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Vol 1. Issue 9. JULY 2014

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Printed and published by Rajgopal Nidamboor for and on behalf of Dr Mukesh Batra, 2nd Floor, H Kantilal Compound, Andheri-Kurla Road, Sakinaka, Andheri [E], Mumbai – 400 072 and printed by him at Parksons Graphics, 15 Shah Industrial Estate, Off Veera Desai Road, Andheri [W], Mumbai - 400 053. Editor & Publisher: Rajgopal Nidamboor © All Rights Reserved. Reproduction, in any manner, without prior written permission prohibited. Disclaimer: Homeopathy & You is committed to providing useful information on homeopathy, health and wellness. However, its content is not intended to provide medical advice or diagnosis for individual problems, or inferred to be a substitute for professional medical guidance. It is imperative for readers to consult their doctor/ healthcare professional or therapist, prior to starting any treatment, or practice, or attending to any questions thereto. The opinions expressed by writers and columnists are their own. They do not, in any way, or manner, reflect the views of the publisher, editor, or company.

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Letters Focus: Treat thyroid problems with homeopathy Homeopathic ‘Sunsigns:’ Know your personality; know your remedy. Dr Mukesh Batra distils the homeopathic Thuja Occidentalis, this month Medical Marvels: Case Reviews from homeopathic doctors How Homeopathy Helped Me Your Little Box: Homeopathic Home Kit: Veratrum Album Child Health: Homeopathy for common ailments Q&A: Doctor’s Orders For Women: Motherhood and childbirth What Lies Beneath: The science of balance and harmony Home[e]o Truths: Sweet pills for your pets’ wellness Living Well: Oil is well when used well Prevention is better than cure The Way We Were & Are Fitness Equipment Health Happenings Super Food: The power of two

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MAILBOX: READERS’ FEEDBACK RECOMMENDED READING I have been reading your magazine since January 2014 and I must say the quality of content is extremely good. I loved your June 2014 issue, especially the article on vitiligo, or white patches. I see so many people with this skin disorder. After reading your article, I am convinced that homeopathy works well in treating vitiligo. I would definitely recommend people affected with this disorder to read your article and opt for homeopathic treatment. Pradnya Ramesh, Bengaluru THANK YOU, H&Y After reading 4-5 issues of H&Y I thought of writing to you to appreciate your efforts in bringing out this wonderful magazine. I particularly enjoy reading the ‘Medical Marvels’ section, as it is really a surprise for me to know that homeopathy can cure even rare and difficult cases. A firm believer in allopathy, I am amazed by the fact that for some conditions, especially skin, even allopathy doesn’t have appropriate treatment. Homeopathy treats them without any side-effects. Thank you for bringing to the forefront such cases and the big difference homeopathy has made to so many people. Jacob Varghese, New Delhi

VARIETY FARE: READERS WRITE IN Our June issue evoked a gratifying response. Do write in with your comments, suggestions and even criticism that will help us and our readers to get better. Every month one ‘best’ letter will be awarded. Please E-mail your feedback/comments to

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GOOD MIX I am a big fan of H&Y for its good mix of medical and lifestyle content. I enjoy reading ‘Good Food’ by Tarla Dalal [I’ve also tried a few recipes and loved them] and ‘Good for You’ by Dr Richard Firshein. His article on using supplements in H&Y [June 2014] was an eye-opener. I also liked reading ‘It’s Your Job. Grab It,’ by Alan Jones. Sneha Awasthi, Indore ARTICULATE & INFORMATIVE Your June 2014 issue was very good, from cover to cover — I loved the overall content and presentation. I like reading Kerry Dulin’s ‘Fighting Fit.’ As a fitness enthusiast, I love Dulin’s clear details regarding proper fitness training. I also enjoy reading Badrinath Durvasula’s ‘Corporate Wellness.’

Homeopathy & You is looking for quality articles [600-800 words] on homeopathy, health, wellness, and lifestyle, that reflect the spirit of our publication. Professional homeopathic doctors may E-mail their ‘best’ cases [and, ‘best’ letters from their patients] too!

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LETTER OF THE MONTH I am a patient of a leading homeopathic practitioner. I truly believe in homeopathy and rely on it for the health and well-being of my family, especially my two children. I enjoy reading your magazine as I get to know so much about homeopathic healing in it. I particularly like Dr Mukesh Batra’s ‘Homeopathic Sunsigns,’ as it explores how your personality reveals so much about you. It is also interesting to know that personality traits help homeopathic doctors to prescribe the appropriate remedy. I like ‘Your Little Box’ too, because it provides information on treating simple health problems, including common injuries. By the way, I also loved reading ‘Natural Home Cleaning’ and ‘7 Effective Ways to Beat Stress’ [H&Y, June 2014].

Please submit your material/articles etc., by pasting it in the body of your E-mail [not as attachment], along with a brief description of the piece, your credentials to write it, your short bio, your photo [in high-resolution .jpeg format {300 dpi}; as attachment], contact information and anything you feel we should know. E-mail your submission to: editorial@homeopathyandyou.com Website: www.homeopathyandyou.com

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HOMEOPATHY & YOU | JULY 2014

FOCUS

HOMEOPATHY & THYROID DISORDERS: BUTTERFLY EFFECT* Homeopathy considers thyroid disorders a result of autoimmune glandular dysfunction. It provides a better chance of cure, because the treatment is patient-specific, based on the individual’s constitution — rather than a one size fits all approach — and, not just the disorder by its name alone.

By Dr AKSHAY BATRA

orty-five-year-old Aditi, a bank officer, presented with thyroid problems. Her cholesterol levels were high too. The conventional [allopathic] physician, who she consulted, three years ago, had put her on a thyroid medication, along with a cholesterol-lowering drug. She reported that she would feel better at times and worse at times. She thought of the homeopathic option, along with her regular medications, only after her open-minded doctor agreed to the idea. When we began to analyse her case-history, it was obvious that Aditi’s cholesterol levels had ‘zoomed’ following prolonged work-related stress. It also looked likely that her thyroid and overweight problems had worsened at the same time. We prescribed her the homeopathic remedy, Fucus Vesiculosus, made from seaweed, based on her

HOMEOPATHY & YOU | JULY 2014

presenting symptoms, especially her bloated feeling in the abdomen [‘excess gas’], and hyperacidity. After ten months of homeopathic treatment, Aditi’s thyroid and overweight problems responded favourably. Her cholesterol levels too reached ‘acceptable’ levels. The thyroid [pronounced thy-royd] is a gland. It is shaped like a little butterfly. It resides under the skin, in front of your neck. To find it, just touch your throat in the Adam’s apple area with one finger and the top of your breastbone — the flat bone that runs down the middle of your chest — with another finger. The thyroid gland is located in that small space in-between your fingers. It moves up and down when you swallow. The thyroid gland produces special chemicals called hormones. The two major hormones that the thyroid makes

and releases into the bloodstream are T3 [triiodothyronine] and T4 [thyroxine]. All the cells in the body need thyroid hormones to work efficiently. The thyroid hormones manage how quickly the body uses up energy. They regulate our metabolism; they are also key factors in helping children grow. The thyroid gland works like the thermostat in a gadget. If your thyroid gland is too active, it produces too much T3 and T4. It is like having a thermostat that’s set too high; the gadget gets overheated. If it’s not active enough, or if it’s set too low, it, like the gadget, gets too cold. Well, if it’s making just the right amount of thyroid hormones, it keeps the temperature right and balanced. The thyroid measures just about two inches and weighs less than an ounce. The thyroid gland is usually seen, or felt, when it becomes enlarged, with a prominent bulge, due to a condition called goitre, which your doctor can diagnose easily. The two thyroid hormones control the body’s chemical functions, or the rhythm at which they work. This is called the metabolic rate. They influence our metabolism in two ways: 1. they stimulate almost every tissue in the body to produce proteins; and, 2. they also increase our cells’ usage of oxygen. In addition, the thyroid hormones regulate a host of fundamental bodily functions, most notably heart and respiratory rates. They also establish the rate at which your calories are burned; they control skin function, growth, heat production, fertility and digestion. The thyroid gland needs the element, iodine, present in food and water, to produce the two thyroid hormones. When iodine is trapped by the thyroid gland, it is processed into thyroid hormones. When the hormones are being processed, a small amount of iodine is released, after which it returns to the thyroid gland and gets recycled — to produce more thyroid hormones. It may also be mentioned that the thyroid gland releases a tad less of thyroid hormones when exposed to high levels of iodine in the blood stream. Any imbalance of the two hormones, even if marginal, can trigger thyroid disorders.

HYPERTHYROIDISM Hyperthyroidism, or thyrotoxicosis, results from excess thyroid hormones [T3 and/or T4]. The disorder, a result of thyroid hyperfunction, falls into two groups: 1. Graves’ disease — characterised by toxic goitre and increased number of thyroid cells, which primarily affects women; and, 2. Plummer’s disease. This is characterised by overactive, or single and/or multiple nodules of the thyroid gland. Hyperthyroidism affects women 5-10 times more commonly than men; it can occur at any age, although it’s common in the 20-40 age group.

SYMPTOMS • Weight loss, tremors, elevated plasma levels of the thyroid hormones, and protrusion of one or both eyeballs

[exophthalmos] • Severe weakness, wasting, extremely high fever with ‘thyroid storm’ — a rare but a severe, potentially lifethreatening complication of hyperthyroidism • Excessive sweating • Lack of tolerance for heat • Palpitation, breathing difficulty, weakness, diarrhoea, or increased frequency of bowel movements. Note: It is unusual for a newborn to have hyperthyroidism, or neonatal Graves’ disease. The condition may, however, occur when the mother has Graves’ disease during pregnancy, or has undergone treatment for the condition before pregnancy. In Graves’ disease, the woman’s body typically produces antibodies that stimulate the thyroid gland to produce increased blood levels of thyroid hormones. The antibodies cross the placenta and affect the foetus. In the affected newborn, the metabolic rate may be too high and accompanied by rapid heart rate; the breathing may be quick too. There may be irritability accompanied by excess appetite, with little or no weight gain. Hyperthyroidism can affect all the systems in the body — however, the most important signs and symptoms relate to the cardiovascular [heart] and neuropsychiatric [nerveemotional] symptoms. The appearance and general behaviour of the individual may also clinch the diagnosis — the patient often presents with a wide-eyed, hollow-cheeked, agitated, restless, trembling appearance with rapid, bounding carotid artery [located in the front of the neck] pulsations.

HYPOTHYROIDISM Hypothyroidism is a condition in which the body lacks sufficient thyroid hormones. It leads to clinical signs of thyroid deficiency — low metabolic rate, weight disorders [obesity], sleepiness, and sometimes myxoedema, a relatively hard swelling of the subcutaneous tissue characterised by thickening of the skin, blunting of the senses and intellect, including laboured speech.

FACT-FILE Hypothyroidism affects about 10 per cent of women worldwide — and about 3-5 per cent of the general population. It often goes unnoticed — even though it makes one feel persistently weak and tired. The causes of hypothyroidism may tag along certain disorders of the hypothalamus or the pituitary gland. It is typified by reduced secretion of the thyroid stimulating hormone [TSH]. It may, likewise, be caused because of idiopathic agenesis [unknown cause or absence, or failure of formation], or imperfect development of the thyroid gland, or atrophy [wasting].

SYMPTOMS The symptoms of hypothyroidism are often present for years before a diagnosis is made. This is often due to the fact that symptoms are frequently imprecise and blurred

Note: The butterfly effect* is a metaphor that puts in a nutshell the concept of sensitive dependence on initial conditions [in chaos theory] — viz., a small change in a complex system can have large [homeopathic healing] effects.

HOMEOPATHY & YOU | JULY 2014

and/or attributed to non-specific causes. • A general sense of tired feeling, or lethargy • Physical and mental sluggishness • Muscular pain, menstrual problems and hair loss • Impaired hearing, loss of sensation and constipation • Angina [chest pain], including heart failure. The disorder affects every organ, or tissue, of the body, and also causes goitre — that’s the unique feature of the disease and subject to variation. The trademark signs may include a gruff voice, puffy eyes; other gross features may include slowness of expression and movements. Your doctor will look into your typically characteristic dry, scaly, cold and thickened skin — this is called as ‘strawberries-and-cream’ facial appearance; or, pale expression. • Thin lips with a light purple appearance • A foul odour emanating from the mouth • Scalp hair may be coarse or brittle • There may be bald spots • The pulse is often slow • Blood pressure may be a bit low. It may, sometimes, be normal, or elevated, with electroencephalograph [EEG] changes. EEG is a test that measures and records the electrical activity of your brain.

GOITRE Goitre is the enlargement of the thyroid gland. Though not usually uncomfortable, it may have a tendency to hinder your swallowing and breathing activities. The development of goitre does not, in essence, mean that your thyroid gland isn’t producing hormones in normal quantity. The fact sometimes is — an enlarged thyroid may produce less-than-normal, normal- or higher-than-normal amounts. Sometimes, the enlargement of the gland can be uniform. This is called diffuse goitre. In certain cases, the gland may be enlarged due to one or more nodules, or lumps, within a normal thyroid gland. This is called nodular goitre. The word goitre comes from the Latin, guttur — for ‘throat.’ Before the early part of the last century, the most common cause of goitre was a lack of iodine in the diet — especially in areas where the soil was wanting in the non-metallic chemical element. The inference is obvious — without adequate dietary iodine, your thyroid gland cannot manufacture and release enough of the two essential iodine-containing hormones. Goitre may often be seen in individuals who present with a kind of Parkinsonian tremor. The common eye sign is a prominent stare. Most individuals also have a rapid pulse. This may be because of sinus tachycardia [rapid beating of the heart], or atrial fibrillation, in which the normal rhythmical contractions of the heart are replaced by rapid irregular twitching of its muscular wall. Goitre became infrequent after iodised salt was first introduced in the early 1900s. Yet, the fact is goitre remains a common disorder in some parts of the world, because of iodine insufficiency. There is also an established link between hard, fluoride-containing drinking water and the prevalence of goitre. The incidence is, however, infrequent in areas with soft water and low fluoride levels.

HOMEOPATHY & YOU | JULY 2014

MYXOEDEMA Myxoedema, a severe form of hypothyroidism, may present with several neurological symptoms. These include — carpal tunnel syndrome [this is caused when the median nerve, which runs from the forearm into the palm of the hand, becomes pressed or squeezed at the wrist] and polyneuritis [pain in several peripheral nerves at the same time]. Other neurological symptoms that may be present are: slurred speech and ataxia, or lack of muscle co-ordination which may affect speech, eye movements, ability to swallow, walking, picking up objects, muscle cramps and stiffness, and loss of muscle tone. There may also be a delay in the relaxation phase of the ankle jerk, which your doctor will elicit. The disorder may present with anaemia and unusual psychiatric features or behaviour — ‘myxoedema madness.’

HAIR LOSS & THYROID Research suggests that nearly half of all adults experience thinning of hair by age 40. Also, about 20 per cent of individuals with thyroid disorders are evidenced to experience hair loss earlier and more quickly than the others. Hair loss, therefore, tends to persist in thyroid patients, notwithstanding appropriate treatment. Most patients do not often realise that their hair loss may be triggered by a thyroid disorder.

IN THE NEW BORN Hypothyroidism in the newborn could lead to poor growth and delayed mental milestones. This can, in due course, lead to mental retardation. The most common cause of hypothyroidism in the newborn is complete absence, or underdevelopment, of the thyroid gland. The downside is the newborn may show no symptoms. Diagnosis is often made when classical symptoms of lethargy, poor appetite, constipation, a hoarse cry, umbilical hernia — bulging of

the abdominal contents where the umbilicus penetrates the abdominal wall — make their presence, along with slow physical growth, more so when the infant develops crude facial features along with a swollen tongue. A blood test on the newborn is a procedure of choice — it helps to measure thyroid hormone levels and also institute appropriate, prompt treatment to prevent mental retardation.

CAUSES OF THYROID PROBLEMS • Deficiencies of iodine, B vitamins and certain minerals • Environmental toxins, micro-organisms, iatrogenic disorders [caused by a conventional drug, or medical procedure] and hormonal imbalance • Soy isoflavones — a type of phytoestrogens, compounds that have weak oestrogenic activity are strong thyroid inhibitors • Oestrogen dominance during perimenopause can suppress thyroid function • Broccoli, cauliflower, cabbage, and brussels sprouts — when eaten raw can cause thyroid disruption • Agricultural sprays, chlorine and fluoride in water • Radiation, ranging from nuclear plants and high power lines to common household items, such as microwave, TV, computer, water bed, electric blanket and certain electrical appliances have the potential of affecting the thyroid gland • Heavy metals like mercury, cadmium, iron and arsenic • Coxsackie virus, candida fungus overgrowth due to stress, low immune defence, antibiotic overuse, oral contraceptives and steroids.

10 SIGNS TO LOOK OUT FOR 1. Fatigue. In hypothyroidism, you may feel exhausted when you wake up, even after 8-10 hours of sleep. In hyperthyroidism, you may have night-time sleeplessness. This may make you feel exhausted during the day. 2. Weight changes. Difficulty losing weight can be a sign of hypothyroidism, even when you eat the same amount of food as usual. Unexplained weight changes can be a sign of both hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism. 3. Depression and anxiety. Hypothyroidism is most typically associated with depression, while hyperthyroidism is frequently associated with anxiety, or panic attacks. Depression may also be a sign of an undiagnosed thyroid disorder. 4. Cholesterol. High cholesterol can be a sign of undiagnosed hypothyroidism. Extremely low cholesterol levels could be a sign of hyperthyroidism. 5. Family history. If you have a family history of thyroid problems, you are at a higher risk of having a thyroid problem. 6. Menstrual or fertility problems. More frequent, heavy or painful periods are frequently associated with hypothyroidism. Short, light or infrequent menstruation may be associated with hyperthyroidism. Infertility may sometimes be a sign of undiagnosed thyroid condition. 7. Bowel problems. Severe or chronic [longterm] constipation is frequently associated with hypothyroidism. Diarrhoea or irritable bowel syndrome

[IBS] may be a sign of hyperthyroidism. 8. Hair and skin changes. Brittle, coarse skin and dry hair, which breaks off and falls easily, may be a sign of hypothyroidism. There may be severe hair loss with fragile, thin skin in hyperthyroidism. 9. Neck. A swelling in the neck, discomfort with neckties, a hoarse voice, or a visibly puffy thyroid gland can be a sign of goitre. 10.Muscle, joint pains and carpal tunnel syndrome. Aches and pains in your muscles and joints, weakness in the arms and a tendency to develop carpal tunnel syndrome in the wrist, or ‘tarsal tunnel’ [nerve pain] in the legs and pain in the feet [plantar fasciitis] may be likely symptoms of an undiagnosed thyroid disorder.

CLINICAL RESEARCH Thyroid and sleep quality. A group of men 65 years and older were included in a recent study. Each participant had thyroid function studies and an assessment of sleep quality. Anyone taking thyroid hormone replacement, or with abnormal levels of free T4 was excluded from the study. For study purposes, subclinical [early stage] hyperthyroidism was defined as a serum TSH less than 0.55 mIU/L and subclinical hypothyroidism as a serum TSH greater than 4.78 mIU/L. A total of 38 subjects [6 per cent] had subclinical hypothyroidism and 15 [2 per cent] had subclinical hyperthyroidism. Individuals with subclinical hypothyroidism had a slightly shorter, mean duration of waking after initially getting to sleep. There were no other differences in sleep quality. Subjects with subclinical hyperthyroidism reported sleeping 44 fewer minutes per night than euthyroid [normal thyroid gland function] men. It was concluded that subclinical thyroid disease was not associated with any significant alterations in sleep quality in older men. Thyroid and pregnancy. Decreased thyroid function can have a detrimental effect on pregnancy outcomes. A majority of thyroid specialists surveyed recently recommend thyroid function testing for all pregnant women. They also analysed the results of the survey that asked participating physicians whether or not to test pregnant women for thyroid dysfunction. More than 90 per cent of the respondents were endocrinologists. Universal thyroid screening in pregnancy was recommended by HOMEOPATHY & YOU | JULY 2014

74 per cent of the survey respondents. All were in favour of thyroid testing in pregnant women with symptoms of hypothyroidism, or a family history of Graves' disease. 99 per cent recommended testing for women with goitre. Depression and thyroid. When older individuals' thyroid glands are more active than average, it may be a risk factor for depression, according to new research published in The Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism [JCEM]. Beyond its role in regulating the body's metabolism, the thyroid gland also can influence mental and emotional health. Earlier research had found links between increased risk of depression and over- and under-active thyroid glands. The new study is the first to find an association between depression and thyroid activity variations within the ‘normal’ range.

HEALING WITH HOMEOPATHY Homeopathy is the medicine of minimal dose, vital stimulation, vital reaction, or auto-regulation. Example: the stimulus required to cause reaction in individuals who have become ‘oversensitive’ by illness is seldom material. The human body, as you know, manufacturers only fifty to a hundred millionth of a gram of thyroid hormone each day. Yet a ‘small’ excess or reduction, as you’ve read, in this already ‘minuscule’ amount can affect your health. Homeopathy considers thyroid disorders as a result of autoimmune glandular dysfunction. It provides a better chance of cure, because the treatment is patient-specific, based on the individual’s constitution — not just the disorder by its name alone. Homeopathic treatment is on its own useful. It can also be used as a supportive therapy for regulating thyroid problems — be it hypothyroidism, or hyperthyroidism. Homeopathic treatment is safe and has no side-effects. The best part also is — individuals on multiple medications can take homeopathic remedies as adjuvant with better treatment outcomes. Conventional [allopathic] treatment of thyroid disorders relies primarily on drugs and surgery. Homeopathic treatment, on the other hand, is aimed to improve thyroid function naturally. Homeopathic remedies work by stimulating the body's own healing capacity. They encourage the body to reactivate hormone secretions,

HOMEOPATHY & YOU | JULY 2014

replenish and reinstate thyroid physiology [function], while helping to heal the body. A recent study suggests that the estimated number of people with undiagnosed thyroid disease worldwide may be 15 per cent. Statistics indicate that over 150 million people in India may have undiagnosed thyroid problems — women are seven times more likely than men to suffer from thyroid complications. The risk is evidenced to increase with age — more so, in individuals having a family history of thyroid disorders. In an interesting study, the homeopathic remedy, Thyroxine 30X, was placed in water containing tadpoles. The study showed the ‘morphogenesis’ of tadpoles into frogs was slowed down for those who were exposed to the homeopathic doses, when compared to tadpoles that were given placebo [dummy pill]. The outcome makes sense from a homeopathic perspective, because thyroid hormone in crude [material] doses speeds up morphogenesis. What makes the study fascinating is the outcome has been replicated in several laboratories and the results have been consistent.

HOMEOPATHIC REMEDIES IN A NUTSHELL Calcarea Carbonicum is used to treat hypothyroidism in individuals with a sluggish disposition, who are overweight and snack too often, or sweat heavily. Fucus Vesiculosus has been used to treat thyroid disorders in individuals who complain of severe flatulence [gas] in the tummy with overweight problems. Iodum is generally used to treat hyperthyroidism, or an overactive thyroid, especially in individuals who are unorganised, or forgetful. Lapis Alba is useful for thyroid tumours. It is also indicated to resolving goitre. Lycopus is used to treat hyperthyroidism and longstanding goitre. It is especially recommended for people with a weak pulse that accelerates unexpectedly. Other classical symptoms include mental fatigue, irritability and respiratory problems. Spongia Tosta is useful for treating thyroid problems, especially hypothyroidism. Thyroidinum is used to treat hyperthyroidism and goitre in individuals who exhibit restless sadness. Important. Speak to a professional homeopath for appropriate guidance and advice as regards the right remedy and dosage, because thyroid disorders are complex.

HOMEOPATHY IS EFFECTIVE FOR PARATHYROID TUMOUR Parathyroid tumour is the growth of a lump inside the parathyroid glands. Parathyroid glands are small glands — they are located in the neck behind the thyroid gland. The primary purpose of the parathyroid glands is to regulate calcium level in our bodies. When calcium levels decrease, the parathyroid glands increase the production of parathyroid hormones [PTH] and vice versa. Most parathyroid tumours are benign [non-cancerous] adenomas; they do not progress to cancer. It is evidenced

that when the parathyroid tumour is not removed, or when calcium levels remain high for a long time, it increases the possibility of developing breast, colon, kidney and prostate cancer. Forty-five-year-old Mrinalini was suffering from symptoms of a parathyroid tumour for the past few months, although the condition actually developed over two years ago. She had previously consulted a conventional super-specialist [endocrinologist], who advised her to undergo surgery for the removal of the affected gland. She opted for homeopathy, because of her inherent apprehension for surgery. During case-taking, she complained of nausea, giddiness, vomiting and extreme tiredness. She was unable to drink a sip of water without vomiting it out. She also found it difficult to walk. Investigations revealed that her parathyroid hormone

level was extremely high. We ordered a CT scan — the presence of the tumour was again confirmed. Following a detailed case study, we prescribed Mrinalini an appropriate homeopathic remedy. Within a month’s time, her nausea and vomiting improved. After six months, she felt much better, although her husband was anxious and sceptical as her blood reports continued to show raised parathyroid hormone [PTH] levels. After one year of homeopathic treatment, her PTH levels came to normal; a CT scan showed no obvious parathyroid lesion. This case is proof enough of the homeopathic principle — that when you treat the ‘root cause,’ the progression of the disorder is stalled. In other words, it simply means that a homeopathic remedy, when started at the right time, could help to avoid complications, as also surgery.

SELF-HELP Have regular check-ups and pay attention to your symptoms. Report changes, if any, to your doctor

Hyperthyroidism

Include broccoli, brussels sprouts, cabbage, cauliflower, kale, rutabagas, spinach, turnips, peaches and pears in your diet — they help to curb thyroid production, naturally Caffeinated drinks and dairy products should be avoided Supplemental vitamin and mineral combinations, which can help ease hyperthyroidism, should be taken under medical supervision. Regular exercise and a high-fibre diet often help in maintaining thyroid function and preventing constipation

Hypothyroidism

Tea made from bladder wrack, or seaweed [Fucus Vesiculosus], is helpful in reducing weight and easing hypothyroid symptoms. Surgery may be required, if one has a ‘large-sized’ goitre with frequent relapses, notwithstanding medical treatment.

hirty-five-year-old Sita came to us with swelling on the right side of her throat. She had protruding eyeballs and a staring look. It all started with her second pregnancy, when she was diagnosed having hyperthyroidism, based on her high levels of thyroid hormone. She went from one doctor to another and as her condition did not respond to conventional [allopathic] medication, she was advised surgery. It was at this stage

orty-year-old Cheryl complained of irregular periods and was unable to lose her excess flab. In the last six months, she said that she had put on more weight than she’d lost. She attributed this to her deskbound life. She also complained of hair loss and thinning of hair. On examination, we found her hair to be coarse and rough. It also lacked the lustre of normal healthy hair. She reported that she was not tolerant of cold air and would often switch-off the fan, much to the annoyance of her husband

CASE STUDY

that she decided to opt for homeopathic treatment. We prescribed her Spongia Tosta, based on her presenting symptoms and personality. It took six months for her thyroid swelling to reduce in size and return to normal levels — much to her delight. This case demonstrates how a surgical problem like thyroid adenoma could be reversed with homeopathic treatment, and how one can also avoid the surgeon’s scalpel.

and children — even during peak summer months. We advised her to get her thyroid profile done. She returned with the report — hypothyroidism. We deduced, during case-analysis, that she felt insecure with her mixed fears and anxieties. We prescribed her Calcarea Carbonicum. We also advised her to go for a regular 30-minute walk, 4-5 days a week, and repeat her thyroid test after six months. Her thyroid levels were back to normal; this was followed by healthy weight loss too.

Dr Akshay Batra, the first-ever homeopath-trichologist from Asia to be elected President of the Trichological Society of London, his alma mater, is Managing Director, Dr Batra’s. He is the youngest and the first-ever non-UK-based trichologist to receive the prestigious Robert Olding Award for outstanding achievement in the field of trichology. He is also India's first hair specialist to be associated with the European Hair Research Society [EHRS]. His published work includes the firstof-its-kind, bestselling book, Hair: Everything You Ever Wanted to Know, which is available at all good bookstores and on www.flipkart.com. He lives in Mumbai.

HOMEOPATHY & YOU | JULY 2014

WHATâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S YOUR TYPE: YOUR PERSONALITY

THUJA: WHEN PRIDE & SENSITIVITY OVERLAP By Dr MUKESH BATRA

The homeopathic Thuja Occidentalis corresponds to serious, sensitive people â&#x20AC;&#x201D; people who get easily offended, or emote the feeling that they are not loved as much as others around them. Experts at ceremonies, they present a happy veneer or pleasing picture on the surface, not deep down.

huja Occidentalis belongs to the natural order of coniferae, a large group of cone-bearing plants. Thuja, an ornamental tree, is commonly referred to as arbour vitae, tree of life, or yellow cedar, although it has no association with cedar trees. Thuja was first used by native American Indians as a source

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of enduring wood and medicine for fever, cough, headaches, menstrual problems, muscle and joint pain. It became a part of herbal lore, following the arrival of European settlers. The homeopathic remedy Thuja was proved by Dr Samuel Hahnemann, MD [1755-1843], the founder of homeopathy.

The tincture of the green twigs is used for the preparation of the homeopathic remedy. Thuja corresponds to serious, sensitive people — people who get easily offended, or emote the feeling that they are not loved as much as others around them. Experts at ceremonies, they present a happy veneer, or pleasing image, but deep inside they may often carry negative emotions, without being really concerned of their clothes or appearance. This may expand into caution, manoeuvring and rebelliousness, followed by depression. Yet, what wobbles Thujas is their growing guilt factor — one that goads them to mask their perceived failings. This may lead them to try or pretend to be what they are not — being all things for everyone they come in contact with. This is primarily because they feel their flaws or weak points may be exposed. It takes them to the next level too — donning different roles in tune with where they are and the company they keep, including the social setting they are in. Thujas are handsome and beautiful; they are endowed with the perfect face, and muscular or athletic body. Illness ‘shows’ when they are not in the best of health. They are also far too focused about their diet, eating and drinking habits. This can reach fixated levels — for example, they may have their diet and fitness plan on a daily basis on an Excel sheet, or their mobile gadget. Thujas mould themselves on individuals, or celebrities, they admire, but without revealing or speaking about them. This is what that impacts them to overdoing things and indulging in excess, primarily because of their inflated egos, the ability and tendency towards performance and receiving a standing ovation for anything and everything they do. Put simply, Thujas believe in extra recompense — when they feel, or have a remote inkling, that there is something lacking in them, they wear a steely cover to conceal it. Delusion is part of Thujas’ mindset — also a fixated obsession that ‘everyone is trying to stage-manage

them.’ This often affects their sleep patterns and sleep. The rest is predictable — Thujas tend to be religious and work on their image make-up to present a new face, to get over their low self-worth. This extends to concealing their veiled sexual urges and taking refuge in the practice of religious tenets. For Thuja women, the thought of pregnancy brings on a sweeping sense of fear — or, it makes them feel that they are impregnated, leading to feelings of culpability. A keynote of the Thuja personality is a lurking, undulating sense of failing deep within, which bears the signpost that something is wrong with oneself. The best thing they do to surmount complexity is to avoid certain foods, including beverages, or medications they think may be the trigger. What next? Beat emotional stress by exposure to the sun, or cold wintry air. Besides, Thujas excel in the art of avoiding everything that has the potential to cause problems which they do not want to emerge. From the standpoint of psychiatry, Thuja is a remedy of choice for neurosis, or obsessive compulsive tendencies, fixed ideas and behavioural blues. What Thujas often dread is losing their face in the community — whatever one’s standing — because they strongly believe that they are decent, spotless and sincere with no attachment to dishonesty, or indecent sexual propensities. What if their true colours are discovered? They will feel that they have plunged from the lofty heights to the deep hole of their existence — it also leads to constant worry and anxiety of being ‘exposed.’ Thuja attaches a mound of confidentiality at the doctor’s clinic — no one around, including strangers, should know their health, or illness, status. Other unique ‘symptoms’ may include a feeling of floating

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things and lose sleep over inconsequential things. They don’t seem to be so focused on priorities — everything to them is important.

in the air, or dreams of falling from their ‘elevated’ position. The legendary homeopath Douglas Borland, MD, states that all Thuja patients “are truthful, scrupulous in everything they do.” In other words, they are so deceptive that you are convinced they are direct, open and candid. Thujas make good actors, without being one: diverse individuals in diverse situations. They tend to be ‘politically’ correct and take pride in perfection. They may lack spontaneity, albeit they think they are firm. Yet another delusion they may have is ‘being like glass’ — this represents their frailty and translucency, which they don’t want to be seen. They seek to be isolated. There’s a sense of alienation within and they feel incompatible with their environment. They can be oversensitive; they cling to their beliefs, but feel threatened when questioned about them. They love their dignity, while being pompous or showy. They often vacillate from being solemn and lacking in wit — they dread a gag, or joke, about themselves. They know which part of the bread needs to be buttered — and, they also know how to climb the corporate ladder by being sycophants. You’d spot Thuja when you see someone on the edge, hasty, restless or impatient — one who does not seem to have just enough time. Thujas’ spiritual beliefs are confined to the present, not so much the past. They can be rigid and dogmatic in their opinion – with no interest whatsoever in others’ views or beliefs. They’re sensitive to criticism and disagree on small

THE THUJA INDEX • Thujas are prone to bacterial [E coli], candida and fungal infections, herpes and warts. Or, polyps; or, disorders of the skin, ovaries, testes, pancreas, spleen, endocrine glands [thyroid] and kidney disease • All complaints are worse from eating sweets, onion, garlic, alcohol, or inhaling chemicals [sulphur and mercury]; most Thujas are sensitive to cold and wet • There may be increased water retention, leading to weight gain in most Thujas. There may be changes in weight during the day, or when the feet swell during travel, or on the beach • Thujas often have thickened, deformed, overgrowing nails, with elongated stripes and ridges • The facial skin may have old acne scars; or, loss of pigmentation • Hair may fall out, while the skin may peel off • Sweat on uncovered parts; or, sweat during sleep • Smelly feet, armpits and groin • Obsessive compulsiveness • Thujas are control freaks — they may have a history of abuse of drugs and alcohol, including addiction and gambling • They appear to be busy all the time; they are often workaholics and meticulous with a fad for work • All emotional pains are substituted for physical pain, atonement, or taking out anger on oneself • Self-love helps to often calm and comfort their various travails of life • The evasion of intimacy leads to religious leanings and a fundamentalist intent • There is a gripping fear of loss of inner control, with the illusion that one is under the spell of a weird, external power. THE THUJA KID Thuja children often appear to be dreamy, and may visualise of being in touch with natural spirits and the souls of their forbears. They may be sensitive to a fault, so much so the pressure of peers and parental expectations of everyday life become far too much for them to handle. This is what that urges them to defend or build a fortress around themselves. In so doing, they, more often than not, isolate themselves — this could trigger emotional and behavioural issues, or problems. When the homeopathic Thuja is prescribed to such children, it helps them to come to terms with themselves and connect with their own bearings. Thuja heals children who have a creepy fear of the mysterious, including strangers. It also brings about a sense of balance — this helps children to empathise well with unfamiliar people.

Dr Mukesh Batra, a homeopath of international repute, is Founder-Chairman, Dr Batra’s. In a career spanning four decades, Dr Batra has treated over a million patients, including presidents and prime ministers, and revolutionised the way homeopathy is practiced today. A writer, photographer, singer and philanthropist, Dr Batra has been honoured with several fellowships and over 50 national and international awards, including the Padma Shri by the President of India. He has authored several books, including the critically-acclaimed cyclopedic work, Healing with Homeopathy. He lives in Mumbai.

HOMEOPATHY & YOU | JULY 2014

MEDICAL MARVELS: LITTLE PILLS, BIG RESULTS

Pustular Relief By Dr SAURAV ROY, BHMS, Kolkata

hirty-year-old Amey presented with thickened dry skin on his palms and soles, along with deep painful cracks. He was diagnosed with palmoplantar psoriasis. Palmoplantar psoriasis [PPP] or pustulosis is a chronic inflammatory, recurrent skin condition. It causes pustules on the palms of the hands and soles of the feet. It affects the base of the thumb and sides of the heels. Pustules appear in a studded pattern on top of red plaques of skin, to begin with, but turn brown, after some time, peel off and become crusted. PPP is usually cyclical — new crops of pustules appear, followed by periods of low activity. The palms and soles affected by psoriasis tend to be partially, or completely red, dry and thickened, with deep painful cracks [fissures].PPP is considered by some clinicians to be a variation of psoriasis; it tends to occur in patients having other types of psoriasis. However, the nature of its connection with psoriasis is unclear, although there are some differences. About 10-20 per cent of individuals affected with palmoplantar pustulosis have psoriasis on other parts of the body. Following case-analysis, we prescribed Amey the homeopathic remedy, Nux Vomica 200C. After ten months of homeopathic treatment, Amey showed

favourable results. The dry, thickened pustules that had troubled him for long were no longer present. More importantly, there has been no reversal, or return of symptoms for two years now. The case highlights, yet again, the fact that homeopathy is safe and effective in the treatment of psoriasis.

Pimple ‘Detox’ By Dr ARUNA CHAUHAN, BHMS, Bengaluru

ineteen-year-old Raj, a college student, presented with severe acne on face, back and shoulder. He reported that the skin blemish had troubled him for the past 4-5 years. When we began to record his case, we found out that Raj also had itching, burning and scarring in the ‘troubled’ areas. It pained, he said, whenever fresh, new pimples emerged. He had tried conventional [allopathic] as well as homeopathic treatment earlier, but with no long-term positive results. Acne [pimples] is an inflammatory skin disorder of the sebaceous glands [small microscopic glands that secrete sebum, a natural lubricant]. Rising HOMEOPATHY & YOU | JULY 2014

hormonal levels and excess sebum in young girls and boys [during puberty] can trigger the problem. When excess sebum clogs the skin pores, acne is a likely outcome, along with pustules. Besides, poor personal hygiene can lead to a build-up of grease. This can block the skin pores and cause acne. Dandruff flakes are yet another cause of pimples, as also heredity, certain cosmetics, smoking and conventional drugs — steroids and anti-depressants — besides junk-food, emotional stress and pollutants. Some medical disorders, like polycystic ovarian syndrome [PCOS], may also trigger acne in women. Most of us can self-diagnose mild acne with ease. However, when you are uncertain, or if your problem seems to be severe, it is necessary to consult a medical practitioner. Acne is diagnosed by a simple visual inspection by your doctor. There is no special test for it, although ultrasonography [USG] can help diagnose an underlying problem, such as PCOS. After case-analysis, we found that Raj had no causal health issues. We deduced that the cause for his acne was excess sebum that clogged the skin pores. As far as his personality type was concerned, we found that Raj, by temperament, appeared to be an introvert. He would talk only to people who he knew well and vice versa. He did not appear to share his feelings with anyone, except his close confidants. He said he was ‘somewhat short-tempered,’ but only at home, not outside. He indicated that he would

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take a long time for any decision and always looked for suggestions from a few people close to him. He did not appear to be ambitious, but he showed signs of being extremely emotional. Consolation, he added, always gave him relief from his stresses and anxiety. We put him on the homeopathic remedy, Pulsatilla 200C, based on his presenting symptoms and personality. After eight months of homeopathic treatment, his acne reduced considerably. We followed him up for a few months — he is today free of his acne embarrassment and dark spots. He says that he can confidently attend social gatherings and also participate in college functions — something he had missed before due to acne.

Taming The Cyst By Dr R RAMPRASAD, BHMS, Thane

wenty-year-old Ananya weighed 104kg when she presented with symptoms of irregular menses which appeared once in four months in isolated, scattered patterns. She was diagnosed with polycystic ovary syndrome [PCOS]. PCOS, also called hyperandrogenic anovulation [HA], is one of the most common endocrinal [hormonal] disorders among women. It has a diverse range of causes which are not entirely understood,

Tress Returns By Dr SAPNA VIG, BHMS, Hyderabad

albeit there is strong evidence that it may largely be a genetic disorder. PCOS produces symptoms in approximately 5-10 per cent of women of reproductive age [13-45]. It is thought to be one of the leading causes of subfertility. The most common symptoms of PCOS are anovulation [lack of ovulation], excess androgenic [male] hormones, and insulin resistance. Anovulation results in irregular menstruation, amenorrhoea [lack of periods], and ovulation-related infertility. Hormone imbalance generally causes acne and hirsutism [unwanted, male-pattern hair growth in women, especially on face and hands]. Insulin resistance is associated with obesity, type-2 diabetes, and high cholesterol levels. The symptoms and severity of the syndrome vary greatly among affected women. Following diagnosis and detailed case history, we prescribed Ananya the homeopathic remedy, Pulsatilla 200C. She did not respond to treatment for a couple of months. She continued to have irregular periods. This prompted us to put her on Lachesis 200C, another homeopathic remedy, primarily because of her personality portrait — frenzied lifestyle, abrupt mood swings, inability to stop speaking and left-sided headache. Following ten months of homeopathic treatment, Ananya’s reports showed significant improvement. Her ovaries and uterus were normal in size; there was no evidence of ovary cyst.

wenty-five-year-old Arshiya presented with bald patches [alopecia areata] that had turned to alopecia totalis [total hair loss on head] since a year. Arshiya had no other associated complaints. However, because of the fear of being ridiculed and laughed at in public, she never stepped out of her house without a scarf covering her head. She cried several times, during case-taking, as she had lost her self-confidence and was unable to lead a normal social life. Her parents were extremely troubled because her low self-confidence — for an otherwise bright woman — affected her. The cause of alopecia totalis is unclear, but it is evidenced to be an autoimmune outcome. Stress is thought to be a contributor, although most people with the disorder lead relatively low-stress lives. Whether the individual has thinning of hair or distinct bald spots, the loss of hair can be extremely frightening for the affected individual and family, as the condition can lead to complete loss of confidence. This often affects the individual’s personal life, career or studies. The good news, however, is that with proper diagnosis, most cases of hair loss can be treated successfully with homeopathy. We prescribed Arshiya the homeopathic remedy, Calcarea Phosphoricum 200C. We thought of the remedy, primarily because of Arshiya’s feelings of great diffidence with regard to her health and social concerns. She appeared depressed and weary, at the physical and emotional level — a feeling that led her to feel restless and tentative. This was followed by Fluoric Acid 30C. Within a year-and-a-half of homeopathic treatment and regular follow-ups, Arshiya regained her hair — something she had earlier thought was a ‘lost cause.’ Her case demonstrates that homeopathy works effectively in cases of alopecia totalis, leading to return of ‘lost’ hair. Today, Arshiya leads a happy social life. She has also regained her self-confidence and is doing well in her career.

HOMEOPATHY & YOU | JULY 2014

HOW HOMEOPATHY HELPED ME

Adios, Allergies

y son, Master Shashish Panda, was suffering from allergic bronchitis. When we opted for homeopathic treatment, he was prone to frequent allergies and infections. His immunity, as his paediatrician told us, was poor. I have seen a great deal of improvement in his respiratory symptoms, including healthy weight gain, better food intake and health, ever since we started homeopathic treatment for him. We thank Dr Sachin Patil for treating my son with his sweet homeopathic pills, advice and follow-up. What we are truly impressed with is — Shashish no long requires his cyclic doses of antibiotics, thanks to his homeopathic therapy sessions with Dr Patil. — Sanskrut Panda, father of Shashish Panda, a patient of Dr Sachin Patil, BHMS, Bengaluru

Pain Gone

t all began with pain in the knee, followed, as my local doctor put it, by inflammation. There was little relief with the prescribed conventional [allopathic] medications. This prompted me to meet Dr Sourangshu Banerjee at his homeopathic clinic. After ten months of homeopathic treatment, I became relatively free from pain in my knee joints. Soon after, I started taking homeopathic treatment for my lumbar bone pain too, because I was subject to frequent, or moderate to sometimes severe pain in my backbone and neck. I continued with my homeopathic treatment, till recently. I am feeling significantly better. My doctor says that I may have to continue homeopathic treatment for a few months. However, if any other complaint were to crop up, during this time, no problem. I will start homeopathic treatment for it, right away, because it is always better to ‘nip’ a health complaint ‘in the bud’ with homeopathy. — Ritu H, a patient of Dr Sourangshu Banerjee, BHMS, Kolkata

HOMEOPATHY & YOU | JULY 2014

YOUR LITTLE BOX: HomeopatHic Kit FoR eveRy Home

VERATRUM ALBUM: BEYOND GASTRIC DISTRESS veratrum album is most useful in sudden or severe gastrointestinal disorders, with excess vomiting and diarrhoea. it is also as useful to ‘pep-up’ a poor immune system, or treat symptoms of collapse, including psychological problems, such as depression. By Dr SEJAL PAREKAR

eratrum Album, or white hellebore, or false hellebore, is native to mountainous terrains, damp pastures, and open woodlands of central and Southern Europe, North Asia and Africa. It was first used by the ancient Greek physician Hippocrates to treat one of his young patients who had contracted cholera. It was first proved and established as a homeopathic remedy by Dr Samuel Hahnemann, MD [17551843], the founder of homeopathy. The fresh root is taken before flowering, chopped, softened by soaking in alcohol, and succussed, for use as a homeopathic remedy. Veratrum Album works best in individuals who appear to be fidgety, self-satisfied, exceedingly critical, arrogant, glum, and introverted, or who hate being alone. A hyperactive or manic state, with changeable behaviour, may also be suggestive for its usage. Physical symptoms often include an extremely cold skin and perspiration with chilliness extending to the breath and tongue. The Veratrum patient often presents with a blue pallor, a rapid pulse, weakness, anaemia, extreme thirst with a strong desire for ice-cream, a paradoxical sign. Symptoms tend to be worse for damp cold, more so at night, following bowel movement, or after eating fruit. The remedy is most useful in sudden, severe gastrointestinal disorders, with excess vomiting and diarrhoea. It is also as useful to ‘pep-up’ a poor immune system, or treat symptoms of collapse, including psychological problems, such as depression. DIARRHOEA • Severe diarrhoea, possibly with vomiting — the trigger being cholera, dysentery, gastroenteritis, or other digestive disorders • Watery, green, or colourless stools; painful cramps may accompany stools. This is followed by exhaustion and dehydration • Great thirst for cold water and a ravenous appetite, as well as cravings for sour foods, ice cubes, and salt

• Symptoms better by lying down, hot drinks, warm foods, and milk; symptoms worse by touch, movement, and cold drinks. EMOTIONAL ISSUES • Behavioural disorders such as hyperactivity or emotional gloom with brooding and aloofness • There may be uncertainty about social position or a want of it. This may interestingly overlap with hard-nosed ambition and illusory splendour, or of being the victim of some disaster • Symptoms better by warmth, lying down, especially in children who are carried around • Symptoms worse at night, exertion, fright, before and during menstruation, or wounded pride. COLLAPSE & EXTREME EXHAUSTION • Weakness with a moist sweaty forehead, ‘blue-tinged’ skin, dehydration, and likely fainting • Cramps, violent vomiting, and diarrhoea, especially in pregnancy • Acute anxiety, menstrual pain, or heatstroke • Symptoms better by being covered, lying down • Symptoms worse by touch, at night, bowel movements and cold drinks. VOMITING & NAUSEA • Violent vomiting with nausea • A cold feeling in the abdomen, with damp sweat, salty saliva, along with diarrhoea and collapse • Symptoms better by lying down, when covered, hot drinks, warm foods and milk • Symptoms worse by touch, least movement, at night, and cold drinks. The keynote symptoms include: copious diarrhoea, vomiting with exhaustion, cold perspiration, ‘blue-tinted’ skin, fainting, hyperactivity, or depressive feelings. Dosage. Veratrum Album 30C, 4-5 pills, thrice daily, or as prescribed, or advised, by your homeopathic doctor.

Dr Sejal Parekar, BHMS, is a Mumbai-based homeopath.

HOMEOPATHY & YOU | JULY 2014

CHILD HEALTH

HOMEOPATHY: YOUR CHILD’S BEST FRIEND Children are sensitive individuals; they need safe and effective treatment for their ailments — big or small. Homeopathy offers them this big advantage. By Dr SAMIR CHAUKKAR

hildren just love sweet, little homeopathic pills because they don’t taste awful like conventional allopathic pills and some syrups are wont to. Yet another advantage is homeopathic remedies can be administered even to newborn babies with ease and safety. Fever, for instance, is our body’s internal security mechanism to fight or ward off the infectious

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trespasser. Except for the existence of fever, not many children show signs or symptoms suggestive of an underlying illness or disease that may co-exist with fever. It is exactly here that homeopathy plays a key role — finding the possible cause for the illness, the source, and treating the illness, safely and effectively. Many conventional physicians today are of the view that vaccines suppress our immunity, leaving us

this, in turn, improves brain, behavioural and emotional function.

susceptible to a number of illnesses. Homeopathic remedies do not cause such problems. They are friendly on the system. They cause no tissue damage. They protect and they also treat. Homeopathy is safe, non-toxic and effective in prophylaxis too. For example, the homeopathic remedy, Parotidinum, works well as a preventative remedy, or natural ‘vaccine,’ for mumps; Influenzinum for flu, and so on. Homeopathic remedies have been found to be effective not only in acute and chronic illness, but also psychological and developmental disorders in children.

95 PER CENT OF CHILDREN FEEL BETTER WITH HOMEOPATHIC TREATMENT Fifteen-year-old Jason suffered from unrelenting nasal allergy, with persistent sneezing and profuse, watery discharge, with every change of weather. He appeared withdrawn, because he’d not, as a bright student, as his parents put it, “recall whatever he’d read when he’d write his exams.” He slowly began to show no interest in most activities and showed signs of depression. He felt better in open air; worse, indoors. We prescribed him the homeopathic remedy, Natrum Muriaticum, based on his presenting symptoms and temperament. After ten months of treatment, Jason’s allergies no longer troubled him; he looked self-assured; his school grades too improved. Physical and emotional illnesses are on the rise. More and more children today are being diagnosed with allergies, skin disorders, such as atopic dermatitis [eczema], asthma, anxiety, depression, low immunity, memory problems and attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder [ADHD]. Blame it on constant pressure to excel in school, extracurricular activities and sports — not to speak of peer and parental expectations — we are all witness to a stressful spectacle that most children just can’t cope with. The big question is — is it a healthy sign for children, who have allergies, skin problems, asthma, memory problems, or depression, to take powerful medicines at a tender age? Would you, as parents, not want them to grow up as happy, ‘normal’ children? This is where homeopathy comes like a breath of fresh, therapeutic

ALLERGIES Homeopathy is ideally suited for treating allergies, caused by emotional issues, dust, food, pollen, mould, pet dander, and other substances. Homeopathy first treats the allergic reaction; it then ‘desensitises’ the child against the allergen [the allergy-causing substance]. Homeopathy helps to build the child’s defence system too to a level where it does not react to allergens as before. ADHD & BEHAVIOURAL DIFFICULTIES Homeopathy considers each child as being different from another child. What causes a problem in one child does not cause it in another. Homeopathy assesses each child and treats them individually, based on their unique, characteristic symptoms. New research suggests that most of the behavioural disorders in children are metabolic in nature, they are not mental disorders. To succeed one must first aim to correct the child’s metabolism. Homeopathy also helps to improve the child’s behaviour and learning ability by giving a suitable remedy that improves bowel function;

HOMEOPATHY & YOU | JULY 2014

TONSILLITIS-ADENOIDS Many children suffer from a condition called sleep apnoea, which causes snoring. Sleep apnoea is a condition with irregular breathing patterns during sleep. It leads to lower blood levels of oxygen. The most common cause of sleep apnoea is enlarged tonsils and adenoids, which partly block the airways during sleep. Homeopathy assesses the cause of snoring, mouth breathing and behavioural issues. It prescribes remedies based on the child’s unique, particular symptoms. Following homeopathic treatment, most children are able to avoid surgery — i.e., not have their tonsils and adenoids removed. Homeopathy is equally effective and safe in the treatment of other health concerns in children — viz., exam stress, nervous disorders, stage-fright, stress and weight problems.

air to bring about a perceptible change in your child’s health — a big relief for parents. A recent clinical study conducted at a large homeopathic group of clinics on a group of 1,762 paediatric patients, whose parents regard the treatment as the ‘most preferred’ and scientifically ‘proven’ solution for children’s disorders, showed ‘better’ in 95 per cent of cases and ‘same as before’ in just two per cent of cases. ASTHMA Homeopathy treats asthma and asthma-like symptoms holistically. It’s a common practice to place ‘asthmatic’ children on conventional medications without proper evaluation. This simply means that most children, showing asthmatic symptoms today are taking medicines that they do not need [not to speak of side-effects; some of them being serious]. Homeopathy treats the ‘cause’ of cough, wheezing and asthma — in so doing, it corrects the ‘soil’ that triggers allergies, or asthma, in the first place, safely and without side-effects. ATOPIC DERMATITIS [ECZEMA] Homeopathic remedies offer not just tangible relief from atopic dermatitis [eczema] symptoms; they get to the ‘root’ cause of childhood eczema. The aim of homeopathic treatment is to identify and treat the ‘cause,’ not just treat eczema, or any other skin disorder, including acne, merely on the surface, or by its name, or from outside. Dr Samir Chaukkar, MD [Hom], is a Mumbai-based homeopath.

HOMEOPATHY & YOU | JULY 2014

COMMON QUESTIONS ANSWERED My seven-year-old daughter looks extremely pale. I feel she is not growing as she should. Please advice. Your daughter seems to be presenting with symptoms of anaemia and imperfect assimilation. I’d suggest that you consult a local homeopathic doctor for her constitutional treatment. In the meanwhile, however, you’d give her the homeopathic remedy, Calcarea Phosphoricum 30C, 4-5 pills, twice daily — an effective remedy for ‘stunted’ growth and anaemia in children. You’d do well to also include plenty of iron-rich foods, such as dark green leafy vegetables, kidney beans, soybean, broccoli, jaggery, dates, raisins, etc., in her daily diet. Please let us know her progress. My ten-year-old son often gets tonsils infection and complains of pain in the throat on swallowing. Each and every time we have to take him to the local doctor for treatment and, may be, a course of medicines or antibiotics. I don’t want to bombard his system with so many antibiotics. His tonsils are ‘inflamed, painful, and discoloured;’ and the tip of the tongue looks, as I’ve seen, ‘red.’ The doctor says that my son has hard, inflamed neck glands too. Can homeopathy help? Homeopathy offers safe and effective treatment for tonsillitis. The remedies are gentle on the body and absolutely safe. Also, there is no problem in administering the remedy to children since they love the sweet taste of homeopathic pills. I’d suggest that you consult a homeopathic doctor for his constitutional treatment. Meanwhile, you’d give him the homeopathic remedy, Phytolacca 200C, 4-5 pills, twice daily. Just a word of advice: please discourage your son from consuming artificially coloured and flavoured candies, sweets and foods — they are prime tonsillitis triggers. Besides, the intake of cold foods and cold drinks should also be avoided.

DOCTOR’S ORDERS

By Dr MUKESH BATRA LCEH, FSRH [MED] P [LOND], MDH [USA], FBIH [UK] PADMA SHRI RECIPIENT

I am a 39-year-old housewife. My doctor says I have interstitial cystitis. I experience a ‘stinglike’ pain when I pass urine. Allopathic medications have given me no effective relief. Can homeopathy help? Interstitial cystitis [IC] is infection of the urinary bladder. The obvious symptom is an intense urge to urinate frequently. The passing of urine is often accompanied by pain. Antibiotics may provide relief; but, they have no effect in the long-term. What you eat may be the culprit — so, try to eat right. Certain foods may contribute to bladder irritation. Examples: tomatoes, spices, chocolates, coffee, caffeinated and citrus beverages, high-acid foods, and alcohol. Avoid canned cheese, yogurt, onion, monosodium glutamate [MSG], sweeteners and nuts too. Low-impact aerobics, walking, yoga, meditation, or listening to soft, soulful music, may be helpful. Get a soothing massage. Wear loose-fitting, cotton clothes. You could take the homeopathic remedy, Apis Mellifica 200C, 4-5 pills, twice daily. Please consult a local homeopath, if your symptoms persist.

My five-year-old son eats well. He’s active, but looks frail. He complains of tummy pain while eating and is, I think, not growing up like other ‘normal’ kids. Need your advice. Most children don’t eat well nowadays. Parents often complain that their ‘growth’ is not equal with their age and nutrition, or tonics just don’t work. There may be nothing wrong with your child. He’s simply not able to absorb nutritive elements. We call this imperfect, or improper, assimilation. You may certainly use homeopathy to correct your child’s faulty eating mechanism, so that he is able to relish [healthy] food and absorb the natural nutrients

growth and development. Calcarea Phosphoricum 200C, 4-5 pills, twice daily, would be appropriate for your child’s ‘problem.’

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My 65-year-old mother complains of ‘nightmarish’ dreams often. She feels drowsy all day. Anything for her in homeopathy? A dream is nature’s best gift, but not if they are awful, nightmarish dreams. Certain dreams, as your mother seems to get in her sleep, may affect one’s health and upset the mode or normal rhythm of sleep. Homeopathic treatment may be useful in driving away nightmarish dreams. However, before one begins treatment, one needs to know every bit of information that comes from the patient’s thoughts, ideas, emotions, sentiments, sensibilities. Your mother should relax before going to sleep, not watch TV. As far as homeopathic remedies are concerned, Paeonia Officinalis 30C, 4-5 pills, twice daily, would be helpful for her ‘horrid’ dream spells.

I am worried about my husband, a 35-year-old executive. He loses his cool easily. He always wants to do something, achieve something great at the workplace, or get a real, big job soon, but somehow holds back. Please Do you have a health help. question? Need an To stay cool and composed all the answer? time happens outside the corridor E-mail your health of reality. There is not a single healthy questions to: expertadvice@ person who doesn’t have a chain of homeopathyandyou.com minor conflicts. For many of us, there Renowned homeopath is sometimes excess pressure and also Dr Mukesh Batra will disagreement with our emotions. Your answer your questions. husband needs to let go, relax and focus. We call his mode of concern as ‘Jekylland-Hyde’ type of dilemma — what one ‘will’ wants to do, the other rejects. There’s nothing wrong with him. Impress upon him the need for a weekend getaway; a time to experience fresh air, or the smell of grass. Anacardium Orientale 30C, 4-5 pills, twice daily, would be the remedy he needs in it for proper to regain his ‘good’ confident self.

HOMEOPATHY & YOU | JULY 2014

FOR WOMEN

MOTHERHOOD & CHILDBIRTH Childbirth is a joyous, profound and significant time for all parents. Each birth is different and, in some ways, it is impossible to plan everything right. All the same, and irrespective of whether it is natural home birth, or hospital delivery, homeopathic remedies can be of great help in the lead-up during childbirth and after-care. By Dr MUKESH BATRA

here are many possible challenges and difficulties during childbirth. Physical. Nausea, constipation, reflux, backache, slow labour, weak contraction, cramping and exhaustion. Emotional. Fear, anxiety, agitation and mental exhaustion. Post-partum problems. Bruising and soreness, excessive bleeding, fatigue, depression, sleeplessness and mastitis. FIRST TRIMESTER [1-12 WEEKS] Nearly 80 per cent of pregnant women experience nausea and vomiting during the first trimester of pregnancy. These symptoms are often worse in the morning, but can occur at any time of the day. Morning sickness is usually at its worst between weeks 6 and 12; nausea and vomiting can be a problem at any stage of pregnancy. This is usually caused by hormonal changes and increased levels of progesterone. Some women may feel worse when their stomach is empty; so, it is a good idea to eat several small meals throughout the day. Many women also feel extremely tired during the early weeks. Frequent urination is common; there may be a creamy white discharge from the vagina. Some women crave certain foods like pickles and nonfood items like chalk — this is called pica. Sometimes, extreme sensitivity to smell may worsen the nausea. SECOND TRIMESTER [13-28 WEEKS] Appetite may increase. By the 22nd week, most women would have felt the baby move. During the second trimester, nausea and vomiting often fade away; the pregnant lady feels better and energetic. Heart rate increases, as does the volume of blood in the body. The second trimester of pregnancy is generally less eventful than the first. This is the time to undergo various tests, to determine the Rh factor, Venereal Disease

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Research Laboratory [VDRL], urine and blood pressure and rule out kidney problems. Diseases in the mother, either inherent or contracted, can damage the foetus. For instance, jaundice can bring forth stillbirth, chickenpox, or cause foetal varicella defect syndrome. Likewise, venereal disease can lead to congenital syphilis and diabetes can cause post-maturity problems. All these can be effectively and safely tackled with homeopathic treatment. THIRD TRIMESTER [29-40 WEEKS] By this time, many women begin to experience a range of common symptoms. Some feel warm, sweat easily and find it hard to be comfortable. Kicks from an active baby may cause sharp pains and lower backaches are common. Around the 36th week, the baby’s head drops down low into the pelvis. This may relieve some pressure on the upper abdomen and the lungs, allowing the woman to breathe more freely. However, the new position places pressure on the bladder and the rectum causing other complaints of pregnancy, such as increased urinary frequency, constipation, acidity and piles. The infant’s position in the womb gradually begins to shift in preparation for its arrival into the world, and with this the baby’s weight pulls the lower part of the mother’s body forward, causing her to compensate by increasing the pelvic tilt and curving the small of her back. This may give rise to backaches. In addition, the expanded uterus can also increase the possibility of varicose veins in the lower extremities due to tardy blood supply. HOMEOPATHY DURING CHILDBIRTH During childbirth, the cervix is sometimes slow to dilate, there is pain, excessive bleeding, retained placenta, and other difficulties. Homeopathy can help the mother

have easy delivery with relative comfort. A double-blind, placebo-controlled trial reports that the length of labour for those taking homeopathic treatment was on an average three hours 38 minutes shorter than those taking a placebo [dummy pill]. The number having difficult births was also substantially lower at 11 per cent with the homeopathic remedy as against 40 per cent with the placebo [Source: Cahiers de Biotherapie, April 1987, 94: 77-81]. A study carried out in Switzerland revealed that in pregnant women, using homeopathy, the frequency of situations requiring Caesarean section was remarkably low [Source: Hochstrasser B, Mattmann P, 1999, Mainstream Medicine Versus Complementary Medicine [Homeopathic] Intervention: A Critical Methodology Study of Care in Pregnancy, Switzerland]. NEWBORN Asphyxia. Soon after the baby enters the world, the infant announces its presence with its first breath, the characteristic mewling. The doctor’s first problem with the safely-delivered new life is when the mewling does not take place on schedule. This is common in premature, weak babies and those born of mothers who were heavily sedated. Also, if the umbilical cord is twined around its neck, the child will asphyxiate and be unable to cry and take its first breath. Neonatal Jaundice. Almost 60 per cent of children develop jaundice during the first few days of birth. This

starts from the second or third day, reaches its peak on the sixth day and starts diminishing; it usually disappears within ten days. Most of the time, this is physiological in nature and needs no treatment. But, certain types of jaundice may complicate matters, such as haemolytic jaundice, resulting from a congenital absence of bile ducts; or, obstructive jaundice. While certain cases need surgical intervention, others respond well to homeopathic remedies used for jaundice. Infantile dermatitis. Children who suffer from infantile eczema tend to have dry skin. They also have a high sensitivity to itching, together with an increased risk of developing other atopic illnesses like asthma, allergic rhinitis and allergies. Homeopathic remedies treat skin diseases holistically without any side-effects. They stimulate the body’s own healing mechanisms, thereby minimising the chances of recurrence and offer long-term solutions. A clinical trial was conducted in Obitsu Sankei Hospital, Saitama, Japan; in cases of intractable atopic dermatitis [IAD], 88 per cent showed reduction in itching, 77 per cent showed improvement in sleep due to overall improvement in IAD. The overall results showed that 75-80 per cent of patients were better with homeopathic medicines. Note: It is not advisable to ignore complaints during pregnancy as this could have repercussions on the development of the foetus. Though some complaints are common, if they affect you more than is ‘normal’ consult your obstetrician without delay.

CASE 1

wenty-eight-year-old Shanti came to us because she was experiencing recurrent abortions. She had conceived thrice earlier; each time she had lost her baby in the third month. She was now two months pregnant. When we took her case history, we found that she habitually aborted in the sixteenth week. Based on this indication, we prescribed her Apis Mellifica. She was asked to follow-up during the following month; but, she missed her appointment. She came eight months

later with a box full of sweets and a cuddly baby in her arms, a normal full-term baby. She said since her in-laws were so protective, they did not allow her to go out of the house; so, she could not visit our clinic for follow-up. EXPERT’S VIEW Homeopathy helps in cases of recurrent abortions, effectively and safely.

CASE 2

wenty-three-year-old Nandini came to us with continuous vomiting. She was two months into her pregnancy. Her day would start and end with vomiting. She was not able to retain anything — neither water nor food. The only thing she liked was pickles; she said she was ‘just surviving on them.’ She also said that her attending gynaecologist had prescribed some medications, but they had not helped her. Based on her lean, thin constitution and intense craving for pickles, we prescribed her Sepia Officinalis. It took less than three days to control her vomiting. Besides this, her appetite was back to normal and she began to put

on weight. Seven months later, she was delivered of a healthy, full-term baby. EXPERT’S VIEW Hyperemesis gravidarum, or morning sickness of pregnancy, can be persistent in certain women — this can sometimes lead to a drop in blood sugar levels and cause dehydration. Homeopathic remedies, prescribed by a professional homeopathic doctor, on the basis of the cravings of the mother-to-be, can correct such problems.

HOMEOPATHY & YOU | JUlY 2014

HOMEOPATHIC HAPPENINGS

“THIS IS NO PLACEBO EFFECT”

he limited efficacy of — and, daytime sedation after taking — drugs for the treatment of neuropathic pain, mentioned in The Telegraph, UK, has prompted a reader to report his experience with the homeopathic remedy, Aconite Napellus, the ‘queen of poisons,’ to columnist James LeFanu, a British physician, medical journalist and author of several books. Aconite in large doses “causes almost instantaneous death” — but, it is much favoured by homeopathic practitioners as a remedy for sciatica, trigeminal neuralgia and similar

complaints. “I have never really believed in homeopathic remedies,” the reader wrote to LeFanu, but he was impressed by Aconite’s effectiveness, when taken as two tablets, every two hours, in treating the “deep, electricshock-type pain in my feet.” His symptoms gradually worsened [“At night, I felt as if a sparkler was exploding under my toes”], warranting treatment with the antiepileptic drug carbamazepine, but the homeopathic Aconite, he writes, still helps to control exacerbations, or flare-ups: “This is no placebo effect.”

DRINKABLE SUNSCREEN: THE FUTURE OF UV PROTECTION

t a time where conventional wisdom about the strength of sunscreens is being challenged by new evidence, could the answer to our worries about sunburn and skin cancer be assuaged with drinkable potions? The press is apparently sceptical; but, Osmosis Skincare says they can. The company reports that their potable homeopathic product, which is called Harmonised H2O UV Protection, vibrates on the skin once ingested, cancelling out up to 97 per cent of

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UVA and UVB rays. The product comes in two varieties, ‘tanning’ and ‘non-tanning.’ The former is supposed to allow users to achieve a tan without harmful side-effects. The company suggests that water in the product delivers “beneficial radio frequencies to the cells as a carrier.” According the homeopathic principles, everything in our body vibrates at its own frequency and nobody has so far found a way to change that.

FIRST HOMEOPATHIC REPELLENT PILL KEEPS MOSQUITOES AT BAY

rin Bosch is the President and CEO of Xerion Homoeopathie, a clinic in Northwest Calgary, Canada. In her homeopathic research, she came across a study, from the 1960s, which proved that a combination of homeopathic remedies would help to keep mosquitoes, ticks and other blood sucking insects at bay. She began selling the remedy in her clinic and when clients kept on coming back for more, she realised that it was time to share her product with the world. Erin set out to improve the formula and gain regulatory approval. Soon Mozi-Q was on store shelves across Canada. “Mozi-Q,” she says, “allows people to enjoy the outdoors without being ‘bugged.’” The product is made from Staphysagria, a plant-derived substance that, in the 1960s, was discovered to be a natural insect repellent. While results vary from person to person, 90 per cent of people who use the product have noticed that mosquitoes, black flies and other bugs stay away. This has baffled scientists — some people are more susceptible to bites than others. Some can’t leave home without being attacked by bugs, while others can leave every outdoor party, or golf game, unscathed. Mozi-Q is designed to change a person’s susceptibility to bites, so that insects are less likely to prey on them. After taking Mozi-Q, most people notice a drastic reduction, with many not even noticing the mosquitoes anymore. People who are usually considered ‘lunch’ by mosquitoes

may still get a few bites, but the effects subside quickly without the usual irritation and swelling left by the six-legged bloodsuckers. A great ally for all outdoor enthusiasts, Mozi-Q is a safe and effective tool for campers, golfers, hikers and anyone who wants to enjoy the outdoors without being annoyed by mosquitoes. The product’s leaflet says it works within 30 minutes; is non-toxic and has no side-effects; repels mosquitoes and other bugs; can be taken every 2-3 hours prior to going outdoors; and, can also be used in conjunction with other therapies.

HOMEOPATHY & YOU | JULY 2014

WHAT LIES BENEATH: MYSTERIES OF HOMEOPATHY

THE SCIENCE OF BALANCE & HARMONY Homeopathy believes that the human body functions like a well-balanced, harmonious network of interconnected systems — and, not just as individual systems working independently of each other. By Dr RAjGOPAL NIDAMBOOR

e live in ‘a pill for every ill’ society. This is primarily due to the fact that most people have been ‘coached’ through print, electronic and other media to accept the idea that pharmaceutical, or conventional [allopathic], drugs are the best, or perhaps the only, answer to most medical problems that exist today. Our ‘drug-inclined’ society has also been taught to ‘take something’ in order to stop the symptoms of the body and control — in fact, suppress — any distressing sensations, such as a runny nose, sinus congestion, headache, hyperacidity, gas, diarrhoea and so on, the moment they appear. It actually seems harmless to take a conventional over-the-counter [OTC] medication — though it is not. The problem is people don’t give a damn to what ‘symptoms’ really mean, or are. Let’s take fever, as a case in point. The high body temperature, in fever states, along with sniffles, cough, and body ache, are the body’s response to the offending organism, bacteria or virus. The organism did not ‘make’ the fever, although this is part of the process. It is actually the body that produces certain subtle changes to ‘purge’ the intruder. The point is simple — by taking an anti-flu medication, you have not really treated the reaction, but suppressed the body’s natural defence against the virus. When one pumps a conventional pill for every ill, the drug may actually hamper the body’s own natural ability to surmount the problem. Following years of such suppressed symptoms, the same drug — this is called the pharmacological rebound effect — would be required in higher dosages to work, when symptoms of the same illness return. Besides, it can actually prevent the immune system, or defence, from responding rapidly and also effectively on its own. What next? It leads to drug-resistance, or what is referred to as iatrogenic disorders — or, drug-induced diseases.

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Symptoms are, from the homeopathic point-of-view, the outward manifestation of disease, or illness, not the cause of it. From the homeopathic perspective, therefore, a ‘specific’ remedy that is ‘appropriate’ to the illness is needed to trigger the body’s own natural response to the illness or disease process. 12 THINGS TO KNOW WHY HOMEOPATHY IS GOOD FOR YOU 1. Patient-centred medicine. Homeopathy emphasises on ‘patient care’ rather than ‘disease care.’ It believes that it is more logical, also imperative, to know what individual has the illness than to know what illness the individual has. 2. Treats the interconnected web of functional factors. New research supports the homeopathic view that the human body functions as a well-balanced, harmonious and synchronous network of interconnected systems, rather than individual systems working autonomously, or independently, without effect on each other. For example, we now know that immunological dysfunctions can trigger heart disease, dietary flaws can cause hormonal disturbances, and environmental factors can precipitate neurologic syndromes — e.g., Parkinson’s disease. 3. Preventative medicine. Homeopathy does not only treat symptoms alone; it stimulates the body’s natural defence mechanisms. It investigates a patient’s temperament, personality, lifestyle and background to be able to think of him, or her, as a unique individual. Homeopathy builds up your bodily, or systemic, resistance, while taking into account your well-being and helping your systems to prevent illness and disease before they get established. 4. No side-effects. Homeopathic remedies are derived from natural substances that come from plants,

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minerals, or animals. They have no side-effects. They can be used on infants, babies, children, during breastfeeding and pregnancy, youth, adults and in the elderly. However, it is always imperative to consult a professional homeopathic doctor for proper guidance and effective treatment. Low-cost. Conventional [allopathic] medicine seems to be getting far too expensive. Homeopathic remedies are quite inexpensive — most people can afford to use them without upsetting their monthly budgets. In countries like France, for example, expenses incurred on homeopathic treatment, when prescribed by a doctor, are reimbursed by the government. Ease-of-use. Children, even the most fussy of them, love those little ‘sugar pills.’ It is easy-to-take. Homeopathic remedies can be dissolved under the tongue, or taken in liquid form or drops. They can also, in any form, be easily dissolved in water and taken. Reduces the use of antibiotics. Antibiotics for viral infections can be unsafe. Antibiotics are effective in treating bacterial infections; their overuse, or misuse [in viral conditions, primarily because of self-treatment, not doctor’s advice] which is common, can increase the risk of antibiotic resistance, the bugbear of conventional medical practice today. Homeopathy is effective for both viral and bacterial infections; it is also much less expensive than antibiotics, or other conventional medicines. Effective before and after surgery. Homeopathic remedies can be used to prepare the patient physically and psychologically for surgery, including dental procedures, and hasten the healing process. They can also be used to prevent bruising, bleeding, nausea and anxiety, preoperatively and also post-operatively Treats a wide range of medical conditions. From treating simple fevers, other illnesses and allergies to gynaecological conditions, homeopathy can also be effectively used in emotional, psychological and a host of chronic physical or bodily illnesses. It is effective, no less, in alleviating symptoms caused by pregnancy and menopause. There are dozens of effective homeopathic remedies for nearly every medical condition, except certain emergencies such as major accidents, heart attack, or stroke and mechanical problems like hernia. Be that as it may, homeopathic remedies can certainly be used, with good, or synergistic, effect, alone, or to complement and optimise the outcome of conventional medicines, especially in disorders such as high blood pressure and diabetes. Not tested on animals. Conventional medicines undergo extensive laboratory testing, primarily on animals. Homeopathic remedies are non-toxic; they are tested on healthy people who can best describe — subjectively and independently — how each remedy affects them in both health and illness. Not placebo [dummy pill]. Homeopathy has been

used on children, for a variety of illnesses, with safe, effective outcomes. It has also been used on animals and plants. It has proved to be effective in treating them. You can’t create a placebo effect, as some sceptics argue, in children, animals, or plants. 12. FDA approved. Although the FDA advises individuals to consult a professional homeopathic physician, or therapist, for homeopathic treatment and to keep remedies out of the reach of children, the regulating body suggests that homeopathic remedies can be bought without a doctor’s prescription. No homeopathic remedy has, so far, been pulled out of the market by the FDA — unlike conventional drugs, which make such news — ‘withdrawn from the market’ — practically every day. SAFE, COMPLETE & HOLISTIC Homeopathy is a safe, complete, holistic form of complementary medicine. Homeopathic treatment: • Respects the body’s own healing processes • It avoids painful interventions and needless medication • Recognises that every individual is unique. Homeopathy sees disease, not as a foe, but as an opportunity for change and growth. In ancient systems of medicine it was believed that the body was selfregulating, and that disease occurred when this selfregulatory process became disrupted. In contemporary terms, we speak of feedback loops. When these feedback mechanisms get ‘jammed’ or disrupted, imbalances and dissonance occur. We call this, being ‘sick’ in mind-body. Homeopathic treatment aims to help our body return to dynamic [re]alignment. Homeopathy focuses not on the endpoint or pathological state, but on the vibrant, dynamic physiological processes which underlie and precede it. While acknowledging the existence of pathology as well as a need to understand it, homeopathic treatment focuses on the underlying processes. It employs a holistic avenue of therapy which engages such fundamental, or causal, events. Homeopathy looks at how you are ‘doing’ and ‘feeling’ — your life, your well-being, what you eat, your work environment, your relationships and communication with others, how you relax and play, your hobbies, what medications you’ve taken, how well your digestive system functions, and what chemicals, pollutants and allergens, you’ve been exposed to. The homeopathic treatment programme is engaged to reflect your individualised, or personal, requirements — not just your illness needs. Modern, or conventional, medicine talks about ‘prevention.’ Picture this — pap smears, cholesterol, blood pressure screening, and cancer testing, for example, are all tests for the early detection of illness, or disease, not their prevention. Homeopathy is concerned with the real prevention of disease. It pays attention to small, tiny details, or health issues, with which one can prevent large problems, much before they raise their unpleasant heads.

Dr Rajgopal Nidamboor is a board certified wellness physician and editor-publisher, H&Y

HOMEOPATHY & YOU | JULY 2014

HOM[E]O TRUTHS

SWEET PILLS FOR YOUR PETS’ WELLNESS Homeopathy offers a safe, effective and gentle way to treat your pets for injuries, allergies, digestive problems, joint and muscle pain, among other disorders. By KAVITA NADKARNI

omeopathy is a gentle, yet powerful form of therapy. It can treat dogs, cats, horses, donkeys, goats, cattle, pigs, sheep and sensitive species, such as birds and pets, among others, without the risk of sideeffects or adverse reactions. Homeopathy has been used in animals for 200 years. Many organic farmers across the world have relied upon it for decades as an effective and safe medicine for their animals. Moreover, nearly any problem that can be treated by conventional medicine can be treated by homeopathy. In fact, homeopathy is a natural, simple, inexpensive and nontoxic mode of keeping animals fit and healthy. Chronic diseases that respond well to homeopathy include skin allergies, ear infections, asthma, diabetes, inflammatory bowel disease, epilepsy [fits], thyroid disease and a host of other conditions. QUICK-FIX NO REAL FIX Our society has been ‘conditioned’ with quick-fix medicine that gives immediate results. However, this kind of treatment can generate a ‘rebound’ effect of symptoms, or undesirable side-effects. Complementary medicine, in particular homeopathy, can play an important role in successfully treating animals without side-effects. Homeopathy is a natural healing process; it assists the animal patient to regain health by stimulating the body’s natural forces of recovery. Conventional farmers have been making use of homeopathy for a long time for keeping their animals healthy. Many of them run modern intensive farms with veterinary homeopathy, without the use of antibiotics, hormones and other drugs. Among its other benefits, one of the most important aspects of homeopathy is it does not provoke ‘antibiotic resistance’ in bacterial populations. LIKE CURES LIKE Homeopathy is a system of medicine that is based on the principle of ‘like cures like.’ In other words, a substance taken in small amounts will cure the same symptoms it causes when taken in large amounts. Each treatment, like

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each animal, is unique because homeopathic remedies are selected on the basis of all aspects of the animal patient, in question, as well as the presenting symptoms. For the homeopathic vet, the methodology to prescribe appropriate medicine to the injured or sick animal is broadly similar to that used in human beings. More importantly, the difference between pharmaceutical drugs and homeopathic remedies is that drugs treat symptoms and homeopathy treats the cause of the symptoms. For example, when a vet has difficulty in treating a skin condition s/he usually starts to look at the skin in greater detail. A vet homeopath, on the other hand, will look at the patient as a whole, as well as the skin, knowing that the mental or emotional state of the animal can provide the vital clue, or cause, of the visible skin trouble and will, therefore, attempt to build that into the prescription. Homeopathic remedies are selected by the homeopathic vet according to their ability to stimulate the natural healing processes in the sick animal. EXPANDING RESEARCH A number of research articles have been published in Germany, Norway, Sweden, US, India and the UK. The focus of new research and research articles relates from the treatment of atopic dermatitis [eczema] in horses, in Finland, to the utilisation, effects and implications of homeopathy in health and productivity of dairy cows in India, Norway and Sweden. The latter also includes a European survey of dairy farmers reporting 76 per cent health improvement in their livestock. Research corroborates a significant ‘drop’ in the use of antibiotics in animals, especially cows. This was also the main reason why local farmers opt for homeopathy. The Swedish Animal Homeopathy Association, RKDH, is currently collecting 300 to 1,000 single cases of successful homeopathic treatment of animals, while an Israeli research project on homeopathic treatment of cats suffering from eosiniophilic granuloma, a skin disorder, is also underway. In Norway, a doctorate [PhD] in homeopathy was approved for the homeopathic treatment of dairy cows.

THE CONSULTATION The homeopathic consultation process can be a little more complex than the conventional veterinary consultation. It can sometimes take an hour, depending upon the complaint from which the animal patient suffers. It involves the diligent homeopathic vet discovering a great deal of information, not just from a clinical examination, but also from the owner. Likely questions posed to the owner of the animal may include details of background, lifestyle, environment, demeanour, character, likes, dislikes, fears, diet, household and family details and responses to various external influences. FACT-FILE In the largest-ever study of its type, the recently-published Clinical Outcomes Survey [2010], in the UK, has identified a number of clinical conditions in dogs and cats that may be promising targets for future research in veterinary homeopathy. 21 homeopathic veterinary surgeons, in the UK, recorded data over a 12-month period. They collected information from a total of 1,500 dogs and 400 cats. The most commonly recorded canine conditions were dermatitis [eczema], arthritis, pyoderma [skin infection accompanied by pus formation], colitis and fear. The most frequently and successfully treated feline conditions were dermatitis, renal failure, arthritis and hyperthyroidism, among other health concerns.

HOMEOPATHIC SPECTRUM Most acute, chronic and difficult-to-treat diseases respond well to homeopathic treatment, where conventional medication may have failed. Injuries and other illnesses also respond. Conditions that can be effectively treated with homeopathy are parvo [contagious viral disease affecting dogs], distemper [an infectious viral disease affecting dogs], lameness, ruptured ligament, diarrhoea, atopy [individual hypersensitivity], autoimmune disorders, periodic eye disorders [moon blindness, recurrent uveitis, or inflammation of the uvea, the middle layer of the eye between the retina and the white of the eye, recurrent conjunctivitis, corneal ulcer etc], head shaking, hip and elbow dysplasia [failure of the joints to develop normally], itching, laminitis [foot disease], bone cysts, pneumonia, meningitis, mastitis [inflammation of breast tissue], ringworm, epilepsy [fits], dermatitis [eczema], rodent ulcer, kidney and liver problems and cystitis [inflammation of the urinary bladder]. Homeopathy is far from being just placebo effect. It has ‘earned its spurs’ and its use is increasing rapidly, as people have realised its growing importance as ‘first-aid’, ‘or firstline’ medicine, and not just a last resort when nothing else works. Homeopathic remedies are also easy to administer to animals — they are available in the form of tiny, sweet pills, drops, and so on, and they are affordable.

A PET OWNER’S CASE IN POINT Spotty, our five-year-old Spaniel [dog with short legs, a silky coat, drooping ears] was a lovable, cheerful character. She suddenly became morose and depressed. It all, we felt, started soon after our new rabbit arrived. Spotty was all right with her new ‘associate;’ she did not harm her. However, she appeared ‘more and more depressed’ each day — so much so, she did not want to go out for a walk, which she loved so much before. A few days ago, my son, by mistake, dropped his cricket bat. It seemed to have landed perilously close to her paw. She didn’t even whinge; she just stood there looking gloomy. There was, obviously, no injury. For the most part of the day, Spotty occupies the corner of the hall. She just sits there, staring at the door. As a result, she seems to be putting on weight. The only silver-lining is she exudes happiness when she sees my grandson — she suddenly becomes cheerful and playful. When the mischievous little fellow goes to school, she looks like she misses him a lot — and, retreats to her glum self. She dreads heavy downpour during monsoons — especially when there is thunder and lightning.

When we took her to our veterinary homeopath, after a couple of weeks, and detailed her ‘emotional’ complaints, the good doc told us that Spotty “seemed to be cut off from herself.” He explained that living in the corridor when the door is open was ironical — rather, too strange for someone like Spotty. He also said that there was another irony — Spotty was playful the moment she was with my grandson. This was nothing short of mood shifts — from sadness to happiness and vice versa. Our vet said that Spotty would need the homeopathic remedy, Pulsatilla [windflower], which ‘corresponds’ to such emotional mood swings — like the windflower swaying to the ‘dictates’ of the wind. He gave us a bottle of the medicine. He suggested that we give Spotty 4-5 pills of the remedy, twice daily, 15-20 minutes before her feed, for 5-7 days. It took 3-4 weeks for Spotty to change for the better. It is now more than a year and Spotty is doing and behaving well — she has also regained her normal, happy and loving self she was before… that is, prior to the advent of our little rabbit. — J K, Spotty’s owner, Mumbai

Kavita Nadkarni is a writer and healthcare communications professional. She holds a degree in microbiology with a master’s in bio-informatics. She has managed editorial teams in media groups, specialising in healthcare and pharmaceutical publications. Her other areas of interest include complementary medicine and alternative healthcare. She is Assistant Editor, H&Y.

HOMEOPATHY & YOU | JULY 2014

GRIN AND BEAR IT

LAUGHTER,

THE BEST MEDICINE MEMORY TEST Three elderly men are at the doctor’s office for a memory test. The doctor asks the first man, “What is three times three?” “274,” was his reply. The doctor rolls his eyes and looks up at the ceiling, and asks the second man, “It’s your turn. What is three times three?” “Tuesday,” replies the second man. The doctor shakes his head sadly, and then asks the third man, “Okay, your turn. What’s three times three?” “Nine,” says the third man. “That’s great!” says the doctor. “How did you get that?” “Simple,” he says, “Just subtract 274 from Tuesday.” ENGLISH PATIENT An English guy was very ill and his son went to visit him in the hospital. Suddenly, the father began to breathe heavily and grabbed the pen and pad by the bed. With his last ounce of strength he wrote a note, dropped it, and died. The son was so overcome with grief that he didn’t remember slipping the note into his pocket. At the funeral, he reached into the pocket of his coat and immediately felt the note. He excitedly read it thinking it might be something he could recite during the service. It said: “You brainless moron, get off my oxygen pipe!” A BRIEF HISTORY OF MEDICINE 2000 BC: Here, eat this root. 1000 AD: That root is heathen. Say this prayer. 1850 AD: That prayer is superstition. Drink this potion. 1940 AD: That potion is snake oil. Swallow this pill. 1990 AD: That pill is ineffective. Take this antibiotic. 2014 AD: That antibiotic is artificial. Here, eat this root. RARE DISORDER A man sees a growth coming out from the centre of his forehead and consults with a specialist who tells him he has a rare genetic disorder and what’s happening to him is that a protrusion is growing out of his head. He

is told that his life is not in danger, but it’s inoperable due to its extensive root system. He is told to wear a hat and that it could be a whole lot worse. “How can you say that? Every morning when I comb my hair or shave, I’m going to see a bump sticking out of my forehead. Do you know what that’s gonna do to my ego?” “You won’t see anything,” the doctor says. “You have gone nuts in your eyes.” SHOT TO THE HEART Mildred was a 93-year-old woman who was particularly despondent over the recent death of her husband Earl. She decided that she would just kill herself and join him in death. Thinking that it would be best to get it over with quickly, she took out Earl’s old Army pistol and made the decision to shoot herself in the heart since it was so badly broken in the first place. Not wanting to miss the vital organ and become a vegetable and burden to someone, she called her doctor to inquire as to just exactly where the heart would be. “On a woman,” the doctor said, “your heart would be just below your left breast.” Later that night, Mildred was admitted to the hospital with a gunshot wound to her knee. SANTA CAUSE There was this case in the hospital’s intensive care ward where patients always died in the same bed, on Sunday morning at 11:00am, regardless of their medical condition. This puzzled the doctors and some even thought that it had something to do with the supernatural. Why death? So, the doctors decide to go down to the ward to investigate the cause of the incidents. The next Sunday morning, a few minutes before 11:00am, all doctors and nurses nervously wait outside the ward to see for themselves what the terrible phenomenon was all about. Some were holding wooden crosses, prayer books and other holy objects to ward off the evil. Just when the clock struck 11:00am, Santa Singh, the part-time Sunday housekeeper, entered the ward and unplugged the life support system, so that he could use the vacuum cleaner. [Culled and Collated from the ‘Net]

HOMEOPATHY & YOU | JUlY 2014

CELEBRITY SPEAK

ARTISTS’-JOURNOS’ ACCOLADES I try really hard to lead a healthy and, more importantly, natural lifestyle. I have used homeopathy for a wide range of health issues and it has never let me down. It is also great for general well-being, as remedies are very affordable and the effect they have on me is really noticeable.

important for people to have a choice when it comes to their well-being and I’m pleased I’ve discovered a natural way of keeping myself healthy.

Alice Barlow, actress and singer

Amal Fashanu, TV presenter, model, musician and charity campaigner

I’m totally accident-prone and after numerous bumps and bruises, my dad, a doctor, suggested I visit a homeopath for neck pains and migraines. I immediately noticed a huge difference and from that day on, I’ve relied on homeopathy for a whole range of health issues and for general well-being too. I’m passionate about 100 per cent natural health and well-being, and believe that it’s so valuable for people to take responsibility for their health, and to try a natural approach. I was first introduced to homeopathy 15 years ago when I was pregnant with my first child. I gave birth in a fabulous hospital where the midwives prescribed homeopathy during labour. Later, I used homeopathy to sort all manner of my kids’ illnesses.

Janey Lee Grace, singer, author, TV presenter and radio disc jockey

I’m relatively new to the world of homeopathy, but have already seen noticeable results. As an actress and singer I suffer from stage-fright and find homeopathic remedies really help to calm my nerves. It’s so

Charlotte Jackson, journalist and television presenter

It might seem odd that I chose to do a job which involves a lot of longhaul flights when I’m a very nervous flyer! I first discovered homeopathy when a friend suggested trying it to overcome my phobia of flying and I haven’t looked back since.

Stacey Dooley, TV presenter and investigative journalist

HOMEOPATHY & YOU | JULY 2014

LIVING WELL: LIFESTYLE

OIL IS WELL WHEN USED WELL It is a common fad these days to completely cut down on one’s oil or fat intake – to reduce weight, or lower cholesterol with the idea of preventing heart disease and other illnesses. The interesting part is: medical experts do not support such a view. They believe that being ‘oil-unfriendly’ could backfire on our health and wellness.

efore totally giving up any food, it is important to understand that what we eat should provide us with adequate amount of carbohydrates, fats, proteins, water [macronutrients], vitamins and minerals [micronutrients]. This is the reason why medical experts suggest that giving up fat totally is the worst thing you can do for your heart and overall health. Slashing fat is unhealthy, and it’s unlikely that you’ll stick to an eating plan that lacks the fat you require. We have to get fats from our diet, as our body needs monounsaturated fatty acids

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[MUFA] and polyunsaturated fatty acids [PUFA]. We can synthesise saturated fats [SFs]. Remember that fats are bad only when consumed in excess. A writer visited a cardiologist recently to inquire about the health of a family member and was surprised to see a plate of hot, inviting vada pav on his table. Having read and heard some specialists, including cardiologists, speak strongly about avoiding oil and high fat food for a healthy heart, the writer found it strange to see a heart specialist munching vada pav. She ventured to ask him

the obvious question. He simply laughed and said, “Everything in moderation is fine.” This prompted her to find out: is oil really bad, or is it the type of oil and the amount we consume is what we have to bother about while not giving up our favourite delicacies altogether? WHY OIL IS WELL? Let’s first understand why excess oil is not good for our health. The fact is only 20-30 per cent of our daily calories should come from fat, but we consume much more than that, thanks to the increased intake of fried food, or junk- and fat-food, in recent times. Excess fat is stored at unwanted places, gets deposited in the arterial walls and blocks blood flow. High blood pressure [hypertension], heart attack, stroke, unhealthy weight gain, diabetes, breast and ovarian cancer, and joint pain are some of the ill-effects associated with excessive fat consumption. Oils have approximately 120 calories/tablespoon. Excess oil, not burnt by physical activity, leads to unhealthy weight gain. Together with a sedentary lifestyle, this is a life-threatening ‘invite.’ However, if you totally avoid natural oil/oily items like nuts and fish, you’ll miss out on the MUFAs and PUFAs you need. So what’s the solution? “Balance it properly.” • Have a healthy, balanced diet and keep oils to the bare minimum • Try to have a stress-free life and develop a good mindset, do regular exercise, desist from active or passive smoking and alcohol. Also, there is no way we can afford to avoid oil completely at any stage of our lives. Lipids, besides giving us energy, are sources of fatty acids [their deficiency results in major health problems], and fatsoluble vitamins [A, D and K]. Plant-based fats increase good cholesterol [HDL] and decrease bad cholesterol. Oils consist of MUFA/PUFA/SF in varying proportions, but in general, their SF content is low. Animal-based fats, like butter and ghee, in contrast, are rich in SFs. Nuts, certain types of fish and veg sources like avocado and olives have a lot of oil content. OIL TYPES New healthy eating guidelines suggest the use of more than one type of oil in your daily diet. Some studies suggest that of all the available oils, coconut oil should be the ‘oil of choice’ for cooking, because it is nearly a completely saturated fat, which means it is much less susceptible to heat damage. Most commercial coconut oils are refined, bleached and deodorised [RBD] and contain chemicals used in processing. The best coconut oil to use is extra virgin coconut oil. Also, groundnut oil or peanut oil is a good combination of fats, and has good monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats and is low in bad saturated fats. It is a good all-purpose oil for cooking and works

particularly well for Asian foods that are prepared in the wok. Sunflower, safflower and rice-bran oils may also be used for regular cooking. Though some people say that olive oil is the healthiest oil one can have, the benefits certainly do not extend to cooking. Olive oil is primarily a monounsaturated fat, which means it has one double-bond in its fatty acid structure. Although monounsaturated fat is inherently more stable than polyunsaturated fat, the overabundance of oleic acid in olive oil creates an imbalance that has been associated with increased risk of breast cancer and heart disease. However, olive oil is a smart fat to include in your diet in the non-heated form, such as in a salad dressing. You can also use sesame, or canola oils, for salads and mild cooking. Walnut oil can give your dressings the ultimate finishing touch. This flavourful, nutty oil doesn’t stand up to heat, but it is fantastic in salad dressings, or as an accent for winter vegetables. It contains polyunsaturated fats, including alpha-linolenic acid [ALA], a hearthealthy, anti-inflammatory omega-3, and vitamin K constituent, which may strengthen bones. Note: Drizzle avocado oil over lean cooked fish to lend fullness, or whisk with citrus juice for a bright vinaigrette. Refrigerate avocado oil to keep its subtle avocado flavour fresh [bring it to room temperature before using]. STAY AWAY FROM REHEATING OIL It is important to remember that oils that are healthy at room temperature can become unhealthy when heated to certain temperatures. When oil is heated repeatedly, the proportion of harmful disintegrated parts increases. After deep-frying in it once/twice, use that oil for something else; don’t top it with fresh oil. Dietary-fat studies in UK, USA and Spain show polyunsaturated oils like soya, canola, sunflower and corn oils degrade easily to toxic compounds when heated. Prolonged consumption of any burnt oil leads to atherosclerosis [hardening of the arteries], inflammatory joint disease, cancer and birth defects. Trans-fat, found in hydrogenated vegetable oils and solid fats, is too much in re-used cooking oils and burgers and pizzas. Trans-fat is bad — so, just stay away from it. WHAT’S GOOD FOR KIDS Consumption of oil depends on the energy requirement of an individual. Energy requirements of kids depend on their age [0-18] and physical and mental development. There are invisible and visible sources of lipids in diets, but the benchmark is a visible addition of 30-50gm oils/day. As long as the plate and hands don’t require soap to clean up, one is doing well. Also, don’t fry all items at every meal. Oils providing monounsaturatespolyunsaturates-saturates in the ratio of 1.5:1:1 is best recommended.

HOMEOPATHY & YOU | JUlY 2014

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LIVING WELL: LIFESTYLE

PREVENTION IS BETTER THAN CURE Research suggests that consuming the right foods and using nutritional and herbal supplements to fortify our health is the best way to keep away from, or having to undergo, medical treatments of every kind. By RYAN A HARRISON

here’s a great deal of interest in ‘prevention’ lately. People are starting to clue into the fact that it’s easier to guard against illness and disease than it is to repair and heal once poor health has set in. Research suggests that consuming the right foods and using nutritional and herbal supplements to fortify our health is the best way to keep away from undergoing medical treatments of every kind. This article will explore the basics of how to use nutrition and herbal remedies as part of a healthy, preventive lifestyle. Having an accurate understanding of nutrition is vital to living a healthy lifestyle. Many people consume foods that are causing their bodies harm, all the while thinking that they are receiving good nutrition. Unfortunately, our culture has warped what ‘good nutrition’ is; fast and processed foods abound claiming to give the body what it needs to be strong and healthy and to preventing disease. So often this is exactly opposite of the truth. So, what is nutrition, precisely? A formal definition, as put forth by the Council on Food and Nutrition of the American Medical Association is, “The science of food, the nutrients and the substances therein, their action, interaction and balance in relation to health and disease, and the process by which the organism ingests, digests, absorbs, transports, utilises, and excretes food substances.” This can be distilled to mean that nutrition is the science of how the body uses food. Nutrition is life, because all living

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things require food and water to live. To live well, however, good food and good water are necessary. The truth of the matter is this: failure to eat and drink nutritious food and beverages can lead to several diseases. To understand nutrition, we also need to understand the concepts of energy and nutrients. Energy is what it takes for a person to do anything: think, speak, or act. Just about every bite of food gives energy, whether it provides nutrients or not. Nutrients are actually chemical substances that the body utilises to build, maintain and repair cells, tissues, etc. TYPES OF NUTRIENTS There are basically two kinds of nutrients, 1. macronutrients — protein, fat, carbohydrates,and water — and, 2. micronutrients — vitamins, minerals, etc. In general, people need many more grams of macronutrients than micronutrients. For example, the average man needs about 63gm of protein a day, but the same amount of vitamin D could be extremely bad. Some nutrients are called essential. This has a specific meaning in nutrition terminology. There are roughly two things that make an ‘essential nutrient’ essential: an essential nutrient cannot be made in the body. It has to be ingested. An essential nutrient is linked to a specific disease caused by its deficiency. For example, vitamin D deficiency causes rickets and osteomalacia. Essential nutrients include several well-known vitamins,

minerals, amino acids and, at least, two fatty acids: omega-3 and omega-6. Yet another group of interesting compounds found in food are phytochemicals — they are getting a lot of press lately. They are chemicals we get from plants. Some of them are well-known, such as vitamins and beta-carotene, which the body turns into vitamin A. Other phytochemicals are less well-known, but no less beneficial to the body. Scientists are discovering different phytochemicals and how helpful they are and can be when used in a preventative manner. Any study of prevention through nutrition and lifestyle will touch on phytochemicals, as they are some of the best, most natural and side-effect-free ‘foods’ to protect against heart disease, diabetes and cancer. Some of the most popular and powerful phytochemicals in wide-spread use today, include: • Quercetin found in apples, onions, berries, citrus fruits, and cruciferous vegetables; it helps to prevent cancer, heart disease, inflammation and respiratory diseases. • Resveratrol found in grapes, red wine, berries, tomatoes and other red, purple and dark fruits and berries; it protects against cancer and cardiovascular disease. • Anthocyanins found in fruits, vegetables, flowers and plants, whose colours range from red to blue are powerful anti-oxidants; they boost the immune system, fight infections and help ward off cancer. All these benefits — and more — are readily available to people who enjoy a healthful diet. They are beneficial compounds that occur naturally in foods and have enough therapeutic action to keep people from having to rely on prescription medications. Yet, it is strange, we so often overlook how powerful food can be. SYNERGY & ANTI-NUTRIENTS Two other terms to know when thinking of nutrition as part of a healthy, preventive lifestyle are synergy and anti-nutrients. When two or more things work together to accomplish something greater than the sum of their parts, synergy is at play. In nutrition, synergy is vital, as some nutrients simply require other nutrients to do any good at all. For example, without adequate vitamin D, the body cannot make use of calcium. What this means is that taking single vitamins and minerals is not nearly as effective as taking a broad-spectrum multivitamin-mineral supplement, which in turn is not nearly as effective as eating a wide variety of whole foods — unprocessed, natural foods, usually organically raised. Whole foods are the purest, most nutrient-rich substances available for human consumption. Some good examples of whole foods include, whole grains, beans, legumes, vegetables and fruits. All of these things, however, should be in their original state to be considered whole foods. Just as there are whole foods, which are great sources of nutrient-rich fuel for the body, so too are their substances known as ‘anti-nutrients,’ which — as the name suggests —

stop nutrients from being used by the body, or even promote their excretion. Most people can identify anti-nutrients, because they are the things that we already know aren’t all that good for us. Some examples of anti-nutrients include: pesticides, antibiotics, hormones, preservatives, chemicals, smoking, alcohol, caffeine, heavy metals and hydrogenated oils. The list is long. HERBS FOR LIFE It would be helpful to know some kitchen herbs that are particularly well-suited for following a preventative lifestyle. Unlike pharmaceutical drugs which are taken only when there is a problem, herbs can be taken as tonics and used primarily, like vitamin and nutritional supplements, to maintain good health. Certain herbs can be used over the long-term, providing several health benefits — to prevent disease and promote a strong immune system. • Turmeric. A spice common in curry powder. It contains a compound called curcumin, which, research acknowledges, has powerful antioxidant and cancerpreventing properties. It’s also an anti-inflammatory. • Rose hips. The ‘fruit’ of the dog rose and other wild roses. They can be mashed into a vitamin-rich pulp and consumed raw or cooked. They provide immune-boosting vitamin C. • Flaxseed. The seeds and pressed oil are both used medicinally. Flaxseeds provide digestive fibre; the oil contains large amounts of disease-preventing essential fatty acids. • Feverfew. A common plant whose flowers, stems and leaves are used medicinally to prevent migraine headaches. • Sorrel. A tart, refreshing green leafy herb. Sorrel strengthens immunity, cleanses the bloodstream and helps fight infections. • Rosemary. A pungent herb used in cooking, it is high in naturally-occurring anti-oxidants; it strengthens the circulatory system and combats fatigue and bloating. • Dandelion. A common flowering ‘weed,’ dandelion is an excellent liver, gallbladder and kidney supporting herb. CONCLUSION A preventative lifestyle is necessary in today’s toxic world. Without a healthy lifestyle, nutritious plant-based diet, and wellness-promoting herbs and supplements, people today are simply born into impending sickness. The body is an amazing thing and ‘wants’ to be healthy. It has regenerative and self-detoxification abilities, but it requires the right ‘fuel’ to allow our systems to function well. In a world where we breathe, ingest, and otherwise expose ourselves to countless known and unknown toxins, we must take at least a few simple steps to provide our bodies with such ‘fuel.’ This only means that anyone interested in a life of health and wellbeing needs to practice prevention and healthy lifestyle — everyday.

Ryan N Harrison is a US-based holistic health educator and consultant in private practice. He has taught holistic nutrition, therapeutic herbalism and natural health for several years — in traditional and online settings.

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POISE & BALANCE

ASCEND TO TRANSCEND Manipura is the third of the ascending chakras. The Manipura is the most important centre in the process of kundalini awakening and is widely mentioned in traditional scriptures. It is the centre of dynamism, energy, will power and accomplishment. The chakra also represents our ‘get up and go,’ our actions, our will, our vitality and our sense of personal power.

By PREETI MANDAWEWALA

he Manipura chakra is often compared with the power of the sun. This is because just as the sun continually radiates energy to the planets and is responsible for life on earth, Manipura in the same way radiates and distributes prana, or the life force, to the entire human framework. It is also responsible for various activities of the organs and other processes of life. The Sanskrit word, mani, means ‘gem’ and pura means ‘city.’ Therefore, the word Manipura can be translated directly as the ‘city of gems,’ a wholly negative force centre, which whirls anticlock wise. Without this chakra, each person would be lifeless and totally devoid of vitality. The Manipura chakra is also compared to a blazing fire, since it burns up and assimilates the energy in food in the same way that a fire burns up wood and releases inherent energy. The absorption of energy in the human structure takes place at different levels — at a grosser level by absorbing the nutrients in food for the upkeep

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of the physical body and at a subtler level absorbing the more subtle essence of food to refuel the pranic body. The Manipura is intimately related to this entire process at all levels. This centre is also widely called the nabhi chakra, the navel chakra. ASANAS In Manipura, our fire [spiritual heat] is stimulated. We ‘jump-start’ the battery of the body, the physical storehouse of energy, through strong standing poses like the warrior. The wilful aspect of the practice is also associated with the Manipura chakra. With the help of yogasanas, we build the battery in the belly and consciously direct that energy upward. In other words, according to hatha yoga, poses and movements that stimulate the solar plexus and build heat within the body, stimulate Manipura chakra. Surya namaskara is best for warming the body. Veerasana and dhanurasana done with vigorous breathing stimulate the solar plexus. Bhastrika

pranayama is another rapid breathing technique to build the fire energy within the body. DHANURASANA When the body takes the shape of a bow — it is called dhanush [bow, in Sanskrit] asana. Just like how the bow is strained during archery, the whole body is stretched during this asana posture. Technique 1. Lie flat on the stomach with the legs straight, feet together, the arms and hands besides the body 2. Bend the knees and bring the heels close to the buttocks 3. Clasp the hands around the ankles 4. Place the chin on the floor 5. This is the starting position 6. Tense the leg muscles and push the feet away from the body 7. Arch the back, lifting the thighs, chest and head together 8. Keep the arms straight. In the final position the head is tilted back and the abdomen supports the entire body on the floor 9. The only muscular contraction is in the legs; the back and arms remain relaxed 10.Hold the position for as long as is comfortable and slowly relax the leg muscles, lower the legs, chest and head to the starting position 11. Release the pose and relax in the prone position until your respiration returns to normal.

of the digestive, eliminative and reproductive organs and helps to relieve gastrointestinal disorders, chronic constipation and sluggishness of the liver. Dhanurasana is recommended in yoga therapy for the management of diabetes, colitis and menstrual disorders. The practice realigns the spinal column; the ligaments, muscles and nerves are given a good stretch, removing stiffness. The asana is useful for relieving various chest ailments, including asthma, and for freeing nervous energy in the cervical and thoracic sympathetic nerves. It also improves respiration. BHASTRIKA PRANAYAMA Technique 1. Sit in any comfortable position: padmasana [lotus pose] is the first choice. If you can manage for a longer time, opt for sukhasana [easy pose], with the head and spine straight and the hands resting on the knees in gyan mudra 2. Close the eyes and relax the whole body 3. Inhale deeply, expanding the abdomen and exhale with the forceful contraction of the abdominal muscles. Do not strain 4. Now, breathe in with the same force. During inhalation the diaphragm descends and the abdomen moves outwards 5. During exhalation the diaphragm moves upwards and the abdomen moves inward. Continue in this manner, counting 10 breaths. 6. At the end of 10 breaths perform shitakari pranayama [1. The teeth are clenched and the tongue is placed against the teeth. 2. Draw in air through the clenched teeth, filling from the abdomen up to the throat. This will produce the sound ‘ss.’ 3. Close the mouth; and, slowly exhale through the nose]. Duration. Start with three rounds of 10 breaths initially, followed by anulom vilom [alternate nostril breathing], shitali [the pranayama of ‘cooling breath’] or shitakari pranayama, after every round of 10 breaths. When accustomed to this style of breathing, gradually increase the pace [always keeping the breath rhythmical] and count breath up to 30 per round. Inhalation and exhalation phases must be equal.

Benefits. The entire alimentary canal is reconditioned by this asana. The liver, abdominal organs and muscles are massaged. The pancreas and adrenal glands are toned, balancing their secretions. The kidneys are massaged and the excess weight is reduced around the abdominal area. This leads to improved functioning

Benefits. This pranayama burns up toxins and alleviates diseases or doshas [kapha, phlegm; pitta, bile; and, vata, wind]. Because of the rapid exchange of air in the lungs, there is an increase in the exchange of oxygen and carbon dioxide into and out of the bloodstream. This stimulates the metabolic rate, producing heat and flushing out waste and toxins. It balances and strengthens the nervous system, inducing peace and tranquillity.

Dr Preeti Mandawewala, PhD, comes from a traditional Marwadi business family. She first discovered, as housewife, her love for yoga and completed Yogacharya certification followed by Yogavachaspati. A few years later, she learned all she could about chakra meditation and pursued her doctorate in the subject. She conducts regular workshops and has found chakra meditation to be therapeutically effective for acidity, spondylitis, diabetes, high blood pressure, migraine, thyroid disorders and tennis elbow, among other health issues.

HOMEOPATHY & YOU | JULY 2014

GOOD FOOD

YOUR COMPLETE SANDWICH SNACK Crispy lettuce, freshly sliced veggies and a cheesy corn patty — what more can you ask for in a burger!

By TARLA DALAL

Paneer and corn go well together in the patty, and coriander and chillies give them a well-deserved pep-up. Served with French fries, this paneer and corn burger is a complete meal in itself. • Preparation Time: 15mins • Cooking Time: 10mins • Makes 2 burgers Ingredients FOR THE PATTY • 1/2 cup crumbled cottage cheese • 1/2 cup boiled and coarsely crushed sweet corn kernels [makai ke dane] • 2 tbsp chopped coriander [dhania] • 1½ tbsp finely chopped green chillies • 2 tbsp bread crumbs • 1 tbsp cornflour • Salt to taste • 1/2 cup plain flour [maida] dissolved in 3/4 cup water • Bread crumbs for rolling • Oil for deep-frying. Other Ingredients • 2 burger buns • Butter for brushing • 2 tbsp mayonnaise • 2 iceberg lettuce • 4 tomatoes slices • 4 sliced onions

• S alt and freshly ground black peppercorns [kalimirch] to taste. For Serving French fries Method FOR THE PATTY • Combine all the ingredients in a bowl and mix well • Divide the mixture into 2 equal portions and shape each portion into a 75mm [3”] diameter round • Dip each patty in the maida-water mixture and roll in the bread crumbs till they are evenly coated from all sides • Heat the oil in a kadhai and deep-fry each patty till it turns golden brown in colour from both sides. Drain on absorbent paper and keep aside. How to Proceed • Cut each burger bun horizontally into two. Apply butter on both sides of each half of the burger bun and toast them lightly on a tava [griddle]. Keep aside • Place the lower half of the bun on a clean, dry surface and apply half tbsp of mayonnaise on each bun halves • Place an iceburg lettuce, 1 patty, 2 tomato slices and 2 onion slices and sprinkle a little salt and pepper over it • Cover with upper half of the bun and press it lightly • Repeat the steps to make 1 more burger • Serve immediately with French fries. [Courtesy: www.tarladalal.com]

Tarla Dalal was a noted Indian food writer, chef, best-selling cookbook author and host of cooking shows like Tarla Dalal Show and Cook It Up With Tarla Dalal.

HOMEOPATHY & YOU | JULY 2014

GOOD FOR YOU

BEAT FATIGUE WITH MAGNESIUM People presenting with chronic fatigue syndrome are constantly plagued by a feeling of deep, unrelenting exhaustion that sleep cannot remedy. This is where appropriate nutrient support can help.

antibodies, in the blood. Antibodies are proteins hronic fatigue goes by many names — made by the immune system to fight antigens, this includes chronic fatigue syndrome such as bacteria, viruses, and toxins]. In addition, [CFS] and chronic fatigue immune allergies, environmental illness, food sensitivities, dysfunction syndrome [CFIDS]. Part of the intestinal dysbiosis [microbial imbalancein the mystery of CFS stems from the fact that we digestive tract], parasitosis [infestation with still do not know what virus triggers or causes By Dr RICHARD diseases caused by parasites] and sick building the syndrome. While Epstein-Barr virus, or FIRSHEIN syndrome [SBS] should all be considered and, HHV-6, a member of the herpes family, has if necessary, tested for. For example, fatigue been implicated as a possible cause, there is and chest pain in young men may indicate asthma, or some speculation that CFS is triggered by what may be labelled as ‘stealth’ viruses, which may evade our immune a cardiac condition — if shortness of breath is present. Excessive coldness, and hair loss, likewise, may point to a system’s powerful surveillance. thyroid problem. Whatever the cause, one thing is certain: CFS is not Unfortunately, sufferers of CFS have long been just fatigue. While most of us have been exceedingly stigmatised by the medical community. The disorder is tired at some point in our lives, sleep eventually restores frequently confused with psychiatric conditions such our energy and vitality. For sufferers of CFS, however, as clinical depression. Questions as to whether CFS is, there is no such thing as a good night’s sleep. They are constantly plagued by a deep, unrelenting exhaustion that in fact, a psychiatric condition persist to this day, even though studies have shown that they are two separate sleep cannot remedy. They have the will and the desire to conditions. The Journal of Psychiatric Research evidences live a normal life, but their fatigue wears them down. The fatigue interferes with normal life, normal relationships that major depression and seasonal affective disorder and our normal day-to-day functioning. [SAD] are not the same illness as CFS. The Journal of CFS has been defined by the Centers for Disease Clinical Endocrinology and Metabolism has also found Control [CDC], US, as a set of major and minor criteria — clear differences between CFS and depression. Their one hallmark being debilitating fatigue lasting for at least findings pointed to a hypothalamic deficiency in CFS — a six months that reduces average daily activity to below finding not present in clinical depression. 50 per cent. One group of criteria for CFS suggests that I have found that there are numerous nutrients, hypotension, or abnormally low blood pressure, may be especially magnesium [and, zinc, among others] which I associated, along with CFS, in some people. recommend for CFS, depending on the patients’ specific Many patients suffering from CFS report that stress history and types of symptoms that they present with. worsens their condition. Clearly, stress is not just mental Magnesium allows our muscles to relax; it helps the dysfunction; it can dismantle the health of the whole individual to sleep well. Here’s why: when our bodies body. Patients have come to me hopelessly lethargic, become calcium-deficient, we can draw from the large wanting to go out and conquer life, but constantly lacking reserves contained in our bones, but when our bodies energy. Whether it be a high-pressure job in which they become magnesium-deficient, we must draw from the must consistently perform well, or even just getting the already low supply in our muscles. As our muscles lose simplest tasks accomplished, stress severely handicaps magnesium, calcium charges in to reinstate it, and, as a their abilities. consequence, our muscles grow uptight and cramped. There are a number of conditions that can mimic This can result in debilitating problems, especially the the symptoms of chronic fatigue, such as anaemia, aggravation of CFS symptoms. I also often put together hypothyroidism, candida [one of the most common a programme that includes diet, supplements, stress causes of fungal infections worldwide], lyme [an management and lifestyle practices. I may do lab testing infectious disease caused by Borrelia bacteria], HIV, and to find underlying food allergies or chemical allergies clinical depression. The disorders can be ruled out by that are causing the symptoms too. Since occasional specific tests — alkaline phosphatase [a blood test that environmental toxins may be playing a role in fatigue, lab indicates disorders of the liver, bones etc], cholesterol and testing for mercury or lead poisoning may be imperative. IgG [measures the level of certain immunoglobulins, or Dr Richard Firshein, Founder-Director of The Firshein Center for Comprehensive Medicine in New York City, is a leading innovator and authority in the field of preventative and nutritional medicine, integrating both Eastern and Western medical practices. He is Board Certified in Family Medicine and has served as professor of family medicine. An internationally recognised leader in the field of integrative medicine and healthy aging, a cancer researcher, prolific author and writer, Dr Firshein has written several groundbreaking books, including the bestselling Reversing Asthma, Your Asthma-Free Child, The Nutraceutical Revolution and, most recently, The Vitamin Prescription [For Life].

HOMEOPATHY & YOU | JULY 2014

FIGHTING FIT

THE MUSCLE SUTRA You cannot just go into the gym and do the same weights over and over again.

By KERRY DULIN

t was just the other day a gentleman asked me my view about the way people think about bodybuilding. My view is obvious — your thinking determines the way you approach it. An incorrect approach will be failure in the gym. Let us, for example, look at a middleaged computer programmer. This hypothetical individual knows nothing about weightlifting, but has seen it ‘done’ on TV and has the rather unchangeable idea that more time in the gym means more muscle, without exception. Where did this idea come from? Well, it’s quite simple. With no other source of information one must rely on what little information one has gathered. Watching TV and movies almost always displays muscular men performing endless reps in the gym to grow their muscles. Hence, the idea — endless reps grow muscles. There is ‘no wrapping up’ idea the brain could come to. Muscles look and feel bigger directly after a workout; therefore, muscles one thinks are actually growing in the gym. This is yet another misconception, but it is easy to see where it comes from. What is wrong with thinking this way? Let’s talk logic for a minute. The problem is really simplistic — because your arms look bigger while working out, they must be growing. Why is it fair to assume that people should realise this is also a misconception? Remember, your arm or any muscle always returns to normal size after a while. So, anyone who believes that muscles actually grow in the gym must also believe that the muscles shrink after a short period of time. This does not make a lot of sense. Much like everything else on earth, muscles are complicated. Holding your breath will trap blood in your head. If only someone could inform that muscles swell in the gym due to trapped blood and this blood eventually gets free. If only one knew that in the gym they are simply tearing their muscles apart for them to heal and become larger in the future, but only if they receive adequate amount of nutrients. There is no need to get into biology. We can reason our way through as to why muscles are created without getting overly technical. What people should do is take things back to the beginning and ask why does the body want muscle in the first place?

Muscle is a defence mechanism. Now, you may well ask: what does the body need protection from? Well, almost anything, but reword the sentence to ‘what would make the body think it needs to be protected?’ How about challenges that has surprised it? May be, stress, that the body does not think it can handle in its current state, if it were to face stress again. So, it decides to protect itself from it. Muscle is developed when the body meets stress; it isn’t easily capable of handling to begin with, so the next time it meets this stress it will be able to deal with it better. Now, if only everyone were to bring this logic to the gym, they might be more effective in their workouts. Progressive overload is the concept you must know to grow. By this train of thought, the best way to work the muscles would be by progressive overload, which I believe is the best method for training the muscles. You cannot just go into the gym and do the same weights over and over again. That is what the computer programmer is doing. He is grabbing the same weight off the rack week after week and he thinks his muscles will grow huge, because he finds it easier to lift that weight now than he did when he started. But, this is most likely due to the fact that the muscle at one point in time felt the weight was a threat and built a little muscle. But, now after encountering the same weight, it has adapted to it and no longer views it as a ‘threat;’ it, therefore, has no more reason to build any additional muscle. Now, the guy who goes into the gym and picks a weight just a little heavier than he did last time will make his muscles believe that there is a constantly progressing threat happening here. The body cannot stop growing muscle because the threat has not yet stopped, and the body in its current state obviously is not keeping up well enough with the threat. So, the body adapts, the body grows muscle and, may be, the next time it will meet the threat head on. To sum up, people will pick their workout routine based on guesswork, the word of a friend, or the attitude they have about the way muscle is built. It is important that you understand why the body builds muscle in order to ‘figure out’ the best way to accomplish that task.

Kerry Dulin, a world-renowned fitness guru, first got into professional bodybuilding at age 40. He won his first bodybuilding competition at 41. Now 54,with a physique that would put someone half his age to shame, Dulin has what he calls “a manageable programme,” 12 top trophies to show for his fitness endeavours and three health and fitness websites. He lives in the US.

HOMEOPATHY & YOU | JULY 2014

WHOLE & SOUL

CONFUSION: A BLESSING IN DISGUISE Confusion is a blessing. When we are confused, it shakes us up from our complacency, or self-imposed slumber, and we begin to ask questions — to awaken our purpose from deep within.

hen confusion confounds, it battle against exploitation and greed, represented perplexes us. This is the basis of the by Duryodhana and his brothers. To advance spiritually, like Arjuna, you have to Gita. Arjuna was in total delusion. discipline yourself. You should be like a doctor He became extremely confused; he thought who goes through years of discipline in order to his illusion was truth. The Gita begins when get his or her degree and expertise. The point is Arjuna tells Krsna why he will not fight and obvious — if you want to be successful in any he cannot fight. He had such good logic, such field of activity, you must be disciplined. The good scientific, philosophical and socialistic By RADHANATH same idea applies to spirituality. reasons. But, ultimately all of his reasoning SWAMi The general trend is: people don’t mind couldn’t really save him from distress, disciplining themselves in every other avenue because the nature of the world is certain things happen that we just don’t want to happen, but it’s of life, but when it comes to religion they assume everything is all right. We discipline our jobs, we going to happen anyway; this is the nature of our world. discipline our family life, but we don’t have time to Arjuna was confused; in his confusion he turned discipline spirituality. For spiritual pursuits, we always to god. “Now I am bewildered, I am confused, I don’t complain of not having enough time. know what is to be done and what is not to be done. All the problems in this world exist because of Please instruct me.” Confusion can shake us from our spiritual indiscipline. If we do not know how to control complacent comfort zone; this is often a time we grow, our senses, if we do not know how to control our mind, grow beyond from where we are. It is when confusion if we do not know how to say ‘no’ to things that we want confounds us do we seek answers. When we seek to do and are bad for us, and if we do not know how to answers with the help of saintly individuals, in spiritual say ‘yes’ to things we do not want to do but are good literature and in the names of god, we find real faith, for us, our motivation in practical life simply becomes real conviction and real realisation that forever liberate selfishness and greed. us from confusion. Confusion is, therefore, a blessing, It is only when one learns to control one’s desires, provided we respond with a purpose. one’s mind and one’s senses, can one grow spiritually. Arjuna was told to act like a surgeon. If an individual Developing control will cause the mind and senses to has a bad tumour and if it is not removed, the person become peaceful. The love of the soul can manifest in dies. So, surgery in one sense is violence. It amounts such a peaceful state. The inference is apparent — if to taking a knife and cutting a person open. Open heart one is serious about making spiritual advancement one surgery is also violent surgery; the ribcage is cut open. must discipline one’s time. In so doing, one will become But is the surgeon violent? Yes, the surgeon is violent, effective and efficient in every walk of life. but s/he actually helps the person. So, Arjuna was like a surgeon. He was fighting for dharma. He was waging a Radhanath Swami, a spiritual guide, is the author of the bestselling book, The Journey Home. To know more about his work on leadership and spirituality, visit www.tulsibooks.com. Website: www.radhanathswami.com

HOMEOPATHY & YOU | JULY 2014

CORPORATE WELLNESS

STAY HEALTHY TO BE WEALTHY We often wonder: what makes certain companies survive through generations, while others plummet in no time? Answer: survivors are passionate about organisational health, in comparison to others. It is also no secret that health brings wealth, not the other way round. The bottom line is: organisations should be healthy... to be wealthy.

By BADRINATH DURVASULA

s I was looking at the balance sheet of a company, only recently, a strange thought crept through. It is known that when a company is doing well, its balance sheet is referred to as a ‘healthy balance sheet.’ On the other hand, when a company is not doing well, it is referred to as ‘sick.’ From a limited perspective, organisations are assessed on the basis of their financial health. When comparisons are drawn on the ‘health’ status between organisations and human beings, interesting paradigms come into view. The financials, as reflected in the balance sheet of a company as ‘assets’ and ‘liabilities,’ create a health percept in the minds of investors, customers and suppliers. They give a clear picture of where the company is heading in times to come. Accordingly, they take a certain position in the company, on investing further, to supplying continuously, or placing orders. Put simply, if the tilt in balance is towards assets, a company is ‘healthy for its value’ and a multiplier. If it is inclined towards liability, it is ‘avoidable’ as it may tend to lose its value

HOMEOPATHY & YOU | JULY 2014

going further. There may be multiple reasons for such a tilt, or shift in tilts, but every tilt gives the cue, or trigger, to the management to correct the emerging scenario. In like manner, comparative attributes of corporate health and generic health could be visualised. Health is a plug-socket mix between physical health and mental health. One cannot exist without the other. Corporates need to demonstrate existing robustness with the future that is in store. It is here that comparisons become the guiding light, or beacon of direction, not just hope, for corporate well-being. Order booking versus lungs. The order book is the lifeline to a company’s existence. As we breathe in fresh air to our lungs, we get energised. Fresh orders, likewise, bring fresh energy to the corporate lifecycle. The more the orders, the better the standing of the company, to stay healthy. There will be times, when orders keep drying up, due to economic slowdown, or currency fluctuation, or other reasons. During such times, companies choke and collapse, if no proper build up accrues over a period

of time. Companies, thus, crave for fresh air, in the form of orders. Leading companies around the world typically stash the order book for 2-3 years — this provides the certainty of long-term positive outlook and the ability to withstand business cycles. Cash flow versus heart. When the heart pumps, blood gets circulated to every cell and makes our body vibrant. Similarly, every order infuses fresh blood into the company and the advance derived thereto gets rotated to various agents of product making. Cash flow is unique for organisational survival, for it minimises the dependence on loans. Companies tend to resort to increased borrowing, when orders dry up; but, increased borrowing or prolonged lacklustre cycles fracture organisational health. Cash flow keeps suppliers, service providers, creditors and customers happy — this is akin to our heart’s pumping mechanism which keeps every organ in the body in good functional health. Managements typically adopt a dynamic mix of strategies to run a healthy cash flow during all cycles. Do you not see discounted sales during the lean months in comparison to loaded sale during the ‘demand’ months? Cars, air-conditioners and consumable items are all examples of this matrix. The sole objective of such a strategy is to ensure that the financials are ‘healthy,’ because they translate to shareholder’s value and desired credit standing by suppliers. Board of directors versus CNS. Like the central nervous system [CNS] that plays a vital role in the functioning of various organs of our body, the Board of Directors of a company plays a pivotal role — to create a lasting impression. Our respect for organisations such as the Tatas, Birlas, IITs and IIMs come predominantly to mind, primarily because of the Boards that govern such eminent institutions. The Boards also take corrective action when things go wrong in the organisation. This was best illustrated with the recent case study on Infosys, the IT giant. Infosys went brusquely ‘out of tune’ during the last few years, losing out to its lesser known competitors. It could not bag important overseas orders. To stem the rot, the management of the company decided to bring back its renowned ex-chairman — N R Narayana Murthy. This, of course, led to initial euphoria, and also certain doubts, albeit one needs to see whether the introduction of ‘new’ structural changes to infuse time-tested business practices pay-off, or not, in the months ahead. Top managements, most notably of progressive companies, thus, constantly review their pitfalls. Quality versus kidney. Typical of the kidneys, which purify blood and flush out residues, quality systems undertake the task to filter inferior products passing into the hands of the customer. Filtration occurs at every stage of the production, well before the assembly line of the product. The key benchmark for a company to stay healthy, through decades, relates to its quality of products. When we talk of companies like Apple, or Sony,

it is quality that appears before any other attribute of the product. Product cycle versus blood pressure. Put simply, companies should bite what they can chew. Every company has a typical cycle time for its products necessitating scheduling. There are limitations in the delivery of products due to supply, or manufacturing constraints. If orders taken are beyond their capacity to deliver, companies develop high blood pressure in their system, resulting in cardiac failure, or business collapse. If deliveries do not happen in time, clients ‘haul over the coals,’ or punish. On the contrary, if they deliver on time, a regulated blood pressure will prevail on the system. There are instances when some companies build a huge order book, but fail, or fall short, on delivery, resulting in their doom. Fitness versus diet. Diet refers to the right mix of nutritional intake to stay healthy. Organisations practice as much as human beings. Like every season brings in a different fitness and diet regime, companies change business models with the changing seasons. Airconditioners are sold cheap in winter, while their price goes up in summer. TVs are cheaper during the cricket season, even when they stay flat otherwise. A proper demand and supply analysis holds the key to a healthy outlook for companies. The inference is obvious. Good, effective organisations constantly re-invent themselves to set the best practices, improve the product mix and stay fit to thrive, not by the day, but for years and decades to come. This is one reason why one respects Toyota, Unilever, Tatas, Mitsubishi, and Ford, to name a few — because they have survived and flourished through the ages. What makes them also tick is their positive affirmation: stay healthy in business to play hard and long with your competitors.

Badrinath Durvasula is Vice-President and Head, Legal and Strategy, Larsen & Toubro Ltd, Mumbai. He holds master’s degrees in nuclear physics, law and management.

HOMEOPATHY & YOU | JULY 2014

All is WELL

MISSION POSSIBLE A team is primarily a combination of a highly diverse group of people. Poor communication, and lack of focus, therefore, means no team.

By NELRESSA StALLINgS

team comprises of members with different backgrounds, skills and abilities. Only then would a team be able to pool optimal resources to be effective. In other words, a team with no diversity is not likely to work in an innovative manner. According to Mark Sanborn, an expert on teams — whose significant work forms the fulcrum of this article— a team must have a shared sense of mission. Because, even when we talk about a temporary work improvement team, or branch, all members ought to share a sense of undertaking the team advocates — as one entity. A team should have clear focus and identified goals. Besides this, it must be able to assess its success, and know what it’s trying to accomplish. This is because focus is nothing but directing your energy on a fixed task, or action. Here’s how you can take your focus to accomplish a goal, or go to the next level — • Visualise your team’s goal and your role in it as much as possible • Post reminders on your wall, refrigerator and computer desktop • Send yourself reminders using an online calendar or service • Tell as many people as possible about it, and post your progress • Have a time each day to work on the goal, with a reminder in your schedule each day • Maintain your focus on your goal, and you’ve won half of the battle in achieving it. Now, the big question: how does a team differ from a work group? Here goes — Acceptance. Work groups tend to tolerate each other, while teams have a leaning to enjoy each other. Differences in teams are welcome and encouraged; in work groups, differences and disagreements are suppressed.

Competitiveness. Work groups tend to compete inwardly with members competing against each other for favour, recognition etc., High-performing teams vie, but with those outside of the organisation. Focus. Work groups tend to be task-oriented and characterised by members who follow their own personal agenda. High-performing teams are goal-oriented; they do not pull each other in different directions. Risk. Work groups are likely to avoid risk and maintain status quo. High-performing teams are evidenced to accept risk. Style. Work groups tend to be autocratic and hierarchical in nature. Teams, on the other hand, are inclined to be participative and self-steering within the goals of the team. What also needs to be emphasised is the leader’s role. In simple terms, the leader or manager should play a key role in setting the appropriate environment for the development of teams. It may also be mentioned that many leaders, or managers, are quite often inclined to stimulate the development of high-performance teams, but do not see themselves as active players in the process. Sometimes, this comes from the incorrect notion that a team should be self-contained and owned by team members. Yes, teams should be owned by its members. Also, if a leader wants to encourage team functioning, it is most likely that s/he, as a leader, needs to change. If they don’t, any team approach is destined to malfunction. So, there we are. When you look at teams in other contexts, you will quickly realise that leadership determines success. A cricket team, for example, has a coach; a movie unit has a director. Agreed that these teams don’t spontaneously develop without effective leadership. However, they can develop and grow with the help and guidance of a leader whose job is not to control, but to teach, encourage, and organise, when necessary.

Nelressa Stallings, a copywriter-PR consultant, writer, teacher and ESL instructor, is a qualified life-coach. An Indophile, Stallings has worked and consulted at top companies like HarperCollins, Pentagram Design, Exceed Communications, Scholastic, and DirecTV, aside from Dow Jones. A resident of New Jersey, Stallings is currently on a teaching assignment in the Middle East

HOMEOPATHY & YOU | JULY 2014

MIND MATTERS

PRACTICAL PARENTING Being a parent was a role you selected, out of choice. This role is not like a role on the stage, a little drama, where a role is played and forgotten as the play ends. It’s a lifetime role, a contract you sign when you see that little bundle of joy in your arms for the first time. It begins with the birth of your child, but never ends.

suggestions. From 19-99, parents play the role of t is a commitment, so sacred, enjoyable, and consultants and respond to requests. yet so difficult. For me, be it today or years Our entire lifespan is covered by this ago, my kids are still my little babies. Feelings relationship. Whatever the age, the parent-child from the heart may not change but attitude from bonding is forever, so remember your children the mind has to change at every stage. The truth would want you as much as you would want is not how you feel, but how it is. them — sometimes with the need to depend, Parents remain parents forever and children sometimes to just share feelings. remain children forever, depending emotionally By AMITA QUENIM We will take a few tips from parents who on each other and strengthening the bond of managed to play their role successfully, following relationship. their own simple secrets of parenting. Children have different emotional needs at each stage in Tina was six-years-old and her brother Raj was eight. life and this is connected to their age. Your attitude towards They both went to the same school. The school demanded your child, at 3 and 13 cannot be the same. the use of computers for home study. They had one Your experience may tell you about the changes that take computer at home and forever faced the ‘joint’ problem of place in children as they grow up. It is equally important using the computer. Mom arranged it in such a manner that to remember that you too are growing up as they are. when Tina went for her tennis practice, Raj would use the A birthday celebration is a pleasant reminder of your computer. This was the way she helped her children to sort child growing up by a year and you growing up by a year out the problem. All mom did was that she managed and as parent as well. Physically, mentally and emotionally arranged things for them. From the age of 5-8, parents need time plays a role. The changes are unavoidable, but it is to play the role of a manager and arranger of things. important to acknowledge and look at the strengths you As long as children are in school, you cannot do away gain and enjoy from them. with responsibilities. As they proceed ahead in their A common feeling which children experience is the academics, the need for help increases. They are exposed stress between dependency on their parents and the need to so much more in academics and the world around them. to break away. Parents too experience the stress of such They have to turn to someone for guidance and the best mixed feelings. You want them to be independent, yet find way out is, they can turn to you. it hard to let go. At this stage, parents have to walk the fine Age 14-19 is the great adolescent period. Normally the line between giving children enough independence and time when children are breaking away from parents — to protecting them from any immature lapse in judgment. take charge of their own life. A time, when they need to Let us reflect on a few questions which may lead to start believing in themselves. They build up an identity confusion in your mind. Let us try to resolve them. “Am I a of their own and like to take pride in their actions and perfect parent? In spite of doing so much for my child, she achievements. No one likes to be dictated at this age; they never listens to me? How can I ever cope with my child’s connect with parents in a matured manner and expect demands? Why is my child not as clever as the neighbour’s to be treated as adults. They count on you for advice and child? Is it wrong to be a working mom? How can I deal suggestions, but expect you to be realistic in your approach, with my grown up son? It’s impossible when he argues.” Too many questions clutter your mind and you sometimes because it is an important stage in their life. They prefer straight talk and right advice, at the same time they expect doubt your own capacity as an able parent. The fault is you to be open for discussion on the topic and interact with not yours; it’s just the demand of the changing times. As them openly. From age 14-19, moms and dads play the role parents you play a certain role at a certain age for the child. of advisors and offer suggestions. Your emotional connect and expectation from your children Age 19-99 is a period of bonding and love between depends on a number of factors. However, certain things parents and children which lasts forever. This is the time are common for all age groups. parents can sit back and enjoy with ease the bonding that As studies show, we should divide age groups from 0-5, has been created over the years. Parents now play the role 5-8, 8-14, 14-19 and 19-99. From 0-5, parents are directors of consultants and respond to request. and control all. From 5-8, parents need to play the role of This is my little secret for all parents to enjoy being a manager and arrange things. From 8-14, parents have parents. Trust me you will enjoy it as you hold the secret in to play the role of a guide, coach and show how. From your heart and work with your mind. 14-19, moms and dads play the role of advisors and offer Amita Quenim is a clinical psychologist for over 33 years. A teacher, principal, first member of the jury for Children’s Court appointed by the government of Goa, a writer, columnist, member of Manipal Health and Education, and Director, Mandovi Hotels Pvt Limited. She lives in Goa.

HOMEOPATHY & YOU | JULY 2014

Funny bone

LOVE, BOLLYWOOD STYLE It is always SoS [same old stuff] of an over-forty ’college boy’ serenading his lady-love, by running around every tree in sight — yet, love in Hindi films ticks like no other. Here’s why...

mouths a silly one-liner like, ‘Aap bade woh hain.’ he entire world loves a lover, all right. But, most Hindi film viewers must, by In the Gulf, where Hindi movies are popular, the now, be heartily sick of those mooning subtitles promptly translate it to “You are a big ’star-crossed’ pairs who drown sorrows in that.” songs. Or, work off ardours by running around Somehow our hero manages to be powertrees, evoking yawns and boredom, rather than personified without being biological, unless the empathy over the rock-strewn path of true love director yells, “Lady willing, rain please,” and you as projected in a plethora of absurd yards of have the studio rain drenching the lady’s ‘wasteBy RUBY celluloid flooding Hindi cinema’s commercial LILAOWALA line ‘ and wall-to-wall hips, while she vamps all flicks. over the hero under the guise of a song. With all Take teenage romance for starters. It is such a sweet, the drenching, they never seem to catch a cold [move sentimental theme with tremendous potential. Even over Vicks!]. At the most, the heroine becomes pregnant Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet is a teenage romance. after the rain sequence. As for kissing, which is the most natural thing between two people in love, it is dragged But in our phillums, coming-of-age love stories are as to ludicrous lengths, unless the hero is a serial-kisser, predictable as a debtor’s bank-statement — with most like Emran Hashmi, who reportedly holds a PhD in films short on assets, balance and credits. At times, the ‘kissology.’ real, young calf-lovers have mature faces that look as When our hero and heroine fall in love, flowers bloom, though they’re already tired of life, albeit they should a grand piano starts playing or thousands of matkas look fresh like Paris in spring, while they coo to each other like two pigeons in Trafalgar Square. accompanied by a hundred extras doing jhatkas appear However, truth is stranger than fiction. This certainly on a deserted seashore. Hearts stop, flutter, pound and seems to be the case where love-scenes in our films heave without any coronary ill-effects. Stars dazzle, the occur. They’re not just stranger than fiction either; they studio moon shines brightly, just as the heroine’s eyes are decidedly more bizarre than almost anything else sparkle like laser beams ready to scorch a hole through you’ve ever seen. It’s always SOS [same old stuff] of the screen, and the romantic scene goes way beyond an over-forty ’college boy’ serenading his lady-love by the boundaries of mere time, space or logic. Instead of running around every tree in sight, till viewers become mouthing the three little words, the hero has a verbal cock-eyed. The lady, hiding under an inch of makehaemorrhage and, if you are unlucky, he bursts into up and half a kilo of talcum powder, plays hard to get another song. Yet, when he touches the heroine’s hand, saying, “Shut-up, you phool,” when she becomes tired she gives an orgasmic sigh, raves and rants in delirium, burning in love, as though she is sitting on the equator. of running around and lowers her thicker-than-venetian A point proved. blind eyelashes to show her consent. At times, she Ruby Lilaowala, a former special correspondent for Gulf Times and an ex-censorship officer for the government of Qatar, is a writer, columnist, life-coach and counsellor. She lives in Mumbai.

HOMEOPATHY & YOU | JULY 2014

THE WAY WE WERE & ARE

‘MANTROPATHY’ The chanting of mantras not only helps us to feel at ease, or energised, it can also help us cope with illness.

t has been proven scientifically that different sounds have different effects on the human mind. For some people, a gentle sound of the wind rustling through leaves soothes their nerves, while for many others soft music enchants their heart. On the contrary, thunder may cause awe and fear. Similarly, mantras. In simple terms, mantra, a Sanskrit word, is a tool of the mind, divine speech, language of human spiritual physiology, and so on. It is also the extension of energy — a therapeutic ‘device’ for problems that we face in life. Several spiritual gurus believe that mantras give us the power to cure diseases; ward off evil; connect with god; worship a deity for exalted communion and attain a blissful state and liberation. SIGNIFICANCE & BELIEF Mantras are in the form of praise and appeal to deities. We recite mantras to let us connect with a supernatural power we believe in. By constant repetition of the mantra, the human being imbibes certain virtues and power of the deity that presides over the mantra. For example, Hindus believe that the repetition of the Surya mantra bestows health, long life, vigour, vitality and brilliance. It is believed to remove diseases of the body and the eye. Similarly, Saraswati mantra [Om Sri Saraswatyai Namah] bestows wisdom and intelligence. Also, repetition of Om Sri Mahalakshmyai Namah, a mantra in praise of the goddess of wealth will confer wealth and remove poverty. The Ganesha mantra is believed to remove obstacles in any undertaking, thereby bestowing wisdom, psychic powers and wealth. The Mahamrityunjaya mantra has the power to save us from accidents, incurable diseases and calamities, and bestow long life and immortality. MANTRAS ARE FOR ALL One important thing to remember is that it is not that mantra meditation would appeal only to those who believe in god. It is just as useful to those that don’t, because a mantra takes you to the inner precincts of your soul — whether you believe in the divine or not. Meditation and yoga are non-religious practices. They are paths that lead you to a heightened sense of consciousness. Now that we know the traditional significance of mantras, let us find out the science behind the healing effects of mantras. HEALING MANTRAS As we all know the science of sound in mantras is used

for increasing awareness and expanding emotional states of our personality. This, in some ways, aligns with recent findings in the neurosciences. Mantras can be used to treat anxiety, tension and many other ailments. The Brahmvarchas Shodh Sansthan, a research centre for integration of science and spirituality in Shantikunj, Haridwar, carries out extensive experiments on mantra shakti. The result of such experiments is used to testify that mantras can be used scientifically for healing. According to some scholars, mantra chanting is mantra yoga. The simple yet powerful mantra, Om or Aum harmonises our physical forces with the emotional and intellectual forces. When this happens, you begin to feel like a complete being — mentally and physically. When you vocalise a single syllable, such as Om, you will be able to think of only that sound, nothing else. You soon merge yourself in the sound and can, at will, extinguish unwanted mental clutter. The chanting of Om in transcendental meditation has now received widespread recognition. There is evidence supporting mantras as a calming tool. Scores of people, from different walks of life, have reported their experience on how the chanting of Mahamrityunjaya mantra, for just 15 minutes, every morning, has benefited them, physically, emotionally and spiritually. According to Thomas Ashley-Farrand, a noted Indophile and scholar, who practiced mantra-based spiritual disciplines for several years and taught Sanskrit mantras and meditation at Chaffee College, US, simple chants are packed with energy. He observed that it’s one reason why mantras, which are specially designed to generate power sound waves, have it in them to promote healing, insight, creativity, and spiritual growth. He contended that mantras not only cure specific ailments, but they also helped one to find inner peace — being one with the cosmos. In his easy-to-use and practice book, Healing Mantras, which may, perhaps, be one of the best-ever introductions to unlocking the power of every Sanskrit word, Ashley-Farrand presents over fifty mantras. In the process, he also unravels every expression, and explains its appropriate application, including pronunciation in an easy-to-follow manner. A sound body and calm mind is essential for the one who chants mantras — so also focus and strong willpower on the desired objective to achieve your goal. Practice makes it perfect; it also enables you to free yourself from your worries and achieve stability in your mind and body.

HOMEOPATHY & YOU | JULY 2014

SELF-HELP

OF CRICKET & LIFE SUCCESS Cricket is not just a game. There is a lot that one can draw from the sport to get ahead at work and in business as well.

ricket is evidenced to help players develop their personality and also leadership skills. One important thing that cricket teaches us all is man-management — it is more than something that you are confronted with on a day-to-day basis in academics, career and business life. There are also parallels that could be drawn between captaincy in cricket and business leadership. First and foremost, if you are appointed a cricket captain, or the head of a business unit, you are reasonably wellexperienced to know the dos and don’ts. It’s also evident that you are supposed to lead your team towards victory, whether it’s your cricket team, or whether it is your business unit. When you refer to the word, lead, it means drawing a distinction between merely heading an outfit and leading

HOMEOPATHY & YOU | JULY 2014

it. Leading is when you take everybody along with you. THE CHALLENGE The biggest challenge in leadership is that you take on the responsibility for the entire team, no matter the result — win or lose. The important thing is — you should be able to take them both in the right spirit. To highlight a notable irony. When things go well, it’s all fine, but when the going’s bad, you should be mentally strong to take it. This is where your leadership qualities come to the fore, both on the cricket field and in career or business. For example, in a cricket match, somebody with a little knowledge of cricket will know what kind of a field to set. You sure, as a professional, know more than a good deal of basic tactics. Even in business, one knows the basic

SELF-HELP

tenets of running a business or an industry. Yet, with all situations, or conditions, going in your favour you are not able to get the desired output or result, sometimes, and this is where a leader or a captain comes in — his/her job is to motivate. You should lead by example and take up the responsibility and urge your team — that they have it in them to do it. You should also have the ability to get the best out of your team, and this applies equally well to corporate life. SIXTH SENSE Call it your sixth sense; but, this is what comes into the picture when you are trying to get the best out of individual cricketers and/or your fellow associates or colleagues. There are some players who you may have to exhort; some who you may have to coax, and some who you must pat on the back, or others who you have to deal with firmly. You have to understand the individual’s psychology and work on their psyche. Cricket, beyond a point, is purely a mental game. You should be able to play on a particular player’s psyche and get the best out of him/her. You should make everybody feel important. You cannot depend on two or three ‘big guns’ in the team and expect to carry all the players and the game with you. This applies to career and corporate life. The idea is to give everybody the confidence. You need to be innovative as well when the situation demands, or when nothing else is working. This idea may click, and when it does, you become a good, nay great,

captain or leader. If it doesn’t, be prepared to take the brickbats: “What a stupid idea that was!” The important thing, whatever the outcome is — you must be willing to take planned risks and be responsible for your decisions, if not action. For instance, if you make a bowling change, or plan a new strategy, and the bowler gets a wicket, you will be praised for your move. But, if you get hit, you will be ‘run down.’ Similarly, in career or business, when you make a decision that pays off, everyone will talk about your foresight and commend you; but, if your move fails, and your unit does not do well, you will have to face the music. Most of the decisions you take, if not make, are resultoriented. And, you should be prepared to face it, whatever the outcome. However, it pays to take calculated moves and risks. But, then you also need to play on somebody else’s strength, and you know that s/he can do well. You’ve got to motivate him/her. Things will work for you and the company. The point also is you need to repose faith in everyone you choose to fill the batting order, or execute a given job, at the workplace. This will work in that person’s mind, too. S/he will know that s/he cannot afford to let you down. S/he will think that this is an opportunity for one to become a hero, and s/he will try one’s best to become one. But, if s/he fails you should be prepared to support, not let that person down. The inference? Doing well, along with leadership — in cricket, or business — is all about inventive, groundbreaking moves. — Adapted & redacted from former India Test cricket captain Kris Srikkanth’s article,“What Cricket Teaches.” ©The Hindu Business Line.

HOMEOPATHY & YOU | JULY 2014

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FITNESS EQUIPMENT

MORE THAN JUST LEG WORK

The leg press machine not only provides several health benefits, it may also be used as an alternative to traditional squat.

he leg press is a weight training exercise in which one has to push weight or resistance away, using the legs. It enables us to evaluate our overall lower body strength — from the knee joint to the hip. FOUR MUSCLES AT A TIME The leg press machine has certain distinct advantages over other exercises and machines like it, especially for muscle targeting purposes. One major benefit of the leg press is that it helps you build strength in four muscles at a time, including the hamstrings, gluteal, quadriceps and calf muscles. Since the workout is balanced between four muscles, each muscle gains strength evenly when you use the machine. For example, with the regular use of the machine, you won’t end up with oversized hamstrings and tiny calf muscles. The leg press machine also offers several safety benefits over using free weights. You are less likely to crush your fingers between the weight plates when using the machine. Many models have locking mechanisms, so that the weight plates don’t crash down even if your legs become overtired. BALANCED PROPOSITION If you are looking at muscular and large physique [especially mass in the legs], the leg press is the ideal machine for you. It does not just add strength, but it also bulks up the muscles in your legs. This is ideal if you have a large upper body — you won’t look off-balance. You can also work on building mass by eliminating the pause between each repetition when using the machine. TYPES OF LEG PRESS The diagonal or vertical ‘sled’ type leg press. In this type of machine, weight disks [plates] are attached directly to the sled, which is mounted on rails. The user sits below the sled and pushes it upward with their feet. The machines normally include adjustable safety

brackets that prevent the user from being trapped under the weight. The ‘cable’ type leg press, or ‘seated leg press.’ This type of machine is commonly found in gyms. The user sits upright and pushes forward with their feet onto a plate which is attached to the weight stack by way of a long steel cable. BACK PROBLEM? NO WORRY Squats strengthen your muscles the same way the leg press does. However, when you use a leg press machine, your back is supported as long as you are performing the exercise properly. On the machine, you sit or lie against a padded cushion. This means you get the same strength training, while using the machine, as you would do squats, but without the risk of hurting your back. PROTECTION AGAINST INJURY Aging may cause several health conditions like arthritis and loss in muscle mass. Using a leg press builds muscles in the legs — this can protect your bones and cartilage, while reducing your risk of arthritis and other degenerative conditions. The stronger your body and legs are, the better you will be able to protect yourself against injury too. FACT-FILE • The leg press comes with distinct benefits. However, when it is not used properly, you risk severe injury. It is a good idea to ask for assistance with the machine the first time you use it • Check with your doctor before you start the exercise programme • Do not fully extend your legs when exercising on leg press. You should not let your thighs bend deeper than 90 degrees. Bending your legs too much increases the risk of a knee injury. It can also hurt your back.

HOMEOPATHY & YOU | JULY 2014

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Top OF MIND

GO FOR ‘DIET’ TV! While TV viewing connects our children to society, it can promote aggressiveness and obesity too. So, the big question: what to do? Simple. Regulate your kids’ TV viewing time.

e all know that TV, the eternal baby-sitter, or surrogate mother, is magic ‘potion.’ It also has a huge dark side. TV has not only battered our values, it has also marginalised old-fashioned conversation, at home, and outside of it, including good habits like reading, or watching a stage-play. Our families have not only retreated into a shell to watch separate programmes, they have also gone into voluntary isolation — a cultural ‘apartheid.’ Put simply, TV takes up so much of our time. It has, in so doing, left a whole generation weary-eyed and impatient. Yet, not many people complain. There’s a monumental treasure trove of programmes on TV, all right, given the total volume of ‘pro-gaming,’ and sitting in front of this electronic ‘fireside.’ There is substantial evidence to support the idea that TV viewing can connect our children to society. It can, as studies suggest, promote aggressiveness and obesity, at the same time. So, the big question: what to do? Simple. Regulate your kids’ TV viewing. It ain’t as easy as it sounds, though, but you need not be a rocket scientist, or psychologist, to discover your child’s personal learning style, or interests. The best way to do this is by giving your child the opportunity to learn what s/he does best and slowly ‘wean’ them away from too much TV viewing. Easier said than done, perhaps. PROS AND CONS Look at this. TV viewing in excess is harmful for your kids. On the other hand, TV viewing may also be advantageous. The advantage is — TV and computer games connect children to the community. To deprive your child of access to what other children are engaged in, puts him or her in a ‘tight’ spot when s/he goes to school, or plays with friends. Or, when friends discuss or talk about TV shows, or computer games, s/he does not know. So, what is the remedy, nay solution? Behavioural analysts suggest that you restrict rather than abolish your children’s TV watching and video game play, or time. One hour a day during the week, and not more than 2-3 hours on weekends, may be okay for your child’s TV watching, or viewing. In addition, you should, they suggest, get rid of nasty, or violent, programmes from your child’s TV schedule, or computer games, to the extent possible. When your child is not willing [no kid is], you should try to explain your feelings, while listening to your child’s reasons for preferring a given type of programme, before you wean them from it. When you speak to your

child in a friendly manner, you will be able to promote a strong emotional bond aimed at understanding your child’s likes and dislikes. This may also indirectly help your child to work on a new opportunity — to learn what s/he does best. Including soft, good music in your child’s daily routine would be just as useful — especially if your child shows symptoms of hyperactively-sensitive behaviour. Besides, you should, in consultation with your paediatrician, remove or help avoid allergens from your child’s diet. This is because what your child may be eating, be it junk- or fast-food, or whatever, may be affecting his health and emotions too. ‘VIEW-TV’ MANAGEMENT • Enhance your child’s self-esteem • Find your child’s best times of alertness • Provide a variety of stimulating learning activities — like reading, drawing, and painting • Teach your child positive aspirations • Provide positive role models — great men and women from history, or contemporary life, industry leaders, cricketers and so on • Provide hands-on activities — like learning a new musical instrument, or language, or crossword puzzle, sudoku and so on • Help your child with organisational skills. Also, include the following — • Help your child to appreciate the value of personal effort • Teach your child focusing techniques: simple breathing exercises, yoga or meditation Give your child really good choices; and, also establish consistent rules, routines and transitions • Hold family meetings; hold a positive image of your child; never hurt their self-esteem • Always reward your child, with a box of chocolates, or anything they love, after they have finished their job, or chore — be it studies or sport. Not before. Now, the most important thing. If only you could achieve such a ‘balance,’ half of the battle is won. For your good, and your child’s good. This will, in due course of time, become a channel for promoting good behaviour and useful skills, rather than prescription conventional medicine pills. As Johann Wolfgang von Goethe said, “Treat people as if they were what they ought to be, and you will help them to become what they are capable of being.” The aphorism applies equally well to your kids, their sensitivities, sensibilities, interests and also their TV viewing. HOMEOPATHY & YOU | JULY 2014

HOME[O]PATHY

TOMATO: THE QUINTESSENTIAL ANTIOXIDANT Tomato is a ‘functional food,’ a food that goes beyond basic nutrition. It prevents illness or disease, thanks to the presence of phytochemicals, or functional foods, such as lycopene.

he first tomatoes, legend has it, came from Peru. Just think of it — wild tomatoes can still be found in the Andes. By the time the Spanish conquistadors arrived in Central and South America, there was extensive cultivation of tomatoes. By the mid-16th century, tomato got a mention in a Nepalese cookbook. It is also amusing that tomato, which sounds characteristically Italian, evolved in a different continent, a different hemisphere. What is also weird is tomato was not introduced to the US and Canada via Mexico, as may be the popular opinion, where it was well-established, but through European immigrants. The rest is history. The benefits of consuming tomatoes are infinite. Tomato is an excellent source of vitamin C and other antioxidants. It can combat the formation of free radicals known to cause cancer. Lycopene in tomatoes is suggested to have prostate cancer prevention in several studies. Constipation. Eating foods that are high in water content and fibre, like tomatoes, can help to keep you hydrated and your bowel movements regular. Fibre is essential for easing constipation. Depression. The folic acid in tomatoes may help in depression by preventing excess of homocysteine from forming in the body, which can prevent blood and other nutrients from reaching the brain. Excess homocysteine interferes with the production of the ‘feel-good’ hormones, serotonin, dopamine and norepinephrine, which regulate not only mood, but sleep and appetite as well. Diabetes. Alpha-lipoic-acid helps the body to convert glucose into energy. Research suggests that it can also aid in blood glucose control, improve vasodilation and protect against retinopathy [loss of vision] in diabetic patients and even help

HOMEOPATHY & YOU | JULY 2014

preserve brain and nerve tissue. Heart health. The fibre, potassium, vitamin C and choline content in tomatoes support heart health. An increase in potassium intake, along with a decrease in sodium intake, is the most important dietary change that a person can make to reduce the risk of cardiovascular [heart] disease. A high potassium intake is also associated with a reduced risk of stroke, protection against loss of muscle mass, preservation of bone mineral density and reduction in the formation of kidney stones. Pregnancy. Adequate folic acid intake is essential for pregnant women to protect against neural tube defects in infants. Tomatoes are rich in folic acid. Skin. Collagen, the skin support system, is reliant on vitamin C, an essential nutrient. It works in our bodies as an antioxidant and prevents damage caused by the sun, pollution and smoke. It improves the overall skin texture. Tomatoes provide ample amounts of vitamin C for good skin health. NUTRITIONAL INDEX Tomatoes are a rich source of vitamins A and C. They are rich in folic acid, as mentioned before, and contain a wide array of beneficial nutrients and antioxidants, including alpha-lipoic acid, lycopene, choline, beta-carotene and lutein. Choline is an important nutrient found in tomatoes. It helps with sleep, muscle movement, learning and memory. It also helps to maintain the structure of cellular membranes, transmission of nerve impulses, absorption of fat. It also reduces chronic inflammation. One medium tomato [approximately 123gm] provides 22 calories, out of which 5gm is carbohydrate [1gm fibre and 3gm of sugar] and 1 gram protein. Tomato provides no fat.

MINERAL WEALTH

THE ‘LIGHT-BEARING’ ESSENTIAL NUTRIENT Phosphorus is a key mineral. It makes up one per cent of our total body weight and is present in every cell and plays a vital role in cell metabolism.

he word, phosphorus, is derived from the Greek word, phosphoros, which means ‘light-bearing.’ It was first isolated by Hennig Brand, a German physician and alchemist, in 1669. The primary function of phosphorus [pronounced, fos-fer-es] is in the formation of bones and teeth. It also plays a significant role in the body’s usage of carbohydrates and fats. While the mineral is essential to make protein for the growth, maintenance, and repair of cells and tissues, phosphorus also assists the body to make adenosine triphosphate [ATP], a molecule that helps the body to store energy. Phosphorus is the second-most abundant mineral in the body. Nearly 85 per cent of phosphorus is found in the bones. The rest of the body’s phosphorus is found in the blood, the fluid around and in cells, the heart, kidneys, brain, and muscles, where it is involved in numerous critical functions. Phosphorus is also an essential component of phospholipids, nucleic acids, phosphoproteins [casein], and several key enzymes. As a component of such important biological substances, phosphorus plays a vital role in cell metabolism. Its inorganic components serve as buffer to regulate the normal acid-base balance [pH] of body fluids. The absorption of inorganic phosphorus salts is facilitated by high gastric acidity; the more soluble the salt, the higher the availability and absorption of phosphorus. Phosphorus, which works with B vitamins, is also imperative for kidney function, muscle contraction, normal heartbeat and nerve signal transmission. Rich dietary sources of phosphorus are milk, yogurt, cottage cheese, American cheese, pork, hamburger, tuna, lobster, chicken, sunflower seeds, peanuts, pine

nuts, peanut butter, bran flakes, shredded wheat, whole wheat bread, noodles, rice, white bread, beans, potatoes, corn, peas, French fries, broccoli, milk chocolate and soda beverages, where phosphoric acid is added as a preservative. 50–80 per cent of phosphorus, in plant foods, such as cereals and oilseeds, occurs in the form of the calcium or magnesium salt of phytic acid. This organic form of phosphorus is hydrolysed within the gastrointestinal tract by the enzyme, phytase, before it can be utilised and absorbed. It may also be mentioned that the storage form of phosphorus, in whole-grain breads, is not absorbed by human beings. Fruits and vegetables contain just a small amount of phosphorus. Be that as it may, there is, by and large, no major deficit, or deficiency, of phosphorus — this is primarily because it is essentially available in our food supply chain and diet. Research suggests that extremely high levels of phosphorus in the blood, albeit uncommon, may form deposits in conjunction with calcium in soft tissues — for example, muscle. This reportedly occurs in primarily in individuals having major kidney disorders, or faulty calcium regulation. RECOMMENDED DAILY REQUIREMENT 0-6 months: 100mg 7-12 months: 275mg 1-3 years: 460mg 4-8 years: 500mg 9-18 years: 1,250mg Adults: 700mg Pregnant or lactating women: Younger than 20: 1,250mg Older than 20: 700mg

HOMEOPATHY & YOU | JULY 2014

HEALTH HAPPENINGS

MOUTH BACTERIA & PANCREATIC CANCER Patients with pancreatic cancer have a different and distinct profile of specific bacteria in their saliva compared to healthy controls and even patients with other types of cancer, or pancreatic disease, according to research presented at the American Society for Microbiology. The findings could form the basis for a test to diagnose the disease in its early stages. “Our studies suggest that ratios of particular types of bacteria found in saliva may be indicative of pancreatic cancer,” says Pedro Torres of San Diego State University, US, who presented the research. Patients diagnosed in the early stages of pancreatic cancer have a 5-year survival rate of 21.5 per cent. Unfortunately symptoms do not appear until after the cancer has become untreatable in the vast majority of cases, says Torres. In the study, Torres and his colleagues compared the diversity of saliva bacteria across 131 patients, 63 female and 68 male, being treated at the University of California, San Diego [UCSD] Moores Cancer Center. Of these patients, 14 had been diagnosed with pancreatic cancer, 13 with pancreatic disease, 22 with other forms of cancer and 10 disease-free. Results showed that patients diagnosed with pancreatic cancer had higher levels of two particular oral bacteria, Leptotrichia and Campylobacter, when compared to any other healthy or diseased state including non-cancerous pancreatic disease. Those with pancreatic cancer also had lower levels of Streptococcus, Treponema and Veillonella. Says Torres, “Our results suggest the presence of a consistently distinct microbial profile for pancreatic cancer.” He adds, “We may be able to detect pancreatic cancer at its early stages by taking the individuals’ saliva and looking at the ratios of these bacteria.”

HOMEOPATHY & YOU | JULY 2014

OF TASTE TEST & EXTENDED LIFESPAN One of the keys to good health isn’t just what you eat but how you taste it. Taste buds, yes, which you may blame for that sweet tooth, or French fry craving, may, in fact, have a powerful role in a long and healthy life — at least for fruit flies, report two new studies that appear in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, US. Researchers from the University of Michigan, Wayne State University and Friedrich Miescher Institute for Biomedical Research in Switzerland found that suppressing the animal’s ability to taste its food — regardless of how much it actually eats — can significantly increase, or decrease, its length of life and potentially promote healthy aging. Bitter tastes could have negative effects on lifespan, sweet tastes had positive effects, and the ability to taste water had the most significant impact — flies that could not taste water lived up to 43 per cent longer than other flies. The findings suggest that in fruit flies, the loss of taste may cause physiological changes to help the body adapt to the perception that it is not getting adequate nutrients. In the case of fruit flies whose loss of water taste led to a longer life, the authors suggest the animals may attempt to compensate for a perceived water shortage by storing greater amounts of fat and subsequently using the fat stores to produce water internally. New studies are planned to better explore how and why bitter and sweet tastes affect aging. “This brings us further understanding about how sensory perception affects health. It turns out that taste buds are doing more than we think,” says senior author of the University of Michigan-led study Scott Pletcher, PhD, associate professor in the Department of Molecular and Integrative Physiology and research associate professor at the Institute of Gerontology. “We know they’re able to help us avoid or be attracted

HEALTH HAPPENINGS to certain foods, but in fruit flies it appears that taste may also have a profound effect on the physiological state and healthy aging.” Recent studies suggest that sensory perception may influence health-related characteristics such as athletic performance, type-2 diabetes, and aging. The two new studies, however, provide the first detailed look into the role of taste perception. The findings, experts suggest, may help us better understand the influence of sensory signals, which we now know not only tune an organism into its environment but also cause substantial changes in physiology that affect overall health and longevity. MELATONIN MAKES OLD BONES STRONGER McGill researchers in the US have shown that melatonin supplements may make bones stronger in old rats. This suggests a possible avenue for the prevention of osteoporosis. Bones are built up by certain cells known as osteoblasts during the daytime and broken down by others [osteoclasts] at night. As we age, we sleep less, and so the cells that break down the bones are more active. By giving old rats melatonin supplements to regulate their circadian rhythms, the researchers have been able to make their bones denser, less brittle and more flexible. The next step is to explore whether melatonin supplements prevent bone breakdown, or can actually repair damage. Faleh Tamimi, a professor in McGill’s School of Dentistry, is the leader of a research team that has just discovered that melatonin supplements make bones stronger in elderly rats and, therefore, potentially, in elderly humans too. “Old rats are tedious to work with because they get sick a lot and that means they also cost a lot more. But, if you’re interested in diseases like osteoporosis, they’re an essential part of the process.” The process of bone breakdown and build-up is affected by our circadian rhythms [bioclocks]. The cells which break down our bones [osteoclasts] are more active at night, while those responsible for bone formation [osteoblasts] are more active during daylight hours. “As we age, we sleep less well, which means that the osteoclasts are more active,” says Tamimi. “This tends to speed up the process of bone breakdown.” It is already established that melatonin plays a role in regulating our body clocks and can potentially help us sleep better. The researchers suspected that a melatonin supplement would help regulate the circadian rhythms of elderly rats, thus reducing the activity of the osteoclasts and slowing down the process of bone breakdown. This is exactly what they found.

Germany — say music can affect blood pressure, heartbeat, respiration and even body temperature under normal conditions. The influence on pregnant women, they say, is much stronger, suggesting a prenatal conditioning of the foetus to music. Medical News Today reports a study that showed brain scans of jazz musicians with similarities between language and music, suggesting that the brain uses its syntactic regions to process all communication, whether spoken or musical. To conduct their study, the researchers, led by Dr Tom Fritz, played musical sequences up to 30 seconds long to women participants. The team modified the passages by playing them backwards or including dissonances, thus distorting the original instrumental songs and making them less pleasant to hear. Results showed that the pregnant women rated the pleasant music as more pleasant and the unpleasant music as more unpleasant. Additionally, the blood pressure response to the music was much stronger in the pregnant women. Forwardmoving dissonant music, for example, prompted a significant drop in blood pressure in pregnant women, whereas the backward-moving dissonant movement resulted in a higher blood pressure after 10 seconds and a lower level after 30 seconds. As Dr Fritz sums up, “Unpleasant music does not cause an across-the-board increase in blood pressure, unlike some other stress factors. Instead, the body’s response is just as dynamic as the music itself.” [Culled and Collated from the ‘Net]

PREGNANT WOMEN MORE RECEPTIVE TO THE EFFECTS OF MUSIC The pregnant body is much more sensitive to its surroundings; just ask a pregnant woman in the throes of morning sickness [nausea affecting pregnant women] if she wants a strong-smelling food. But now, new research shows that the effects of music are stronger in pregnant women, including greater changes in blood pressure. The researchers — from the Max Planck Institute for Human Cognitive and Brain Sciences in Leipzig,

HOMEOPATHY & YOU | JULY 2014

SUPER FOODS

THE POWER OF TWO Fibre-rich beans and snake gourd are loaded with natural health-enhancing and therapeutic properties.

eans are as old as civilisation. There is evidence that native Mexicans and Peruvians cultivated beans as early as 7,000 BCE. The use of beans existed in ancient Egypt and Asia, no less. It is, therefore, apparent that beans were an integral part of several cultures throughout the world. Beans are rich sources of protein, fibre and essential amino acids, especially lysine. Amino acids help to nourish muscle development; they also support muscle repair. This is reason why a combination of rice and beans makes a perennial favourite with most people. Beans also contain folacin and other minerals. The high fibre content in beans protects us against illness and disease, such as diabetes, heart disease and, perhaps, some forms of cancer — most notably, colon cancer. It is actually the insoluble fibre content of beans that also help to keep blood sugar stable. Besides, beans help to reduce the threat of constipation. More importantly, it is the soluble fibre in beans that reduce low-density lipoproteins [LDL], or ‘bad’ cholesterol and protect our heart. Beans, when not cooked properly, may, however, cause intestinal gas and discomfort in some individuals. Yet another reason is — beans pass directly into the large intestine, where they are broken down by bacteria in the gut, instead of being digested or absorbed, in the small intestine. This may make you feel more than a bit ‘gassy.’ Eating beans in small quantities is suggested to help reduce the possibility of such discomfort, while boosting your optimal health and well-being. Beans are rightly called ‘fat-burners’ — this is because they have the ability to give a sense of fullness and, in the process, help us to maintain healthy weight. NUTRITION FACT-FILE VITAMINS Vitamin A, 5IU Vitamin B1 [thiamine], 0.2mg Vitamin B2 [riboflavin], 0.11mg Vitamin B3 [niacin], 0.966mg Vitamin B5 [pantothenic acid], 0.393mg Vitamin B6 [pyridoxine] 0.186mg Vitamin B9 [folate], 133mcg Vitamin C, 2.1mg MINERALS Calcium, 112mg Copper, 0.204mg

HOMEOPATHY & YOU | JULY 2014

Iron, 1.91mg Magnesium, 99mg Manganese, 0.676mg Phosphorus, 181mg Potassium, 655mg Selenium, 2.1mcg Sodium, 11mg Zinc, 1.13mg [In one cup of French beans]. TONIC EFFECT Snake gourd [padwal, in Hindi], or Chinese cucumber, is said to have first originated in India. The tendril of the vegetable is divided into three parts. The leaves are angular and furry, encompassing of 5-7 lobes. The vegetable extends up to 150cm in length and 8cm in breadth. There are also smaller versions of snake gourd. Snake gourd has natural antibiotic, anti-inflammatory, expectorant and laxative properties. It can scatter mucous or phlegm, eliminate pus [infection] and purge toxic matter. It is also said to bring about a ‘cooling’ effect in the body. Snake gourd is a popular tonic for the heart. It is said to be a useful natural ‘adjuvant’ for cardiac disorders and for correcting nutritional imbalance. It is also said to stimulate the production of body fluids, while relieving dehydration in the system. The vegetable has earned a reputation too for easing night sweats in patients having pulmonary tuberculosis. Snake gourd is considered a useful ‘remedy’ for diabetes. This has led to clinical studies to scientifically understand its therapeutic potential as an anti-diabetic remedy. One reason for its utility value in controlling blood sugar levels is, perhaps, not merely related to its low-calorie food value — but, also to its natural ability to reduce weight in diabetics, while providing adequate nourishment. Snake gourd juice has, for long, been used as a home remedy for dandruff, while snake gourd leaves have been found to be effective in jaundice. It is evidenced that 100gm of snake gourd provides just 20 calories. What makes it a ‘treat’ is it is loaded with minerals like magnesium, calcium and phosphorous. The vegetable is also rich in dietary fibre and contains a host of medicinal compounds — viz., flavonoids, carotenoids and phenolic complexes. • Buy snake gourd which looks and feels fresh, green, soft and firm when pressed • Wrap in plastic bag and refrigerate — to keep fresh for 4-5 days • Tender snake gourd does not have seeds. Mature snake gourds have seeds. Discard seeds for better taste • Cook snake gourd with the peel.

READ. WATCH. LISTEN. EXPLORE 9-5 FITNESS MANTRA It’s hard, for office-goers, to stay fit with a 9-5 job. Wellness expert Namita Jain has seen the effects of it all — obesity, acidity, hypertension, diabetes, etc — all problems that can bog you down and affect your self-esteem and performance. The result: a 9-5 health plan that works around your schedule, while focusing on simple, easy-to-follow diets and exercises that can be performed at your desk, interspersed with effective solutions for late

nights, entertaining clients, irregular eating hours and travelling. Just do it and feel the difference.

A Working Person’s Guide to Looking Great and Performing Better! Namita Jain Penguin Books India pp: 248 Price: `199.00

A LUXURY EXPERIENCE The existence of the Kulu Valley can be traced to the Mahabharata. As legend goes, when the universal flood washed over the plains, Manu, the first king of the earth, was saved by the seventh avatar of Vishnu by towering high to dry lands. He found refuge in Manali, an emerald sheathed in the Himalayas, and made it his home. Span Resort and Spa is perched 4,500ft above sea

level in the valley of the gods, with the resonance of the River Beas for comfort. The 10-acre resort, with fruit orchids is set amidst the lush backdrop of deodar and pine, which is why the resort is a haunt for Bollywood celebrities too. For bookings, call: 011-4143 7900/0-9810 470335

MEDITATION MADE SIMPLE Time Off: The Fifteen Minute Meditator is designed to be used anywhere — at work, home, school or when travelling. Track one encompasses of a bell-tone synthesiser soundtrack which delivers a deep, theta-level meditation. Track two has an extended, 30-minute meditation, where the synchronicity technology of balance continues with the sounds of the softly rolling surf. Time Off... is laced with precision holodynamic vibrational entrainment technology [HVET], which also helps to balance the brain hemispheres, while enhancing whole brain synchrony and delivering

holistic awareness with far less time and effort than traditional techniques.

Time Off: The Fifteen Minute Meditator [One Audio CD] Master Charles Cannon Yogi Impressions Special Price: `186.00

SOUTHERN DELIGHT South of Vindhyas [The Orchid], Mumbai, represents a unique culinary concept with diverse flavours and delicacies from South India. You’ll find a menu replete with generations-old, traditional recipes, jostling alongside reinvented, fusion cuisine creations. Spices and certain key ingredients are sourced directly from original locations to replicate authentic taste. The cozy, quietly distinctive ambience reflects a palatial Mangalorian estate house replete with handmade paintings, hanging lamp from Tanjore, pure silk saree from Kanchipuram and a Samay at the entrance to

welcome the guest. The entire restaurant is done up with reused wood. As you savour the scintillating aroma and food, you’re also regaled with the vibrant cultural heritage of Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka, Kerala and Tamil Nadu states with live instrumental music by skilled musicians, not to speak of expert chefs who perform ‘live’ from the interactive kitchen. For bookings, call [Toll Free]: 1-800-22-5432

HOMEOPATHY & YOU | JULY 2014

CELEB FITNESS

GENELIA D’SOUZA’S WELLNESS MANTRA

enelia D’Souza, a peppy actress, known for her commendable performances in critically and commercially acclaimed movies, like Jaane Tu Ya Jaane Na, is also endowed with athletic physique. She credits it to her habit of eating every two hours. This keeps her away from munching unhealthy snacks. She likes spicy food. Cooking is not her forte though and at best she can manage fries and omelettes. She loves food made by her mom and prefers to have homemade food whenever possible. We reveal Genelia’s diet quotient, courtesy of celebfitness.blogspot.in. FOOD FOR THOUGHT I am a non-vegetarian. My favourite is chicken. I eat fish five times a week, because I am a Mangalorean and fish is our staple diet. I probably have chicken once a week and mutton once in a blue moon. I try to avoid red meat.

MY DIET ROUTINE I begin my day with a glass of warm water. Later, I get really hungry since I don’t have any carbohydrates at night. I like to have a proper breakfast, first thing in the morning. My breakfast. Two egg whites with a slice of bread. Quite often I have a South Indian breakfast, idli for instance. Half-an-hour later, I have a cup of coffee. I keep a gap of half-an-hour between all my meals. Like, for instance, in the morning if I eat an omelette, I have my coffee after half-anhour. Also, after having a glass of water in morning, in case I have an early shoot [5:30am or 6:00am], I have only a glass of vegetable juice since I can’t eat breakfast so early. My lunch. Two rotis, a vegetable, a fish/chicken dish. I follow this every half-an-hour to 45 minutes diet throughout the day. I am on this high protein diet, so I have egg whites throughout the day. As far as possible, I have home food. Even when I am shooting, I try and carry food from home. My favourite in Mangalorean food is. Mom-made delicious baangra fish, fish curry and prawns. My mom is convinced that fish is brain food. We have grown up eating a lot of fish. Among vegetables, I love palak. I love mushrooms in gravy, not dry. I need my food to be spicy and tasty. I don’t enjoy bland food at all. My Sunday lunch is. Usually a feast. The varying menu ranges from fish, chicken, rice, roti, salad and meetha, though I don’t have a sweet tooth. Evening snack. It is not so essential but I like to have a grilled sandwich, or poha once in a while.

HOMEOPATHY & YOU | JULY 2014

My dinner. I avoid carbs, but when one is out shooting one has fewer options. In the night, if I am at home, I eat a tandoori chicken. Both non-vegetarian elements and vegetables are a must in my meal. The food I love the most. Indian food. I enjoy tandoori stuff and kebabs. At home, I eat biryanis and curries because they are made in minimum oil. I am not too fond of sweets, but occasionally I eat a gulab jamun or a Toblerone chocolate. My favourite cuisine is Indian and Chinese food. I do enjoy Thai food once in a while. While shooting, I always carry. Khakras and dry bhel. When I am shooting in South. My favourite meal is the Hyderabadi biryani. I forget about the calories when Hyderabadi biryanis come in front of me. My fridge always contains. Cheese. I am a major cheese lover. I like smoked cheese and camel cheese. I enjoy cheese even though some cheese is bitter in taste. I enjoy eating different kinds of cheese. My favourite beverage is. Diet Coke. MY FITNESS REGIME I am not really a fitness freak. In fact, I hardly work out. I have been an athlete all through school and college and this has really helped me stay fit. I eat every half-an-hour, so my metabolic rate is high. But, if I have to work out I might jog and do a few crunches. I don’t go for heavy workouts; I have a trainer who comes to my place. I work out for halfan-hour at the maximum. I love to run.

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