also cure the dry and flaky skin.

        • Daily application of coconut oil mixed with lime juice on the hair is also beneficial. Applying juice of green coriander leaves on the head is also good.

        • Washing the hair with a paste of cooked Urad dal (black beans) and fenugreek (methi) 2-3 times a week, is also good.

        • A paste of licorice made by grinding it in milk can be applied in the bald patches. It induces hair growth. A paste of seeds of lemon and black pepper may also be applied on the bald patches.

       Food and Home Remedies for Ayurveda Hair Loss Treatment

        •The diet should contain more green leafy vegetables, salads, milk, fruits and §  sprouts. Take more proteins, milk, buttermilk, yeast, wheat germ, soybean and vitamin A.

• Every morning eat white sesame seeds as these have plenty of magnesium,and calcium that are essential for the growth of hair.

• Daily eat curd.

• A special Ayurvedic preparation made from Bhringraj (Eclipta elba), Amala, 

§ corals, iron and black sesame seeds is very useful, and even stops the graying of hair.

• A mixture of lettuce and spinach juice is good to drink to induce hair growth.

 The juice of alfalfa mixed with that of carrot, and lettuce juice is also good to take.

• Drink 1/3rd cup of aloe vera juice daily. You can also take 1 tbsp of aloe vera gel with a pinch of cumin. Take it thrice a day for 2-3 months to control hair loss.

Herbs for Ayurveda Hair Loss Treatment:

§         • Take apple cider vinegar and sage tea to rinse your hair. This induces the growth of hair.

§         • If your hair are dry then consume burdock and marshmallow tea.

• Massage your scalp regularly with horsetail.