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Amla

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What is Migraine?

Migraine is a medical condition in which a person experiences an extremely severe pounding headache. It can last for hours or sometimes even days. The ponding headache typically starts from the forehead, between the temples, or around the eyes. Migraine headaches get worse with time. A person experiencing migraine is sensitive to any movement, action, bright light, or loud noises. Any such sensation makes the headache worse. A person can also experience nausea, dizziness, neck pain, vomiting, extreme fatigue, and nasal congestion during a migraine. Severe migraines can affect a person’s daily life.

Are Migraine and Headache the same?

People usually confuse migraines with headaches. They think that a severe headache is known as a migraine, but in general, headache is one of the symptoms of migraine. The symptoms of migraine are more intense as compared to headache. Migraine is a medical chronic condition, and the cause is unknown. Headaches on the other hand can be triggered due to stress, depression, or anxiety and typically goes away in few hours.

What causes and trigger Migraine?

A migraine occurs typically in three stages, these are:

Stage 1: Prodrome

This stage involves emotional changes such as depression and anxiety. At this stage, a person will be sensitive to any movement, action, bright light, or loud noises.

Stage 2: Mild to Severe Headache

At this stage, the person may experience other common symptoms like nausea, dizziness, neck pain, vomiting, tiredness, and nasal congestion

Stage 3: Migraine Hangover

At this stage, the person feels extreme fatigue and irritability which may last for another 2 days.

Ayurvedic Treatments to Treat Migraine

In Ayurveda, migraine is known as “Ardhavabhedhaka” and the vital cause of migraine is due to tridoshic condition which causes an imbalance of pitta-vata and gathers Ama toxins. Following ayurvedic treatments are used to treat migraines. Depending on the severity of migraine, we can combine the treatment methods.

 

  • Triphala Churna

Triphala churna is an organic blend of haritaki, bibhitaki, and amla. It helps to improve nasal congestion and blockage.

  • Ksheera Ghrita

Ksheera ghrita is a glass of milk and ghee which is mixed to effectively treat migraine headaches.

  • Sitopaladi Churna

Sitopaladi churna is a combination of mishri, vankshalochana pepper, cardamom, and cinnamon. By using sitopaladi churna, increases the lung’s capacity and eliminates cough. It can also be consumed with honey.

  • Dhoomapana

Dhoomapana is used to lower levels of stress, depression, and anxiety. It calms the nerves the lighten to load on the head.

  • Nasya

This is one of the highly recommended “Panchakarma Therapy” to cure migraines or continued headaches. For better results, do it early in the morning on an empty stomach an hour before having a meal. This treatment provides significant relief from migraines.

Other Treatments to Treat Migraine

  • Yoga
  • Regular Exercise
  • Relaxation Techniques

 

References:

https://familydoctor.org/condition/migraines/

https://www.summahealth.org/flourish/entries/2020/08/migraines-vs-headaches-whats-the-difference

https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/148373

https://www.netmeds.com/health-library/post/migraine-bothering-you-try-these-versatile-ayurvedic-remedies-for-instant-pain-relief

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Today’s hot topic is – Top 15 DIY Ayurvedic and Natural Hair Care Ingredients

I am so excited to share this blog with you and i hope you enjoy reading this. 

Diet, low thyroid, high stress, auto immune condition environmental pollution, chemicals in commercial hair products and generally imbalanced Pitta or Vata dosha may lead to thinning, damaged and greying hair. Excessive consumption of caffeinated and high sugar beverages also contribute towards hair loss. We also tend to forget “oil” is food for hair health however we use shampoos more regularly which could lead dryer hair. Stress and anxiety may lead to hormonal imbalance which induce hair fall. In Ayurveda since hair fall or damaged hair is mostly due to Pitta dosha imbalance therefore many cooling oil and herbs are used in oils to make the best Ayurvedic herbal hair oil. Ayurveda also promotes herbs that are good for memory, intellect and overall brain health for hair health. Lightly warming these herbal oils before applying is highly encouraged.

Conscious Health’s Herbal Hair Mask is a great add on that can condition, nourish and moisturize your hair and scalp. There also Henna a natural herb that colours the grey hair for those who have dark hair.

Let’s learn more about Top 15 DIY Ayurvedic and Natural Hair Care Ingredients. They include herbs, oils, flowers, nut oils and fruits.

  1. Almond Oil: In South Asia one of the most popular oil for hair is almond oil (popularly known as “Badam Ka Tel” in India). Almond oilcontains various nutrients for hair such as Omega-3 fatty acids, phospholipids, vitamin E and magnesium. Almond oil nourishes, moisturizes and strengthens hair. Due to the nutrient density it is optimal for treating hair loss (or controlling hair fall) and treating damaged hair. However note that almond oil does not increase hair volume but may increase hair length and shine, reduce split ends, eliminate dandruff and reduce scalp/skin inflammation.

 

  1. Aloe Vera: There are only a few natural ingredients that are known to assist with hair growth and Aloe Vera is one of them along with castor oil, fenugreek seeds and cedarwood essential oil. Aloe vera contains vitamins A, C, E, B1, B2, B3, B6, B12 andfolic acid. It’s also rich in minerals like calcium, magnesium, zinc, iron, selenium and Aloe is a natural moisturizer that reduces dryness and dandruff (by removing the dead cells), maintains the pH balance of the scalp, detangles curly hair and conditions the hair (great for oily hair). Aloe Vera is rich in antioxidants and contains anti-microbial and anti-inflammatory properties which make it ideal of a treating Pitta condition such as hair fall. Aloe Vera can be used as a pre shampooing treatment – apply aloe vera gel on the scalp 15 minutes before shower.

 

  1. Brahmi: A superior Ayurvedic gem – Brahmi is used in Ayurveda for nourishment and to prevent hair loss. Head massaging using Brahmi oil increases blood circulation in the scalp and makes the roots of the hair stronger. Brahmi oil is used to treat dry, flaky scalp and dandruff. Brahmi used as a powder in a mask or oil can reduce pre mature greying, hair loss, promotes hair density, shine and treats scalp irritation.

 

  1. Castor Oil: Castor oil is an age old remedy to prevent hair loss or assist with hair regrowth. This is because castor oil has the ability to improve circulation and increase blood flow. It contains anti-inflammatory and anti-microbial properties. The anti-fungal properties in castor oil are Ricin and Ricinoleic acid which nourishes the hair. Castor oil is one of the few natural ingredients that stimulates hair growth, combats spilt ends, moisturizes hair and scalp, adds lustre and shine, prevents frequent hair fall or breakage, thickens hair, makes it grow longer fast and fights against dryness and dandruff. Castor oils contain omega 9 essential fatty acids, vitamin E, oleic acid, enzymes and minerals which makes it an amazing herbal remedy. Using cold-pressed, unrefined and extra virgin castor oil is best for hair health.

 

  1. Coconut Oil: I have growth up using coconut oil for my hair! My mother always said, “Oils are food for hair.” Coconut oil is best for Pitta dosha individuals as this is cooling oil that is also rich in vitamin E and K, lauric acid and minerals. Coconut oil contains anti-fungal, anti-viral and anti-bacterial properties and is rich in antioxidant. Coconut oil supports hair growth (length of hair), fights with dryness, dandruff, scalp infections and fungus, protects the hair from sun damage, as well as adds shine and lustre.

 

  1. False Daisy (Bhringraj): Another Ayurvedic herb for hair is Bhringraj used in many popular hair oils. It is an amazing remedy for pre-mature greying. Bhringraj is used for controlling hair loss, encouraging new hair growth, strengthening the hair follicles, fights dandruff, improve hair colour and texture. It also improves sleep and it fights against skin allergies. Bhringraj can be used as hair oil or powdered Bhringraj can be used in hair masks.

 

  1. Fenugreek (Methi): Methi or fenugreek is a well-kept secret as a natural medicine for hair growth. Fenugreek or methi prevents hair fall, promotes hair growth, eliminates dandruff and soothe dry and itchy scalp. Methi contains protein, Vitamin C, iron, potassium and lecithin – all of which are good for strong hair follicles, improves hair growth and makes the hair lustrous. Conscious Health’s Hair Mask contains fenugreek seeds. Best to purchase organic, cold pressed and extra virgin coconut oil for hair, skin or cooking.

 

  1. Hibiscus Flower: This is one amazing flower for hair health whether used fresh or dried. Hibiscus contains high vitamin C and A, iron and has anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and anti-bacterial properties. Making herbal hair masks with hibiscus flower paste or hibiscus infused oil can take care of hair loss, dandruff, improves hair shine, condition’s hair and promote hair regrowth (length and thickness). Note that both flower and leaves can be used to make a paste for a hair mask but flower may contain a little more nutrient. Add fenugreek (methi) or yogurt in the same paste for a health hair mask to combat dandruff. Hibiscus is also known to stop pre mature greying hair.

 

  1. Holy Basil (Tulsi): Tulsi contains many vitamins and minerals, notably vitamin A, K, C, folate, copper, iron, calcium and manganese. Tulsi also is an adaptogenic herb that contains high antioxidant properties such as flavonoids. It improves circulation and increase blood flow. Tulsi takes care of dry, brittle and damaged hair, combats dry, itchy scalp, pre mature greying, strengthens hair and promotes hair growth. Conscious Health’s Herbal Hair Mask also contains Tulsi. Apply fresh Tulsi leaf juice and add it to a hair pack/mask or dried powdered leaves mixed with yogurt for a hair mask.

 

  1. Indian Gooseberry (Amla): One of the most popular herbs in Ayurveda is an amazing tonic for the hair. Amla can be juiced or dried Amla can be used in a hair mask. Amla oil is extremely popular in India or South East Asian countries as hair oil. Amla contains an array of vitamins (notably vitamin), minerals and antioxidants. Amla can prevent hair loss, greying hair, combats dry scalp, dandruff, strengthens hair follicles and increase circulation which promotes hair growth. Amla contain anti-inflammatory, anti-microbial properties and has a cooling effect (suitable for Pitta dosha). Amla oil relieves scalp irritation and infections. The high nutrient content in Amla increases shine and lustre as well as conditions and nourishes the hair.

 

  1. Indian Spikenard (Jatamansi): Jatamansi is an Ayurvedic herb that has the ability to calm the nerves and the mind which is required for strong hair follicles and preventing hair loss. Add Jatamansi in powdered form for hair masks. Jatamansi also promotes relaxing and blissful sleep. Jatamansi is also known to prevent pre mature greying. Jatamansi oil is available in Ayurvedic stores in almond oil base which makes it a great product for hair care.

 

  1. Curry Leaves: In Ayurvedic medicine curry leaves infused oil is very popular for hair re growth (new hair growth) as well as promotes strong, shiny, thick and fast hair growth. It also reduces hair fall which makes it a wonder herb for thick and luscious hair. Curry leaves conditions the hair, reduces scalp infections, stops pre mature greying and has anti-bacterial affect. High in antioxidants such as vitamin A, C, E, folic acid and minerals such as iron, curry leaves are truly nourishing for hair.

 

  1. Ritha or Reetha: South East Asians use Ritha as a natural shampoo, cleanser and conditioner. Ritha helps prevent hair fall, adds volume and shine. Ritha also fights against dandruff and dried scalp. Using Ritha is like using a chemical free shampoo. Ritha contains anti-bacterial, anti-microbial and anti-fungal properties which help to fight against head lice. Ritha is available dry or powdered. Ritha with amla and shikakai (100 gram of each of the herb) can be boiled in two liter of water. Boil until half the water is remained. Strain and this water can be used as shampoo. For dark hair, make a paste with water and equal parts of henna and Ritha.

 

  1. Shikakai: Shikakai has several benefits which are specifically targeted for hair health; therefore Shikakai (Indian word) literally means “fruit for the hair”. Shikakai is used for cleansing the hair, promoting hair growth, preventing dandruff and strengthening hair follicles. Typically dried and powdered shikakai is mixed with water to make a paste and applied on the scalp and hair, to use as a conditioner. Shikakai has a low pH level therefore when using it to cleanse the hair it does not damage the hair or strip the hair from its natural oils. Shikakai is also used as a detangler.

 

  1. Neem: Best used as oil, neem oil is the best remedy to combat dandruff, dryness and lice (anti-microbial properties). Neem oil prevents hair loss and promotes hair growth. Add powdered neem, tulsi and amla to combat dry hair and eliminate dandruff problems.

A bonus ingredient I must mention for hair that is Apple Cider Vinegar.

Apple Cider Vinegar: Apple cider vinegar has many known benefits for hair and scalp treatment. Many people use apple cider to rinse their hair for stronger and shiner hair. Apple cider vinegar is used prevent breakage, split ends, stimulate hair growth, reduce frizz, detangle and to cleanse the hair. There are many natural shampoo, hair rinse or hair mask recipes that uses apple cider vinegar. Apple cider vinegar that contains the natural culture (also known as the mother) is the best to use. If you live in Canada or USA, you can use Bragg’s apple cider vinegar. It has anti-bacterial, anti-fungal properties and acetic acid that helps to balance the pH level of our scalp.

8 hair issues and top 3-5 herbs for them. I hope this chart is helpful

Cleansing Shikakai Ritha/Reetha Neem Apple Cider  
Strengthening Bhringraj Brahmi Fenugreek    
Hair Growth Aloe Vera Castor Oil Bhringraj Fenugreek Curry Leaves
Conditioner Shikakai Aloe Vera Hibiscus Yogurt  
Dandruff Fighting Neem Coconut Oil Castor Oil Brahmi  
Nourishment Almond Oil Castor Oil Aloe Vera Brahmi Fenugreek
Stops Greying Brahmi Bhringraj Tulsi Curry Leaves Jatamansi
Memory & Sleep Bhringraj Brahmi Almond Oil    

 

You should also check out this useful article that details Ayurvedic treatments for hair loss to get more information, recommendations, and recipes using some of the above-mentioned ingredients: HairLossRevolution

Check out Conscious Health’s Hair Mask in the herbal product category under shop. 

Herbal Hair Mask

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The best kept Ayurvedic Herbal Combination formula is Triphala. Triphala – A Daily Detox Tonic for a Complete Body Cleanse

Triphala is a Sanskrit word that means three fruits, Triphala is a combination of 3 fruits from three trees, Amalaki (Emblica Officinalis), Vibhitaki (Terminalia Billerica), Haritaki (Terminalia Chebula), It is the most popular Ayurvedic herbal formula of India

Botanical Names:
Emblica Officinalis, Terminalia Chebula, Terminalia Belerica

Dosha Triphala is tridoshic, therefore suitable for Vata, Pitta and Kapha.

Triphala is balancing and beneficial for all doshas. The herb has a rejuvenating effect and is best used to help reduce excess Kapha, Pitta and to treat Vata conditions such as constipation flatulence and indigestion.

Each three fruits of Triphala have following roles in balancing the Dosha’s:

  1. Amalaki (Amla) A rich source of vitamin C. A sour but cooling herb that balances Pitta.
  2. Haritaki (Harad) Contains anti-bacterial and antioxidant properties. A strong digestive tonic that balances Vata dosha.
  3. Bibhitaki (Bahera) A source of protein and linoleic acid that balances Kapha by reducing mucus in the body.

Taste

Triphala contains five of the six tastes sweet, sour, bitter, pungent and astringent. The strong tasting of the bitterness induces many other beneficial digestive secretions as well.

Benefits of Triphala

  1. This traditional herbal combination acts as a complete body cleanser.
  2. Triphala can detoxify and cleanse the colon and liver.
  3. It can purify the blood and nourishes your nervous system, blood & muscle.
  4. One of the best benefit of Triphala is – it aids digestion and increases nutrient absorption.
  5. This herbal formulation is used to assist in improving adrenal function.
  6. It eliminates excess mucous and also has laxative properties
  7. Triphala can enhance the immune system and reduce high blood pressure.
  8. Triphala has both anti-viral and anti-bacterial properties.
  9. It also has anti-cancer and anti-allergy properties.
  10. Triphala assists in weight management, appetite control and reduces serum cholesterol.
  11. Triphala is also widely taken for all eye diseases including the treatment of conjunctivitis, progressive myopia, the early stages of glaucoma and cataracts.
  12. Triphala can be prescribed during symptoms of inflammation, heat and infection. Because of its combined tonic and eliminative properties, it is generally quite safe to give even for deficiency diseases including anemia, fatigue, Candida, poor digestion and assimilation.
  13. Taking triphala every day can ensure having a clear and glowing skin. Triphala has an anti-aging effect on skin.
  14. Triphala promotes vitality and longevity.

 

Nutritional Value of Triphala (each of the three fruits)

Amalaki or Amla (Emblica Officinalis)

  • Amla fruit is also known as Indian Gooseberry and it is rich in vitamin C. Vitamin C builds immunity and is an effective antioxidant that removes harmful toxins from the body.
  • Amla helps to strengthen and nourish the lungs and the respiratory tract by removing mucus.
  • Vitamin C in Amla helps to maintain good reproductive health in both males and females
  • Amla helps to regulate menstrual cycles.
  • Amla induces iron that aids blood circulation and maintains proper functioning of the heart.
  • Its detox function helps in the formation of fresh tissues leading to a glowing skin.

 Bibhitaki (Terminalia Billerica)

  • Bibhitaki acts as a blood purifier and curbs hemorrhage.
  • It is an internal cleanser removing harmful toxins and excess fats out of the body.
  • It’s anti-viral and anti-bacterial abilities nurtures voice quality and improves eyesight.
  • Hair roots are strengthened and it enriches hair color.

 Haritaki (Terminalia Chebula)

  • It stimulates the functioning of the digestive systemand sensory organs.
  • It is an effective in combating piles, anemia, gastro-intestinal problems and gall stones.

How to take Triphala 

Triphala Tea 

The traditional way of ingesting Triphala is as a tea. This method allows one to taste the herb fully, and taste is considered by Ayurvedic to be an important part of the healing process. Taste starts the digestive process, and sends signals to the body as to what to expect, already initiating your body’s own inner pharmacy.

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Recipe:

½ teaspoon of Triphala

1 ½ cup of water

To take Triphala as a tea, make a decoction by adding ½ teaspoon of Triphala powder to a one and a half cup of water. Stir and allow the tea to cool and drink.

Note: If you have never taken Triphala before – start with ¼ teaspoon of Triphala powder.

 

Over time, as the system becomes more balanced, it is not uncommon for the taste one perceives to evolve into a sweet experience. Triphala is usually taken on an empty stomach, most commonly in the evening before bed. Some prefer to take it first thing in the morning, especially if taking it at bedtime makes one urinate at night.

 Precaution in using Triphala

Triphala is not recommended for acute diarrhea or during pregnancy. People who are underweight should avoid using this product as it will decrease weight.

Some potential Triphala side effects of high dosage of Triphala include diarrhea or an increased amount of gastrointestinal gas. In some cases, a person may have difficulty sleeping after taking the herbal combination. The severity of these side effects depends on the dosage taken.

Triphala Capsule

Alternatively you can also take Triphala Capsules. Here is the brand I like.

 

Triphala Capsules

 

As a nutritionist, I recommend clients complete a cleanse program at least twice a year. By undertaking this program, my clients learn how to cleanse using food, along with making lifestyle changes according to their body type. 

I have designed this programis is available on my website and includes meal plans, recipes and lifestyle updates for your dosha type.

 

 

 

 

 

 

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Ayurvedic Herbal Hair Mask Recipe is my mother’s own recipe. Of course everyone has their own version and this is my mother’s! Since she has been with me I have had the luxury of someone applying this on my scalp and hair bi-weekly. Oh…I get so relaxed that I want to sleep. I keep this on sometimes for over an hour. Be prepared to be pampered by this beautiful Ayurvedic Herbal Hair Mask Recipe – that will strengthen your hair, detox your scalp, reduce hair loss and keep the grey away for those who need it. Here are some benefits of each of the ingredients.

Benefits of Henna for hair health:

  1. Henna is a plant leaf – a natural, non-toxic coloring dye.
  2. Leaves hair silky, smooth and healthy.
  3. Reduces dandruff from your scalp.
  4. Gets rid of lice and worms.
  5. Cools the scalp and relieves headache.

Benefits of Amla for hair health:

  1. It is a natural hair conditioner which makes the hair shiny, add lustre, leave the hair smooth and silky naturally.
  2. It contains anti-dandruff properties, especially combined with Holy Basil or Tulsi. Also get rid of boils and itchy scalp.
  3. The high Vitamin C content ensures scalp is not dry and the essential fatty acid in amla also strengthens the hair follicles from root to tip.
  4. Reduces hair fall.
  5. Prevent premature greying.

Benefits of Shikakai for hair health:

  1. Contains all fat soluble Vitamins (A, D, E and K) and Vitamin C. These nutrients make the hair strong from root to tip.
  2. Has a very low pH so it does not strip the hair’s natural oil. Works as a detangler due to the same reason.
  3. Eliminates the chances of dandruff and dryness.
  4. Assists In hair growth.
  5. Moisturizes and conditions hair.
  6. Reduces the chance of premature greying.

Benefits of Yogurt:

  1. Contains protein and zinc that is beneficial for hair health.
  2. Strengthens the hair without drying it out.
  3. The lactic acid in yogurt stimulates blood circulation.
  4. A great conditioner for damaged hair.
  5. Gets rid of dandruff, boil and itchy scalp.
  6. Prevents split ends.

Benefits of Brahmi Oil:

  1. Prevents hair loss and split ends.
  2. Combats dandruff and dry scalp.
  3. Increases blood circulation.
  4. Keeps hair follicles strong.
  5. Acts as a hair stimulant and promotes hair growth.

Speaking of hair loss, we need to provide nutrients to the hair to nourish its growth, but also detoxify our blood. Toxin buildup contributes to hair loss and graying hair. Here is a great post about detoxification steps you can take with natural foods and supplements: 7 Day Detox For Hair

Now enjoy the recipe.

 

Ayurvedic Hair Mask Recipe
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Ingredients
  1. ½ cup henna
  2. ½ tsp. amla powder
  3. ½ tsp. shikakai powder
  4. 1 tsp. organic yogurt
  5. 1 tsp. brahmi oil or olive oil
  6. 5-6 drops of lime juice
  7. 1 tea bag (black tea)
  8. 2-3 drops of rosemary essential oil (optional)
Instructions
  1. Pour hot water in a cup and add the tea bag.
  2. When it cools down, take the tea bag out.
  3. In a bowl mix rest of the ingredients and add the tea water.
  4. Mix with a spoon until smooth.
  5. Apply the paste on your scalp and hair.
  6. Keep the mask on for at least an hour.
  7. Wash away using a conditioner or just plain water.
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