Find your Ayurveda Constitution type in just 5 easy Questions
Search

Popular

Nasal Crust

by Leave a Comment

What is Nasal Crust?

The nasal crust is a medical condition that occurs when there is an excess build-up of mucus due to irregular mucus production. The mucus turns so thick that it doesn’t get removed normally. There can be many instances to trigger this condition. It can be caused due to some allergens such as pollen, dust, cat hair, dog hair, etc. or it can also be caused by cold temperature. There are various treatments for this condition and Ayurveda has some great remedies to get rid of it.

What are the Symptoms of Nasal Crust?

There are some typical symptoms that people with Nasal crust experience. You may observe a bump inside your nostril which mostly looks like a pimple. Also, there can be small bumps around the hair follicles inside your nostril. People may experience redness and swelling inside and outside of the nostril. They might suffer from aching and soreness in your nose. And of course, you will develop crusting in and around your nostril.

What are the Causes of Nasal Crust?

There are various causes for nasal crusts. However, some of the most common causes are discussed below,
  • Nasal crusts can be caused by inflammation from allergies like dust, pollen, cat or dog hair, etc.
  • Another most common cause is environmental dryness which may dry up the mucous tissues and nasal passage. This leads to the overproduction of mucus which becomes thick due to the dryness and creates nasal crusts.
  • Some diseases such as HIV, Herpes, Sinusitis, nasal cancer may cause this condition as well.
  • It is seen that in very rare cases, nasal crusts are caused by some trauma. Protracted use of nasal sprays can also trigger this condition.

When to see a Doctor?

  • Consulting a doctor for this condition depends on a few factors. In some cases, this condition can be treated by some home remedies and over-the-counter medicines. But there are instances when the condition is severe and needs medical intervention.
  • In case you are suffering from symptoms for more than 10 days, you cannot delay further and need to discuss with the doctor.
  • Fever with nasal crusts needs to be checked by a professional. So do not avoid the condition if it is accompanied by moderate to high fever.
  • There is a chance that your nasal discharge is yellow or green in color and you are also suffering from sinus pain. This may be a bacterial infection and needs to be treated immediately.
  • After a head injury, if you have a nasal crust and you notice blood in your nasal discharge, this may be serious, and you need to rush to the nearby hospital or clinic to get it checked.

Lifestyle Prevention of Nasal Crust

  • The prevention of Nasal crust is very much possible just by following some preventive measures.
  • The most important thing is to keep your nasal passage moist. As soon as you notice any dryness start applying petroleum gel or saline sprays.
  • Inhaling steam frequently is a great process to get rid of nasal crusts.
  • If your nasal crust is causing an allergy, then you can start taking some medicines which will help you prevent nasal crusts.

Common Ayurvedic Remedies for Nasal Crust

Some great Ayurvedic remedies can help you prevent and cure the condition.
  • Ayurvedic Steam: The easiest process is to inhale steam. Add the same quantity of ginger, ajwain, and turmeric in a bowl of water and boil it together. When it’s boiling hot then take the steam. Don’t forget to cover your head with a towel while inhaling the steam. Be careful steam is very hot so gradually inhale steam and take care not to burn yourself.
  • Amalaki: Amalaki can be a great source of Vitamin C so add one tsp of amalaki in hot water and sip it in at bedtime. Please remember, it cannot be taken alongside triphala, So please avoid this if you are taking triphala at night.
  • Sitopaladi churna: Mix 1 tsp of this churna with 1 tsp of honey and 1 tsp of ghee and take it.
Curative Ayurvedic Herbs:
Amla | Sitopaladi Churna | Triphala | Brahmi
Preventative Ayurvedic Herbs:
Not Known

Muscle Cramps and Spasms

by Leave a Comment

What are Muscle Cramps and Spasms?

Muscle cramps are the condition that generally occurs during any physical activity that puts stress on the muscles of any part of the body. Some instances where muscle cramps are conducive are activities like running, cycling, playing many sports, or just standing for too long. The cause of this condition can be several, but it mainly triggers when there is a low or excess supply of blood in the muscles. Few cramps like “writer’s cramp” the muscle spasm can be triggered by the low level of calcium in your diet.

What are the Symptoms of Muscle Cramps and Spasms?

  • The symptoms of muscle cramps are very common. Usually, people who have muscle cramps experience the following symptoms.
  • Pain is the most common symptom of this condition. A person should experience moderate to high pain in the affected muscles.
  • The muscles can also become weak, and you may feel numbness or a pin and needles sensation in the skin of that muscle.
  • In some severe cases, a person may become temporarily paralysed since the movement of the muscle will be restricted due to the injury.

What are the Causes of Muscle Cramps and Spasms?

The causes of muscle cramps are widespread. Some of the most common causes are as follows,
  • Dehydration due to lack of water intake is one of the most common causes of muscle cramps. Particularly when you are working out in the heat and sweating a lot that causes reduction of electrolytes and may lead to muscle spasm.
  • Muscle fatigue due to too much working out can also be a major cause of this condition. So giving your muscles enough rest is important.
  • Stress can also lead to this condition.
  • Restricted blood supply or excessive blood supply to the muscle also can cause muscle cramps and spasms.

When to see a Doctor?

A muscle spasm or cramps are usually not a cause for concern. This is a very normal condition, especially for sportsmen and athletes. However, there are some instances when they might occur due to some underlying condition, for example, multiple sclerosis, thyroid disease, or liver cirrhosis. So getting it checked by a doctor if you experience muscle cramps frequently and without heavy exercise may be important.

Lifestyle Prevention of Muscle Cramps and Spasms

  • Preventing muscle cramps is possible by following some simple preventive measures. Since the causes of muscle cramps are known, the prevention is also very straightforward.
  • As we all know the muscle cramps are mostly caused by dehydration, drinking plenty of water is important. If you have a tendency to get leg cramps at night, stretch prior to bedtime
  • Also warming up and stretching is very important before any strenuous activity which involves your muscles being stressed up.
  • Avoid over-exercise and try to give enough rest to your muscles.
  • Try to eat foods that are high in some nutrients, including potassium, sodium, and magnesium. This may help neutralize muscle cramps.

Common Ayurvedic Remedies for Muscle Cramps and Spasms

There are some Ayurvedic therapies using some herbs that are really effective on muscle cramps. Also some Ayurvedic oil massage is time tested to treat muscle cramp faster. Herbs such as Ginger, Ashwagandha, Amla, Nirgundi, etc are very useful for this condition.
  • Ginger: Drinking dry ginger powder with honey is very effective for muscle cramps. Just add two tsp of ginger powder in a glass of hot water and then add a little bit of honey then drink it.
  • Snehana (Oil Therapy): This is an external therapy which uses oil massage to heal the cramp. Ashwgandha infused oil is used to massage the sore muscles to loosen the knots and lessen bruising.
  • Nirgundi (Five-Leaved Chaste Tree): Liquify one tsp of nirgundi powder or paste formulations in the water alongside some jaggery and drink this mixture 1 time every day.
Curative Ayurvedic Herbs:
Ginger | Amla | Ashwagandha | Nirgundi
Preventative Ayurvedic Herbs:
Not Known

Morning Sickness (Hyperemesis gravidarum)

by Leave a Comment

What is Morning Sickness?

Morning sickness is a pregnancy-related condition that occurs when a pregnant woman suffers from nausea and vomiting. Even though it is called morning sickness; it can happen any time of the day. This is more usual during the first trimester of the pregnancy but there are some cases where it could last throughout the pregnancy.

What are the Symptoms of Morning Sickness?

Usually, a pregnant woman with morning sickness suffers from nausea and vomiting and it is very common during the first trimester of pregnancy and generally starts by week nine after conceiving. The symptoms may be triggered by some factors, such as certain smells, heat, spicy foods, or maybe there won’t be any triggers.

What are the Causes of Morning Sickness?

  • The most common cause of this condition is increased hormone levels during the first trimester. It also may be caused by reduced blood sugar levels. However, other causes may also trigger this condition and the severity varies among women.
  • Those who have double or triple fetuses tend to experience morning sickness more often than those with single fetuses.
  • Excessive fatigue during pregnancy may also cause this condition.
  • Emotional stress can be another cause that triggers morning sickness.
  • Frequent traveling can be a cause of morning sickness as well.

When to see a Doctor?

  • In most cases, Morning Sickness is a minor medical condition that doesn’t need any medical intervention and can be treated with over-the-counter medications. However, there may be instances when a pregnant woman may experience more severe symptoms along with morning sickness. In that case, visiting a doctor is very important.
  • In case you are unable to keep the food down, it might be a cause for concern and immediate medical intervention is needed. Weight loss of more than 2 pounds is not normal and that needs to be diagnosed by the doctor. If you experience moderate to high fever along with morning sickness, then make an appointment with a doctor. Nausea and vomiting are normal but the dizziness and lightheadedness are not very usual and if you experience that, do not delay in seeing your doctor. In case you notice any blood in your vomit, then it must be something seriously wrong. Any pain in the abdominal region needs to be addressed immediately.

Lifestyle Prevention of Morning Sickness

  • It’s natural to experience morning sickness during pregnancy so nothing can stop you from getting that. However, by taking some preventive measures you can reduce the effect of morning sickness.
  • Drinking plenty of water is a very important safety measure and that reduces the frequency of Morning Sickness. Also drinking water particularly before and after the meal will be more effective. Taking enough rest is very important to keep yourself healthy during pregnancy.
  • Use room fresheners to remove the odor which makes you nauseous. Eating small meals and avoiding spicy and fatty food is important to prevent this condition. Try to eat clean and less in quantity.
  • Do not smoke or take vitamins at night.

Common Ayurvedic Remedies for Morning Sickness

During pregnancy you need to be extra cautious about taking any medications. So Ayurvedic remedies are best to treat any condition in a pregnant woman. There are some herbs and spices which help you with the Morning sickness symptoms. Herbs and spices such as, Ginger, Mint, Cardamom, Cumin, Chamomile, Cinnamon are very effective for this condition.
  • Cardamom: This is a very useful spice for treating nausea. Just roast and grind cardamom seeds and take a small pinch for the whole day whenever feeling nauseous will surely help.
  • Cumin: Cumin can also be a very effective spice in order to deal with vomiting and nausea. Drinking half a teaspoon of Cumin powder with one glass of hot water is a great home remedy to get rid of morning sickness.
  • Chamomile Tea: Chamomile tea is very useful for your digestive system and hence it helps in easing nausea and vomiting. To make this tea, soak a tablespoon of dried Chamomile in one glass of warm water for about 10 minutes and then drink.
Curative Ayurvedic Herbs:
Ginger | Mint | Cardamom | Cumin | Chamomile | Cinnamon
Preventative Ayurvedic Herbs:
Not Known

Rose Mint tea

by Leave a Comment

This tea will give you a healing pause from your hot, busy, and intense life. With the cooling and soothing properties of rose and digestive properties of mint this tea is a great herbal medicine to balance summer heat.

Best for Vata and Pitta.

Prep Time: 5 Minutes
Total Time: 15 Minutes
Serves: Makes 2 Persons

Ingredients

  • 2 cups water
  • 5 or 6 mint leaves
  • 2 tablespoons rose water
  • Few dried rose petals

Method

  1. Boil water in a saucepan.
  2. Add rose petals, cover, and let it simmer for 3 minutes over low flame.
  3. Turn off, add mint leaves and rose water, and let it sit for 5 minutes.
  4. Strain it into a cup and enjoy.

Serving Suggestions

Add cool coconut milk for an ayurvedic iced tea version

Check out the Ayurvedic benefits of ingredients used in this recipe

Mint

Ayurvedic Energy Drink

by Leave a Comment

In Ayurveda, ojas is the essence of vitality and immunity. This energy drink includes foods like dates, raisins, and milk to help nourish your ojas and give a boost of energy to keep you going. If taken with breakfast it vitalizes the nervous system and provides satiety.
Good for vata and pitta.

Prep Time: 5 Mins plus 8 hours to soak
Total Time:  10 Minutes
Serves: 2 persons

Ingredients

  • 5 fresh deseeded dates
  • 5 almonds
  • 2 cups of Cow’s milk
  • ½ cup water
  • ½ t cinnamon powder
  • ½ t cardamom powder
  • 1/4 t turmeric powder
  • A pinch of ginger powder

Method

  1. Soak the almonds overnight in water and soak the dates overnight in milk in the refrigerator.
  2. Blend almonds, milk, dates, and water until fully blended.
  3. Pour this mixture into a saucepan and add cinnamon, cardamom, nutmeg, pepper, turmeric.
  4. Bring it to a gentle boil, pour into cups, and sip warm. Filter if needed.

Note

For quick and easy tonic replace almonds with 1 cup of almond milk and to make it dairy-free add 2 cups of almond milk instead.
You can also add ½ tsp of unsweetened chocolate powder and use this drink as a recovery drink after exercise
If consumed at night, you can choose to add freshly ground Nutmeg for a calming deep sleep.

Check out the Ayurvedic benefits of ingredients used in this recipe

Cinnamon | Cardamom | Ginger | Nutmeg | Pepper | Turmeric

Ginger, Lemon and Honey Tea

by Leave a Comment

This tea is comforting as well as medicinal. It keeps the immune system strong and is a perfect warm drink for spring and winter and in times of cold, it is the perfect drink to sip on. It also helps in preventing acidity and heartburn and is ideal in situations like sleep deprivation, over-eating or travel.
Good for Kapha dosha. For Vata, substitute jaggery or coconut sugar for honey.

Prep Time: 5 Minutes
Total Time:  20 Minutes
Serves: 2 person

Ingredients

  • 1 t chopped ginger
  • 4 cups of water
  • 1 T of lemon juice
  • ½ T of honey

Method

  1. Boil the chopped ginger in water for 10 minutes over low flame with the lid closed.
  2. Turn off the heat and let it sit for 5 minutes.
  3. Once it cools down, add lemon juice and strain it into a cup.
  4. Add honey and enjoy.

Serving suggestions

If you have a pitta composition or it’s summer, replace fresh ginger with ginger powder as it is less hot. You might also consider adding holy basil leaves or mint leaves to this tea, especially if suffering from a cold and cough.

Check out the Ayurvedic benefits of ingredients used in this recipe

Ginger | Holy Basil | Mint