Treatment/Prescription.

Article.

TREATMENT/PRESCRIPTION

The medical profession is not/should not be a business but  a
divine act/art  in reaching the patient in a natural way, as far as possible,
to regain the lost balance i.e. deviation from normal health given by the
Almighty.  I would like to compose the requirements in this connection, in laymen’s language.  





The word ‘treatment’  defined by me as a Physician in Naturo/Alt. Medicine,  
in my own words, is as under: 

Trust
   Race
      Economical
         Ability
            Totality
               Malady
                  Effective
                     Nip in bud
                        Tackle
                      
Trust  

It is necessary for the patient to have trust in the practitioner that he/she
will handle the treatment in the best possible manner and the practitioner’s behavior should be in line with the same. 

Race

The practitioner will be on a ‘race’ from starting till finishing the treatment
to reach the patient in regaining the health.

Economical

If it is not economical, it will be inconvenience to the patient and the
practitioner should try his/her best to avoid unnecessary expenditure
to be borne by the patient in treatment.

Ability

Ability of the practitioner, of course, is counted in curing the problems
suffered by the patient.

Totality

Totality of symptoms (both physical and mental) are considered in the
treatment by the Practitioner and not just the existing one or two problems
in order to give a holistic treatment.
  
Malady

All physical and mental problems are to be taken care of in the treatment.

Effective

The steps taken by the practitioner in treatment should be effective as far
as possible.

‘Nip in the bud’

A ‘nip in the bud’ policy should be adapted by the practitioner in getting
rid of the expected problems by the patient as the same is in line with
the ethics.

Tackle

The practitioner should be able to tackle the inconvenience as far as
possible in the treatment with the patient in its required manner.













As part of the treatment, in Prescription also I have my own views as under. 

The practitioner should be careful in prescribing natural/herbal medicines 
to the patients that include advice to abide by the requisite natural methods
of exercise etc. to be adapted.

Here, I would like to define the word ‘Prescription’, in my own words, as
under:-

Politeness
   Rapport
      Encouragement
         Sacrifice
            Cure
               Response
                  Individuality
                     Perfection
                        Tempo
                           Ideal
                              Oxygen
                                 Nature

Let’s see how the above mentioned words - each one stands for.

Politeness: 

The practitioner behaves with politeness and convinces patient of the
efficacy (of the treatment).  This behavior of the practitioner plays an
imperative role without which the patient may not make up his mind and 
continue the treatment.  In other words, it is to be remembered that lack 
of politeness and pleasing manner on the part of the doctor becomes a reason for the patients to abstain from the treatment. So, the same 
should be taken care of.

Rapport:

Similarly, a good doctor-patient relationship during the course of treatment becomes advantageous to conclude the treatment successfully.  It
becomes part of duty for the practitioner to enquire from the patient about
his/her personal matters, in its required manner.

Encouragement:

The patients get enough encouragement in their activities that are needed,
duly pointed out the advantages and disadvantages.  ‘Without a bold mentality, nobody can acquire the goal at the end’ would be the advice that is received
by the patients. 

Sacrifice:

While, “Nature is the Physician” and “Be food your medicine” etc. are the
basic principles in Nature Cure methods, patients are advised to do some
sort of ‘sacrifice’ by avoiding certain food items liked by them, availing the
ones disliked  and by avoiding certain circumstances that create and/or
aggravate the problems. Ultimately, it certainly put the patients in relief and thus cure, in due course.

Cure:

The doctor selects methods and medicines that are not only meant for
relief but also for complete cure as well as prevention of reoccurrence in
the future.

Response:

A periodical check up becomes indispensable for the practitioner to know
as to how the methods and medicines (natural, of course) work with the
patient.

Individuality:

Treatment is not for the disease, but for the ‘patient’ as from patient to
patient symptoms differ in same disease!  So, the system ‘individualizes’ the treatment and cure the individual as a whole!  

Perfection:

The naturopathic practitioner handles the human body and mind carefully; ensures to give a perfect holistic treatment than giving a treatment
for a particular problem which is not in line with the real science.

Tempo:

The Practitioner maintains the same/similar tempo – the same rhythm of
art of treatment throughout the duration of treatment as a matter of principle.

Ideal:

Before and after the treatment, the patient feels that the treatment that
he/she undergoes is the ideal one out of the rest.

Oxygen

While giving treatment, the practitioner advises the patient for availing
sufficient oxygen by doing breathing exercise/Pranayama and thus allows 
the body to flow oxygenated blood which is essential for a healthy body
and mind.

Nature:

Last but not the least, the Nature Cure and Alternative Medicine are  methods
of treatment in line with Nature availing natural foods, medicines, exercise etc. making use of the five natural elements viz. Earth, Water, Fire,
Air and Space! 

ASTHMA – CURE WITHOUT DRUGS

Asthma Cure – I recollect the caption underneath a photograph that appeared in a newspaper a few years back.  The snap shot was of a man opening his mouth wide and catching a rat at its tail, about to swallow it!  In the sense, by swallowing rats, he was following a traditional method that exists in a Far East country to fetch a cure from asthma.  So, it means that an asthma patient may go to this extent if his sticky situation reaches to an end.  Isn’t it?  Of course, asthma is some times horrible not only for the patients but also for the ones who observe that unfortunate sight of and fight for breathing. (They may tell others to leave the place and not to witness the scene leaving them alone!) Nevertheless, I feel that the patients can still choose a better way than the horrifying method that narrated above.

The practitioners in modern medicine believe that asthma is caused by allergy in most of the cases.  There is no shortage of different systems of medicine in our country and thus numerous medicines are available in allopathic and also in other systems.  However, many of these medicines – particularly those in line with modern medicine, even after taking proper advice - while giving a relief to the patient or subsequent to the sign of ‘cure’, do result/terminate in other ailments, especially skin troubles!   (As a result, the patients are trying different systems of medicine, one by one, making the case still worse!) On the contrary, the Naturopaths advise natural and safe methods of treatment to cure asthma – of course gradually and thus completely without any ill effects.   

Asthma is caused by excess of phlegm and some times the body loses its ability to expel the same.  A teaspoon measurement of turmeric powder mixed in a glass of warm milk helps to expel the excessive phlegm. Also, when the bronchial tubes get congested, the patient becomes unable to breathe easy but with difficulty by making wheezing/rattling sound and having chest pain.   

Normally, by experience the patient knows as to why and/or when asthma occurs in his/her case.  Accordingly, it is advised to avoid such a circumstance as a timely precaution.  Some are allergic to some particular types of smell of perfumes and cosmetics, weather conditions, food items and also when in contact with certain materials.  To some, physical and mental exertions cause the complexity.  Hence, as mentioned, the patient has to take a preventive measure by understanding his/her nature.

In my opinion, reducing the medicines (that the patient has been taking) gradually and thus wholly in due course - depending upon the severity of asthma, should give importance to the proper eating habits. In order to prevent formation of phlegm, milk and milk products, sugar, rice, fried items etc. are to be reduced or avoided - also, the food items that make constipation.  In this connection, intake of sufficient quantity of water – preferably warm water (if it is a decoction of cumin seed, well and good) is a significant factor to be remembered so as to avoid constipation and also to avoid the attack of asthma.  Over eating or a stomach full meal is not at all advisable.  

The asthma patients are required to fast once in a week and also occasional enema will help to cleanse the bowels and thus clear the movement of bowels.   

Decoction of Adathoda leaves is very effective in asthmatics.  Similarly, juice of basil leaves with honey is proved much beneficial in Bronchial Asthma. 

Naturopaths advise the patients for doing Pranayama (Anuloma-Viloma, Ujjayi etc.) and certain Yoga exercises.  Pranayama can prevent the patient’s nature of bronchial passages getting congested. The writer does remember very well that years before a well qualified medical practitioner in modern medicine had advised his asthma patient to do Pranayama (when he is not suffering the problem)!  I do admire the doctor’s open mentality to accept the fact from his experience.  In the treatment by nature cure methods, the physician considers not only the main symptoms but also the total picture of the symptoms presented by and observed in the patient with a view to eradicate the root cause, as the aliment/s have a tendency to move from its ‘center’ to the ‘circumference’ and create more tribulations – especially when the patient has a history of treatment by powerful medicines with side effects!    In fact, the words ‘treatment’ and ‘cure’ will have their real, inner and vast meaning only when the patient is treated by this required manner i.e. treatment to the ‘patient as a whole’ and not to the ‘particular ailment’.  

In a nutshell, let me mention boldly but without feeling the need of blowing a horn, by taking up natural methods of treatment, asthma - as same as the other so-called chronic ailments - could be cured without any medication and losing the body’s vital force by unwanted medicines that pave way to other ailments.

- =o0o= -

PS: THIS WAS PUBLISHED IN NISARGOPACHAR VARTA.

ARTHRITIS IN NATUROPATHY

     Mrs. X is a hypersensitive lady; she can’t tolerate pain at all – whether it is physical or mental.  In this circumstance, slowly if she has developed Arthritic problem,  just try to imagine her position.  Yes, literally she began to cry while explaining the problems suffered by her.  As same as some other patients, after trying Modern Medicine, which consists painkillers and then another system of medicine unsuccessfully, the case came to my hand.  A couple of month’s treatment did definitely give her a considerable relief.  Subsequently, I advised her on the routine that is to be followed and asked her to report if there is any problem.  Since then a few months have elapsed and once, incidentally, when I asked her on phone as to how she is and how is the pain, she asked me in reply, “what pain”?!  Well, let her not remember it, I thought for a while as  I didn’t want her to cry.  Nevertheless, I advised her to continue the natural medicine that I prescribed, at least for a few more months.

   What is Arthritis?  It’s inflammation of the joints and is one of the most pervasive types that extends the problem to muscles, tissues etc.  The word, “Arthritis” has been derived from Greek words; Arthro means joint and itis means inflammation. Mostly, people above the age of fifty - fifty five start showing symptoms of this imbalance of the body.  Further, if not taken care or not treated in its required manner, Arthritis may lead to various other problems and ultimately end up in disability too! The patients suffer severe pain, swelling around the joints and stiffness.  Septic and Gouty Arthritis are caused by joint infection and deposition of uric acid in the joint respectively.  The term Osteoarthritis refers to the ailment resulting from structural changes that take place in the cartilage of the joints in the old age and Rheumatoid Arthritis affects muscles and tissues also besides joints of wrists, fingers, knees etc.  As same as some other diseases, the reasons for this disease could be many including hereditary which could be considered as a prime factor.

     The Modern Medical Science gives much importance to diagnosis and the treatment with required medicines and equipment depends upon the same.  In some Alternative Systems of Medicine, symptoms are considered important,  as the indicated remedies do show result when the same are matched well with the symptoms after administration of remedies that drain out the ill effects by medication and its deposition in the digestive system.  But, when symptoms change, accordingly the medicines also are to be changed giving little inconvenience both to the patient as well as the practitioner. 

     Well, now let’s see it from the Naturopathic point of view.  As the “disease”, like any other disease, is considered as an “imbalance” of the body/mind, to bring it into “balance”,  a detailed study of daily routine of the patient by the Naturopath is a must.  There will be a root cause for any imbalance and it may pave way to other tribulations, one by one.  In a quite natural way and without any remedies that give after effects, the same are to be attended.  The word, “cure” (not just relief) will have its real meaning only when the “disease” is removed from the root as otherwise, if not immediately, at a later stage definitely it will reoccur with same, similar or different symptoms of disease/s!  While this is the truth, unfortunately, laymen’s including well educated people’s  understanding is that “cure” means disappearance of the existing symptom/s “immediately” with just one doze of medicine or so (without knowing the background well as mentioned above)!        

     The patient has to avoid constipation keeping aside his/her likes and dislikes at least for some time.  If required, the patient could be given a lukewarm enema, in order to make the bowel movements clear. The diet should include fresh fruits and vegetables.  Salad of raw vegetables viz. tomatoes, cucumber, cabbage, beat, carrot, radish, onion etc. sprinkling there on some lime juice (and little salt to taste, only if it is a must for the patient) are advisable. 

     Depending upon the patient’s total symptom picture, some of the food items may not suit to the patient. Also, in general, cold water and eatables – particularly, refrigerated ones are not advisable at all.  The pain and the associated problems of Arthritis aggravate by cold and in cold season. 

     Obesity is really an obstacle so as to carry the right weight by the knees, ankles etc. and thus for the smooth functioning of muscles, tendons and ligaments.  If the patient has obesity, the same is to be attended with proper diet in order to reduce the body weight as well. 

     Massage with mustard/peanut/sesame oil can be given to the affected part.  While mustard oil is good for relief from pain, peanut oil and sesame oil are better for application due to their anti-inflammatory properties.  A complete and regular massage to the palms and feet in the morning and evening will not only give a considerable relief but also it will activate the inner organs to normalize their functions.  You must have observed the old people doing this or others for them, just from the life experience. 

     Wheat Grass is found highly beneficial in the treatment.  It is called as a natural miracle remedy in the treatment by Nature cure methods.  It can be grown in the house and raw juice prepared from the grass is a natural food supplement.  It helps to overcome the existing problem and also the associated ones by regaining the vital force, which was reduced or lost by the body.

     Doing Pranayama – Ujjai Breathing, Anuloma-Viloma, Bhramari and also Kapalbhati along with Meditation at the end for a few minutes will help the body to get oxygenated pure blood (removing the impure blood from the system that creates lot of problems and ultimately resulting in the imbalance of the body) and also to get peace of mind.  Moreover, some simple Yoga exercises slowly slowly (not advisable while suffering from severe pain) by standing, sitting and lying viz. trikonasana/vrikshasana, vajrasana (with the help of a pillow, if required)/padmasana, shavasana etc.  will definitely help to eradicate the problems.

     In short, like a number of other ailments, Arthritis also can be cured and the patient can be brought back into normalcy (considering the age factor) by advising for proper attention to be paid to the food habits, exercise, massage and natural medicines that are advised by a Naturopath (without any medicines that give side effects) depending upon the problems and its severity.  Just, a firm determination to adopt natural methods is required which would save the patient from unnecessary medication, expense and from its hard and fast rules (but, still with ill effects).  That’s it.  

                                                                             

(Published in the March ’07 issue of Nisaropachar Varta, NIN, Min. of Health, Dept. of Ayush.)

- =o0o= -

APPENDICITIS – CURE BY NATUROPATHY

     Appendicitis is a serious intestinal disorder. The patients complain of abdominal pain that may start from the middle side of the abdomen and settle at the right side.    Almost such cases come to the Naturopaths & Physicians in Alt. Medicine when other systems of the medicine fail or do not show the expected results with the medicines prescribed subsequent to the clear pathological investigations, X-Rays etc. 

     Let’s see what this Appendicitis is.  It is the stage of inflammation of vermiform appendix.  With several inches in length and with resemblance of a worm with a closed end, appendix is located at the end of caecum which is in the beginning of large intestine.  In normal case, for the laymen’s knowledge, this vermiform appendix has no functions as such as same as tonsils in the mouth.  On the other hand, if both get inflamed, they begin to give problems!    

     Indigestion and constipation due to improper eating habits become a reason for stomach troubles and also the malfunctioning of intestines and appendix.  Moreover, the ineffective and unnecessary usage of medicines – those too giving ill effects makes a ground for creation of waste and poisonous matters giving additional burden to be responded by the abdominal organs.  Additional burden, I mean, normally the Nature does not allow any unwanted materials and foreign bodies to remain in our body and it naturally shows its tendency and does throw out the same without giving any serious problems as such.  But, if the unwanted and accumulated waste and poisonous materials in the ceacum cannot be drained out by the so called natural process, they become the reason for infection and inflammation of the appendix!    The inner lining of the appendix produces mucus.  Also, this mucus and/or the stool passed through become thick sometimes creating a blockage resulting in swelling and inflammation of the appendix.  When the inflammation and infection spread, the appendix may rupture which ultimately and unfortunately spread throughout the intestines and this process becomes easy particularly with the presence of germs there!  Both the children and adults are likely to have these problems.  When the blockage occurs, it affects the intestinal muscles’ smooth functioning as a result of which formation of gas etc. takes place.  It leads to the discomforts to the patient by abdominal pain, acidity, nausea, vomiting, belching etc. sometimes associated with mild fever   and all these become worse by improper intake of food due to loss of appetite as well.                           

                                                                              

     If not treated in its required manner, acute appendicitis turns into chronic and paves way to further tribulations viz. gas problems, untimely or frequent desire for stool with diarrhea or constipation (though both are contradictory to each other!), vomiting etc. giving a complete discomfort – both physically and mentally to the patient to carry on with his/her activities.  See how the entire system and thus the whole person is affected when a very small portion of the body is irritated by us knowingly or unknowingly deviating from the normal and natural manner! 

     The Appendicitis and the related problems can very well be treated by simple and appropriate Nature Cure methods of proper diet and Yoga exercises advised same as for so many other imbalances.  Banana (after removing the black seeds inside) with little lime juice added with honey is said to be beneficial for Appendicitis.  It is always to be remembered that while treating for the existing problems, all the possibly related problems are to be taken into consideration with a view to give the patients a “cure” (not a just relief) and further, also a  prevention from  the same or similar tribulations.  There lies the greatness of treatment by Nature Cure methods. 

     First of all, rest is very important.  The treatment, its duration and cure always depend upon the severity of the existing and all the related problems.  In severe cases, it becomes necessary for the patient to get admitted for the treatment so as to ensure a maximum better way to the satisfaction of the practitioner.       The Naturopaths put the patients on fasting, without giving any meals or liquids, except water.  Naturally, after fasting, the cleansing process of the bowels is done by giving enema. The same will be repeated, if required.  Similarly, the physicians in Alternative Medicine, before starting their actual treatment give their medicine with a view to drain out the waste materials and the ill effects from the body.   Fasting is important in the treatment by Naturopathy in general and in the treatment for Appendicitis in particular. A massage by hand on the abdominal area will be beneficial to reduce the pain.  If required,   hot fomentation/cold packs are also given so as to bring the pain into control.            

     Subsequently, the patients will be advised for taking only fresh fruits or natural  fruit juices of carrot, beat, good quality oranges etc.  Milk diet can follow the same.  After fasting and cleansing the bowels, these liquid diets of water, fruit and milk with its sufficient presence of food and water definitely make a clean and clear base for eradicating the ill effects. 

     Gradually, boiled green and leafy vegetables, grains, dry fruits etc. are better advised in order not to take heavy meals in line with the efficacy of our system of treatment.  The determination of the patient to abide by these is a significant factor to get him/her cured with simple, inexpensive but effective methods – not finished, without any ill effects that create by the medicine. 

     Another important point is that the patient should take maximum care in avoiding constipation and indigestion, as they are the root causes, as mentioned in the beginning of this article.  In this connection, sitting in Vajrasana for some time in the morning and evening does help the patients for sure.  While sitting in Vajrasana or Sukhasana, if Pranayama – Anuloma Viloma could be performed, enough oxygen would be available and thus the pure oxygenated blood starts flowing through the body!  Moreover, while sitting in Padmasana or Sukhasana when Kapalabhati performed, all the toxins accumulated get out from the body!  Nevertheless, particularly in Kapalabhati, as the exhalation is sudden and as it affects the abdomen, it is not that advisable when the patient has pain in the abdominal area.  Also, some other simple Yoga exercises viz. Vrikshasana, Trikonasana, Sarvangasana etc. facilitate the patients in maintaining balance of the body to fight with the existing and related problems. 

     In a nutshell, Appendicitis, as same as so many other disorders is not a serious problem at all and the same can be cured if treated applying Nature Cure methods, as well as some simple Yoga exercises, systematically. 

-= o0o =-

This was published by Nisargopachar Varta.

SORRY, I AM ALLERGIC.

     “Doctorsaab, please give me a B. Complex injection.”  One of the patients enters and continues,  “I feel tired”.  No wonder; by regular experience of visiting his family doctor, in normal case, the patient knows what is wrong with him and what could be the physician’s remedy.  Accordingly, wherever possible, as “experience is the teacher”, the patient would do a self-treatment as well, if required.  

     The polyclinic where the above-mentioned scene did take place a few years back was of a doctor friend of mine.   At that time, I was sitting there and talking to him.  Getting up from the seat on seeing that patient I came out. “How are you?”, I asked smilingly to the man who came there along with the patient.  He was waiting outside.  “Fine now, but I have the problem of allergy and I am also under treatment of the doctor.”  Yes, I have seen this man before somewhere and I could immediately remember his dialogue once to somebody’s query, “I am allergic to cold water” while he was not taking bath at an evening while his friends were doing so. Normally, the patients themselves know what is/are allergic to them and what could be its consequences.  Accordingly, they keep away from the same with a good intention not to put themselves in trouble like this friend. 

     Well, let’s see now what is this “allergy”.  The word, “allergy” is emanated from two Greek words - allos which means “other” and ergon means “reaction” - resulting in immune malfunction. It was Dr. Clemens Pirguet, an Austrian pediatrician who used this term “allergy” first. 

     In this article, I would like the readers to go through as to how Naturopathy deals with the allergic disorders.  In a layman’s language, while “immunity” (resistance power) is the strong base so as to keep the body in balance to fight against the diseases, “sensitivity”  to certain things becomes the reason for losing this balance i.e. the resistance power.  This so called sensitivity is known as allergy.  Person to person, immunity is not found alike.  It is as same as the fact that in person to person, normal temperature of the body is little different, temperament is different, character, behavior etc. are different and also pathological investigations on the body requirements are definitely found different!  Some people will become sensitive/hypersensitive, with a weak immunity, when they happen to be in contact with a particular substance or substances unlike other people in common.  This is the answer to the frequently asked question by the patients as to why all are not suffering from allergic disorders.   Further, they start getting the ill-effects derive from there.  Any organ or part of the body can be affected by allergy.  Sometimes it could be purely mental too!  (I know a gentleman who does not wet his head most of the time while taking bath and when I asked for the reason, “if I do so, I may die” was his answer!  In addition, his wife stated in a combined tone of seriousness and humour, “all the members of his family are like this!”)   

     The physical as well as mental exertion can cause allergy and its corollary of difficult breathing leading to Asthma and other respiratory problems.  Allergy could be to due to eating of food with adulteration of chemicals etc. Even otherwise, some particular drugs, certain food items like ice cream, milk, eggs, and fish, tinned/canned foods with artificial additives, preservatives etc., vegetables viz. tomatoes and potatoes, strong perfumes, smell of smoking etc. and of course certain climatic conditions may create various tribulations like continuous cough and cold, sneezing, head ache, chest pain, stomach disorders, skin eruptions and various other problems.  I know some people who are allergic to gold ornaments (if wore), sandalwood paste (if applied on the forehead) and agarbathi (if smelt)!  Very strange – is n’t it? Allergy points towards a state of disturbed harmony which could be due to a wrong style of living, wrong eating habits etc. and sometimes a wrong understanding and thinking too.   In short, reactions of allergy would occur within seconds when the patient comes in contact with the allergen.  In the sense, the patients suffer from sneezing, coughing, watering in eyes, itching, difficulty in breaching etc. depending upon the allergy.  As same as in a number of other ailments, allergy also will have the background of heredity, but not in everybody.  In the case of heredity, the patients are to be more cautious and naturally it will take more time than others who have no such a background. Yes, commonly speaking, chronic diseases - whatever it may be – will take time despite of taking care in applying natural methods and natural medicines; there is no shortcut for the treatment – the problems are to be eliminated from the root.    

     While the recommended remedial action is to take care of the patients themselves by avoiding such a circumstance to the maximum extent, they also have to build up the immunity, in order to overcome such circumstances in future by seeking advice from a Naturopath.  The vital force that is present in the body is not to be disturbed by action that is not suitable to the individual as far as possible.

     As in the case of any other diseases, problems of allergy can lead to so many other problems and vice versa.  Therefore, a complete check up becomes necessary – symptomatically and systematically, and also if required with help of pathological investigations.  Mostly, the patient must have gone through all these, which could be understood, from the patient but still without success by the prescribed medication.  There lies the essence of treatment by Nature Cure methods in order to save the patient from grip of the problems that exist as well as the ones that are expected later, if unattended.     

    

     First of all, stomach and bowel movements should be clear giving up the foods that constipate.  Fresh leafy and green vegetables, fruits and fruit juices are always advisable not only to avoid constipation and the connected problems including that of falling into the stage of allergy to the circumstances as narrated above but also for a healthy living at all times building up the body stamina so as to fight with the ailments.  Water intake should be sufficient avoiding more tea, coffee and smoking and also the other fundamentals of health should be maintained.  Naturopaths put the patients in fasting followed by enema,  on a diet of selected fruits and then on vegetables depending upon the nature and severity of the symptoms suffered by and observed in the patients.  

     In line with Naturopathy, the patients are given treatments by Mud Therapy, Hydro Therapy, Chromo Therapy and also Acupressure to the selected points of the body (and also palms and feet) in order to eradicate the allergens and to normalize the immunity.  Moreover and most importantly, besides these drugless therapies, the patients are advised to keep away from the circumstance that makes them allergic and to take care of their eating habits including fresh fruits, green and leafy vegetables, raw vegetables, whole grain products, sprouted seeds etc.  (with a view to ensure sufficient intake of vitamin C, E and alkaline contents that are essentially required as preventives) and at the same time avoiding too much of tea, coffee and non-vegetarian items (that may slower the process of cure).     

     Giving massage to both the palms and feet at least once in a day for about 5 – 10 minutes will be beneficial with a view to activate the inner organs in general; to maintain immune system of the body without falling into imbalance. 

    

     Some simple Yogic exercises - Tadasana, Simhasana, Sarvangasana,  Shavasana etc. when performed regularly will help the allergic patients to overcome the situations.  Moreover, Meditation and of course Pranayama - Anuloma-Viloma and Kapalabhati, in order to get enough oxygenated blood and also to throw out the toxins accumulated in the body, would definitely give the performer wonderful results. In other words, the suggested Yogic exercises, Meditation and Pranayama bring the body and mind back into balance and the thus acquired immunity prevents from becoming allergic and facing its consequences. 

 

     In a nutshell, one has to simply abide by the basic fundamentals of the Health Science trying to understand its importance for a healthy living and have to perform according to the Nature adopting the natural methods, particularly in line with the advice of your Nature Cure Physician for the existing problems including that of the allergic condition. Yes, there are no hard and fast rules here to be applied but just some simple and natural methods, which would save you from unnecessary medication and its after-effects.  Moreover, isn’t it worth if you can withdraw your usual telling of, “sorry, I am allergic to such and such” whenever and wherever you go and mingle with others?!  And, of course, others, who had witnessed your unfortunate background, will appreciate you for getting changed the same with your patience and perseverance in the required manner.

                                                                             

-      = o0o = -

PS: This article was published by Nisargopachar Varta.

Complete Freedom From Constipation

Complete Freedom From Constipation

     Are you cautious enough about your health condition? If so, constipation and also the state of indigestion that are the root causes of a number of diseases are to be eliminated first from the nip of its bud itself.  Most of the health problems derive from a deranged stomach starting from acne, boils, gas problems etc. and its chronic stage results in piles, anal fissure, appendicitis, ulcer, rheumatic problems, high blood pressure etc., furthermore, even in cancer like chronic ailments! Hello, are you afraid on going through this list, which in fact is still incomplete?  Then, listen please.  Don’t worry, I repeat do not worry at all, but just take it easy and forget about these consequences provided you take little care about yourself!  A humorous grand father once seriously advised his grand son who leaves the home to a distant place of his work that he always should take care of  ‘Madhya Pradesh’ (stomach) and ‘Uttar Pradesh’ (brain)*!  The grand father was, in fact, telling from his experience in life that taking appropriate food in time and avoiding unnecessary tension are the key factors that one should remember always.   Since we talk about something connected with the former part here, let’s go ahead with the same.  

     Innumerable medicines are available in the market to get a relief from constipation.  But, it is not at all advisable as the same would be of a habit-forming nature and also would leave side effects due to chemical action created by these so-called laxatives and palliatives.  Above all, this is not in line with the true natural and scientific way of treatment and furthermore, self-medication does harm to the body gradually in contradiction to one’s expectation.   The Homoeopathic and Ayurvedic Physicians normally do start their treatment for chronic ailments by giving remedies, which of course do not contain any chemical substances (at least never in its crude form to harm the body – I believe), to clear the bowel movements first so as to remove constipation, if present, and even if not, to drain out the ill effects of the medicines consumed by the patient; while Naturopaths use to give enema so as to get the system cleansed without any medication. 

     Here, I would like to give the readers some tips - a few simple and natural methods to be adopted - in order to cure and also to prevent constipation of any stage. 

1. Consume easily digestible food items only, preferably vegetables.  You have to control your mind and take a firm decision in this connection keeping aside your likes and dislikes.  Though not immediately, certainly you would be used to this habit in due course. 
2. Try to take your food in time and avoid eating in between.
3. Take vegetable salad consisting cucumber, carrot, beat root, cabbage, spinach, tomato etc.  preferably before the meals. 
4. Avoid the foods and drinks that constipate i.e. bakery items, foods prepared out of white flour, milk with sugar etc., but take unrefined foods that prepared from whole grains etc. and fresh fruit juices.  
5. Chew your food properly and avoid overeating.
6. Include fruits in your meals, which could be taken after drinking water of your desired quantity or have a fruit salad as supplementary to your food. 
7. Drink enough water after the meals only and avoid drinking during the meals.
8. Drink decoction of fenugreek (boiled in water) at least after your supper.
9. Avoid sedentary habits and take enough exercise, preferably yogic exercises.  Sitting in ‘vajrasan’ for a few minutes and doing breathing exercises in the morning would give wonderful results.
10. Visit toilet for the second call of nature twice a day – morning and evening at regular timings.  
11. Avoid taking more coffee/tea and also smoking.
12. In the case of chronic constipation, cold and hot fomentations at a gap of few minutes on the abdominal area and hips (if a hip bath is inconvenient) while retiring, provided you finish your supper before one and a half to two hours, would be beneficial.  
13. Last but not the least; avoid the food items that (from your experience which you come to know) do not suit to your body constitution. 

      As you would find from the above, there are no hard and fast rules to be followed but a few simple and natural methods are to be adopted.  For chronic constipation, which of course is normally followed by other imbalances of the body, it would be better to consult a Naturopath for guidance on the nature cure techniques including yogic exercises that required depending up on the cases. “Where there is a will, there is a way.”  Don’t you like to maintain your health without any medication as far as possible and by adopting some simple natural methods i.e. without getting addict to any drugs but to a drugless therapy???

     Incidentally, my dear readers, I boldly recommend you to go through the Health Recipes written by Dr. Hemalatha Murthy in this magazine regularly and try to include such dishes in your meals. In this connection, I also take this opportunity to express my hearty congratulations to the doctor in particular and the publishers of “Nisargopachar Varta” in general for their noble tasks in building up a healthy society.

     Let’s now go back to subject matter.  Yes, a complete freedom - not only from constipation but also from all the allied problems of your body constitution and moreover from the slavery created by a habitual intake of medicines, which, of course, would leave ill effects - could be achieved with utmost satisfaction if you are willing to lead a natural life!    So, constitute your body in order not to constipate and thus invite ailments to lead a miserable life. 

     Thus, if you are in line with Nature as far as possible; then take it as granted that Nature will not let you down but will certainly take care of you to its maximum extent! 

                                                                      

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*Madhya Pradesh and Uttar Pradesh are two States in India.  Madhya Pradesh means middle area and Uttar Pradesh means top area.  Here, middle area means stomach and top area means brain! 

This article was published in Nisargopachar Varta.

ARE YOU ANEMIC?

T he boss of an establishment, subsequent to his interviewing one of the candidates, wrote down under remarks column of the Interview Report seriously that “though the candidate seems to be fit for the post applied according to his professional experience and educational qualifications, he looks anemic”.  Dear reader, before proceeding further with your reading, I would like to mention something: Please go through this article with an interest of reading a story, which is not fiction but a fact.

Let’s now see as to how the above-mentioned employer is cautious about the company employees’ health as it ultimately affects their service to be rendered to the company!  Can you blame the employer?  In another case, during a marriage proposal, the boy’s father informed about his finding to the broker on seeing the girl, “I think, she is anemic”.  Of course, a father has to take care of his son’s married life with a healthy girl, as far as possible or as far as he could find out on the same from reliable sources.  Isn’t it so? 

Further, while this writer was sitting with a friend who is a well-qualified medical practitioner in modern medicine in a well-known hospital about a two and half decades back, the doctor told his patient on examination that his problem is anemia.  I observed, the doctor did prescribe some vitamin and iron capsules as his remedy to this malady! 

Well.  I now invite your attention to the naturopathic point of view on the subject.  As Hippocrates said, we, the Naturopaths believe, “food shall be the medicine”.  Just change your food habits to adopt natural methods along with some other requirements viz. ‘exercises’ etc. as narrated here in this article.  May food be your medicine instead of your swallowing medicines as food. That’s it.  

What is anemia?  It’s a condition in which blood is deficient in quantity, in red blood cells - the “couriers”, in our body that do the service of carrying oxygen from lungs via bloodstream to brain and the other organs and tissues, or in hemoglobin and which is marked by pallor, weakness and irregular heart action with a lack of vitality in total.   Iron plays a significant role in regulation of the body temperature and hence some people with iron deficiency feel cold and numbness in the extremities! The patient will be of pale face and skin, with lack of appetite and lack of a better appearance in general. Anemia, if not taken proper care, could be associated with a number of serious diseases in due course. At the same time, anemia could be due to a number of health problems as well.  As per the signs and symptoms presented by the patient, it could be heart or kidney problems, diabetes, inflammatory diseases and cancer!  As per modern medical science, Iron Deficiency could pave way to the extent of Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV)! No, no – don’t be so serious.

It, of course, is customary to attend the root cause here i.e. the condition of anemia is to be removed from the nip of its bud in its required manner, understanding whether the condition is acute or chronic caused by the tribulations as narrated in this article.  As an ailment has a tendency to travel from the center to the circumference presenting the same or similar symptoms, we need to attend to the root cause at the center.  The connected problems that “traveled out from the center to the circumference” thus lose it grip with the center and vanish away being unable to receive any support from the center.  (This is as same as a good warrior does in order to defeat his main enemies and making the supporters helpless!)  If you think in a natural and positive manner, you will realize the truth.  That’s is the essence of Natural Health Science.   

Anemia is caused by various factors - loss of blood due to excessive menstruation in women, injury, bleeding piles etc. and also, as mentioned already, due to inadequate quantity of iron that should receive the body through our food.  In severe cases, a dark lining below the eyes will be visible with wrinkles on the face and the patient will be very weak with a low BP and shallow pulse.  A poor memory, head ache, difficulty in breathing and a dull appearance in total are also associated with the problems. (Once, I personally witnessed when a gentleman opined about somebody who left the place after meeting him that he [the visitor] came there as if from a “graveyard”! So, an anemic person here is considered as a living ‘corpse’.)   In children of the very poor families, malnutrition could cause the condition.  I recollect a cartoon appeared in a magazine some time back.  That was of a mother taking her child to the doctor.  The doctor, at the first sight advises the mother that her child is all right and there is no need of medicines to be given but vegetables, fruits and milk would clear the problems!   In fact, I felt, it was not a cartoon or fiction but a fact that is experienced by us in our life.    

In some places – especially thickly populated and polluted areas, where the vegetables etc. are available in a contaminated state, it is seen that worms cause anaemia.  Hence, a hygienic background is to be created and a thorough cleaning of the items prior to cooking, preferably in running water has a significant role to overcome this problem.   

Oxygen is an essential requirement to our body.  It can be simply attained by doing “Pranayama” (Nadishodana, Ujjayi etc.) daily for just about a ten minutes time!   Also, along with a walking exercise, some of the selected Yogasanas viz. Shirshasana, Sarvangasana, Shavasana etc. for about 15 – 20 minutes daily are advised as part of the exercises required.

Instead of taking tonics viz. vitamins and iron preparations, one should concentrate in his/her food habits i.e. to take leafy and green vegetables and also fruits – particularly spinach, cabbage, beats, carrots, tomatoes, oranges, dates, pomegranates etc.  The treatment with tonics may give relief and improve the situation but it is not meant for a permanent cure.  A cure is only possible when the vital force that was disappeared from the body returns to refill the vacuum created by the same before.  Is it possible?  Of course, by adopting natural methods and also by making the food as “medicines” as already mentioned.    It is said that iron can be found abundantly in red meat, liver and eggs also.  Nevertheless, it will be better to remember always that red meat takes hours together for digestion.    Fruit juices and dry fruits are definitely in line with the requirements.   Brinjal (without adding spice) helps to cure anemia.   Milk and milk products should also be an essential part of the food habits.  There is a common belief that vegetarians are at risk of developing anaemia.  But, when spinach etc. leafy vegetables that are rich in iron are taken, I feel, that this is immaterial.  In fact, vegetarianism is self-sufficient for a healthy living provided we take little care to include leafy, green vegetables and fruits of different range in our food.

Constipation, if present, is to be attended by avoiding the food items that constipate, by taking enough quantity of water etc.  In most of the cases of anemia, constipation could be the obstacle.  It happens due to intake of refined foods and the food items that constipate.  The bran of wheat is essential to be included in our food but unfortunately most of the people use it after sieving.  Occasional enema will help to remove the constipation and it is not advisable to have medicines that are available in the market aplenty for this purpose.  I suggest you to go through my article, “Complete Freedom From Constipation” that was published a couple of months back in the Nisargopachar Varta.

The patient should try to be cheerful always.  In this connection, I suggest to do “haasyasana” (to forget all the worries for some time and laugh openly raising the hands).  The body and mind are always connected with each other and imbalance of the mind will affect the body as well.  Tell in mind that “I am not anemic, but the one with hot and young blood flowing in my body to keep me healthy.”    Also, to get sufficient hours of sleep as well is important.   Taking bath both in the mornings and evenings with a thorough massage to the body by hand/towel will enhance the blood circulation. 

Remember, health is in your mind and in the body and extremities in order to have positive thoughts and actions that enable everybody to lead a happy, healthy and wealthy life.   Yes, there lies the beauty of life.  Naturopathy, the Natural Health Science is a friend of everybody who wants to be in line with the nature and at the same time is not a foe also of the medicines that are required but without harming the body and mind!

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PS:  This article was published by Nisargopachar Varta - official journal of AYUSH, Min. of Health (India).