Master herbalist, Klaus Ferlow, examines what herbalism actually is and gives a brief outline of the history of herbalism. Rather than a backup to normal orthodox medicine, herbalism should be primary healthcare.

MOST PEOPLE IN NORTH AMERICA might not be familiar what herbalism is all about and I would like to inform you about the history of herbs and why it is very important for your health and well being.

I would like to start by using the quote from Debra St. Claire, Master Herbalist (MH), graduated from the Dominion Herbal College, Burnaby, B.C., the oldest North American Herbal College since 1926 said in her Pocket Herbal Reference Guide from 1992:

“After the ability to synthesize medicine from inert substances such as petroleum and minerals was developed the therapeutic use of herbs diminished. The art of pharmacy turned to the production of drugs which could bring the quickest relief of symptoms, ignoring the reason that the symptoms appeared. As we look back, perhaps it is time to reconsider the path. The use of these substances has spawned a myriad of unexpected problems, such as suppression of the very signals that our bodies produce to alert us to a need of change. Pain itself is a call to action – a call to remedy an imbalance in our lifestyle. The proficient use of herbal therapy is directly connected to our ability to sense the first signal and to adjust our lifestyle accordingly. It is when these signals are continually ignored that disease has a chance to set itself more deeply within our bodies.“

I myself was honoured by the Dominion Herbal College for my lifetime of dedication to the cause of herbal medicine, as practitioner, manufacturer, author, promoter and defender of herbs and the practice of art and science in herbal medicine. I received an Honorary Master Herbalist Diploma November 25th, 2008 and I am only the 5fth recipient of this prestigious Award in their 86th history.

“Herbs and plants are medical jewels gracing in the woods, fields and lanes, which few eyes see and minds understand.” Carolus Linneus, Naturalist 1707 – 1778

THE HERB AS HEALER

A plant that is used as a medicine is referred as an herb, the Latin word herba, the Old French erbe, and the derivation of Middle English herbe. It can be pronounced with or without the initial “h-sound”. Originally, the term herb only applied to non-woody plants. Later it came to be used to refer to any part of any plant used for flavouring or medicine. In the field of complementary and alternative health care, (CAM) – I really don’t like that term since we are dealing in traditional medicine and CAM as far as I am concerned should be used by the allopathic medicine – it is now used to mean any plant, in whole or in part, having nutritional and/or medicinal value. Individual or combined parts of plant that may be used include: seed, fruit, flower, leaf, stem, or root/rhizome.

Herbalism, or phytotherapy, is the use of plants to support the natural healing ability of the body. Several types of herbal medicine systems are in use today – including Ayurvedic, Chinese, European, Native American, and Western Herbalism. Even though each system uses different morphologies, terms and herbs, each of these systems treat the whole body holistically; using the energy of the plants to work in synergy in each individual, in order to help the body to heal itself because the body itself is the best healer! Herbs have a remarkable history of healing human beings and maintaining good health when properly used.

Most herbs in their natural state are safe, and do not leave a residue in the body that could produce negative side effects. The opposite is with most drugs, synthetically developed in laboratories, even though some are extracted from plants. When these plants are not used in their natural state it can result in harmful side effects. Drugs tend to treat or mask a symptom or condition, while the use of herbals emphasizes that one could avoid getting sick in the first place because herbs help to balance and support the body.

The compounds in herbs work synergistically in the body to promote healing. All plants have therapeutic properties as they contain a variety of biologically active substances. Plants undergo photosynthesis, transforming carbon dioxide into energy rich substances. The resulting carbon chains are further transformed into a variety of compounds such as lipids, alkaloids, essential oils and tannins. Through other biochemical process, minerals and nitrates are absorbed by the roots and transformed into vitamins, trace minerals and antibiotics.

Herbs can affect biological systems in our bodies at the cellular and organ level. Ultimately these high levels of biologically active substances can produce pharmacological and therapeutic effects. The natural value of herbs is very high and organically grown herbs (without the use of chemical fertilizer, herbicides and pesticides spraying) offer maximum benefits. Herbal medicine represents a particular approach to healing which differs from allopathic medicine. Rather relieving single symptoms with a single active ingredient, herbs offer a holistic approach by striving to heal the entire body by treating the cause. Medicine can only be truly holistic if it acknowledges the social and culturacontext which the illness occurred, and then the desired healing takes place.

The renewed interest in holistic traditional medicine, as well as a great number of other alternative complementary therapies, has encouraged changes within the existing medical profession. It is incumbent upon us all to seek out and utilize appropriate health alternatives. It appears that these opportunities will continue in the coming years. It might surprise you that even today 80% of the total world population of 7 billion is still using herbs, herbal remedies and homeopathy for healing. This was also stated a few years ago by Chris Kilham, the medicine hunter, author, lecturer – he teaches ethnobotany at the University of Massachusetts, Amherst at his lecture at public health shows in Vancouver and Victoria, British Columbia, Canada.

There are multiple ways to dispense herbs: aromatics, decoctions, hot or cold infusions, juices, creams, salves, ointments, liniments, lotions, soaps, shampoo, toothpaste, sprays, medicinal oils, conditioners, teas, poultice and fomentations, powders, perfumes, syrups, tinctures, extracts (alcohol or glycerine based), pills, tablets, capsules, and whole herb (dry or fresh) and for cooking. The herbalist takes into consideration the nature of the imbalance and the method to best take full advantage of the healing attributes of the specific herb. To increase effectiveness, herbs may be used both internally and externally.

OUR HERBAL HERITAGE

Medicinal plants are mentioned in the Bible, and various herbs are mentioned throughout.

“In the beginning God created the heaven on earth…and God said, Behold, I have given you every herb bearing seed, which is upon the face of all the earth, and every tree, in which is the fruit of a tree yielding seed, to you. It shall be for meat.” Genesis 1:29

“He causeth the grass to grow for the cattle, and the herb for the service of man.” Psalm 204-14″

The ancient Egyptians wrote their findings on papyrus. The Sumerians from Mesopotamia (modern Iraq) used tablets of cuneiform writing. Hippocrates was a famous Greek doctor. The Romans believed Greek doctors were the best. Galen was the doctor to the emperor Marcus Aurelius. Dioscorides was the emperor Nero’s doctor. We learnt about herbs used in ancient India and ancient China through a famous Arabic doctor called Avicenna who had read the writing. Throughout Europe and in the Middle Ages monks in their monasteries, grew and used herbs as medicines. In Germany Hildegard of Bingen who was a abbess and a herbalist treated the sick with herbs. Voyages of discovery in the 15th and 16th centuries resulted in the pilgrims taking to America herbs they used in England. Then, over time, herbs native to America came to Europe and other parts of the world. In Britain, Nicholas Culpeter published a book to help ordinary people make their own herbal remedies instead of paying for expensive ones from doctors.

Herbs have been used for uncounted time for various purposes like healing the sick and infirm. People thought that herbs keep the body in tune with nature as nature intended and maintain proper balance. Many scientific studies still continue with modern research following up the lead of old folklore and herbal uses to help finding new western medicine. Man also been aware of the effect on the body, mind spirit and emotion. For example – flowers were utilized to attract love, food and protection. Fragrant plants were worn to heal the body and give you a sense of well being. The most costly flowers are offered to gods and goddesses and the use of aromatic incense is recorded from ancient times. When herbs are taken, the body starts to get cleansed and purifies itself. Unlike chemically synthesized, highly concentrated drugs that may produce many negative side affects, herbs can effectively realign the body’s defences. Herbs do not produce instant cures, but rather offer a way to put the body in proper tune with nature. Nevertheless you are now in charge of your own body and health! And remember: “For every disease we know Mother Earth provides a herb to health and grow!“

I come to the conclusion of my article by using a quote from Dr. Carolyn Dean, MD, ND, Herbalist Acupuncturist, Nutritionist from her book “Death by Modern Medicine:“

“We must always remember that allopathy is only a medical model born of the industrial age, and to suggest that the oldest and most used healing arts in the world are secondary to allopathy is not only insulting but inaccurate as well. These traditional methods of restoring and maintaining maximum health, by virtue of their track record of safety and success, take second place to no other medical model.”

My suggestion is you should try herbs, herbal remedies and homeopathic medicine (derived from botanical plants) so you can judge for yourself. But read all ingredients on the labels and avoid any harmful dangerous, hazardous chemicals. For more information about them, please check these websites:

http://www.positivehealth.com/environmental/hidden-dangers-lurking-in-your-cosmetics-and-personal-care-products

http://www.positivehealth.com/article/environmental/fragrance-a-growing-health-and-environmental-hazard.

Copyright © 2011 Klaus Ferlow

References:

Earl Mindell, R.Ph., Ph.D., Herb Bible, Simone & Schuster Inc., 2000

Jeanne Rose, Herbs & Things, Last Gasp, 2001

Joe Serrentino, How Natural Remedies Work, Hartley & Marks, 1991

Bernard Jensen, DC, Ph.D., Nutritionist, Herbs: Wonder Healers, Bernard Jensen 1992

Debra St. Claire, MH, Pocket Herbal Reference Guide, The Crossing Press, 1992

James A. Duke, PhD., The Green Pharmacy Herbal Handbook, Rodale Press Inc., 2000

James A. Duke, PhD., The Green Pharmacy, Rodale Press Inc., 1997

Terry Willard, Cl.H., Ph.D., Encyclopedia of Herbs, Key Porter Books Ltd, 2002

David Kessler, M.D., The Doctors Complete Guide to Healing Herbs, Berkley Books, 1996

John Lust, N.D. & Michael Tierra, C.A., O.M.D., The Natural Remedy Bible, Pocket Books, 1990

Peter Tompkins & Christopher Bird, The Secret Life of Plants, Harper Perennial, 1989

John Lust, N.D.,D.B.M., The herb Book, Bantam Books, 1974

Tompkins Peter, Bird Christopher, The Secret Life of Plants, Harper Perennial, 1973

Kilham, Chris, www.medicine-hunter.com

Many illnesses can cause nausea and vomiting. Also they accompany some illnesses. The severity of the illnesses is judged by their intensity of occurrence sometimes. If one is suffering from them, it is good to get oneself checked up by a physician. They should not be neglected.

Nausea and vomiting are not diseases, but symptoms of other illnesses, such as food poisoning, motion sickness, overeating etc

There is difference between the two. Nausea is uneasiness in the stomach causing feeling of vomiting. One does not necessarily vomit. Vomiting is forcibly or involuntary emptying of the stomachthrough the mouth. Both can be irritating and cause weakness and much discomfort.

Certain treatments can also cause nausea and vomiting such as chemotherapy in cancer treatment. Pregnant women may also experience both of them.

There are natural remedies to treat them. One needs to become aware of them and choose that suits them. At the same time it is good to consult a physician if they persist or their intensity of occurrence is very strong.
What remedies can we choose from? Let us be aware of some of them.

Home Remedies for Nausea and Vomiting
Let us have a look at some of the top nausea and vomiting home remedies –

• Non-carbonated syrup – It gives relief to the system. They contain carbohydrates which cool down the system
• Gingerroot – It is gives quick relief to nausea
• Vomiting – It gets rid of nausea
• Peppermint or chamomile tea helps to reduce nausea feeling
• Apple cider vinegar helps in morning sickness nausea
• Wheat germ mixed with milk gets rid of nausea
• Cooked rice water can also be drunk to treat nausea
• Stick to liquids if you feel like vomiting
• Bed rest helps
• No alcohol
• Do not control the vomiting
• Maintain your electrolyte balance
• Aniseed helps
• Yarrow tea
• Mint juice keeps the stomach in good condition
• Pineapple relieves much stomach disorders

Ayurveda for Nausea and Vomiting
Below are some of the primary nausea and vomiting ayurveda remedies that are effective -

• A mixture of cardamom and honey
• Nutmeg and cardamom in warm milk to be taken
• Cumin seeds and ground nutmeg in boiling water. Drink it
• Ginger
• Clove
• Fennel
• Other preparations are rasa, lehya, Choorma , Bhasma and Kashya

Nausea and vomiting can cause a lot of discomfort. Stomach disorders cause it. One should not stop vomiting, as it is body’s way of getting rid of bad stuff. Deal with them effectively. Home Remedies for Nausea and Vomiting helps in getting rid of the problem but if the problem is severe then go for a doctor’s advice as too much of Vomiting is not good for your health and the problem can become serious too.

Many illnesses can cause nausea and vomiting. Also they accompany some illnesses. The severity of the illnesses is judged by their intensity of occurrence sometimes. If one is suffering from them, it is good to get oneself checked up by a physician. They should not be neglected.

Nausea and vomiting are not diseases, but symptoms of other illnesses, such as food poisoning, motion sickness, overeating etc

There is difference between the two. Nausea is uneasiness in the stomach causing feeling of vomiting. One does not necessarily vomit. Vomiting is forcibly or involuntary emptying of the stomachthrough the mouth. Both can be irritating and cause weakness and much discomfort.

Certain treatments can also cause nausea and vomiting such as chemotherapy in cancer treatment. Pregnant women may also experience both of them.

There are natural remedies to treat them. One needs to become aware of them and choose that suits them. At the same time it is good to consult a physician if they persist or their intensity of occurrence is very strong.
What remedies can we choose from? Let us be aware of some of them.

Home Remedies for Nausea and Vomiting
Let us have a look at some of the top nausea and vomiting home remedies –

• Non-carbonated syrup – It gives relief to the system. They contain carbohydrates which cool down the system
• Gingerroot – It is gives quick relief to nausea
• Vomiting – It gets rid of nausea
• Peppermint or chamomile tea helps to reduce nausea feeling
• Apple cider vinegar helps in morning sickness nausea
• Wheat germ mixed with milk gets rid of nausea
• Cooked rice water can also be drunk to treat nausea
• Stick to liquids if you feel like vomiting
• Bed rest helps
• No alcohol
• Do not control the vomiting
• Maintain your electrolyte balance
• Aniseed helps
• Yarrow tea
• Mint juice keeps the stomach in good condition
• Pineapple relieves much stomach disorders

Ayurveda for Nausea and Vomiting
Below are some of the primary nausea and vomiting ayurveda remedies that are effective -

• A mixture of cardamom and honey
• Nutmeg and cardamom in warm milk to be taken
• Cumin seeds and ground nutmeg in boiling water. Drink it
• Ginger
• Clove
• Fennel
• Other preparations are rasa, lehya, Choorma , Bhasma and Kashya

Nausea and vomiting can cause a lot of discomfort. Stomach disorders cause it. One should not stop vomiting, as it is body’s way of getting rid of bad stuff. Deal with them effectively. Home Remedies for Nausea and Vomiting helps in getting rid of the problem but if the problem is severe then go for a doctor’s advice as too much of Vomiting is not good for your health and the problem can become serious too.

From:  http://www.instah.com/home-remedies/home-remedies-for-nausea-and-vomiting/

Check out and subscribe to my Ayurveda Weekly

This is a weekly paper based on Ayurveda tweets shared by me and many of my Ayurveda friends on Twitter.   This is a easy way to ready what is going on.

You are also welcome to follow me on Twitter:

http://twitter.com/JohnVorstermans

Irritable bowel syndrome or IBS has become a real issue with many people today. IBS symptoms are abdominal cramps, alternatating constipation and diarrhoea,  and often lack of control over one’s bowels, causing a lot of problems in particularly when travelling. Modern medicine does not yet know what  causes the IBS, however Ayurveda believes that Irritable bowel syndrome is caused mainly due to accumulated toxins because of improper digestion.  A stressed filled life also indirectly contribute to IBS.  It emphasis that it can be treated by a little changes in the diet,  lifestyle, yogic practice (yogasanas, breathing techniques, meditation) along with the intake of ayurvedic medicines which are in the form of herbal formulas.

To correct IBS, it is the GI-tract that needs attention.  The basic rules of Ayurveda for treating improper digestion are:

Continued…

If you are interest in Herbs and Ayurveda you might like to take a look at www.ayurwiki.info which is an Wiki devoted to the subject of Ayurveda herbs and associated information.

This project is attempting to gather as much information about herbs/plants (dravyas in Ayurveda) on-line for the benefit of practitioners as a resource, herbalists  and the public for information on the herbs that may be taking or being subscribed, although a little understanding of Ayurveda is required to understand the concepts mentioned.

Ayurveda makes use of many hundred of herbs and mineral preparations in its medicines, the information of which is scattered in various resources which are often not so easy to get to.  This project is an attempt to gather this information in one place and to include details of whatever research for each of the herbs listed.

Ayurveda looks at herbs in a different way to modern herbalism or naturopathy, although modern ayurvedic texts do mention the chemical constituents of the herbs.  Ayurveda looks more closely at the actions (karmas) associated with each herbs and their energetics.   Herbs with different actions and energetics are used in different ways and combinations depending on the imbalance within a client and the ayurvedic constitution of the client.  As such, different herbal combinations of herbs are often used for the same conditions in different clients.    Traditionally a client would have been given a special mixture of herbs on visiting an Ayurvedic practitioner or doctor but today in Ayurveda there are many common compounds of medicines made which can be taken by a variety of people.

The project has a long way to go yet but there is now some content on-line.

If you are interest in contributing I would love to hear from you.   If you are interested in the project and would like to be kept informed then you can subscribe to a newsletter on the website…. don’t be concerned about being spammed by constant newsletters as I can assure you these will be irregular and contain interesting information on Ayurveda from time to time.

Below is an video clip from the International Ayurveda & Yoga Conference- by Dr Robert Svoboda- Ojas & Prana.

Increasing waistline is always a cause of worry and agony when you are already over weight. Obesity is a major problem in these days and getting over it is a huge task. You might have tried several methods to reduce weight. Had been consistent, it would have produced results too. Let’s try ayurveda this time. Ayurveda is the oldest medical science and the most important fact is that there are no chemical rich medicines in Ayurveda. Fat reduction can also be caused by still having enough food but in a different manner. The things that I’ve mentioned below may be familiar but just try this out consistently for 30 days and I’m sure you will smile because you will start seeing the results.

• Take 2 fruits in the morning and 1 fruit in the evening. I’ll mention later in this article the fruits that help in fat reduction.
• Take one glass of water every hour from the time you wake up till you sleep.
• Exercising is one of your dreams that never come true. Okay don’t do any heavy exercise. Morning or evenings go for a brisk walk. Don’t think you are brisk walking to reduce fat. Just go out and do some brisk walking while enjoying the scenes around. Stop whenever you want for a chat or to have a juice. Then again continue. Or join a swimming club and swim everyday for sometime. If even that doesn’t work, buy a bicycle and ride for 30 minutes everyday.
• Come back and have a glass of Carrot juice without sugar.
• Any time of the day have a salad made of cabbage, tomato, lime juice, honey and mint.
• Minimize intake of salt and reduce milk based products like ice cream and butter for few days. I told reduce.
• Use lot of ginger, cinnamon, pepper and garlic in your cooking.
  Now the hottest tip. Take two spoons of

Read the complete article free at http://sanojjose79.blogspot.com/2010/01/how-to-reduce-your-belly-fat-ayurveda.html

Article Source:http://www.articlesbase.com/nutrition-articles/how-to-reduce-your-belly-fat-the-ayurveda-way-1780427.html

Mental disorders are a common problem in today’s world. A general term used to cover all the problems which relate to our mind. Often they arise slowly over a long period of time as we find ourselves being challenged by external and internal problems, both consciously or subconsciously which our mind is not able to process or finds unacceptable. If we are not able to process the issue within our framework of understanding or our ‘accepted’ cultural norms, it may lead to the creation of psychic disease with are today called mental disorder.

On a psychological level we naturally try to harmonise these problems but if we are not able to it can lead to a mental disorders. The causes are many but often stem from our own way of looking at things and the inability or unwillingness of our mind to process what is happening. Sometimes we just don’t want to let go of a belief or viewpoint. At other times we might be attached to a result and when something comes to challenge this, as life tends to do, we find our mind under stress in trying to work through the issue. On an unconscious level the mind may know what to do but at a conscious level the mind wants to do something else creating a conflict between the inner and outer, or the personality and the soul. The result often manifests as a Mental Disorder or sickness.

The symptoms of an imbalance mind manifest in our behaviour, attitude, the way we react, we become intolerant, our manners may become inappropriate, our actions often manifest oddly or we might becomes abnormal in our day-to-day activities. Of course this can happen to any person at any age.

In Ayurveda mental disorders are known as “unmad“. According to Ayurveda mental disorders come about through the improper correlation of the mind, the senses and their perception.

In Ayurveda to maintain a healthy mind we look at the whole person, body, emotions and mind. If we can do this then under normal conditions dis-ease will not arise. In this way an Ayurveda practitioner helps a client to understand their elemental nature or the Doshas that are strong in their life. Through this education the person becomes aware of how to keep their body in balance and when out of balance how to bring it back into balance through what is eaten and an appropriate lifestyle for our nature, which incorporates both time for activity and times for rest. For the mind exercise and reflection or meditation are very important to ensure we maintain mental balance. Meditation does not work for everyone, but this can be replaced by chanting, singing, reading beautiful poetry or inspirational works. There is not one size fits all as we are all unique.

Our mind has a nature of its own. In Ayurveda it is usually either settled and at peace, energised by desire and action or it is dull and lethargic. The mind can move from one to the other state during the day but in general one state predominates. The goal is to create a balance between these three divine energies, called Satva, Ragas and Tamas in the eastern philosophies. Many Yogis attempt to make their mind more Satvic or peaceful, as it is believed that in this state it is easier to reach Moksha or enlightenment/contentment. This is also the approach taken by a Ayurvedic practitioner when trying to balance mental disorders, to focus on the Satvic nature of the mind which develops a nature of peacefulness, acceptance, tolerance, understand and detachment from outcomes.

Some of the qualities which may be adopted to create a peaceful mind are commonly seen any may religions and philosophies however if you think about them they make common sense. They are are: –

1. Creating a no-attachment to outcomes. Our attachment to outcomes often leads to disappointments and this mental anguish.
2. Be confident in oneself.
3. Cultivating a calmness and tolerance for to all we come across.
4. Create positive intentions.
5. Be honest but kind,
6. Be helpful to others.

There are certain herbs that are mentioned in Ayurveda, which has wonderful effects in treating mental disorders, and improve brains efficiency.

Some of those are mentioned below

1. Brahmi (Bacopa monnieri) Commonly known as Indian Pennywort is generally found everywhere in India especially above 4000 ft. of height. It has also been found growing in New Zealand. This herb is most extensively used in Indian system of medicine as brain tonic and stress reliever. Due to its qualities, it is nourishes the mind. It is considered to be the nerve stimulant that helps in perception and to improve reflexes.. It is considered to be a nerve-rejuvenating herb, which has been used by Ayurvedic practitioners for centuries in any condition in which brain is found affected or in psyche related disorders. Good results have also been found in epilepsy attacks. It acts as non-sedative tranquillizer which has made it idea for use in anxiety and hypertension. The whole plant is used in preparing herbal medicines.

2. Ashwagandha (withania somnifera) commonly called winter cherry is one of the herbs that produce wonderful results in problems caused by Vata disorders (imbalance of the air in our systems). Its main function is to maintain the harmony of Vata whether it aggravates or become suppressed by effects of other dosha. Because of its heating it acts directly on unstable Vata (which is cold) thereby helping Vata to remain in stable state. Therefore is has a good effect on nervous system, circulatory system as well as joint related problems. Ashwagandha plays a major role in suppressing anxiety and hypertension. It has proved very affective in relieving stress and stress related problems. It has given wonderful results in joint pains and arthritic conditions. It has also proven its worth in improving body immunity and overall strength to fight against the disease. It has also been found effective in treating weakness and mental fatigue of the body. Good results in depression and other mental ailments have also been seen. Plant part used is the root.

Ayurveda has many herbs with help with mental disorders alongside diet and lifestyle changes. Often these would go hand in hand with counseling and other supportive treatments to bring about an harmonious association between our body, mind and emotions.

By: Felicia M. Tomasko

From LA Yoga Magazine.

Chiropractor, Ayurvedic physician, author of four books and father, John Douillard has been practicing Ayurveda full-time for 20 years; the practice influences his entire life. He says, “You can’t do this every day and not get it.” Dr. Douillard has plenty of opportunities to incorporate Ayurvedic remedies and routines in his daily life, since he and Ginger, his wife of 20 years, have six children, ranging in age from three to 18. He attributes the closeness of his family and success of his marriage to Ayurveda.

John’s mother inspired his journey as a seeker; for his seventeenth birthday, she registered him for a course in Transcendental Meditation. He continues the journey of discovering his soul and his capacity for unconditional love, through Ayurveda.

Felicia: What inspired you to study Ayurveda?
Continued…

Coloured capsule

It is with some sadness that I came across the following article from the Indian Times with regard to the manufacture of Ayurvedic pills and capsules. Like everything today we need discernment before we purchase a product – check the ingredients or ask your practitioner if the products they are giving you contains anything other than natural substances.

Here is the article:

Ayurveda, the oldest health system in the world, is going in for a makeover, but is it all for the good? Till now, the biggest innovation had been coloured ayurvedic pills and capsules. But the government’s recent amendment of the 63-year-old Drugs and Cosmetics Act appears to allow a more fundamental change — ayurvedic medicine can now contain anti-oxidants, flavouring agents, preservatives and sweeteners. So is ayurveda about to lose its unique organic wholesomeness? Continued…

Dear Friends, I came across a very good writeup on ayurvedic drugs written by by Dr. Dheeraj Malhotra, MD (Ayu), read it to find more….

Heavy Metals in Ayurveda

Heavy metals – Are they really heavy on human body?

Ayurveda is knowledge about healthy prolongation of life (Ayu + Veda). Is it possible that the Spiritual Gurus who unveiled this treasure to the ailing humanity could have made this blunder and reduce the life of a person?

The answer is bold “NO.”

Continued…

From http://www.pharmainfo.net/luckypharmacist/heavy-metals-ayurveda-part-2

Dear Friends, I came across a very good writeup on ayurvedic drugs written by by Dr. Dheeraj Malhotra, MD (Ayu), read it to find more….

Heavy Metals in Ayurveda Part 2

Laboratory Reference Ranges for Toxic Metals in Blood and Urine

Mercury

Random urine < 5 µg/g creatinine (Not provoked with a chelator).
Occupational limit in urine of exposed workers < 35 µg/g creatinine (Not provoked with a chelator)
Whole blood < 8.0 µg/L
Occupational limit in exposed workers < 15.0 µg/L.
Hair <15 µg/g (µg/g = ppm)
Environmental exposure: < 8.0 µg/L, individuals consuming large quantities of seafood may have values as high as 200.0 µg/L.
Occupational exposure: BEI®: inorganic mercury (sampling time is end of shift at end of work week): <15.0 µg/L1

Some Common Mistakes

Continued…