AYURVEDA THE OLDEST HERBAL REMEDIES

Ayurveda is an ancient holistic system of medicine and natural healing from India, and is the oldest known form of healthcare in the world.

We can find historical evidence of Ayurveda in the ancient books of wisdom known as the Vedas, written over 6,000 years ago, of which only a small portion is available to us from that time.

Tibetan medicine and traditional Chinese medicine both have their roots in Ayurveda. Early Greek medicine also embraced many concepts originally described in the classical Ayurvedic medical texts. Ayurveda has been used and practiced throughout the subcontinent, Indonesia and many other countries in the surrounding region for thousands of years, although it was often suppressed during various occupations in those areas.

Recently the western world, particularly Europe and the United States, has become increasingly fascinated with and interested in Ayurvedic medicine.

The Science of Life

The world Ayurveda roughly translates as "The Science of Life." It is merger of two Sanskrit words: 'Ayu' (the root of ayur & ayus ) which means 'life,' and 'Veda' which means a combination of 'science, knowledge and wisdom.'According to Ayurveda, first noted by the ancient Ayurvedic scholar Charaka: human life is the combination of mind, body, senses and soul.Ayurveda sees that the senses and the mind work in conjunction with one another and greatly influence our physiology.Ayurveda is not just a medical system. It sees human beings as an integral part of nature. It believes that human beings should live in harmony with nature just as the animals and plants do, and utilize the laws of nature to create health and balance within. It adheres to this focus in guiding human beings to maintain health by using the inherent principles of nature to bring an individual back into equilibrium with his or her true self.The ancient texts reveal that Ayurveda was also originally used as a regime to remove obstacles on one's path to Self-Realization. At some point the medical aspects began to take priority over the spiritual forms of healing.Today, these spiritual aspects of Ayurveda have taken a back seat to the medical focus. As Ayurveda becomes more commercially viable, the spiritual aspects may continue to lose ground. Yet there are a growing number of practitioners who employ these spiritual therapies and find better results than limiting their approach only to the medical, physical realm.Understanding AyurvedaAyurvedic wisdom offers life-enhancing practices as well as herbal medicinal preparations for the health and well being of the whole human being: body, mind, and soul. It is much more than just a system to treat symptoms or physical illness.Ayurveda describes three fundamental energies that govern our health and well being, and are seen both in our internal and external environments. Called 'doshas' these three energies are known as:Vata (Air/Wind)Pitta (Fire/Sun)Kapha (Earth & Water)Ayurveda sees these primary forces in a unique combination in every individual, and as relating to the characteristics of our mind and body. Every individual has a unique proportion of these three forces that shapes our nature.These doshas also have the characteristic of being: movement (Vata), transformation (Pitta) and structure (Kapha). We are all made up of unique proportions of Vata, Pitta and Kapha. The ratios of the doshas vary in each individual. Because of this, Ayurveda sees each person as a special mixture that accounts for our diversity.Ayurveda gives us a model to look at each individual as a unique makeup of the three doshas (and sub-doshas), and thereby design treatment protocols that specifically address a person's health challenges.Herbs are often recommended to supplement the nutritional requirements on a regular basis to build and maintain a healthy physiology. As some of the Ayurvedic herbs are now recognized to be the most potent and powerful adaptogens on the planet -- and since stress is now known to be a significant factor in over 80 percent of all illnesses -- these herbs are essential in any health program designed to promote and maintain a healthy human body.When any of the doshas become aggravated, thereby upsetting the natural harmony for the individual, Ayurveda suggests specific lifestyle and nutritional guidelines as well as specific medicinal herbs to assist the individual in reducing and rebalancing the dosha that has become excessive or out of balance.Ayurveda goes into great detail to describe the medicinal attributes of many herbs and their correct usage to compliment and hasten the healing process, and to strengthen the body's organs and systems.

Ayurvedic Herbs: Controversy Over Pharma Attempts at Patents2Growing awareness in the west of the efficacy of Ayurvedic herbs and formulations has led to controversy and battles with the western pharmaceutical companies trying to patent these herbs.3Only recently discovered in the west, Ayurvedic herbs such as Neem, Ashwagandha, Tulsi, Shatavari, Turmeric, Amalaki and Brahmi as well as traditional preparations such as Triphala and Trikatu have long been known to have significant medicinal value without adverse side effects.Several pharmaceutical companies and academic institutions in the west have come into conflict with Indian academic institutions and traditional Ayurvedic practitioners over the intellectual property rights of herbal products researched by the western agencies.The Ayurvedic practitioners have known about the efficacy of such products for centuries, and so contend that they carry precedence with regards to patent rights on such products.Free Trade Industrial Agriculture Rules Threaten the World's FarmersPer the World Trade Organization Trade Related Intellectual Property Rights Agreement:4

"Indian farmers, traditional practitioners, and traders will lose their market share in local, national and global markets. For example, recently the U.S. government granted a patent for the anti-diabetic properties of karela, jamun, and brinjal to two non-resident Indians, Onkar S.Tomer and Kripanath Borah, and their colleague Peter Gloniski. Yet the use of these substances for control of diabetes is everyday knowledge and practice in India. Their medical use is documented in authoritative treatises such as Wealth of India, the Compendium of Indian Medicinal Plants and the Treatise on Indian Medicinal Plants.

If there were only one or two cases of such false claims to invention on the basis of biopiracy, they could be called an error. However, biopiracy is an epidemic.Neem, haldi, pepper, harar, bahera, amla, mustard, basmati, ginger, castor, jaramla, amaltas and new karela and jamun have all been patented. The problem is not, as was made out to be in the case of turmeric, an error made by a patent clerk. The problem is deep and systemic. And it calls for a systemic change, not case-by-case challenges. The potential costs of biopiracy to the Third World poor are very high since two-thirds of the people in the South depend on free access to biodiversity for their livelihoods and needs. Seventy percent of seed in India is saved or shared farmers' seed; 70 percent of healing is based on indigenous medicine using local plants."

Obtaining Potent, Efficacious, Organic (Heavy-Metal Free) Ayurvedic HerbsIt has been mostly individual practitioners who procure, grow, dry and prepare these herbs and preparations in an effective, potent manner, whereas commercially available Ayurvedic products have been of substandard quality.It is only recently that a few companies have started producing high quality organic Ayurvedic herbal products.

Ayurveda Moving West

Clinical practice, research and education in Ayurvedic medicine remain the most authentic in India. However, attempts are being made by westerners to export the essence of Ayurveda to complement their own medical systems, where the pharmaceutical industry and allopathic medicine predominates.

As a result of regulations in medical practice in Europe and America, the most commonly practiced Ayurvedic treatments in the west are massage, dietary counseling and herbal advice.

The NAMA (National Ayurvedic Medical Association-USA) is one of several groups seeking to set standards for Ayurveda in the west.

There are 26 schools in the US and dozens in Europe which are teaching 500+ hour courses for proficiency at Ayurvedic Health Practitioners, certified but not licensed.

In the United States, the NIH NCCAM expends some of its $123 million budget on Ayurvedic medicine research. In addition, the National Institute of Ayurvedic Medicine, established by Dr. Scott Gerson, is an example of a research institute that has carried out research into Ayurvedic practices.

Dr. Gerson has published part of his work on the antifungal activities of certain Ayurvedic plants in medical journals. Other notable researchers on ayurveda in the West include Dr. Bala Manyam, the Maharishi Ayurveda group in Fairfield, Iowa, and Dr. Mano Venkatraman at the University of Washington, Seattle.

Ayurveda is a Recognized Medicine

Ayurvedic practitioners are regularly appointed as an "Honorary Ayurvedic Physician" to the President of India. Every year on the occasion of Dhanvantari Jayanti, a prestigious Dhanvantari Award is conferred on a famous personality of medicine, including a doctor of Ayurveda.

Ayurveda is a statutory, recognized medical system of health care like other medical systems existing in India. Ayurvedic medicines have to be approved, registered and licensed by the Central Council of Indian Medicine (CCIM), which governs and recommends policies for the research and development of the system.

In India, practitioners in Ayurveda undergo five and a half years of training, including one year of internship in select Ayurveda medical schools, where they earn the professional doctorate degree of Bachelor of Ayurvedic Medicine and Surgery.

SANDALWOOD / SANTALUM PANICULATUM / CHANDAN

Sandalwood / Santalum Paniculatum or Chandan is the name of a class of woods from trees in the genus Santalum. The woods are heavy, yellow, and fine-grained, and unlike many other aromatic woods, they retain their fragrance for decades. Sandalwood oil is extracted from the woods for use. Both the wood and the oil produce a distinctive fragrance that has been highly valued for centuries. Consequently, the slow-growing trees have been overharvested in many areas.sandalwood or chandan.Sandalwood is a boon to your skin.

Beauty benefits of sandalwood.

All these beauty uses of sandal/chandan are very safe and effective on the skin. Read on to know how to use sandalwood powder in your beauty applications

Skin problems like pimples, dark spots, after marks, smuts, dark circles and many such are quite common among teenagers. There are very few young guys and girls who don’t get these problems. For the ones who are suffering from these skin problems can make best use of Sandalwood Remedies for Skin. Sandalwood remedy is one of the simple steps to reduce acne. These remedies will give you a clear and healthy skin. This article provides you with various sandalwood remedies for skin and its additional benefits.

Sandalwood is an anti-biotic element that can make your skin, free from any kind of virus and bacteria. By making use of these natural sandalwood remedies for skin regularly, relieves you from the problem of ulceration. It also cleans your skin from the poke-marks and the after marks. This coat not only scrapes your skin but also softens it by moisturising.

Here we give you a few sandalwood remedies for skin.

Make paste by mixing 1 tbsp of sandalwood powder with ½ tbsp. of turmeric powder. Apply a coat of this paste on your face and keep for about 20 minutes. By doing this, you can reduce your pimples and also you can feel your skin happy.

Take sandalwood powder and turmeric powder in equal quantity and make paste in milk. Add a pinch of camphor powder to it. Massage your face with the paste and leave it for the night. It not only gives you a cool feeling but also cleans away the skin marks.

Take equal measures of sandalwood powder, turmeric powder and lemon juice to make paste and apply it on your face. Rinse cool water after 30 minutes. It would make your skin not just soft but also marks free.

Make paste of sandalwood powder and rose water and apply it on your face. Wash after 15 minutes. For the ones with oily skin, this paste prevents pimples and for others it cleanses your pores.

Mix sandalwood powder and black chickpea powder in equal quantity either with milk or rose water; apply the paste on your face and leave for night. By doing this for a week you can say good bye to your pimples forever.

Additional benefits of Sandalwood:

Sandalwood is being used for centuries now. Mostly, it is used in Ayurveda. It relives you from any kind of cuts or wounds or ulcerates and improvises your skin. As it is a natural substance, routine use of sandalwood will not show any side effects.

Apart from the ones mentioned above, sandalwood remedies for skin has many more assets. Here we go with few additional benefits of using this sandalwood.

Sandalwood has anti-bacterial trait and hence it is used as an herbal antiseptic. Hence, it is used for curing bruises, scotches and also burns.

If any part of your skin gives you itching or burning sensation, make paste of sandalwood powder, turmeric powder and lemon juice and apply it on the affected area. It reduces not only the itch, but also the ruddiness caused due to it.

Sandalwood oil is proved effective in moisturising dry skin.

Swelling and itch caused by an insect bite can also be reduced by applying a paste of sandalwood powder.

Sandalwood Oil:

Sandalwood oil is considered to be one of the best and natural sandalwood remedies for skin. This oil reduces tan on your skin. Take 5 tbsp’s of coconut oil, 2 tbsp’s of almond oil and 4 tbsp’s of sandalwood powder and form a paste. Apply this oil on the tanned part of your skin for 10 days. You can see the tan fade off.

If you sweat a lot, then apply the paste of sandalwood powder on your body for 15 days before taking bath. It not only reduces the sweat but also gives your body a wonderful fragrance. You can also use sandalwood for preparing home made face packs for healthy skin.

Not just these, the use of sandalwood in any form is beneficial, be it oil or soap. Sandalwood balances the mechanism of your body, improves your digestion process, respiratory process and strengthens your nervous system.

ALOE VERA / ALOE BARBADENSIS / GWAR PATHA / GRITH KUMARI ( घृत कुमारी )

Aloe vera is a succulent plant species. The species is frequently cited as being used in herbal medicine since the beginning of the first century AD. Extracts from A. vera are widely used in the cosmetics and alternative medicine industries, being marketed as variously having rejuvenating, healing, or soothing properties. There is, however, little scientific evidence of the effectiveness or safety of Aloe vera extracts for either cosmetic or medicinal purposes, and what positive evidence is available is frequently contradicted by other studies.

Aloe Vera is highly regarded as a miracle or wonder plant for its healing properties. You must have seen this ornamental plant in terrace gardens, but didn’t realize its worth. The various healing properties make aloe vera a favourite choice among organic and fitness enthusiasts. This magical plant is used for the treatment of various kinds of diseases and illness.

Aloe Vera is respected for its potential healing properties by those who believe in naturopathy. Aloe vera helps to prevent cancer by destroying any free radicals in the body that can lead to abnormal growth of cells or tumors in the body. Those who undergo regular radiopathy treatments can protect their body from the side effects of radiation by drinking aloe juice and applying aloe gel to the affected area to cure radiation burns. Aloe gel has a very soothing effect on the skin. It cures skin dermatitis, gives you voluminous hair and a fit body. So make aloe vera your daily companion to get a holistic health care at the comfort of your home. You don’t need to rely on harsh chemicals when you have a natural option to stay fit and look glamorous always.

Hope now you are going to make aloe vera a part of your daily life. Get hold of an aloe vera plant today!

Aloe is also an excellent treatment for skin conditions such as burns and eczema. It is often reported that burns can be healed remarkably quickly and the pain reduced very quickly with topical application of Aloe Vera to the burn area. As well as applying topically, Aloe can also be taken internally so it is just as useful for internal epithelial tissue as it is for the skin. For example, mouth and stomach ulcers, nasal and sinuses, bowels, lungs and genital tracts. Aloe works on membranes and surfaces.

Aloe also seems to be excellent at regulating the immune system (an immunomodulator). This means it can both stimulate the immune response for those with weakened immune systems either from exisiting conditions or post-illness fatigue. It can also calm the immune response, such as for Hayfever where less immune reaction is beneficial.

It is often reported Aloe Vera is one of the only known natural vegetarian sources of Vitamin B12, however it appears there are only trace amounts of B12 at best in Aloe Vera. What DOES seem to be the case is that taking Aloe vera at the same time as a Vitamin B12 supplement increases the absorption and bio-availability of the B12 to the body. The B vitamins range, along with Vitamin C, are all water soluble, whereas the rest of the vitamins are fat soluble. Aloe vera seems quite special in that it appears to also enhance the absorption of Vitamin E (fat soluble) as well as Vitamin B12, which suggests it can help absorp the full range of fat and water soluble vitamins. It would therefore be a great addition to your daily regime as it may help adults, children, and even pets receive more value from their foods and supplements.

Over 200 worldwide scientific research papers have been published on the effects. The three main categories of research include anti-inflammatory, anti- bacterial, and anti-viral actions of the plant. The juice is said to soothe digestive tract irritations such as colitis, ulcers and irritable bowel syndrome. It's ability to encourage the release of pepsin (a gastric juice enzyme necessary for digestion) when the stomach is full is a possible reason for its ulcer-healing effects  In one study, oral use for six months helped mitigate asthma symptoms in almost half of the participants. Eleven of twenty-seven patients studied who drank Aloe reported feeling better at the end of the study. Researchers think that results might be due to stimulation of the immune system, as well as naturally occurring anti-inflammatory agents in the plant.

Nutritional Value:

Aloe vera consist as much as 75 nutrients, 20 minerals, 12 vitamins, 18 amino acids and 200 active enzymes. Aloe vera contains Vitamin A, B1, B2, B6 and B12, Vitamin C and E, folic acid and Niacin. Minerals found in aloe vera include copper, iron, sodium, calcium, zinc, potassium, chromium, magnesium and manganese. The nutrients naturally present in aloe vera makes it a potential herbal product that can be safely used both internally and externally. This exotic plant contains other beneficial compounds like polysaccharides, mannans, anthraquinones and lectins. The presence of these nutrients makes it possible to use aloe vera for variety of therapeutic purposes. Aloe vera not only cures the skin, health and hair problems, it so soothing that it also helps you to relax. Let’s have a look at various aloe vera uses and benefits.

Aloe vera contains protein, calcium, magnesium, zinc, vitamins A and E and is naturally rich in:

Vitamin C which helps maintain tone of blood vessels and promotes good circulation and is essential to the health of the adrenal gland which supports our body in times of stress.

Amino acids which are chains of atoms constructing protein in our body.

Enzymes, which are the life-principle in every live, organic atom and molecule of natural raw food, rejuvenate aged tissues and promote healthy skin.

Germanium which is a mineral that some health authorities claim therapeutic benefits for: immunodeficiency, pain, cardiac disorders, circulatory disturbances and eye problems.

The juice is said to be one of the finest body cleansers, cleaning morbid matter from the stomach, liver, kidneys, spleen, bladder, and is considered the finest, known colon cleanser. Studies have shown that it is healing and soothing in the relief of indigestion, stomach distress and ulcers. People claim relief from arthritis, bladder and kidney infections; leg cramps, constipation, hemorrhoids, insomnia, and for vaginitis, it is said to be an excellent vaginal douche. An excellent internal tonic for energy and well being Aloe juice may add greatly to the strength of the food fed, digestive tract, skin, and overall good health and happiness.

It is also used to ease heartburn, ulcers, diverticular disorders, and other types of digestive upset. It is used as an anti-inflammatory and may be taken internally as a remedy for certain digestive complaints. European folk medicine calls for using the juice to relieve heartburn and ulcers. Preliminary research has shown promising results. Clinical trials in Japan indicate that certain compounds in the herb reduce the secretion of stomach juices and the formation of lesions.

Animal studies and anecdotal reports claim that drinking the juice or taking it as a tablet or capsule can reduce swelling and inflammation in arthritic joints. Drinking the juice may also help those asthmatic patients who are not dependent on cortico-steroids.

Health Benefits Of Aloe Vera:

1. Aids Digestion and Treats Intestinal Issues:

Aloe vera when taken internally aids in digestion and effectively cleanses the digestive system. Aloe vera works as a laxative which makes it easier for the food particles to pass through the intestine. Thus aloe vera helps those who suffer severe constipation problems.Drinking aloe vera juice regularly helps to detoxify the body which in turns improves daily bowel movements. It alleviates acidity, inflammation and intestinal ulcers. Aloe vera has a soothing effect on the stomach walls and relieves stomach ache.Aloe vera also helps to cure Crohn’s disease and peptic ulcers.

2. Boosts Immune Power:

Aloe Vera is full of antioxidants, also known as natural immunity enhancers, which help to fight free radicals in the body. Free radicals cause several diseases and ailments which speeds up the ageing process. Consuming aloe vera juice regularly boosts immune system and helps you to stay young and fit.

3. Treats Inflammation, Wounds and Burns:

Inflammation is the body’s first reaction to damage. The damage can be caused by physical means or due to chemical reactions. Aloe vera has been used in traditional medicine and general home remedies in the recent times to cure cuts, wounds, burns, abrasions, inflammations and skin breakage.

Aloe vera contains plant steroids which help in reducing inflammation naturally. So aloe vera is used in orthodox or traditional medicine as steroidal drugs. Aloe vera also contains salicylic acid and its salts salicylates; it helps to curb inflammation by inhibiting the production of hormones like prostaglandins. Salicylic acid is like aspirin and has the potential of reducing inflammation by destroying the bacteria that cause inflammation.

You can use aloe vera to reduce inflammation without the fear of side effects. Drinking aloe vera juice regularly eases swollen and painful joints and reduces the stiffness of bones. It is excellent for treating scars, burns and cuts. It also soothes wound or cuts and fights bacteria that occur due to wounds. The cooling effect of the plant helps to regenerate new cells and helps in rebuilding the damaged tissue.

4. Good for Female Reproductive System:

Aloe vera tonic is wonderful for the female reproductive system. It helps to rejuvenate the uterus. It is very beneficial to drink aloe vera juice if you are experiencing painful menstrual cycle.

5. Treats Respiratory Disorders:

This versatile plant is also useful for treating respiratory disorders and is particularly useful for those who get frequent attacks of cold, flu, bronchitis herpes, running nose and other respiratory disorders.Aloe vera contains Vitamin C which helps to prevent colds, cough and flu.

6. Treats Diabetes:

The dried gel of aloe vera is used to treat diabetes as it helps to lower blood sugar level by decreasing insulin resistance and also lowers the triglyceride levels in the liver and plasma. Aloe vera helps to improve the blood quality naturally by decreasing the levels of cholesterol and triglyceride. Since, aloe vera helps to control cholesterol, triglycerides and blood sugar; it directly helps to prevent cardiovascular disease. Aloe vera keeps the blood fresh and rich in oxygen.

7. Stimulates Metabolism:

Aloe vera juice also increases energy level and helps to maintain a healthy body weight. Drinking aloe vera juice regularly stimulates the metabolism and helps the body to burn calories more quickly. So aloe vera keeps you slim naturally.

8. Oral and Dental Health:

Aloe vera juice also helps in maintaining healthy gums and oral hygiene. Its natural anti-bacterial and anti-microbial actions promote cell growth and healing. Aloe vera gels are also used in a variety of tooth gels which prevent bleeding gums and mouth ulcers. It also provides quick relief to people who experience burning mouth symptoms. Its antifungal properties help greatly in the problem of denture stomatitis, apthous ulcers, cracked and split corners of the mouth.

9. Heals Skin Issues:

The anti-allergic property of aloe vera is useful in the treatment of various skin diseases like eczema, psoriasis, itchy skin and so on. They are helpful in curing blisters, insect bites and other allergic reactions as well.  Aloe Vera face packs are a boon for people who have a sensitive skin type.

10. Offers Healthy Glow:

Drinking aloe vera juice supplies body with essential nutrients which help to produce and maintain healthy skin. Aloe vera helps to remove dead cells and replenishes it with new ones, giving the skin a radiant glow.

11. Treats Acne:

Aloe Vera’s anti-inflammatory property helps to reduce acne greatly. It does not completely cure the acne; however, it reduces inflammation and redness of the skin to a great extent.  It also prevents the outburst of acne and pimples. Its juice or gel can be applied directly on the skin to cure acne. Aloe vera face pack can be prepared by boiling aloe vera leaves in water. Make a paste and add a few drops of honey. Apply it on the face. Leave it for 15 minutes and then rinse off with tap water.

12. Treats Sunburns & Reduces Stretch Marks:

Aloe vera gel contains two hormones, Axim and Gibberellins which have wound healing and anti-inflammatory properties. Aloe vera with its powerful healing capability helps to treat sun burn at the epithelial level of the skin. It acts as a protective shield for the skin and heals the skin quickly. It can also be used as an after shave treatment for its healing properties can treat small cuts caused by shaving. Aloe vera also helps to reduce stretch marks by healing the wounds. This is one of the best benefits of aloe vera for skin.

13. Improves Skin Firmness:

Aloe vera contains a plethora of anti-oxidants like beta carotene, vitamins C and E that improve the natural firmness of skin. Aloe vera helps to keep the skin hydrated and italso improves the skin’s elasticity, therefore minimizing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. Thus it refreshes the skin and makes it vibrant and young looking. So for a young and healthy skin, start using aloe vera gel today.

14. Lightens Skin:

Smooth and glowing skin can be achieved easily by rubbing aloe vera gel on the face. Aloe vera lightens the skin and helps to alleviate sun tanning and hyper pigmentation.

15. Beneficial for Dry Skin:

Aloe vera gel is extremely beneficial for dry skin. Aloe vera is a natural moisturizer because of the moisture content locked in it. This gel keeps the skin hydrated and increases its elasticity. It also provides oxygen to the skin which strengthens the skin tissue and keeps the skin healthy. Moreover, it moisturizes the skin without making the skin greasy so it is perfect for oily skin. Once applied, it releases natural vitamins and enzymes on the skin to produce a deep moisturizing effect that helps to treat and restore its pH balance.

16. Lip Care:

Don’t need to go for store bought lip balms all the time. You can prepare your own lip balm at home with aloe vera gel in seconds. This is a super easy process that can be even done by the kids. All you need to do is to heat a heaped teaspoon of petroleum jelly in a double boiler. After it melts, add half a teaspoon of fresh aloe vera gel and two drops of Vitamin E oil extracted from the capsule. Switch off the stove and blend this mixture well. Pour it in a tube or an old lip balm container when it is in the liquid state. Allow this lip balm to cool and thicken in refrigerator and start using it on your lips. This will cure dry and chapped lips very effectively than any other store bought lip balms.

17. Foot Care:

A homemade nourishing aloe vera foot scrub can give you a peacock feather soft foot. Add two teaspoons of sugar and 2 teaspoons of coarsely powdered rice powder with a scoop of aloe vera gel to make an instant foot scrub. After soaking your feet in warm water for 15 minutes, gently work this scrub out on your feet for 10 minutes to remove the dead skin cells without stripping off moisture. The sugar and rice powder exfoliates the skin to remove dead cells while the aloe vera gels helps in rejuvenating your foot with its calming properties. Follow this every week to achieve soft and beautiful feet!

18. Treats Hair Loss:

Aloe vera for hair loss treatment can be traced back to the ancient Egyptian times. Aloe vera contains enzymes that promote hair growth. The proteolitic enzymes found in aloe vera help to eradicate dead skin cells on the scalp. Aloe Vera’s keratolic action breaks down the sebum and dead scalp cells. Aloe Vera’s alkalizing properties balances the pH level of the scalp and hair which results in further hair growth and retains moisture in the scalp.

19. Treats Itchy and Inflamed Skin:

Aloe vera also helps to eliminate itchy scalp and scalp dryness by its anti-pruritic properties. It also alleviates pruritic ailments like psoriasis and eczema of scalp. Aloe Vera’s enzymatic properties enable it to destroy excessive dead skin cells of the scalp. It helps to reduce the redness, scaling, itching and inflammation of scalp which directly benefits the hair.

20. Treats Dandruff:

Aloe vera is also used in dandruff treatment. The natural enzymes found in aloe vera soothe and moisturize the scalp that helps to eliminate the scalp dryness that causes dandruff. Thus its anti-fungal properties alleviate dandruff problem.  It alleviates the dry and itchy feeling that accompanies dandruff and oiliness. Aloe vera brings a refreshing and cooling sensation to the scalp.

21. Good Conditioner:

Aloe vera is a great conditioning agent that restores the hair’s shine and luster, and leaves the hair silky and smooth. The gel like substance found in aloe vera leaves is similar to keratin in chemical composition. This enables it to penetrate easily along the scalp. The scalp absorbs the benefits of aloe vera up to 7 layers deep and provides deep conditioning to the scalp. The amino acids present in aloe vera add strength and luster to the hair. It also enhances the beauty and suppleness of the hair. It control frizzy hair and does not leave behind any greasy build up.

22. Restores Hair’s Strength and Beauty:

The essential nutrients and vitamins found in aloe vera makes it an indispensible material for shampoos and conditioner. These vitamins and minerals aid in restoring hair’s strength and beauty. When combined with oils like coconut and jojoba oil, aloe vera can make a revitalizing shampoo.

23. Perfect Hair Rinse:

Aloe vera gel is a perfect rinse for oily hair without making the hair brittle.  Mix one part of aloe vera juice with two parts of lemon juice and apply the mixture to the shaft of hair. The acid from lemon strips away excess oil without any adverse effect of chemicals and aloe vera juice prevents dryness of the hair.

24. Repairs Dry and Damaged Hair:

Aloe vera gel also repairs dry and damaged hair in a short span of time. Aloe vera contains a good amount of protein which is necessary for maintaining the good health of the hair. By going through the hair shaft, aloe gel cures each strand restoring the natural beauty of the hair. In addition, it reinforces the outer layer of the hair which gives you a more manageable crown of glory. It softens, fortifies and rejuvenates by flushing out the dirt particles and bacteria from the scalp. A clean scalp helps to promote hair growth.

25. Treats Alopecia:

Alopecia or male pattern baldness is a common hair problem faced by men. This is a kind of hair loss that occurs at a particular part of the head or leads to full hair loss. This scalp condition can be reduced by regular usage of aloe vera. This is mainly because it rejuvenates the hair follicles and helps to reduce hair fall.

ZINGIBER OFFICINALE / GINGER / ADARAK

Zingiber officinale  or ginger root is the rhizome of the plant , consumed as a delicacy, medicine, or spice. It lends its name to its genus and family (Zingiberaceae). The distantly related dicots in the Asarum genus have the common name wild ginger because of their similar taste.Ginger is indigenous to southern China, from whence it spread to the Spice Islands and other parts of Asia, and subsequently to West Africa and the Caribbean.Ginger appeared in Europe, via India.

Aromatic, pungent and spicy, ginger adds a special flavor and zest to Asian stir fries and many fruit and vegetable dishes. The flesh of the ginger rhizome can be yellow, white or red in color, depending upon the variety. It is covered with a brownish skin that may either be thick or thin, depending upon whether the plant was harvested when it was mature or young. In North America, ginger is mainly used as an ingredient in making sweets such as gingerbread, ginger snaps and ginger biscuits, and as a beverage called ginger ale.

Ginger is also widely used in Europe and the United Kingdom, where it is not only used as a cooking recipe ingredient, but also as an ingredient in making wine and liqueur. A ginger-flavored liqueur called "Canton" is produced in Jarnac, France. Green ginger wine is a ginger-flavored wine produced in the United Kingdom, traditionally sold in a green glass bottle.Ginger is also used as a spice added to hot coffee and tea.

The Benefits of Ginger :

Maintains Normal Blood Circulation:

Ginger contains chromium, magnesium and zinc which can help to improve blood flow, as well as help prevent chills, fever, and excessive sweat.

Remedies Motion Sickness:

Ginger is a known effective remedy for the nausea associated with motion sickness. The exact reason is unknown, but in a study of naval cadets, those given ginger powder suffered less.

Improves absorption:

Ginger improves the absorption and stimulation of essential nutrients in the body. It does this by stimulating gastric and pancreatic enzyme secretion.

Cold and Flu Prevention:

Ginger has been used for thousands of years as a natural treatment for colds and flu around Asia. The University of Maryland Medical Center states that to treat cold and flu symptoms in adults, steep 2 tbsp. of freshly shredded or chopped ginger root in hot water, two to three times a day.

Combats Stomach Discomfort:

Ginger is ideal in assisting digestion, thereby improving food absorption and avoiding possible stomach ache. Ginger appears to reduce inflammation in a similar way to aspirin and ibuprofen.

Colon Cancer Prevention:

A study at the University of Minnesota found that ginger may slow the growth of colorectal cancer cells.

Reduce Pain and Inflammation:

Ginger contains some of the most potent anti-inflammatory fighting substances known and is a natural powerful painkiller.

Fights Common Respiratory Problems:

If you’re suffering from common respiratory diseases such as a cough, ginger aids in expanding your lungs and loosening up phlegm because it is a natural expectorant that breaks down and removes mucus.. That way you can quickly recover from difficulty in breathing.

Ovarian Cancer Treatment:

Ginger powder induces cell death in ovarian cancer cells.

Strengthens Immunity:

Ginger helps improve the immune system. Consuming a little bit ginger a day can help foil potential risk of a stroke by inhibiting fatty deposits from the arteries. It also decreases bacterial infections in the stomach, and helps battle a bad cough and throat irritation.

Combats Morning Sickness:

Ginger has demonstrated a success rate of 75 percent in curing morning sickness and stomach flu

Side effects of consuming ginger are rare, but may include:

Diarrhea

Heartburn

Stomach upset

Mouth irritation

TINOSPORA CORDIFOLIA / GUDUCHI / GILOY

Tinospora cordifolia, which is known by the common names Guduchi and Giloy, is an herbaceous vine of the family It is a shrub that is native to India. Its root, stems, and leaves are used in Ayurvedic medicine.Menispermaceae indigenous to the tropical areas of India, Myanmar and Sri Lanka.

India, typically growing in deciduous and dry forests. The leaves are heart shaped. The succulent bark is creamy white to grey in color, with deep clefts spotted with lenticels. It puts out long, slender aerial roots, and is often grown on mango or neem trees.Flowers are yellow, growing in lax racemes from nodes on old wood. Fruits are drupes, turning red when ripe.The stem contains alkaloidal constituents, including berberine and bitter principals, including columbin, chasmanthin, palmarin, tinosporon, tinosporic acid and tinosporol. The drug is reported to possess one fifth of the analgesic effect of sodium salicylate, which is commonly used in allopathic medicine as an analgesic and an antipyretic (to combat fever).Revered for being one of history’s most famous adaptogens, Guduchisupports normal immune function and the body's natural response to daily stress.

Guduchi is part of the rasayanas (traditional rejuvenators and important daily tonics) category of Ayurvedic plants. As per the Charaka Samhita, Ayurveda’s primary text, it is a medhya rasayana  or mental rejuvenative.The herb supports the normal function of the immune system by maintaining optimal levels of white blood cells like macrophages. The plant is also used in dyspepsia and various types of fever.Tinospora cordifolia contains many different chemicals that might affect the body. Some of these chemicals have antioxidant effects. Others might increase the activity of the body's immune system. Some chemicals might have activity against cancer cells in test animals. Most research has been done in test tubes or in animals. There isn’t enough information to know the effects of Tinospora cordifolia in the human body.

Guduchi has been used for thousands of years in India but is only just beginning to be available in the West.

It is commonly used for the following purposes:

Preventing colds and flu

Reducing the side effects of chemotherapy drugs

Immune system enhancement

Chronic skin disorders such as psoriasis or eczema

Anti-arthritic and anti-inflammatory

Hepatitis & jaundice (helps protect the liver from exposure to toxins)

Gout and rheumatic disorders

Recurrent infections

Hepatitis

Arthritis

Individuals undergoing chemotherapy

Herb functions:

Immunity enhancement: The herb helps increase the effectiveness of the protective white Blood cells and builds up the body's own defence mechanism. It inhibits bacterial growth and increases the body’s immunity by enhancing the functioning of protective cells and macrophages. It is recommended as an adjuvant to patients undergoing chemotherapy. Its aqueous extract has a high phagocytic index, which improves the functioning of protective cells. Guduchi is effective in the management of respiratory, skin and soft tissue infections.

Diuretic: Guduchi is useful as a diuretic, helps to remove urinary stones and assists in the management of urinary disorders including urinary tract infections.

Joint ache: It is useful in treating joint gout, arthritis and other inflammatory joint 

conditions.

Hepatoprotective: The herb is regarded as a liver protector. It is helpful in treating 

liver damage, viral hepatitis and alcohol, medical or chemical poisoning. It is useful in 

the management of fibrosis and regenerating liver tissue.

How to Use Guduchi:

Guduchi is usually available in powdered form, and the standard dosage for immune enhancement is one teaspoon twice daily. It can be taken on an ongoing basis if you are facing a persistent health challenge such as cancer. At the onset of a cold or flu, taking guduchi for a week may help to fight off the infection.

Combined with other herbs:

Guduchi can be combined with Shatavari or ashwagandha as a general tonic, or with aloe vera juice for the purposes of detoxification.

As a paste:

Guduchi can also be used in the form of a paste and applied directly to chronic skin irritations.

Some precautions: 

Although studies have shown no significant adverse side effects, guduchi can be slightly 

constipating if taken for long periods by those prone to sluggish bowels.

COMMIPHORA MUKUL /COMMIPHORA WIGHTII / GUGUUL

Commiphora wightii/Commiphora Mukul with common names Indian bdellium-tree ,gugal,guggul, is a flowering plant in the family Burseraceae. The guggul plant may be found from northern Africa to central Asia, but is most common in northern India. It prefers arid and semi-arid climates and is tolerant of poor soil.

It is a shrub or small tree, reaching a maximum height of 4 m, with thin papery bark. The branches are thorny. The leaves are simple or trifoliate, the leaflets ovate, 1–5 cm long, 0.5–2.5 cm broad, irregularly toothed. It is gynodioecious, with some plants bearing bisexual and male flowers, and others with female flowers. The individual flowers are red to pink, with four small petals. The small round fruit are red when ripe.

The plant is indigenous to India. It excretes a resin, which, when fresh, is wet, fragrant, and characterized by golden hue. When diluted with water the substance forms an emulsion, when exposed to sun it melts, and may be burnt in fire.

Gum oleoresin is applied in herbal medicine.

Active Components:

Bitter elements

Gum oleoresin

Volatile oil

Used For: 

The herb is known to promote metabolism, reduce pains and spasms, relieve constipation and flatulence, treat diarrhea, induce menstruation, promote expectoration, calm the nervous system, rejuvenate and stimulate the body.

The range of conditions in which Indian Bedellium is applied includes: hemorrhoids, gout, endometriosis, diabetes, cystitis, high cholesterol, cervical gland enlargement, bronchitis, arthritis, abscesses, ulcers, tumors, skin conditions, rheumatic conditions, neurosis, nervous conditions, lumbago, leukorrhea, and indigestion.

Preparation and Intake: The herb is applied in form of pills and powders.

Safety: 

The plant may affect kidneys and cause rashes. Don’t consume pungent and sour meals when using the plant.

There is no further data concerning the herb’s safety level. Speak to your health-care provider before using the herb and administer it only under medical control.

ROSA DAMASCENA / ROSA CANINA / ROSE FLOWER

Kingdom     Plantae

Division    Magnoliophyta

Class       Magnoliopsida

Order       Rosales

Family      Rosaceae

Subfamily   Rosoideae

Genus       Rosa

A rose is a woody perennial of the genus Rosa, within the family Rosaceae. There are over 90 species and . They form a group of plants that can be erect shrubs, climbing or trailing with stems that are often armed with sharp prickles.

Rose flowers vary in size and shape and are usually large and showy, in colours ranging from white through yellows and reds. Most species are native to Asia.Roses for the longest time have enjoyed the honor of being the most popular flowers in the world. The reason for popularity of the rose flower may be its wide variety in terms of color, size, fragrance and other attributes.

Some interesting facts about rose flower:

here are over 90 species of the rose.

We usually call the sharp spikes on the stem of a rose bush "thorns". But these are in fact technically prickles.

The flowers of most species of rose have five petals except for the species 'Rosa sericea' which has only four.

The name "Rose" is often used as a girl's name in English speaking countries.

For hundreds of years the rose has been widely recognized as a symbol of love, sympathy or sorrow.

The rose is most commonly used as an ornamental plant grown in the garden for its beautiful flowers.

The rose can be used in perfumes. The nice scent of the rose comes from microscopic perfume glands on the petals. Sometimes rose petals are also dried and packed for commercial use as decoration or for scent.

Because they're low-maintenance and nice to look at, rose shrubs (classified as a shrub even though some don't look like shrubs for example the climbing rose) are used as landscape plants for hedging (the thorns can discourage intruders) or planted on hillsides as a slope stabilizing method to stop soil erosion.

The fruit of a rose is called a rose hip. The berry-like hip are usually red in color but some can be dark purple or black.

Rose hips of some species are extremely rich in vitamin C, because of this the hip is sometimes made into jam, jelly, or brewed for tea. The hip also has minor medicinal uses, used in food supplements and can be pressed or filtered to make rose hip syrup. Hip seed oil is also used in skin products and makeup products.

Medicinal and cosmetic uses of Rose flower:

antidepressant ,antispasmodic ,aphrodisiac ,astringent ,antibacterial ,antiviral ,antiseptic, anti-inflammatory ,blood tonic cleansing, digestive stimulant ,expectorant ,increases bile production ,kidney tonic ,menstrual regulator.

Key Components :

volatile oil

vitamins and minerals (especially A, B, E, and K, potassium and iron)

Medicinal Parts

Flowers, petals, rosehips, root, root bark, essential oil

There are some 300 chemical constituents of which only about 100 have been identified.

Depending on the source, some rose teas are able to supply as much as 1000 mg. per cup. Recent studies now indicate that taking more than 2000 mg. of vitamin C per day changes the vitamin into a pro-oxidant that actually increases cellular damage caused by unstable free radicals. Other experts seem to think that this action takes place with as little as 1000 mg. of vitamin C per day.

The seeds of the Japanese rose are used in Oriental medicine as a diuretic and laxative.

Infusions of dried rose petals are used for headaches and taken after meals to aid digestion.

Steam inhalation of a decoction of rose petals, mint, and cloves help induce sleep.

Compresses soaked in infusions of the dried flowers make a good anti-inflammatory remedy for the eyes or any other inflamed area of the body and applied cool for headaches.

Rosehip tincture is an effective astringent for treating diarrhea or in relieving colic or as a component in cough remedies.

Rosehip syrup is used as a cough remedy or taken as a source of vitamin C.

Rosehip decoction is taken with other herbs to treat chronic diarrhea associated with stomach weaknesses.

Flower decoctions are taken with motherwort for heavy menstruation or combined with Chinese herbs for liver dysfunctions.

Tinctures from the petals are used for diarrhea or sluggish digestion. When combined with other herbs, they areused to treat irregular or heavy menstruation.

Gargles made from petal infusions, used alone or combined with sage, are used for sore throats.

Creams from the essential oil are used to treat dry or inflamed skin.

Lotions from the essential oil are combined with lady’s mantle tincture for vaginal itching.

Rosewater combined with equal amounts of witch hazel is used as a moisturizing lotion for skin prone to pimples or acne. (Rosewater is a by-product of the steam distillation of Bulgarian rose oil and is used as a skin remedy.)

A few drops of essential oil can be added to bathwater for depression, grief, or insomnia.

Massage oil is made by mixing a few drops of essential oil with a neutral oil and used to relieve stress and exhaustion or for sluggish digestion.

Traditional Uses

The dried hips of the wild rose are especially high in vitamin C, having three times that of citrus fruits, and have long been used to prevent scurvy.

The Chinese use the flowers as a qi or energy stimulant and blood tonic to relieve stagnant liver energies. They are also used for digestive irregularities or with motherwort for heavy menstruation.

The Damask rose blooms for only a couple of weeks, during which time the petals are collected and steam distilled to produce true Bulgarian rose oil used in about 96% of all women’s perfumes. Medicinally, it is an important nervine used for depression and anxiety.

The cabbage rose is used to produce French rose oil, which differs significantly in its chemical composition from Bulgarian rose oil and has a reputation as an aphrodisiac.