INTRODUCTION-

Dementia is a progressive and chronic syndrome involving decline in cognitive funtctions which is not to be considered as symptoms of normal ageing.

Ayurvedic view-

Ayurvedid view for dementia is disturbance and imbalance in the three doshas of the body vata, pitta and kapha.

Vata has considerable role in dementia. In Ayurveda, dementia can be compared to smruti-nasha/loss of memory.

CAUSES OF DEMENTIA-

• Dementia is more frequent with increasing age.
• Dementia is caused by degeneration of nerve cells in brain, the nerve cells die more quickly than in case of normal ageing.

PSYCHOLOGICAL SYMPTOMS OF DEMENTIA-

• Inappropriate behavior
• Aggression
• Depression
• Sleep problems
• Repetitive questioning
• Problems in dealing with money
• Apathy
• Agitation
• Psychosis

RISK FACTORS –

• Vitamin and nutritional deficiencies
• Sleep disturbances
• Lack of exercise
• Excessive use of alcohol
• Cardiovascular risk factors
• Depression
• Diabetes
• Smoking
• Air pollution
• Head injuries

HOW TO PREVENT DEMENTIA-

• Keep your mind active 
• Be physically and socially active 
• Avoid smoking
• Get enough vitamins
• Maintain a healthy diet
• Get good quality sleep
• Treat hearing problems
• Manage cardiovascular risk factors

NATURAL BEST HERBS FOR DEMENTIA-

Ayurvedic medicinal herbs modulate the neuro-endocrine-immune systems and are also rich sources of antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds.

ASHWAGANDHA (Withaniasomnifera) –

• Accumulation of beta-amyloid peptide, a brain protein, disrupts the communication between the brain cells and kills them, thus leading to dementia. 
• Intake of Ashwagandha reduces the accumulation of beta-amyloid peptide in the brain and reduces the death of the brain cells.
• Withaniasomnifera provides overall nourishment and rejuvenation.
• Ashwagandha repairs and inhibit degeneration of brain cells.
  It prevents and reverses the degeneration of brain cells which leading to dementia. 
• Ashwagandha also promotes the growth of the brain cells, which improves memory.

SHANKHPUSHPI (Convolvulus pluricaulis)-

• Shankhpushpi extract may reduce biological markers of dementia disorder.
• Shankhini pacifies Tridoshas, i.e. theVata (air), Pitta (fire), and Kapha( water) doshas and works more on Vata and Pitta doshas.
• Shankhpushpiis a potent brain tonic andpowerful   memory booster that improves intelligence and functioning of the brain. 
• It also helps in enhancing concentration, learning capabilities, mental fatigue, insomnia, stress, anxiety, depression, etc.

BRAHMI (Bacopamonnieri)-

• Brahmi soothes and nourishes the cerebellum thus promoting memory and intellectual ability, calms the mind and improves concentration.
• It isvery effective in epilepsy, weakening of memory or dementia and insanity.
• Brahmihas cooling effect on the body and mind 
• It decreases the levels of cortisol, which is responsible for strees, anxiety and dementia.
• Brahmi help ease the symptoms of demensia due to the presence of the amyloid compound in the neuron that is responsible for damaging the brain. 
• Brahmi helps inboosting your immunity naturally6nse time of our immune system against various diseases and ailments.
• The antioxidant property of brahmi inhibits beta amyloid induced degeneration of brain cells.
• It works as ananti-anxiety,tranquilizer,anti-depressant, and brain function enhancer.

TURMERIC (Curcuma longa)

• Curcuma longa is one of the most effective herb for improving memory and concentration power. 
• Turmeric has antioxidants, curcumin, and curcuminoids which reduce free radicals and degeneration of brain cells. 
• Turmeric also lowers inflammation of nerves, improves sleep quality, reduces anxiety and acts as a stress buster.

PANCHKARMA THERAPY FOR DEMENTIA-

Shirodhara-

• Shirodhara is a classical Ayurvedic procedure that creates profound relaxation of the mind and body.
• In this therapy the medicated oil is dripped on your forehead to keep you stress free.
• Shirodhara is done on the center of the forehead in an oscillating manner.
• shirodhara is deeply relaxing and revitalizes the central nervous system
• This therapy is highly effective in anxiety, depression, dementia, stress, insomnia, epilepsy, migraine, hypertension, diabetic neuropathy, paralysis, hemiplegia etc.

Types of dhara–

• Tailadhara (medicated oil)
• Kwathadhara(herbal decoctions)
• Ksheeradhara(medicated milk) 
• Thakradhara (buttermilk) 
• Jaladhara(water or coconut water)

DEMENTIA GO KIT

DEMENTIA GO KIT

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CAC offers most effective herbal remedies such as Brodley Syrup, Rasayana Vati, Nerve Up Tablet,Tagaradi Choorna and Detox Premium Powder etc. for ayurvedic treatment of dementia.

These medicines are pure herbal, safe to use and free from side effects.

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.

Recommended Dosage : Take 1 tablet twice daily.

3. Calm Sleep tablet:

CAC 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.

Recommended Dosage: Take 1 tablet twice daily.

4. 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.

5. Detox Premium Powder:

This formulation act at the level of the nervous system and facilitate proper conduction of signal impulse from the nerves to the muscles. The powder contains – Moti pishti, Parwal pishti, Shukta pishti, Giloy satva, Kamdudha ras, Jahar mohra, Akik pishti, Gandhak rasayan, Tal sindoor, etc. These ingredients balance all the Tridosha (Vata, Pitta, Kapha). It provides relief in psychosis, helps in mental weakness like short temper, decreased the ability to think, improves the memory power, and reduces the calcium level that hampers the brain functions.

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

INTRODUCTION-

When the human body breaks down the chemicals called purines, it produces uric acid. Purines are found naturally in the human body. Normally, uric acid gets dissolved and gets released out of our body through urine. But if the body is producing too much uric acid or if the body is not excreting enough uric acid, it starts accumulating in the body. This results in the formation of sharp needle like crystals which accumulates around the small joints. Accumulated crystals cause swelling inflammation, and pain and this condition is known as gout.

PRE-MONITORY SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS (POORVAROOPAM)-

• Excesive or absence of sweating.
• Discolouration (Blackish) of the joints. 
• Sparshagytatawam and Supti: Insensibility to touch and numbness in the affected joints.
• Excessive pain if there is injury to the afflicted part.
• Itching over the joints. 
• Burning sensation in the affected part.
• Looseness of the joints.
• feeling of  tiredness or laziness 
• Pricking pain, twitching sensation, splitting pain, heaviness and numbness in the knees, calf region, thighs, umbilical region, shoulders, hands, feet and other joints in the body.
• Appearance of circular patches in the body.
• Intermittent claudication
• sudden disappearance and appearance of pain

CAUSES-

• Production of excess uric acid
• Reduced Excretion of uric acid from the body.
• Hereditary
• Medications Intake of diuretics, aspirin, blood pressure lowering medications, cyclosporine, etc for a longer period often results in high levels of uric acid. 
• Sedentary life style.
• Lack of exercise or physical inactivity. 

CLASSIFICATION OF VATARAKTA-

Vatarakta has 3 different classifications in Ayurveda as follows-

1. Uttana Vatarakta (superficial) 
2. Gambhira Vatarakta (deep) 
3. Ubayasrita Vatarakta

DIAGNOSTIC CRITERIA –

• A detailed history taking
• Physical examination
• Blood examination
• Joint fluid test
• X-ray
• ultra sonography
• dual energy CT scan

COMPLICATIONS-

• Dyspnoea or difficulty breathing 
• Tastelessness and excessive thirst 
•  stiffness in the head,  fever and state of confusion 
• Wasting of muscles and trembling 
• Giddiness and mental fatigue 
• Damage to vital parts 
•  prana kshaya: diminution of general wellness
• Indigestion necrosis of the tissue 
• Paraplegia 
• Cellulites 
• Suppuration 
• Pricking pain and burning sensation
• Disfigurement of the digits 
• Eruptions 
• Insomnia 
• Highly coloured and scant urine  (very rarely in few patients)

 MANAGEMENT OF VATARAKTA IN AYURVEDA-

 Since vatarakta is caused by vitiation of vata and rakta dosha. For treating vatarakta, Ayurveda recommends Vata hara and Rakta prasadaka measures. Treatment of vatarakta can be classified into 3 stages: 

1. Shodana/purification therapies
2. Shamana/Pacifying therapies 
3. Rasayana/Rejuvenating therapies

1.SHODANA CHIKITSA-

Shodhana is a purification therapy. In this procedure, aggravated Doshas are expelled out from the body and restores the equilibrium of Dosha.  

 RAKTAMOKSHANA (BLOOD-LETTING) 

• Blood-letting is considered to be the first line of treatment in severe cases of Raktavata.
• The aggravated vata creates obstruction to the channels of rakta in the afflicted regions.
• Bloodletting is most effective method to remove these obstructions. 
• Bloodletting using leeches is a common elimination therapy in Ayurveda. 
• Frequent raktamokshana in smaller amounts is done here. 

VIRECHAN/PURGATIVE THERAPY-

• Snehapana- Internal administration of medicated oil or ghee is done here. 
• This is done prior to other elimination therapies in order to prepare the body for the elimination. After the body is properly oleated, purgation is induced in the patient.
• Mrdu virechana (soft purgation) is indicated in vatarakta patient.
• Virchaka aushadh-Eranda taila, avipatikar choorna, etc.

 VASTI KARMA (ENEMA THERAPY)-

Vasti is considered as the ideal treatment for vata dosha.

 Type- 2 type

1. Asthapana  Vasti-

It is known as niruha or yapana basti.

In this procedure, vatashamaka and pitashamaka medicated decoctions are administered into anal canal. E.g.-Ksheera vasti 

 2.Anuvasana Vasti–

 Administration of medicated oils for enema which is vatahara and pittahara in nature.

 E.g Balataila, madhuyasti taila, ksheerabala taila, etc.

2. SHAMANA CHIKITSA-

The extremely aggravated doshas are eliminated by shodhana therapy and remaining doshas are pacified here. 

Palliative is further classified to

• Bahya Chikitsa

• Dhanyamladhara
• Kashayadhara
• Choornapinda Sweda
•  Patrapinda Sweda
•  Vestana
•  Pradeha
• Abhyanga( Pinda taila, madhuyasti taila, bala taila, ksheerabala taila, etc. are used)

• Abyanatara Chikitsa

Kashayam-

• Kokilaksha kashayam
• Patolakaturohinyadi kashayam
• Manjistadi kashayam
• Tiktakam kashayam

Tablets-

• Amrita Guggulu
• Kaishora Guggulu
• Punarnavadi Guggulu

 Choorna –

• Avipathi choorna
• Hinguastakam choornam
• Amrita choornam
• Shaddharanam choornam

  Asavaristas–

• Dashamoolarista
• Dathryarista, asokarista

3. RASAYANA CHIKITSA-

Rejuvenating treatments provides nourishment to the joints. Also they restore the natural strength and vitality of the body. 

A. BAHYA CHIKITSA (EXTERNAL)-

 Shastika shalipinda Sweda-

 In this procedure, Shastika shaali rice is prepared in milk processed with herbal medicines is made into poultices (upanaha) and rubbed on the affected body part, this gives nutrition and strength to the region.

Uro, Greeva, Kati or Janu Vasti- 

• Involves specially prepared warm herbalaised oil being poured and retained inside flour dough boundary kept in the thorax, back of neck, lower back, knees, respectively for 40 to 45 minute. 
• It gives strengths the muscles and connective tissue.
• Basti lubricates the joints and also makes them more flexible. 
• Dhanwantaram tailam, Mahanarayanatailam can be used.

 Nasyam-

• In this procedure, medicated oils are administered into both nostrils. 
• Nasya karma improves the functioning of the nervous system
• E.g.- Ksheerabala taila, Anutailam etc.

 Parisheka-

1. A procedure in which warm made out of specific herbs is poured with a specific vessel from a certain height in rhythmic manner and is rubbed into the body.
2. Again act as nourishing in nature.

B. ABHYANTARA CHIKITSA-

• Grithayogas (Ghee) such as guduchigruta, satavatigruta, amruthaprasham etc. can be used.
• Avalehas such as chyavanaprasam, mudhusnuhirasayanam
• Vardhamana pippali Rasayana is an ideal choice in vatarakta.

BEST HERBS FOR VATARAKTA–

• Kokilaksha (Asteracantha longifolia)
• Guduchi (Tinospora cordifolia) 
• Hareetaki (Terminalia chebula) 
• Aragwada (Cassia fistula)
• Ashwattha (Ficus religiosa) 
• Trivrit (Operculina turpethum) 
• Shunti (Zingiber officinale)
• Guggulu (Commiphora mukul)

• Cholesterol- It is a waxy, fat (lipid) like substance present in the blood. The body needs cholesterol to build up healthy cells, but high levels of cholesterol can develop fatty deposits in your blood vessels and increases the risk of heart disease.
• Cholesterol in normal state is beneficial for the body to function properly.
• Normal Cholesterol Levels- For a healthy Adult the normal level of Total cholesterol levels should be <200 milligrams per deciliter (mg/dl). A reading between 200 and 239 mg/dl is considered borderline high and a reading of 240 mg/dl and above is considered high.
• LDL cholesterol levels – <100 mg/dl
• Keep your cholesterol levels in check; it can be detected by a blood test.
• It generally has no symptoms so diet and lifestyle modification along with some Ayurveda medication can get your Cholesterol level back to normal levels.

Ayurveda Concept of Cholesterol

Ayurveda basically works on the root cause of the problem.

• According to Ayurveda “Mandagni” or “low digestive fire” is the root cause of all the diseases.
• “Agni” or the digestive fire is the term used for defining all the bodily metabolic activities.
• From the ayurvedic perspective the metabolic processes maintain the normal quantity, quality, and functions of the Doshas and Dhatus or tissues.
• The ama or toxins in the fat tissue, produces the harmful kind of cholesterol or bad cholesterol. Ama or toxins can block the channels of the body because these toxins are sticky, foul-smelling waste product of improper digestion.
• These toxins start to spread throughout the body if not cleared from the system further mixes with the fat tissue and giving rise to the problems like high cholesterol, heart diseases, and rise in blood pressure.
• In Ayurveda, Ama or harmful toxin is the primary cause of all metabolic disorders. 
• Cholesterol is considered as a product that formed due to the metabolic weakening in the GI tract (Koshta) and fat tissue (Meda).

Managing High Cholesterol with the help of Ayurveda

The Ayurvedic approach to hypercholesterolemia involves methods to increase the digestive fire to digest the ama, regulating assimilation and elimination and controlling the causative factors. Many herbs are used for the management of Meda dhatu.

CAC SPECIAL MEDICATION FOR A HEALTHY CHOLESTEROL LEVELS

MANAGE CHOLESTEROL REGAIN LONGEVITY WITH AYURVEDA

• Detox Premium Powder
• Active Plus Tablet
• Cholesterol care Tablet
• Trikatu syrup 
• Liver care tablet
• Herbal Tea

HOW DOES THIS MEDICINES WORK?

• These medications consist of the ingredients which show multiple actions in the body to regain your healthy life and good for overall health.
• It works on the root cause and balances the imbalanced doshas in the body.
• It balances the Medo dhatu and corrects the digestive fire.
• Eliminates Ama or the harmful toxins out of the body.
• Increases the Good cholesterol and eliminates the Bad Cholesterol.

Ayurveda Dietary Measures-

1. One should follow the kapha-pacifying diet. One should avoid Packaged fatty food, processed foods, Cheese, high-fat milk or yogurt. 
2. Intakes of Low glycemic index diet or low sugar diet i.e. avoid consumption of sweets and cold foods and drinks.
3. Garlic is said to be the most effective in preventing high cholesterol. Mix together one clove of fresh garlic chopped finely, half teaspoon grated ginger root and half teaspoon lime juice; eat this mixture before each meal you take through the day.
4. Drink a tea made of one teaspoon cinnamon and one-fourth teaspoon of the herbal mixture Trikatu. Steep it for 10 minutes in a cupful of water; add one teaspoon honey and drink. Take it about twice a day.
5. Taking half teaspoon trikatu with one teaspoon honey, two to three times a day, is good for burning ama (digestive fire) and excess kapha, further helping regulate cholesterol.
6. Another herb that has been known to effectively manage cholesterol levels in the body is chitrak-adhivati.
7. Drink one cup of hot water mixed with honey. This will help to ‘scrape’ off the fat from your system and reduce cholesterol levels. You could also add one teaspoon of lime juice or 10 drops of apple cider vinegar to make the drink more effective.
8. Include more millets, quinoa, oatmeal, wheat, apples, grapefruit, and almonds to reduce cholesterol.
9. Make sure you engage in physical activities to regulate cholesterol.

Don’t forget to eat a healthy diet and lead a right lifestyle to ensure healthy cholesterol levels.

Why CAC?

• All the medication is prepared in reference with the Ancient Ayurveda texts.
• The product is 100% natural and organic which is safe to use.
• It is formulated under the guidance of skilled MD Doctors.
• Experience based medication of more than 100 years.
• Regaining longevity and providing good health.
• We provide proper Diet and lifestyle changing measures. 

What is arthritis?

Arthritis or sandhivata is inflammation of the joint and bones. The main symptoms are pain, inflammation and stiffness. Usually arthritis is a condition experienced in adults over the age of 65 but it can also develop in children, teens, and younger adults. Arthritis is more common in women than men. Arthritis causes inflammation or the tearing of cartilage and makes the bones rub against each other. This causes severe Arthritis pain and difficulty in moving the joint.

CLASSIFICATION OF ARTHRITIS-

The two most common types of Arthritis are-

1. Osteoarthritis 
2. Rheumatoid Arthritis. 

Other types include-

• Juvenile arthritis
• Psoriatic arthritis 
• Gout 
• Fibromyalia

SYMPTOMS OF ARTHRITIS-

• Angamarda (body ache)
• Aruchi (tastelessness/Anorexia)
• Trishna (Excessive thirst)
• Alasya (lethargyness)
• Gouravam ( heaviness in body)
• Jwara (fever)
• early morning stiffness in the joints
• pain in the joints ( similar to the pain as stung by a scorpion)
• Other symptoms such as constipation, indigestion, fullness of abdomen, lack of sound sleep

 AYURVEDIC TREATMENTS FOR ARTHRITIS-

• VIRECHAN KARMA /PURGATIVE THERAPY–

• Virechan is a part of Panchakarma therapy and is effective against the disorders associated with Pitta. 
• Therapeutic purgation is the cleansing process for Pitta and the purification of the blood toxins from the body that are accumulated in the liver and intestines.
• It completely cleanses the gastro intestinal tract, gallbladder, and liver. 
• The patient first undergoes Oleation (Snehana) and Sudation (Swedana) therapies with the administration of medicated ghritams.
• Which bring vitiated vata Doshas to the Next, the patient is subjected to Purgation after assessing the condition. 
• This karma mainly aims to eliminate Pitta doshas that cannot be expelled out by Vaman karma. 
• This is relieved by the use of Ayurvedic laxatives.
• The patient then experiences frequent bowel movement indicating the effect of the dose and the removal of Doshas through anal route. 
• After the therapy, the patient is required to observe fasting and then take a light diet.
• Purgation therapy detoxifies the body and treats numerous health problems like Arthritis, Gout, Skin disorders, Cardiac disorders, Jaundice, Gallstone, Obesity, and Allergies.

• ABHYANGAM/ MASSAGE-

• Abhyangam is a relaxing full body massage with herbaliazed oils. 
• Massage therapy lubricates the joints and improves the tone of the muscles.
• It also supporting the joints by strengthening them.
• Abhyangam improves blood circulation and promotes the quick removal of metabolic wastes to reduce inflammatory pain caused due to Arthritis.
• Two therapists apply medicated oils all over the body of the patient in seven different positions by applying strokes and pressure in a synchronised manner for 45-50 minutes.
• The rhythmic motion reduces the stiffness in muscles and joints.
• abhayangam balances the vitiated Doshas and also cures  the whole body Physically, Mentally and Emotionally. 
• Abhyangam treats health problems like Spondylosis, Paralysis, Insomnia, Arthritis, and also boosts Immunity and provides general well-being.

• BASTI/MEDICATED ENEMA- 

• Enema is a most essential part of Panchakarma procedures.
• It cleanses the colon wherefrom numerous vata problems arise including Arthritis.
• In this therapy, oil enema (Sneha basti) or decoction enemas (kashaya basti)  is administered through the rectum. 
• This method is used to relieve all vata disorders such as Arthritis, Gout, Rheumatism, Headaches, and Muscle spasm, acidity, diarrhoea, constipation, kidney stones, chest pain, backache etc.
• basti having broader therapeutic action on almost all the tissues of the body and have rejuventive , curative, preventive and health promotive actions.
• Basti karma causes the flushing out of toxins and Vata Doshas from the body.
• Basti karma is good for Sexual disorders, Kidney stones, Heart pain, Constipation, and Sciatica pain etc.

• UPANAHA /POULTICE-

• Upanaham is an effective Ayurvedic therapy for joint pains caused due to Arthritis. 
• It nourishes the tissues and treats OsteoArthritis and also subsides the swelling and localised pain resulted from joint injuries.
• The therapy involves the application of warm and natural herbaliazed paste which is then covered with pain-relieving herbal leaves and finally bandaged with a cotton cloth. 
• This bandage is then removed after a few hours.
  It improves blood circulation, promotes healing process and strengthens the muscles. 
• Poultice gives relief from the Arthritic Joint Pain and inflammation. 

RISK FACTORS

Family history–

Your genes can make you more susceptible to environmental factors that may trigger arthritis.

Age-

The risk of many types of arthritis — including osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis and gout — increases with age.

Sex- 

Women are more likely than men to develop rheumatoid arthritis.

Overweight and Obesity– 

People who are obese are more prone to risk of developing arthritis.

Occupation 

Excessive smoking

Previous Joint injuries

BEST HERBS FOR ARTHRITIS-

• Boswellia serrata (Indian frankincense)
• Garlic (allium sativum)
• Ginger (Gingiber officinale) 
• Eranda tail (Ricinus communis)
• Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera)
• Thunder god vine (Tripterygium wilfordii) 
• Cat’s claw
• Turmeric
• Aloe vera 
• Eucalyptus

FOODS TO AVOID-

• Drinking alcohol
• Avoiding late-night or late-afternoon naps
• Eating spicy foods
• Excessive  salt
• Avoiding exposure to cold breezes
• Intake of too many sour, sweet, or sugary foods
• Eating uncooked foods
• Eating foods that cause acid reflux

Highlights-

• Fasting is highly essential to boost the digestion of Ama. Fasting can either be complete or be partial.
• Light exercises should complement the daily Ayurvedic treatments. 
• Liberal intake of fruit juices that are rich in Vitamin C will help enhance the effectiveness of the Ayurvedic anti-arthritis treatments. Vitamin C is highly essential to reduce skeletal pain.
• Commiphora mukul, commonly known as Guggal, is a highly effective herb to cure arthritis. 

INTRODUCTION-

Ayurveda is an ancient Indian medical science, which offers various regimens including Dinacharya (daily regimen), Ritucharya (seasonal regimen), Panchakarma (five detoxification therapies), and Rasayana (rejuvenation) therapies.

 These are most significant to maintain a healthy and happy psychological perspective.  Ayurveda does not give instant relief from diseases but it goes down to the root cause of diseases, thus ensuring there is no relapse of disease. The mainstay of Ayurveda, which makes this possible, is Panchkarma which detoxify the body internally as well as externally.

CAUSE OF DISEASE-

According to Ayurveda, the root cause of any disease is always the doshas imbalance, or body humors, which further manifests as imbalance in other body components inevitably leading to disease.

• Prajnaparadh (Misuse of intellect)
• Asatmendriyartha samyoga (Misuse of senses)
• Parinama or kala (Seasonal variations)

CLASSIFICATION OF DISEASE-

Ayurveda classifies disease according to its origin- 

• Physical
• Psychological 
• Spiritual.

STAGES OF DISEASE MANIFESTATION-

In ayurveda science stages of diseases manifestation are six which mentioned below-

1. Sanchayaavastha- The stage of accumulation
2. Prakopaavastha-The stage of aggravation
3. Prasaraavastha– The stage of migration
4. Sthana Sanshrayaavasth-The stage of disease augmentation
5. Vyaktaavastha-The stage of symptom manifestation 
6. Bhedaavastha- The stage of complications 

The three traditional approaches to curing diseases in Ayurveda science are as follows:

• Daivavyapasraya Chikitsa/Spiritual therapy
• Sattvavajaya Chikitsa/Mental & Physical therapy
• Yuktivyapasraya Chikitsa/ Rational treatment

YUKTIVYAPASRAYA CHIKITSA-

Rational treatment includes two main modalities named  Shamana (palliation) and Shodhana (purification). yuktivyapasraya chikitsa is directed towards restoring the balance of the tridoshas.

Ayurveda uses three main modalities in the treatment are as follows:

• Samana– To palliate care or  manage the disease 
• Shodhana- To eliminate the cause of disease or Panchkarma therapy or bio cleansing
• Nidana parivarjana- Avoidance of causative factors

1. SAMANA CHIKITSA-

• Samana means to Supress, Reduces or eliminates symptoms.
• Samana therapies make the patient feel better by suppressing the effects of the body accumulated AMA (toxins).
• Samana involves neutralising the toxins (Aama) by activating Agni and stimulating the digestion through fasting.
• if do not eliminate toxins , the source of disease, and change the diet and life style that created it, the symptoms will continue to manifest.
• However, samana does not deal directly with root causes of the disease and thus can never effect a complete cure.
• Example- when a person feel headache, he takes aspirin to reduce the pain. He feels better but not curing the root cause of headache. In this case to take aspirin is the Samana therapy-without work on root cause will try to suppress or eliminate the symptoms.
• Sustained hunger and thirst, exercise, sunbathing and sitting in the fresh air are other means of neutralizing toxins.

2. SHODHANA CHIKITSA-

• Shodhana means to go away.
• The cause of disease will to go away from body and detoxify it.
• The aim of treatment is to give relief to the patient and treat root cause of disease.
• Shodhana chikitsa get rids of Ama and Mala- the form of toxins and restores balance to the doshas.
• It’s consider as and their cause as well.
• Panchkarma constitutes the foremost shodhana chikitsa/ purification (Detox) Therapy in Ayurveda.
• It reverses the disease mechanisms which carry toxic waste products from the digestive tract in to the tissues of the body. 
• This procedure should be done in Prasara and Sthana Sanshraya awastha of disease.
• 3rd and 4th stages are initial accumulation of toxins in gastrointestional tract and toxins taking shelter in a body.
• The perfect treatment is to find the root cause of disease is purification therapy. Then only can cure the disease

 PANCHKARMA THERAPY-

There are certain diseases that require a physical treatment to remove toxins from the body. Ayurveda suggests the Panchkarma or ‘five types of bio-cleansing processes’. These five processes are as follows:

1. Vamana karma (Emesis therapy) – 

• Therapeutic vomiting, also known as medical emesis or medical vomiting is one of the five Pradhana Karmas of Panchakarma which is used in treating Kapha diseases. 
• The procedure has been carried out in kapha kala (Basant ritu)  to expelled out kapha in toxic form, which causes major diseases such as  skin disorders, ILD, Lungs fibrosis, asthma, hypothyroidism, hearts disorders, chronic rhinitis.

2. Virecana karma –

• Therapeutic purgation is the cleansing process for Pitta and the purification of the blood toxins from the body that are accumulated in the liver and intestines; it completely cleanses the gastro intestinal tract. 
• This karma mainly aims to eliminate Pitta doshas that cannot be expelled out by Vaman karma. This is relieved by the use of Ayurvedic laxatives.

3. Nasya (Nasal Medication) – 

Medicines administred through the nostrils An excess of the tridoshas accumulating in the forehead, throat, nose and nasal area, etc. is relieved by introducing medication through the nose.

4. Basti karma-

• The medicated oil or herbal decoction is administered through the rectum. 
• This method is used to relieve all vata disorders such as acidity, diarrhoea, constipation, kidney stones, chest pain, backache etc.
• basti having broader therapeutic action on almost all the tissues of the body and have rejuventive , curative, preventive and health promotive actions.

5. Raktamokshana –

• The bloodletting procedure is used especially for the treatment of Raktadusti The vitiated blood should be expelled out from the body to reduce the amount of toxic sub- stances or else it leads to several blood borne disorders. 
• This method is most useful in treating skin and joint disorders.

 These five-fold therapies are aimed at shodhana, i.e. complete removal of the basic cause of the disease by bio-cleansing and progress towards samana i.e. reducing severity of the disease by taking palliative care.

3. NIDAN PARIVARJAN

• Nidan Parivarjan is to avoid the known disease causing factors in diet and lifestyle of the patient.
• It also encompasses the idea to refrain from precipitating or aggravating factors of the disease.
• A healthy person should follow the right dincharya (daily routine), adapt to seasonal changes and eat a nutritious diet to avoid any disease.

The basic difference between Ayurveda and Western allopathic medicine is important to understand. Western allopathic medicine currently tends to focus on symptomatic treatment. Ayurveda does not focus on symptoms of disease, it works root cause of diseases.

INTRODUCTION –

 Ayurveda – The science of life,that originated with the need to understand  and cure diseases and to maintain the health of the human being.

For the completion of this hetu , Linga (symptoms) and Aushadha (medicine) i.e. concept of Trisutra is explained  in Ayurveda of these three sutras two are meant for diagnosis of disease and the third one is meant for treatment purpose. For treatment of any disease it is very important to make proper diagnose of the disease. Nidana panchaka is very important  tool for making diagnosis of diseases in Ayurveda.

CLINICAL IMPORTANCE OF NIDANA PANCHAKA

In Ayurveda the diagnostic approach is of two types  which consists of Rogi Pariksha and roga pariksha. In which Rogi preeksha gives us knowledge about diseased person. In this we examine the patient with different tools And roga pariksha gives us   complete knowledge about a disease from  starting  to complete manifestation of disease.

 In Ayurveda there are five means of diagnosis known is nidanpanchak i.e. 

Nidan- Causative factors 

Purvarupa – Pre- symptomatic features

Rupa – Sign & Symptoms of disease

Upshaya- Relieving and Aggravating factors 

 Samprapti- Pathogenesis of disease.

 These five factors gives information not only  about complete process of menifestation of disease but also about prognosis, treatment and differential diagnosis of the disease. 

In Modern science diagnosis of the disease is done by using investigations and imaging techniques like X-Ray, CT scan, MRI  But sometimes the patient can’t afford the costly imagining techniques like CT scan, MRI etc. Thus we have to know the diagnosis parameters according to Ayurveda which helps in reducing the burden on the suffering patients .

 In Ayurveda there are five means of diagnosis (Nidana Panchaka) namely Nidana (cause or etiology), Purvarupa (Prodromal symptoms or Premonitory symptoms), Rupa (Specific sign and symptoms or clinical features), Upasaya (Relieving and Aggravating factors), Samprapti (Pathogenesis) . These five elements collectively or selectively help in making the accurate diagnosis.

Explaination of Nidana Panchaka –

A) Nidana (Etiological factors):

“Tatranidanmkaranmiyuktamagre”.

Nidana is the causative factors of disease. 

Clinical importance of Nidana –  

Knowledge of Nidana helps in identifying the causes of the disease –  If the Nidana is not identified we can’t isolate them. If the causative factors are in contact with the body for a longer time, the disease caused by them keeps worsening with time and become incurable.

 Nidana gives a clue towards the chronicity of the disorder- For e.g. If the patient having liver cirrhosis has a history of consumption of alcohol for long time, we can assume  that the disease is a chronic one .

 Knowledge of Nidana helps in rectifying the causative factors causing the disease – as it is said in ayurveda 

‘Sankshepataha Kriya Yogo Nidana Parivarjanam’  .

 The best and simplest form of the treatment is avoiding the causative factors, which are responsible for disease.

B) Purvarupa (Prodromal features): 

The symptoms which give indication of a future disease are known as prodromal symptoms.

”pragutpattilakshanam”

 These prodromal features helps to know the dosha responsible for that particular disease but not the nature of forthcoming disease. Basically there are two types of puravrupa, one which indicate the forthcoming disease but doesn’t specify the involvement of dosha is known as samanya purvarupa (general prodromal symptoms). Second variety of puravrupa is known as vishishta (specific) purvarupa, in which appearance of prodromal symptoms observed specifically by specific dosha. Clinical importance of Puravarupa

 For diagnosis of disease – If two diseases are having identical Nidana, then Purvarupa help in making correct diagnosis. For eg. Nidana of Hikka (Hiccup) and Swasa (Dyspnea) are identical. Here disease will be diagnosed in its Purvarupa avastha (Stage) with the help of specific prodromal symptoms such as heaviness in throat and chest, astringent taste in mouth and gurgling sound in abdomen are the prodromal symptoms of Hikka while hardness in bowel, pain in sides, compression in cardiac region, miss passage of vital breath are prodromal symptoms of Swasa.

 For differential diagnosis – E.g. If the color of the urine is either yellow or mixed with blood eliminated through the urine without the manifestation of prodromal symptoms and sign of Prameha (Diabetes), such patient should not be diagnosed as Prameha rogi (Diabetes), on other hand it diagnosed as Raktapitta (Bleeding disorder).

 For treatment of disease – With the help of knowing puravrupa of disease we can detect the disease at an earlier (i.e. before the actual manifestation of disease) stage and plan for treatment can be started to prevent further manifestation of disease. E.g. In Jwara, Langhana chikitsa is indicated in Purvarupa and in Ashmari, Snehadi karma is indicated in puravrupa avastha to cure the disease from root .   

For prognosis of disease – If number of prodromal symptoms is few, then the disease is easily curable. If Purvarupa manifest with moderate intensity then disease is krichhasadhya (difficult to cure). If all  prodromal features are present in a patient then the disease is incurable.

C) Rupa (Specific sign and symptoms):

“Pradurbhutalakshanampunarlingam”

 Rupa of a disease indicate the actual onset of the manifestation process. The pathogenesis gives rise to various symptoms of the disease. Hence the pathogenesis (Dosha dushya sammurcchhana) occurring inside the body is expressed externally as the symptoms of that disease . i.e. It indicates the specific disease by manifesting specific symptoms of that disease. For e.g excessive unclean urination in Prameha (Diabetes).

 Clinical importance of Rupa 

For diagnosis of disease Few diseases have no prodromal symptoms like Vata vyadhi , Ksataksheena and their diagnosis is made only by observing its clinical feature (i.e. In Rupaavastha). By seen the cardinal sign and symptoms of disease we can diagnose the disease. 

 For differential diagnosis of disease – By observing the signs – symptoms and detailed history of patient we can diagnose the disease which has similar sign and symptoms. E.g. Cough and Tuberculosis, Annadravasoola (Pain is aggravate after intake of food) and Parinamadravasoola (Pain is relief after intake of food) only few symptoms are common. 

For treatment of disease – Knowledge of Rupa is very much important for planning specific treatment of disease. As some diseases have only symptometic treatment. 

For prognosis of disease – If all the symptoms of disease are produced, then that disease is difficult to cure.

D) Upasaya (Relieving and Aggravating factors):

When a patient is relieved of symptoms and feel comfortable by the diet, daily regimen and medicine, then these relieving factors are called as Upasaya. The relief should not be temporary. The symptoms should be reduced permanently. E.g. Cold water gives relief to thirst and burning sensation in case of Nava jwara for a short period but later aggravate the condition. This doesn’t come under upasaya. And opposite to this, the aggravating factors are called as Anupasaya. 

Clinical importance of Upasaya

 For diagnosis of disease-

‘goodhlingamvyadhiupshyaanupshyabhyamparikshet’

 Relieving factors helps in making correct diagnosis, when it is difficult to diagnose a disease due to obscure or mysterious manifestation. Then by the use of aggravating or relieving factors we can diagnose the disease. E.g. In obstructive jaundice the medicine “Trikatu powder” will give relief. But if it is not an obstructive jaundice then the symptoms will aggravate due to hot and sharp property of the medicine.   

 For treatment of disease – This upasaya and anupasaya also help in treatment of disease.  Acharaya chakrapani mentioned 18 types of upshaya for treating diseases .

E) Samprapti (Pathogenesis):

 The changes which take place in the body from initiation of the etiological factors to the manifestation of symptoms are collectively known as Samprapti (Pathogenesis). The Dosha vitiated due to various causes are moving in various directions in the body. Depending upon the cause or type of vitiation and direction or route followed by the vitiated doshas, there is a settlement (Dosha-dushya sammurchchhana) at the defective site (kha-vaigunya).

Samprapti is of six type  i.e Samkhya, Pradhanya, Vidhi, Vikalpa, Bala, Kala samprapti

CONCLUSION –

 In Ayurveda it is said that before the planning of treatment, the correct diagnosis of the disease is very much essential which means a physician must examine the disease thoroughly before prescribing medicine. Nidana panchaka is a tool for diagnosing a disease at various stages. Naming of disease is not given that much importance, but knowing the definite etiological factors, dosha vitiation, pathogenesis or progress of disease and to check it at early stage is given prime importance.  In modern concept of medicine, treatment of a disease starts after actual appearance of a disease. But in Ayurveda, good knowledge of nidan panchak can help the physician to diagnose the disease in early phase , accordingly one can decide his line of treatment and prevent further manifestation  of disease.

Nasya is one among the panchkarma procedures. In nasya karma medicines are administered in the body by the nasal route. In ayurveda definition of nasya karma is given as –

Aushdhi v aushdhisidhasneham nasikabhyam diyte iti nasyam

 In  nasya karma  medications (Medicated Oil/Ghee/ Decoction/ Powder/Smoke etc.) is administered by Nasa (Nose) mainly to remove the vitiated Dosha found in Shira and its constituent parts. As in Ayurveda it is said that that –

‘Nasa hi shirso dwaram ‘

Acharyas  have been placed  Nasya  as one of the Panchkarma procedures, which signify the importance of Nasya  as  Shodhana Karma (Purification procedure) especially for Urddhva-jatrugata Vikara (diseases which related to the upper clavicle part of the body). In panchakarma procedures doshas or the impurities are removed from the body through its nearest route like to remove impurites from  amashya (stamach) vaman is indicated, for detoxification of pakvashyagata dosha (intestines) procedures of virechana and basti   are useful like ways for detoxification of doshas collected in  shira, nasya karma is used.

Types of Nasya– Based on different type of medications used and procedures used to administration  nasya karma is into five types-

1. Navan – Snehan and shodhan
2. Avpidna- Shodhan and stambhan
3. Dhoompan- Smoking using herbs
4. Pradhooman- Prayogika, snehika, virechanika
5. Pratimarsha- snehaniya and virechanika

Above mentioned types of nasya karma again classified into three types based upon their mode of actions-

Rechana- In this medicines are administered for purifiction

Tarpana – for nourishment

Shaman – for retraining

Medication used in nasya karma-

Medicines used in nasya karma are totally dependent upon the purpose of giving nasya – In vata realted disorders like in headaches, migrain and for nurturing, medicated oil or ghrit are used. In Kapha related disorders, drugs that cause some irritation and releives the blockage of channels are used. Acharaya charak has mentioned shirovirechana gana that contains herbs which clearifies  the  channels used in detoxification .

Sirovirecanopag mahakashya contains drugs – Jyotishmati, Kshavaka, Maricha, Pippali, Vidanga, Shigru, Sarshapa, Apamarga, Shveta, Mahashveta

 Indications of nasya karma– 

– Stiffness or pain of head,neck, or jaw
– Headache and Migraine
– Sinus pain and congestion
– Toothache, loose teeth, receding gums
– Hoarseness of voice
– Twitching or drooping eyelids
– Tingling sensations on face
– Obstruction in throat
– Uvulitis, Tonsillitis, Laryngitis, Pharyngitis

– Speech disorders and loss of speech
– Bell’s Palsy (facial paralysis)
– Goiter
– Glaucoma
– Pituitary or space-occupying tumor
– Unconsciousness/fainting
– Any disorders above clavicle area

Contraindications  of nasya procedures

 – Children (under 7)
– Old age (over 80)
– Pregnancy
– Menstruation
– Just before or after shower/bath
– Indigestion or full stomach
– Diarrhea
– Hunger or Hypoglycemia
– Thirst or Dehydration
– Exertion
– Intoxication
– Physical exercise
– Acute fever
– Just having done virechana procedure or basti

Nasya Procedure–

In Ayurveda every panchakarma procedure consists of three main procedure like ways the procedure of Nasya can be classified under three headings-

1. Poorvakarma 

Poorvakarma includes  facial oil massage or application of steam to face, forehead, head, ears and neck. This helps to loosen the adhesive Doshas.

2. Pradhanakarma 

This is the main step of Nasya and includes instillation of luke warm medication in both the nostrils  alternately, by keeping his neck straight, with the help of proper instrument like dropper.The sole, shoulder, neck, ear and palm are gently massaged after the administration of the medicine.

3. Paschatkarma

In this procedure patients mouth is cleaned by giving luke warm water for gargles and then medicated smoke is given for inhalation.

 Mode of action of  Nasya karma-

The medicines  in nasya karma  administered through the nostrils goes  into the nervous system (Brain) and venous system (Blood circulation) present in and around the nostrils. Then they clear the obstruction in the nearby area. Thus it relieves the blockage of the channels in that area and the diseases are cured. Medicated oils / juices / powders which are administered through the nostrils  stimulate the vital centres of brain to overcome diseases.  

When nasya karma is done three types features are seen according to quantity given to patient-

1. Samyak Yog Lakshan: When medicines are given in proper quantity. 

“Urah Shiro Laghavam Indriyaatacchayam Stroto Vishudhi Bhavet Vishudhe” 

 There is feeling of lightness in the chest region and head,

All the five Gyanendriya work in a proper manner 

 All body channels are open and clear in case of Samyak Yog Lakshan. 

2. Ayog Lakshan:  Medicines are given in less quantity then required.

“Galoplepah Shirso Gurutvam Nishtheevanam Cha Api Ath Durvirikte

There is feeling of something covering the throat,

 Heaviness in head and 

Excessive salivation

3. Atiyog Lakshan: In this , medicines are given in more quantity then required.

“Shiro Akshi Shankh Shravan Arti Todav Atyarth Shudham Timiram Ch Pashyet”  

Pricking pain in head, eyes, temporal region, ears

Cataract 

 Benefits of Nasya Karma-

Nasya is the procedure that  cleanses, purifies and strengthens the nasal passages, allowing you to breathe fully and easily again. Due to its many benefits nasya karma is indicated in all type of upper clavicle disorders ( urdhav jatrugata vikara) 

In vata related disorders medicated oil is administered into nostrils to strengthened the nervous systems and in kapha related disorder powder of medicated herbs is administered which does the  purification of  the srotas .

Nasya is a procedure that has to be performed with very  care . The quality and quantity of the medicines that to be used depend upon the patient’s condition. The procedure of nasya karma has to be done by a trained professional .  Nasya therapy will cleanse, purify, and strengthen the nasal passages and  stimulates centres  in nervous systems.