Author Archives: Dr. Vaidya Karanvir Singh

Abstract: Babies having fever is very common concern among parents. Fever is defines as the temporary rise in body temperature. However it is a positive sign that baby’s body is fighting against infections. Although fever is a sigh of healthy immune system, parents and care givers may worry. Newborn baby is many folds vulnerable to fever. For adults and child fever bring an uncomfortable condition but for an infant there might be a serious infection. After few days it generally subsides. The body temperature of the babies may rise due to other reasons such as crying for longer period of time, during the time of teething, sitting in the hot sun, spending more time in playing etc

What is Fever in Baby?

A child under the age of 12 months has average rectal temperature of 98.6 degree Fahrenheit or 37 degree Celsius. In the morning the temperature can be low and rises later in the day. A body of a baby is less able to regulate body temperature because they have under developing thermoregulatory system. This means that baby’s body took more time to cool down in fever than a usual adult.

Fever of child depends on the method of taking the temperature:

• Rectal thermometer: Above 100.4 degree Fahrenheit (38 degree C)
• Oral thermometer: Above 100 degree Fahrenheit (37.8 degree C)
• Armpit thermometer: Above 99 degree Fahrenheit (37.2 degree C)

What are the causes of Fever in the baby?

• Viral infection such as cold, flu
• Bacterial or viral pneumonia
• Meningitis
• Ear infection
• Fever after vaccination (within 12 hours of shot and lasts for 2-3 days)
• Hot weather or playing in the Sun
• Teething
• Urinary tract infection
• Low birth weight baby is more prone to infections

Other symptoms of fever:

• Sweating
• Cough and congestion
• Chill and shivering
• Headache
• Muscle ache
• Pain in abdomen
• Irritability
• Crankiness
• Tired and lethargic
• Not interested in playing
• Blue cyanosed lips
• Dehydration
• Loss of appetite
• General weakness
• Crying for no often reason
• Fever lasts more than 3 days
• Rarely seizures or convulsions
• Vomits repeatedly
• Refuses to take breastfeed
• Body rashe

Prevention of Fever according to Ayurveda:

• Give your child sponge bath with lukewarm water
• If fever is along with cough give ginger juice with honey two times a day
• Give decoction of ginger and turmeric
• Feed the baby with more liquids mainly milk
• Boil basil or tulsi leaves in hot water and give 1-2 tablespoon 3-4 times a day to a baby
• Forehead sponging with the cotton cloth dipped in a normal room temperature
• Give homemade light food like vegetable soup, khichadi etc

Thing to avoid while baby is having Fever:

• Never delay for medical advice for a newborn or an infant
• Never give any medication to child without checking the temperature
• Avoid over dressing of child
• Avoid giving cold water to child
• Stop giving foods that are hard to digest like raw food, vegetables \etc
• No ice cream, chocolates, fast food etc

Ayurveda View point over fever:

Fever is known as “Jwara” in Ayurveda. The ancient explanation behind Jwara is the vitiation of Agni (digestive fire) by the doshas such as vata, Pitta and Kapha. The hotness of the digestive fire shifts to the periphery and causes rise in the bodily temperature. So during the treatment of fever one should focus on the digestive fire along with balance of doshas and increasing Rogpratirodhak khshmata (immunity)

Herbs effective for Fever:

• Giloy (Tinospora cordifolia)
• Tulsi (holy basil)
• Ginger
• Turmeric
• Amla (indian gooseberry)
• Shigru (moriga)
• Garlic

Managing fever with Chandigarh Ayurved Centre:

1. Giloy capsules

These herbal capsules are prepared from the extract of herb Giloy (Tinospora cordifolia) that improves the immunity & prevent infections in the body. The antipyretic property of this herb reduces fever naturally. Giloy capsule shows antioxidant, analgesic, anti-inflammatory, rejuvenating, immunomodulator, etc properties that relieve dengue fever signs and symptoms. These herbal tablets reduce Kapha dosha, detoxifies pitta dosha, & pacifies Vata dosha. This vati prevents all types of fever, deal with recurrent infection, cold, weakness, etc.

Recommended Dosage: Take 1 capsule twice daily with normal water.

2. Amrit Tulsi Ras

CAC Amrit tulsi ras is Holy basil (Ocimum sanctum) or tulsi is a powerful herb that has been used in Ayurveda and other traditional medical treatments in India for thousands of years. The small holy basil shrub with tiny flowers is considered a sacred plant in India. It was believed that the holy basil leaves had potent powers to flush out toxins from the body. People have tulsi water (water which has tulsi leaves soaked overnight) or chew on a tulsi leaf to improve overall health. Several health products are available with tulsi extracts to help treat cold, cough, and the flu.

Recommended Dosage: Take 2-3 drops twice daily with normal water.

3. Immuno Booster Tablet

It is a pure herbal combination that helps to build up immunity. it consists of effective levels of antioxidants. vitamin C and E circulate in the body to protect it against the damage caused by free radicals. it has natural immunity-boosting properties to prevent and ease cough, cold, headache, and infections. it provides quick relief from early signs of running nose, itching throat, body ache, and weakness. It consists of Giloy, Ashwagandha, Bala – 100 mg, Mulethi, Kali mirch, Lavang, Harar, Tulsi, etc

Recommended Dosage: Take 1 tablet twice daily with normal water.

4. LIVER CARE SYRUP

It is a herbo-mineral Syrup which is purely ayurvedic formulation. CAC Liver Care syrup helps in balancing Pitta dosha. This Syrup enhances regeneration of liver cells, promote functions of liver, and improve blood flow from the liver. CAC Liver Care syrup contains Ingredients like Kalmegh (Andrographis paniculata), Kutaki(Picrorhiza kurroa), Bhumi amla( phyllanthus niruri), Giloy(Tinopora Cordifolia) etc. These herbs shows Antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, Hepato-protective,properties. This syrup improves digestion, enhances appetite.

Learning disabilities are neuro-developmental disorders  that affect individuals brain’s ability to collect , process, analyze or store information. It affect wide range of functional and academic skills which includes the ability to:

• Listen
• Write
• Speak
• Read
• Organize information
• Reason
• Spell

Learning problems that are due to hearing, visual or motor handicap, mental retardation, environmental/ economical/cultural disadvantages or emotional disturbance are not included in Learning Disabilities.

It generally affect people with average or above average intelligence.

WHAT ARE THE CAUSES OF LEARNING DISABILITY ?

There is no specific cause for Learning disability but some factor may contribute to it:

• Heredity : Having parents with learning disability may put the child at risk of developing learning disability
• Stress during early childhood: Experiencing stressful incidents after birth like Head injury, fever or poor nutrition can also contributes to learning disability.
• Environment : Excessive exposure to toxins such as lead etc can increase the risk of learning disability.
• Problems during or after pregnancy : Injury or illness during or after birth, low birth weight, exposure of fetus to drugs or alcohol, premature or prolonged labor etc may enhance the risk of learning disability.

TYPES OF LEARNING DISABILITIES :

• Dyslexia : Language processing disorder in which individual face difficulty in reading, speaking, writing or understanding words. Child vocabulary develops at slow pace.
• Dysgraphia : Individual have problem in putting thoughts into writing. Characterized by poor handwriting as individual show struggle with spatial awareness, letter spacing and motor planning. Person finds it hard to think and write simultaneously.
• Dyscalculia : Also known as math dyslexia . Individual have difficulty with numbers, reasoning and concept. They struggle to read clock, tell time, identify number patterns, count money and apply mathematical formulae.

WHAT ARE THE SYMPTOMS OF LEARNING DISABILITY ?

Some of the common signs are :

• Difficulty telling time
• Short attention span
• Difficulty spelling out words
• Poor memory
• Difficulty in telling time
• Difficulty in reading or writing
• Not able to distinguish between letters, sounds or numbers
• Difficulty in focusing.
• Tendency to reverse letters
• Poor hand-eye coordination
• Disorganized
• Confusion between right or left
• Delayed development of speech.
• Difficulty in expressing emotions and thoughts
• Resistance to changes
• Trouble with following and listening instructions
• Restlessness
• Impulsiveness
• Difficulty with discipline

WHAT ARE THE SUPPORT OPTIONS FOR LEARNING DISABILITIES ?

To support child with Learning Disabilities following options are helpful:

• Special education : Specially trained teacher that helps child to built on child’s strengths and improve child’s academic skills.
• Individualized Education program (IEP) : Developing a special program to specify child’s academic goals and ways to obtain the said goals.
• Therapies: Depending upon the type of learning disorder therapies like speech therapy, occupational therapy, language therapy etc might helps the individuals.

HEALTHY LIFE-STYLE HABITS FOR LEARNING DISABILITY PERSON :

• Sleep : Well rested mind helps to process information more easily. So set a timetable for sleep and limit the screen time before bedtime as light emitted by screens activate the brain.
• Exercise : Regular physical activities helps to improve energy, mood and also provide mental clarity. It helps child to stay attentive and alert throughout the day.
• Diet : Nutrient rich healthy diet helps in development and growth of child thus helps to boost mental focus. Eat good breakfast and eat once every four hours to keep energy levels stable throughout the day.
• Also encourage healthy emotional habits to make them feel connected with their feelings and gradually learning to calm down and regulate their emotions.

AYURVEDIC APPROACH :

In Ayurveds altered functioning of  either one of Indriyas( sense organs ), Manas(mind) and Buddhi( intellect )  hampers the learning process.  When function of Dhi is impaired it cause disability of proper judgment of things. Dhrti vibhramsa cause loss of control over Indriya to maintain perception. Bhuddi become confused due to smriti vibhramsa and Manas get covered by tamas and rajas leading to many behavioral and emotional problems . All these things act as barrier in learning.

PANCHKARMA :

• Nasya : In ayurveda nose is said to be gate way of shira. So drug administered through nose helps to eliminate vitiated doshas and provide nourishment to brain , eyes , ear and throat.
• Shiro-abhyanga :It helps to improve blood circulation in head area thus relax the mind and provide nourishment to brain structures.
• Shiro pichu: It is highly beneficial for nerves, brain, sense organs and hairs. It also pacify the vitiated vata and pitta dosha in head.
• Shiro-dhara: It helps to control brain and spinal cord functions and also control and act on marmas ( vital points ). It relaxes the mind thus enhance awareness, improve memory and clear the tone of voice

HERBS :

• Kushmanda
• Jeevanti
• Amalaki
• Vidari
• Vacha
• Aswagandha

YOGA ASANAS :

• Savasana
• Sukhasana
• Padmasana
• Pavanamuktasana

CHANDIGARH AYURVEDIC CENTER MEDICATION FOR LEARNING DISABILITIES

1. Brodley Syrup:

This syrup maintains the overall activity of the brain. As the herbs used for the preparation of this syrup are Brahmi (Bacopa monnieri), Shankhpushpi (Convolvulus pluricaulis), Dhania (Coriandrum sativum), Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera), Saunf (Foeniculum vulgare), etc. These all acts as a mind relaxant. The use of this syrup provides good results to the dementia patient. This syrup has the best memory boosting power and helps in increasing the blood flow to the brain. It is used as an antioxidant that increases retention power

Recommended Dosage: Take 2 teaspoonful twice daily.

2. Mann Mitra tablet:

Mann Mitra tablet is herbal and purely ayurvedic medicine. It is used in Ayurvedic treatment for psychiatric conditions and help to balance all the three doshas of body i.e vata, pitta, kapha. CAC Mann Mitra tablet improves intelligence and speech problems. It is helpful for making the nervous system strong and nerves as well. It contains various herbs like Bala, Vacha, Shankhpushpi, Nagkeshar etc that help you fight insomnia, anxiety, and stress. It works as a antioxidant, anti depressant, immuno booster, anti epileptic and as neuro protective drug.

Recommended Dosage: Take 1 tablet twice a day with normal water.

3. Rasayan Vati:

Rasayan vati is herbo-mineral Ayurvedic formulation which contains various herbs such as Aswagandha, Shilajeet, Amla, Musali, Shatavar, Brahmi, Abhrak Bhasam, Mukta pisti, Praval pisti, , Kaunch Beej, Saunth, Mirch, Brahmi, etc. These ingredients show antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antipyretic, analgesic, immune-modulator properties. These tablets provides good results in General debility, Psychological disorders, and improves immunity.

Recommended Dosage: Take 1 tablet twice daily.

4. Brain relaxant churna:

This churna is a pure Ayurvedic preparation which contains Amla (Emlica officinalis), Sonth (Zingiber officinale), Pippali (Piper longum), Marich (Piper nigrum), Haldi (Curcuma longa), Bala (Sida cordifolia), Suddha gandhak, Lauha bhasma, etc. It is mainly used for the treatment of psychiatric conditions, speech problems, to improve the intelligence and also beneficial in sleep disturbances, panic attacks, phobia, and relieves stress.

Recommended Dosage: Take 1 tablespoonful twice daily.

Manic disorder is also known as Bipolar 1 disorder or manic depressive disorder. It is a form of mental illness in which affected individual have at least one manic episode in their entire life.

Manic episode– A period of time where individual have abnormally irritated or elevated mood and high energy along with abnormal behavior that rattle daily life.

People also suffer episodes of depression. In between Depression and mania episode many individuals with this disorder can live normal life .

WHAT ARE THE CAUSES OF MANIC DISORDER ?

Main causes of manic disorder are not known. However there are certain factors that can contribute to it. Some of the factors are:

• Chemical imbalance in brain
• Family History: Having history of manic disorder may increase chances of developing it.
• Difficult life situation like abuse, trauma or problems related to money, loneliness etc.
• Sleep: Change in sleep pattern or lack of sleep.
• History of other mental illness or neurologic conditions
• Exposure to stressful conditions and inability to manage it

WHAT ARE THE SYMPTOMS OF MANIC DISORDER ?

Symptoms of manic episodes are :

• Sudden and severe change in mood
• Racing thoughts and rapid speech
• Highly Impulsive behavior and poor judgment
• Risk-taking and reckless behavior
• Increased energy
• Psychosis- Person experience delusions and hallucinations

Symptoms of depressive episodes are :

• Feeling guilt or worthlessness
• Fatigue
• Extreme feeling of sadness or despair.
• Change in sleep pattern
• Change in appetite
• Suicidal thoughts
• Loss of interest in hobbies
• Difficulty in concentration
• Restlessness
• Slowed movements or speech

LIFE-STYLE CHANGES TO MANAGE MANIC DISORDER :

• Maintaining healthy sleep routine: Significant change in sleep pattern tends to trigger an episode. So maintain a constant sleep schedule for a quality sleep helps in management of manic disorder
• Exercise : Daily physical activity helps to improve physical and mental health. It has significant effect on persons mood also thus may helps to manage manic disorders related symptoms.
• Meditation : Meditation helps to relax mind and reduce stress. It also helps to have better control on one’s thoughts and mood thus helps to manage symptoms of manic disorder.
• Quit tobacco or alcohol : Do not indulge in tobacco or alcohol use as they have adverse affect on brain functioning and may trigger an manic episode.
• Management of stress: Stress play a significant role to worsen symptoms of manic disorder . So involve in stress relieving activities, develop hobbies, spend time with loved ones  and let go of toxic relationships to manage the symptoms.

AYURVEDIC APPROACH :

According to ayurveda it occur due to imbalance of three doshas vata, pitta and kapha along with qualities of consciousness(sattva, rajas and tamas).  There is imbalance of ojas that signifies the strength, immunity and ability of body.

• Imbalance of vata dosha causes Racing thoughts, Excitement, Talkativeness, Impulsive behavior.
• Imbalance of pitta dosha causes Irritability, Aggression, Over confidence, Hyperactivity etc.
• Imbalance of kapha dosha causes Inactivity, Loss of appetite, Sadness, Low feeling etc.

PANCHAKARMA :

• Shirodhara: It is a traditional ayurvedic therapy used to relax mind and relieve stress. Medicated oils or decoctions used also helps to rejuvenate mind and provide sound sleep.
• Abhyanga : Massaging body with medicated herbal oils helps to pacify vata dosha and also relieve stress and fatigue of body and mind.
• Nasya karma : It helps to reduce stress and also helps to promote mental clarity
• Shiro-vasti: It helps to strengthen nerve tissues and also sooths mind .It enhance the blood circulation in mind and also provide relieve from fatigue and stress.

HERBS :

• Tagar
• Shankh pushpi
• Jyotishmati
• Haritaki
• Brahmi
• Kappokacchu

CHANDIGARH AYURVEDIC CENTRE MEDICATION FOR THE TREATMENT OF MANIC DISORDER

1) Detox Premium Powder:

Detox premium powder is composed of herbo-mineral preparation that contains ingredients such as moti pishti, shukta pishti, giloy satav, parwal pishti, kamdudha ras, akik pishti, gandhak rasayan, shankh bhasma, sutshekhar ras, shwet parpati, yavakshaar, & shudhyog tablet. These all ingredients in combination deal with the signs & symptoms related to Schizophrenia patients.

Recommended Dosage – Take 1 sachet twice daily with normal water.

2) Brodley Syrup:

This syrup is prepared from the extract of various herbs that deal with the delusion, hallucination, disorganized behavior, lack of emotions, & inappropriate posture, etc. The syrup is prepared from herbs such as Shankhpushpi, Brahmi, Jatamansi, Ashwagandha, Shatavari, Saunf. These herbs show antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, immuno-modulator, & mind relaxant properties. These properties show good results in schizophrenia patients.

Recommended Dosage – Take 2 teaspoonfuls twice daily.

3) Stress Care tablet:

It is an amazing combination of natural herbs like Sarpgandha, Brahmi, Tagar, jatamansi. It helps to relieve stress conditions. They help to pacify the nervous system and also help to increase mental and physical performance. In Ayurveda when there is an imbalance of three energies i.e. Vata, pitta, and Kapha, it leads to disease. Vata has a sub dosha named prana doshas which regulates the sensory perception, brain, and mind. Tarpak Kapha subtype of kapha, governs cerebrospinal fluid, sadhak pitta subtype of pitta doshas governs emotions and their impact on the heart. So any vitiation of these doshas leads to stress. It act as Anti-depressant, relieves Insomnia, Anxiety, and helps in the sign and symptoms of Schizophrenia.

Recommended Dosage – Take 1 tablet twice a day with normal water.

4) Brain Relaxant Churna:

This churna is pure Ayurvedic which helps to rejuvenate the brain cells, improves memory, give strength to the body, & increases the concentration by calming down the brain. It is prepared from herbs that show calming effect on brain and gives you relaxation. Brain relaxant churna shows antioxidant, Neuroprotective, carminative and anti-inflammatory properties. Ingredients present in this churna are Amla (Emblica officinalis), Sonth (Zingiber officinale), Pippali (Piper longum), Marich (Piper nigrum), Haldi (Curcuma longa), Bala (Sida cordifolia), Suddha Gandhak, Lauha Bhasma. It helps to Maintain blood sugar level, Anti-depressant, Insomnia, Increase Haemoglobin levels, Cures indigestion, Helpful in Ulcerative colitis, and Nerve tonic. It helps in dealing with health conditions such as feeling delusion, hallucinations, disordered thinking, disabling, & impair daily functioning related to schizophrenia patients.

Recommended Dosage – Take 1 tablespoon of this churna twice daily.

5) Nerve Plus tablet :

These tablets shows Anti-bacterial, Anti-inflammatory, Antioxidant, Analgesic and immune-modulator properties. It contains herbal ingredients Ghritkumari (Aloe barbadensis), Kali mirch (Piper nigrum), Giloy satav (Tinospora crdifolia), shudha kuchala, shudha shilajeet, shudha vatsnabh, shudh singraf. It is beneficial for migraine, lower back pain, rheumatoid arthritis, gout, stimulating nerves and appetite.

Recommended Dosage: Take 1 tablet twice daily with normal water.

Medical condition which affects the mood and ability to function normally of affected person. It is normal to feel sad or anger as a reaction to life challenges or loss but when individual feel intense sadness, helplessness, worthless or anger which last for days to weeks and interfere with daily life it is Depression.

Stressful living in today’s  world has major impact on individuals mental health along with it, sudden outbreak of corona virus has impacted the day to day life of many individuals putting many people’s at risk of developing Depression. It is important to talk about mental health and make people aware about it, in the today’s time.

WHAT ARE THE CAUSES OF DEPRESSION ?

Various factors contribute in development of depression.

• Genetics : Having history of depression in family may put person at risk for depression.
• Hormone levels : Hormonal changes in female body during different periods like Postpartum period, menstrual cycle, menopause etc can raise risk of depression.
• Brain chemistry : Abnormal levels of brain chemicals may lead to depression.
• Early childhood trauma : Experiencing traumatic events early in life put person at risk.
• Substance use : Alcohol or drug abuse can affect the persons mental health and put individual at risk.
• Medical conditions : Some conditions like chronic illness, Stroke, Heart attack, Parkinson’s disease etc may put person at risk of depression.

WHAT ARE THE RISK FACTORS OF DEPRESSION ?

• Socio-economic status : Having financial problems and low socioeconomic status can increase the risk of depression in individuals
• Gender : Females are at more risk of developing depression than males
• Vitamin-D deficiency : Vitamin-D is helpful in production of serotonin in body which helps to improve the mood but Vitamin-D deficiency impacts serotonin secretion which may increase risk of depression

WHAT ARE THE SYMPTOMS OF DEPRESSION ?

Some of the common symptoms are :

• Fatigue
• Feeling anxious, sad or empty
• Crying a lot or without any reason
• Difficulty in concentration
• Loss of interest in hobbies
• Loss of appetite
• Fluctuation in weight
• Feeling worthless or hopeless
• Feeling frustrated or irritated
• Change in sleep cycle
• Suicidal thoughts
• Self-harm
• Experiencing physical pain like headache, body aches, pain , digestive problems etc without any cause.

LIFE-STYLE TIPS FOR PREVENTION OF DEPRESSION :

• EXERCISE :Performing regular physical activities at least for 20-30 minutes helps to maintain body healthy. It stimulates the brain to produce endorphins that helps to relieve stress and fatigue improving mental health of individuals.
• DEVELOPING A HOBBY: Performing academic, creative or athletic activities that a individual loves can helps to reduce stress , Improve social connections and also enhance the mental health of individual. Doing something a individual love has positive impact on brain  and also improve production of Happy hormones in body.
• HEALTHY EATING HABITS : Consuming health diet rich in nutrients and minerals helps to achieve over all wellness. Eating food omega-3 fatty acid and B-12 rich foods helps to stabilize mood. Consumption of low fat complex carbohydrates helps to improve the level of serotonin hormone in body which contributes to feeling of calm , happiness and well-being.
• QUALITY SLEEP : Getting a sound sleep of 7-8 hours helps to relieve fatigue and stress along with improving the mood. So develop a consistent sleep schedule avoiding heavy meals, screen time near the bed time.
• MEDITATION : Meditation helps to assemble jumbled thoughts that crowd the mind and cause stress, negative thought , fear etc thus helps to relax the mind . It also helps to focus and concentrate giving new perspective to life.
• AVOID ALCOHOL AND DRUGS : Alcohol and drugs have depressing affect on mind that can alter mood and cause stress . So avoid these substances and indulge in health drinks like green tea, Juices etc.
• MANAGE STRESS WITH ALTERNATE THERAPIES : Indulge in yoga, acupuncture , massages etc to relax mind and relieve fatigue and stress.

AYRVEDIC APPROACH :

In ayurveda depression comes under mano avasada. Nidan sevan like intake of unwholesome food, Tamasik food, Sedentary life , fear etc cause vititaion of kapha and tamas in the body which leads to decrease in pitta and vata activities thus causing depression.

PANCHKARMA TREATMENTS FOR DEPRESSION

• Shiro dhara : The warm medicated oils used for shirodhara helps to soothen hypothalamus and also regulates the activites of pitutary glands thus regulating levels of stress hormones to effectively manage stressa nd mind fatigue
• Shiro Vasti : It has healing and soothing effects on head and structure within. It improves the blood circulation in head providing relieve from fatigue, anxiety and stress and calms the mind.
• Virechana : It helps to remove the accumulated toxins in the body and rejuvenates the body and mind thus relieving symptoms of depression
• Abhyanga : Deep tissue massage with medicated herbal oils improve blood circulation in body. It also relieves stress and relax the mind. Medicated oils also helps to balance the vitiated doshas.

HERBS TO PREVENT DEPRESSION :

• Brahmi : It is potent anti-oxidant and is traditional being used for fatigue, anxiety , memory loss, depression and insomnia. It have neuro regenerative capacity
• Jatamansi : : It is a great anti-stress and anti- fatigue herb in ayurveda. It helps to remove blocakge of brain and protect brain cells from harmful radicals. It is a great anti-epileptic herb.
• Turmeric: Curcumine the active ingredient in turmeric has ability to cross blood-brain barrier and help clear the plaque. Also improve neuron functions and encourage neuron growth.
• Ashwagandha : : It is a known adaptogen which helps to regulate production of cortisol and manages stress. It is an excellent ayurvedic herd used for centuries to strengthen mental faculties and improve sleep.

CHANDIGARH AYURVEDIC CENTER MEDICATION FOR THE TREATMENT OF DEPRESSION :

1. Brodley Syrup:

This syrup maintains the overall activity of the brain. As the herbs used for the preparation of this syrup are Brahmi (Bacopa monnieri), Shankhpushpi (Convolvulus pluricaulis), Dhania (Coriandrum sativum), Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera), Saunf (Foeniculum vulgare), etc. These all acts as a mind relaxant. The use of this syrup provides good results to the dementia patient. This syrup has the best memory boosting power and helps in increasing the blood flow to the brain. It is used as an antioxidant that increases retention power
Recommended Dosage: Take 2 teaspoonful twice daily.

2. Mann Mitra tablet:

Mann Mitra tablet is herbal and purely ayurvedic medicine. It is used in Ayurvedic treatment for psychiatric conditions and help to balance all the three doshas of body i.e vata, pitta, kapha. CAC Mann Mitra tablet improves intelligence and speech problems. It is helpful for making the nervous system strong and nerves as well. It contains various herbs like Bala, Vacha, Shankhpushpi, Nagkeshar etc that help you fight insomnia, anxiety, and stress. It works as a antioxidant, anti depressant, immuno booster, anti epileptic and as neuro protective drug.
Recommended Dosage: Take 1 tablet twice a day with normal water.

3. Rasayan Vati:

Rasayan vati is herbo-mineral Ayurvedic formulation which contains various herbs such as Aswagandha, Shilajeet, Amla, Musali, Shatavar, Brahmi, Abhrak Bhasam, Mukta pisti, Praval pisti, , Kaunch Beej, Saunth, Mirch, Brahmi, etc. These ingredients show antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antipyretic, analgesic, immune-modulator properties. These tablets provides good results in General debility, Psychological disorders, and improves immunity.
Recommended Dosage: Take 1 tablet twice daily.

4. Calm Sleep tablet:

calm sleep tablet is an amazing combination of natural herbs like bhang, Brahmi, Tagar, jatamansi. It helps to relieve stressful conditions. They help to pacify the nervous system and also helps to calm minds and make your body relax and light. In Ayurveda when there is an imbalance of three energies i.e. vata, pitta and Kapha, it leads to disease. Vata has a sub dosha named prana doshas which regulates the sensory perception, brain, and mind. calm sleep tablets is effective in depression, anxiety, insomnia, amnesia, Alzheimer’s disease, obesity, and hypertension.

Recommended Dosage: Take 1 tablet twice a daily.

5. Brain relaxant churna:

This churna is a pure Ayurvedic preparation which contains Amla (Emlica officinalis), Sonth (Zingiber officinale), Pippali (Piper longum), Marich (Piper nigrum), Haldi (Curcuma longa), Bala (Sida cordifolia), Suddha gandhak, Lauha bhasma, etc. It is mainly used for the treatment of psychiatric conditions, speech problems, to improve the intelligence and also beneficial in sleep disturbances, panic attacks, phobia, and relieves stress.
Recommended Dosage: Take 1 tablespoonful twice daily.

6. Stress care tablet:

Stress care tablets are pure herbal formulation prepared from ingredients like Sarpgandha (Rauwolfia serpentine), Brahmi (Bacopa monnieri), Jatamansi (Nardostacys jatamansi).The herbs used for formulation of these tablets show antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anti-stress, anti-depressant, & immune-modulator properties. These herbal tablets gives good result in Stress, Depression, Anxiety, All neurological disorders, Increases intelligence, and Improves memory.
Recommended Dosage: Take 1 tablet twice daily.

WHAT IS BACK PAIN?

Back pain is one of the most common ailments people suffer from. The pain can affect people of any age group and it can be very debilitating and uncomfortable. Back pain occurs because of several reasons like lifting heavy weight, any physical injury and other underlying health conditions. It gets severe with age due to age-related degeneration. Pain in lower back is the most common among cases of back pain.

With some dietary and lifestyle changes, back pain can be prevented. There are several types of treatments available for back pain such as oral medications and physiotherapy. Surgery is needed in rare cases.

WHAT ARE THE CAUSES OF BACK PAIN?

Back pain is caused by various factors. Following are the causes of back pain:

• Osteoarthritis
• Rupturing of intervertebral disks
• Bulging of disks
• Injury of the ligament due to heavy weight lifting, constant strain on spine, etc
• Narrowing of the spinal canal leading to spinal stenosis
• Muscle spasm
• Fracture of the spinal discs
• Osteoporosis
• Abnormal curvature of the spine like scoliosis, kyphosis, etc
• Renal stones
• Infections of spine
• Pelvic inflammatory disease
• Cancer of spine

RISK FACTORS FOR BACK PAIN

Following are the factors which make a person at more risk of developing back pain:

• Increasing age, especially between 30 or 40 years
• Excessive body weight
• Having a family history of back pain
• Lack of physical activity
• Cigarette smoking
• Alcohol abuse
• Anxiety
• Depression

SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS OF BACK PAIN

The common signs and symptoms of back pain are:

• Shooting pain radiating from the buttock down to the leg
• Dull, aching pain in back
• Headache
• Foot drop
• Unable to stand straight
• Decreased range of motion of back
• Numbness and tingling sensation in one or both the legs
• Rapid weight loss
• Worsening of pain during night
• Low grade fever
• Urinary incontinence
• Lack of bowel control

HOW BACK PAIN CAN BE PREVENTED?

By following some of the steps, back pain can be prevented. One should do the below said steps:

• Doing regular physical exercise
• Doing back muscle and abdominal exercises for strengthening of core
• Maintaining optimum body weight
• Quit cigarette smoking
• Avoid lifting heavy weights
• Maintaining a good body posture

WHAT ARE THE ACCOMPANYING COMPLICATIONS OF BACK PAIN?

Back pain is associated with the following complications:

• Nerve damage
• Reduced flexibility of spine
• Permanent loss of sensation
• Long lasting pain
• Fatigue
• Paralysis

AYURVEDIC SAY REGARDING BACK PAIN

In Ayurveda, back pain belongs to katishool. It is caused due to imbalance of the vata dosha in body. Vata dosha is responsible for all the body movements and nervous conduction. Any abnormality in it, either an increase or decrease in vata leads to manifestation of a related disease. There are various types of oral medications and panchkarma therapies which are given for the management of back pain.

Panchkarma can be very helpful in the management of katishool. The therapies which are used for the treatment are:

• Snehana
• Swedana
• Mridu samshodhana
• Basti

Some herbs which are given for treating back pain are:

• Lahsun
• Eranda
• Bala
• Sonth
• Ajamoda
• Masha
• Nirgundi

MANAGEMENT OF BACK PAIN WITH THE MEDICINES OF CHANDIGARH AYURVED CENTER

Here are some of the medicines of Chandigarh ayurved center which are used for the treatment of back pain:

1. Nerve up tablet

These tablets are pure ayurvedic formulation. Nerve up tablets help in balancing the vata doshas and kapha dosha. It acts as nervine stimulant. It shows effective results in improving the central nervous system. It contains natural ingredients like shudha kuchala, shudha shilajeet, praval pishti, shankh bhasma etc. This tablet helps in Backache, kneepain, headache, bronchitis, depression.

Recommended Dosage– Take 1 tablet twice daily.

2. Back Care tablet

Back Care tablet is an herbal and purely Ayurvedic formulation. This tablet helps by strengthening your back muscles in relieving back painwhether it be by sciatica, arthritis, kidney infections, infection of the spine and cancer of spinal cord. It helps to pacify Vata dosha and also helps in maintaining proper blood circulation. This is often used for mild to moderate pain all over the body and relaxes your muscles. It contains herbs that act as natural pain relievers.

Recommended Dosage– Take 1 tablet twice daily.

3. Panchasakar Churna

Panchsakar Churana is an Ayurvedic formulation that consists of five ingredients named as – Saindhavan Lavana – (Rock Salt), Swarnapatri – (Cassia angustifolia), Shatapushpa – (Anethum sowa), Shunti – (Zingiber officinale), Balaharitaki – (Unripe fruits of Terminalia chebula).Panchasakar Churna is naturally detoxifying, thus it removes the toxins from the body. The churna has an anti – inflammatory properties due to which it can reduces the swelling. It is also effective in reducing the weight, which can help to reduce the pressure on lumbar area.

Recommended Dosage– Take 1 teaspoonful with Luke warm water at bedtime.

4. Pain-O-Kill Oil

This herbal oil contain ingredients like – Rasna (Pluchea lanceolata), Kustha (Saussurea lappa), Jyotishmati (Celastrus paniculatus), Vatsnabh (Aconitum ferox), Devdaru (Cedrus deodara) etc. This oil is an Ayurvedic medicine which gives best result in all types of pain. It is beneficial for the muscle relaxant, sports injury, low back pain, weakness, etc. This oil has a good result in reducing the inflammation.

Method of Usage – It is applied on the affected portion of the body and massage with light pressure. Do this procedure twice a day.

5. Pain O Kill Tablet

Pain o kill tablet is ayurvedic and purely herbal formulation. It help to relax your musclesand muscles cramps thus relieving pain. It balances all the three doshas of your body thus maintaining proper blood  It provides soothing effect to the affected area of pain. It contains various herbs like Jivanti, Musta, Usher, Bilwa, Shatavri  and Kantakari. All these herbs are natural pain relievers.

Recommended Dosage– Take 1 tablet twice daily.

Also called as seasonal depression which is triggered by the change in season and it commonly begins in fall season. This usually gets worse in late fall or early winters and tends to get better in starting of sunnier days of spring. Less common but individuals get a form seasonal affective depression called summer depression.

It is a mood disorder that tends to happen at same time period every year. Feeling little down during colder times is normal which is called “Winter Blue”. But Seasonal affective depression is beyond winter blues as it is a form of Depression.

WHAT ARE THE CAUSES OF SEASONAL AFFECTIVE DISORDER?

Proper cause of seasonal affective disorder is not known but some factors that may trigger it are :

• Chemical Imbalance in Brain : Brain chemicals called Neurotransmitters helps to send communication signals between nerves. These chemicals also include serotonin which is known as happy hormone which is regulated by sunlight. Due to lack of sunlight in winters the serotonin levels fall further which leads to Seasonal Affective disorder.
• Change in body Biological clock: The biological clock helps to regulate sleep, mood and hormones in person. Due to reduction of daylight in winters there is shift in biological clock. Due to this person is out of steps with day to day schedule.
• Deranged Melatonin levels : Lack of sunlight in winters also effects the production of melatonin. Melatonin affects the mood and sleeping pattern of the person thus overproduction of melatonin leads to person feeling sleepy and sluggish in winters.
• Vitamin-D deficiency: Vitamin-D boost the production of serotonin . Sunlight helps in formation of vitamin-D in body and in winters due to shorter days leads to vitamin-D deficiency. Low level of Vitamin-D also effects serotonin level and your mood.

WHAT ARE THE RISK FACTORS OF SEASONAL AFFECTIVE DISORDER ?

• History of another mood disorder like Bipolar disorder etc
• Family history of SAD or any kind of mental health conditions like Schizophrenia etc.
• Gender : Women are more at risk of developing Seasonal affective disorder than men.
• Geography : Individual living in areas far north or far south from equator with less daylight in winters

WHAT ARE THE SYMPTOMS OF SEASONAL AFFECTIVE DISORDER ?

It has similar symptoms like depression but the major difference is symptoms usually starts as winters approach and subsides with start of spring time.

• Anxiety and Stress
• Fatigue and lack of energy
• Weight gain
• Craving for carbohydrate rich foods.
• Feeling agitated or irritated
• Suicidal thoughts
• Feeling of heaviness in arms and legs.
• Sleeping problems
• Feeling sad most of the day , almost every day.
• Trouble in concentration
• Loss of interest in hobbies and daily activities
• Feeling worthless or hopeless
• Crying without reason
• Social withdrawal

SELF-CARE TO PREVENT SEASONAL AFFECTIVE DISORDER :

• Exposure to Natural sunlight : Getting adequate sunlight helps to improve biological clock, serotonin production and Vitamin-c production thus improving symptom of seasonal affective disorders.
• Regular sleep cycle : Quality sleep also affect the mood of the person. So try to make sleep routine which helps to improve the symptoms and prevent them from worsening.
• Regular Exercise : Regular physical activities helps to regulate mental as well as physical health of the person.
• Socializing : Social interaction helps to divert the negative thoughts and is a significant factor in providing protection against depression.
• Healthy Diet and Vitamin Supplements : Eating diet rich in nutrients helps to maintain a balanced body-mind connection. Taking daily vitamin supplements also helps to maintain body and mind health to counter the symptoms of depression.

AYURVEDIC APPROACH :

Concept of Rtucharya in Ayurveda  has explained the variation of doshas in different  seasons and possible disease which might happen due to variation in doshas. Doshas undergoes stage of accumulation in one season, Stage of aggravation in next and Auto-pacification of dosha in next season.

As said before  Seasonal affective disorder  usually starts in late winter.  According to ayurveda fall happens to be junction of Sharad and Hemanta Ritu.

• Aggravated pittta in Sharad ritu subsides naturally in hemanta ritu along side there is accumulation of Kapha in Hemanta ritu.
• With the accumulation of Kapha it takes over the body and there is slowing down of mental and physical activities.
• It is a natural process and Kapha will come in normal stat in Spring season.
• If seasonal regime is not followed properly the symptoms of kapha increase will be severe leading to development of Seasonal Affective Disorder.

CHANDIGARH AYURVEDIC CENTER MEDICATION FOR THE TREATMENT OF SEASONAL AFFECTIVE DISORDER

1. Brodley Syrup:

This syrup maintains the overall activity of the brain. As the herbs used for the preparation of this syrup are Brahmi (Bacopa monnieri), Shankhpushpi (Convolvulus pluricaulis), Dhania (Coriandrum sativum), Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera), Saunf (Foeniculum vulgare), etc. These all acts as a mind relaxant. The use of this syrup provides good results to the dementia patient. This syrup has the best memory boosting power and helps in increasing the blood flow to the brain. It is used as an antioxidant that increases retention power

Recommended Dosage: Take 2 teaspoonful twice daily.

2. Mann Mitra tablet:

Mann Mitra tablet is herbal and purely ayurvedic medicine. It is used in Ayurvedic treatment for psychiatric conditions and help to balance all the three doshas of body i.e vata, pitta, kapha. CAC Mann Mitra tablet improves intelligence and speech problems. It is helpful for making the nervous system strong and nerves as well. It contains various herbs like Bala, Vacha, Shankhpushpi, Nagkeshar etc that help you fight insomnia, anxiety, and stress. It works as a antioxidant, anti depressant, immuno booster, anti epileptic and as neuro protective drug.

Recommended Dosage: Take 1 tablet twice a day with normal water.

3. Rasayan Vati:

Rasayan vati is herbo-mineral Ayurvedic formulation which contains various herbs such as Aswagandha, Shilajeet, Amla, Musali, Shatavar, Brahmi, Abhrak Bhasam, Mukta pisti, Praval pisti, , Kaunch Beej, Saunth, Mirch, Brahmi, etc. These ingredients show antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antipyretic, analgesic, immune-modulator properties. These tablets provides good results in General debility, Psychological disorders, and improves immunity.

Recommended Dosage: Take 1 tablet twice daily.

4. Calm Sleep tablet:

Calm sleep tablet is an amazing combination of natural herbs like bhang, Brahmi, Tagar, jatamansi. It helps to relieve stressful conditions. They help to pacify the nervous system and also helps to calm minds and make your body relax and light. In Ayurveda when there is an imbalance of three energies i.e. vata, pitta and Kapha, it leads to disease. Vata has a sub dosha named prana doshas which regulates the sensory perception, brain, and mind. calm sleep tablets is effective in depression, anxiety, insomnia, amnesia, Alzheimer’s disease, obesity, and hypertension.

Recommended Dosage: Take 1 tablet twice a daily.

5. Brain relaxant churna:

This churna is a pure Ayurvedic preparation which contains Amla (Emlica officinalis), Sonth (Zingiber officinale), Pippali (Piper longum), Marich (Piper nigrum), Haldi (Curcuma longa), Bala (Sida cordifolia), Suddha gandhak, Lauha bhasma, etc. It is mainly used for the treatment of psychiatric conditions, speech problems, to improve the intelligence and also beneficial in sleep disturbances, panic attacks, phobia, and relieves stress.

Recommended Dosage: Take 1 tablespoonful twice daily.

6. Stress care tablet:

Stress care tablets are pure herbal formulation prepared from ingredients like Sarpgandha (Rauwolfia serpentine), Brahmi (Bacopa monnieri), Jatamansi (Nardostacys jatamansi).The herbs used for formulation of these tablets show antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anti-stress, anti-depressant, & immune-modulator properties. These herbal tablets gives good result in Stress, Depression, Anxiety, All neurological disorders, Increases intelligence, and Improves memory.

Recommended Dosage: Take 1 tablet twice daily.

WHAT ARE THE EATING DISORDERS?

Eating disorders are the serious behavioral conditions which affect both physical and emotional health of an individual.  A person focuses too much on his or her body weight and body shape leading to dangerous eating habits. They can have a serious impact on the body’s ability to get proper nutrition. Eating disorders mostly develop in teenage and young adult years and they can affect people of both sexes. Some of the most common eating disorders are anorexia nervosa, bulimia and binge-eating disorder. If they are not treated properly at time, then they can lead to serious health implications.

The treatment involves medications and cognitive therapy. The symptoms are completely reversible and a person can develop normal eating habits.

WHAT ARE THE CAUSES OF EATING DISORDERS?

The exact cause of eating disorders is not known but it is believed to be due to a combination of factors. Following are the causes of eating disorders:

• Having a genetic predisposition to eating disorders
• Release of certain chemicals in brain
• Psychological problems
• Emotional stress
• Environmental factors

RISK FACTORS OF EATING DISORDERS

Some factors increase the risk of person developing eating disorders:

• Females are at more risk than males
• Dieting
• Anxiety
• Depression
• Obsessive compulsive disorder
• Excessive stress

DIFFERENT FORMS OF EATING DISORDERS

Following are the different types of eating disorders:

ANOREXIA NERVOSA

In anorexia nervosa, a person has an obsessive desire of reducing weight and thus limiting calories to a great extent. It can lead to starvation. It can occur at any body weight and shape and is a life-threatening disorder. A person develops a distorted perception of his or her weight. She doesn’t eat properly and this leads to deficiency of nutrients causing various health repercussions. It can start hampering the daily activities of a person.

BULLIMIA

Bulimia nervosa is an eating disorder which is characterized by large amounts of eating and purging afterwards. There occur episodes of binge eating and purging. People suffering from bulimia avoid eating during the day and this leads to binge eating. Then because of shame, guilt and intense fear of shame, they force either vomiting or use laxatives to get rid of calories. A person doesn’t have control over his eating.

BINGE-EATING DISORDER

People suffering from binge-eating disorder eat large amount of food at a single time and don’t purge afterwards. They then struggle with shame, guilt, regret or depression. They don’t burn off calories with exercise or vomit or eat laxatives for the compensation of their more eating. They eat until they become uncomfortably full. Due to embarrassment, they prefer to eat alone.

WHAT ARE THE SYMPTOMS OF EATING DISORDERS?

Following are the common signs and symptoms of eating disorders:

• Feeling tired
• Fainting
• Thinning of hair
• Hair loss
• Rapid changes in weight
• Dizziness
• Skipping of meals
• Sweating
• Hot flashes
• Dining alone
• Isolation from friends and family
• Chewing food for longer time
• Excessive focus on healthy eating
• Worrying or complaining about being fat
• Doing excessive exercise
• Frequently checking in mirror for seeing one’s own flaws
• Depression

COMPLICATIONS OF EATING DISORDERS

Eating disorders are associated with several complications. For as long time as a disorder remains untreatable, more will be the complications:

• Heart problems
• Gastroesphageal reflux
• Osteoporosis
• Dehydration
• Irregular menstrual cycle
• Infertility
• Stroke
• Anxiety
• Depression
• Stunted growth
• Behavioral problems
• Problems in relationships
• Suicidal thoughts
• Death

HOW EATING DISORDERS CAN BE MANAGED WITH AYURVEDA?

In Ayurveda, eating disorders occur because of disturbance in one’s agni. A person having visham agni will either eat less or more than the required amount. Also, stress and food allergies can be responsible for eating disorders. Eating disorders can be treated with some lifestyle modifications, some oral medications and panchkarma therapies.

Some of the herbs which are used for treating eating disorders are:

• Maricha
• Jatiphala
• Draksha
• Chincha
• Pippali
• Sonth
• Amalaki

MANAGEMENT OF EATING DISORDERS WITH THE MEDICINES OF CHANDIGARH AYURVED CENTRE

Here are some of the medicines of Chandigarh ayurved center which are used for the treatment of eating disorders:

1. Active Plus Tablet

CAC active plus Tabletis a pure herbo-mineral formulation prepared from best quality of herbs. This tablet is best for person mental and physical health,also helps to boost up the immunity. The herbal ingredients present in these tablets are used to maintain person’s health and refreshes the mind and body.

Recommended Dosage– Take 1 sachet twice a day with normal water.

2. Brain Relaxant Churna

This churna is pure Ayurvedic which helps to rejuvenate the brain cells, improves memory, give strength to the body, & increases the concentration by calming down the brain. It is prepared from herbs that show calming effect on brain and gives you relaxation. Brain relaxant churna shows antioxidant, Neuroprotective, carminative and anti-inflammatory properties. Ingredients present in this churna are Amla (Emblica officinalis), Sonth (Zingiber officinale), Pippali (Piper longum), Marich (Piper nigrum), Haldi (Curcuma longa), Bala (Sida cordifolia), Suddha Gandhak, Lauha Bhasma. It helps to Maintain blood sugar level, Anti-depressant, Insomnia, Increase Haemoglobin levels, Cures indigestion, Helpful in Ulcerative colitis, and Nerve tonic. It helps in dealing with health conditions such as feeling delusion, hallucinations, disordered thinking, disabling, & impair daily functioning related to schizophrenia patients.

Recommended Dosage– Take 1 tablespoon of this churna twice daily.

3. Trikatu Tablet

Trikatu Tablet is a hebo-mineral tablet of 650 MG and is purely Ayurvedic formulation. CAC Trikatu Tablet helps to eliminate excess Kapha or mucous from the body, supports respiratory system, manages weight, helps to take out impurities or ama from the body, supports healthy detoxification, reduces swelling. It shows anti-inflammatory, analgesic, expectorant, antioxidant properties. This tablet is made up of equal parts of three herbs such as Pippali (Piper longum), Shunthi (Zingiber officinale), & Marich (Piper nigrum) that maintains the metabolism in the body. The regular use of this tablet balances the thyroxine hormone and treats hyperthyroidism naturally. It is an Appetizer and it improves digestion, supports normal gastric function, and normal circulation.

Recommended Dosage– Take 1 tablet twice a day with normal water.

4. Liver Care Tablet

Liver Care Tablet is a herbo-mineral tablet of size 650 MG and is a purely ayurvedic formulation. CAC Liver Care tablets help in balancing Pitta dosha. These tablets stimulate the growth of new liver cells, promote functions of liver, and improve blood flow from the liver. It helps in the treatment of fatty liver, Liver cirrhosis, Hepatitis, hepatomegaly, and obstructive Jaundice. CAC Liver Care Tablets contains Ingredients like Kalmegh (Andrographis paniculata), Kutaki(Picrorhiza kurroa), Bhumi amla( phyllanthus niruri), Giloy(Tinopora Cordifolia), Yavakshar( Hordeum vulgare), Imli Kshar( Tamarindus indica), Mukta Shukta pisti etc.

Recommended Dosage– Take 1 tablet twice a day with normal water.

5. Liver care Syrup

Liver Care syrup helps in balancing Pitta dosha. This Syrup enhances regeneration of liver cells, promote functions of liver, and improve blood flow from the liver. It helps in the treatment of fatty liver, liver cirrhosis, Hepatitis, hepatomegaly, and obstructive Jaundice. CAC Liver Care syrup contains Ingredients like Kalmegh (Andrographis paniculata), Kutaki(Picrorhiza kurroa), Bhumi amla( phyllanthus niruri), Giloy(Tinopora Cordifolia), Yavakshar( Hordeum vulgare), Imli Kshar( Tamarindus indica), Mukta Shukta pisti etc. These herbs show Antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, Hepato-protective, properties. This syrup improves digestion, enhances appetite.

Recommended Dosage:Take 2 teaspoonfuls twice daily.

Caffeine is the most common drug used in today’s world as it acts as Central nervous system  stimulant. It helps to increase wakefulness, improve concentration and focus and alleviate fatigue. Intake of caffeine in moderate amount is helpful however high consumption of caffeine  may cause harm to the body.

Caffeine is a bitter white crystalline purine with chemical name 1,3,7 tri-methylxanthine . It takes 45 minutes to absorb after consumption and peaks in the blood between 15 minutes to 2 hours.

Consuming caffeine in form of beverage gets absorbed quickly and it is able to cross into the brain thus providing quick boost of energy when drank empty stomach.

It gets broken down mainly in liver. It remains for 1.5 to 9.5 hours in blood depending on various factors. Person tends to develop tolerance with regular intake of caffeine which reduce caffeine’s stimulant effects unless  high amount is not consumed.

MECHANISUM OF ACTION :

• CENTRAL NERVOUS SYSTEM : It is a antagonist of adenosine A2A receptors  and this produce the wake-fullness -promoting effect.
• RENAL SYSTEM : Caffeine has diuretic effects because of its stimulatory effects of renal blood flow thus increase in sodium excretion and glomerular filtration.
• CARDIOVASCULAR SYSTEM : By inhibiting adenosine receptors it promotes catecholamine release that has vaso-constricting effects which raise systolic blood pressure in individual.

Source of caffeine :

Caffeine is naturally present in leaves , fruit and seeds of in some  species of plants. Some of the common sources are

• Tea leaves and buds
• Coffee beans
• Cacoa beans
• Dola nuts
• Guarana seeds

HARMFUL EFFECTS OF EXCESSIVE CAFFEINE CONSUMPTION :

High caffeine intake has many potential harmful effects on body of individual. Some of them are :

• Stomach disorders : Acids present in caffeine  stimulates the producing of more acids in stomach and gastro-intestinal motility. Too much caffeine intake can cause stomach disorders like cramps, nausea, bloating and diarrhea in individuals.
• Induce anxiety : Caffeine bind with mutated A2a gene in certain individuals and interfere with anxiety regulation. It triggers the fight or flight response of the body so the person mind is on high alert. Person suffering from anxiety disorder may get anxiety attack with consumption of caffeine.
• Cause Insomnia : Individual consuming caffeine to increase wakefulness can sometimes interfere with the sleep cycle. Person may have hard time falling asleep or may not get restorative and restful sleep.
• Restlessness : Excessive intake of caffeine leads to psychomotor agitation thus making it difficult to calm the body and mind . People may experience rambling flow of thought and speech leading to restlessness.
• Muscle twitching: Caffeine has stimulants that cause contraction of muscles and slow down the time needed for relaxation of muscles. Consuming excessive caffeine can cause twitching of the muscles in hands and legs.
• Diuresis : Caffeine has stimulating effect on bladder muscles thus increase urgency and frequency of urination thus leads to development of urine incontinence.
• Heart conditions : Caffeine increase the total cholesterol , triglycerides and low-density lipoproteins thus increasing the risk of development of heart diseases.
• May cause osteoporosis : Caffeine hinds with the calcium absorption, Metabolism and elimination in body. This disruption can contributes to the development of certain bone diseases like osteoporosis. Caffeine also reduce the bone mineral density thus increasing the risk of fracture.
• Diabetes : Caffeine stimulates the body cells response to insulin thus causing low absorption of sugar from blood to cells . Low adsorption leads to increase in Blood sugar level which is not good sign for individual with diabetes.
• High blood pressure : Caffeine has vaso-dilating property thus consumption of caffeine by Hypertension patient can increase the blood pressure.
• Glaucoma : Caffeine may increase the fluid pressure inside the eye. Increased  pressure start within 30 minutes of consumption and lasts for at least 90 Minutes.

ALTERNATIVE DRINKS FOR CAFFEINE

• Herbal tea : Most herbal teas are free from caffeine thus they helps to enhance energy levels in body by aiding in sleep, keeping calm and supporting gut health.
• Protein Shakes : You can swap caffeine with protein shakes to maintain energy levels throughout the day even on the busiest day.
• A Glass of water : Dehydration can effect mood and cause fatigue in person. So to keep body hydrated and relieve fatigue try drinking a glass of water
• Pomegranate juice: It is helpful to increase the blood circulation of the body and relieve muscle fatigue thus keeps a person active throughout the day.

HERBS AS SUBSTITUTE FOR CAFFEINE :

There many herbal substitute for caffeine which have additional health benefits :

• Vidarikand : It is a ayurvedic herb which contain phytochemicals like daidzein, genistein and puetuberosanol that helps to improve the alterness of mind and body. Its effects starts to fade within 1-1.5 hours depending on quality after consumption thus can replace caffeine for energy and wakefulness.
• Ashwagandha : It is a potent adaptogen that helps the body to minimize stress and enable the body to sustain and reserve vital energy throughout the day without affecting the sleep .
• Shatavari : It is a rejuvenating herb that helps to strengthen and nourish the body and mind of individual.