... and Cancer
There are hundreds of varieties of cancer. We do
not as yet know the exact cause of many of the varieties of
cancer and hence it is very difficult to verify a cure for
several of them. However if the cancer is detected in its
early stage, then many Ayurvedic procedures and herbs as
well as other herbo-mineral products can curtail the
advancement of cancer. Similarly some special herbs in the
group of Rasayana are very useful in treating cancer, as
their use prolongs the quality of life of cancer patients
by reducing pain and other discomforts. Following an
Ayurvedic lifestyle also reduces the risk of contracting
cancer.
... and Women's health
According to Ayurveda, the pelvic region is the
site of Apana Vata. Apana Vata governs the flow of
menstruation in the various menstrual channels as well as
the formation, growth and nourishment of the ovum. It also
governs conception and growth of the fetus. If it is
imbalanced due to improper diet, lifestyle, improper
intercourse, stress and age, a number of disorders can
arise.
Most women's diseases arise as a result of this aggravated
Apana Vata, so Ayurvedic treatments aim at balancing Vata
dosha in conjunction with strengthening, rejuvenating and
restoring function to the whole reproductive system.
Ayurveda and PMS. This is also known as premenstrual
tension, a term encompassing the emotional and physical
symptoms that affect women in the days leading up to their
monthly period. Symptoms include mood fluctuations,
depression, anxiety, and tenderness of the breasts, swollen
ankles, headache and lack of concentration. Causative
factors are generally stress, overwork, too much travelling
and poor nutrition. Any of the doshas may be involved but
it is primarily a Vata disorder due to its psychological
nature.
Treatment aims at not only restoring physical health but
also promoting a positive attitude in the patient.
Digestion must be restored with herbal preparations so that
toxins do not accumulate in the minute channels of the body
(srotas). The toxins cause obstruction to the free movement
of Vata. Cleansing herbs are given to rid the body of
toxins and tonifying herbs to strengthen the reproductive
system. Diet and lifestyle adjustments are advised such as
including yoga and meditation in the daily routine to
promote stability and contentment of the mind.
... and Heart Disease
In treating heart disease Ayurvedic physicians use several
methods, which result in the reduction for the generation
of free radicals, which can contribute to the disease
process in the arteries and heart. Meat, cigarette smoke,
alcohol and environment pollutants all generate free
radicals. By using specific heart food supplements and the
Panchakarma process, free radicals and lipid peroxides are
reduced.
... and Hypertension
Ayurvedic medicine treats hypertension according to
the metabolictype (Prakruti). Hypertension is found most
often in Pitta and Kapha types and is usually due to a
combination of genetics and
lifestyle. Patients are put on a diet low in sodium,
cholesterol and triglycerides. Yogic breathing exercises
help to relax the body and stimulate the cardiovascular
system and herbs are used in various combinations to reduce
hypertension and regulate blood pressure.
[Next: Ayurveda and Diabetes...]
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