Turmeric: “The Golden Goddess”

Written by: Lisa Gallant C.A.S., California College of Ayurveda

Introduction

Within the cornucopia of medicinal plants, few possess such a wide spectrum of qualities and medicinal uses as turmeric. For countless centuries, many different cultures have used this wonderful, versatile herb to treat a myriad of diseases and ailments. The most well known medicinal action of turmeric is its use as a powerful anti-inflammatory, the effectiveness of which is comparable to pharmaceutical medicines. However, it also acts as an alterative, analgesic, antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, anti-tumor, anti-allergic, anti-oxidant, antiseptic, antispasmodic, astringent, carminative, cholagogue, digestive, diuretic, stimulant, and vulnerary 6,8,10 . Modern science is beginning to recognize and understand the amazing healing qualities of turmeric and much research is currently being conducted.

Turmeric has been proven effective in treating some of the most intense ailments afflicting the world today including: Arthritis, Cancer, Alzheimer’s Disease, Diabetes, Multiple Sclerosis, Atherosclerosis, HIV/AIDS, Sexually Transmitted Diseases (Hepatitis-C, Genital Herpes) , Irritable Bowel Syndrome, Indigestion, Inflammation, Acne, Urinary Tract Infections, Kidney Infections, Gallstones, Anemia, Hemorrhoids, Liver Disease, Leprosy, Amenorrhea, Edema, Bronchitis, Common Cold, Headaches, Conjunctivitis, Bursitis, food poisoning, parasites, fever, diarrhea, poor circulation, lower back and abdominal pain. It can also be used as a mosquito repellent, wound healer, and immediate cure for scorpion stings. Turmeric helps balance the female reproductive and lactation systems, and in men it purifies and improves the health of semen. It is used to treat external ulcers that would not respond to other treatment 6,8,10 . Due to its vast array of medicinal purposes and versatility, turmeric is one of the most important herbs in any natural medicine cabinet.

The Latin name for turmeric is “Curcuma Longa”, which comes from the Arabic name for the plant, “Kurkum.” 10 It comes from the Zingiberaceae family (same as ginger) and in Sanskrit is called “Haridra”(“The Yellow One”), “Gauri” (“The One Whose Face is Light and Shining”),“Kanchani” (“Golden Goddess”) , and Aushadhi (“Herb”). It is called “Jiang Huang” in Chinese, and “Haldi” (“Yellow”) in Hindi, the most common name in India 6 . The healing properties of turmeric lie in the golden fingerlike stalk, or rhizome, the same part that is used to flavor, color, and preserve food. Turmeric is commonly found in Indian curries, giving the food a golden orange color. Turmeric has also been used as a dye for mustards, canned chicken broth, and pickles. It has been coded as food additive “E100” in canned beverages, baked products, dairy, ice cream, yogurts, yellow cakes, biscuits, popcorn, sweets, cake icing, cereal, sauces, gelatins, and also direct compression tablets. In combination with annatto, turmeric is used to color cheese, dry mixes, salad dressing, butter and margarine 3 . The brilliant color has also been used for dyeing silk and wool; the robes of Buddhist monks were traditionally dyed with turmeric 10 .

Turmeric is a native to South Asia , particularly India , but is cultivated in many warm regions of the world. It can be found growing extensively in all of India , but does especially well in the regions of Tamil Nadu, West Bengal , and Maharashtra 10 . It is also cultivated in Sri Lanka , Indonesia , China , Taiwan , Indochina , Peru , Haiti , and Jamacia. India is the largest producer in the world; Jamacia and Peru are the chief exporters, and Iran the largest importer. Other large importers are the United Kingdom , Japan , Canada , Sri Lanka , Singapore , and the Middle East 9 .

There are two main varieties of turmeric: one with hard, rich colored, oval rhizomes, called “Lokahandi Halad” that is used mostly for dying, and a variety that is softer, larger, lighter colored with long rhizomes used mostly for eating 8 . Turmeric became valuable to humans when it was discovered that the powdered rhizome preserved the freshness and nutritive value of foods. It was originally used in curries and other food to improve storage conditions, palatability, and preservation. Because of its preservation properties, turmeric played a vital role in survival and sustainability in South Asia , and was valued more than gold and precious stones 7 . However, turmeric was eventually replaced by cheaper, synthetic preservatives.

Turmeric was used much more extensively by the natives of India than today. Turmeric was highly valued by the ancient Indo-European people not only for its preservation properties, but for its energetic and spiritual qualities as well. The Arya culture was a group of people who worshipped the solar system and the sun as a deity. Turmeric was very sacred to them, due to its golden yellow color (like sunlight) and they believed it had special protective properties 7 . Remnants of this belief still exist today, particularly in South India , where some people wear a dried turmeric rhizome bead the size of a large grape around their neck or arm. This is an ancient talisman tradition used to ward off evil and grant to the wearer healing and protection 16 . People of ancient India believed that turmeric contained the energy of the Divine Mother, helped to grant prosperity, cleanse the chakras (energy centers in the body), and purify the channels of the subtle body 6 . Even today, Hindu people consider turmeric to have auspicious qualities, and use it in many sacred ceremonies. It is commonly made into a paste and applied to the forehead (ajna chakra or third eye) during pujas (devotional ceremonies) and weddings. During a traditional Indian wedding ceremony, the bridge and groom apply a paste of turmeric and sandalwood powder on each other’s foreheads. Some women use it as a cosmetic, called “Kappumanjal” or rub it over their bodies as a detergent 8 . Traditionally, turmeric was also used to dye the marriage clothing. It was believed that any clothing dyed with turmeric was protection from fever. New clothes would sometimes be stained with a paste of turmeric, lime, and water. Today, magenta dye has become more popular 9 .

Turmeric and Ayurvedaⁱ

Turmeric has been used for centuries in Ayurveda, the 5,000 year old natural healing system of India . It is called by 46 different synonyms, including: “pitta” (yellow), “gauri” (brilliant), and all words that indicate “night” 10 . This comes from a tradition of married women applying turmeric to their cheeks in the evening in preparation for a visit from Lakshmi (The Goddess of Prosperity) 7 . In Ayurveda, turmeric is believed to balance the three doshas (vata, pitta, and kapha). It has been used by Ayurvedic healers as medicine taken internally in the form of fresh juice, boiled tea, tinctures, or powder, and topically as creams, lotions, pastes, and ointments 1 . There are many ancient Ayurvedic formulas utilizing turmeric. Milk boiled with turmeric and sugar was a popular cold remedy and turmeric juice was used to help heal wounds, bruises, and leech bites. A paste made from turmeric, lime, and salt was commonly applied to sprains and inflamed joints 8 . Smoke made by sprinkling turmeric over burnt charcoal was used to relieve scorpion stings within a few minutes that the affected area is exposed to smoke. Inhaling the fumes of burning turmeric was also used commonly to release copious amounts of mucous and provide instant relief from congestion. The fumes also were believed to help in hysteric fits 8 . A pinch of turmeric was also used as an insect repellent in the kitchen 9 . A paste made of turmeric alone or with neem leaves was used for ringworm, itching, eczema, and any other parasitic skin condition 8 . The Charakra Samhita section on Therapeutics states that turmeric, black pepper, long pepper, and ox bile was a common remedy for consumed poison or snake bites, up until the last stage 15 . The Charakra Samhita also provides a traditional remedy for jaundice: turmeric, triphala, neem bark, bala, licorice cooked in milk and ghee of buffalo. If this did not work and there is “found residue of morbidity still lodged in the body”, inhalation therapy was indicated. Cigars were made from turmeric paste, cinnamon, castor plant root, lac, red arsenic, deodar, yellow orpiment, and nardus, smeared with ghee and smoked. Inhalation of the fumes of barley paste with ghee was also a treatment for jaundice 15 . Hemorrhoids (piles) were treated with an ointment of turmeric, hemp leaves, onions, and warm mustard oil or linseed oil, applied externally when the hemorrhoids are painful and protruding 8 . Pastes of turmeric were used for smallpox, chickenpox, shingles, ulcers, conjunctivitis, skin blemishes, malaria, and applied to the cut placenta after the birth of a child 8 .

Turmeric has hundreds of molecular constituents, each with a variety of biological activities. There are at least 20 molecules that are anti-biotic, 14 that are known cancer preventatives, 12 that are anti-tumor, 12 are anti-inflammatory and there are at least 10 different anti-oxidants 7 . One database presented over 326 known biological activities of turmeric 12 . The rhizome is 70% carbohydrates, 7% protein, 4% minerals, and at least 4% essential oils. It also has vitamins, other alkaloids, and is about 1% resin 7 . The active ingredient in turmeric is called “curcumin”, although in its raw state turmeric only contains 2-5% curcumin 4 . Curcumin is the substance that is responsible for the biological activity of turmeric. Combined with black pepper, curcumin becomes 2000 times more potent 4 . Curcumin is now extracted from turmeric, sold as supplements, and is the basis of most scientific research.

The active properties of curcumin are best called “protective properties”. The same components that prevent deterioration of food protect living tissue from degenerating, possibly extending the life span of our bodies 7 . Clinical and laboratory research indicates that diets that include turmeric or curcumin “stabilize and protect biomolecules in the body at the molecular level”, which is shown in its anti-oxidant, anti- mutagenic, and anti-carcinogenic action 7 . These components may work by protecting a person directly, by shielding the biomolecules, or indirectly, by stimulating the natural detoxification and defense mechanisms of the body: helping the body to heal and preserve itself naturally 7 . Current statistics show that 98% of all diseases are controlled by a molecule called NF-Kappa B, a powerful protein that promotes abnormal inflammatory response in the body. Excess of NF-Kappa B can lead to Cancer, Arthritis, and a wide range of other diseases. Studies show that curcumin subdues NF-Kappa B, meaning that it may work to prevent nearly all diseases afflicting our world today 4 .

Science and Turmeric

Scientists are beginning to realize the importance of turmeric/curcumin in treating modern disease. Much research has been conducted on the various effects of curcumin in the body; the most widely researched is that of its effects on Cancer. In both India and Pakistan , where curry/turmeric is a dietary staple, boast much lower incidence of cancer than in other countries where turmeric is not regularly consumed 2 . Turmeric is considered to fight Cancer in three ways: It neutralizes those substances and conditions which can cause cancer; It directly helps a cell retain its integrity if threatened by carcinogens (a substance showing significant evidence of causing cancer or growth of cancer cells); If a tumor does grow the curcumins can often destroy it 13 . There are many reasons why turmeric helps to destroy Cancer. One of the keys to this activity is the ability of curcumin to inhibit the enzyme Topoisomerase, which is required for the replication of cancer cells. “Topoisomerase works within the nucleus of the cell, where it first binds to supercoiled DNA and then catalyzes the passage of one DNA helix through another via a transient double-stranded break. This splits the DNA and thus allows cell replication to occur. Stopping Topoisomerase stops replication which stops the spread of the problem 13 .”

Curcumin is also one of the most studied natural COX-2 inhibitors, which block an enzyme called cyclooxygenase-2. This is beneficial because the COX-2 enzyme helps make carcinogens more active in the body and allows cancerous cells to survive by growing new blood vessels 2 . In essence, curcumin completely blocks the formation of cancer causing enzymes, decreasing the likelihood of cancerous cell formation or growth. Curcumin is also rich in antioxidants, which are important disease fighting substances that help to clean up unstable oxygen molecules (free radicals) that can damage cells and cause diseases such as Cancer. Other antioxidants and COX-2 inhibitors are red grapes, green tea, rosemary, and bee propolis 2 .

Even when using more allopathic methods to treat cancer, turmeric/curcumin still helps to increase the effectiveness and decrease some of the side effects of cancer treatments. Current research suggests that including curcumin in the diet during the “initiation and or post initiation periods” of cancer significantly suppresses the development of chemically induced tumors 13 . In summary, research is showing that curcumin may be more effective treatment for cancer in the beginning phases of the disease, as well as preventative treatment throughout life before cancer even emerges. A study performed in 1992 on 16 cigarette smokers who took 1.5 g of turmeric a day for 30 days had much lower mutagenic levels in their urine than those who did not include turmeric in their diet 1 . Mutagens are substances that cause cell mutation and increase the occurrence of cancer. There is, however, some new research suggesting that taking curcumin may counteract the effectiveness of chemotherapy. Thus, many cancer treatment programs are developing a periodic schedule of use to avoid any issues 13 .

“We have not found a single cancer on which curcumin does not work”, states Dr. Bharat Aggarwal, who conducts cancer research at the Jawaharlal Nehru Centre for Advanced Scientific Research in Bangalore , India 4 . Ayurveda especially recommends turmeric for cancers of the female reproductive system, specifically breast and uterine cancer, and to treat benign tumors as well 11 . Although the current research looks promising, there have been very few long term tests performed on large quantities of humans. Turmeric was recently nominated by the National Cancer Institute for more study so we can look forward to many more research findings in the future.

Turmeric is also a powerful anti-inflammatory herb. It has been shown to be helpful in the treatment of Arthritis, Rheumatoid Arthritis, Osteoarthritis, injuries, trauma, and stiffness from both under activity and over activity 10 . It is also helpful after surgery to decrease pain, inflammation and accelerate healing. One study conducted in 1986 showed that a dosage of 1200 mg of curcumin a day was more effective in reducing post-surgical inflammation than either the placebo group or anti-inflammatory medication normally prescribed 5 . In India , turmeric is considered the standard anti-inflammatory, and yogis use it to help keep their tendons and ligaments free from injury and to assist in their asana practice 6 . In the same way, it minimizes pain and inflammation related to any kind of exercise or strenuous activity. Majeed states: “Perhaps Turmeric’s most important anti-inflammatory mechanism centers on its effects on the Prostaglandins (PGs), a large family of potent lipids produced by the body. PG1 and PG3 calm the body while PG2 inflames the body. Turmeric is a potent inhibitor of cyclooxygenase 5-lipoxygenase and also 5-HETE production in neutrophils. Reducing these enzymes means less arachidonic acid metabolism, which means less PG2, which means less pain and inflammation 7 .” Some sources suggest that turmeric/curcumin is most effective for acute inflammation, and not for chronic 1 . Many sources recommend turmeric for Arthritis but the scientific evidence is still unclear and much more research is underway.

Turmeric also has a special action to purify and nourish the blood and skin. External application stops pain and swelling, heals wounds rapidly, and treats many skin diseases ranging from acne to leprosy. The classic way to apply turmeric topically is as an “Ubtan”: a blend of turmeric, chick-pea flour, sesame or almond oil, a little fresh cream and honey. This will clear up skin blemishes, and increase the natural glow and radiance of the skin 16 . Turmeric essential oil works wonderfully as an external antibiotic to prevent infections in wounds. A nice formula for a wound healing salve is a mixture of olive oil, beeswax, tea tree oil, aloe, turmeric, arnica, slippery elm, red clover, thyme oil, and vitamin E 9 . Since turmeric is bitter and anti-inflammatory, it is excellent for hot skin diseases, red rashes, and especially wet eczema 16 . Turmeric essential oil, mixed with citronella, tulsi, and vanillin, works as a powerful insect repellent, and is a natural alternative to D.E.E.T, the most common chemical insect repellent commercially available. Studies show that D.E.E.T. is extremely toxic, hazardous to the environment, and actually kills plant and insect life that it contacts 3 .

Turmeric also protects the liver from toxins and pathogens. It is known to both destroy m toxins in the liver, and to rebuild the liver after a toxic attack 16 . Turmeric increases the secretion and movement of bile, and may prevent all forms of liver disease. Excessive use of drugs and/or alcohol can tax the liver and lead to liver diseases 16 . One study shows that curcumin blocks some of the harmful side effects of cigarette smoke, and prevents dangerous chemical formation after eating processed food 11 . It is also helpful in treating food poisoning. Traditionally, about 5 grams of Turmeric is taken with a glass of whey, morning and evening, for a month to activate and rebuild a liver 8 . Another good liver remedy could be based on Turmeric, Kutki root, and Milk Thistle seeds. In essence, turmeric helps keep the liver healthy so it can do its job of keeping the body detoxified.

Ayurveda uses turmeric to purify and move the blood, as it is a wonderful alterative. It helps to remove stagnant blood while stimulating the formation of new blood tissue 6 . Turmeric regulates menses, and decreases the intensity and pain of menstrual periods, and of uterine tumors. Turmeric is a mild and supportive uterine stimulant and its many actions on the liver suggest that it may assist in balancing hormone levels as well 16 .

Turmeric also plays a role in pregnancy and birthing in India . Traditionally, it is said that taking turmeric when pregnant will ensure that the child will always have beautiful skin 16 . (However, turmeric is a mild uterine stimulant, so there is a chance of over stimulation; it is essential to consult a healthcare practitioner before taking any herbs during pregnancy.) Turmeric taken in the last two weeks of pregnancy in warm, organic milk helps to expedite a simple birth, while increasing the health of the mother and child as well. Turmeric is also an analgesic (pain reliever) and is sometimes used in natural childbirth to decrease pain 16 .

Turmeric also has a special action to help the entire Gastro-Intestinal system by increasing intestinal flora and generate healthy digestion 6 . It is traditionally used for weak stomachs, poor digestion, dyspepsia, parasites, abdominal cramps, to normalize metabolism, to help digest protein and breakdown of fats, to increase absorption, and the ability of the stomach to withstand digestive acids 6 . Turmeric is also a carminative: it helps to decrease gas and distention. According to Ayurveda, plants that treat digestion are often the most important herbs of all since digestion is the basis of mental and physical health. Prashanti de Jager states, “Turmeric is one of the best carminatives because though it leans towards being heating-pungent, it is very balanced and does not aggravate any of the doshas if taken in normal amounts, a few grams per day 16 .” As a vulnerary it also helps to nurture and heal mucous membranes; it has a strong protective effect against food and materials that are corrosive to the stomach and intestines as from food poisoning. In a 1989 double blind study (the participants and researches did not know which groups were taking the herb or the placebo) conducted in Thailand , 500mg capsules of curcumin were given to 116 adults suffering from indigestion at six different hospitals. Stunning results showed that 90% of those taking the curcumin felt full or partial relief after seven days, while 53% of the placebo group felt relief 1 .

Another major use of turmeric is support of the respiratory system. As an anti-oxidant it protects the lungs from pollution and toxins. It also helps the oxygen transfer from the lungs to the blood. Turmeric with ghee is traditionally used to get rid of cough and to treat asthma 8 . It also supports the heart in many ways. A study conducted in 1992 shows that turmeric may assist in lowering cholesterol and prevent Atherosclerosis (blockage of arteries that can cause heart attack and/or stroke) 12 . Animal studies have shown that turmeric lowers cholesterol levels and inhibits the oxidation of LDL (“bad cholesterol”, responsible for clogging of arteries). When LDL becomes oxidized, it creates deposits in the walls of blood vessels and contributes to the formation of arteriosclerosis. Turmeric may also prevent platelet buildup along the walls of injured blood vessels, another common cause of blood clots and artery blockage that can result in heart attacks and strokes 12 .

Studies are also underway regarding turmeric’s believed effects in treating and preventing neurological diseases such as Multiple Sclerosis and Alzheimer’s Disease. This belief generates from the realization that elderly Indian people who eat turmeric on a regular basis are far less likely to develop these ailments than those who do not eat turmeric. In fact, Alzheimer’s Disease is 4.4 times less common among older adults in India than in the United States 4 . It has been noted that people taking anti-inflammatory medication for Arthritis are less likely to develop Alzheimer’s Disease 1 . Since turmeric possesses such a powerful anti-inflammatory action, scientists speculate that it most likely will have a preventative effect on such disorders. More research is needed in this area to prove such theories.

New research also suggests that turmeric may play a vital role in fighting HIV/AIDS, particularly HIV, Type 1 10 . In a recent study at the Jawaharlal Nehru Centre for Advanced Scientific Research in Bangalore , India , when scientists ‘fed’ curcumin to HIV-infected cells in the laboratory, the virus stopped replicating 17 . Several studies have shown that people who have HIV and AIDS are deficient in many antioxidant vitamins and minerals, and it is believed that it is the powerful antioxidant properties of turmeric that combat the disease 17 . “Curcumin’s antioxidant properties will protect your DNA from the ravages of the virus. It’s also antimicrobial, so it will help prevent the many opportunistic illnesses associated with HIV and AIDS,” says Dr. Susan Kowalsky, N.D., a naturopathic doctor in Norwich , Vermont 18 . In a study at Harvard Medical School , research showed that curcumin prevented the reproduction of HIV by blocking a specific gene that activates the virus and causes it to spread. Another study showed that it may help decrease the reproduction of HIV 18 . This is a currently major topic of research, so we can look forward to updates in the near future.

Turmeric can obviously stand the test of time. It has been worshipped, reveled and revered by people for centuries, and still today it is one of the most significant players in the prevention of serious disease as well as the general afflictions of living. Much more research is underway to prove scientifically what the ancient people of India have known for centuries: that turmeric is one of the most powerful plants on the planet. Whether suffering from an acute or chronic disease, aches and pains, bumps and bruises, or as preventative maintenance, turmeric can and should be utilized by everyone on a regular basis. In the words of David Frawley: “If I had only a single herb to depend upon for all possible health and dietary needs, I would without much hesitation choose the Indian spice turmeric 16 .” Without a doubt, this writer feels exactly the same.

References

1. Whole Health MD.com , Article: “Turmeric”.

http://www.wholehealthmd.com/refshelf/substances_view/1,1525,10062,00.html

2. Whole Health MD.com , Article: “Cancer Fighters in Your Spice Rack,” 3/21/2001 .

http://www.wholehealthmd.com/news/viewarticle/1,1513,844,00.html

3. The Wikipedia Encyclopeida

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Turmeric

4. Sundaram, Viji. Article: “Don’t Go Easy on Turmeric: It Prevents and Cures Cancer”: India-West , 2005

5. HealthNotes , Article: “Turmeric”, 2002.

http://www.drugstore.com/templates/hnotes/default.asp?catid=41779&aid=33…

6. Frawley, David & Vasant Lad, The Yoga of Herbs . Lotus Light Publications, 1993.

7. Majeed, Muhammed; Vladimir Badmaev; Uma Shivakumar; R.Rajendran, eds., Curcuminoids ; antioxidant phytonutrients. NutriScience Publishers, Inc, 1995.

8. Nadkarni, K.M., The Indian Materia Medica. Bombay Popular Prakashan, 1976.

9. Kaushik, Purshotam, Haridra (Turmeric): Antibacterial Potential . Chowkhamba Sanskrit Series Office, Varanasi , 2003.

10. Williamson, Elizabeth , ed., Major Herbs of Ayurveda. Churchill Livingstone, 2002.

11. Pook, Sally, “ Curries May Help to Combat Cancer”. Article: news.telegraph.co.uk

12. University of Maryland Medical Center , Article: “Turmeric”.

http://www.umm.edu/altmed/ConsHerbs/Turmericch.html
13. Cancer Research , Article: “Chemopreventive Effect of Curcumin , a Naturally Occurring Anti-Inflammatory Agent, during the Promotion/Progression Stages of Colon Cancer ” Cancer Research 59, 597-601, February 1, 1999 .

14. Cole GM , Lim GP , Yang F , Teter B , Begum A , Ma Q , Harris-White ME , Frautschy SA . “Prevention of Alzheimer’s disease: Omega-3 fatty acid and phenolic anti-oxidant interventions.” Neurobiol Aging. October 30, 2005 .

15. Dash, Bhagwan and R.K. Sharma, Caraka Samhita . Chowkhamba Sanskrit Series Office, Varanasi ,India , 2001.

16. Prashanti de Jager, Article: “Turmeric: The Ayurvedic Spice of Life”, 2003.
17. SciDev.net , Article: “Turmeric can Combat malaria, Cancer Virus, and HIV”. March 6, 2006 .

http://www.scidev.net/news/index.cfm?fuseaction=printarticle&itemid=1987…

18. Mother Nature.com, Article: “HIV and AIDS”.http://www.mothernature.com/Library/Bookshelf/Books/23/102.cfm

19. Pub-Med, Article: “In Vitro and in Vivo Anti-Tumoral Effect of Curcumin Against Melanoma Cells.” http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve&db=pubmed&dop…

 

Nature’s Bounty: Currying Favor With the Brain

By Daniel A. Marano, published on November 01, 2009 – last reviewed on May 27, 2011

It is becoming increasingly difficult to make the distinction between food and drug. As scientists gain the ability to study the chemical components of food—notably fruits and vegetables—and trace their actions and interactions in our bodies at a molecular level, they’re finding that they contain potent bioactive compounds that have the capacity to improve overall health and even treat hard-core diseases.

The most important of these compounds also often create the most colorful of plants. They are classified as polyphenols, flavonoids being the most widely studied in the lab. You hopefully consume them in the form of fruits and berries; wine, tea and coffee; olives and so many more edibles. There are thousands of them. Their raison d’etre is to protect plants from damage ranging from solar radiation to fungal disease. The often-colorful agents prove to be just as important to the protection and longevity of our own bodies. And few prove to be more dazzling or potent than those found in turmeric.

Turmeric belongs to the ginger family, and the rhizome looks like a miniature version of fresh ginger. Although it lacks ginger’s zing, it boasts a distinctive orange flesh that has the ability to stain bright yellow everything that comes into contact with it. Native to Southeast Asia, turmeric is used extensively in both medicine and cooking. It can be found fresh at many Asian markets in the U.S. and, increasingly, in the produce section of larger organic markets.

 

Dried and pulverized, the turmeric root becomes the spice that imparts the yellow color to American mustard and curry powder. That might be all you know of it. But across Asia and Africa, turmeric has long been prized both as a fabric dye and as a medicine noted for antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties.

Turmeric’s scientific name is Curcuma longa, and the polyphenolic compound that imparts the yellow color is called curcumin. It has become the focus of much research in the U.S. and elsewhere for its ability to fight inflammation and cancer and to interfere with the onset of cognitive decline associated with neurodegenerative diseases, particularly Alzheimer’s.

Fresh turmeric contains no more than 4 percent curcumin, which, on its own, is poorly absorbed by the body. But lipids increase the rate of absorption—just as butter and olive oil boost the bioavailability of similarly colorful and healthful phenolic compounds like lycopene in tomatoes and carotenoids in carrots.

Turmeric plays an important role in traditional Chinese medicine as a component of herbal formulas that fight stress and depression. Ongoing research has shown curcumin to greatly reduce the effects of stress and the inflammatory cascades implicated in depression and other behavioral disorders.

In studies of Alzheimer’s disease, curcumin is proving to halt the buildup of amyloid-beta plaque that clogs the brain’s neural pathways and triggers the condition. Amyloid-betas are basically chains of amino acids, or proteins. They are to neurodegenerative diseases what fatty arterial plaque is to heart disease.

Given the limited bioavailability of curcumin, many of the most promising studies are now looking at synergistic pairings of the agent with other compounds to boost its power. The Journal of Alzheimer’s Disease recently reported a study looking at the effects of combining curcumin with vitamin D3, a nutrient we make from exposure to sunshine .

Using both naturally occurring curcuminoids and more bioavailable synthetic versions, scientists at UCLA and at UC Riverside were able to boost beneficial immune activity in Alzheimer’s patients. The spice supercharged the immune system’s macrophages to hunt down and bind with the harmful amyloid-beta plaque, taking the toxic substance out of commission.

Curcumin appears to target multiple facets of Alzheimer’s in addition to binding amyloid molecules to be carted off by the immune system. In separate studies at UCLA’s Alzheimer’s Research Laboratory, neuroscientists Greg Cole and Sally Frautschy are scrutinizing the role curcumin plays in safeguarding the brain. In a recent issue of the Journal of Neuroscience, they reported the ability of curcumin, combined with omega-3 fatty acids, specifically DHA, to deliver a one-two punch to amyloid-beta plaque, combating both its production and its harmful buildup in brain tissue.

At the University of Michigan, chemist Ayyalusamy Ramamoorthy is focused on elucidating curcumin’s general operating mechanisms. “Very interesting things are happening at the cellular membrane level, with the lipid and polyphenol interaction rather than the protein interactions,” he reports. With the use of advanced nuclear magnetic resonance imaging techniques his lab has pioneered, he is homing in on how curcumin fortifies cell membranes. His interest in the spice is not accidental; he grew up in India, where he was given turmeric-infused milk as a cold remedy and the “holy powder” is prized for its ability to fight congestion and heal wounds.

Curcumin is a kind of molecular disciplinarian most comfortable ensconced in the fatty membranes of cell walls, where it can help the cell resist viruses and even malignancy, says Ramamoorthy: “The membrane goes from being crazy and floppy to being more disciplined and ordered, so information flow through it can be controlled.” Even at low concentrations, the spice exerts profound effects on cellular membranes, he reports in the Journal of the American Chemical Society. It could be of value not just against Alzheimer’s but other degenerative disorders like Parkinson’s and even diabetes.

Ramamoorthy and colleagues are thinking both smaller and broader. They are creating nanoparticles of curcumin and using NMR imaging to compare curcumin to other powerful plant compounds like resveratrol (in grapes and red wine) and capsaicin (the heat in red chilies). The goal is to illuminate just how phenolic compounds grab our attention—not just by their color but by their ability to improve human health, longevity, and cognition.

Nice Spice

In addition to its ability to combat neurodegeneration, curcumin has many other potential health and medical uses now under investigation.

• Herpes infection: Studies have shown that low levels of the spice interfere with replication of the herpes simplex virus.
• Gastrointestinal cancer: Trials in patients with colorectal cancer show that oral supplementation can produce bioactive levels of the compound in the gut.
• Arthritis: Curcumin is under investigation in numerous labs for its ability to block signaling pathways that lead to inflammation.

Ayurveda Helps Chernobyl Victims

Written By: Dr. Shantala Priyadarshini, BAMS, MS (Shalakya)

Chernobyl’s 15th anniversary- This day the 26th of April marks the 15th anniversary of the world’s worst technological disaster-Chernobyl and even today humanity is – paying heavily for this. We are frantically seeking answers to eliminate some consequences created by this accident and to relieve the suffering of those affected directly or indirectly.

Chernobyl- in 1986 the name of a once obscure Soviet plant became a global household word, a new entry on the list of late-20th century technological accident and a rallying cry for all those who fear and oppose nuclear power. This explosion and fire that destroyed reactor No. 4 at the Chernobyl plant in the Ukraine spread radioactive fallout around much of the world It’s time every intellect asked themselves ‘is it appropriate’ before adopting any new wonder drug or technology as an answer to challenges faced by modern man.

Remember the words of President John F. Kennedy when he spoke about the impending dangers that could be caused by nuclear energy being misused or wrongly utilized. Kennedy said “the number of children and grandchildren with cancer in their bones, with leukemia in their blood, or with poison in their lungs might seem statistically small to some, in comparison with natural health hazards, but this is not a natural health hazard–and it is not a statistical issue.

The loss of even one human life, or the malformation of even one baby–who may be born long after we are gone–should be of concern to us all. Our children and grandchildren are not merely statistics toward which we can be indifferent.” Though people are familiar with both the terms Ayurveda and Chernobyl the connection would be beyond comprehension. Ayurveda for many only means an ancient system of medicine, which originated in India some 5000 years ago.

But one should also note that Ayurveda – that has stood the test of time – is a system of medicine suitable not only for the future but also helps eliminate suffering today from all over the world. Principles of this scientific art could be the best method to be adopted to achieve perfect health for one and all. Recently, Ayurveda was of great help in alleviating the suffering of the Chernobyl victims. Here an attempt is made to discuss some problems of Chernobyl how the timeless Ayurveda helped and continues to help with a modern tradegy.

That bright summer spring morning, a Saturday, in 1986, some people in Belarus (near Chernobyl) came out on rooftops to enjoy morning air instead they suffered from nuclear tan caused by the thickly polluted air from the exploded reactors in Chernobyl. A few hours latter, they were taken away in an ambulance, convulsing with uncontrollable vomiting. Soon many were coughing, throwing up and complaining of headaches and a metallic taste in their mouth.

This, which started then, is still having its effects not only on the environment but also on the life of so many all around the world. There is a disturbing charge made, contrasting to the widely accepted belief that only 31 persons died from exposure to high radiation levels. Vladimir Chernousenko, Scientific Director of the Ukrainian Academy of Sciences’ Task Force for the Rectification of the Consequences of the Accident, in his 1991 book Chernobyl, Insight from the Inside, dispels this myth, asserts that between 7,000 and 10,000 volunteers have already died from such high intensity exposure.

But his most serious charge is that the accident released the lethal contents of 80% of the reactor core (a total of 192 tons) rather than the 3 % figure announced to the world. This means that the true extent of the potential damage had been understated by orders of magnitude! The radiation released was roughly equivalent to the explosion of one thousand Hiroshima bombs says one report.

The total radioactivity of the material released from the reactor was estimated to be 200 times that of the combined releases from the atomic bombs dropped on Hiroshima and Nagasaki, according to a 1995 World Health Organization (WHO) report on the health consequences of the Chernobyl accident. We could summarize the problems under various heads as – ecological effects of radiation on soil, water and air; health hazards, and socio-economic problems.

Effects on environment
During the estimation of radio-ecological research of the Chernobyl catastrophe the main factors to be considered are: caesium 137, and & cesium 134 the most significant long-term radionuclide contaminant emitted during the Chernobyl explosion, has a half-life of approximately 30 years. Even its practical effect on agricultural and forestlands is estimated to range between 8 and 20 years. Iodine-131 with a half-life of eight days; and several plutonium isotopes with half-lives ranging from 13 to 24,400 years.

About 85% of the total release consisted of radionuclides with half-life less than one month, 13% with half-lives of several months, 1% with half-lives of about 30 years, and 0.001% with half-life more than 50 years. At first, the bulk of the emissions settled on more than 100,000 square kilometers -mainly concentrated in the three Soviet Republics of Byelorussia, the Ukraine and Russia. The refusal of the Soviet authorities to recognize the true extent of the contamination of farmland spread radiation illness to all the former Soviet republics.

Cs -137 continues to stay in the upper ground level is potentially accessible for plants for a very long time. Sr-90 -half transformed in free form also could be easily accessible for plants &, is highly capable of getting included in the food chains of humans, (bio-magnification) to get into body, get accumulated there, raising the risk of health. It has already been discovered that grains potatoes milk etc. has presence of the above in higher concentration than what is safe.

People still living near the Chernobyl power plant continuously obtain contaminated wood – a major repository for radionuclides – for their own use or to sell as building material or firewood. It has also been reported that contaminated food has been exported from the polluted regions, processed elsewhere and re-imported as clean food. Such activities have contributed to the continued spread of radionuclide contamination across the affected countries and have increased the exposure of the general population to the dangers of radioactivity.

Huge tracts of formerly productive agricultural and forestland have been rendered uninhabitable and unusable for generations as a result of the Chernobyl disaster. The poisoning of the land has created dire health problems and economic devastation. Ukraine and Belarus were some of the worst affected areas, with water, soil, food being contaminated by dangerously radioactive material. While Belarus received about 70% of Chernobyl’s radioactive fallout covering 20% of it’s land.

Over 1.5 million people including 160,000 children became victims of radiation poisoning, birth defects, leukemia, cancer, thyroid disease, anemia, loss of vision and appetite, depressed immune system, now called ‘Chernobyl AIDS’.

Health hazards
Perhaps the group most at risk from its exposure to radiation following the explosion was the group involved in extinguishing the fire itself and undertaking immediate recovery work. They have become known as the “liquidators”. According to WHO, however, medical monitoring of the liquidators within the three affected countries is already indicating growing morbidity (illness, disease, invalidity) and mortality rates among this group.

WHO IPHECA figures suggest that there are some 800,000 liquidators in total: The main health concerns for the liquidators include cardiovascular and heart diseases, lung cancers, gastrointestinal inflammation, tumors and leukemia. Stress and anxiety about whether they have been affected may also be a significant factor to account for the increase in disease in addition to the liquidators’ exposure to radiation itself. Children, especially those born between 1981 and 1987, are the most susceptible to developing Chernobyl-related diseases.

Both children and embryos exhibit a particular sensitivity to the effects of radiation. Of children’s diseases related to Chernobyl, thyroid cancers have seen the sharpest increase and are of the most serious concern. It has been stated that it has increased by 100 times pre accident level. UNICEF has assessed global statistics for Belarus between 1990 and 1994 and has noted significant increases in many types of health disorders of the child population.

Disorders of the nervous system and sensory organs have increased by 43 per cent, blood circulation illnesses by 43 per cent, disorders of the digestive organs by 28 per cent, disorders of the genito- urinary system by 39 per cent, disorders of the bone, muscle and connective tissue system by 62 per cent, illnesses of the hemogenic (blood producing) organs by 24 per cent, iron-deficiency anemia by 10 per cent, endocrine system disorders by 8 per cent, diabetes by 28 per cent, congenital heart and circulatory diseases by 25 per cent and malignant tumors by 38 per cent since 1988.

In the contaminated zones the divorce rate is higher, there are more problems in relationships between parent and child, and there is more alcoholism compared with the levels in a control group from non-contaminated areas. Furthermore, the social system is increasingly disintegrating as the young try to leave. According to UNESCO surveys, children who live in the contaminated zones in Ukraine are considered to have a life expectancy five to seven years lower than children surveyed from non-contaminated areas.

Children from the contaminated territories have higher anxiety levels, they are concerned about their health and the health of their family, and are more introverted than their peers in non-contaminated areas. Interestingly, however, children in the contaminated zones are also higher achievers than others, as success in school is a means of leaving these zones.

The minimum estimate for the number of people forced to leave their homes because of radiation dangers following the Chernobyl explosion is almost 400,000: 150,000 in Belarus, 150,000 in Ukraine, and 75,000 in the Russian Federation. These internally displaced persons have suffered the hardships typical of other refugees and internally displaced persons: they were forced to flee their homes and established community structures at very short notice, unaware of where they were going or how they would end up and having to endure temporary shelter and extremely poor living conditions.

Since everything in their homes had been contaminated by radiation they were forced to abandon their homes with only the clothes on their back. Upon reaching their final destination, they were required to remove and burn the one set of clothes they had been allowed to bring. And when the enemy is invisible, as is the case for radiation, fears become all the more difficult to counter and weigh all the more heavily on the minds of the people.

United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) studies point to a marked increase in stress-related illnesses and social dysfunction as a result of Chernobyl. This lack of information or, in some cases, exposure to contradictory information, the uncertainty regarding present and future health effects and the implications for future generations and, in some cases, the stress of relocation have all had an effect on the psychological well being of the populations affected by Chernobyl.

In the case of Chernobyl, as in many other radiological incidents, psychological effects have predominated. The nature of these effects is complicated and it is wrong to dismiss them as irrational or to label them as “radiophobia”. Many factors contribute to the development of this widespread public response. Among other things, there may be the historical association with nuclear bombs, or a lack of openness in the past on the part of governments, or the absence of intelligible explanations by scientists.

Even physicians and others who might be looked to for guidance have often been confused. The result is that rumors multiply, fears increase, and any health problem is quickly attributed to a nuclear cause. Uncorroborated narratives may become commonly held wisdom and unverifiable statistical data may be accepted with insufficient scrutiny.

Answers from Ayurveda
Three years ago more Indian vaidyas started treating the victims of Chernobyl, 90 of them started pancha karma, rasayana as advised by the vaidyas and results looked promising. More holistic projects should be planned and executed, endeavoring to isolate, treat and reduce illnesses associated with the Chernobyl accident, whether caused directly by radiation or by the profound stress and the anxiety that has characterized life over the past 15 years in the affected countries.

This will involve proper Ayurvedic diagnosis done by experienced & learned vaidyas, the provision and maintenance of adequate pancha karma equipment, medicine and treatment facilities, and programs to address stress and its ramifications. Mass education to adopt the principles that have been proved to improve immunity, manage stress thereby restoring normalcy. Perfect health may sound unimaginable in the context of this nuclear catastrophe but this is the time for using ancient wisdom to achieve the incredible.

Ayurveda is the most ancient and scientific system of natural medicine. It advocates a wide variety of approaches that simultaneously influence mind, physiology, behavior, and environment to maintain optimal health and promote longevity. It deals not only with the social and psychological consequences of the catastrophe but all aspects stated above. Usually the scientific community accepts and adopts the well trodden path but now we need to research the literature of this ancient system of medicine to find better alternatives.

According to Ayurveda, diseases arise in the body when one acts against nature, or against the natural healthful balance of the body. This concept is called pragnapradha (adopting wrong practices knowing that they are harmful) Charaka-one of the most revered of the seers has given many thought provoking and adaptable answers in such situations and today the world is looking at this holistic medicine not just to manage some problems caused by this disaster but also in many other conditions.

Charak Samhita gives an elaborate description in a chapter titled “janpadodwamsa” (conditions leading to mass destruction of life) with regard to pollution of land, (desha) air (vayu), water (jala), vagrant changes in weather conditions (vikrutha kala), the reasons & remedies of the above have been dealt in detail from which we could adopt many beneficial techniques.

If the head of the state (king, politicians, people in power etc.) is power crazy, greedy, dishonest, immodest, lethargic, is a home for all vices (kama, krodha, loba, moha mada, matsarya) then he is ruined by them. His followers are also doomed and this results in wrong utilization of nature, which culminates in mass destruction. The treatise further describes the features of the polluted -air, water, weather and land.

Mass destruction of people, property, pollution, famine, earth quake, floods etc natural calamities, man made disasters all need to be tackled by adopting many measures like–pancha karma, rasayana, sadvrtha, achara rasayana, mani, mantra, yagna, japa, homa, etc. These principles, if adopted suitably as per each individual circumstance, as recommended by Ayurveda, there will be many benefits.

Some benefits include, youth, improved intelligence & creativity, simple living associated with high thinking, improved sensory perception, better performance of motor organs, improved luster-complexion, which promises popularity, brilliance & confidence, charming looks, vitality, name-fame, joy, improved immunity, faster recovery from physical-mental ailments, freedom from fear of death & diseases. Here an effort has been made to explain the above in brief.

Pancha Karma & Rasayana
Pancha karma means five types of therapies-it includes-3 phases–preparatory phase (the person is made suitable to under go pancha karma it includes deepana, pachana, shenaha, swedana), the pancha karma proper which has vamana, (emesis) virechan, (causes loose stools) two types of basti (different medications given through enema) and nasya, (medication through the nose) followed by post pancha karma phase – i.e., sansarjanakarma (recommended diet and habits are to be followed as per instructions).

After this it’s advisable to start rasayana according to each individual’s need. Rasayana includes chyavan prash, brahmi rasyana, ashwagandha rasayana, medhyarasayana, bhallataka rasyana etc Ayurvedic anti-oxidants like amla, haldi, ashwagandha, bacopa monnieri, yasti madhu, guduchi, etc., – in fact, most herbs (present in these rasayanas) are loaded with beneficial anti-oxidants which act as vigilant arsenal to protect our bodies from oxidative damage.

Ashwagandha, also known as Indian ginseng or winter cherry, is a powerful adaptogen, helping the body to cope with stress and maintain its natural equilibrium. Ashwagandha, like amla, is loaded with bioflavonoids. Turmeric or Curcuma longa, is another Ayurvedic anti-oxidant with strong anti-inflammatory and anti-infective properties. It can be easily incorporated into the daily diet by adding it as a spice to many foods. Ayurveda has lots to offer some explored some yet to be explored.

After pancha karma, following rules of swasth vritha (healthy circle) which includes-dinacharya (daily routine) rtucharya (seasonal routine) achara rasayana (principles of virtuous living) and rasayana (Ayurvedic tonics are different than other tonics -they are best if advised after examination by a vaidya) helps to balance the mental, physical and emotional aspects of being human, paving the way to perfect health.

Pancha karma aims at eliminating accumulated impurities in the physiology and restoring balance before any imbalance manifests as disease. And in case of diseases already manifested, helps detoxify. Impurities accumulate in the body from stress and strain, unhealthy diet and behavior, aging, environmental pollution and other factors. These impurities prevent proper functioning of the physiology; hinder proper digestion & metabolism and obstruct the channels of circulation and communication in the body.

Rasayana promotes vitality, long life, and the prevention of disease. This can be recommended in both healthy and sick and the benefits are multiple. Sushrut Samhita, another Ayurvedic classic work also gives a scientific explanation of congenital deformities, it’s causes and how best to prevent them. This work adds a lot to our present day understanding of many disorders, and we need to look at it with much more respect, that’s due.

For further understanding of these, it’s recommended that those really interested should read original Sanskrit texts – not translated – which can be more misleading. Initial scientific research done in many post graduate centers in India and abroad on pancha karma rasayana has shown improved cardiovascular functioning, improved appetite and digestion, increased vitality, increased stamina and improved mental clarity. And as assured above results have manifested in victims of Chernobyl, which has made Russia welcome Ayurveda officially into their country today.

Homa was used in the ancient Vedic system of knowledge, in spheres such as bio-energetics, psychotherapy, medicine, agriculture, including bio-genetics, climate technology and interplanetary communication. One form of Homa is Agnihotra (Agni = fire, hotra = healing) is a Vedic ritual, known as a scientific process of purification of the atmosphere with the cosmic element -fire. This creates pure nutritional and medicinal atmosphere that prevents growth of pathogenic bacteria.

The subtle vibrations emanating during the ritual fills the surrounding atmosphere with vibrations of love, peace and purity. Adopting the use of Agnihotra has helped yield better quality, quantity of farm products; it makes plants & animals happy, healthy, and disease resistant. It helps purify water reservoirs. Agnihotra is done at both sunrise and sunset. Dried cow dung, ghee (purified butter) and rice are burnt in a pyramid-shaped copper receptacle of a prescribed size, accompanied with the chanting of the mantra (a word-sound combination).

Cow dung contains a substance similar to penicillin, which has a disinfecting effect and reduces bacteria. Its property of reducing radioactive radiation is described in Vedic writings. Many families perform Agnihotra regularly in India, benefiting most during the Bhopal gas tragedy. After the Chernobyl catastrophe a group of scientists experimented in Yugoslavia with Agnihotra and discovered there was no longer any sign of radioactivity in the immediate vicinity, following the combustion of the required ingredients in the copper pyramid In the area bordering the Soviet Union people threatened by radioactive fallout sealed their huts with cow dung and was thus able to protect them from radiation.

It is also known that NASA space capsules are coated with a thin layer of cow dung to protect them against radiation. The Agnihotra smoke binds detrimental bits of radiation in the atmosphere and neutralizes their radioactive effect. In Agnihotra nothing is destroyed, only transformed. In a polluted environment the elements of the earth begin to change: the structure of the chemical elements and their connection to molecules are restructured.

These fine material changes during Agnihotra can be seen with the help of Kirlian photography. This list stated above is merely indicative and not exhaustive, the benefits of Agnihotra and other Homas are multi-dimensional. Ayurveda advocates many measures to tackle these disasters and treats the individual – not various organs. It looks at the body as a whole; mind, physiology, nutrition, senses, emotions, and also the environment. So the total picture is taken into consideration when somebody is sick, in order to set it right. Some of the important factors to be followed are outlined.

Diet- Food As Medicine
In the Ayurvedic tradition, food, herbs and spices are our sustenance and our pharmacy. What we eat plays an integral role in the balancing act that, according to Ayurveda, is the key to health. The basic diet is essentially made up of natural foods free of chemicals and pesticides ‘One man’s food is another man’ s poison ‘ & ‘ you are what you eat ‘ Ayurveda agrees with the above and diet is known to play a very crucial role not only in maintaining perfect health but also in restoring it.

Ayurveda recognizes that each individual ‘s needs are different based on many factors like, prakruti (different inborn nature-is different in each person), agni, (digestive capacity) bala, (energy, immunity, will power) satmya (dietary habits) desha (weather & customs of different places) vayah (age) kala (seasonal variations), etc. and accordingly they should consume food and medicine. Ayurveda believes in treating an individual not a disease, so treatment, diet, exercises, rasayana etc are different in different individuals suffering from same disease A diet high in fiber has been shown to exhibit protective actions against some types of cancer, as well as cardiovascular disease.

Excessive consumption of sugar and carbohydrates, as well as processed, preserved and devitalized foods, dramatically compromises the immune system, a critical player in maintaining health and guarding against diseases. Ayurveda advocates consuming dishes comprising all 6 tastes daily, and moderation in consuming sugar, salt etc to maintain health. Diet suitable to Chernobyl victims should be decided as per each individual as stated in Ayurvedic classical treatises.

Exercise
Exercise done in moderation (not stress producing pace), as per season, individual requirement is good not only to stimulate circulation, but helps also to cope better with stress, (Stress can profoundly weaken the immune system;) A very elaborate description has been given in our shastra regarding exercises, it’s benefits, what should be done before andafter performing them. Undoubtedly exercises could be adopted for best results to achieve, preserve and, promote health.

Yoga
Pranayama (breathing exercises) acts on all aspects, physical, mental, and spiritual levels of human beings can be very helpful if practiced regularly and sincerely. It is very useful when you feel threatened as it helps regain one’s calm. So the victims of Chernobyl would benefit immensely by this. [Yoga asanas (postures), pranayama and all aspects of yoga like the yama-niyama, dhyana, etc. are to become part of life, should be learnt from & done under the guidance of an experienced guru for best results.] Research has shown us time and again that regular proper practice of Yoga bestows peace, prosperity, perfect health, improved immunity and many more benefits most suitable to tackle the problems of Chernobyl.

Positive Influence on the Environment
Color, gem, mantra chikitsa, music, and aroma therapies that have positive influence on individuals and environment as a whole could also be adopted. Ayurveda recommends the following to create positive influence on the environment – mass prayers, hearing spiritual discourses, chanting bhajans, singing, listening to devotional and patriotic songs, following achara rasayana (rules for virtuous living).

Just as the term “Chernobyl” has become synonymous throughout the world with our fear of technological catastrophe, Ayurveda has come to be looked up as a panacea for many ailments. Chernobyl symbolizes a penance for our unchecked desire for progress and Ayurveda, a scientific life style formulated by selfless seers of yore has come to mean a blessing for modern ails. The humanitarian trauma, a tragedy of international magnitude caused by Chernobyl is as frighteningly unnatural and difficult to quantify.

It can only be addressed through a strong and consistent response. This is very natural, simple yet powerful to tackle all aspects of this disaster. Ayurveda strongly advocates perfect health for all (Sarve-jano sukino bhavantho-sarve santho niramaya) and if the principles of this shastra are truly adopted, the dream of achieving perfect health for all can become a reality soon. The then Secretary General of United Nations- Boutros Boutros-Ghali in a message to the international conference, on the 10th anniversary of Chernobyl -stated, “Even today, its health, social, economic, and environmental dimensions, both immediate and long term, remain to be defined.”

More than five years later, the above statement is still true. And it’s said that Ayurveda is an ocean of knowledge and today we need to explore it’s depth and bring back the promised ambrosia to eliminate all suffering, fear of death & diseases, to ensure lasting peace and prosperity.

This article is for educational purposes only. It is not intended to treat, diagnose, prescribe or heal any health condition. It is not intended to substitute for care from healthcare professionals.

?2001 Dr. T.R. Priyadarshini, BAMS, MA (Sanskrit); MS (Shalakya), teaches at theMysore Ayurvedic Medical College and is also involved with clinical & theoretical research. She has been practicing Ayurveda for the past 15 years and may be reached at shantala301@rediffmail.com

Prasadam – Mustard, Part Three

The word “mustard” was originally used to describe the condiment, rather than the seed itself. The ancient Greeks and Chinese were using prepared mustard thousands of years ago. The ground seeds were often mixed with the unfermented juice of grapes, called a ‘must‘. Today, nearly 400 million pounds of the yellow stuff is eaten worldwide each year. India is a major producer, which large tracts of mustard being cultivated in Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh, West Bengal, Madhya Pradesh and the Punjab.

Mustard seeds are mentioned in many religious texts around the world, including Vedic sastra and Jewish, Christian, and Muslim scriptures. One of the earliest references to mustard is found in a 5th century B.C. story about Gautama Buddha, who instructed a grieving mother named (Kisagotami), who had just lost her son, to visit every house in the village and collect a handful of mustard seeds from any family that had never lost a husband, parent, child or friend. When the woman could not find such a family, she understood that grief over death is shared by all, and she was relieved of her burden.

In the Srimad Bhagavatam (4.9.58-59), we find an interesting passage, in which the Sanskrit term for mustard seed is siddhartha:

“Thus as Dhruva Maharaja passed on the road, from every place in the neighborhood all the gentle household ladies assembled to see him, and out of maternal affection they offered their blessings, showering him with white mustard seed [siddhartha -- white mustard seed], barley, curd, water, newly grown grass, fruits and flowers. In this way Dhruva Maharaja, while hearing the pleasing songs sung by the ladies, entered the palace of his father.”

Many of the references to mustard in Vaisnava sastra refer to the oil, which is favored not only for cooking, but also for massaging into the skin. In Caitanya-caritamrta Madhya lila 25.206, we read about Subuddhi Raya, who used his money to help Vaisnavas in need, particularly Bengalis visiting Mathura who became distressed by the unfamiliar diet. He would graciously provide them with rice and yoghurt to eat, and mustard oil to rub on their bodies.

In Srimad Bhagavatam 3.23.32 we also read about Devahuti being adorned with various cosmetic substances. Before her bath, she was smeared with turmeric mixed with mustard seed oil. Not only does mustard help eliminate toxins from the body, it is also excellent for keeping the body warm and moist, especially in the cold of winter. But as Srila Prabhupada explains in his purport to Antya lila 12.108, oils such as mustard, ghee and flora oils are only meant to be used by grihastas. Sannyasis should not use such oils, especially perfumed oil.

The benefits of mustard oil are enumerated in the Vedas, Upanishads, Charak-samhita, and other texts. Modern science is now beginning to understand and acknowledge the value of mustard oil, and consequently the commodity is more highly valued in the marketplace. Mustard oil provides good fatty acids, and helps to reduce cholesterol and heart problems, being more healthful in this regard than sunflower and other oils. Research has shown that those frying foods in mustard oil have a reduced rate of heart attack, by almost 71%.

In Ayurveda, mustard seeds are recommended for digestive problems, because of the heat generated by the active ingredients. Mustard plasters are also indicated for respiratory and circulatory problems, helping to stimulate blood flow and soothe inflammation. Mustard is known to help relieve muscle and joint pain, and is a great appetite stimulator. It’s also said to be a powerful anti-microbial.

When buying mustard oil for cooking, it’s common to find bottles on western grocery store shelves that say ‘for external use only’. Although the oil has been valued for cooking since ancient days in India, there now appears to be a move by west agro-interests to defame mustard oil, which is the third most-used cooking oil on the globe, competing with canola oil (favored by big agro) and palm oil.

When cooking with mustard oil, it’s a common practice to heat it until it just begins to smoke. This helps to burn off some of the substance that gives it a sharp taste and smell, making the foods fried in it more palatable.

One way to enjoy the nice flavor of mustard oil is in dishes featuring potatoes. They fry up crispy and golden, and the potato takes on the full flavor of the oil. While many potato preps are seasoned with mustard seeds, here a few of our favorites that feature both seeds and oil.

South Indian Mustard Potato

South Indian Mustard Potatoes

Ingredients:

1 lb. Potatoes
1 bulb Fennel
1/4 minced Green Chili
1 tsp Mustard Seed
1 tsp Channa dal
1 tsp whole Urad dal
a spring of fresh Curry Leaves
1/2 tsp Turmeric
Salt to taste
2 Tblsp. Mustard Oil

Peel and cube the potatoes. In the oil, fry the finely chopped fennel and green chili, then add the mustard seeds until they pop, followed by the dal and curry leaves. When all are crisped, add the potatoes, salt and turmeric. Cook on low heat with the lid on until potatoes are done. Add scant water as needed to keep from sticking.

Amritsari Aloo

Ingredients:

5 Potatoes
5 Tblsp. Mustard Oil
1 Tblsp. Panch poran
a spring fresh Curry Leaves
¼ tsp Turmeric
½ tsp Red Chili powder
3 Tomatoes, pureed
4 cups Water
Salt to taste
A handful Cilantro Leaves

Boil the potatoes, cutting three of them into big pieces and coarsely mashing the other two. In a little hot oil fry the panch poran, chili powder, turmeric and curry leaves. Add the tomatoes, and cook, stirring often, until the liquid evaporates. Add the potatoes along with 4 cups of water, and bring to a boil. Add the salt and cilantro leaves, and let the potatoes boil for ten minutes, then offer hot with bread.

Corn with Mustard

Ingredients:

6 to 8 ears fresh Sweet Corn (or 4 cups frozen)
3 Tblsp. Mustard Oil
1/2 tsp Brown Mustard Seeds
1 Green Chili, minced
1/4 tsp Turmeric
Salt to taste
1 Tblsp. Cilantro, chopped

Slice the kernels off the corncob. If using frozen, thaw the kernels and pat dry. Heat the oil until just smoking, then add the mustard seeds until they splutter, followed by the green chili. Fry until crisped. Add the turmeric, salt and corn. Cover and cook until the corn is tender, about 5 minutes. Stir in the cilantro, and offer.

The more you cook with mustard – seeds, oil and greens – the more you come to appreciate this excellent foodstuff. So many Krsna prasad dishes are made flavorful with mustard, and the plant is so easy to grow that it’s a natural for the devotee garden. Granted, it takes a lot of mustard flowers to produce a year’s worth of seeds for cooking, but mustard will grow almost like a wild plant in many locations. When the flowers have matured and produced seed pods, the flower heads are broken off and tossed onto plastic on cloth, and left in the field for two days to dry. The seed heads are then threshed to remove the chaff, and the seeds reserved and fully cleaned, removing all the loose husks.

Depending on the source of the mustard you buy, you can even use cooking seeds to grow the plants. Mustard seeds germinate in three to ten days in cool, moist soil. The plants like temperate climate, but grow all across North America, Europe and India.

We leave you with a final recipe, this one from Italy. The preparation, called Mostarda di Frutta, is a beautiful way to use mustard, creating a condiment you’ll be pleased to place before Sri Krsna.

Mostarda di Frutta

Mostarda di Frutta

Pick the finest fruits, tender and small. Many different fruits work well; the most traditional are figs, pears, cherries, apricots and pineapple.

Peel those with heavier skins, then poach the whole fruits in a medium thick sugar syrup that is flavored with either mustard powder or mustard oil. If using oil, use the highest quality available, or expel your own. If using powder, grind your own fresh from the seeds.

The sweetness of the fruit and syrup balances the spiciness of the mustard, making an excellent condiment to serve alongside rice, savouries or breads, or even served alongside raita for a beautiful color contrast.

Story by: HareKrsna.com

Role of Seasons in Health & Disease

Written by: Dr. Ch. Murali Manohar, MD Ayurveda – Ayurveda for All

Ayurveda stresses a lot at the role of seasons on the body and advises that we must change our daily routine depending on the seasons. This is known as ritucharya. It helps in preserving the balance of the doshas as the season changes.

1 . DISORDERS AND DISEASES DUE TO SUMMER

SUNBURNS

They occur easily on the mountains and near the sea as the cliffs and the water reflect sunlight strongly, especially the ultraviolet beam. Dark people are susceptible to sunburn less frequently than the fairer ones. People, used to exposing themselves to the sun, can withstand sunlight better than those who cannot. The signs of sunburn vary from redness to swelling and blistering. The eyelids may swell if the face is affected. There are certain measures that you can take to avoid sunburn and its after-effects.

• Sunburn can be minimized with sun-tanning. This is body’s way of protecting the skin against the burning produced by the sun. The more melanin you produce, the darker you get and the better you are protected against burning.
• Mild sunburn can be treated with cool, wet compresses for 10-15 minutes. Use them three times daily. You might also try soaking in a tub of tepid or cool water for the same period of time.
• In order to get effective protection from the strong rays of sun, the best natural herbal sunscreens are sandalwood and aloe-vera.
• In more serious form of sunburn, your ayurvedic physician may prescribe you medicaments such as Satadhouta ghritam, Aaranaalaadi tailam, Chandanaadi tailam for external application.

PRICKLY HEAT (PIDAKA)

It is an uncomfortable rash that develops in those areas of the body where sweat glands have been temporarily blocked. The common accompanying complaints are burning, tingling and itching. External creams may precipitate or aggravate the condition and heavy sweating may also cause pidaka. Persons with pitta constitution are more prone to this problem. There are some remedial measures that you can take to counteract prickly heat:

• Make a paste by taking equal parts of the powders of sandalwood, coriander seeds, the tubercle of nutgrass (tungamusta) and the roots of khus-khus grass. Mix with rose water and apply on the body to get immediate relief from prickly heat.
• A cold water bath taken after the application of the watery paste of gram flour on the body brings relief.
• The powder of sandalwood used as dust all over the body is very efficacious in bringing relief in prickly heat.
• Chandanabala taila is very good application for prickly heat. It is very effacacious in removing burning and itching sensation of the skin. It is very soothing and tonic to the skin and nerves.
• Intake of Pravaala pishti in dose of 500 mg. twice a day, with honey, helps both in preventing and curing the problem.
• Saaribaadi paanakam, Draakshaadi kashaayam, Shadanga Kashaayam and Jambeeraadi paanakam are famous ayurvedic medicines used internally to combat excessive heat in the body. You can try these medicines on the advice of an ayurvedic physician.

Some people’s hair becomes dry and discolored during the summer months because of over-exposure to the sun. But sun damage, unfortunately, can produce even more serious consequences; in frequent and excessive exposure, it can result in skin cancer.

HEAT CRAMPS

If you expose yourself to prolonged period of excessive heat and humidity, than you may develop heat cramps, which are muscular pains and spasms. Although heat-cramps are the least severe, they are an early signal that your body is having trouble with the heat.

HEAT EXHAUSTION

If you continue to work in humid places where body fluids are lost through heavy sweating, blood flow to the skin increases, causing blood flow to decrease to the vital organs, then this results in heat exhaustion, in which you may feel excessive thirst, profuse sweating, muscle cramps, dizziness, vomiting, fatigue, cold and clammy skin and fainting.

HEAT STROKE

The above condition, if continued, will lead to heatstroke, which can be fatal. Heat-related deaths are especially tragic because they can be prevented. However, excessive heat can impair judgement and cause confusion, so take precautions before you get too hot.

During the heatstroke, the body temperature control system, which produces sweating to cool the body, stops working. (Normally sweating cools the body but if sweat is not allowed to evaporate or if the person has not consumed enough liquids to make up for the loss, the body’s heat production may overwhelm its cooling system). The body temperature can rise so high that brain damage and death may result if the body is not cooled quickly. Symptoms of heat stroke include a fever as high as 105 degrees Fahrenheit with too dry skin, mental confusion, and convulsions. Other signs include rapid pulse and heartbeat, dilated pupils, rapid and shallow breathing, either elevated or lowered blood pressure and unconsciousness.

While waiting for help to arrive, lie down the person in a cool place with elevated legs. Fan the sufferer and, if the person is fully awake, advise him to drink cold water. Loosen tight clothing and removed clothes soaked with perspiration. Apply cool, wet clothes to the skin or ice packs in the armpits, wrists, ankles and groin.

Due to excessive heat, elderly people with chronic heat disease are at high risk of heart attack during summer.

Tips to combat summer heat: There are certain measures that you can take to combat the summer heat and stay cool and comfortable. Follow these guidelines:

• Drink plenty of liquids like coconut water, sugarcane juice, fruit juice, buttermilk or at least 10 glasses of water a day.
• Eat light food – avoid hot, spicy, oily meals and opt for foods high in water content including fruits, salads, soups & buttermilk.
• Lassi made from churned curd, cream & ginger or powder of fried barley dissolved in water acts as a re-hydrating agent in the summer.
• A fresh green mango baked in hot ash or raw mango with salt can quench excessive thirst.
• Avoid alcoholic beverages and drinks containing caffeine (tea and coffee), which can make the condition of heat worse.
• Curd rice prepared by adding boiled rice to curdling milk and kept overnight, should be eaten in morning with plenty of raw onions.
• While going out, wear a white handkerchief or use an umbrella to block sunrays.
• Do outdoor work in the early mornings or late evenings.
• Take frequent baths & showers and apply chandana (sandalwood) paste to body for cooling the body.
• Wear light-colored, loose fitting cotton clothes, preferably muted colors, such as tan.
• Smoking can constrict blood vessels & impair the ability to acclimatise to heat, so quit it.
• Fans blow hot air and increase the amount of evaporation of sweat. So, air conditioners are better.
• Here is a natural soft drink for you. Add 125 grams of khus (roots of Andropogon muricatus) or sandalwood powder of saariba root to one liter of water. Keep it aside for 12 hours. Then churn it and filter. To this filtrate, add three kilos of sugar and boil well to make into syrup. You can drink it as and when needed by diluting with water. This drink can be preserved for 15 days without being spoilt.
• Here is an interesting recipe from Rajasthan – Mix barley flour in buttermilk and boil. Keep it aside overnight and drink the next morning.
• Your lunch should consist of boiled rice or roti with watery decoction of pulses or curries with thin gravy. Always end it with buttermilk or curd. Make it a point to drink some fruit juice in the afternoons after lunch. Similarly, the menu of supper should contain enough onions, mint and coriander leaves, in the form of chutney, made salty and sour by adding salt and lemon juice.

2 . HOW TO COMBAT THE WINTER COLD?

This is the time when a lazy wind starts blowing during the day and the winter responds by showing a reluctance to leave while the summer tries desperately to rush in. An ideal time to fly kites, no doubt, but the body too has to weather the change. Our body is programmed to take care of the changes, but occasionally you may have to aid the process of adjustment through food and suitable alterations in lifestyle!

When a cold, dry wind begins to blow, the vaata (the air in the body system according to Ayurveda) responds, because it is too cold, dry and moving. It senses that something akin to itself has begun to dominate the scene. “Like speaks to like” Vaata starts accumulating.

Traditionally, Ayurveda advises everyone to follow a seasonal routine to preserve balance as the seasons change. This routine does not involve major alterations in your lifestyle, only a shift of emphasis.

During winter, agni (digestive fire) becomes stonger and it can effectively digest heavy and large quantities of food. If  you do not eat the right food, agni may even absorb the dhaatus (tissues). To arrest this, take plenty of food. Consume milk, ghee, fat, oils and new rice as dietary staples. Include sour, sweet, and salted soup or meat of awuatic and marshy animals in the diet if you are not a vegetarian.

Try wine, vinegar and honey in the diet. Regularly massage the body with oil. Apply oil on the head. Use room heaters or spend time in heated chambers. Expose the body to the sun’s rays. Avoid light and cold foods. Also, avoid bitter, pungent an astringent tastes. To prevent drying up of the skin, take 100ml milk, add 5 drops olive oil and 8 drops of rose water to it. Apply on the skin gently and smoothly. Then expose yourself to the mild sun for 10 minutes before a warm bath. To keep the face glowing, wash it at least two times a day with lukewarm water. Make a paste of pure flour of bengal gram by adding raw milk. Apply on the face, neck, etc., both in the morning and evening. Alternatively, you can apply the expressed juice of cucumber with 5 drops of mustard oil and rose water in it.

Massaging the skin with mustard oil is good for the skin during winter. Sunrays will enhance the good effects of this procedure. Eat plenty of greens and seasonal fruits. They contain the micro and macro elements, which are required for the smooth functioning of the body.

Soybeans and other pulses are good for cracked lips. Take two teaspoonsfuls of castr oil. Add a pinch of Tankana bhasma (borax) to it. Apply it on the cracked lips.

Cream of milk is also good for cracked lips, if used as an application. Honey is a good and valuable natural healer. Apply it over cracked lips after diluting it with double the quantity of water.

Peace at the Table

The Ayurvedic practice of food sadhana restores mindfulness to mealtime

Article written by: Amelia Glynn from Conscious Choice Magazine

Cooking and eating have always been high on my list of all time favorite things to do. Visiting local farmers’ markets to pick out seasonal produce and concocting beautiful, healthy meals were two pleasures my ex and I often shared together.  So when we broke up last summer, my connection to food felt broken as well. My enthusiasm for cooking vanished overnight, and I found myself on the infamous “break-up diet,” consisting of pretty much anything I could pop in my mouth, sans heat or preparation of any kind.

After two months of this hand-to-mouth existence, I couldn’t bear the sight of another container of cottage cheese or bag of trail mix. I was in desperate need of  a good, home-cooked meal.  I also realized I could benefit from rediscovering food as a source of nourishment and comfort rather than anxiety and sadness.

This was my impetus to sign up for a series of “conscious cooking” classes at my local San Francisco yoga studio. Taught by longtime culinary artist and yoga instructor Jeremy Moran and certified Ayurvedic practitioner Abbie Scianamblo, the classes were founded on the Ayurvedic practice of food sadhana, or cultivating a more mindful approach toward growing, buying, preparing and enjoying food.

Moran and his wife Amanda (also attending the series) kicked things off by sharing experiences of practicing food sadhana together. There were definitely a few bumps in the beginning. “I’d come home from work late in the evening and Amanda would want to dive into exchanging the day’s info,” Moran describes – adding that all he wanted in those moments was to relax and have something to eat. Food sadhana allowed him to decompress during his meal and be more open to hearing what she had to say.

Amanda wouldn’t always take this so well. “I’d feel shut down when he didn’t want to talk, ” she admits, adding that the practice initially seemed very “somber and serious.” But over time and many conversations, she began to appreciate the positive impact of food sadhana. “When we weren’t in such a hurry during meals, we had a lot more time to think about how precious and valuable our food is,” says Amanda. “This practice has been very nourishing.”

According to the principles of Ayurvedic medicine, eating in silence lends more energy and focus to digestion. “When we talk, our blood is directed to the brain rather than the stomach,” explains Scianamblo. She and Moran both take Ghandi’s advice of “chewing your soup and drinking your food” to heart. “It’s important to take time to slow down and enjoy,” Moran advises.

While neither Moran nor Scianamblo expect students to institute a completely silent dinner table, they do recommend keeping conversation light and relaxed (e.g. put the kibosh on religious and political debates until after dessert). Other simple ways to practice food sadhana include making your kitchen a clean, organized and happy place; learning where your food comes from and utilizing what’s in season; enjoying regular meal times; and preparing and eating your food in a calm, quiet and positive state of mind. “Anger and emotions can easily get transferred into the food you are preparing, so treat it with love,” says Scianamblo.

From an Ayurvedic perspective, disease or “lack of ease” in the human body is rooted in the digestive system; 75 percent of effective digestion, assimilation and elimination can be attributed to how we eat and 25 percent to what we eat. “Using our food as our medicine can be our best source of daily health and balance,” Scianamblo says.

The notion of avoiding guilt and feeling confident about everything you put into your body had particular resonance for me, reminding me that if I’m going to have my cake, I should relax and enjoy myself while I eat it, too. And while grocery stores will continue to offer everything under the sun, no matter where we live or time of year, the practice of conscious cooking urges us to shop locally, understand the seasons and tune in to our bodies. Says Scianamblo, “If everyone were more aware of these things, we could have such a positive impact on the world.”

Ginger – The herb of many uses including medicinal

Taken from Ayurveda For All written by: Dr. Ch. Murali Manohar, MD, Ayurveda

Ginger has been used as a spice and medicine for thousands of years. It has been recorded in early Ayurvedic treatises and Chinese texts. Ginger has a wide variety of herbal uses, many of which have been scientifically proven. Ginger is called ardrakam in Sanskrit and its anti-emetic, anti-inflammatory and anti-platelet properties have attracted considerable interest among researchers.

Medicinal Uses

• Ginger can be chewed after meals in conditions like indigestion, gastritis, flatulence, gastrointestinal infection, and parasites. This protective action of ginger is attributable to the excessive secretion of saliva.
• If you feel heavy and bloated after consumption of non-vegetarian and fried fatty food, you can try this remedy – take half a teaspoon of fresh ginger juice, one teaspoonful each of lime juice and fresh mint juice mixed in a teaspoonful of honey.
• If you have painful periods, take a small piece of fresh ginger, pound it, and boil in a cup of water for a few minutes, sweetened with sugar and take this thrice daily.
• Ginger acts as good medicine for throat problems. Chewing a piece of fresh ginger along with clove and a crystal of common salt acts as an excellent remedy for pharyngitis, loss of voice due to shouting or singing; paralyzed muscles of tongue and fauces, colds, rhinitis, enlarged uvulva, tonsillitis, etc.
• If you are suffering from dropsy and scanty urination, take a teaspoonful of ginger juice with a glass of tender coconut water.
• For those who suffer from dental sensitiveness or toothache caused by eating sour fruits, ginger gives good relief. Burn it and mix with common salt. This can be used as toothpowder.
• If you are suffering from diarrhoea and dysentry, fresh ginger fried in ghee can be taken with buttermilk twice of thrice daily.
• Half a teaspoonful of ginger juice can be taken with half boiled egg and honey once daily at bedtime for a month. This tones up the sex centers and is very useful in curing impotency, premature ejaculation, spermatorrhoea, etc.

Thus, Ginger can be used to:

1. Stimulate digestion, and to enhance absorption of other treatments.
2. As a diaphoretic and anti-pyretic for fevers and common cold.
3. As a diffusive stimulant to reinforce the action of other digestive, diaphoretic, and expectorant herbs.
4. To treat and prevent nausea and vomiting. It has also been found to be effective in the treatment of vertigo. It is preferable to give ginger as early as possible during the disease period since the vomiting back of ginger can act as kind of “aversion therapy.”
5. To treat digestive problems, particularly colic, flatulent, peptic ulcers and gastro-intestinal infections and infestations.
6. As an anti-platelet agent for decreasing cardio-vascular risk.
7. As an anti-inflammatory treatment in conditions such as osteo and rheumatoid arthritis.
8. To treat migrane headaches, especially in conjunction with other herbal therapies.
9. Topical application for acute inflammatory conditions, like a ginger compress for acute mastitis.

Please Note

• Ginger should not be used in conditions such as obstinate skin diseases, anaemia, dysuria, haemorrhage, burning sensation in the body, and during summer season.
• Use of ginger should be matched to the person’s condition and constitution, that is, ginger will be most effective for “cold” patients with “cold” conditions as the action of ginger is described as “vata kapha haram” in the classical text.
• Ginger should be used cautiously in people receiving potent anti-coagulant and anti-platelet drugs or in circumstances where prolonged bleeding time might be disadvantageous.

To read more about Ginger as a supplement, please view our website here

SHILAJIT: A MATERIA MEDICA MONOGRAPH

SHILAJIT
A MATERIA MEDICA MONOGRAPH
by
Robert Talbert
Aug 30, 2004
A paper submitted in partial fulfillment of the requirements for the degree of
Clinical Ayurvedic Specialist
at
California College of Ayurveda
1117A East Main Street
Grass Valley, California
OVERVIEW
Shilajit is considered one of the wonder medicines of Ayurveda. Neither a plant nor animal substance, it is a mineral pitch that oozes from the rocks of the Himalayas, as they become warm in the summer months. It is said to carry the healing power of these great mountains (Frawley 2001). Shilajit is an important drug of the ancient Hindu material medica and is to this day used extensively by the Hindu physicians for a variety of diseases. Early ayurvedic writings from the Caraka Samhita and Susruta Samhita describe shilajit as a cure for all disease as well as a rasayana (rejuvenative) able to increasing longevity from 100 to 1000 years of age. It is composed of humus and organic plant material that has been compressed by layers of rock mixed with microbial metabolites. Traditional uses primarily focus on diabetes and diseases of the urinary tract, but also include edema, tumors, wasting, epilepsy and even insanity. Modern indications extend to all system of the human body with a significant number of additions in the reproductive and nervous system. The Ayurvedic energenics vary depending on the base rock that the shilajit comes from but it is generally thought to be tridoshic and only aggravating to Pitta (Fire) when used in excess. Clinical research confirms many of the properties that shilajit is used for. However, further investigations are required before many of shilajit’s actions can be affirmed. No studies with human subject have been conducted. Some of the most interesting studies confirm shilajit’s uses as an anxiolytic (anti-anxiety) agent and its nootropic (enhancer of learning acquisition and memory retrieval) activity. Shilajit is generally considered safe in moderate doses and is readily available in the United States both as a stand-alone product and in the traditional Ayurvedic formula Chandraprabha. It has also compounded in many patent medicines from India. Those who sell shilajit or products containing it make many wild claims for shilajit’s ability to cure diseases. Hopefully shilajit will not become a “snake-oil” in our modern world only to be cast aside by modern researchers. Shilajit is truly a remarkable substance with a long history of human usage for healing and should be subjected to further investigations.
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DESCRIPTION

Names:
Sanskrit: Shilajit, Silajit, Silaras (Chopra 1958) Hindi, Gujarati and Marathi: Silajita (Chopra 1958) Hindi: Ral-yahudi (Nadkarni 1954) Bengali: Silajatu (Chopra 1958) Tamil: Uerangyum (Chopra 1958) Tamil: Perangyum, Uerangyum (Nadkarni 1954) Arabic: Hajar-ul-musa (Chopra 1958) Persian: Momiai Faqurual Yahud (Nadkarni 1954) Russian: Mummio, Mumie (Bucci 2000) English: Asphalt, Mineral Pitch (Chopra 1958) English: Jew’s pitch (Nadkarni 1954) English: Vegetable Asphalt (Tirtha 1998) Latin: Asphaltum (Tirtha 1998) Botanical description: Bitumen mineral (Puri 2003)
Synonyms: çiläjatu, uñìaja, çailaniryasa, giriçahvaya, çilahva, girija, çaila, çaileya, girijatu (Dash 1991).
Meaning:
In Sanskrit, shilajit means ‘winner of rock’ (Mukherjee 1992). Another meaning is “sweat of the rock” (Tirtha 1998).
Source:
The Charaka Samhita states that, “Stones of metal like gold etc., in the mountains get heated up by the sun and the exudates that comes out of them in the form of smooth and clean gum is called çiläjatu”. Sharma adds that metals like gold do not produces exudates and what was actually intended was that stones containing gold would produce shilajit (Sharma 2000).
The Sushruta Samhita states that “A gelatinous substance that is secreted from the side of the mountains when they have become heated by the rays of the sun in the months of Jyaishta and Ashadha. This substance is what is know as Çilájatu and it cures all distempers of the body.” (Bhishagratna 1998). Jyaishta is May-June and Ashadha is June-July. It is found in abundance in the lower Himalayan hills near Hardwar, Simla and also in Nepal. (Chopra 1958)
Shilajit is a blackish-brown exudation, of variable consistency, obtained from steep rocks of different formations found in the Himalayas at altitudes between 1000 to 5000 meter, from Arunachal Pradesh in the
2
East to Kashmir in the West. It is also found in Afghanistan, Nepal, Bhutan, Pakistan, China, Tibet and U.S.S.R (Tien-Shan, Ural and Caucasus) (Jaiswal 1992).
Types of Shilajit:
The Charaka Samhita states that there are four types based on stones of four types of metals from which it exudes: gold, silver, copper and black iron. The shilajit from the last type is the best. If administered according to proper procedure, it produces rejuvenating and aphrodisiac effects and cures diseases (Sharma 2000).
The Sushruta Samhita states that there are six types based on their origins (shad-yoni). In addition to the four types listed above he added tin and lead. Each type has the same taste (rasa) and potency (virya) as the metal to whose essence it owes its origin. He goes on to note that tin, lead, and iron, copper, silver, gold are progressively more efficacious, so the different types of shilajit that derive from these metals are also progressively more efficacious in their application (Bhishagratna 1998).
The Astanga Hrdayam also notes the six types but notes that the shilajit coming out of iron is the best (Murthy 2001).
The description of six types in Sushruta relates to both the rejuvenation therapy and treatment of diseases. Caraka describes only the rejuvenating effects of shilajit, and this effect is available in the four types that he lists. (Sharma 2000).
Chopra (1958) states there are four types each with its own unique color; gold (red), silver (white), copper(blue), iron(blackish brown).
There are several varieties of the substance, of which the black color has the main therapeutic properties (Frawley 2001).
The black form of shilajit is the most commonly used medicinal form (Halpern 2003).
FOLKLORE
Some Himalayan tribal villagers, who were observing white monkeys migrating to the higher mountains in summer months, made the discovery of shilajit. The monkeys were observed to lick the semi-solid substance exuding out the rock crevices. Since observing the animal behaviors were an important part of healthcare research in ancient times, those villagers attributed the great strength, longevity and wisdom of those monkeys to this substance. Curious by the thought, they themselves started taking the substance and reported a broad spectrum of improvement in their health and stamina. It gave them more energy,
3
relieve digestive problems, increase sex drive, improve to memory etc., with the passage of the time traditional health practitioners established the methods to purify the substance (Dabur 2003).
TRADITIONAL USES
Shilajit is an important drug of the ancient Hindu material medica and was used extensively by the Hindu physicians in a variety of diseases. This section sites uses as described in the Caraka Samhita, Susruta Samhita and Astanga Hrkayam.
Panacea: The Caraka Samhita discusses shilajit in a chapter on rejuvenation therapy (rasayana). It has been proposed that the modern equivalent of a rasayana is an adaptogenic substance. (Ghosal 1998).
The Caraka Samhita states that there is no curable disease in the universe, which is not effectively cured by shilajit when it is administered at the appropriate time, in combination with suitable drugs and by adopting the prescribed method. When administered to a healthy person, with similar conditions it produces immense energy. In the Sushruta Samhita, it is noted that there is no bodily distemper, which does not yield to shilajit’s highly curative virtues. When gradually taken, (in adequate doses) it tends to improve the strength and complexion of the body. (Bhishagratna 1998). The is echoed in the Astanga Hrdayam which also states that it is the best rejuvenator (Murthy 2001).
Longevity: The Caraka states that it enables the user to witness a hundred summers on earth, free from disease and decay. Each tulä weight (7.75 lbs. or 3.5 kilos) of shilajit taken successively, adds a century to the duration of the human life, while ten tulä weight (77.5 lbs. or 35 kilos) measures extend it to a thousand years (Sharma 2000). Enables the user to witness a hundred summers on earth, free from disease and decay. Additional quantities are said to extend lifetime in increments of a century up to one thousand years. (Bhishagratna 1998).
Traditional Indications: Cardiovascular
none
Dermatological
Kushtha (obstinate skin diseases including leprosy) (Bhishagratna 1998) (Murthy 2001)
Endocrinology, reproductive system, obstetrics/ gynecology, prostate
none
Gastrointestinal
Ama (disorders of poor digestive activities) (Murthy 2001)
Enlargement of the abdomen (Murthy 2001).
Hemorrhoids(Bhishagratna 1998).
Rectal distula (Murthy 2001)
Worms (Murthy 2001)
4
Hematology, lymphatic, cancer
Jaundice (Bhishagratna 1998).
Çopha (edema) (Bhishagratna 1998).
Elephantiasis(Bhishagratna 1998).
Poison begotten distempers(Bhishagratna 1998).
Fever(Murthy 2001).
Chronic fever(Bhishagratna 1998).
Immunology, aids, infectious diseases
Phthisis (wasting of the body) (Bhishagratna 1998).
Gulma (internal tumors) (Bhishagratna 1998).
Malignant tumor (Murthy 2001)
Benign tumor (Murthy 2001)
Liver and gallbladder
none
Neurology, psychiatry
Loss of consciousness (Murthy 2001)
Epilepsy (apasmára) (Bhishagratna 1998).
Insanity (Bhishagratna 1998).
Respiratory (lower and upper respiratory tract including ears, nose, throat, sinuses)
Cough (Murthy 2001)
Scrofula (tuberculous cervical lymphadenitis) (Murthy 2001).
Rheumatological, orthopedic, muscles, contusions
Obesity (Murthy 2001).
Urinary tract system (kidney, ureter, bladder)
Dysuria (Murthy 2001).
Madhu-Meha (vata type diabetes mellitus -type I) (Bhishagratna 1998) (Murthy 2001)
Gravel or stones in the bladder (Bhishagratna 1998).
MODERN USES
What follows is a list of suggested usage from reputable sources. I purposefully chose not to include any claims made by anyone who was selling shilajit, as these sources tend to inflate its usefulness.
Modern Indications: Cardiovascular
Päìòutä (anemia) (Dash 1991).
Rakta (vitiation of blood) (Dash 1991).
Reduces blood sugar (Tierra 1988).
Dermatological
Parasitic diseases of the skin (Chopra 1958).
Skin diseases (Frawley 2001).
5
Leprosy (Chopra 1958).
Endocrinology, reproductive system, obstetrics/ gynecology, prostate
Sexual debility (Frawley 1989) (Frawley 2001).
Sexual vitality (Puri 2003).
Infertility (Tierra 1988).
Menstrual disorders(Frawley 2001).
Post partum health (Puri 2003).
Thyroid disfunction (Lad 2002).
Gastrointestinal
Digestive troubles (Chopra 1958).
Chardi (vomiting) (Dash 1991).
Arças (piles or hemorrhoids ) (Dash 1991) (Frawley 2001).
Krimi (parasitic infestation) (Dash 1991) (Frawley 2001).
Hematology, lymphatic, cancer
Edema (dropsy) (Chopra 1958) (Frawley 1989) (Frawley 2001).
Spleen enlargement (Halpern 2003).
Cancer (Frawley 1989).
Immunology, aids, infectious diseases
Weakness (Frawley 2001).
Debility (Frawley 2001).
Kñaya (comsumption) (Dash 1991) (Tierra 1988).
Immunomodulater (Puri 2003).
AIDS (Frawley 1989).
Liver and gallbladder
Jaundice (Frawley 2001).
Gall stones (Frawley 2001).
Udara (obstinate abdominal diseases including ascites) (Dash 1991).
Neurology, psychiatry
Nervous diseases (Chopra 1958).
Antistress (Frawley 1989)(Puri 2003).
Epilepsy (Frawley 2001).
Unmade (insanity) (Dash 1991) (Frawley 2001).
Respiratory (lower and upper respiratory tract including ears, nose, throat, sinuses)
Çväsa (dyspnoea) (Dash 1991).
Chronic bronchitis (Chopra 1958).
Asthma (Chopra 1958) (Frawley 2001).
Mouth diseases (Dash 1991).
Rheumatological, orthopedic, muscles, contusions
Obesity (Frawley 1989)(Frawley 2001).
Fractures (Chopra 1958) (Tierra 1988) (Puri 2003).
Arthritis (Halpern 2003-2)
Osteoarthritis (Tierra 1988).
Spondylosis (Tierra 1988).
6
Bodybuilding (Muscular hypertrophy) (Bucci 2000)
Urinary tract system (kidney, ureter, bladder)
Pameha (obstinate urinary disorders including diabetes) (Dash 1991) (Frawley 1989).
Seeta meha (renal glycosuria, a type of Kapha diabetes) (Qutab 1996)
Sikata meha (Lithuria, a type of Kapha diabetes) (Qutab 1996)
Shanai meha (Frequent urination caused by a stone in prostate area) (Qutab 1996)
Shukara meha (spermoruia) (Qutab 1996)
Diabetes (Frawley 1989)(Frawley 2001).
Kidney stones (renal calculi) (Chopra 1958) (Frawley 2001).
Cystitis (Frawley 2001).
Dysuria (Frawley 1989)(Frawley 2001).
Chronic urinary tract problems (Tierra 1988).
Urinary tract infections (Frawley 1989).
Urinary Tonic (Halpern 2003).
Kidney Tonic (Frawley 1989)(Frawley 2001).
Other Uses:
Yogavähi, which means that it enhances the properties of other herbs (Dash 1991). It acts as a catalytic agent for promoting the action of the other tonic agents. (Frawley 2001).
Geriatric tonic (Frawley 1989) (Puri 2003).
Tonic (Vata and Kapha) (Frawley 2001).
Rejuvenative (Frawley 2001).
AYURVEDIC ENERGENICS
The Caraka Samhita gives the ayurvedic energenics for each type of shilajit as summarized below:
Shilajit Type (derived from stone containing)
Color
Rasa
Virya‡
Vipäka
Gold
like the flower of japä (hibiscus)
bitter
cooling
pungent
Silver
white
pungent
cooling
sweet‡
Copper
peacock throat
bitter
hot
pungent
Iron
looks like gum of guggulu
bitter, salt
cooling
pungent
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† Sharma clarifies that the virya of shilajit is a point of confusion in the text. In verse 48 it states it is “Neither hot nor very cold” and here the virya seems of mixed virya based on its type. His conclusion is that the virya of shilajit is not very powerful and should be considered neither hot or cold (Sharma 2000).
‡Sharma clarifies that according to the general rule, a substance having a pungent taste should have a pungent vipaka. But for the Silver type of shilajit is an exception to the rule (Sharma 2000).
Rasa: Astringent (Sharma 2000) Bitter and pungent (Bhishagratna 1998) Astringent, pungent, bitter (Frawley 2001) Astringent, pungent, bitter, salty (Halpern 2003)
Anu-rasa (after taste): Astringent (Bhishagratna 1998)
Virya: Neither hot nor very cold (Sharma 2000) Heating (Bhishagratna 1998) Warm (Frawley 2001) (Halpern 2003) Hot (Dash 1991)
Vipaka (post digestive effect): Pungent (Sharma 2000) Pungent (Bhishagratna 1998) Pungent (Frawley 2001) (Halpern 2003) Pungent (Dash 1991) Dosha effect: V-P+K- (Frawley 2001) V-P-K-, P + in excess (Tirtha 1998) V-P+e,K- (Halpern 2003)
Tissues and Systems: Shilajit effects the nerve and reproductive tissues and the urinary, nervous and reproductive systems (Frawley 2001). It also has specific action on the endocrine system and affects all tissue systems (dhatus). It also strengthens agni (digestive fire) and reduces ama (toxins) (Halpern 2003).
Actions: Herbal actions are alterative, diuretic, lithotroptic, antiseptic, tonic, rejuvenative (Frawley 2001). Other actions include anodyne, anthelmintic and blood sugar reducer. (Halpern 2003, 2003-2). It also has a laxative effect and has absorbing and purifying (chhedana) properties (Bhishagratna 1998).
8
CHEMISTRY
The general appearance of shilajit is that of a compact mass of vegetable organic matter composed of a dark-red gummy matrix interspersed with vegetable fibers, sand and earthy matter. The gummy substance dissolves in water and when washed away leaves an earthy matter, vegetable fibers and a few black round button-like masses (1/8 in. in diameter) resembling peas (Chopra 1958).
Chemical analysis shows that it contains besides gums, albuminoids, traces of resin and fatty acid, a large quantity of benzoic and hippuric acids and their salts. From the medicinal point of view, the chief active substances in it are benzoic acid and benzoates (Chopra 1958).
A study of vegetation of the areas of shilajit-exuding rocks indicated that Euphorbia royleana Boiss. (family Eurporbiaceae), a latex-bearing plant abundantly growing in the Western Himalayas, is the source of organic constituents of shilajit. The major amino acid composition in the latex of E. royleana was similar to that of shilajit (Ghosal 1976). E. royleana, a member of the cactus family, is commonly known as churee.
Trifolium repens L. (family Leguminosae) has also been found growing abundantly in the vicinity of shilajit-bearing rocks and are responsible, at least in part, for the formation of shilajit (Ghosal 1987). Trifolium repens is commonly known as white clover.
Tucson Botanical Garden
Shilajit is naturally high in iron and other valuable minerals (Tierra 1988).
Shilajit has long been regarded as a bitumen (asphalt) or mineral resin, or as a plant fossil exposed by elevation of the Himalayas, has now been subjected to extensive chemical investigations and it has now been shown to contain significant quantities of organic compounds, including bioactive oxygenated dibeno-alpha-pyrones, tirucallane triterpenes, phenolic lipids and small tannoids. Shilajit, obtained from different sources, has now been standardized on the basis of its major organic constituents (Ghosal 1991).
Euphorbia royleana
Shilajit is essentially constituted of fresh and modified remnants of humus (10-70% of the water-soluble fraction of shilajit), admixed with plant and microbial metabolites occurring in the rock rhizosphere of its natural habitat (Mukherjee 1992).
©Larry Allain. USGS NWRC.
Trifolium repens 9
CLINICAL REVIEW
The following summary of current research on shilajit show that some claims are substantiated and others are not. Note that all studies used animal subjects.
Research supports
• Analgesic activity: Aqueous suspension of an authentic sample of shilajit was found to have significant analgesic activity in albino rats. Observed analgesic activity of shilajit probably justifies its use in different painful conditions. (Acharya 1988).
• Anti-Alzheimer: Shilajit holds a potential in the treatment of the apparently untreatable and incurable Alzheimer’s disease (Mukherjee 1992).
• Anti-inflmmatory activity: Aqueous suspension of an authentic sample of shilajit was found to have significant anti-inflammatory activity in albino rats. This research supports the use of shilajit in Ayurvedic medicine for rheumatism. (Acharya 1988). Shilajit was found to have significant anti-inflammatory effect in carrageenan-induced acute pedal oedema, granuloma pouch and adjuvant-induced arthritis in rats. These results substantiate the use of shilajit in inflammation (Goel 1990).
• Anti-ulcerogenic activity: Shilajit treatment produced decreased ulcerogenicity in 4 hr pylorus ligated rats. This finding lends credence to the suggested use of shilajit for peptic ulcers. (Acharya 1988). Shilajit increased the carbohydrate/protein ratio and decreased gastric ulcer index, indicating an increased mucus barrier. These results substantiate the use of shilajit in peptic ulcer (Goel 1990). Some active constituents isolated from shilajit are Fulvic acid and 4/-methoxy 6-carbomethoxy bi phenyl. These active constituents were found to have ulcer protective effect as a result a per se decrease in acid-pepsin secretion and cell shedding (Ghosal 1988)
• Anxiolytic activity: (anti-anxiety activity) The results indicate that shilajit has significant anxiolytic activity, comparable qualitatively with that induced by diazepam (valium), in doses lower than that required for nootropic activity (Jaiswal 1992). Ayurvedic use of shilajit as a tonic has some support from studies of the humic acids, fulvic acids, coumarins, and triterpenes that have shown anti-stress effects in animals (Ghosal 1988).
• Morphine-tolerance: In Swiss mice, the concomitant administration of proceeded shilajit with morphine, from day 6 to day 10, resulted in a significant inhibition of the development of tolerance to morphine induced analgesia (Tiwari 2001).
• Nootropic activity: Nootropic is a word coined by Dr. Giurgea to describe a new class of drugs that act as cognitive enhancers with no side effects or toxicity, from Greek words noos, meaning mind and tropein meaning toward (Giurgea 1973). It has been proposed that the modern equivalent of a medha rasayanas are those substances with nootropic activity (Ghosal 1998). Medhya is defined as causing or generating intelligence, mental vigor or power. The research found significant nootropic effects, which are
10
consistent with shilajit’s use as a medha rasayana (enhancer of learning acquisition and memory retrieval) (Mukherjee 1992). Shilajit can be regarded as a nootropic agent in view of its facilitatory effect on retention of acquired learning, though it ha d minimal effect on the acquisition of active avoidance learning (Jaiswal 1992).
• Nutritive Tonic: The effect of shilajit was investigated on the body weight of young rats for a period of one month. The body weight of the rats was found to be significantly greater in the rats taking shilajit compared with a control group. Researchers suggest a better utilization of food as a cause of the weight gain (Gupta 1966).
Research does not support
• Cardiac depressant action: Findings using frog’s hearts, do not support the therapeutic use of shilajit in cardiac failure as claimed in Indian System of Medicine (Acharya 1988).
• Cardiovascular system: no significant action on blood pressure, heart rate and respiration of an anaesthetized dog (Acharya 1988).
• Smooth and Skeletal muscles: Shilajit had neither any per se effect nor could modify the responses of nicotine, acetylcholine and histamine on isolated guinea pig ileum. Shilajit neither had any per se effect nor it could modify acetylcholine response on isolated rectus abdominis muscle of frog. (Acharya 1988).
• Central Nervous System: Shilajit in the doses of 50 to 200mg/kg had no significant effect on the general behavior of mice. (Acharya 1988).
• Bronchial asthma: Shilajit did not offer any protection against histamine-induced bronchospasm in guinea pigs. (Acharya 1988).
More research needed
• Anti-Alzheimer: Data clearly demonstate that shilajit affects some events in cortical and basal forebrain cholinergic singnal transduction cascade in rat brain. The study suggests that more research is needed where the treatment period is longer than seven days. Drugs that enhance cholinergic activity have been investigated as potential therapeutic agents in the treatment of Alzheimer’s disease (Schliebs 1997).
DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION
According to the Caraka Samhita, impregnating shilajit with a decoction of drugs, which alleviate vayu, pitta and kapha, increases the shilajit potency. Impregnation can be done by these drugs individually or by all of them taken together. A shilajit rasayana is described where shilajit is immersed into a hot decoction of herbs that are prescribed for alleviating the aggravation of dosha. This process is repeated for seven days and processed shilajit is mixed with powdered iron. Administered with milk this elixir brings long life and
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happiness and prevents aging and disease. Administration of 48 gm for seven weeks is said to have excellent effects (Sharma 2000). According to the Astanga Hrdayam the minimum, moderate and maximum does of shilajit are karña, half-pala (17.5 grams) and pala (35 grams) respectively and the duration of use one week, three weeks and seven weeks respectively (Murthy 2001).
Shilajit can be expensive but does not require large dosages (Frawley 2001).
One suggested dosage is to take shilajit powder with milk, 1 oz or more a day for severe diseases; 0.25 – 1 tsp three times per day otherwise (Tirtha 1998).
Shilajit is important for edema, particularly in weak types, 1-2 grams twice a day with water or milk (Frawley 1989). The dose of shilajit is usually quite low at around 125-250mg twice per day. However, in diabetes, it has been recommended in much higher doses such as 1 g twice per day. Shilajit mixes well with ashwagandha for seminal debility and with gokshura as a urinary tonic (Halpern 2003). For the treatment of both male and female infertility, it can be taken in unusually high doses of 1 tsp twice per day. For men combine with ashwagandha and for women with shatavari. Consider shilajit in all vata and kapha urinary disorders. As a tonic for vata, combine it with Goksura. Shilajit is among the best herbs for the long-term management of diabetes mellitus where it should be combined with gumar (Halpern 2003-2).
CONTRAINDICATIONS
Should not be used with a heavy diet. Milk is an exception to the rule here as the Caraka specifically recommends recipes be taken with milk. Kulattha or horse gram, which is a type of bean, is noted as a special heavy dietary item. Some physicians prohibit the use of kulattha for the period that shilajit remains in the body and others prohibit it for the remaining period of ones life (Sharma 2000). Susruta also notes that persons impregnated with shilajit should avoid the meat of kapota (pigeon). The Astanga Hrdayam adds käkamäci (Solanum nigrum, black nightshade) to the list of substances to avoid during the use of shilajit (Murthy 2001). (Bhishagratna 1998). Do not use with high uric acid count (Tirtha 1998). Shilajit is not for febrile diseases (Frawley 2001). Although shilajit is used to treat kidney stones, use caution if the stones are made of uric acid or if uric acid crystals are in the urine as uric acid increases with the administration of shilajit. For this same reason, shilajit is contraindicated in gouty arthritis. (Halpern 2003).
ADVERSE EFFECTS
Shilajit may be utilized safely in clinical practice because shilajit is reported to be quite safe up to a dose of 3 g/kg in mice (24h mortality) (Frotan 1984).
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DRUG INTERACTIONS
No drug interactions were found at the time of writing this paper.
BRANDED PRODUCTS
Sources of commercial shilajit:
(all prices as of Aug 2004) Banyan Botanicals: Shilajit 90 tablets (300mg/tablet) $18.95 Bazaar of India: Shilajit 60 vegicaps (650mg/cap) $15.99 Shilajit 1 lb pwd $69.75 Shilajit 8 oz pwd $54.99 Shilajit 3 oz pwd $23.99 Shilajit 1 oz raw crystals $18.00
Dabur:
Purified extract from 500 mg of raw shilajit, 100 capsule $17.99
Shilajit in compounded products:
Banyan Botanicals sells Chandraprabha as a traditional ayurvedic formula. Its contents include guggulu, shilajit, chitrak, musta and nishoth. They say that Chandraprabha acts on the urinary tract and reproductive organs, and is used to remove excess kapha from the system. Chandraprabha 90 tablets (300mg/tablet) $18.95. Chandraprabha is recommended for management of Medhu meda (Diabetes Mellitus) and Ikshu meha (Alimentary glycosuria) (Qutab 1996). Dr Frawley also recommends Chardraprabha for Diabetes (Frawley 1989).
Pills made with equal quantities of guggul and shilajit are prescribed during fractures (Puri 2003). A highly nutritious preparation, called Rativallabh pak is made from a number of ingredients including a significant qanitity of Kikar (Acacia nilotica) also know as gum arabica and a minor amount of shilajit. This compound promotes “the proper sexual life of both males and females” (Puri 2003). It also is of immense use after childbirth as it imparts beauty and health to mother and infant. As part of the geriatric tonic, Navratnakalpa Amrit, shilajit assists in the formula’s effect of strengthening all parts of the body, stabilizing vata, pitta and kapha (Puri 2003).
In an antistress immunomodulater formulation, Trasina by Dey’s Medical Stores, shilajit assists (Puri 2003). Each capsule contains: Aswagandha 80 mg., Tulsi 190 mg., Silajit 20 mg., Guduchi 10 mg., Katuka 10 mg., Bhringaraj 10 mg.
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Shilajit also assists in a number of formulations to increase sexual vitality. Shilajit plays a role in an aphrodisiac formulation from Deesons called Mucuna Forte, in an sex tonic formulation, Spy by Yogi Pharmacy, in a vitality and tonifying formula called Strenex by Zandu, in a sexual stimulant formula for men called Tentex forte by Himalaya Drug, and in a formula that increasing sexual activity and libido called Ashree Forte, from Aimil pharmacy (Puri 2003).
The Ayurvedic jelly Chyavanprash contains shilajit as one of its main ingredients (Frawley 2001). Chyavanprash sold by Banyan Botanicals, Tri-Health, Bazaar of India, Himalaya Herbal Healthcare and Nature’s Formulary do not contain shilajit.
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CONCLUSION
Shilajit is truly a remarkable substance with a long history of human usage for healing for the urinary system and for diabetes. Unfortunately, many of those who sell shilajit or products containing it, make many wild claims for shilajit’s ability to cure diseases. While compiling the list of modern indications for shilajit, I chose to only include what I considered “reputable” sources and excluded any sources that were selling shilajit. I purposefully also excluded Internet sources for this information as I felt their claims were exaggerated beyond reality. Even still, examining the list of modern indications for shilajit, one can hardly believe that it could have such a wide and varied effect on the human body. Herbal dietary supplements are big business in the United States. More than 40% of adult Americans use some form of alternative medicine, including herbals, massage, chiropractic, and hypnosis, and spent $5.1 billion out of pocket for herbal therapies in 1997. Herbal use increased by 380% and megavitamin use by 130% from 1990-1997. More than 60% of people do not disclose their use of complementary medicine to physicians (Eisenberg 1998). As herbal supplements have gained popularity, many botanicals most Americans had never even heard of a decade ago have become widely available. Echinacea, ginseng and St. John’s wort, for example, are now sold in supermarkets, pharmacies and discount stores. More exotic botanicals, meanwhile, can be purchased at health food stores, specialty shops, through catalogs and the Internet. If shilajit were available at your local pharmacy would self-prescribed usage be the best thing for everyone? In light of this, one hopes that shilajit not be consumed by this money making machine and exploited for profit only. My fear is that shilajit might become a modern snake oil, reminiscent of 19th century preparations, only to be cast aside by modern researchers. The clinical studies on shilajit, conducted have so far; have been conducted on animals only. These studies seem very preliminary and my hope is that respected scientists, in the United States, India and throughout the world, continue their investigations into the healing substance – shilajit.
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REFERENCES
Acharya SB, Frotan MH, Goel RK, Tripathi SK, Das PK. Pharmacological actions of Shilajit. Indian J Exp Biol. 1988 Oct; 26(10): 775-7.
Bhishagratna KK. Susruta Samhita Vol 2, Chapter XIII. Varanasi, India: Chowkhamba Sanskrit Series Office, Varansi-1, 1998.
Bucci LR. Selected herbals and human exercise performance. American Society for Clinical Nutrition, 2000 Aug; 72(2 Suppl): 624S-36S. Review.
Chopra, R N, Chopra I C, Handa K L & Kapur L D. Chopra’s Indigenous Drugs of India. 2nd Ed. B. K. Dhur of Academic Publishers, Calcutta India, 1958
Dabur. Shilajit: How was it discovered. From website copyright 2003. http://www.dabur.com/EN/General/faqs.asp?ID=44&FaqID=283&showAns=y#F1
Dash B. Materia Medica of Ayurveda B. Jain Publishers,New Delhi, 1991
Eisenberg DM, Davis RB, Ettner SL, et al. Trends in alternative medicine use in the United States, 1990-1997: results of a follow-up national survey. JAMA 1998;280:1569-75.
Frawley, David. Ayurvedic Healing. Salt Lake City, UT: Passage Press, 1989.
Frawley, David and Lad, Vasant. The Yoga of Herbs. 2nd edition. Pg 250. Lotus Press. Twin Lakes, WI, 2001.
Frotan, M.H., and Acharya, S.B. Pharmacological studies of shilajit. Indian Journal of Pharmacolgy 1984 16,45.
Ghosal S, Lal J, Singh SK, Goel RK, Jaiswal AK, Bhattacharya SK. The need for formulation of Shilajit by its isolated active constituents. Phytotherapy Res 1991; 5: 211-6.
Ghosal S, Lal J, Srivastava RS, Bhattacharya SK, Upadhyay SN, Jaiswal AK, Chattopadhyay U. Immunomodulatory and CNS effects of sitoindosides IX and X. Phytotherapy Res 1989; 3: 201-6.
Ghosal S, Singh SK, Kumar Y, Srivatsava R. Antiulcerogenic activity of fulvic acids and 4-metoxy-6-carbomethyl biphenyl isolated from shilajit. Phytother Res. 1988;2:187-91.
Ghosal S, Standardization of Ayurvedic drugs and preparations. Proceedings of Captain Srinivasa Murthi Drug Research Institute, Madras, India, 1987, 29-34.
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Ghosal S, Reddy JP, Lal VK. Shilajit I: chemical constituents. Journal of Pharmaceutical Sciences 1976 May; 65(5): 772-3.
Giurgea C. The nootropic approach to the pharmacology of the integrative action of the brain. Cond Reflex 1973; 8: 108-15.
Goel RK, Banerjee RS, Acharya SB. Antiulcerogenic and antiinflammatory studies with shilajit. Journal of Ethnopharmacology. 1990 Apr; 29(1): 95-103.
Gupta SS, Seth CB, Mathur VS. Effect of Gurmar and shilajit on body weight of young rats. Indian J Physiol Pharmacol. 1966 Apr; 9(2): 87-92.
Halpern, Marc. Principles of Ayurvedic Medicine. 5th edition. Grass Valley, CA: California College of Ayurveda, 2003.
Halpern, Marc. Clinical Ayurvedic Medicine. 4h edition. Grass Valley, CA: California College of Ayurveda, 2003.
Jaiswal AK, Bhattacharya SK. Effects of Shilajit on memory, anxiety and brain monoamines in rats. Indian Journal of Pharmacology 1992; 24:12 – 17.
Lad, Vasant. Textbook of Ayurveda. Ayurvedic Press, Albuquerque, NM, 2002.
Mukherjee, Biswapati. Traditional Medicine, Proceedings of an International Seminar. Nov. 7-9 1992, pg 308-319. Hotel Taj Bengal, Calcutta India. Oxford & IBH Publishing, New Delhi, 1992.
Murthy, KRS. Astanga Hrdayam. 5th edition. Krishnadas Academy, Varanasi, India, 2001
Nadkarni, KM. Indian Materia Medica. 3rd edition. Vol 2, pg 23. Popular Prakashan Private Ltd. Bombay, India, 1954
Puri HS. Rasayana. Taylor & Francis. London, England 2003
Schliebs R, Liebmann A, Bhattacharya SK, Kumar A, Ghosal S, Bigl V. Systemic administration of defined extracts from Withania somnifera (Indian Ginseng) and Shilajit differentially affects cholinergic but not glutamatergic and GABAergic markers in rat brain. Neurochem Int. 1997 Feb; 30(2):181-90.
Sharma, R. K. and Bhagwan Dash, trans. Caraka Samhita. Vols III, Chap I:3 pg 50-54. Varanasi, India: Chowkhamba Sanskrit Series Office, Varansi-1, 2000.
Tierra, Michael. Planetary Herbology. Lotus Press. Twin Lakes, WI, 1988.
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Tirtha, Swami Sada Shiva. The Ayurvedic Encyclopedia. Ayurveda Holistic Center Press. Bayville, NY, 1998.
Tiwari P, Ramarao P, Ghosal S. Effects of Shilajit on the development of tolerance to morphine in mice. Phytother Res. 2001 Mar; 15(2): 177-9.
Qutab A. Ayurvedic Specific Condition Review: Diabetes Mellitus. Protocol Journal of Botanical Medicine, Winter 1996:138-139
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19
ABSTRACTS
Abstracts from references used to write this paper follow.

THE THERAPEUTIC PROPERTIES AND USAGES OF FIVE COMMON SPICES: CORIANDER, CUMIN, FENNEL, GINGER, AND TURMERIC

Written by:

Mark L. Vinick, D.C., C.A.S.

Clinical Ayurvedic Specialist (C.A.S.)
Board Certified, American Academy of Pain Management
Board Certified, American Board of Anti-Aging Health Practitioners

INTRODUCTION
Spices have been revered throughout history and around the world for their culinary enhancing and medicinal properties. Over 4,500 years ago, the Chinese emperor Shen Nung composed an extensive treatise on medicinal herbs and spices. Around the same time in the Indus Valley in India, the science of Ayurveda developed. Both of these ancient traditions held that herbs and spices contain healing properties, and that the knowledge of their proper application and usage was of divine origin. Around 300 years B.C., the Egyptian school of medicine
in Alexandria accumulated a large body of medical knowledge, well over 700,000 books. All of which were unfortunately burned and destroyed in the fourth century A.D. by religious fanatics. The Greek system of medicine was also established around 300 B.C. It was in that period that Hippocrates, considered the father of modern medicine, produced his Materia Medica, in which he carefully described many herbal medicines still in use today.
In the first century A.D., Dioscorides, the personal physician to Emperor Nero, published his book, De Materia Medica, which detailed the use of over five hundred medicinal herbs. His work became the standard text of the medicinal use of herbs throughout the Middle Ages. Towards the end of the fifteenth century, Christopher Columbus ventured to find a shortcut to India, in an attempt to bring the much in demand Indian spices to Western Europe. In doing so, he accidentally discovered the New World, the North American Continent, which also contained thousands of previously unknown botanicals. Early Native American cultures also possessed a rich knowledge of the medicinal and healing properties of many botanical herbs and plants.1
Ayurveda, the Science of Life, which is the ancient traditional system of medicine from India, believed to be well over 5000 years old, has particularly emphasized the subtle, and yet, incredible healing properties of herbs and
2
spices that are readily available and can be used on a daily basis.
The following five easily obtainable spices are possibly some of the best sources of botanical healing available today.
CORIANDER
Coriandrum sativum
Scientific, and western properties and usage’s:
Coriander is native to many areas throughout the world. It is found in North and South America. The medicinal parts of the plant are the oil, and the dried ripe fruit. It consists of Volatile oils, which make up .4 to 1.7% of its total volume. The chief components being: coriandrol, borneol, p-cymene, camphor, geraniol, limonene, and alpha-pinene. The characteristic bug like smell is due to the trans-tridec-2-enale content. Its Fatty oil content makes up 13 to 21% of its total volume. The chief fatty acids being: Petroselic acid, oleic acid, and linolenic acid. It also contains Hydroxycoumarins, including umbelliferone, and scopoletin.
The essential oil of coriander has been shown to stimulate secretion of gastric juices, and as such is useful as a carminative and spasmolytic agent. In vitro, it contains antibacterial and antifungal properties.
Coriander has been reviewed and approved by the German Regulatory Authority’s agency, “Commission E”. This agency has assessed peer-reviewed literature on over 300 common botanicals. Their conclusions are recognized as the foremost expert consensus on medicinal herbs available. They have approved coriander for general use for loss of appetite, and dyspepsia. Unproven folk medicine remedies include: digestive and gastric complaints, chest pain,
upper abdominal pain, bladder infections, rashes associated with leprosy, fever, dysentery, as an external poultice for headache, oral and pharyngeal complaints, uncomplicated halitosis, and in post partum recovery.
Health risks, or other side effects have not been reported with proper administration of therapeutic dosages. Coriander has been shown to have a weak sensitization effect. The recommended dosage is one gram, three times a day. If taken as a tincture, the recommended dose is 10 to 20 drops after meals. 2
Ayurvedic properties and usage’s:
3
The Sanskrit name for Coriander is Dhanyaka. In Traditional Chinese Medicine it is known as Yan shi. The parts
used are the oil, fresh fruit, and fresh plant, which is also known as cilantro, or Chinese parsley.
The energetics of Coriander are as follows: Its taste (rasa) is bitter and pungent. Its energy (virya) is cooling, and its post digestive effect (vipaka) is pungent. It is decreasing to all three doshas, although if the fresh leaves of the plant are used, its effect is decreasing to pitta and kapha, while neutral to vata. The spice specifically effects the digestive, respiratory, and urinary systems. Its actions are: alterative, diaphoretic, diuretic, carminative, and stimulant. It has proven useful in conditions of: burning urethritis, cystitis, urinary tract infection, urticaria, rash, burns, sore throat, vomiting, indigestion, allergies, and hay fever. There are few precautions for its use, except for high Vata, especially Vata in the nerve tissue (majja dhatu). It is prepared either as a cold or hot infusion, or by taking it in powder form of 250 to 500 mg, or the fresh juice of the fresh plant (cilantro). 3,4
“ Coriander seeds are a good household remedy for many Pitta disorders, particularly those of the digestive tract or urinary system. It is an effective digestive agent for Pitta conditions in which most spices are contraindicated or used with caution. The fresh juice of the herb is effective internally for allergies, hay fever and skin rashes; one teaspoon three times a day, but it can also be used externally for itch and inflammation.” 3 (p. 114)
CUMIN
Cuminum cyminum
Scientific, and western properties and usage’s:
Cumin is native to northern Egypt and Turkey. Today it is cultivated in the Mediterranean region, Iran, Pakistan,
China, India, South America, and the United States. The medicinal parts of the plant are the dried ripe fruit, and the oil. It consists of Volatile oils, which make up 2 to 5% of its total volume. The chief components being:
Cuminaldehyde, gamma-terpenes, beta-pines, p-cymene, and 1,3-p-menthandial. Its Fatty oil content makes up 10 to 15% of its total volume. The chief fatty acids being: petroselic, and palmitic acids. Its Proteic content is between 15 to 20%.
Cumin has demonstrated antimicrobial effects. It has been shown to retard the growth of mycelium, and toxin, or afla-toxin production in Aspergillus ochraceus, C. versicolor, and C. flavus. Cumin has also shown beneficial
4
mutagenic and blood-clotting effects. Other effects include: estrogenic, antispasmodic, diuretic, aphrodisiac, carminative, stimulative, and analgesic. Unproven folk medicine remedies include: usefulness as a carminative,
and for diarrhea and colic, both in the human population, and in veterinary medicine.
Health risks, or other side effects have not been reported with proper administration of therapeutic dosages.
Both internal and external modes of administration are applicable. The recommended single dosage is 300 to 600 mg of dried herb, which equals approximately 5-10 fruits.2
Ayurvedic properties and usage’s:
The energetics of Cumin are as follows: Its taste (rasa) is pungent and bitter. Its energy (virya) is slightly warming, and its post digestive effect (vipaka) is pungent. It decreases both Vata and Kapha, and does not overly increase Pitta. Cumin is used as a stimulant, carminative, diuretic, and lactagogue. It is also used in overcoming diarrhea and dysentery, when mixed with yogurt and water. It is especially useful for abdominal pain and distention. As it is useful in reducing abdominal gas, it is an aid to digestion and absorption, and helps to counter the effects of heavy foods, such as cheese, yogurt, beans, potatoes, or overeating. It is also used as an antidote for tomatoes, chilies, and other hot, pungent foods. Its qualities and usage are very similar to coriander and fennel, with which it is commonly used. 3,4
FENNEL
Foeniculum vulgare
Scientific, and western properties and usage’s:
Fennel is native to the Mediterranean region. Today it is found cultivated in England, Germany, South Tyrol, Argentina, Iran, China, and India. The medicinal parts of the plant are the oil, the dried ripe fruit, and the seeds.
It consists of Volatile oils such as: Trans-anethols, Fenchone, and Estragole. Their percentages vary depending upon whether the extraction is from the fennel oil, or the seeds. Additional Volatile oils found in smaller percentages include: alpha-pinenes, camphene, p-cymene, myrcene, limonene, alpha and beta-phellandrene, gamma-terpenes, terpinols, gamma-fenchen. Traces of hydroxycoumarins, such as umbelliferone, scopoletine, osthenol, scoparin, and
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traces of furocoumarins, such as bergapten, columbianetin, psoralen, and xanthotoxin are also present. In addition, Pyranocoumarins, Flavonoids, and Fatty oils are also present.
The seed has been shown to stimulate gastrointestinal motility. It has demonstrated an antispasmodic effect in higher concentrations. Fennel has been reviewed and approved by Commission E for: cough, bronchitis, and indigestion. Unproven folk medicine remedies include: mild spastic discomfort of the gastrointestinal tact, feeling of overfullness, flatulence, and upper respiratory tract colds.
Health risks, or other side effects have not been reported with proper administration of therapeutic dosages. Allergic reactions to Fennel are very rare. Individuals with an allergy to celery are more at risk for such hypersensitivities. The recommended dosage for the oil is 0.1 to 0.6 ml per day, and of the seed is 5 to 7gm per day.2
Ayurvedic properties and usage’s:
The Sanskrit name for Fennel is Shatapushpa, meaning that which possessed a hundred flowers. In Traditional Chinese Medicine it is known as Xiao hue xiang. The parts used are the oil, the fruit, and its seeds. The energetics of Fennel are as follows: Its taste (rasa) is sweet and pungent. Its energy (virya) is slightly cooling, and its post digestive effect (vipaka) is sweet. It is tridoshic, i.e. decreasing to all three doshas. Fennel specifically effects the digestive, urinary, and nervous systems. It is believed to act on several tissues of the body: lymph, plasma (rasa), blood, (rakta), muscle (mamsa), bone marrow, and nervous tissue (majja). Its actions are: carminative, antispasmodic, stomachic, stimulant, and diuretic. It has proven useful in conditions of: indigestion, abdominal pain, including cramps and gas, diminished agni, difficult and/or burning urination, and colic, esp. in children.
There are no known precautions for its use. It is prepared either as a infusion with 250 to 500 mg, or the roasted seeds may be chewed after meals, as a digestive aid. Fennel seeds are considered one of the most balanced and sattvic of all spices. 3,4
“ Fennel seeds are one of the best herbs for digestion, strengthening agni without aggravating pitta, stopping cramping and dispelling flatulence. They can be taken roasted after meals, one teaspoon, by themselves or with rock salt. They combine well with cumin and coriander as three cooling spices. Fennel seeds are excellent for digestive weakness in children or in the elderly. They are calming to the nerves, their aroma acts upon the mind and promotes
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mental alertness. For urinary problems, they combine well with coriander. Fennel can be used for digestive weakness where hot spices and peppers might overheat or overstimulate. They work to stop the griping of purgatives and can help promote menstruation and to promote milk flow for nursing mothers.” 3 (p. 117)
GINGER
Zingiber officinale
Scientific, and western properties and usage’s:
Ginger is native to southeastern Asia. It is today found cultivated in the U.S., China, India, the West Indies, and tropical areas. The medicinal part of the plant is the root. The root consists of Volatile oils, which make up 2.5 to 3.0% of its total volume. The chief components being: zingiberene, arcurcumene, beta-bisabolene, ar-curcumene, neral, geranial, D-camphor, beta-phellandrene, linalool, and (E)-alpha-farnesene. Their percentages vary considerably, dependent upon the country of origin. Aryl alkanes, including Gingerols, and Shogaols, and the Gingerdiol, Diarylheptanoids are also present. Ginger root consists of approximately 50% starch.
Ginger has been studied extensively in both in vitro and animal studies. Its effects are numerous. They include:
Anti-emetic, anti-inflammatory, anti-oxidant, antithrombotic, anti-migraine, anti-lipidemic and immune system stimulating effects. In addition, ginger has been shown to promote salivary, gastric, and bile secretions. Most anti-emetic medications produce their effects while acting on the CNS. It is believed that Ginger produces its effect by acting on the gastrointestinal tract itself. It increases both the tone, and the peristaltic activity of the intestine. 2
“One double-blind, randomized, non-placebo controlled study compared the effectiveness of Ginger and six other commonly used non-herbal drugs (scopolamine, dimenhydrinate with caffeine, cyclizine, cinnarizine, cinnarizine with domperidone, meclizine with caffeine) in 1489 participants during whale-watching voyages off the coast of Norway. 78.3% of those that took 500 mg of Ginger root 2 hours prior to a boat trip were symptom-free for the 6-hour duration. The incidence of severe vomiting did not differ in a statistically significant way between Ginger and any of the other test groups.” 2 (p. 339)
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In another study, “A double-blind, placebo-controlled study involving 120 females that underwent gynecologic outpatient surgery was performed. The participants were randomly given either 1 gm of powdered Ginger root or 10 mg of metoclopramide orally and evaluated for incidence of postoperative nausea and vomiting. Ten percent of the patients in the Ginger group had one or more episodes of vomiting. 17.5% of the metoclopramide arm and 22.5% of the placebo group had one or more episodes of vomiting. Fifteen percent of the Ginger group and 32.5% of the metoclopramide group required antiemetic treatment compared to 37.5% of the placebo group. The authors concluded that the Ginger group had a statistically significant lower incidence of nausea and vomiting when compared to placebo.” 2 (p. 340)
Ginger has been reviewed and approved by Commission E for: loss of appetite, travel sickness, and indigestion. Unproven folk medicine remedies include: carminative, and expectorant. Traditional Chinese Medicine uses ginger in the treatment of colds, nausea, and vomiting.
Health risks, or other side effects have not been reported with proper administration of therapeutic dosages.
Although the German Commission E recommends ginger not be used for morning sickness associated with pregnancy, several studies confirm the effectiveness and safety of its use by pregnant women. Common sense would dictate that excessive doses be avoided in this situation. As ginger does have a cholagogic effect, its usage should be restricted in individuals with known gallstone disease. Individuals who are risk for hemorrhage should not use ginger, due to its inhibition of thromboxane synthesis. Ginger has been reported to create hypersensitivity reactions producing dermatitis. Large overdoses of Ginger can lead to depression of the central nervous system, and also cardiac arrhythmias. As Ginger does have antithrombotic qualities, those with bleeding disorders should avoid large dosages. Ginger consumption on an empty stomach should be limited to 6 grams, as this amount of the powered root has demonstrated increased exfoliation of gastric surface epithelial cells in humans, and as such, may lead to ulcer formation. The recommended dosage for most conditions is 0.5 to 4 grams per day, taken in divided dosages. 2
Ayurvedic properties and usage’s:
The Sanskrit name for Ginger is Sunthi, or Nagara, in its dry form, and Ardraka for fresh Ginger. In traditional Chinese Medicine it is known as Gan jiang, dry, and Shen jiang, fresh. The rhizome is the part of the plant that is
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used medicinally. The energetics of Ginger are: Its taste (rasa) is pungent and sweet. Its energy (virya) is heating, and its post digestive effect (vipaka) is sweet. It decreases Vata and Kapha, while increasing Pitta. Ginger specifically effects the digestive and respiratory systems. Its actions are: carminative, stimulant, diaphoretic, expectorant, anti-emetic, and analgesic. It has proven useful in conditions of: indigestion, belching, abdominal pain, colds, flu, laryngitis, arthritis, hemorrhoids, heart disease, and for headache. Ginger should be used cautiously in cases of high fever, bleeding, ulcers, or inflammatory skin conditions. Ginger is prepared either as an infusion, decoction, in powder form of 250 to 500 mg, or by using the fresh juice.3,4
“ Ginger is perhaps the best and most sattvic of the spices. It was called vishwabhesaj, the universal medicine. As such, it was prepared by adding fresh ginger juice to ginger powder, mixing it in a mortar and pestle until it became a thick jam, whereupon it was rolled into pills. The proportion of juice to powder was upwards of 4 to 1. Two pills, about the size of a pea, were taken three times a day. With honey, Ginger relieves Kapha, with rock candy it relieves Pitta, with rock salt it relieves Vata.
Dry Ginger is hotter and drier than fresh. It is a better stimulant and expectorant for reducing Kapha and increasing Agni. Fresh Ginger is a better diaphoretic, better for colds, cough, vomiting, and for deranged Vata.
The uses of Ginger in digestive and respiratory diseases are well known. It is also good in arthritic conditions and it is tonic to the heart. It relieves gas and cramps in the abdomen, including menstrual cramps due to cold. Externally, it makes a good paste for pain and headaches.” 3 (p. 121)
The Chopra Center recommends several useful ways to benefit from the therapeutic qualities of Ginger.
“Our recipe for Ginger tea uses one teaspoon of grated root per pint of hot water. If the tea is a little too pungent for you, try adding a teaspoon of shredded or chopped licorice root along with the ginger. When used as an externally applied substance, obtain the fresh juice by removing the outer fibrous layer and putting the inner part of the root through a juicer. Then mix equal parts of the ginger juice with a carrier oil such as almond or sesame, and massage into the sore muscle or joint. To relieve a migraine, mix a tablespoon of dry powder with a few drops of hot water until it is the consistency of a paste, then apply to your forehead and temples and sit in a warm bath”. 1(p. 205)
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TURMERIC
Curcuma domestica
Scientific, and western properties and usage’s:
Turmeric is native to India. It is found today cultivated in India and other parts of southeast Asia. The medicinal part of the plant is the dried and cooked rhizome. The root consists of Volatile oils, which make up 3-5% of its total volume. The chief components being: alpha and beta-tumerone, artumerone, alpha and gamma-atlantone, curlone, zingiberene, and curcumol. It also contains Curcuminoids, which conprise 3-5% of its total volume. These consist of: curcumin, demethoxy curcumin, and bidemethoxy curcumin. It also contains: 1,5-diaryl-penta-1,4-dien-3-one derivatives, and also Starch, which comprises approximately 30-40% its total volume.
Turmeric has been found to have many useful therapeutic qualities, including: anti-oxidant, anti-tumoral, anti-microbial, anti-inflammatory, anti-hepatotoxic, anti-hyperlipidemic, and insect repellent effects.
Much recent research has been devoted to the beneficial qualities of Turmeric. It has been shown to have more
DNA protective qualities than the antioxidants beta carotene and vitamin E. It has been shown to stimulate the production of the cancer protective and detoxifying enzyme, glutathione S-transferase. It improves the anti-cancer, and anti-inflammatory properties of nitric oxide. It has powerful anti-inflammatory, and anti-ulcerative properties, orally, and topically. It serves to amplify the anti-cancer properties of other phytonutrients. It inhibits the growth of leukemia in the stages of initiation, promotion, and progression. It inhibits precancerous colon growths, suppresses colon cancer, oral tumors, multiple lines of breast cancer, and inhibits skin cancer growth when applied topically. In addition, it has been shown to enhance metabolism, help the body reduce undesirable fatty deposits, and protect against heart disease by reducing inflammatory causing bacteria in the blood circulation.
Turmeric has been reviewed and approved by Commission E for: loss of appetite, and indigestion.
Unproven folk medicine remedies include: indigestion, abdominal distention due to gas, feeling over full secondary to overeating, diarrhea, intermittent fever, bronchitis, colds, edema, worms, leprosy, inflammation of the kidney, cystitis, headache, flatulence, chest infections, colic, and amenorrhea. Externally, it has been used to help speed the healing of bruises, leech bites, infected wounds, eye infections, inflammation of the oral mucosa, and inflammatory
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skin conditions. Traditional Chinese Medicine has found Turmeric useful for pains in the abdomen, liver, stomach, and chest. In addition, it is used for heat stroke, nose bleeds, and vomiting with associated bleeding.
Health risks, or other side effects have not been reported with proper administration of therapeutic dosages.
Turmeric should not be used during pregnancy due to its reported antifertile effects. It is also contraindicated for those with diagnosed gall bladder disease. The recommended dose is 1.5 to 3 grams of the powder per day taken in divided doses 2 to 3 times a day, after meals. If taken as a tea, 2 to 3 cups per day, between meals is recommended. If taken as a tincture (1:10 strength), the recommended dose is 10 to 15 drops, 2 to 3 times per day. 2
Ayurvedic properties and usage’s:
The Sanskrit name for Turmeric is Haridra. In Traditional Chinese Medicine it is known as Jiang huang. The part that is used medicinally is the rhizome. The energetics of Turmeric are as follows: Its taste (rasa) is bitter, astringent, and pungent. Its energy (virya) is heating, and its post digestive effect (vipaka) is pungent. It is decreasing to Kapha, and can be increasing to Pitta and Vata, if taken in excess. Turmeric specifically effects the digestive, respiratory, and circulatory systems. Its actions are: carminative, alterative, stimulant, antibacterial, and vulnerary. It has proven useful in conditions of: indigestion, sore throat, cough, skin conditions, poor circulation, amenorrhea, diabetes, arthritis, anemia, and in wound and bruise healing. Turmeric should be used cautiously in
acute jaundice, hepatitis, and in pregnancy. It is prepared as an infusion, decoction, milk decoction, or by taking it in powder form of 250mg to 1 gram. 3,4
“Turmeric is an excellent natural antibiotic, while at the same time it strengthens digestion and helps improve intestinal flora. As such it is a good antibacterial for those chronically weak or ill. It not only purifies the blood, but also warms it and stimulates formation of new blood tissue.
Turmeric gives the energy of the Divine Mother and grants prosperity. It is effective for cleansing the chakras (nadi-shodhana), purifying the channels of the subtle body. It helps stretch the ligaments and is, therefore, good for the practice of hatha yoga.
Turmeric promotes proper metabolism in the body, correcting both excesses and deficiencies. It aids in the digestion of protein.
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Externally, it can be used with honey for sprains, strains, bruise or itch. It is tonic to the skin, for which purposes it can be taken internally as a milk decoction.” 3(p. 150)
MAXIMIZING THE BENEFITS OF SPICES
Now that we have reviewed the beneficial effects of these spices, the obvious next step is to determine the best way of incorporating them into our daily diet so we may maximize their qualities and enhance our health. The following spice formula is an excellent and appetizing way to accomplish this. In fact, we may find that many of the vegetables that we know we should be eating, but don’t because we have never enjoyed their taste, actually taste better with this flavor enhancing spice blend. In fact, combining the spices with vegetables actually enhances the beneficial properties of both.
Dr. R.K. Mishra’s Immunity Mix Spice Blend
Ingredients:
6 parts ground turmeric
6 parts ground fennel
3 parts ground cumin
3 parts ground coriander
1 part powdered dry ginger
1 part ground black pepper
¼ part ground cinnamon
Directions:
Mix the spices together well and store in an airtight container in a cool place, and away from direct sunlight.
Since spices contain both lipid and water soluble nutrients, in order to derive benefit from both fractions, one needs
a combined approach to maximize both types of nutrients. To get the full benefit from the water-soluble nutrients,
mix ½ teaspoon of the spice blend with vegetable soup, or one can add it to vegetables as they are cooking. If you
are eating out, or not cooking your own food, you can at least sprinkle the blend over the already prepared food at
the table. To get the full benefit from the lipid-soluble nutrients, heat 1 tablespoon of Ghee (clarified butter), on
medium heat until it melts completely. Then mix in ½ teaspoon of the spice blend and heat a few minutes until the
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aroma is released, being careful not to burn the spice. Then you can either add this spiced ghee to any other
dish just before serving, or instead, one can add veggies, rice, dahl, etc. to the mixture and cook for a few minutes,
and then add enough water and continue cooking until done. 5
REFERENCES:
1 Chopra, Deepak, and David Simon, THE CHOPRA CENTER HERBAL HANDBOOK, New York, N.Y.: Three Rivers Press, 2000.
2 Physicians Desk Reference, PDR FOR HERBAL MEDICINE, Montvale, N.J: Thomson Medical Economics, 2000.
3 Frawley, David, and Vasant Lad, THE YOGA OF HERBS, Santa Fe, New Mexico: Lotus Press, 1988.
4 Sharma, R.K., and Bhagwan Dash, CARAKA SAMHITA, translation, Varanasi, India: Chowkhamba Sanskrit Studies, 1997.
5 Sharma, Hari, and Rama K. Mishra, THE ANSWER TO CANCER, New York, N.Y.: SelectBooks, Inc., 2002.

Ayurvedic Recipe of the Day – Mung Burgers

Mung Burgers

Preperation time: 1.5 hours with a pressure cooker, 2 hours without

-Vata, -Pitta, moderately -Kapha

Serves: 5-6

From The Ayurvedic Cookbook, written by Amadea Morningstar with Urmila Desai

Ingredients:

• 1 cup whole mung beans
• 4-5 cups of water
• 2 tablespoons brown or wild rice
• 1 stick kombu
• 1/16 teaspoon hing
• 1 teaspoon sunflower oil
• 1/2 medium onion, finely chopped
• 1/2 teaspoon cumin seeds
• 1/2 teaspoon dry oregano
• 2 medium red potatoes, unpeeled
• 1 teaspoon coriander powder
• 1 egg white
• 1 teaspoon – 2 tablespoons stone ground mustard (the lesser for Pitta, Vata and Kapha can use maximum)
• 1 teaspoon sea or rock salt
• 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 2 tablespoons barley or whole wheat flour

Combine the mung beans, water, rice, kombu and hing in a pressure cooker and bring to pressure and cook for 25 minutes. If you are not using a pressure cooker, bring the beans to a boil with the rest of the first ingredients and then cover and cook over medium heat for an hour, or until soft.

While the beans are cooking, wash the potatoes and cut them in quarters, than eights. Chop the onion. Warm the oil in a large skillet and add the cumin, oregano and onion. Saute until the onion is tender and the herbs are lightly browned. Set aside and wait for the beans to be done.

When the beans are done, cool the pot in cool water to bring it down from pressure, open it, and add the potatoes. Cook uncovered until the potatoes are soft, about 20-30 minutes. Add the beans and potatoes to the herbs in the skillet and mash. Stir in the egg white, mustard and salt and pepper. Add the flour if the burgers need thickening. Form into patties and cook on a non-stick pan until brown, flipping to brown the other side. Or cook them on a cookie sheet in a 350 degree oven for 20-30 minutes. Makes 10-12 3″ to 4″ burgers.