Stress relief with ayurveda | Herbal stress relief

For an athlete the last few yards to the finishing line are completed under the rush of adrenaline. In fact adrenaline and cortisol are two of the several enzymes released by the body when we need to react above and beyond our usual normal capabilites. It is this intense reaction that allows us to brake on time to avert an accident, to make a successful presentation, to finish a project within a deadline. The stress response is the flight or fight response of the body and it goes into this mode whenever it detects danger.

For animals, the flight or fight response is a life saver. For humans living in modern society, while most new situations are not of the life or death variety, they are still challenging enough for the body to revert to its need to protect itself by pushing itself to get out of the face of danger or to fight it.

Stress related problems arise however when the body is constantly exposed to challenging situations or rather when we perceive situations to be constantly difficult. The body stays in overdrive and with time mental and physical systems start breaking down. Heart problems, obesity, arthritis, skin conditions are only some problems that have been directly related to stress. Stress has its effects on our emotional health as well leading to nervous breakdowns, depression, isolation and pessimism.

When you recognize symptoms of stress, you need to bring your body into a state of relaxation so that it can once again function as normal. Socializing, building healthy relationships with friends and co-workers, exercising, having hobbies are all excellent ways to beat stress.

Ayurveda recommends herbs such as Ashwagandha and Bacopa to relieve stress and relax the body and mind. The beneficial effects of ashwagandha are well known in autoimmune and digestive diseases such as arthritis, IBS, Crohn's disease and colitis.

Read more on stress causes, symptoms and natural methods to beat stress

Bitter Melon research for diabetes

The international journal Chemistry and Biology published a study conducted by the Garvan Institute of Medical Research, Australia and the Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica. The report established that bitter melon or karela contains four compounds that activate the enzyme AMPK. This enzyme is known to increase metabolism and sugar utilization by the body. In fact the reason diabetic patients are told to exercise is because exercise causes muscles to activate this same enzyme AMPK.

Insulin resistance in type 2 diabetic patients occurs because a)sufficient insulin is not produced and most importantly b)the sugar in the blood is not absorbed and utilized efficiently into energy by cells. Scientists involved in the study indicated that though there are prescription diabetes drugs that also activate AMPK, they are likely to have side effects while bitter melon has absolutely no known side effects. Bitter melon is eaten as a vegetable in asian countries on a regular basis and prescribed as an effective natural means to prevent and control blood sugar.

More on Bitter Melon benefits and studies

Diabetes drugs Avandia Actos raise risk of fracture

A report published in the Dec. 10 online issue of the Canadian Medical Association Journal indicates that Avandia and Actos - two drugs that are prescribed for diabetes double the risk of bone fracture in women. They do not have the same effect in men. It is speculated that these drugs interact with estrogen thus weakening bones in women. 10 trials were conducted including over 13,000 diabetic patients.

Previously Avandia was stated to have serious side effects of heart failure, heart attack and death. This caused the FDA to increase label warning on the drug. These drugs known as thiazolidinediones are taken by about 4 million people in the US.

Type 2 diabetes can be controlled by diet, exercise and alternative medicine. The National Institutes of Health has recognized GYMNEMA as a herb that helps in controlling blood sugar and cholesterol levels. Being a herb, no side effects have been reported.

Read more on Gymnema benefits and action

Hemorrhoids herbal treatment | Hemorrhoids ayurvedic relief

Hemorrhoids or Piles occur when veins in the anal region become swollen. Pressure, straining and difficulty in passing stools causes the surrounding membranes to get irritated. There can be external or internal hemorrhoids. Internal hemorrhoids generally cause bleeding but no pain. External hemorrhoids can be painful and also bleed when wiped or after a bowel movement. In addition to straining while trying to have a bowel movement, hemorrhoids can also be caused by pregnancy, obesity or sitting or standing too long.

Pilex is an ayurvedic medicine developed by the Himalaya Herbals company and clinically proven with studies to relieve the pain, inflammation and bleeding caused by hemorrhoids. Unlike preparation-H which provides temporary relief, Pilex tablets reduce the pressure on veins, shrink the pile mass and stop the bleeding. It also softens stools and thereby helps easy bowel movement preventing any further irritation. It is composed of nine herbs and minerals such as Guggul, Neem, Amla, Haritaki, Vibhitaki, Indian laburnum and shilajit amongst others. Pilex Gel as an analgesic action and provides quick topical relief.

Herbal remedies for immunity against colds

Fall, winter and early spring are months when coughs and colds are most prevalent. Being indoors more often brings everyone into close contact. The cold dry air outside and air heaters inside also dry up the inner lining of the mucous membrane of the nose allowing viruses to attack more easily.

Washing hands frequently is a good method of getting rid of germs however it is not always possible to do so. The best way of dealing with coughs and colds is preventing infection in the first place. Here are some methods and herbal remedies that are highly effective in keeping colds at bay

1. Every morning before you consume anything else, make a drink of the juice of half a lemon and a spoonful of honey mixed with a cup of hot water.

2. Take a spoonful of Dabur Chyawanprash everyday. It is very tasty and can be had on its own. It has over 40 herbs and is chockful of anti-oxidants and vitamins.

3. Either take triphala in powder form or as a capsule with lunch and dinner.

4. Vasaka is also an excellent remedy during the winter months to prevent colds. If you do have a cold, it gets rid of phlegm.

Read more on ayurvedic herbal remedies for coughs and colds

Varicose veins causes | herbal remedy varicose veins

Varicose veins are very common and affect 50% of the population aged over 50 years. Women are more likely to get varicose veins. Varicose veins generally form on the inside of the leg and the back of the calf. Pregnant women tend to get varicose veins in the lower pelvic region.

When veins are unable to pump blood back to the heart on account of weak muscles and valves that do not seal owing to weak walls, the blood tends to collect in the veins causing them to bulge and twist. Varicose veins are primarily caused when pressure is applied. The veins of the legs have the hardest job in pumping blood to the heart. They have to work against the force of gravity and have to bear the weight of the body. As a result the pressure is immense and can overcome the strength of the valves. Therefore legs are most likely to develop varicose veins.

Varicose veins can get worse over time and when inflamed generally cause pain. In severe cases, when blood continues to stay accumulated without reaching the heart, blood clots can form. If these blood clots travel especially to the lungs, they can be life-threatening. Ulcers can form on the skin and form wounds.

Relief from varicose veins can be obtained by some simple techniques such as wearing supporting stockings, elevating legs when resting, avoiding salt which can cause water retention, exercising regularly and giving up smoking.

Pilex is a herbal ayurvedic formulation that is very effective in relieving pressure on veins and reducing inflammation.

Find out more on natural remedies for varicose veins

Inflammation treatment with herbs | Herbal relief for inflammatory diseases

Inflammation generally occurs when the body's immune system is called into action. Any kind of infection or injury results in inflammation sometimes followed by pain, heat and fever. As soon as the body detects a threat, white blood cells swarm to the spot and fight the infection or injury (such as a twisted ankle). Therefore inflammation is necessary for healing.

However when the body's immune system is out of control chronic inflammation results. Chronic inflammation leads to tissue destruction and persistent pain. This leads to serious conditions like arthritis and colitis. Most of the body's defence systems are located in the gastro-intestinal tract to keep bacteria from food at bay. It is therefore not surprising that many major inflammatory diseases affect our digestive system. Diseases such as IBS, IBD, colitis, ulcerative colitis, crohn's disease are all digestive tract related. It has also been found that many of these conditions are found in the developed world and only recently are there increasing cases in developing countries as well. This clearly points to our diet and environmental exposure.

The trend towards processed foods and sugars causes the digestive system to be unable to cleanse itself sufficiently. This can cause a build-up of toxins triggering the body's immune cells and inflammation. A modern lifestyle also exposes us to environmental toxins such as plastics and other chemicals not to mention the build-up of stress. In fact auto-immune diseases like arthritis are known to be caused by inflammation and stress.

The following are important Ayurvedic herbs that have shown astounding benefits in relieving inflammation, pain and stress as well as in clearing the body of toxins.

1. Triphala - Triphala which is composed of 3 pure herbs in equal proportions (amla, haritaki, vibhitaki) is the best remedy for intestinal cleansing and promoting digestive tract health. It tones the colon and rejuvenates the intestinal lining. It is anti-inflammatory and anti-bacterial.

2. Boswellia - Boswellia has been scientifically proven to reduce inflammation and provide pain relief in diseases such as arthritis and colitis. It has been shown to be as effective as NSAIDs in many cases without any side effects. Boswellia is considered the premier herb in Ayurveda in fighting a wide range of inflammatory diseases. It has been shown effective in inhibiting pro-inflammatory cells

3.Ashwagandha - Ashwagandha is also a famous anti-inflammatory herb. In addition it induces relaxation and stress relief. A combination of Boswellia and Ashwagandha provides excellent relief in autoimmune inflammatory diseases such as arthritis, rheumatoid arthritis and crohn's disease.

4. Guggul is another herb used to treat rheumatoid arthritis.

5. An ayurvedic formulation called Rumalaya Forte contains these important herbs as well as others. It has been subjected to clinical studies and offers pain relief from arthritis, bursitis, rheumatoid arthritis, gout and other painful bone and joint disorders. It also helps rebuild connective tissue.

Lower blood pressure with herbs | Herbal remedy to lower blood pressure

The following are herbs well known in lowering blood pressure and optimizing it.

Arjuna is a herb highly recommended by Ayurvedic practitioners to lower blood pressure and heart rate. It is also sknown to lower cholesterol and heart related problems

Fresh garlic juice is also considered excellent in reducing blood pressure

Ashwagandha is a herb recommended for reducing hypertension and stress and inducing relaxation.

Hawthorn is also known as a herbal heart tonic that has been used as a European and Chinese folk remedy to reduce blood pressure.

There are several other ayurvedic herbs also known to aid in preventing and treating hypertension. In fact Abana is a herbal medicine formulated by the renowned Himalaya Herbals company that incorporates all the ayurvedic herbs and minerals known to aid in lowering blood pressure and promoting heart health. It contains 40 herbs and minerals including Arjuna, Ashwagandha, Shankhapushpi, Mandukaparni, Guggul and others in a formula prescribed by ayurveda for optimium heart health. Being completely natural it has no side effects and can be taken as a daily health tonic to prevent heart attacks, heart disease, lower blood pressure and remove stress. It can even be taken by people with normal blood pressure as a means to maintain optimum heart health.

Diabetes and obesity | type 2 diabetes cases rise with obesity

Recent news reports showed that type 2 diabetes cases doubled in the US in the past decade. Most of the new diabetes cases were in the Southern states. These same states also showed the highest increase in obesity with Mississippi, West Virginia, Alabama, and Louisiana having over 30% of the population that was either obese or overweight as per the CDC standards.

Diabetes mellitus and obesity are closely linked and these report confirm the problem. Being overweight is the single most important reason for high blood sugar levels. Diets high in fat and sugar cause the body's natural ability to synthesize glucose to break down causing diabetes. It has also been shown that African-americans, Hispanics and Asians are prone to diabetes.

Losing weight and exercising are essential to bringing diabetes into control.
Read our article on natural ways to control diabetes

Spirulina Prices reduced | Parrys Spirulina

Spirulina is an algae that has the highest complete protein content of upto 71% and is chock full of vitamins, minerals and essential nutrients. It is very well known for its ability to help the body stave off infections, build strength and immunity.

With the advent of the winter season when cases of common cold and other infections dramatically goes up, the need to build up the body's immune system is all the more important. FavorFinesse is now offering Parrys Organic Spirulina at hugely discounted prices and FREE SHIPPING.

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Dabur Chyawanprash | Chyawanprash for immunity

Chyawanprash is perhaps the oldest and best known ayurvedic formulation. The formulation was originally found in an ayurvedic text dated in the 4th century BC. According to Hindu mythology, Chyawan Rishi was a sage who married a young princess. Desiring to regain his youth, he appealed to the divine physicians Ashwini Kumaras who prescribed a herbal preparation called Prash to him. Chyawan Rishi took this medicine and became young and strong again and thus ChyawanPrash was introduced to the world.

Dabur Chyawanprash was first marketed in 1940 in India and is the best known Chyawanprash brand today. Composed of 40 herbal ingredients, in a base of Amla pulp, Chyawanprash is an excellent health tonic that builds immunity against colds, rejuvenates body cells and improves overall strength and vitality.

The formulation is in the form of a spicy sweet and sour jam that can be taken on its own or with milk or as a spread. It is commonly taken in India on a daily basis by children and adults especially during winter time for protection against colds and other infections. On account of its vitamin rich ingredients, Chyawanprash works as a very good cold and cough remedy.

Read more on Dabur Chyawanprash ingredients and benefit

Herbs for mental illness | Herbal treatment for mental disorders

Herbs such as Bacopa (Bacopa monnieri) and Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) are considered premier brain tonics (medha rasayanas) in Ayurveda. These herbs are specifically beneficial to brain tissue. They prevent brain aging and help in regenerating neural tissues. They also have an adaptogenic, stress-relieving and memory enhancing effect. In addition to ayurvedic evidence based on experience, several clinical trials and scientific studies have shown the efficacy and promising results of such herbs and ayurvedic formulations using these herbs.

In a 1993 study involving 286 adults with mild, moderate and severe mental retardation, it was found that those subjects with mild to moderate retardation showed significant improvement in concentration, memory and cognitive abilities after being given bacopa daily for 1 year. Similarly in a study conducted in 1999 it was found that children with mild to moderate mental retardation also showed substantial mental improvement after being treated with Mentat for 6 months.

Children with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) also showed significant improvement after being treated with Bacopa and Mentat. Read more on the clinical studies.

Herbs for inflammation | Gout, Arthritis, Crohns Disease, IBS

Medical conditions such as arthritis, Gout,Crohn's disease and Irritable bowel syndrome, have one common factor - inflammation. Inflammation of joints, tissues or lining is what gives rise to pain and discomfort. In addition to inflammation, these conditions are also linked with stress. Stress can be physical or mental, internal or external.

Common prescriptions to combat these ailments are in the form of pain killers and anti-inflammatories likes NSAIDs. However some of these medications bring side effects that simply add to the misery. Herbs such as Boswellia and Ashwagandha are well researched for their ability to control inflammation, pain and provide stress relief. The best benefit is that these are free of side effects.

Natural antioxidants for skin | skin care with antioxidants

Antioxidants are chemicals that protect our cells by neutralizing external forces (such as damage from the sun, pollution, wind, and temperature) and internal factors (for example, emotions, metabolism, and the presence of excess oxygen). They counter the effect of toxic free radical molecules by stabilizing them. Common antioxidants are Vitamins A, C, E, and beta carotene. These special chemicals assist in skin repair and the strengthening of blood vessels, which results in healthier skin.

Antioxidants can be endogenous (produced by the body) or exogenous (obtained through the diet). Endogenous antioxidants include enzymes, coenzymes and sulfur-containing compounds such as glutathione. Exogenous antioxidants include vitamins C and E, bioflavonoids and carotenes. In fact, the term “antioxidant” is applied to dozens of different kinds of nutrients, botanicals and supplements, from grape seed extract and selenium to alpha-lipoic acid and superoxide dismutase. So a healthy diet with good helpings of Vitamin C & E can give us our dose of much needed antioxidants. Fruits such as grapes, apples, bananas, melons, and citrus fruits (as well as juices of these fruits), and vegetables such as dark green leafy vegetables, carrots, cauliflower, onions, and beets all are very high in antioxidant content. Also nuts and mushrooms are high in antioxidants.

Free radicals are toxic molecules which are highly unstable. They attack healthy cells causing cellular damage, the root of many health problems. The skin is particularly vulnerable to free radical attack. These dangerous oxidizing molecules speed up the rate of skin ageing. Normal body processes generate free radicals. They are also produced by a number of external factors such as pollution, tobacco and the sun. Another factor is stress; stress produces adrenaline-related products, which not only restricts blood flow to our skin, but also generates potent, destructive free radicals

Natural antioxidants that quench free radicals are an essential component of anti-ageing formulations. They potentially protect damage to tissues from the detrimental effects of environment and other agents. Biochemical reactions that accelerate the progression of skin ageing have their roots in inflammatory processes ,as inflammation generates micro-scars that mature into blemishes or wrinkles.

Himalaya Anti-Wrinkle Cream is packed with anti-oxidants. On application, it penetrates deep into the skin. It nourishes, moisturizes and emollients and thus keeps skin fresh and soft. Composed of 14 herbs, Himalaya Anti-wrinkle cream helps to smooth wrinkles and fine lines and tones the skin.

More information on Himalaya Anti-wrinkle cream ingredients and action

Ayurslim for weight loss | Lose weight with Ayurslim herbal capsules

Ayurslim capsules from Himalaya Herbals is a well researched clinically proven herbal ayurvedic formulation. Ayurslim is all natural comprised of herbs such as garcinia, guggul, gymnema, chebulic myrobalan and fenugreek. Ayurslim works in three ways to reduce weight:

1. Ayurslim reduces the desire for food thus reducing food intake
2. Ayurslim helps in proper absorption and utilization of nutrients
3. Ayurslim restricts the synthesis of fatty acids thus reducing fatty deposits

Ayurslim is useful in controlling weight, hyperlipidemia and craving for sugar.

Ayurslim works best when taken with a reduced calorie diet and at least half an hour of exercise a day.

If you have complications such as diabetes, heart problems and hypertension, you should take Ayurslim under advice from your doctor. Pregnant women should not take Ayurslim.

Ayurslim capsules are comprised of the following herbs:

Garcinia cambogia (Garcinia, Vrikshamla) reduces the synthesis of fatty acids in the muscles and liver and fat production (lipogenesis)

Commiphora wightii (Indian Bedellium, Guggulu) is well known in reducing cholesterol and triglyceride levels.

Gymnema sylvestre (Meshashringi) abolishes the taste of sugar and helps in effective sugar metabolism

Terminalia chebula (Chebulic Myrobalan, Haritaki) helps in detoxification and purgation.

Trigonella foenum-graecum (Fenugreek, Medhika) helps in reducing weight

Reduce or reverse arterial plaque | Hardening of arteries

Arterial plaque build-up has serious consequences. This is an inflammatory disease whose symptoms show up very gradually. Plaque in coronary arteries can cause chest pain, heart attacks and stroke. Fatty build-up in cerebral arteries can lead to partial paralysis and stroke. Peripheral arteriosclerosis or build up in arteries of the legs and pelvic region can cause circulation problems which leads to reduced sensitivity leaving the limbs vulnerable to burns and frostbite.

It has been found that arteriosclerosis is more common in developed countries and can be directly related to lifestyle. Various well known factors such as high cholesterol, obesity, hypertension, stress and smoking cause arteriosclerosis or hardening of the arteries. It is possible to not only prevent and reduce but actually to reverse arterial plaque build-up by following a healthy lifestyle which includes regular exercise, weight control, avoiding fatty foods, avoiding stress and reducing cholesterol and high blood pressure.

Arjuna Herb is best known for its heart healthy properties. It helps to reduce plaque, reduce cholesterol, maintain proper blood pressure and strengthen heart muscles. Guggul is the best known herb for reducing cholesterol naturally. Ashwagandha is an anti-inflammatory and stress reducing herb.