Dr. Richa Sharma Khare

You may lose 50 to 100 strands of hair each day. Yet the thinning of your scalp hair is almost unnoticeable owing to the simultaneous new hair growth filling up the bald spots. But hair loss occurs if this cycle of shedding and growth gets distorted. Stress and an unhealthy lifestyle take a toll on your hair as well.

1. The following is a list of the types of hair loss that are caused due to high levels of stress:
   • The body secretes hormones such as non-adrenaline or Norepinephrine and cortisol in response to stress. These hormones force a large number of hair follicles into a static phase, hindering new hair growth. As a consequence, simple activities such as combing or rinsing the hair might cause hair fall in large strands which do not get replaced by new hair again. This abnormality is known as ‘Telogen effluvium’.
   • Trichotillomania is a condition characterized by one pulling out his/her own strands of hair forcefully; most often triggered by negative thoughts or other psychological disorders such as depression or excessive frustration, boredom, stress or tension. 
   • Alopecia areata is a condition caused by severe stress wherein the immune system of the body attacks the hair follicles, resulting in hair loss.
   • Other lifestyle-related factors can also have an adverse impact on the hair growth. Let us see how:
2. Excessive hair styling or hair treatments with hot oil actually swell up the hair follicles. Chemical therapies, dyes, flat irons, blow dryers or bad brushes as well as a range of hair dressing techniques such as hair extension, application of coloring agents, gels and hair sprays further affect the individual strands of hair.
3. A junk food diet rich in salt, sugar and saturated fats but less in essential nutrient content can tremendously affect your hair.
4. Smoking inhibits blood flow to the hair follicles and interrupts the process of hair growth and hair fall.
5. Environmental factors such as pollution from:
   • Car exhaust fumes disrupt the keratin (protein formation) in the hair structure, making it fragile.
   • Cigarette smoke contains carcinogens that weaken one’s hair follicles.
   • Dust particles trigger allergies giving way to inflammation or scalp infections.
   • Over exposure to the sun causes brittle, dry and lifeless hair, mainly characterized by split ends. If you wish to discuss about any specific problem, you can consult an ayurveda.

In case you have a concern or query you can always consult an expert & get answers to your questions!

Ayurveda is an ancient Indian life science that requires you to make various lifestyle changes along with the use of medication that is based on herbs and condiments with massages and Yogic postures. This field of medicine believes in getting to the root of the problem so as to cure it and prevent it in the future as well. Gastritis is no different and enjoys the same kind of attention when it comes to Ayurveda. 

Here is everything you need to know about the Ayurvedic perspective of gastritis: 

Definition: As per Ayurveda, signs and syptoms of Amlapitta are like gastritis, which can lead to the occurrence of stomach ulcers when the inflammation of the stomach lining goes untreated for a prolonged period of time. This inflammation is the basic outcome of the condition. 

Causes: As per Ayurveda imbalance of tridoshas is the cause of any disease. Problems in the Vata and Pitta Dosha, can cause this condition of Alapitta or gastritis. Also, a build up of Ama or toxins due to poor digestive health, can lead to the occurrence of this disease. As per Ayurveda, there are many reasons that may cause this toxin build up and the imbalance in the Tridosha. This includes eating spicy food on a regular or frequent basis and taking too many drugs like pain killers and analgesics which can lead to this condition. Also, too much of alcohol consumption and greasy food can cause gastritis. Further, one of the main causes of gastritis as per Ayurveda, is the presence of too much stress and worry, and the lack of a proper routine when it comes to eating, sleeping and exercising. 

Symptoms: The main symptoms include appetite loss and nausea, as well as discomfort and pain in the abdomen. Gastrointestinal bleeding and blood discharge may also occur for patients suffering from this condition. Headaches and vomiting are also common symptoms of this condition. 

Medication: There are various Ayurvedic medicines that can help in treating this condition. Dadima Ghrita is ghee based preparation that can be taken every morning with a glass of warm milk in order to activate the digestive fires and improve the digestive powers. The difference can usually be seen in a matter of days. Herbs like Amla(Indian goose berry), mulethi(Liquorice), Neem(Azadiracta Indica), Munakka( Big raisins), Shatavari(Asparagus recemosus), Trifla are very useful in treating Amlapitta. Lemon juice, ajwain, amla and ginger are also helpful in indigestion and cures Amlapitta indirectly. 

Lifestyle Changes: Avoiding spicy and greasy food as well as stopping alcohol abuse and smoking can help in curing this condition. One should also stay away from excessively stressful mental and physical tasks. 

Taking the right steps at the right time for a proper routine with good habits can help in treating this condition as per Ayurveda.

In case you have a concern or query you can always consult an expert & get answers to your questions!

Cancer indicates the growth of certain unusual cells, generally uncontrolled in nature, in any part of your body. It may also refer to a malignant tumor and it can affect any organ or any part of your body. There are many different cancers accordingly, such as lung cancer, bladder cancer, skin cancer or blood cancer. Ayurveda offers effective measures for preventing cancer.

Read on to find more about the tips and get better prepared to fight this killer:

1. According to Ayurveda, having fresh foods can help you to prevent cancer. Consuming more of green leafy vegetables and fresh fruits may prove to be helpful.
2. Avoiding fat based foods or fried foods can be effective in preventing cancer. Strike off hydrogenated fats (such as cookies, peanut butter, crackers etc) or saturated animal fats from your diet.
3. Exercising on a regular basis may be very helpful. Stretching exercises, walking, breathing exercises and aerobics are considered to be useful preventive measures for cancer.
4. Meditation and yoga are also effective ways to prevent cancer. These can help you to reduce stress and remain calm.
5. Drinking green tea regularly can be very useful for killing any growth of cancerous cells in your body and thus help you to prevent cancer.
6. Cutting down on foods with higher quantities of sugar can help you to prevent cancer.
7. Include foods replete in vitamin D and vitamin C or citrus foods as these help to combat many kinds of cancer.
8. Incorporate spices like turmeric in your daily cooking regimen. The 'curcumin' present in turmeric coupled with a few other accompanying properties can help to prevent the growth of cancer cells in your body.
9. Garlic, whether consumed raw or cooked, can help you to fight the killer that cancer is.

In case you have a concern or query you can always consult an expert & get answers to your questions!

Skin is the widest organ of our body. It covers and protects the underlying muscles and organs. It guards our body from the invasion of pathogens, acts as insulation, regulates body temperature and is one of the sense organ. It plays a major role in synthesis of Vitamin D. The melanin pigment of skin protects us from UV radiations of Sun. While some of you are blessed with the natural charisma, many of us have to undergo the daily struggle of beauty creams, toners, scrubs and pastes in order to overcome our skin woes. While a large array of cosmetics promise deliverance from the same, they are not without their fair share of side effects. 

In fact more often than not, the chemicals which these creams comprise leave your skins scathed even more. Consequently, many of you have turned to natural therapies for countering skin ailments. Most of our skin eruptions, rashes and abscesses are related to our metabolism and hormonal changes, bad lifestyle, junk foods etc. 

Ayurveda our ancient science of medicine has suggested many herbal remedies and natural methods to protect our skin from pimples, acne, dark circles, wrinkles and marks left by pimples and to increase the fairness of the skin. Pimples , acne dark circles, wrinkles and marks give a dull and unhealthy look. These natural therapies rejuvenate the skin but also provide cures to the germ of these issues. To keep our skin healthy and glowing , it is very important to be healthy internally. 

Here are some tips that will keep your skin young, healthy and glowing. 

1. Eat Right- Eat fresh , healthy food, include seasonal fruits in daily diet. Avoid oily, spicy, junk food. Avoid heavy food, over eating, late night dinner. 
2. Drink Right- Drink plenty of plain normal water as per your requirement. Fresh juices, milk, buttermilk, lemon honey water, helps to keep skin hydrated and cleanse your body by flushing out all the toxic substances. Avoid Alcohol, aerated beverages, drinks which contains preservatives. 
3. Exercise- It increases circulation and intake of oxygen which keeps your skin healthy. Try to clean your face 2-3 times a day to keep your skin germ free. Take bath daily. 
4. Raw Milk- Use raw milk to clean your skin, it removes dirt from pores and moisturize skin naturally. 
5. Oil application- Regular or frequent application of medicated oil ,sesame oil, olive oil, pure coconut oil, to the body and head will enhance the immunity and integrity of the skin and helps improve the skin texture as well. 
6. Scrubbing- Scrubbing is an essential step for wholesome skin care because it not only sheds the dead cells but also improves penetration of other creams and face packs. Bengal gram, curd, turmeric scrub- make a paste of three apply it on skin after 5 minutes rub it gently then wash it with normal water. Green gram powder (chilka moong dal) also used in place of bengal gram (chane ka atta). 
7. Papaya Pulp- Massage your face with papaya pulp at least once a month. It will help you to get glowing and flawless skin. Paste of tomato juice, curd and oatmeal: Regular use of this paste helps in brightening the skin and reducing dark spots, scars and blemishes. It purifies your skin and helps you get rid of the acne scars. Apply paste on face and wash it after 15 minutes 
8. Ayurvedic herbs: Since time immemorial, sandalwood (white and red), lodhra (symplocos recemosa), Vacha (sweet flag) have been known to be full of skin enriching properties. It is one of the most reliable products when it comes to clearing out the unwanted blotches on your skin. Making a paste of sandalwood with rose water or rose milk can go a long way in reducing the scars and rashes on the skin. 
9. Honey and aloe vera combo - Honey and Aloe Vera are two such ingredients that can improve your skin conditions significantly. Endowed with cleansing properties, they help to re-nourish the skin and redefine its beauty. Blending honey with aloe vera into a fine mixture may prove to be a helpful toner. In case you have a concern or query you can always consult an expert & get answers to your questions!

Everyone desires good and healthy hair. More and more people are falling back on Ayurvedic solutions for every single issue. In Ayurveda, you have various simple steps to make your hair healthy, strong and beautiful. These are all power packed cures that are likely to work out more than any other alternative. All your hair issues are solved from inside to make your mane perfect. Here are a few Ayurvedic solutions for healthy hair-

1. Amla, the Indian Gooseberry: Amla or Amalaki is a decent element for filtering your blood. It is extremely powerful in relieving heartburn. The Vitamin C content in amla takes care of hair loss and dry hair. Dry some amla and powder them. Blend this powder with warm water and make a paste. Apply this on your scalp to get thick and long hair. It advances the growth of your hair and makes it dark. It solves a considerable amount of other wellbeing issues as well.
2. Ayurvedic oils: Pick any of the essential oils like coconut oil, almond oil, or brahmi oil, and give your scalp a hot oil rub. A back rub is useful for improving the dissemination of blood in your scalp. It rejuvenates your hair follicles. In a brief period of six months, you will begin seeing the difference. Your hair develops better, thicker and more, and hair fall is diminished. Take 2 tablespoons of lemon juice, which is naturally crushed, and blend it in some oil to warm up. Utilize this blend for a hot oil rub if you are experiencing dandruff.
3. Methi or Fenugreek: Methi is incredible for advancing hair growth. It is an extremely normal herb found in each home and is easily accessible. Take some methi and roast it. After that, grind it well. Take some warm water and make a paste of methi in water. Apply it on your hair and let it stay for 20 minutes, and after that wash off with water.
4. Jatamansi, the Aromatic Herb: This herb is called Muskroot or the Indian Spikenard sometimes. This herb is valuable for expelling all infections in the blood and makes your skin sparkle. Apply this herb specifically on your scalp to advance the growth of hair. Make sure not to take more than 6 mg.
5. Rosemary essential oil: This hair oil works efficiently on your hair and enhances hair regrowth. Rubbing the head delicately with Rosemary oil thrice a week improves the working of your sensory system, stops untimely greying of hair and decreases hair fall. For best and quicker results use it overnight.
6. Aloe vera: Aloe Vera makes your system clean. It is regularly used as a part of Ayurveda for its various properties that are useful for your well-being. Take 2 tablespoons of the Aloe Vera leaf and either drink or swallow it. This is useful for improving the functioning of your metabolism too.

In case you have a concern or query you can always consult an expert & get answers to your questions!

Diabetes is a chronic metabolic disorder that results in higher level of blood sugar in the body. It is assuming epidemic proportions and India has become the new diabetic capital with more than 50 million diabetic people. The main problem with diabetes is that it does not completely go away and there is a whole myriad of issues that it brings along with it. Heart attack, stroke, eyesight problems, delayed wound healing, nerve damage and impotence. Therefore, diabetes and by that we mainly mean blood sugar level has to be managed so that there is a delay in onset of the associated conditions and/or reduced in severity.

Ayurveda refers to diabetes as Prameha (excessive urination) and Madhumeha (sugary urine) and has identified close to 20 forms of the disease. According to Ayurvedic belief, each disease is caused due to imbalance in kapha, pitta, and vata doshas and diabetes is caused by all these, predominantly by kapha. With any stream of medicine, management of diabetes involves two tracks – one is lifestyle changes and the second is medications.

Lifestyle changes include the following:

1. Diet: Reduce the amount of rice, sugar, potato, sweet fruits, maida, deep fried foods, and red meat. Protein-rich foods like lentils, soya, green leafy vegetables and fish should be increased. Diet plan should change to small, frequent meals instead of binge eating.

2. Exercise: Include 30 minutes of regular exercise into your daily routine if you have a diabetic predisposition.

3. Others: Avoid smoking and alcohol, ensure sufficient sleep, avoid sleeping during day time, improved foot and eye care, periodically check sugar levels and manage stress levels.

Medication

Ayurveda has a whole lot of home remedies which have proven to be very effective against diabetes:

1. Jambhul: Eugenia Jambolana whether eaten raw or juice extract has been shown to have beneficial effects in managing sugar levels and cholesterol.

2. Gymnema sylvestre: Used to manage diabetes for over 2000 years, it reduces sugar cravings and is being touted as the future for diabetes treatment.

3. Bitter gourd (Momordica charantia): It has 3 components that give it strong antidiabetic properties. The charantin reduces blood sugar levels; the polypeptide has insulin-like effects; and lectin that again has hypoglycemic effects.

4. Bel (Aegle marmelos): Also known as wood apple, leaves of the plant are shown to have antidiabetic properties. 5 to 10 leaves can be chewed on a daily basis to help control blood sugar levels.

5. Fenugreek (Trigonella foenum graecum): Consuming 10 g of fenugreek seeds soaked in water increases the amount of insulin produced, thereby increasing sugar breakdown.

6. Neem: Chewing about 4 to 5 leaves in the morning on an empty stomach helps to control blood sugar levels. Alternately, neem leaves powder is available which can be dissolved in water and consumed. If you wish to discuss about any specific problem, you can consult an Ayurveda.