Ayurveda works on the principle of tri-doshas which state that there are three doshas residing in our body: Vata, pitta, and Kapha. These tri-doshas should be in equilibrium. One will develop a disease if these doshas lose their balance or equilibrium.
Summers in India can get pretty hot, so there is an increase in pitta dosha in hot summers, which can cause indigestion, nausea, skin disorders, hyperacidity or acid reflux.
Amla (Phyllanthus Emblica or Indian Gooseberry) is native to India and grows in tropical and subtropical conditions. Thus, it has been extensively used in many parts of India as traditional medicine or for its nutrients. Regionally, amla is known by various names as Amalaki, Dhatri, or Amrutphala. In Ayurveda, amla has been described as peculiar green plum-like fruit that has all six tastes (except saltiness). It has been referred for a host of health benefits that involve improving digestive health to relieving cough in respiratory diseases.
The herb is known by different names. It is known as Brahmi in Hindi, Water Hyssop in English and its botanical name is Bacopa monnieri. It finds mention in a number of ancient Ayurvedic texts like Atharva Veda, Charaka Samhita and Sushruta Samhita.
Brahmi is quite a prominent Ayurvedic herb, mostly famous for its ability to work as a tonic for the brain. Ayurveda classifies the herb as a Medha Rasayana which means herb that provides longevity and improves memory and intelligence.
Brahmi is a perennial creeping herb with soft and non-aromatic and can grow up to 6 inches in height. The herb is sometimes also called a water aquarium plant since it can grow in water.
Agni (digestive fire) is the main governor of the body because overall digestion determines the health of an individual. According to Ayurveda, there are four types of agni based on whichever dosha is imbalanced in an individual. They are:
In Ayurvedic scriptures, seasons (ritus) are very well explained along with dietary measures and lifestyle changes in the respective seasons. But a sudden change in the season leads to many abnormal functions inside the body, which is also explained in various Ayurvedic texts. Therefore, adaptation to the changes for the upcoming season must be started 15 days prior. (Refer Ritu Sandhi)
Fennel seeds are also known as saunf (variyali). It was considered to be auspicious in ancient times. Every kitchen has fennel seeds. It is used to add flavours to salads, curries and desserts.
Tinospora cordifolia (Guduchi) is a large, smooth, perennial, deciduous, climbing shrub of weak and fleshy stem found throughout India. It is a widely used plant in Ayurvedic systems of medicine.
Ayurveda is not merely medical science, but it is the science of life. The aim of Ayurveda is to prevent disease and to maintain health. Acharya Charaka has explained that the strength and lustre of human beings who knows the suitable diet and regimen for every season and practices accordingly are enhanced. But habituated things if to be given up then it is to be done slowly and gradually otherwise it may lead to Asatmyaja roga (allergic disease).
It is said that about 89% of the population of India suffer from stress which is higher than the global average of 86%. Stress has become a common mental health issue in India due to the work demands and the financial pressures of modern life. As far as the body is able to cope with stress, it acts as a normal stimulus required for our physical and social well-being and is known as eustress. On the other hand, stress becomes distressed when the individual is unable to cope with it and without any relief. Thus, eustress helps in improving the performance, whereas, distress is known to induce a number of clinical conditions. Distress can disturb the body’s internal balance or equilibrium, leading to physical symptoms such as headaches, an upset stomach, elevated blood pressure, chest pain, sexual dysfunction, and problems while sleeping. Conditions like depression, panic attacks, or other forms of anxiety and worry can result from emotional problems. Research suggests that stress also can cause or worsen certain symptoms or diseases. Heart disease, cancer, lung ailments, accidents, cirrhosis of the liver, and suicide are the leading causes of death due to stress.
