Stroke is defined as when a blood vessels in the brain rupture or bleed. It is caused by when there is blockage in the blood supply to the brain. Without oxygen brain cells and tissue become damaged and begin to die within minutes.

TYPES OF STROKE:

1. TRANSIENT ISCHAEMIC ATTACK : It is caused by a temporary disruption in the blood supply to part of the brain . It usually last for few minutes.
2. ISCHEMIC STROKE : It is caused by when a blood clot blocks or narrows an artery leading to brain a blood clot is formed in arteries damaged by build up of plaques.
3. HEMORRHAGIC STROKE : It occurs when a blood vessels in  the brain or on the surface of brain leak or breaks that cause  bleeding in or around the brain .and this will lead  to swelling and pressure which can damage cells and tissue in the brain.

ANOTHER CLASSIFICATION:

1.EMBOLIC STROKE:  It is caused by a blood clot that forms elsewhere in the body and travels through the bloodstream to the brain.
2. SUBARACHNOID STROKE: Bleeding in the space  that surrounds around the  brain.
3. INTRACEREBRAL STROKE: When blood suddenly burst into brain tissue causing damage to brain
4. THROMBOTIC STROKE:  Stroke caused by thrombus  that develop in the arteries supplying blood into brain

CAUSES OF STROKE:

• High blood pressure.
• Heart diseases
• Diabetes
• Physical in activity and obesity
• High cholesterol level.
• Excessive alcohol intake
• Lack of exercise
• Stress.

SYMPTOMS OF STROKE:

• Sudden lack of imbalance
• Temporary loss of basic muscle movement.
• Memory loss.
• Changes in mood and personality.
• Trouble walking.
• Slurred speech.
• Dizziness
• Aphasia
• Visual field defect.
• Vertigo
• Weakness in tongue
• Numbness of face, arm, leg.
• Headache
• Emotional problems.

PREVENTION OF STROKE:

1. Control Blood pressure.
2. Quitting tobacco use.
3. Eat a healthy diet
4. Exercise regularly
5. Avoid smoking and drinking too much alcohol.
6. Control diabetes.

RISK FACTORS FOR STROKE:

1. DIET : An unbalanced diet can increase the risk of stroke. It includes salt, saturated fats, transfat, cholesterol.
2. NO PHYSICAL ACTIVITY : Lack of exercise can increase the risk of stroke.
3. MORE INTAKE OF ALCOHOL : More intake of alcohol can lead to increase blood pressure levels. It can increase triglyceride level which can cause artherosclerosis.
4. USE OF TOBACCO : Nicotine increases the blood pressure and it damage the blood vessels.
5. FAMILY HISTORY : if someone in our family suffer from this disease, high blood pressure than it will increase the risk of stroke disease.
6. AGE : When older you are more likely to prone this disease.
7. SEX : It is more common in women as compare to men.

COMPLICATION OF STROKE:

• Loss of bladder control and bowel control.
• Pain in shoulder.
• Deep vein thrombosis
• Vasospasm
• Pneumonia
• Depression
• Dementia
• Reduced mobility , range of motion
• Bed sores.
• Sensory or sensation changes.
• Loss of muscle movement.
• Breathing difficulities.

AYURVEDIC APPROACH OF STROKE:

According to Ayurveda stroke is called as pakshaghata. It is caused by  the vitiation of vata dosha, which control the motor and sensory activities in body.

PANCHKARMA PROCEDURES :

1. Snehan (oleation)
2. Swedan (fomentation)
3. Shirodhara
4. Virechan (Purgation)
5. Basti
6. Nasya

HERBS GOOD FOR STROKE ARE:

• Ashwagandha
• Garlic
• Arjun
• Turmeric
• Gotu kola
• Bilberry

CHANDIGARH AYURVED CENTRE MEDICATION FOR THE TREATMENT OF STROKE:

1. Active Plus Tablet:

CAC active plus Tablet is 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. These tablets improves digestion, eliminates constipation, stress, nourishes brain,  acts as antioxidant, analgesic, anti-inflammatory, etc.

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

2. Heart Up Tablet:

Heart Up Tablet is a unique formulation and is very effective in the treatment of heart diseases and related symptoms. It acts as a cardioprotective and anti-arrhythmic medicine providing strength to the heart muscles and maintains heart rate. This medicine is very useful in relieving pain and maintains blood optimum viscosity.

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

3. Noni Capsule:

Noni capsule contain standardized extract of herb Noni (Morinda citrifolia) that is good for overall health of heart. These capsule deals with the blocked arteries of the heart. The formation of plaque is overcome with the use of these herbal capsules.

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

4. Nerve up tablet :

CAC Nerve up tablet is a herbo-mineral tablet and is purely ayurvedic formulation.  CAC Nerve up tablets help in balancing the vata doshas. It reduces kapha dosha, and 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. These contains natural vatahar properties and helps in curing vata diseases.

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

5. Kapha Balance tablet:

CAC Kapha tablet is a healthy blend of herbs formulated to balance Kapha doshas without aggravating Pitta and Vata doshas. It can also be used to alleviate any temporary Kapha imbalance. It is very effective in Kapha season that is late winter and spring. It consists of warming and astringent herbs that help to balance the system throughout the cold season. The main use of Kapha tablets is to remove excess Kapha doshas from the system and helps in the management of weight, healthy lungs, and the immune system.

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

The word dincharya is made up of two words dina + acharya. Dina means day and acharya means activity.  It is defined as an daily schedule  that promotes healthier life through daily activities.

BENEFITS OF DINCHARYA :

• It helps in balancing tridosha.
• It helps in digestion.
• It helps in to maintain discipline .
• It promotes healthier life , happiness, peace.

DOSHA CYCLE ACCORDING TO AYURVEDA:

1. 6-10 AM/PM : Kapha dosha
2. 10-2 AM/PM : Pitta dosha
3. 2-6 AM/PM : Vata dosha

ACTIVITIES FOLLOWED IN AYURVEDA:

1. BRAHMA MUHURTA :

Awakening in brahma muhurta kala it is approximately 96 minutes before sunrise when environment is calm and rich in oxygen supply . This is the time considered best for study purposes and increase the freshness of person. after awakening look at your hands and gently move on the face and chest. Brahma  chintan is done.

2. FACE WASHING :

It is done with fresh cool water to remove dirt’s from eyes , nose , mouth and face . It also relieves morning dullness. In winter luke warm water can be used.

3. USHNA JAL PAANA ( TAKING WATER ) :

1- 4 glasses of luke warm intake in the morning because it enhances peristalsis movement and flush the toxins and free radicals  from the kidney.

4. EXCREATION ( SOUCH NIVRITTI) :
   • Face towards the north direction.
   • should not speak .
   • Cover up head.Neither suppress nor initiate the urge.
   • .Wash and clean the anal region properly . and than wash the hands properly.
5. DANTADHAVAN ( BRUSHING TEETH AND TONGUE CLEAN ) :

Teeth should be cleaned with twigs that have bitter , pungent or astringent taste such as karanja, karavira , ark, neem, apamarga etc.

It should be done twice a day i.e Morning and before going to bed.

Toothbrush – 12 angulas , Tongue cleaner : 10 angulas.

Tongue cleaner is made up of gold ,silver ,copper, brass, zinc, tin or tree branches.

BENEFITS:

• Removal of vitiated kapha and bad breathe.
• Freshness and lightness in body.
• Appetite increase.

CONTRAINDICATION :

Indigestion , Vomiting , cough, fever, thirst, headache, hiccough, facial paralysis.

6. GARGLING( KAVALA AND GANDUSHA) :

It is defined as substance with bitter essence boiled in water are good for gargling . When it is moved in all direction is known as kavala and when it is not movable it is known as gandusha. It also help in drying of throat and chapping of lips., improve voice. It also increases appetite.

7. ANJANA ( COLLYRIUM) :

It should be used in morning and night time never used at night. It applies in lower lid of eye. After applying anjana close the eyes and rotate eye wall. Eye become clear and bright and it improve eyesight and cure eye diseases.

CONTRAINDICATION:

• After taking food or vamana and virechna procedures.
• Who has urge to urinate or stool .
• After taking head wash or bath .
• Who is suffering from grief , anger, sorrow .
• When there is cloudy weather or hot sun rays .

8. NASYA :

2-3 drops of medicated oil should be dropped in both nostrils in supine position with head slightly tilted backwards .

CONTRAINDICATION:

• pregnant women
• Virechna
• After taking food and water .

BENEFITS OF NASYA :

It helps in prevention of greying of hair , promote hair growth , locked jaw, migraine, pharyngitis, laryngitis, voice becomes soft and stable.

9. DHOOMAPANA :

It should be inhaled from mouth  and nostrils but exhale from mouth . it should be taken after brushing teeth, nasya karma , defecation and urination ,sneezing and vomiting.

BENEFITS: It strengthens the sense organs , make mind stable and teeth become strong .

CONTRAINDICATION:

• After virechna and basti karma.
• After sleepless night.
• When there is indigestion
• during anger grief or sorrow .

10. OIL MASSAGE:
    • Massage helps body stronger and soothens the skin. It pacifies the vitiated vata dosha .
    • It destroys premature aging , fatigue, wrinkles , roughness and dryness .
    • It induces sound sleep .
    • It induces calmness in mind .
11. VYAYAMA ( EXERCISE):

It should be continued when half of the strength is exhausted. Itleady strength and stability of body .

BENEFITS:

• Remove laziness
• Prevent obesity
• Feeling of lightness in body
• Increase the work efficiency.
• Increase appetite.

CONTRAINDICATION:

• children , old person and the person who hava vata dosha dominant.
• During hunger or thirst
• Heavy health workers
• Who are suffering from diseases like jwara , raktapitta, swasa , bhrama, tuberculosis .

12. UBATAN:

Medicated oil or powder is rubbed on skin is known as ubatan . It stimulates bhrajak pitta, enhance skin glow, remove wrinkles , face eyes become relaxed , ensure caqlmness in mind.

13. NAIL AND HAIR CARE:

Trimming the nail and hair at proper time. It ensures hygiene and freshness.

14. SNANA ( BATHING):
    • In lower body hot water bath is good
    • It is harmful for the eyes and hair if it is poured on head.
    • In winter season warm water is used.
    • Don’t go for bath after taking food.

BENEFITS:

• Remove body impurities
• Increase appetite
• Purifies blood
• Enhance energy and body strength.

15. CLOTHING :

• Dress must be clean and have descent look.
• Make the person personality.
• It promotes fame and happiness.
• White or light colored clothes in summer and dark or heavy clothes in summer .

16. GEMS AND ORNAMENTS:

• It provide nourishment
• It promotes life and provides energy and enthusiasm.
• Mind becomes cheerful and beautiful.
• Gems such as manikya, mukta, coral, emerald , zircon , neelam , vaidurya etc.

17. DIET:

It is important for maintain health . It should be taken in adequate quantity at appropriate tuime . Light easily digested food should be used according to season . half stomach filled with solid food , 1/4^th with liquids ,and rest 1/4^th is empty for air . contain all  six types of rasa .Take warm food in proper quantity . don’t take food very slowly or very fast.

18. RATRICHARYA:

• Avoid food , sex, study in the evening.
• Take light easily digestable food.
• After taking food walk for 100 steps
• Pray god before going to bed. Sleep in comfortable position.
• The direction of head in south or east.
• Go to sleep after 3 hours of sunset.

Pain in or around the spine below the head is known as Neck pain or Cervicalgia. The neck is also called as cervical spine. Neck pain is a symptom found in many different medical conditions and injuries.

The pain in neck can be acute or chronic and individual may have axial neck pain or radiating neck pain( pain shooting into shoulders or arms ). Most of the time it interfere with daily routine of individual and can reduce quality of life if not managed properly.

What are the causes of Neck pain?

Some of the factors that contributes in development of neck pain includes :

• Physical Strain : Overuse of neck muscles because of strenuous or repetitive activities tends to cause pain and stiffness in neck. Poor posture , heavier body weight and weal abdominal muscles can affect spine’s alignment and contribute in development of neck pain.
• Age: With age there is natural wear and tear causing parts of cervical spine to degenerate or deteriorate that causes pain there. Over the time with stress and repeated movements the disk in spine becomes weak causing pinched nerve or herniated disk which also causes neck pain and stiffness.
• Degenerative conditions : Conditions like spinal stenosis and osteoarthritis leads to pain in the neck.
• Injury : Any kind of trauma or injury damage muscles, disks, ligaments , vertebral joints and nerve root in spinal cord that can lead to pain and stiffness in neck .
• Mental Stress : Due to stress and anxiety many individual tightens the neck muscles which can cause neck stiffness and pain.
• Growths: Masses like cysts, tumors and bone spurs tends to put pressure on the nerves in neck that causes neck pain.
• Other Health Conditions : Certain health conditions like Rheumatoid arthritis, meningitis and cancer have neck pain as a symptom.

WHAT ARE THE SYMPTOMS OF NECK PAIN ?

Some individuals describe pain as :

• Burning or stabbing pain
• Persistent Ache
• Sharp shooting pain travelling from neck to shoulders or arms.

Other Symptoms that individual with neck pain experience :

• Stiffness in neck, upper back and shoulders.
• Headache
• Numbness or tingling sensations in shoulders or arms
• Unable to turn neck or tilt your head.

AYURVED APPROACH :

In Ayurved Neck pain can be correlated with Manyasthambha . Due to intake of  vata vitiating food, sleeping in day time, doing excessive physical activities etc causes the vitiating of the vata dosha . The aggravated vata travels toward the neck and get lodged in the neck muscles leading to development of the condition.

HERBS :

• Guggulu
• Rala
• Bala
• Rasna
• Bilva
• Ashwagandha
• Gokshura
• Shallaki
• Nirgundi
• Prishniparni

PANCHKARMA :

• Abhyanga
• Patra potali pind swedan
• Greeva Vasti
• Nasya
• Shashtika Shali pind swedan
• Lepam

CHANDIGARH AYURVEDIC CENTER MEDICATION FOR THE TREATMENT OF NECK 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 etc. This tablet helps in Backache, knee pain, headache, bronchitis, depression.

Recommended Dosage– Take 1 tablet twice daily.

2. Back Care Tablet:

CAC 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. Pain-O-Kill Oil:

This herbal oil provides good results in body pain, swelling, stiffness, & inflammation. Massage with this oil relieves pain, stiffness, & swelling. Pain-O-Kill oil is prepared from herbal ingredients like Jyotishmati, Kustha, Devdaru, Vatsnabh, Rasna, etc. These all ingredients show anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, & analgesic properties. The antioxidant nature removes all toxins out from the body. Anti-inflammatory & analgesic properties reduce inflammation & pain in the body.

Method of Application: Take few drops of oil in your hands after that gently massage over the affected area of your body pain.

4. Pain–O-Kill Syrup:

It is an herbal remedy that helps to get relief from the severe pain which is associated with cervical spondylitis. It includes ingredients like- Hadjod stem, Ashwagandha root, Shalaki gum, Suranjan sweet gum, Punarnava root, Methi seeds, Nirgundi leaves, Garlic bulb, etc. This syrup helps in reducing the stiffness & rejuvenates the body tissues. It helps to improve muscle tone. This syrup has a good result in reducing the inflammation.

Recommended Dosage – Take 2 teaspoonfuls twice a day before meal with normal water.

5. Panchsakar Churna:

Panchsakar Churna is an Ayurvedic formulation that consists of five ingredients named as – Saindhav Lavana, Swarnapatri, Shatapushpa, Shunti, and Balaharitaki. It is naturally detoxifying, thus it removes the toxins from the body. This churna is mainly beneficial in cases of disc prolapsed, cervical pain, lower back pain, ligament sprain, neck stiffness, sprain in muscle, tendons. Panchsakar churna helps to relax the muscles around the neck and also reduces the inflammation.

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

6. Detox Premium Powder:

These herbal sachets are prepared from ingredients such as  Sutshekhar ras, Parwal pishti, Shukta pishti, Giloy, Kamdudha ras, Shwet parpati that gives calming effect on the stomach. These sachets have anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and antacid like properties. It mainly affects in lowering the pitta dosha of the body and maintains proper digestion of the body.

Recommended Dosage:Take one sachet twice daily with normal water.

It is the property of substance or treatment that reduces inflammation or swelling . Anti inflammatory agents block certain substances in the body that cause inflammation .

WHAT IS INFLAMMATION:

Inflammation is a part of body defense   mechanism . It is primarily governed   by immune system   which dispatches white blood cells to the affected sites    in redness or swelling. It plays a role in healing process .

TYPES OF INFLAMMATION :

1. ACUTE INFLAMMATION: It is the sudden response when the damage to the body occurs such as cutting  of finger .  To heal the cut  body sends inflammatory cells to injury. Duration of this is few days.
2. CHRONIC INFLAMMATION: Body continue sending inflammatory cells.For example In Rheumatoid arthritis  inflammatory cells  and substances attack joint  tissue  leading to inflammation  which can cause severe damage to joints with pain and deformities. Duration Varies from months to years.

SYMPTOMS OF INFLAMMATION:

• Tenderness
• Redness
• Local rise in temperature
• Fever
• Joint pain or stiffness
• Loss of function

CONDITION ASSOCIATED WITH INFLAMMATION:

1. Alzheimer’s disease
2. Asthma
3. Cancer
4. Rheumatoid arthritis
5. Psoriatic arthritis
6. Gastro intestinal diseases
7. Type 2 diabetes
8. Ankylosing spondylitis

CAUSES OF INFLAMMATION:

1. Injury
2. Scorpion bite , sting bite, bee bite .
3. Bronchitis
4. Appendicitis
5. Exposure to toxins .
6. Excessive use of alcohol.
7. Obesity
8. Smoke
9. Autoimmune disorders such as psoriasis ,.

ANTI INFLAMMATORY FOOD ARE:

1. Berries : Berries are the small fruits that contains fiber ,vitamin and minerals .It contains antioxidants called anthocyanins . common varities of berries are : Strawberries, Blueberries, Raspberries, Blackberries .
2. Fatty fish : It  is a great source of protein and omega 3 fatty acid .
3. Broccoli : It is rich in sulforaphane an antioxidant that decreases inflammation by reducing level of cytokines.
4. Avocados: It is packed with potassium, magnesium ,fiber  which contains carotenoids and tocopherols that help in reducing inflammation by forming new skin cells .
5. Green tea:  It  has antioxidant or anti- inflammatory  properties because it contains a substance  called epigallocatechin 3- gallate . EGCG inhibits inflammation  by reducing pro inflammatory cytokinin  production and damage to fatty acids in cells.
6. Pepper : It contains vitamin –C and antioxidant which reduce inflammation and support healthier aging .
7. Mushroom: It is rich in selenium, copper and low in calories . it contains phenols and antioxidant that provide anti inflammatory reaction .
8. Grapes: It contain anthocyannins   which  helps in reducing  inflammation .
9. Turmeric : It helps in reducing inflammation   related to arthritis , diabetes.

INVESTIGATION:

• C- reactive protein .
• Erythrocyte sedimentation rate.
• CBC

PREVENTIVE MEAURES FOR INFLAMMATION:

• Quit smoking
• Limit intake of alcohol
• Maintain healthy weight.
• Daily exercise.
• Getting good sleep.
• Meditation

FOOD THAT TRIGGER INFLAMMATION ARE :

• Refined carbohydrates.
• Fried foods .
• Sugary drinks.
• Red and processed meats.

AYURVEDIC APPROACH  FOR  INFLAMMATION:

In ayurveda inflammation is compared with shotha  ,shopha. In shotha  the vitiated vata dosha displaces the vitiated rakta ,pitta and kapha and pushes them into the channels of circulation. Than again vata dosha is obstructed by elements and cause accumulation of pitta,kapha and rakta in between  twak  and mamsa.

Shotha is of 9 types:

Vataja, pittaja,kaphaja, vata pittaja , pitta kaphaja, kapha-vataja, tridoshaja  ,abhighataja, vishaja.

Causes of shota in Ayurveda:

Excessive  Intake of Kshara, Amla, Teekshna ahara

Guru, Dadhi,Shaka, dushta ana.

GOOD HERBS IN INFLAMMATION ARE:

• Turmeric
• Ginger
• Garlic
• Black pepper
• Clove
• Fenugreek
• Cardamom

CHANDIGARH  AYURVED  CENTRE  MEDICATION FOR THE TREATMENT OF INFLMMATION :

1. Detox Premium Powder

The powder is very beneficial to cure any body pain as it removes excess toxins from the body and balances the aggravated pitta and vata dosha. It consists of several herbs and bhasmas such as shukta pishti, giloy satv, parwal pishti, kamdudha rasa, moti pishti, gandhak rasayan, akik pishti, etc. The ingredients help in reducing swelling, redness, shrinkage of tear lining in the anus, burning sensation, etc.

Recommended Dosage: Take one sachet twice daily.

2. Nerve up tablet

Nerve up tablets help in balancing the vata doshas. It reduces kapha dosha, and 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 the symptoms related to Allergy.
Recommended Dosage– Take 1 tablet twice daily.

3. Curcumin Capsule

Curcumin Capsule helps in pacifying all three doshas. Curcumin Capsule is beneficial for variety of skin conditions like Acne, Eczema, Psoriasis, and Dermatitis. This Capsule contains standardized extract of the herb Curcumin (Curcuma longa). Curcumin is the active ingredient in Turmeric having powerful Anti-inflammatory, Antibacterial, Antifungal, Anti-microbial and Antioxidant properties.
Recommended Dosage: Take 2 capsules twice daily.

4. Amrit Tulsi Ras

Amrit tulsi ras  herbal preparation is in drops form prepared from five types of Tulsi. Shama Tulsi (Ocimum sanctum), Rama Tulsi (Ocimum gratissimum), Kapoor Tulsi (Ocimum canum), Shwet Tulsi (Ocimum basilicum), Nimba Tulsi (Ocimum citriodorum) that provides good result in all allergic reactions.
Recommended Dosage: Take two to three drops twice daily.

5. Immuno Booster Tablet

Immune booster tablet  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.
Recommended Dosage– Take 1 tablet twice daily.

6. Rasayan vati

Rasayan vati are 100% natural and safe containing herbo-mineral extracts. These ingredients show antioxidant, aphrodisiac, anti-inflammatory, antipyretic, analgesic, immuno-modulator properties.These tablets give good results in General debility, Sexual disorders, and  Improves immunity.

Recommended Dosage: Take one tablet twice daily after meals.

Summer season is best time of year for outdoor activities and fun but with increase in the temperature every day there is drop in energy and it also make person susceptible to rashes, skin itch, dehydration , fever, food poisoning etc. So to beat the heat and stay healthy in summer season precautions should be taken. As there is change in the season it calls for change in individuals routine, rebuilt of diet and change in exercise regime to suit the weather.

  TIPS TO SATY HEALTHY IN SUMMER :

Following simple tips and adjusting one’s diet and daily routine are very helpful to maintain the health of the body. Some of the tips includes :

• Stay Hydrated : High Temperature in summer season leads to continuous sweating and perspiration that causes dehydration in body. To overcome the dehydration and keep body nourished.
  • Increase intake of fresh fruit juices, butter milk, lemonade etc throughout the day to keep body hydrated.
  • Avoid consumption of fizzy drinks , alcohol beverages and coffee as they have tendency to cause dehydration that not only leads to nausea, fever, headache but also disturb the normal functions of body and weakens immunity of individual.
  • Water is essential during summers and individual is recommended to consume 2-3 liters of water daily during peak summer season. Water is the most underrated health tip for summer.
• Meals :
  • The food tend to get bad very fast during summers so to avoid the risk of contamination of food it is essential to store and refrigerate food properly to avoid eating bad or staled food and getting food poisoning.
  • It is advised to eat small quantity and light food rather than consuming huge portion in one sitting or eating food with high carbohydrates and fats content . This tends to generate heat in body and put stress on gut and hampering the digestive process.
  • Consumption of fibrous fruits and vegetables having high water contents like water melon, tomatoes, oranges etc are best to maintain the healthy digestive system.
• Maintain Good Hygiene : High Temperature causes excessive sweating which leads to development of body odor and provide favorable condition for growth of bacteria and other microbes. Regular showering, wearing clean clothes and maintaining personal hygiene not only relaxes the body and mind making individual feel relaxed but also safeguard against dust, bacteria and other harmful particles. Make a routine to start your day and end your day after hectic schedule with a quick shower to refresh and cool the body and mind.
• Take Care of Eyes: The UV Rays of sun have harmful effect on the eyes and leads to many eye conditions . Avoid direct sunlight exposure and wear sun-glasses to provide protection from UV rays .
• Watch Steps : Avoid exposure to scorching sun and heat waves which causes many problems . Prefer stepping outside before afternoon or in evening after sunset . Shift the exercise or physical routine to wee hours of the morning. Also indoor alternative for exercise should be explored for physical activities.
• Add Dietary Supplements : Added Vitamin-c and B-complex rich foods or supplements in diet to improve the immunity and boost overall health.

 RITUCHARYA OF GRISHMA RITU ( SUMMER)

In Ayurved there is detailed description of the seasonal regimen of lifestyle and diet according to changing seasons to maintain health and prevent development of seasonal diseases. The seasonal regime or ritucharya is based on the changes in bala ( strength), dosha and agin (digestive fire) according to different seasons.

The Grishma Ritu or Summer is said to be from Mid of May till Mid of July. It is the last season of Adana Kala and the body experience weakness in this period.

In this ritu there is excessive dryness in environment due to sun rays. Vata dosha slowly increase in this season due to excessive dryness and kapha dosha starts to naturally lower down during summer.

PATHYA AHAR IN GISHMA RITU :

• Cold and sweet churned curd
• Meat of wild birds and animals , milk and ghee with Shali rice
• Light to digest food having Madhur(sweet), sheeta(cool), snigdha(unctuous) and drava (fluid) properties.
• Drink plenty of water kept in earthen pots and different fluids like fresh fruit juice, buttermilk, mango juice, etc.
• Milk with sugar at bedtime.
• Water scanted with khaskhas grass, ushir etc .

PATHY VIHAR IN GRISHMA RITU :

• Sleep in cool shelter during day times
• Apply paste of chandana on body and sleep in airy terrace of house that is cooled by the rays of moon at night
• Go for a walk in evening time near beach, river or in garden full of scented flowers.
• Wear light , flowing and white cotton clothes.
• Sit on surface decorated with gems and pearls .
• Sprinkle of cold water scented with sandal wood and making use of fan made up of tala tree leaves or lily leaves .
• Bath with cold water twice daily

APATHYA AHAR-VIHAR IN GRISHMA RITU:

• Alcohol is contraindicated
• Intake of sour, salty, pungent and hot food is contraindicated
• Physical exercise should be avoided.
• Heavy to digest food should be avoided
• Leftover meat is contraindicated

Skin is the largest organ of the body that provide protection against germs and also maintain body temperature. It is made up of protein, water , fat and minerals. The nerves in skin enables touch sensations like cold and hot. It is a part of Integumentary system along with hairs, oil glands, nails and sweat glands. skin is made up of three layers :

• Epidermis : It is the top most layer of skin that individual can see and touch. Keratin protein along with other proteins sticks together to form epidermis layer.
  • Makes New Skin : It makes new skin cells and the new cells replace old skin cells that body sheds every day.
  • Acts as a protective barrier : It helps to keep germs from entering into your body and bloodstream which leads to infections. It also provide protection against sun, rain and other elements.
  • Provide skin color : It contain pigment called melanin which provide color to the skin, hair and eyes . Individual with high melanin content have dark skin tone and may tan more readily
  • Protects body: Epidermis have Langerhans cells that are crucial part of immune system and they helps to fight germs and infections in body.
• Dermis : This layer is  middle layer of the ski which makes upto 90% of skin’s thickness
  • Contain collagen and elastin : Protein collagen present in dermis makes skin cells resilient and strong. Another protein Elastin found in skin provide flexibility to it .
  • Grows Hair : Roots of hair follicles is attached with dermis layer of the skin.
  • Tactile sensations : The nerves present in dermis layer signals the brain if something is too hot to touch, super soft or itchy and also helps to feel any kind of pain.
  • Oil Glands : The oil glands are present in dermis layer that helps to keep skin smooth and soft. The oil also prevent excessive absorption of water in skin while swimming etc.
  • Sweat Glands : The sweat glands present in dermis release sweat through skin pores and also regulates the body temperature.
  • Supplies blood : The blood vessels present in dermis provides nutrients to epidermis layer thus keeps the skin layers healthy.
• Hypodermis : It is the bottom layer of skin also called as fatty layer.
  • Cushions bones and muscles : The fat present in this layer provides protection to muscles and bones from any kind injure or in accident.
  • Connective Tissue: The connective tissues present in hypodermis layer connects layers of skin to bones and muscles.
  • Nerves and blood vessels: the nerves and blood vessels present in dermis layer gets large in hypodermis and they branch out to connect hypodermis layer to rest of body.
  • Regulates body temperature : The fat present in hypodermis keeps the body from getting too hot or cold.

HARMFUL  DIETARY HABITS FOR SKIN

The food we consume reflects in the health of skin and skin tends to show first signs of poor health. Some of the food habits that cause harm to skin includes :

• Refined Carbohydrates : Food items like white bread , candy ,pasta etc are made from the refined carbohydrates. These items when consumed increase the blood sugar levels very quickly and also increase the chances of getting wrinkles early or acne breakouts. The high level of sugar in blood triggers the production of hormones that tends to promotes oil secretions from oil glands present in skin which clog’s the skin pores causing acne and pimples.
• Excessive Salt Intake : Salt tends to increase the retention of water in cells of skin causing puffiness and facial bloating. Intake of foods rich in sodium like chips, pickles, cured meats, sauces etc makes under eye skin puff which makes person look tired. Iodized salt is said to be a cause of acne breakouts in many individuals
• Excessive Intake of Alcohol : Alcohol tends to cause dehydration in skin cells that can lead to wrinkles and dry skin. It also have deteriorating affect on collagen fibers that causes sagging of the skin and it affects the skin complexion making it look dull. Alcohol interferes in Vitamin-A uptake which has new skin cell building ability. It can also lead to development of serious skin conditions like psoriasis, rashes, skin cancer, dermatitis
• Artificial Sweeteners and Sugar: The chemical present in artificial sweeteners gets accumulated in skin resulting in skin inflammation as it increase the possibility of histamine reactions. Refined sugar also cause premature aging as it damages collagen and elastin thus damaging skin cells.
• Coffee : Excessive intake of coffee in a day leads to increased production of Cortisol “Stress hormone” in the body. Excessive cortisol tends to accelerate aging process . It also causes dehydration of skin cells and make skin appear dull. It also cause skin thinning which leads to formation of fine lines and wrinkles
• Dairy Products : Intake of dairy products can cause whiteheads, pimples and blackheads in individuals with acne prone skin. The hormone found in milk tends to stimulate the production of excessive oil in skin leading to clog pores and acne formation.

DIETARY HABITS FOR GOOD SKIN:

• Drink plenty of water as it provide hydration to skin cells and flushes out harmful toxins from the body to provide plump and healthy skin.
• Incorporate fruits and vegetables rich in vitamin-A like sweet potato, carrots, papaya, mango etc as plays essential role in building skin cells and stimulates production of collagen in skin.
• Incorporate foods like salmon, walnuts , flaxseeds in diet as they contain essential fatty acids that helps to maintain the healthy cell membranes of skin cells thus making skin barrier strong and healthy.
• Include Whole wheat bread, cereals , tuna etc contain mineral called selenium which helps to minimize the skin damage caused by the sun and also lower the risk of skin cancer.
• Green tea have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that helps to reverse the damage caused by free radicals thus providing healthy and youthful skin.