Homeopathy & you October 2014 by Dr. Batras Media Pvt. Ltd.

Vol 1. Issue 12. October 2014 • `100

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Dr mUKESH BAtRA The homeopathic Mercurius personality PLUS

Medicine of dynamic balance Dreams & wellness All about food labels Goodness of litchi Soha Ali Khan’s wellness mantra

Dr RICHARD FIRSHEIN The healing power of sleep

HoMeopATHy & ATopic DerMATiTiS

HEALINg FRom tHE INSIDE oUt 2 50580 2 40 2000

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Vol 1. Issue 12. OCTOBER 2014

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INSIDE

Vol 1. Issue 12. OCTOBER 2014

Editorial Advisory Board Chairman| Dr Mukesh Batra Vice-Chairman| Dr Akshay Batra Editor & Publisher Dr Rajgopal Nidamboor rajgopal.nidamboor@homeopathyandyou.com Assistant Editor Kavita Nadkarni Head-Sales & Marketing Kiran Joshi Manager-Marketing J Chaitanya Kumar chaitanya.kumar@homeopathyandyou.com Contributing Writers Maneka Gandhi, New Delhi, India Dr Richard Firshein, New York, US Kerry Dulin, Michigan, US Nelressa Stallings, New Jersey, US Alan Jones, Wiltshire, UK Ambika Shukla, New Delhi, India Radhanath Swami, US/India Badrinath Durvasula, Mumbai, India Ruby Lilaowala, Mumbai, India Dr Preeti Mandawewala, Mumbai, India Amita Quenim, Goa, India Ryan Harrison, Los Angeles, US Vinesh Sukumaran, Bengaluru, India Eusebio Jason Fernandes, Goa, India Dr Pankaj Aggarwal, New Delhi, India

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Design HB Design Pvt Ltd Subscriptions Priti Gupta subscriptions@homeopathyandyou.com Website: www.homeopathyandyou.com E: editorial@homeopathyandyou.com Tel: 022-3367 1200 Fax: 022-3027 1415 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 atopic dermatitis with homeopathy Homeopathic ‘Sunsigns: Know your personality; know your remedy. Dr Mukesh Batra distils the homeopathic Mercurius, this month Medical Marvels: Case reviews from homeopathic doctors How Homeopathy Helped Me Your Little Box: Homeopathic Home Kit: Dulcamara Child Health: Assimilatory problems and their management Q&A: Doctor’s Orders What Lies Beneath: Medicine of dynamic balance Home[e]o Truths: Homeopathy and pregnancy Living Well: Dreams and wellness All about food labels The Way We Were & Are Fitness Equipment Top of Mind The goodness of litchi Health Happenings Read. Watch. Listen. Explore Celeb Fitness: Soha Ali Khan

20 COLUMNS 38 Live & Help Live: Maneka Gandhi 42 Good For You: Richard Firshein 43 Fighting Fit: Kerry Dulin 44 Corporate Wellness: Badrinath

Durvasula

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Whole & Soul: Radhanath Swami Life Coach: Vinesh Sukumaran Poise & Balance: Preeti

Mixed Bag: Ruby Lilaowala

Mandawewala

MAILBOX: READERS’ FEEDBACK A BEAUTIFUL CONCEPT I enjoyed reading “The homeopathic ‘firewall’ effect” in the September issue of H&Y. I always believed that bacteria or viruses are the only cause of diseases, or illnesses. However, after reading the article, I realised that such micro-organisms actually reside in the unwell organs of the body and thrive in them. I also understood the basic principle of homeopathy. It works on the beautiful concept of strengthening the body’s defence mechanisms, while flushing out illnesses from the system and not merely ‘kill’ the micro-organisms. Thanks; the article has really aroused my interest in homeopathic healing. S Kumar, Mysore

MARKED RELIEF After reading one of the cured thyroid cases in ‘Medical Marvels’ in one of your issues, I visited a local homeopath. I have been taking treatment since the 2-3 months. There has been a marked improvement in my condition. Never had I thought that homeopathy would have an answer for my thyroid problem. I am really happy with the treatment and would like to thank H&Y for bringing to us such cured cases. Jiya Bhatt, Vadodara

VARIETY FARE: READERS WRITE IN Our September 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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WRITE FOR US!

INSTANT HIT I read H&Y magazine regularly and especially enjoy reading articles on child health, lifestyle and food. I have been following Tarla Dalal’s column and have tried all her recipes that have been featured so far. Her rajma cheese parathas recipe in your September issue was an instant hit with my kids. They just loved it. Even their friends in school have requested me to keep sending them in the tiffin box regularly. Thanks to H&Y for bringing to us such tasty and healthy recipes. Bijan Ghosh, Kolkata USEABLE INFORMATION I always thought that dark circles were caused primarily due to lack of sleep or constant exposure to the computer screen. However, after reading the article on dark circles in the ‘Living Well’ section of H&Y [September 2014], I realised there may also be other factors that cause dark pigmentation below the eyes. I went for a medical check-up and was diagnosed with iron deficiency. I am currently taking treatment; thanks for providing me the clue about the important trigger. Ayesha D’Silva, Mangalore

LETTER OF THE MONTH I would like to congratulate H&Y for bringing us such wonderful content in every issue of the magazine. I have been reading H&Y since January 2014, and I must say that not even in a single issue has the content been either repetitive, or weary. All the topics are well thought and well researched. I would also like to make a special mention of Dr Mukesh Batra’s article on cardiac health in the September issue. It was an eye-opener, as I never thought that cholesterol can ever be good. A lot of advertisements and articles actually mislead us. Thanks to you, doc, we can now make an informed choice. I will definitely visit the local homeopath for consultation regarding my heart health and that of my family.

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!

Send in yours, TODAY! 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-res .jpeg format {300 dpi}; as attachment], contact information and anything you feel we should know.

E-mail your submission to: editorial@homeopathyandyou.com

Ashwin Naik, Mumbai HOMEOPATHY & YOU | OCTOBER 2014

FOCUS

HOMEOPATHY & ATOPIC DERMATITIS:

HEALING FROM THE INSIDE OUT Homeopathy views atopic dermatitis [eczema] as the outer expression of a causal, or underlying internal dilemma. It stimulates and corrects the mind-body’s internal workings and drives the external aberration out of the body — not just from the surface.

By Dr AKSHAY BATRA

ost of us think of our skin as just the outer layer, or coat — not an organ. The skin, in reality, is an organ. It is actually the largest organ in our body. Any aberration, or injury, to the skin impacts the physical and psychological functions of the individual as a whole, not just the parts. Atopic dermatitis, or simply eczema, for ease of reference, or understanding, in common parlance, is one such blemish. The two expressions are often used interchangeably — for the sake of convenience. The word, ‘eczema,’ comes from the Greek, for ‘to boil

HOMEOPATHY & YOU | OCTOBER 2014

or flow out.’ It is used for a group of skin conditions that show a pattern — a disagreeable blueprint characterised by redness, itching and ‘serum-filled’ blisters with crusting and scaling. SYMPTOMS • Blisters with oozing and crusting; discharge, or bleeding • Raw areas of the skin from scratching • Skin colour changes; redness of skin, or inflammation around the blisters

• Thickened or leather-like areas, called lichenification, which can occur after long-term irritation and scratching • The rash or where the rash appears may vary vis-à-vis the age of the individual • In children younger than age two, skin lesions begin on the face, scalp, hands and feet. This may often present in the form of a crusting, bubbling, or ‘oozing’ rash. In older children and adults, the rash is generally seen on the inside of the knees and elbows, as well as the neck, hands and feet • In severe forms of eczema, rashes may appear anywhere on the body • Itching is a key symptom. It may manifest before the rash appears. Note: If you have two or more of the above signs, you may most likely have atopic dermatitis. Consult your homeopathic doctor promptly. TYPES Atopic dermatitis is possibly the most known type, followed by contact dermatitis. Other types are allergic [an itchy skin rash that develops when you come into contact with an allergen], discoid [characterised by round or oval, blistered or dry, skin lesions], seborrhoeic dermatitis [an inflammatory skin disorder affecting the scalp, face, and torso. Seborrhoeic dermatitis presents with scaly, flaky, itchy, and red skin and affects the sebaceous-gland-rich areas of skin]. Eczema associated with poor circulation in the legs and varicose veins is referred to as venous, varicose, stasis or gravitational dermatitis. Discoid eczema is difficult to treat; it may often persist for months. Atopic dermatitis is a common chronic skin disease in childhood. It tends to resolve before adulthood in most instances, although the affected individual may remain susceptible to recurrences. The disorder is characterised by apparent irritation to a variety of substances that come in contact with the skin. Contact dermatitis is more common in adults than in children. The focus of treatment is often related to atopic eczema, not because it is the most vigorous form, but because research is too focused on its study. Eczema accounts for 15 per cent of medical consultations. Its effects are not merely physical. It has psychological underpinnings — not just with the affected individual, but also family, friends and colleagues. • Eczema can impact work, home and social life; for children, their school life • It can also lead to poor performance at the job interview. It can affect one’s job. It can limit one’s career choices • It can affect one’s self-esteem and self-confidence • It can lead to depression • It can affect the individual while ‘cultivating’ relationships — one may also feel awkward seeing or touching their partner’s body • It can cause repulsion among other members of the family.

Note: Only a small percentage of eczema patients report that their conventional doctors discuss about the emotional impact of the disorder with them. Not so homeopathic doctors, who spend a good deal of time listening to and discussing the disorder from the individual’s perspective, because no two eczema patients present with the same unique symptoms, other than the disorder by its name. ATOPIC DERMATITIS ‘Atopy,’ or individualised form of allergy, mirrors our immune response to allergens in our surroundings. This is characterised by elevated levels of immunoglobulin type E [IgE]. Studies suggest that 65-70 per cent of cases present before the age of six months. This is reported to rise to 85-90 per cent before age five. Atopy is evidenced to affect three per cent of infants. It has a tendency to stay put for several years. The ‘saving grace’ is 60–70 per cent of eczematous children would be free from their eczematous distress by their early teenage years. Though they remain vulnerable to recurrences and suffer from problems of dry skin, the intensity of rash may vary. • In one’s early years, or infancy, the rash often starts on the face with vesicles [small, fluid-filled sacs] and discharge. The distribution is often vague, although eczema may sometimes spare the napkin area • As the child grows, eczema may affect the knees, elbows, wrists and ankles, while the skin becomes increasingly thickened, dry and excoriated. This is called ‘lichenification,’ or leathery surface • When eczema extends into one’s adulthood, there is often amplified lichenification with increased tendency for the illness to affect the trunk, face and hands. SEBORRHOEIC DERMATITIS This is most common in infancy and adulthood, especially in men. It is uncommon during later childhood years.

HOMEOPATHY & YOU | OCTOBER 2014

However, unlike atopic eczema, it does not itch. The baby won’t scratch its skin. Symptoms include — • A red, scaly rash on the scalp and ears, around the nose and in the creases down to the lips and eyebrows. This is called ‘cradle cap’ • There may be a dry, crusty rash on the scalp, the centre of the chest and upper back with extensive eruptions of little bumps and spots around the hair follicles • At times, the area under the spectacles, hearing aids, armpits, belly button and groin, may be affected. There is yet another form of eczema caused by contact with irritant chemicals — irritant contact dermatitis. This may be blamed in 80 per cent of cases; the other cause being allergic eczema. In like manner, moist, or ‘weeping’ eczema tends to affect women more than men. Environmental triggers for contact eczema seem to be more important than any genetic trigger. This could be long-lasting, especially when they start at a young age and are not caused by a specific allergy. There is also an additional form of irritant eczema, a form of allergy to nickel [watch strap]. This is different from irritant contact eczema in several ways — it conforms to a type of immune reaction called delayed hypersensitivity reaction. It has a definitive history. • Previous contact is a prerequisite to provoke response • Response is specific to one substance • All areas of skin may react once ‘sensitisation’ has taken place • ‘ Sensitisation’ often persists without letting up; desensitisation is not likely. When there is, for instance, nickel allergy, for jewellery and metal fastenings in clothing, or garlic, or perfumes, eczema is a possibility. You should suspect allergy when the pattern of eczema is unusual — when it affects the eyelids, around legs, hands or feet. Or, when there is exposure to common allergens — in the garden, at your hairdresser, or beauty parlour. CAUSES There are myriad causes and triggers for eczema. Intrinsic [internal] eczema occurs from within the body. Extrinsic [external] eczema occurs because of certain underlying triggers — irritants, allergy and bacterial infection. The former also encompasses of ‘atopy,’ or a personal [hereditary] predisposition to eczema, asthma and hay fever [allergic rhinitis, or nasal allergy]. • Irritants. The primary triggers are chemicals, detergents and chemical cosmetics • Physical. Friction and aggressive rubbing or chafing of skin and/or sunlight [photodermatitis] • Artificial UV rays [ultraviolet light, from bulb or gadget] • Allergies. This is caused by immune responses to any allergen coming in contact with or ingested by mouth. Note: Most doctors prefer to use the word ‘dermatitis,’ for some types of eczema. This includes napkin [diaper] dermatitis, photodermatitis and neuro-dermatitis. For asteatotic eczema [dry, cracked, and polygonally fissured skin with irregular scaling], ‘eczema’ is the favoured term.

HOMEOPATHY & YOU | OCTOBER 2014

For seborrhoeic and discoid types, eczema and dermatitis are often used synonymously. Intrinsic and extrinsic eczema, however, may not be exclusive in the same individual at all times. They are, at best, a broad ‘tag’ aimed at figuring out the core or underlying cause. Most authorities classify eczema as acute, suggesting rapid onset and short duration, or chronic, or long-standing, eczema. The duration of eczema is connected with certain pointers vis-à-vis the cause, or triggers, involved. Shortterm, or acute eruptions is characterised by intense inflammation and formation of little blisters [vesicles] on the skin. When they rupture, or are scratched open, it leads to ‘weeping’ and ‘flowing out’ of fluid. Long-term, chronic eruption is characterised by thickening of the skin with obvious skin lines. Vesicles, or no vesicles, or more precisely eczematous skin, when examined in the laboratory, presents with ‘fluid’ between skin cells. This also has a spongy appearance –– all the more reason why eczema is sometimes called spongiosis. All forms of eczema show a spongy appearance with some inflammatory changes around superficial blood vessels — in the form of hot, red ‘sensation’ or manifestation. The expression, eczema, is also used for a group of conditions that show a similar pattern of changes in the skin, accompanied by certain changes on the surface. INCIDENCE Eczema appears to be more common in boys than girls. Studies suggest that nearly 15-20 per cent, most often children, could suffer from the disorder at some time. This figure has been steadily growing over the past 25 years. The most widespread form, as already cited, is atopic

eczema; the earlier it appears, the more likely the child grows out of it. Contact eczema has a tendency to appear in adult life, preceded by a history of atopic eczema. About 5–10 per cent of children with atopic eczema often develop hand eczema in adult life, even after they have overcome it. This is most likely in some people whose professions include hairdressing, technical trade or nursing that entails repetitive irritation and damage to the hands. Research suggests that atopic eczema, asthma and hay fever may also go hand-in-hand as ‘atopic’ diseases. Asthma affects 10-15 per cent of people at some time in their life. A child with eczema, it is observed, has nearly 50 per cent risk of being affected by asthma as well. THE ALLERGY LEGACY It is likely that a certain gene, or combination of genes, predisposes eczema in some individuals. Allergy, in precise medical terms, refers to a substance that causes an abnormally disproportionate response in the body’s immune system. This is measurable — through the levels of antibodies in the white blood cells [WBCs], or lymphocytes. In addition, such reactions should be replicated each time the substance is used. This is confirmatory evidence for diagnosis. The problem with atopic eczema is the immune responses may get modified by the environment. For example, woollen clothes and pet dander [tiny flecks of skin shed by cats, dogs, birds and other animals with fur or feathers] may cause irritation and trigger eczema, although they may not quite play the role of true allergens.

GOING ‘NUTS’ WITH PEANUTS Peanuts are infamous for causing severe allergic reactions, or anaphylaxis. The condition is characterised by swelling of the lips and face, vomiting, difficulty in breathing, extensive urticaria [hives] and even collapse. This is a medical emergency. The incidence of anaphylaxis seems to be escalating, unlike several other food intolerances or sensitivities. Some researchers say that children with atopic allergy should avoid eating peanuts, until late childhood. This may prevent nut allergy from developing — even if it does not trigger eczema. One would do well to carry an ‘allergy card’ to let anyone know that you have peanut allergy — this helps when you are so overwhelmingly affected by allergy that you just can’t speak.

HYGIENE HYPOTHESIS Allergic diseases, such as eczema, are evidenced to develop if the immune system of an infant or young child is ‘understimulated’ from lack of contact with infection, dirt or dust — this is reflected with good hygiene in the developed world [Not so much in the developing world, where the immune system is naturally designed to develop protection against infections]. When a child is not exposed to such ‘aberrations,’ the immune system finds something else — ‘non-allergic’ substances — to react to. This becomes a potential trigger for eczema.

DIAGNOSIS Your homeopathic doctor will diagnose eczema on the overall presentation of symptoms and on — • Appearance, or texture, of the skin • Personal and family history • Examination of the lesions to rule out other possible causes • A skin lesion biopsy — the removal of a small piece of tissue for laboratory examination — may be performed, but is not always needed to make the diagnosis • Allergy skin testing may be helpful for people with difficult-to-treat eczema and other allergy symptoms.

ROLE OF DIET Although diet, according to emerging research, is not a major trigger for eczema, it can carry a certain inherited susceptibility, especially in infants. If one is witness to eczema worsening after eating a certain food, one should exclude the food for 3-4 months — if there is no improvement in eczema ‘that’ food may not be the trigger. It may, thereafter, be slowly reintroduced. Either way, a dietician should be consulted — more so, when it is a question of exclusion diets. One worrisome question relates to breast-feeding mothers with eczema on the nipple, or areolar [connective] tissue around the breast. It is imperative that they to speak to a doctor and evaluate what needs to be done.

TESTS There are two types of allergy tests for skin disease: • Patch tests • Skin-prick tests. Patch tests are used to determine allergy to nickel, chromate, rubber, dye, glue or perfume. There may also be a ‘delayed allergy response’ that sometimes develops after repeated exposure to a substance. Skin-prick tests are used to ‘tap’ instantaneous type of allergy, or type-I allergy, such as pet dander, fur, house dust mites [HDM], pollen and food such as egg, milk, fish and nuts. These tests are useful, but not absolute, with ‘pertinent’ allergens in asthma, food intolerance, or sensitivity, and hay fever [allergic

HOMEOPATHY & YOU | OCTOBER 2014

rhinitis, or nasal allergy]. Most doctors contend that it is unfair to administer 15-20 pin-pricks, or blood tests, on a young child with atopic eczema, if it is not going to help more than what one already knows, or suspects. Note: There are other types of allergic responses, aside from type-I allergy. Type-II allergy means the body’s own cells have been damaged and are treated as allergens by the immune system. Examples are blood infusion allergy. Drug-induced allergies are called type-III reactions. Type-IV allergies are characterised by delayed allergic reaction [e.g., transplant rejection]. It is imperative for one to stop using inexpensive jewellery in the wake of eczema episodes. Other triggers such as clothes fasteners — jeans studs, hooks and zips — cigarette lighters, wristwatches, key chains, spectacle frames and pens, drawer and cupboard handles, kitchen utensils, toasters and silver coins — may also be discreetly given the ‘no-no’ sign. As far as food is concerned, enlisting a dietician/ nutritionist to address the question whether to take or not take milk, eggs, asparagus, oysters, herrings, mushrooms, onions, garlic, tomatoes and rhubarb [used in pies and other desserts], is imperative. Some people with eczema, asthma and hay fever [allergic rhinitis, or nasal allergy] are sensitive to conventional drugs, such as aspirin and other nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs [NSAIDs], for example, nimesulide. Research, however, surmises that these drugs often trigger urticaria [hives], not so much eczema — but, they may yet be a likely ‘cause.’ Some people routinely ‘dab’ mustard oil, an irritant, on eczematous skin. Apart from anecdotal evidence, there is hardly any clinical support to prove that this

helps. It can, on the contrary, harm your skin. HEALING WITH HOMEOPATHY Homeopathy views skin disorders as outer expressions of an underlying, latent dilemma in the body’s built-in regulatory mechanism, or immune function. In other words, a skin eruption, as homeopathy advocates, is essentially the external manifestation of the body’s internal turmoil. It also mirrors, according to homeopathic principles, a situation where the body’s immune system is waging a battle and doing well under pressure — or, trying to push the threat away from other major organs, such as the lungs, joints, heart, brain and also out of the body. This skirmish, of course, is not exciting to look at on the surface — an embattled skin looks anything but aesthetic, or healthy. The actual thing is the body has protected itself, although it has not resolved the problem completely. It needs time. Most often, we don’t give our body the time to handle things on its own. We meddle with our body’s natural attempt to drive out the problem from within. Worse still, we push the problem inwards — to a deeper, more dangerous level — with the routine use of conventional over-the-counter [OTC] steroidal creams and ointments. What homeopathy does is — it stimulates our inner workings and drives the aberration out of the body, and not just from the surface. HOMEOPATHIC REMEDIES IN A NUTSHELL Calcarea Carbonicum is useful in treating eczema in fat children, who sweat heavily, mostly on the scalp, and have sluggish circulation

THINGS TO DO Vacuum-clean your carpets, curtains and soft furnishings — they are a potential ‘retreat’ for house dust mites [HDM], an allergy trigger Relax and have a ‘me-time’ for yourself –— this will help to reduce your stress levels Keep the scratch ‘bug’ at bay, because when you are at home, you might feel inclined to scratch. This can become a habit — a dangerous routine Choose your soap. Don’t use soap that works up rich lather or bubble. Also avoid bubble bath and shower gel. A soap substitute, such as aqueous cream or emulsifying lotion, should be used instead. This will act as an effective cleansing agent on your skin. Soap-free lotions could be a better option The use of olive oil and aloe vera lotion or cream as moisturiser is beneficial eething in children is evidenced to trigger flare-ups of eczema on the face. Research says that this may be related T to excess dribbling of saliva and subsequent irritation around the mouth, rather than any direct consequence of teething. Encourage children to practice good hygiene moking is a major irritant and an eczema trigger. Avoid, or give up, smoking. Make sure your child is not exposed to S cigarette smoke Follow-up with your homeopathic doctor on a regular basis.

HOMEOPATHY & YOU | OCTOBER 2014

Cicuta Virosa is effective for eczema which is worse on the face and hands, or when the individual with eczema ‘feels hot’ Graphites is useful in ‘wet’ eczema; it is associated with a sticky, honey-like fluid oozing from inflamed patches. These may dry out or become rough, or hard Mezereum is prescribed for itchy, thick scabs [a hard coating on the skin formed during the wound healing reconstruction phase], beneath which there is pus. This gets worse for warm baths Psorinum is effective when the skin is broken and

sensitive, or when the slightest scratch becomes infected, forming a green crust which burns and itches. This may crack and bleed later Oleander is useful when the skin is dry, sensitive, and itchy, or when the slightest friction results in soreness and scratching causes the skin to bleed and weep Other useful homeopathic remedies include Arsenicum Album, Calcarea Phosphoricum, Petroleum, Sulphur and Vinca Minor, among others — depending upon the individual’s unique nature of symptoms and presentation.

SELF-HELP Avoid handling or preparing ‘irritant’ foods, such as lemon, oranges, onion, chillies, raw vegetables [especially tomatoes] and salty, spicy food Avoid pets that have furry or hairy coats — e.g., cats and dogs — when you have severe [known] allergy Keep fingernails cut short — you will not reach and attend to an ‘itch’ quickly Clothes and bedding should preferably be of cotton — not wool or synthetic material Wear cotton gloves when doing housework such as vacuum-cleaning, dusting or polishing Use ‘organic’ or non-biological washing powder. Rinse clothes thoroughly after washing to remove traces of soap powder. Use an extra rinse cycle in the washing machine Keep rooms well-ventilated. If your child has eczema, ask him or her to stay out of the room when you are cleaning Keep cool and dry; sweat, especially after exercise, or exertion, can irritate the skin, leading to itchy, dry, eczematous skin

ixteen-year-old Nisha presented with eczema, a problem which had troubled her for over eight years. She was already on regular conventional treatment, which only offered her temporary relief. On case analysis, we found that there was a strong family history of asthma on her mother’s side. We also traced the origin of her eczematous patches, a few days after the death of her paternal grandmother, who she loved immensely and now missed badly. The most affected area was her left ankle, with a ‘new’ dry eczematous patch showing on her foot. The skin in the said area was thick and dark, because of constant itching. Nisha also reported that her symptoms would increase at every change of weather, or whenever she came in contact with dust. Nisha suffered from headaches too, as and when she went out in the sun; she often complained of constipation. Her mother reported that she was fond of adding extra salt to everything she ate. She was, her mother expressed,

orty-one-year-old Manas came to us with a gloomy expression on his face. He had been living with ungainly symptoms of recurrent itchy eruptions on the legs and arms for over 15 years. His problem was diagnosed as atopic dermatitis. He was on conventional treatment for long, but without success. A detailed case analysis revealed his sympathetic, generous nature and love for eggs and shopping.

CASE STUDY

not expressive of her emotions. “It is difficult to know what is going on in her mind.” Her elder sister said that whenever Nisha remembered her grandmother, she would cover her face with a pillow and cry. She did “not like anyone seeing her cry, though.” We prescribed her the homeopathic remedy, Pulsatilla, made from windflower — which typifies moody, weepy individuals. It did not take long for Nisha’s family members to notice improvement in her moods. She started, albeit slowly, to mix and share her problems with her elder sister. After ten months of homeopathic treatment, Nisha was able to stop her topical steroidal cream and other conventional medications; there was also substantial improvement in the new patches. After one year of homeopathic treatment, the formation of new patches was controlled; the itching and dryness too improved considerably. The frequency and intensity of her headaches also slowly reduced; her bowel movements improved just as well.

CASE STUDY

We prescribed him the homeopathic remedy, Calcarea Phosphoricum, based on his emotional and physical attributes — a short, wiry man — along with dietary modifications. He was also advised to practice stress-relieving techniques. After ten months of homeopathic treatment, Manas’s eruptions started decreasing; his itching too subsided. With further treatment, the lesions improved significantly.

Dr Akshay Batra, a renowned homeopath, is Managing Director, Dr Batra’s. He is the first-ever homeopath-trichologist from Asia to be elected President of the Trichological Society of London, his alma mater. 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. Dr Akshay 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 | OCTOBER 2014

WHAT’S YOUR TYPE: YOUR PERSONALITY

MERCURIUS: THE HUMAN BAROMETER The homeopathic Mercurius Solubilis represents the anxious and restless types. Of individuals who pine for stability and harmony, but ‘play down’ their inner sense of hurry. The outcome is insecurity, withdrawal, caution, or tangible aloofness.

may sometimes lead to fury. When Mercurius ercury has had a long history of medicinal use — from Egyptian individuals suspect illness, or are ill, they inscriptions dating to 1600 BCE, the decelerate in their mind and body, although they therapeutic notes of ancient Greeks, Romans, never lose their latent restlessness. Illness often Indians, and Arabs, among others. Mercury leads Mercurius personalities to indecision, was part of belligerent treatment for syphilis, memory issues, undecided communication, and By Dr MUKESH BATRA skin and other diseases, during the early lament too. and mid-1900s, until its toxic effects became A constant urge to eat is clearly characteristic, widely known and accepted. with a strong urge for bread, butter, and cold drinks, The homeopathic Mercurius Solubilis, or Mercurius especially milk, or beer. On the contrary, Mercurius individuals are known for their deep aversion to meat, Solubilis Hahnemanni, was proved by Dr Samuel sweet foods, alcoholic drinks, and coffee. When you Hahnemann, MD, founder of homeopathy, who have, or know someone with profuse, strong smelling prescribed it primarily for ulcers, glandular problems secretions, think of Mercurius — it is just the remedy and offensive discharges, among other health issues. The homeopathic remedy is prepared chemically by one would need to treat the latent or primary ailment, or using liquid metal mercury. alleviate and drive out other associated symptoms from Mercury, or quicksilver, is primarily used in the body and mind. thermometers, sphygmomanometers [blood pressure measuring instruments] and batteries. Till some EMOTIONAL & MENTAL PORTRAIT years ago, mercury was the main ingredient in dental Mercurius connotes a neutral attitude, volatility and fillings. However, thanks to science’s well-founded changeover. The Mercurius individual has a variety disagreement on its safe use, other substances, such as of characteristics which lead to its typical symptoms, amalgam, have become popular. It may be emphasised when one’s vital energy goes out of sync. The individual that exposure to, or touching, mercury could result in who requires Mercurius as a homeopathic remedy is toxicity. Symptoms of toxicity include profuse vomiting not steady, or secure. Their immune systems are often and salivary secretions. wobbly and variable; so also their emotions and mind. What fits their bill today may trouble them tomorrow. Mercurius Solubilis represents the anxious and restless type. Of individuals who pine for stability and Mercurius often absorbs impressions like the sponge harmony. They connote a conservative outlook. They and reacts to them. They are formed and changed by have a strong urge to play down their inner sense of everything. Confusion is as much a part of their psyche hurry. The outcome is obvious — insecurity, withdrawal, as are external impressions, or changing perceptions, and caution, or tangible aloofness, with an element reactions and thoughts. Mercurius has a sharp tongue of arrogance in their dealings, even with people who — their speech, as a result, is often hasty, or rushed. they know well. Such ‘bottled-up’ feelings, or variance, Mercurius is called the human barometer — not just

HOMEOPATHY & YOU | OCTOBER 2014

in terms of the individual‘s temperament, but also his, or her, sensibility to cold, or warmth, more so when the weather or temperature changes from hot to cold, or from calm to turbulence. This applies to joint or bone disorders too, where the pains tend to get worse at night. Other keynote symptoms include glandular swellings, with or without suppuration [suppression], ptyalism, or surplus saliva, with a fetid metallic taste in the mouth. Mercurius represents duality — a liquid, slipperylike grease, yet spirited, calm and fiery. It has what may be related to as ‘unity in diversity’ — this can be tricky, voyager-like or a guide to every soul — a path to spiritual materialism. Think of it as ‘laughing your way to the bank,’ or pot of gold. Other classical signs include: • Lethargy • Sitting, or a strong inclination to recline • Slow, or sluggish temperament • Tired of life • A hatred for life, when things don’t work out the way you want them to • Suicidal disposition. Mercurius emotes narcissist and egotist tendencies. This is primarily because the homeopathic remedy is the embodiment of one’s own being — the pure energetic state of matter as well as perpetual or enduring spirit. In other words, the beginning and the transformed. Mercurius often seems to be more intellectual than expressive. They have a sense of ‘mindful’ intensity with more than an element of inquisitiveness. They are often adept with words and language; they have a knack for mathematics and numbers too, but so long as they are free of illness, or health concerns. Mercurius types shed their guard when unwell and emote a sense of absent-mindedness, dullness, forgetfulness, bewilderment and absurdity, with a lack of ideas or contexts. This leads them to making

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mistakes while writing or speaking — even to the extent of having difficulty in recognising their own home, or relatives. However, most Mercurius individuals consider their intellect as being ‘better than average’ till they confront someone of equivalent intelligence. It is not uncommon for Mercurius to indulge in self-talk, while mumbling a few words to oneself, if not to someone who is of ‘secondary’ intelligence, or knowledge. Mercurius is passionate, energetic, and also impetuous — they do not often think of danger, albeit they may get too tired, or bored, with the familiar, be it their surroundings or people around them. Mercurius may also, at times, appear bogged down with feelings of destruction, while raving with the eerie intent of harming people that they know well or love. Mercurius can be insatiable, or contemptible — their outlook for wealth, or money, being driven by a want of self-discipline and overindulgence. The result is they may often squander their bank balance. Their eating habits, or diets, can, likewise, be a cause of illness, owing to their indiscretion — either they keep a strong control, or overeat to get over their emotional blues. This may be the ‘spin-off’ for their mental or emotional anxieties — they may, thus, react to everything, although from deep within they long for a home — a home, sweet home, that represents harmony, balance, and inner peace. Mercurius’ physical symptoms include abscesses [a collection of pus that has built up within the tissue of the body], ulcers, fever, and swollen glands, along with profuse sweating. Excessive salivation is common, as already cited, so also constant swallowing and dribbling of saliva on the pillow at night. Most Mercurius symptoms tend to be worse at night and aggravated by extremes of heat or cold. Mercurius individuals also seem to feel best in moderate temperature, or climate. Is this one reason why mercury meets the criteria as an excellent ‘medium’ in thermometers? Or, helps the type to recuperate, or recover, from illness just as quickly? Mercurius’ therapeutic range also covers chronic conjunctivitis, and other eye disorders, when present with red, swollen eyelids, which may seem like ‘stuck together.’ There may be a burning feeling, along with watery and aching eyes. Mercurius is also effective in nasal disorders, triggered by the common cold, or allergy. The symptoms include a runny nose, with a stinging mucous discharge, or sneezing with a sensation as if the nose is raw, or excoriated. Mercurius is more than handy in skin disorders — such as crusted lesions on the scalp when accompanied by a foul-smelling exudate, or pus-filled eruptions, including blisters, on the surface. The remedy also works well for skin ulcers, or open sores — which present with a burning and itchy sensation. Mercurius, as is obvious, is employed by homeopathic doctors to treat a mixed bag of health problems — right from mouth and throat ulcers to oral thrush [candida infection], inflamed gums, or gingivitis, tonsillitis, halitosis, or bad breath, and loosened teeth with infected gums. The throat may show a bloated, dark

red, inflamed area, when viewed under a probing light or torch. Other health conditions that Mercurius is useful for are neuralgic twinge [stabbing, burning pain], sporadic cough, fever, when accompanied by a soaking, oily, disgusting, smelly perspiration that cools the skin after evaporation, or aggravates other symptoms. A weak headache, distended neck and swollen glands, earache with foul-smelling discharges, aside from painful, or aching joints may also be characteristic. Mercurius is as effective for gastric disorders — diarrhoea, dysentery, slimy, bloody stools with colic [crampy pain], and a fainting feeling, followed by great tenesmus [‘never get done feeling’] during and after stool. This is often followed by a feeling of chilliness. THE MERCURIUS INDEX • The Mercurius individual is hypochondriacal [excess worry about one’s health], suspicious, anxious, and restless at night, with profuse sweating • Restless distress with the intent to constantly change place • Excess anxiety of mind, dread and indifference to everything. Does not care; is often dissatisfied and ill-tempered • Slow in answering questions • Weak memory, constant unease or apprehension • Trembling of the hands, and feet, unable to write; a sensation of coldness • Has to wear a heavy overcoat, even in hot summers; profuse sweat on every motion • Cough — dry, fatiguing, usually in two paroxysms [sudden bouts of cough]. Cough, worse at night. The individual finds it difficult to lie down on the right side • Ulcers appear on the gums, tongue, throat, and inside of the cheek with excess salivation; they may be irregular in shape with undefined edges, or have a dirty, unhealthy look • Ulcers of the mouth, with well-defined edges, enveloped by a coppery-coloured hue • Teeth problems, caries [cavity] and decay • Gums, spongy and bleeding, tongue may appear black, juxtaposed by red edges • Tongue red, swollen, coated — it may carry the impression of teeth on the margins • Bad odour from mouth, fierce stomatitis [mouth ulcers] • Eye disorders, aggravated from the glare and heat of kitchen appliances, or stove • Inflamed eyelids [blepharitis] of foundry men, or from working in and about fire • Eyelids thickened at the edges, with thin, acrid [unpleasant] mucous-filled, pus-like discharge and little pimples over the cheeks • Corneal ulcers and iritis [inflammation of the iris] • Inflammation of the neck and other glands

[submaxillary, axillary and parotids] • Effective in buboes, or enlarged lymph nodes, a classical sign of syphilis, at the stage of suppuration • Liver disorders — enlarged and indurated [‘rockyhard’] liver. Worse, lying right side • Profuse offensive perspiration, soaking through the bedclothes, the linen is stained yellow — this can’t be cleaned with the best of detergents • Itching of the anus with excess hunger and eating • Round worm infection • Diarrhoea with dark green, bilious, frothy, watery and colourless stools with greenish foam floating on the surface of water. Or, chronic constipation with chilliness during defaecation • Coated tongue, loss of appetite, with oppression and epigastric [upper central region of the abdomen] sensitivity or tenderness; a deadly faintness from pressure at the pit of stomach • Tenderness over stomach, with fullness and upward pressure from the abdomen, and sensitiveness to clothing • Joint, or arthritic pain; worse at night • Inflammation, prickling, in affections of shoulder blades, shin bones, and leg • Burning skin eruptions, having a scarlet colour; miliary [small] eruptions purulent [pus-filled], ulcerating, with black and blue spots; red rashes, with suppurating ulcers • Itching and burning of the genital organs in men. Most symptoms are relieved by washing with cold water • Fetid breath, in girls, with inflammation of the vulva • Leucorrhoea [white discharge] is acrid, burning, itching, with rawness. It is worse at night • The breasts may be painful; they may ulcerate, during every menstrual period. There may sometimes be a ‘vicarious’ presentation — milk in breast, instead of monthly periods.

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 | OCTOBER 2014

MEDICAL MARVELS: LITTLE PILLS, BIG RESULTS

Thyroid Harmonised By Dr BHAVNEET KAUR, BHMS, Chandigarh

mrit Kaur visited our clinic, complaining of thyroid problems along with progressive vitiligo [white patches]. While taking her case history, we realised that she was emotionally disturbed due to a family dispute and was having a tough time resolving frequent quarrels between her kith and kin. She said she had to go through a lot of embarrassment during social functions too because of insulting remarks made about the family. Some people kept showing, at the same time, ‘pretended sympathy,’ as she put it, without suggesting any solution to her medical or other problems. Her health worsened dayby-day. As a result, she became increasingly livid and anxious. She reported of significant weight loss too. She was diagnosed with hyperthyroidism [overactive thyroid], a condition in which the thyroid gland produces and secretes excessive amounts of free thyroid hormones — triiodothyronine [T3] and/or thyroxine [T4]. The thyroid hormone is important as it impacts

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nearly every type of tissue in the body. It functions as a ‘controller’ of the pace of all of the processes in the body. This tempo is called the metabolic rate. Some of the symptoms of hyperthyroidism are nervousness, irritability, a racy heart, hand tremors, anxiety, difficulty in sleeping, thinning of skin, brittle hair, and muscular weakness — especially in the upper arms and thighs — frequent bowel movements, weight loss, despite good appetite, menstrual problems in women, and so on. We prescribed her the homeopathic remedy Natrum Muriaticum 200C. In a span of 4-5 months of homeopathic treatment her symptoms improved. The treatment not only helped her tide over her medical condition, but also enabled her to regain her cheerful mood gradually. She is now more relaxed and receptive. She has gained 14kg of weight, along with a significant improvement in her skin condition [vitiligo].

Dr Batras’ Foundation, the philanthropic arm of Dr Batra’s, is the altruistic initiative of Founder & Chairman, Dr Mukesh Batra, a homeopath of international repute. The Foundation [Estd. July 2001] extends compassion with empathetic caring for the needy and the disadvantaged. The Foundation has, so far, reached out to thousands of people across the country.

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The Foundation is based on the 1% formula. Put simply, 1% of the company’s net profit as well as every rupee accrued from voluntary contributions from Dr Batra’s employees’ go to the Foundation. The funds are used 100% for charity, with zeroadministrative cost. Vision: 1. Promote good health through homeopathy. 2. Encourage homeopathic education. 3. Support the underprivileged. 4. Care for animals

Dandruff Respite By Dr SMITA SHINDE, BHMS, Thane

ejal, a seventeen-year old girl, visited our clinic with her parents for scaly dandruff since 3-4 years. Her parents emphasised the fact that despite taking regular conventional [allopathic] treatment, her dandruff problem had not responded. All she experienced was temporary relief, with a quick return of the scaly distress. Sejal suffered from seborrhoeic dermatitis [dandruff]. Seborrhoeic dermatitis is a condition majorly affecting the scalp. Also known as seborrhoeic eczema, the symptoms appear gradually with the first signs being a flaky skin and scalp. Apart from flakes on the scalp, hair, eyebrows, beard or moustache [in men], other symptoms include patches of greasy skin, covered with flaky white or yellow scales, or crusts, on the scalp, a ‘fiery’ skin and itching or stinging. Though seborrhoeic dermatitis does not affect the overall health of the individual and is not generally contagious, it may often be uncomfortable and socially embarrassing. Effective homeopathic treatment depends on what the underlying cause of dandruff is. Sometimes, one may need several repeated treatments before the

Mission: To Expand the Sunshine Smile [SSS] • The Foundation conducts 68 free clinics across India, providing free of charge homeopathic treatment for the needy, every month • Provides Dr Mukesh Batra scholarship for homeopathic education to needy students • Conducts free health camps for NGOs. The Foundation reached out to over 8,000 people, and spent over Rs 1 crore to help them, last year. It aims to reach out to over 15,000 people, this year. You too can be a part of the Foundation and its good work. You’d kindly contribute your time, or assistance in cash or kind, to support the noble cause. Join the joy-of-giving crusade to make someone smile, TODAY! This will help to spread the Sunshine Smile… to more and more people… For further details, please call: 0-93208 16431. E: larissa.dmello@drbatras.com / pearl.vadukoot@drbatras.com — to be a part, or to donate.

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HOMEOPATHY & YOU | OCTOBER 2014

symptoms go away. After analysing Sejal’s case history, her symptomportrait and temperament, we prescribed her the homeopathic remedy, Calcarea Silicata 200C, along with Kali Sulphuricum 200C. Following 3-4 months of homeopathic treatment, she got better. Her itching reduced; there were no signs of dandruff on her scalp. Her parents are extremely happy that her dandruff has not returned, even after the treatment was stopped.

Scaled Progress By Dr HARISH NAGAOKAR, BHMS, Mumbai

raised scaly patches on the entire scalp and can spread to the forehead, including the back of the neck and ears. Though not contagious, it can be awkward for the individual or patient due to visible dandruff flakes and constant itching. After analysing his symptoms and medical history, we prescribed him the homeopathy remedy Natrum Muriaticum 200C. After 6-8 months of treatment, most of his symptoms disappeared. We recommended him routine maintenance like regular wash with a mild shampoo, covering the head with a scarf before going out in sun, for a while. The symptoms never came back. Raghav is now extremely happy, as he no longer is subject to embarrassing dandruff-related discussions at social events.

Dermatitis Dealt With By Dr RITESH AGRAWAL, BHMS, Indore

orty-year-old Raghav visited our clinic for homeopathic treatment of psoriasis of the scalp. He complained of a dry scalp, with silvery scales, flaking and itching. Plagued with the condition since three years, Raghav had tried conventional [allopathic] treatment, a host of medicated shampoos and herbal treatments as well. However, none of the treatments provided any longterm solution. His scaly scalp and itching reoccurred with a vengeance as soon as the medications or applications were stopped. Raghav was diagnosed with sebopsoriasis, an overlap between psoriasis and another skin condition called seborrhoeic dermatitis. This is a common inflammatory condition. It presents as red or silvery,

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wenty-two-year-old Sudha had ‘suffered from a skin problem’ diagnosed as asteatotic dermatitis [eczema]. Her complaints, she reported, first started when she was just one month old. When she visited our clinic for homeopathic treatment, she had eruptions on her elbows, ankles and neck. Her eruptions would start off with extreme dryness of skin. This was followed by cracks in the skin, bleeding, oozing and extreme itching. Winter would give her nightmares, whereas the ‘warmth’ of summer gave some respite from her itchy distress. During case analysis, Sudha reported that she had a ‘greater than before’ appetite. She said that she loved sour, salty, spicy foods as well as cakes and ice-cream. Her sweat, she reported, emitted an offensive odour. Sudha stayed with her parents and was emotionally attached to her father. She was extremely depressed due to her skin problem. It made her anxious — she would wonder if she’d ever be ‘cured’ of it. Being a part of social circles gave her jitters; hence, she had isolated herself from social interactions. Her allergy test had clearly showed that she was ‘allergic’ to more than 30-35 offending ‘agents.’ Her immunoglobulin-E [IgE] was also high. This confirmed the ‘allergic state’ of her skin. We prescribed her Graphites 200C, based on her clinical history and symptom-picture. The results were visible in the first 5-6 months itself. Her eczematous patches on the neck cleared up completely –– something that had never happened before. The healing was, however, relatively slow on her elbows and ankles. At the end of one year of homeopathic treatment, Sudha was delighted with the outcome. She remarked, “This is the first time I feel that I too have a life!”

HOW HOMEOPATHY HELPED ME

Hair Loss Reversed

had lost all hope of getting back my hair since I was suffering from hair loss for years. I had tried several treatments, but nothing seemed to control my impulse of pulling out my own hair, as it were. My confidence levels came down due to this. My entire family was depressed with my complaint. As a last resort, I thought of homeopathy. Dr Heena handled my case and put me on treatment, following a complete case analysis. She also advised me to take the medicines she gave me regularly, along with a healthy, balanced diet and exercise. I have been on homeopathic treatment for six months now. I am excited to find my hair growth back again. I am grateful to Dr Heena for her excellent treatment. — A Mohammed, a patient of Dr Heena, BHMS, Hyderabad

Freedom From Excessive Sweating

was suffering from excessive sweating for 15-20 years. I was diagnosed with problems ranging from anxiety to hyperthyroidism. I took several treatments, but nothing worked. One of my friends who had the same problem [hyperhidrosis] told me that the only possible cure was homeopathy. I met Dr Vishal Katoch. He listened to me with utmost patience, took my detailed case history, and ‘recorded’ my temperament and personality. I have been taking homeopathic treatment prescribed by him since the last ten months; my sweating has reduced considerably. I also feel emotionally confident and physically at ease with myself now, thanks to Dr Katoch’s homeopathic treatment. — J Bairagi, a patient of Dr Vishal Katoch, BHMS, Bengaluru

Editor’s Note: Readers/patients are advised to be regular while taking homeopathic treatment as it helps for a proper analysis of the efficacy, or otherwise, of the remedy administered.

HOMEOPATHY & YOU | OCTOBER 2014

YOUR LITTLE BOX: HomeopatHic Kit FoR eveRy Home

DULCAMARA: MORE THAN A ‘WEATHER’ REMEDY the homeopathic remedy, Dulcamara, is usually prescribed for individuals who are sensitive to cold and damp, with symptoms triggered by sudden, or swift, temperature changes and cold, wet weather. By Dr SEJAL PAREKAR

he ancient Romans used Dulcamara plant to treat a broad array of ailments. What made Dulcamara a household name was its proven effectiveness in treating abscesses, or felons [painful pus-like infection at the end of a finger or toe in the area surrounding the nail]. Hence, its popular name, ‘felonwort’ — the ability to treat felons on one’s fingertips. Carl Linnaeus, the 18th-century naturalist, prescribed the plant to treat cascading fever and inflammatory conditions, including infections. The homeopathic remedy was proved by Dr Samuel Hahnemann, MD, the founder of homeopathy. He preferred to employ it on sick individuals, who were highly vulnerable to damp weather and chills. The homeopathic Dulcamara is prepared using the fresh green leaves and stems of the bittersweet plant, also known as bitter nightshade. It is prescribed to treat a host of ailments — joint problems, skin conditions and disorders that involve or revolve around the mucous membranes. The homeopathic symptom-picture of Dulcamara includes physical factors that overshadow emotional or psychological qualities, even when the individual presents with a certain bewilderment. Or, bad temper, impatience, and restlessness, accompanied by a domineering intent, or mind-set — most notably towards their own family or loved ones. Dulcamara is also represented by a high level of susceptibility to respiratory infections — infections that cause thick, yellow mucous. Hay fever [nasal allergy] and other allergic sensitivity or responses are also common, so also head and joint pain, atopic dermatitis [eczema], and tummy upsets [diarrhoea]. BRONCHITIS The Dulcamara sore throat is characterised by a thick, yellow discharge from the nose and eyes. There may often be a thick mucous discharge, primarily because of cold and/or sinusitis, as may be sinus headache, or painful pressure and congestion in the head. A stiff neck is common, along with backache and pain in the limbs. There may also be red eyes [conjunctivitis], a rattling cough, bronchitis, or pneumonia. Symptoms are better by warmth, dry, established weather and movement. Symptoms are worse by cold, damp weather and at night. Dr Sejal Parekar, BHMS, is a Mumbai-based homeopath.

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DIARRHOEA Stools that are slimy, yellow or green with traces of blood often respond to the remedy. There may be nausea and pain before passing stools. Diarrhoea during the so-called ‘teething’ stage in children. Symptoms are better by warmth and movement. Symptoms are worse by cold or dampness, and by rest or relaxation. HAY FEVER & ASTHMA Nasal congestion, with profuse, watery discharge from the eyes and repressed breathing is a characteristic symptom. Allergies, especially allergic asthmatic episodes, caused by exposure to animal dander, grass pollen, dust mites, and other allergens. Symptoms are better by warmth, dry, established weather and movement. Symptoms are worse by cold, damp weather and at night. HEAD & FACE PAIN Dulcamara individuals present with pain in a specific part of the head. They may also complain of a sensation of heaviness, nausea, or confusion. Sinus headache and neuralgic face pain are common. Dulcamara is useful in Bell’s palsy [facial paralysis], triggered by damp, cold drafts. Symptoms are better by dry, fine weather, keeping still, expelling phlegm, or mucous. Symptoms are worse by damp and cold weather. JOINT PAIN Dulcamara has stiffness and pain in joints. Pain is often aggravated by dampness and/or change of weather. Symptoms are better by warmth and movement. Symptoms are worse from cold, dampness, extremes of temperature and also idleness. SKIN DISORDERS Dulcamara is useful when there is a thickened, crusty, itchy skin, most notably on the scalp. The affected area may bleed when scratched. Dulcamara is effective for urticaria [hives] brought on by sweating in humid conditions. It also treats large, flat, smooth warts, especially on the face and palms of the hands. It is effective for scalp ringworm in children. Symptoms are better by warmth and dry weather. Symptoms are worse from cold, damp weather and before periods in women. Dosage. Dulcamara 30C, 4-5 pills, twice daily, or as prescribed, or advised, by your homeopathic doctor.

CHILD HEALTH

ASSIMILATORY DISORDERS & HOMEOPATHY The rising incidence of assimilatory disorders in children is a cause for concern. Homeopathy treats such health issues, safely and effectively, in contrast to the conventional medical approach of merely easing their symptoms.

By Dr PANKAJ AGGARWAL

t is imperative to differentiate between malnutrition and malassimilation. The former results from eating a diet in which nutrients are just not enough. The later refers to the inability of the gastrointestinal tract to use nutrients from the diet. The presentation of symptoms in either may not be similar, but they often differ in terms of their cause and treatment. Malassimilation is primarily due to — • Difficulty in digesting nutrients [maldigestion] • Impaired absorption of nutrients [malabsorption] Clinically, the two may be categorised into several distinct conditions — for instance, congenital, such as birth defects, related to the stomach, gall bladder and

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liver — or, acquired, like celiac disease [autoimmune disorder of the small intestine], infection and injury. They are, in unison, called paediatric malabsorption syndrome. FOOD ALLERGY & FOOD INTOLERANCE A food allergy is characterised by antibodies formed to ‘combat’ the foodstuff in the blood. This can cause severe reactions. Food intolerance may be a result of a number of functional imbalances in the system, including, for instance, lactose intolerance, caused by the lack of the enzyme, lactase, which allows the gut to process lactose sugar. A true allergy does not necessarily cause

imbalance [dysbiosis] in the bowel nor does bowel dysbiosis necessarily tip over into true allergy. However, food intolerance and bowel dysbiosis could be a direct cause of each other and vice versa. Food intolerance is also a reproducible adverse reaction to a specific food ingredient — this may, or may not, be psychologically evident. Food allergy is a form of food intolerance in which there is evidence that the response caused by an immunological reaction to food is diagnosed — more so, on the basis of several allergy tests available. SYMPTOMS Food intolerance tends to be chronic, less acute and difficult to diagnose than food allergy. The symptoms often vary. • General. Fatigue, joint pains, dark circles under the eyes and night sweats • Gastrointestinal. Mouth ulcers, bloating, abdominal pain, nausea and vomiting, intermittent diarrhoea and/ or constipation and irritable bowel syndrome [IBS] • Skin. Rashes and eczema • Respiratory. Nasal congestion, cough, sinusitis and asthma.

between substances that are part of the body and those harmful to it. The immune system is particularly active on the surface of the body, at the orifices and in the digestive tract, because it is from here that it encounters the highest proportion of alien substances. Dr Samuel Hahnemann, MD, the founder of homeopathy, proposed a theory of predisposition in heredity, through which the child inherits its parents’ predisposition to certain conditions, such as allergy. The realisation that the body is allergic can trigger a vicious cycle — one that exacerbates symptoms. Psychoneuroimmunology [PNI], a new field of study, explains how our emotions affect our body and, in the process, the immune system. Therefore, a medicine, as homeopaths observe, that only addresses physical symptoms and ignores their psychological effect will not work. You, as parents, ought to know, understand and be involved in the overall treatment process for your child’s optimal wellness to be achieved. HOMEOPATHY FOR FOOD INTOLERANCE Homeopathy often helps and treats food intolerance, safely and effectively. Symptoms usually wane with professional homeopathic treatment. This is in sharp contrast to the conventional medical approach of merely eliminating the offending food, or factor, or using digestive enzymes. Homeopathic treatment enables your child to get rid of symptoms by removing the cause. The remedy given is specific to your child and their set of symptoms, and not merely to treat one on the surface but from the inside out. MALASSIMILATION IN INFANTS There are innumerable theories as to why infants vomit or have one health issue or condition or another. The

MEDICAL DIAGNOSIS You could eliminate chronic symptoms and the suffering they cause by identifying and eliminating certain offending foods and ingredients from your child’s diet. But, it is not always easy to identify the offending food. This is because the effects of food intolerance are delayed. You may remove a certain food from their diet, observe if symptoms improve and, thereafter, try to reintroduce the food. If symptoms return, intolerance is likely. HOMEOPATHY & ALLERGY An allergy is an inappropriate response of the immune system that protects the body from foreign organisms. It is a sophisticated system that has to differentiate

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underlying basis of homeopathic thought is that symptoms are a response of the organism to deal with infection, or some type of internally or externally derived stress. Symptoms also represent the best efforts the body is channelising to defending and healing it. As a matter of fact, the inappropriate, sometimes inadequate, treatment of fever and cold in infants, is suggested to trigger teething problems — a major cause for malassimilation in infants. A large group of paediatricians were recently surveyed as to what they do for teething infants. Most, it was reported, prescribed medications, usually pain-killers of varying strengths, sedatives and local anaesthetics — a dangerous potion. It is certainly understandable that parents would want to do something to allay their infants’ distress during the so-called teething stage. Besides tooth pain and drooling that infants suffer from, they also often have fever, bowel problems, usually diarrhoea, or constipation alternating with diarrhoea, colds, and skin rashes. It is also certainly understandable that physicians who see such infants, including frightened and concerned parents would want to do something. Homeopathy offers an effective alternative to problems associated with children’s disorders, including teething that parents will inevitably look for. The homeopathic remedy Chamomilla has probably introduced more parents to homeopathy than any other homeopathic medicine. It is not the only remedy that homeopaths prescribe to treat teething though — but, it is also the most commonly used and generally recommended, unless the infant’s symptoms clearly indicate the need for a different remedy. The most common symptoms for infants who need Chamomilla are irritability, inflamed gums, drooling, and a desire to keep their fingers in the mouth. Or, the classical sign: one cheek is hot and red, while the other is pale. What takes the cake are not just physical symptoms, but

emotional and behavioural changes. The infants may scream and hit. They may demand things but reject them as soon as they are given. During sleep, they toss and turn and may cry aloud. The only relief they experience is when they are being carried about, or rocked. This description no doubt would sound familiar to parents. Other homeopathic remedies for teething infants are Podophyllum, Belladonna, Calcarea Phosphoricum, Calcarea Carbonicum and Coffea, depending on the symptom-picture. It is imperative that you speak to a professional homeopath for the appropriate remedy and dosage, irrespective of the fact that homeopathic remedies are safe and free of side-effects. It may also be emphasised that homeopathic doctors encourage proper diet and lifestyle, more so with the goal of homeopathic treatment being keyed to allow your child to eat just about anything and be happy and healthy. HOMEOPATHIC REMEDIES FOR FOOD INTOLERANCE/ALLERGY • Intolerance to oysters. Lycopodium • Intolerance to fatty foods. Pulsatilla • Intolerance to ice-cream and cakes. Pulsatilla • Intolerance to onion and garlic. Lycopodium • Intolerance to fruits. China • Intolerance to milk. Magnesia Carbonicum • Intolerance to fish. Sepia Officinalis • Intolerance to chocolate. Lycopodium • Intolerance to eggs. Pulsatilla • Intolerance to potatoes. Alumina • Intolerance to farinaceous [high-starch] foods. Natrum Muriaticum, Natrum Sulphuricum, Lycopodium and Nux Vomica. NB: Speak to your professional homeopathic doctor for the appropriate remedy, treatment, duration, and dosages.

Dr Pankaj Aggarwal, MD [Hom], is a New Delhi-based senior homeopath and academician.

HOMEOPATHY & YOU | OCTOBER 2014

DOCTOR’S ORDERS

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

I am a thirty-year-old salesman. I have been troubled by lumbar spondylitis for some time. I use a two-wheeler for my field work. Please suggest a remedy. Lumbar spondylitis is a degenerative disorder. In the condition, the lumbar spine loses its flexibility. This causes lower back pain, stiffness, tingling and numbness. Avoid slouching and bending. Avoid lifting heavy loads too. Exercise regularly, so that the back remains supple. However, restrict exercise when you have acute pain. Sleep on a firm mattress. You may use hot and cold fomentation too; it may help. Avoid riding a twowheeler, if possible — this could help. I’d recommend you to take the homeopathic remedy, Rhus Toxicodendron 30C, 4-5 pills, twice daily. Consult an orthopaedician, if your symptoms persist.

Q A

of conventional antidepressants. It is a proven fact that men who smoke cigarettes run increased risk of erectile dysfunction. According to a study conducted by Tulane University, US, and published in The American Journal of Epidemiology, the more cigarettes smoked, the greater the risk. The first thing you should aim at is to quit smoking, lose weight, and relax with yoga or meditation. I’d also suggest that you take the homeopathic remedy, Lycopodium 30C, 4-5 pills, once daily. Please let me know your progress. I pass a little urine every time I cough or sneeze. This is annoying, even distressing, at times. Is there a homeopathic remedy that I should take for long-term relief? You are suffering from a condition called stress urinary incontinence. Whenever you sneeze, cough, or strain to pass stools, the build-up in the intra-abdominal pressure causes urine to escape in spurts. This is usually caused because of weakened urethral sphincter muscles, or a problem with the nerve supplying the area. You should make conscious efforts to hold back when you get the urge to void urine. You’d, at the same time, take the homeopathic remedy, Causticum 30C, 4-5 pills, twice daily. The remedy is evidenced to stimulate the nerves and strengthen the sphincter muscles. Please let me know your progress.

My wife is two months pregnant. She has severe morning sickness. Please advice. Morning sickness [hyperemesis gravidarum] is a common complaint during pregnancy. It doesn’t affect the baby unless the weight loss is excessive. The exact cause of morning sickness is unknown; it is suggested to be caused by hormonal changes or low blood sugar levels during early pregnancy. A simple snack before going to bed and immediately on waking up could be useful. Smaller, but frequent meals would also be better than large, spaced-out meals. Fatty food is best avoided. Eating citrus fruits can reduce nausea to an extent. You’d give Do you have a health your wife the homeopathic remedy, question? Need an answer? Amygdalus Persicans 30C, 4-5 pills, E-mail your health twice daily.

I am a forty-year-old marketing professional suffering from erectile dysfunction. I smoke a lot. Can homeopathy help? Erectile dysfunction, or impotence, is the repeated inability to get or keep erection firm enough for sexual intercourse. The causes could be certain diseases, smoking, being overweight, stress and the [mis]use

questions to: expertadvice@ homeopathyandyou.com Renowned homeopath Dr Mukesh Batra will answer your questions.

I’m 28. I feel awkward with my excess sweating on my scalp and face, so much so my pillow gets soaked in sweat. I sweat when I’m sitting, or even after a shower. Any physical activity also brings in a fresh burst of sweat. I am also prone to dull, aching headaches. I have been taking thyroid medications that my physician has prescribed for a while. Please help. I do not know if you have undergone medical investigations to rule out certain causes, if any, for your sweating distress. Your headache suggests of migraine, or tension headache — this too needs to be evaluated by a physician. In the meanwhile, you’d take Sambucus Nigra 200C, 4-5 pills, twice daily. Please keep your physician updated about your health status. This is necessary.

HOMEOPATHY & YOU | OCTOBER 2014

HOMEOPATHIC HAPPENINGS

URGE WIKIPEDIA TO CORRECT HOMEOPATHY’S ENTRY

s most people who love homeopathy are aware, Wikipedia’s entry on homeopathy does not accurately define, or represent, the natural, holistic system of medicine [http://en.wikipedia.org/ wiki/Homeopathy]. In several places the entry provides incorrect information, uses biased references, and negative thoughts and feelings rather than scientific evidence of the effectiveness and safety of homeopathy. As a growing number of people rely on Wikipedia for information, especially as a first source about a topic, the ‘skewed’ entry on homeopathy gives readers misinformed, negatively biased impressions about homeopathy. It also most likely dissuades other people from trying it. Wikipedia’s stated mission is to allow for free and collective exchange of information. It prides itself in providing either unbiased information or either sides of

HOMEOPATHY IS NANOMEDICINE

paper published by medical scientists, Iris Bell, and G E Schwartz in The Frontiers of Biosciences, ‘Adaptive Network Nanomedicine: An integrated Model for Homeopathic Medicine,’ presents an evidence-based blueprint for the nature and mode of action of homeopathic remedies. The paper says that recent studies reveal that homeopathic remedies contain nanoparticles [NPs] of source materials formed by ‘top-down’ mechanical grinding in lactose and/or succussion [forceful agitation] in ethanolic solutions. Silica nanostructures formed during succussions in glass and/or biosynthesised by specific plant extract tinctures, as Bell and Schwartz observe, could also acquire and convey epitaxial information from remedy source materials into higher potencies [dilutions]. NPs have enhanced bioavailability, adsorptive capabilities, electromagnetic and quantum properties compared with their bulk forms and boost the performance of the medicine. NPs induce adaptive changes in the organism at non-toxic doses [hormesis], serving as salient, low level danger signals to the biological stress

a topic, even if it be controversial, whenever possible. However, in direct contrast, or sharp deviation, from its mission, Wikipedia has steadfastly refused to update information on homeopathy on the page with current research studies, or unbiased information, and disabled the editing of the page. The National Center of Homeopathy [NCH], US, has encouraged its members, supporters, and all users of homeopathy to sign its Change.org petition to Wikipedia, demanding that they update the page to provide accurate, unbiased information. The NCH has urged homeopathic supporters to feel free to share the following link with one’s extended networks too: http://www.homeopathycenter. org/news/petition-wikipedia-%E2%80%93-correcthomeopathy%E2%80%99s-entry Spare a moment. It will sure bring about a healthy change.

HOMEOPATHY & YOU | OcTObEr 2014

response network. Activation of stress response effectors — including heat shock proteins, inflammasomes [large intracellular multiprotein complexes that play a central role in innate immunity], cytokines [small proteins that are important in cell signalling] and neuroendocrine [cells that receive neuronal input] pathways — as the paper reports, initiate beneficial compensatory reactions across the interconnected networks of the organism [individual] as a complex adaptive system. The paper observes that homeopathic remedies act by stimulating hormetic [a beneficial effect induced by exposure to low doses of an agent that is otherwise toxic or lethal when given at higher doses] adaptive rather than conventional pharmacological effects. Updating terminology from ‘homeopathy’ to ‘adaptive network nanomedicine’ [ANN], as Bell and Schwartz summarise, reflects the integration of this historical [controversial to sceptics] medical system with modern scientific findings.

HOMEOPATHY: EFFECTIVE MEDICINE FOR CHRONIC SINUSITIS

A H&Y ADVERTSING INITIATIVE

study published in Homeopathy to ascertain the therapeutic usefulness of homeopathic remedies in the management of chronic sinusitis [CS], reports that homeopathic treatment may be effective for CS patients, although more controlled trials are required for further validation. A multicentre observational study, conducted by Nayak C, Singh V, et al, at institutes and units of the Central Council for Research in Homeopathy [CCRH], New Delhi, India, assessed symptoms, using the chronic sinusitis assessment score [CSAS]. 17 pre-defined homeopathic medicines were shortlisted for prescription on the basis of repertorisation for the pathological symptoms of CS. Regimes, and adjustment of regimes in the event of a change of symptoms, were also pre-defined. The followup period was for six months. Statistical analysis was

also done. 628 patients suffering from CS confirmed on X-ray were enrolled from eight institutes and units of CCRH. All 550 patients with at least one follow-up assessment were analysed. There was a statistically significant reduction in CSAS [P = 0.0001, Friedman test] after three and six months of treatment. Radiological appearances also improved. A total of 13 out of 17 pre-defined medicines were prescribed in 550 patients, Silicea [55.2 per cent of 210], Calcarea [62.5 per cent of 98], Lycopodium [69 per cent of 55], Phosphorus [66.7 per cent of 45] and Kali Iodum [65 per cent of 40] were found to be most useful and with marked improvement. 4/17 medicines were never prescribed. No complications were observed during treatment.

VET HOMEOPATHY @ DR BATRA’S STATE-OF-THE ART PET CARE HOSPITAL, YUSUF SARAI, NEW DELHI HOMEOPATHY: YOUR PET’S BEST FRIEND

By Dr SHALLY, BVSc & AH, MVSc [Surgery & Radiology]

ur state-of-the-art homeopathic vet hospital offers a wide range of services — from blood tests and X-ray to vaccination, grooming, homeopathic treatment and a pet shop. One of our prized features is the bathtub in the pet grooming centre that functions with hydraulic lifts — a system where the tub can go up and down for pets to climb in and get out of them easily. We treat all kinds of health issues in pets — from skin disease, such as warts and atopic dermatitis [eczema] to parvo, distemper, rabies, gastroenteritis, anaemia, worms, tick fever, and tumours [cancer]. Cancer in animals is primarily caused by the consumption of branded imported food and preservatives. All species and all types of animals respond well to homeopathic treatment — from cats and dogs to farm animals, from horses and ponies to wild animals, from cow, buffalo to goats and from birds and reptiles to fish. Only recently, a pet lover found an abandoned pup whimpering in a by-lane. Taking a closer look, she found it was sick and bleeding and about to die. She promptly brought him to our hospital. We gave the pup a vaccine shot and homeopathic treatment for its tick fever. The pup is back on its feet and looking much healthier. The popularity of veterinary homeopathy is growing, primarily because of the bad effects of powerful conventional [allopathic] medicines, especially antibiotics — which have not only led to drug resistance,

but also drug-induced diseases [iatrogenic disorders] in pet and farm animals. As a matter of fact, organic farmers rely upon homeopathy, especially in Europe, and also in our country, as an effective and safe system of medicine which does not give rise to drug residues in meat, milk or eggs. Among other advantages, especially in farm animals, is the fact that homeopathy cannot provoke ‘antibiotic resistance’ in bacterial populations. 50 years ago, no major scientific or experimental research was conducted to establish homeopathy’s effectiveness in a scientific, clinical setting. This has now changed. Dozens of clinical research papers are being published, on a regular basis, across the world, showing the extensive clinical benefits of this simple, safe, holistic and effective therapy. We are keyed to promote vet homeopathy and expand it rapidly — as first-aid, first-line, complementary, integrated, or also as ‘last-choice’ medicine — because, homeopathic treatment, given to pets, and other animals, is not only effective, but also free of side-effects For appointments, contact: T: [011]-4269 4800/M: 0-93805 80808 E: info@drbatraspetcare.com Website: www.drbatraspetcare.com

HOMEOPATHY & YOU | OcTObEr 2014

WHAT LIES BENEATH: MYSTERIES OF HOMEOPATHY

HOMEOPATHY: MEDICINE OF DYNAMIC BALANCE Homeopathy considers illness, or disease, as a result of certain inherent or ‘acquired’ ‘chinks’ in the individual’s mind, body or physiological armour. It aims to correct such deviations to bring about dynamic, harmonious and healthy balance. By Dr RAjgOPAL NIDAMBOOR

llness or disease, in homeopathic parlance, is evidenced to be the result of inherent or developed ‘chinks’ in the individual’s mind, body or physiological armour, including their defence mechanisms. This imbalance is the ‘trigger’ that first creates our susceptibility to morbid, or abnormal, influences and illness states. To cull some examples — environmental pollution or toxicity, viruses and bacteria, psychological, or emotional pressures, or stresses, at work or home. The whole idea relates to what is called the ‘vitalistic’ theory. The hypothesis includes the physical reality or material cause of illness. It also, at the same time, envelops the likely, underlying pathology as the focal point, more so in the composite web of mind-body interface, or relationship. It is agreed that the whole idea of vitalism has had its set of critics as regards the cause, or causal approach to illness, that currently dominates the clinical practice of modern medicine. As William Boyd, MD, MRCP, a noted pathologist, distils the ‘doctrine,’ in A Textbook of Pathology, “We must admit, however unwillingly, that we seldom or never really know the cause of anything. Many a beautiful idea has been slain by ugly fact. We merely note a constant association with one thing always following another. We say that the tubercle bacillus is the cause of tuberculosis. That is merely another way of saying that

HOMEOPATHY & YOU | OcTObEr 2014

the bacillus is associated with a constant type of lesion; it is no explanation of how the lesions are produced by the bacillus. [Nor does it explain] why some persons and animals are susceptible to the infection while others are immune.” Vitalism should preferably be construed, or understood, from its foundations during Hahnemann’s era. It was a time agog with numerous theories regarding the cause of illness or disease and its treatment. To cull a few examples — the classification of medicinal drugs, based on the ancient Roman physician Dioscorides’ theory of functional or physiological action [e.g., diuresis, or increased flow of urine], not to speak of the ‘chemical’ composition of drugs. Galen, the Greek physician, surgeon and philosopher in ancient Rome, also dominated medical science with his principle — that the secondary or derivative quality of a medicine, in terms of its action on disease, could be ascertained from its primary or principal qualities, especially with its taste, or odour. This was further characterised by the assessment of medicines along with their interactions when mixed with human blood in a jar, or bottle. What was also in vogue was the mediaeval Swiss physician and botanist Paracelsus’ teachings regarding the clinical application of herbal tinctures, oils, or metals, not

to speak of his famed ‘doctrine of signatures,’ which held the view that the outer form and colour of a plant revealed its inner, or representative medicinal action. Plants with yellow roots or flowers [yellow signature], for instance, were suggested to be useful for yellow fever [jaundice]. Plants with colour red [red signature] were, likewise, found to be ‘helpful’ for blood disorders. HAHNEMANN’S RATIONALE Dr Samuel Hahnemann, MD, the legendary medical experimenter and founder of homeopathy, refined the essence of it all and gradually transformed the face of medicine. Hahnemann suggested, argued, formulated and deciphered that the drugs or medicines used, during the time, probably had different effects on human beings in health and illness. He contended that some animals, such as pigs, could safely munch Nux Vomica [nutmeg] in quantities that would be fatal to human subjects. Other animals, such as dogs, to cull another example, could ‘chomp’ Aconitum Napellus [monk’s-hood], a lethal poison to human beings, without ado, or fear of fatal effects. He was right. Hahnemann’s sublime reasoning led him to reject the then prevalent routine of testing drugs by studying their effects, through trial and error, on the sick as slapdash, defective, and uncertain. More so, since the results elicited highlighted purely symptomatic relief. It seldom led to the annihilation, or extinction, of the illness or disease from the inside out. He, therefore, introduced medicinal testing on healthy human beings, or subjects, and employing them in sick individuals, for the first time in medical history — in his idiom, prufüng, or ‘proving,’ the foundation of the homeopathic ‘like cures like’ treatment. As Dr Andrew Lange, a wellness physician and author, puts it succinctly, “Hahnemann actually redefined the application of natural medicines with a sense of rationale” never before incarnate. He promulgated the sublime idea to alter the body’s functioning, or physiology, with a ‘like’ remedy. This, he evidenced, would act as a rival to disease, unlike the practice of ‘allopathy’ [‘allo’ meaning ‘contrary’ in Greek], or conventional medicine. You get the point. The conventional [allopathic] medical system, or modern medicine, as it is practiced today, is heavily loaded in favour of the ‘causalistic’ paradigms. It clearly emphasises the pivotal role of diagnosis without which no appropriate treatment, or outcome, can be initiated. In other words, this is the pharmacologic approach. It is not all-inclusive. It is narrowed down to the end result of the illness or disease, not so much on the cause or the source of pathology, the basic ‘anatomy’ of a given, or not given, illness. What, therefore, emerges, aside from the allopathic therapeutic effects, is labelled as ‘unwanted side-effects,’ because the primary action of the pharmaceutical agent is aimed to only treat a specific illness, or disease — as ascribed to a specific, or non-specific, diagnosis. What does this connote? That

conventional medicine is far too focused on the primary effects of a prescribed drug, while its physiological, as well as mind-body, or psychological effects are overlooked, sometimes even disregarded in favour of positive, ‘controllable’ clinical outcomes. This is in sharp contrast with the homeopathic principle, tenet, or philosophy of medicinal action or treatment, and not just intervention. For a homeopath, the side-effects are a significant element of the medicinal agent’s action and the body’s physiological [functional] response to it. This again helps them to ascertain, instead of discounting them — not because a medicinal substance’s range of action is to a certain extent limited, but because it allows one to determine its toxic effects in order to make it a safe, effective remedy, in diluted dosages, in a ‘like’ illness. SMALL, BIg MEDICINE Hahnemann’s landmark, experimental investigations not only led to a whole new application of diluted natural remedies, but provided a rational, safe technique for amalgamating the physical, mental, and emotional effects of a given medicinal substance. What his empirical observations resulted is now part of the annals of medical literature. His seminal work also took medical science and treatment to a new level — leading to the establishment of safe, effectual therapeutic parameters keyed to treat the totality of the patient’s symptoms, including their ‘remedyand-personality’ types and vice versa. Hahnemann regarded illness or disease as nothing but the optimistic expression of the body’s self-regulatory processes in response to environmental or other stressors. He reiterated that illness or disease is not unintentional; it is somewhat the outcome of the effort of the human mechanism to deflect deeper, inner chaos or disorder. He also observed that such a natural, innate response was the instinctive wisdom of the body — in modern thought this is exemplified as the natural ability of the body to maintain homeostasis, or optimal balance. You get the point. Any heroic or enforced medical interference, therefore, as conventional medicine uses — unless warranted in lifethreatening medical conditions — acts in opposition to, or disagreement with, the body’s vital intracellular and extracellular regulatory, or physiological, functions. Homeopathy, as Dr Lange again quantifies, is a method of specific induction of non-specific resistance — a form of treatment that stimulates our inherent defence and self-regulatory mechanisms, rather than by taking over a function of the body, without initiating a major dependency on the medicine, or remedy, itself. When you add homeopathy’s inherent capacity for addressing psychosomatic disease, or illness, including acute pathology as a dynamic process, it brings home nature’s own healing concepts of unity, balance, resonance, constitution, and personality. The result is obvious — safe, effective treatment results, or outcomes.

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

HOMEOPATHY & YOU | OcTObEr 2014

HOM[E]O TRUTHS

HOMEOPATHY & PREGNANCY:

HOLISTIC EFFICACY

Homeopathy is ideal medicine for infants, children and pregnant women. Conventional medicine could have possible side-effects for both the mother and child, while homeopathy effectively addresses common problems that women face during and after pregnancy without side-effects. By KAVITA NADKARNI

regnancy is an important milestone in the life of any woman. Women undergo several physiological as well as psychological changes during the process, or confinement; this can sometimes be extremely stressful to the body. Furthermore, the mother’s health significantly affects the health of the foetus. It is, therefore, natural for pregnant women to feel anxious, especially during their first pregnancy. Some women experience undue anxiety and fear of many things, which includes the avoidance of taking conventional [allopathic] medicines for health issues or problems during pregnancy. Some women are sceptical about using homeopathy remedies, due to the misconception in certain quarters that homeopathy may affect labour and childbirth. This is nothing, but a myth. Homeopathic medicines are FDA-approved, safe, non-toxic, and effective in treating common problems of pregnancy and childbirth. They help to improve the health of the mother as well as the child. According to Dr Bindu Sharma, MD [Hom], PGHom [UK], a senior homeopath, “Conventional medicine generally suppresses symptoms rather than treat the underlying cause, and when taken during pregnancy they may trigger several side-effects on the health of mother as well as the baby. Since homeopathy works with the body’s

HOMEOPATHY & YOU | OCTOBER 2014

natural defence mechanism, homeopathic remedies increase the probability of a healthy child.” She adds, “Homeopathy balances the whole system, thus allowing the body to heal itself.” HEALING WITH HOMEOPATHY Nausea, anaemia, backache, cramps, morning sickness, constipation, heartburn, diarrhoea, high blood pressure [hypertension], gestational diabetes [a condition in which women without previously diagnosed diabetes exhibit high blood glucose levels during pregnancy, especially during their third trimester], emotional distress etc., are some of the common complaints during pregnancy. A correctly-chosen homeopathy remedy can work safely and effectively to prevent or relieve such issues, and help the body heal without any toxic effects. For the best results, it is advisable to take homeopathic treatment under the care and guidance of an expert homeopathic doctor. Backache. For backache, a common problem in pregnancy, Rhus Toxicodendron or Kali Carbonicum is recommended. If you find that your back feels better after lying on a hard surface or by getting someone to press firmly into your back, Natrum Muriaticum is often effective. If your back is hurting due to injury or strain,

Arnica Montana is recommended, followed by Rhus Toxicodendron for severe pain. Breastfeeding. Some of the common problems that could make it difficult for women to breastfeed successfully include mastitis [breast infection], painful nipples and tardy milk flow. One useful remedy is Phytolacca for sore, cracked nipples, which hurt when the baby nurses. It is also useful for mastitis when there are painful lumps in the breast. Childbirth. After the baby is born, you can use homeopathic remedies to speed up the healing process for yourself and your baby. Aconite is useful for shock following the fear of the intensity of birth. Arnica often helps to relieve soreness, bruising and after-labour pains. It is also helpful to treat bruises in babies caused due to long labour or forceps delivery. Kali Phosphoricum is effective for mental exhaustion after delivery, when associated with headache and tiredness. Constipation. One of the troublesome and common symptoms of pregnancy, especially during the second trimester is constipation. This is due to added pressure on your bowels from your growing baby. Taking a good intake of fresh fruits and vegetables is vital to get relief. Senna is recommended for constipation. Lycopodium and Alumina

are also suggested, subject to one’s temperament and symptom-picture. Heartburn. Nearly half of all pregnant women suffer from heartburn [hyperacidity] in the third trimester of pregnancy. Eating small meals can help, as also avoiding difficult-to-digest fried, spicy or fatty food. Sulphur and Lycopodium are suggested to be useful in most instances. If you are suffering from a severe burning sensation behind your breastbone, Capsicum would help. Hormonal changes. Pulsatilla is often suggested for strong hormonal changes, especially for women who are moody and emotional. Such women often crave for a lot of affection and attention. They desire desserts or butter and may tend to overeat — this can sometimes lead to indigestion, nausea, or excessive weight gain. Pregnant women who need the remedy are often uncomfortable in warm weather, or have mood swings, and may cry at the drop of a thought. Nausea & vomiting. Nearly 80 per cent of pregnant women experience nausea and vomiting during the first trimester of pregnancy. The symptoms are often worse in the morning, but can occur at any time of the day. This is usually caused by hormonal changes and increased levels of progesterone. Some women may feel worse when their stomach is empty [It is, therefore, advisable to eat several small meals throughout the day]. The homeopathic remedy Symphoricarpus Racemosa is recommended for symptoms of nausea and vomiting. Cocculus Indica, a homeopathic remedy derived from the cockle flower, can be helpful for early morning nausea. If the smell of food triggers your sickness and eating does not help, Sepia Officinalis is effective. To ease digestive problems, like reflux, or heartburn [hyperacidity] and reduce nausea, Natrum Phosphoricum is suggested. Soreness & anaemia. Homeopathy effectively addresses soreness during pregnancy. Arnica is recommended for relief from soreness due to physical exertion and muscle strain. It is also useful for soreness after labour and delivery, and for haemorrhoids [piles] that may follow childbirth. For iron-deficiency anaemia, Ferrum Phosphoricum is useful. Varicose veins. Calcarea Fluoricum is useful for varicose veins. Avoiding long periods of standing is essential in pregnancy. If your legs are particularly uncomfortable, try Pulsatilla. If it does not help, try Carbo Vegetabilis — when there is associated burning pain in the rectum. Homeopathy is clinically safe and effective during pregnancy and post-childbirth. However, one should note that the remedies highlighted in the article are just a handful of the commonly used remedies for treating pregnancy issues. They have been presented only to create awareness regarding homeopathy’s safe, effective use in pregnancy. It is imperative for one to consult a professional homeopath for appropriate remedies and effective results. Self-treatment is best avoided.

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

HOMEOPATHY & YOU | OCTOBER 2014

GRIN AND BEAR IT

LAUGhTER,

THe BeST MedICINe ‘PERFECT’ FOOD “I hate to have to tell you this”, said the doctor in a sad, but compassionate voice, “that you have been unfortunately diagnosed with a highly infectious disease. We will have to quarantine you and you’ll only be fed cheese and bologna.” “That’s terrible!” said the distraught young man, quickly sitting down before he could faint. “I don’t know if I could handle being in quarantine… and the cheese and bologna diet… What’s with the cheese and bologna diet anyway? I’ve never had a diet like that before?!” “It’s not exactly a diet”, responded the doctor matter-of-factly, “it’s just the only food that will fit under the door!”

burned. “What happened?” asked the doctor. “Well,” the man explained, “my wife was ironing clothes, behind my chair, while I was watching TV. She put down the iron next to the phone and when the phone rang I answered with the iron.” “Gosh, that is terrible,” responded the doctor, “and what happened to your other ear?” “Well,” the guy responded, “Right afterwards, the phone rang again!” EASY DOES IT A lady came in for a routine physical exam at the doctor’s office. “Here,” said the nurse, handing her a urine specimen container. “The bathroom is over there, on your right. The doctor will be with you in a few minutes.” A few minutes later the lady came out of the bathroom with the empty container and a relieved look on her face. “Thanks. But, they had a toilet in there, so I didn’t need this, after all!” POLITE EFFECT I work as a paediatric nurse. I often have the painful job of giving shots to children. One day upon entering the examining room to give a shot, the little girl started screaming “No! No! No!” “Jessica,” her mother scolded, “that is not polite behaviour!” At that, the girl continued to scream “No, thank you! No, thank you! No, thank you!”

BLAME IT ON BILLY My four-year-old daughter had a terrible case of the flu; she was achy, had high fever and was terribly hoarse. After waiting at the doctor’s office for over an hour we were finally admitted to see the doctor. Following the usual routine of listening to her breathing and checking her ears, the doctor looked my daughter in the eye and said, “So, what would you say is bothering you the most?” Without skipping a beat, my daughter answered pronto, “Billy, he always breaks my toys!”

A ‘GOOD’ TURN A man and his wife enter the dentist’s office. The wife says, “I need a tooth pulled. No painkiller — I’m in a terrible hurry. Just pull the tooth as quickly as possible.” “You’re a brave woman,” says the dentist. “Now, show me which tooth it is.” The wife turns to her husband and says, “Open your mouth, dear, and show the dentist which tooth it is.”

SAME AGE The old man visited the doctor complaining of a terrible pain in his left leg. “I am afraid it’s just old age,” replied the doctor, “there is nothing we can do about it.” “It can’t be,” fumed the old man, “you don’t know what you are doing.” “How can you possibly know I am wrong?” countered the doctor. “Well, it’s quite obvious,” the old man replied, “my other leg is fine, and it’s the exact same age!” IRONED OUT A man entered the emergency room with his two ears

HOMEOPATHY & YOU | OCTOBER 2014

[Culled and Collated from the ‘Net]

CELEBRITY SPEAK

FAMOUS WORDS

I try a lot of homeopathy. I use Arnica for bruises and I remember using a homeopathy remedy when my girls were teething. Darcey Bussell, ace ballet dancer and judge, Strictly Come Dancing, on BBC I support the use of homeopathy. It is safe and cheap compared to usual drugs and can be very effective. Many homeopathic medicines are derived from natural things like the lovely cowslip [a flowering plant] which can be used for a number of health complaints, including eczema. More and more people around the world are using homeopathy and realising the benefits of a more natural approach to healthcare, which uses homeopathy alongside conventional care. Homeopathy can and should be an important part of our healthcare system.

provide me a cure. Since then I have followed a holistic approach to medicine and to everyday life. Debbie Moore, Founder of Pineapple Studios Given the research breakthroughs in the biological and clinical effects of nanopharmacology, it is a certainty that homeopathy has an evolving scientific foundation in the integrative medicine of the future. Kenneth R Pelletier, MD, PhD, Clinical Professor of Medicine, University of Arizona, US; and author of The Best Alternative Medicine: What Works? What Does Not?

I was seriously ill and it took me six months to recover. The whole experience was extremely unpleasant and I Dr David Bellamy, OBE, naturalist and author became interested in homeopathy and complementary I was fortunate enough to find homeopathy following treatments. the breakdown of my marriage. Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;d started to gain weight and was diagnosed with an underactive thyroid. John Illsley, star As a result of this I was prescribed thyroxine tablets performer of Dire which are meant to be taken for life. Wanting to avoid Straits, one of this, on the advice of a friend I turned to [Dr Sharma, the worldâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s most a well-known homeopathic doctor], who was able to celebrated rockbands

HOMEOPATHY & YOU | OcTObEr 2014

LIVING WELL: LIFESTYLE

THERE ARE TAGS OF WELLNESS IN YOUR DREAMS Dreams are reflections of the life that you experience internally and externally. It is through such imaginings that you associate with a deeper sense of self and come closer to recognising your full potential. By RYAN N HARRISON

reaming is a universal phenomenon, cutting across all social, economic and cultural lines. It is one of the few activities with which virtually every human being on the living planet engages on a frequent basis. Everyone dreams, even those who claim they do not. The truth is more likely that they simply donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t remember their dreams upon waking. This is fairly common and may actually be tied to a vitamin B deficiency. There are at least three states of consciousness: waking, dreaming and deep sleep. In the hours of waking consciousness, which make up the majority of our lives, we function in a dualistic, mostly logical, world where there are rules and consequences, actions and reactions, true and false. This is the state of consciousness in which we go to work, pay bills, read magazines, and play with kids.

HOMEOPATHY & YOU | OcTObEr 2014

Deep sleep, at the other end of the spectrum, is characterised by delta brainwave patterns that mark a lowered state of active consciousness. During deep sleep, we are more difficult to awaken. People who are roused during the state do not adjust immediately and often feel groggy and disoriented for several minutes after they wake up. In deep sleep, the mind is not engaged in using logic, symbols, or mental images. The dream state, however, is entirely different. Somewhere, in that medial mental space between alertness of waking consciousness and stillness of deep sleep, the dreaming mind is alive, formless, and active. Robert Van De Castle, PhD, dream expert and author of Our Dreaming Mind, lists the various theories behind the cause of dreaming. â&#x20AC;&#x153;They might be visits from an external

god, the wanderings of the dreamer’s soul, a shift in dimensional planes enabling the dreamer to peek into the future, the reworking of unresolved emotional tensions from the preceding day, or fallout from some temporary disturbance of the brain or digestive system.” Whatever the cause, whether physical, mental, emotional, spiritual or sexual, the fact of the matter is that dreaming happens, and when it does, people are moved, inspired, forewarned, and enlightened. Can you harness your dreams, using them to further your journey of well-being? Absolutely. Van De Castle explores and includes dreams that have found expression as works of art, dreams that stimulated people into important political action, dreams that prophesied and warned, and dreams that touched ultimately on spiritual truths, or moments of enlightenment. The human mind reaches beyond the physical structure of the brain and connects with a larger ‘consciousness’ in the universe. It has amazing capabilities. Dreaming is one of them, and this can be understood and used as a tool towards positive transformation and well-being. ‘Lucid dreaming’ and the psychodynamic processing of dreams are two of the gateways through which we can move to unlock messages of well-being for ourselves. Lucid dreaming is simply dreaming while knowing that you are dreaming. It is experiencing a dream with waking consciousness, and while this sounds contradictory, it’s possible. Within a lucid dream, the dreamer is able to access the conscious attributes of memory and willpower while still fully participating in the events and emotions of the dream. For example, a lucid dreamer may find herself standing before a river that separates her from something of great importance on the other side. Because she is aware that she is dreaming and that all things are possible in dreams, she may ‘create’ a bridge and walk across it, or decide to find a boat nearby that will take her to her heart’s desire. Either way, she is actively involved in the dream, rather than simply reacting to it. This makes all the difference. DREAM COACHING There are various ways to train yourself to dream with lucidity. • One of the most effective is to repeatedly ask yourself during your waking day, “Am I dreaming?” • Repeating this question to yourself during the day will encourage your mind to ask the same question while you are asleep and dreaming • When you find yourself answering “Yes, I am,” while in the middle of the dream, you will know that you are consciously aware of the dream • At this point, you may subsequently exercise some degree of volition within it. One of the aspects of lucid dreaming is that you can approach problems from your life from a different angle than the logical, dualistic point-of-view that typifies the

waking consciousness. For example, in your dreams, your mind may present your recurring problem with being overweight by using different images. Perhaps, it seems you are stuck in a large, unattractive building that you despise and which feels claustrophobic and overwhelming. If you ‘lucid dream,’ you would be able to re-decorate the building to your liking, knock down walls and re-model, or, perhaps, create a door where there wasn’t one before, so you could leave the building and find a more suitable place to live. Of course, it helps to understand the language of dreams, so you know what your dream symbols are telling you. This is where psychodynamics comes in. DREAM LANGUAGE The language of dreams is typically made up from a wide variety of information collected by your senses in waking reality and then presented in a new way during dreaming. Generally, there are two different kinds of dreams: literal and symbolic. Literal dreams present information that is directly parallel to your everyday life. For example, you dream that you’re looking at a clock that reads 8:15am, and you realise in your dream that you may have overslept and are late to work. This is waking to realise that this is, indeed, the case. While literal dreams are not uncommon, most dreams contain a wide variety of symbols, which are images or objects that can be translated to mean different things to different people. Most psychologists acknowledge that the symbols and events in dreams can be considered important markers for the growth and state of the inner landscape. Dream symbol dictionaries abound and, while many of them share some ‘definitions’ of common symbols and events, they may differ widely to the point that they become fairly useless. An interesting way to approach dream symbols is to consider them as aspects of yourself. In some psychodynamic processes, anything that turns up in a dream — be it a lover, villain, object, or action — can be understood as some kind of mental projection of the dreamer. For example, the angry dog barking at your back door in a dream may be recognised as your own feelings of unworthiness that are being repressed to the point that you are actually ‘hounding’ yourself because of them. If working with your dreams seems intriguing or motivating, you should seek out a qualified psychotherapist who can actively participate in your ‘dream work.’ Typically, such therapists will espouse the Jungian [analytical approach based on archetypes], Gestalt [the experiential ideal of ‘here and now’ and relationships with others and the world], Transpersonal [experiences in which the sense of identity or self extends beyond the individual to encompass wider aspects of humankind, life, psyche or cosmos], or Integral Psychological [lower, ordinary, and spiritual or transcendent states of consciousness] point-of-view.

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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LIVING WELL: LIFESTYLE

IT HELPS TO KNOW ABOUT FOOD LABELS Food labels can be confusing and sometimes tricky. Besides, we are not so inclined to spend time to understand what they actually mean and how to use them.

besity is a condition troubling millions across the world today. It is not uncommon, therefore, for several so-called diet food companies to powerfully market their products. People embark on such products at any given point in time, and at the drop of a new ‘formula.’ The problem is not so much with dieting, but ‘falling’ for hazardous fad diets, or ‘pills,’ in one’s eagerness to lose weight. Reading food labels correctly can be one of the ways to ensure that you pick up a product suitable for you — not one that is just greatly marketed. THE MIRACLE PRODUCT DOESN’T EXIST The first rule of healthy eating is you should know how to differentiate between a fad and healthy diet. This is the best possible way to achieve your diet goals that last long. The next thing you should do is not be lured by weight loss products that sound, or look, too good to be true. The

HOMEOPATHY & YOU | OcTObEr 2014

fact also is that there is no miracle pill or product that can make you look like a model or bodybuilder, instantly. Looking good and attaining whole body fitness emerges with a good deal of planned effort. Furthermore, before purchasing any product that claims to be a health or diet product, you should carefully read the nutrition label on it. After all, it’s easy to not eat calories than to burn them. READING FOOD LABELS Knowing what nutrition information to look for can help you make informed choices and avoid unnecessary saturated fat, salt, sugars and calories. The labels on most packaged food must meet strict requirements that include information for people with food allergies, food additive listings and food storage instructions. This is not always the case. While food labels carry different types of

information, the main thing to look out for when choosing healthy food is the Nutrition Information Panel [NIP]. ‘NIP’ IT FOR WEIGHT LOSS The NIP on a food label offers the simplest way to choose foods with less saturated fat, sodium, added sugars and calories, and fibre. It can also be used to decide how large one serve of a food group choice would be and whether it’s worth the calories. Beware of foods that look like a single serve, but actually contain several servings in one packet. Once we know the calories in a serve, we can weigh up whether our satisfaction of eating warrants the extra calories. SERVING SIZE The first place to start when you look at the nutrition facts label is the serving size and the number of servings in the package. Serving sizes are standardised to make it easier to compare similar foods. They are provided in familiar units, such as cups or pieces, followed by the metric amount, e.g., the number in gram. Calories count, so pay attention to the amount you consume. The serving size on the food package influences the number of calories and all the nutrient amounts listed on the top part of the label. Fat-free doesn’t mean calorie-free. Lower fat items may have as many calories as full-fat versions. If the label lists that 1 serving equals 3 cookies and 100 calories, and you eat 6 cookies, you’ve eaten 2 servings, or twice the number of calories and fat. In the sample label, one serving of macaroni and cheese equals 1 cup. If you ate the whole package, you would eat 2 cups. This doubles the calories and other nutrient numbers, including the Percentage of Daily Values as shown in the sample label.

alcohol. It is the overall calorie total that matters for weight loss, rather than the source. However, if fats or sugars are high on the list of ingredients, it is imperative to check how high the calories are in the amount you would eat. NUTRITION CLAIMS Some companies have nutrition content claims like ‘low-fat,’ ‘reduced salt’ or ‘high fibre’ on the food labels of their products. These claims can only be used if the food meets certain criteria. For example, with a ‘good source of calcium’ claim, the food must contain more than a set amount of calcium according to regulatory guidelines. While the nutrition content claims can generally guide you to healthier choices, it is important to check the claim by looking at NIP. For example, products carrying ‘low-fat’ claims may not be low in total energy when compared with similar products. Most advertisements and endorsements say, that, someone, most often a celebrity, has lost weight quickly — so can you. It is not so simple. Fad diets cannot work for everyone, as every human being is different. In fact, such diets can affect your blood sugar levels, or elevate your cholesterol. This is true of high-protein diets too. Such diets are not suitable for high blood pressure, or hypertensive, individuals. Eating a nutritionally balanced low-fat diet, followed by an appropriate fitness programme, is the best way to keep those unwanted fats, or flabs, away — and, also keep you fit. Making an informed choice while selecting a health product is, again, the best way to keep unwanted calories at bay. The next time you are out for shopping your favourite health food or drink, make sure you read the food label, or its nutritional information, carefully.

INGREDIENTS LIST All ingredients in a food product must be listed on the label in order — from largest to smallest by weight. You can use the label to spot foods that might be high in saturated fat, added salt or sugars, because these ingredients are usually listed as the top three elements. Also look out for other words on the ingredients’ list that flag ingredients high in saturated fat, added salt or sugars. Read with caution the expression ‘partially hydrogenated oils.’ These are actually trans-fats. Pay attention to ‘refined sugar.’ This holds greater significance in people who are on a special, or restricted, diet. Relate yourself with the sodium part with anything that reads “ium,” and sugar with “ose.” Example: sodium, and sucrose, lactose, fructose etc. Also notice when you read a nutrition label at the base of the nutrition facts section. This often catalogues the limits for total fat, saturated fat, cholesterol and sodium in a healthy calorie diet [<2,000]. To lose weight we need to consume fewer calories than our bodies use. The calories can come from one source, or a combination of fats, sugars, protein, carbohydrate, or

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LIVE & HELP LIVE

AYURVEDA FOR YOUR PET’S WELLNESS Body typing, or tridosha — vata, pitta and kapha — is a unique concept in ayurvedic medicine. A balance of the three doshas is essential for optimal health and wellness. This applies to animals as well.

BODY TYPE yurveda — meaning the science of life — Body typing, or tridosha — vata, pitta and kapha or, ancient Indian medicine is the oldest existing medical system. The history of — is a unique concept in ayurvedic medicine. A traditional Indian veterinary science, likewise, balance of the three doshas is essential for optimal dates back to the period of the Mahabharata health and wellness. This applies to animals as well. The tridosha are the three elements that [1000-900 BCE]. During the battle, the injured or By MANEKA diseased animals were treated with medicinal make up the mind and body. They are made up GANDHI plants. The Pandava brothers Nakula and with combinations of five elements: vata = ether Sahadeva were the sons of the Ashvins, physicians of the + air, pitta = fire + water, and kapha = water + earth. gods, and doctors of horses and cows. The three doshas control all biological, psychological, and For a long time in history, the same person treated both, physical functions of the body, mind and consciousness. all over the world. It was only during the 20th century that They also determine personality traits and physiological the divide between doctors treating human beings and structure. those treating animals widened and finally separated. A balance of the doshas is necessary for health. The Indian medical treatises like the Charaka Samhita, doshas can also be increased or decreased. For example, Sushruta Samhita, and Harita Samhita contained vata is dry, light, and cold; so any food, medicine, or prescriptions for animal care. The earliest and most behaviour that increases such qualities will increase vata important work is that of Shalihotra [2350 BCE], the son within the body. Conversely, oily, heavy, or hot factors of a Brahmin sage, Hayagosha, from Sravasti in Uttar will decrease vata. The permutations lead to different Pradesh. Shalihotra’s principal work was the Shalihotra constitutions. Vata governs movement in the mind and body. It Samhita, a treatise on the care and management of horses, with 12,000 shlokas in Sanskrit describing equine controls blood flow, elimination of wastes, breathing and the movement of thoughts. The related elements are air and elephant anatomy, diseases, cures and surgical and ether. Common characteristics of pets who have a procedures — and, veterinary ethics. Nakula wrote the predominantly vata constitution are as follows: Ashva-Chikitsa, a book on horse medicine. Sahadeva wrote Gavyayurveda on cattle medicine. Intelligence, quick-to-learn, but also quick to forget,

HOMEOPATHY & YOU | OcTObEr 2014

slender and small framed; walks quickly, tendency towards cold paws, discomfort in cold weather, excitable, lively, fun-loving, tendency to act on impulse, distracted easily, high energy in short bursts, tendency to tire easily and to overexert. Full of joy and enthusiasm when in balance, but stressed with anxiety when out of balance. Generally, the pet has dry skin and dry fur and cold paws. Typical health problems include high blood pressure [hypertension], earaches, anxiety, irregular heart rhythms, muscle spasms, lower back pain, constipation, abdominal gas, diarrhoea, nervous stomach and arthritis. The eyes may be sunken, small, dry, and active. The nails are rough and brittle. The shape of the nose is bent and sometimes turned-up. The production of urine is scanty and the faeces are dry, hard, and small in quantity. The sleep may be disturbed. Pitta is a force created by the interplay of water and fire. Pitta governs digestion, absorption, assimilation, nutrition, metabolism, body temperature, the lustre of the eyes, intelligence, and understanding. Psychologically, pitta arouses anger and jealousy. The small intestine, stomach, sweat glands, blood, fat, eyes, and skin are the seats of pitta. Animals with a predominantly pitta body type are of medium physique, strong, well-built. They are focused, competitive, assertive, self-confident, impatient, jealous, easily angered when stressed, and like to be in command. They develop aggression and pushiness when out of balance. Pitta types also have a strong appetite and get irritated if they have to miss or wait for a meal. Pittas are uncomfortable in the sun or hot weather; heat makes them extremely tired. Typical physical problems include rash or inflamed skin, acne [pimples], boils, skin cancer, ulcers, heartburn, acid stomach, bloodshot or burning eyes, other vision problems, anaemia and jaundice. The fur is soft and warm. The eyeballs are usually of medium prominence. The claws are soft. The shape of the nose is sharp. Their sleep is of medium duration, but uninterrupted. They produce a large volume of urine. The body temperature may run slightly high, and their paws tend to be warm. Kapha is water and earth. This dosha maintains body resistance. Kapha lubricates the joints, provides moisture to the skin, helps to heal wounds, gives biological strength, vigour, and stability, supports memory retention, gives energy to the heart and lungs, and maintains immunity. Kapha is present in the chest, throat, head, sinuses, nose, mouth, stomach, joints, plasma, and in the liquid secretions of the body, such as mucous. Animals that have a predominantly kapha constitution are easy-going, relaxed, calm , slow-paced, graceful, affectionate and loving, self-sufficient, forgiving, compassionate, non-judgmental, stable and reliable; faithful with a mild, gentle, and essentially undemanding approach to life. However, they can be possessive and greedy. They are physically strong with a sturdy, heavy build. They have a steady and enduring energy, are slow to learn, but never forget. They have soft and thick fur; large,

‘soft’ eyes and a broad chest. They tend to be overweight and may suffer from sluggish digestion, but have a strong resistance to illness. They don’t like cold, damp weather. Physical problems include colds and congestion, respiratory problems, such as hay fever and allergies. Also, atherosclerosis [hardening of the arteries]. They tend to consume less food, because of slow digestion. Stools are soft and may be pale in colour; evacuation is slow. Sleep is sound and prolonged. BALANCE HOLDS THE KEY The body types are a combination and permutation of the dosha present in them. In order to balance the changes that come through the environment, the animal owner may create a balance for their pet by altering his/her diet and lifestyle. In ayurveda, food is medicine. It is, therefore, imperative to consider the right ingredients, proportion, freshness and seasonality, and promoting balance with foods that counter or diminish the excess dosha. If you choose to change your pets’ diets, do so by slowly taking about three weeks to switch them over to a better alternative. In addition to the pet’s dosha, you should also consider whether the animal is a large or small breed, active or couch potato. Here are a few specific food recommendations, based on the vata, pitta or kapha elements. Vata [for example, Greyhound dog]. Vata dogs run cool and dry. You should avoid giving them beans, cauliflower, broccoli, peppers, and potatoes. Feed them warm foods instead, along with washed and pureed carrots and squashes [they can be quickly blanched and then pureed for enhanced digestion]. Avoid ghee as it is hard for the vata type to digest and can lead to pancreatitis. For pets experiencing digestive issues, they can be fed khichdi made with white basmati rice and mung beans. Spices can include black pepper, cumin and coriander, with a tinge of hing, or asafoetida. Pitta [for example, bull]. As pitta dogs tend to run warm, avoid foods that provoke warmth. They do well with cooling foods: dairy products such as cottage cheese, and even tofu. Fresh pureed veggies, such as leafy greens, are beneficial as well. Kapha [for example, overweight Golden Retriever]. For the heavy-set kapha pet, the diet should contain more wholesome foods such as fresh veggies. Avoid starch, grains and fat, and additives, such as molasses and corn syrup. Veggies should include carrots, squash and pumpkin; they should always be raw, washed and pureed. The most common herbs and spices for pets include turmeric, cumin and coriander powders for balancing digestion. Try dried or fresh ginger for vata pets, cumin and coriander for pitta, and turmeric for kapha. Take care not to overindulge, as a dog, weighing about 80kg, needs just 1/8 of a teaspoon of any given herb. For hyperactive dogs, the ayurvedic herb, ashvagandha [Withania Somnifera], has a calming effect.

Maneka Gandhi is the union cabinet minister for women & child development, animal rights activist, writer and environmentalist. She is well-known for her books in the areas of etymology, law and animal welfare. She lives in New Delhi.

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GOOD FOOD

CORN METHI PULAO: THE QUICK DINNER TREAT Back home after an endless day at work and kids want dinner as soon as possible? These are such times when you feel exhausted, but your family demands to be fed as quickly as possible. Don’t panic. Here is an easy-to-make recipe for filling one-dish meals that can be prepared in just a few minutes. A quick-fix pulao that can be made in the pressure cooker — in a jiffy!

By TARLA DALAL

• Preparation time: 10 minutes • Cooking time: 15 minutes • Makes 4 servings.

For serving • Fresh curd [dahi]

METHOD INGREDIENTS • • • • • • • • • • • • •

1 cup long grained rice [basmati] 2-4 black peppercorns [kalimirch] 12 mm [½”] cinnamon [dalchini] 2 cloves [laung/lavang] 2 cardamoms [elaichi] ½ tsp finely chopped green chillies ½ cup sliced onions ¾ cup finely chopped fenugreek [methi] leaves ½ cup sweet corn [makai ke dane] ¼ tsp turmeric powder [haldi] 1 tbsp butter 1 tbsp oil Salt to taste

• Wash the rice and keep aside. • Heat the butter and oil in a pressure cooker; add the peppercorns, cinnamon, cloves, cardamom and sauté on a medium flame for half-a-minute • Add the onions and sauté on a medium flame for 1-2 minutes • Add the fenugreek leaves and corn kernels, mix well and sauté on a medium flame for 1 minute • Add the rice and 2 cups of hot water, salt, turmeric powder and green chillies and sauté for a few seconds • Pressure cook for 2 whistles. Allow the steam to escape before opening the lid Serve hot with fresh curd. [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 |OCTOBER 2014

GOOD FOR YOU

THE HEALING POWER OF SLEEP It is during sleep that the body releases immune-boosting substances, while it gets detoxified and repaired.

Did you know that your morning cup of leep is often forgotten, ignored, and coffee might be keeping you awake at night? expended. It is occasionally longed for, but Caffeine can disturb sleep up to 24 hours after rarely studied. consumption. Alcohol can be an even more In fact, if you sleep less than six hours a night, powerful disrupter of sleep. Some insomniacs you have a 70 per cent chance of early mortality. complain that a few drinks put them to sleep, What’s more, since the body is literally starved By Dr RICHARD but that hours later they are wide awake. This is of oxygen, in certain sleep disorders — heart FIRSHEIN because alcohol relaxes the nervous system only disease and asthma — we should evaluate them temporarily. When consumed, it is metabolised; as part of routine medical treatment. it causes a strong ‘rebound effect,’ a few hours later. The good news is there has been exciting progress in The solution? Don’t use alcohol to fall asleep. Your diet the diagnosis and treatment of sleep disorders. You no may also contribute to your lack of sleep. Food allergies, longer have to haul your overnight bag to a clinic where for example, sometimes lead to excessive histamine you lie down in a laboratory with wires and electrodes production in the body, leading to a strange combination taped to your entire body, and spend the night being of fatigue, anxiety, and poor sleep. videotaped and monitored. Yes, millions of people worldwide report that they DANGER SIGNALS have some kind of sleep difficulty — from trouble falling Sleep apnoea causes people to literally stop breathing asleep at night to waking up too early. The interesting in their sleep. It also robs their heart, brain and lungs of fact is: even though sleep disorders can take many precious oxygen. The sleeper stops breathing as many different forms, they usually fall into a couple of common as 200 times a night, waking for an instant when his/her categories. oxygen-starved brain rings the alarm bell. The problem is that most people don’t have an idea that they are being INSOMNIA & APNOEA deprived of restful sleep. The two most common sleep disorders are: The most common symptom of sleep apnoea is snoring. • Insomnia [when you can’t fall asleep] Typically, it is the spouse — or, someone else — that • Sleep adjustment disorder [when you can’t synchronise notices the other person’s nosey bugle. your sleep to your work schedule]. Sleep apnoea affects innumerable people. It can cause Insomnia is terribly common, and can persist for prolonged daytime fatigue, sudden death from night-time months, and even years, leaving the person fatigued and heart problems, including headaches, depression, memory depressed. Physicians may prescribe sleeping pills. The loss, and severe mood swings. In addition, several people pills and sedatives deeply alter your sleep cycle, and who suffer from sleep apnoea tend to be overweight. actually shorten the amount of time spent in deep sleep. Diet too can be a contributing factor to sleep apnoea. We should remember that it is during deep sleep that the Carbohydrates, for instance, worsen apnoea since they body releases immune-boosting substances, while it gets produce carbon dioxide when metabolised. This increases detoxified and repaired. An occasional sleeping pill may the amount of air expelled. This, in turn, increases the be the answer for sporadic insomnia, but after years of amount of air breathed in. The outcome is snoring, dependence on sleeping pills, health can be subtly, but especially after a large meal. seriously damaged. Insomnia can be treated through a combined approach. To diagnose and treat insomnia, I first isolate the For example, supplements such as L-phenylalanine, underlying causes of the disorder in my practice. Some and herbs, such as chamomile, valerian and Passiflora common causes are certain conventional medications, stress, chronic fatigue, allergies, dietary problems, and Incarnata [passion flower], are known to relax the nervous hormone imbalances. Caffeine and alcohol can also be system. They, along with a proper diet and relaxation, the culprits, since they are both potent nervous system which I prescribe, for other underlying causes — such as stimulators. In other words, they can interfere with sleep. mental or emotional anguish and stress — or, the inability You should also watch out for vitamins, which, at times, to synchronise your sleep to your work schedule — can all act as stimulants, and certain herbs. be part of a customised treatment plan for sleep problems. 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 | OCTOBER 2014

FIGHTING FIT

5 GooD IDEAS for your HoME GyM A quality home gym, be it a simple set of dumbbells, a treadmill, or a multi-gym, takes you as far as you want to go. But, the commitment has to come from you and no one else.

not being reasonable. Reasonable goals, taken in ome Gyms. Ever seen someone with a small steps, will return the most quality results good physique who got it by working over time. out on a home gym? I have. I’ve even competed against people who became 3 Get the most from your home gym. Do your competitive physique athletes [bodybuilders] research. Now that you have established what by working out on a home gym. It can be done. By KErry you intend to accomplish with your home gym, Well, if this is true, why do so few do it? Why DuLIN it is time to decide what home gym equipment do most people who buy a home gym end up is going to get you there. As already cited, you selling it in a yard sale? will not develop big muscular arms on a treadmill. If your I will tell you why. It is for the same reason that most goal is to lose a few kg and improve your cardiovascular home businesses fail. They did not have a plan. health, then a treadmill, stepper, or rowing machine may Home gyms, similar to a home business, require be just what the doctor ordered. If you have decided to dedication. You may have all the desire in the world, but tone up a bit then you may find that a set of dumbbells if you fail to develop a plan, and then work it, you will is all that you need. You would be amazed to know what never see results. The following five steps which I have can be accomplished with a set of dumbbells and a little developed will help you get the most out of your home creativity. Your goals may be a bit more demanding, and a gym. When you follow them, your home gym won’t go complete home gym is in your future. Multi-gyms, as they kaput, or collect dust. are often called, may be based on free weights, pulleys, or tension rods; they also offer the advantage of being able 1 Write down your goals. What is it that you truly hope to work different muscle groups, with minimal change to accomplish by purchasing a home gym? Do you just over, all on the same machine. My own home gym allows want to lose a few pounds? If so, you really don’t need me to do lateral pulls, seated rows, incline bench press, home gym equipment to do it. Perhaps, a few small curls and squats — all from one convenient machine. changes to your diet and walking a mile a day will get you where you want to go. May be, you want to tone up 4 Buy quality. Quality home gym equipment will usually a bit? Now we are talking. Home gyms are a great way to outlast their less expensive counterparts and actually tone up loose and sagging muscles, and add a pleasing save you money in the long run. It will function more healthy appearance to your overall physique. Perhaps, smoothly reducing the risk of injury. It will require less you want to develop a good physique and are just too shy maintenance. It will have a more natural feel to it, and is to go to your local gym. All of these things are important far more likely to still be in use a year from now. and will determine the type of home gym equipment that you buy. You will not develop large muscular arms 5 Work your plan. Quality results take effort and time, on a treadmill or strong thighs with an ab machine. So, but they are worth the expense. When you have dropped determine what it is that you hope to accomplish with a another dress size, you will not regret the half-hour that home gym, and write it down. you have spent every morning exercising. When you are complemented on your biceps you will not regret 2 Make your goals reasonable. The perfect bodies and the multiple sets of dumbbell curls that got you there. beautiful people that you see on all the infomercials are When your abs begin to show, you will not regret the not reasonable goals. They are being featured in the diet, dedication and crunches that led you on your way. commercial for a reason; they are exceptional, and in My wife once told me that I am lucky to have a six pack. fact, most of them did not develop their physique from Perhaps, I am, but I have also found that the harder the equipment that is being advertised. If your goal is not that I work, the luckier I become. And, so it is with you, reasonable, you are in for disappointment. I’m not saying my friend. Recognise that this is going to take work, that you should not set a lofty goal, but there should be commitment, and time, so establish your goals, develop legs in the journey. You don’t eat a seven course meal a plan, purchase the right equipment and then stick to it. in a single gulp. If, for instance, your goal is to lose You will wake up a year from now ever so grateful for the 100kg, break it down into steps of 20kg at a time, and sacrifice. celebrate each victory. If your goal is to add an inch to This is it, my friend — there is no magic to a home your biceps, don’t measure them every day. If your goal gym. All it takes to ‘tick’ is your dogged commitment. is to compete in the next sports event, forget it, you’re 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 | OCTOBER 2014

CORPORATE WELLNESS

FROM BOREDOM TO CREATIVITY Boredom is a godsent opportunity to [re]discover yourself. It generates creativity; it also makes us positive and more responsible to taking on challenges in life.

By BADRINATH DURVASULA

t is a common grunt, “I am bored with life.” Most of us have heard this from our kids, spouse, colleagues and even ourselves. It is, indeed, a dilemma all of us, at some point of time, have expressed with a good reason. Be it a top-end executive, businessman, social activist, housewife, student, teacher, or any other, the list is endless. If someone has not come across such a ‘boring’ situation, it is obvious that s/he lacks perception. Change is the law of life. The inference is: if there is no change, life is not worth living. Change is deserving, sensitive and progressive. But, the big question is: do you welcome change by choice or boredom at work?

HOMEOPATHY & YOU | OCTOBER 2014

I often hear from employees, who are well placed, and working in exotic locations, projects, and from all age groups that they are bored with their present work. When they make this statement, it is wobbly but often emphatic. All of them have a strong reason to believe that it is high time they did something else than what they are presently engaged in. Most of them want to quit at the first given opportunity. Central to their expression of boredom is actually a need for change, a state or line activity different from what they currently do. The first question that pops up is — are they less engaged? The answer is a big no. They are all engaged

in highend tasks like project management, laying infrastructure projects for the country, the world and so on. From dawn to dusk, they are engaged, but the problem is they are not short of complaints. It is a different hypothesis if someone doesn’t have enough work to feel depressed about, but not when they are fully engaged. Well, this is a quirk, also a paradox no less. In my view, what they need is a change, a state that can satiate their urge to get additional value at work. This is because they are looking for a ‘big, good energetic kick’ in their work life. When the management is silent to such aspirations, dissidence brews in the aspirants and organisations would, as a consequence, may lose key managers. To look at it differently. Can we have soup without salt and pepper? Can we get the feel of a wholesome meal without a dessert? Can we lead a workcycle without a Sunday break? Can we spend a year without a holiday, or a break? Collectively, these are small, good ‘kicks,’ we look for and wait for. They give stimulus of a high order. They refresh, cleanse and energise our thought processes. Can we not extend such ‘kicks’ differently to work and make our working life cheerful? Is there a way to happiness at work and also life? There is — let us elucidate a handful of ideas that are worth practicing to stay tuned to the work we do, or engage in a meaningful enterprise. They will, cumulatively, make our life tangy, spicy and creative.

benefit from their outlook. Your network should also provide support, resources, sharing, and caring. One can see change in no time.

CHANGE YOUR DAILY ROUTINE The easiest way to kill boredom is to change your daily routine. Though it is no easy task, there is a clear reason why one needs to have a routine in the first place. By making little adjustments to one’s habits, one can make a huge impact on one’s positive moods. Practice reorganising your files and papers, add a table calendar, keep a family photograph on the pin board and place a small plant on the desk. They may look small, but they will bring in a great change. I have done it too with good effect. Even changing your routine outside of work, like what one does every morning or evening, can help a brighter outlook. If exertion at work is reason enough to feel bored, add some physical activities to your daily schedule like a few quick and simple exercises and get your blood flowing.

COMMIT ONLY WHAT CAN BE DELIVERED One of the most serious causes of work stress and unhappiness is failing to keep your commitment. Many employees spend more time making excuses for failing to keep a commitment, and worrying about the consequences of not keeping the commitment, than they do while performing the tasks promised. Create a system of organising yourself that enables you to assess your ability to complete a given commitment. Don’t volunteer if you don’t have the time. If your workload is exceeding your available time and energy, make a comprehensive plan to request your boss for help and resources.

BANISH NEGATIVE THOUGHTS If your preference is to be happy, try to avoid negative conversations, gossip, and unhappy people as much as possible. No matter how positively you feel, negative people have a profound impact on your psyche. Don’t let the negative spreads of the organisation, or your bosses make you feel low. Give a happy smile to the person who spreads negativity and walk away. Meet a happy person every day, one who has a positive attitude of life. Take time to get to know them. You might actually like and

YOU ARE YOUR OWN ARCHITECT Young employees keep complaining that they want to change jobs because their superiors are not doing enough to help them develop professionally. When I counter them on who is interested in their development, all they say that it is someone who is complaining about. Thus, all of us know that only we are interested in our development than anyone else. If that someone too cares about us, it is a bonus. But, bonus doesn’t come easy. Take charge of your own growth, ask for specific and meaningful help from your boss, but march with your own plan and goals. You have the most to gain from growing and the most to lose if you stand still. LOVE DOING IT YOUR WAY One may or may not love your current job and may or may not believe that one can find something to love in the job, but one can find out. Have the belief in you to discover something that you can love. Look at yourself, your skills and interests, and find something that you can enjoy doing every day. If you do something you love every single day, your current job won’t seem bad. You can always make your current job work or decide when it is time to quit your job.

BE RESPONSIBLE TO KNOW WHAT IS HAPPENING AT WORK There is a tendency for ‘bored’ individuals to complain that do not receive enough communication as to what is happening within their company, or their departments. Though true to a certain extent, it may not be deliberate to suppress information. It is sometimes the boss that feels that either it is not a piece of information, or something worth sharing. Hence, go all out and seek the information you need to work effectively — but, don’t crib, or gossip. Develop your information network and use it with prudence. Most important — be positive to make your life meaningful. Boredom is an opportunity to be creative and make the best of it to stay healthy.

Badrinath Durvasula is Vice-President and Head, Legal and Strategy, Larsen & Toubro Ltd, Mumbai. A much-sought after speaker and motivational ’guru,’ Durvasula holds master’s degrees in nuclear physics, law and management.

HOMEOPATHY & YOU | OCTOBER 2014

WHOLE & SOUL

ALL YOU NEED IS LOVE What this world needs is love. If we do not have love, what can we give? We simply remain a part of the problem.

By RADHANATH SWAMi

e sometimes think: why are people so greedy for land and property, or motivated by unabashed political desires? Sometimes, it’s hard to love people like them. We should, likewise, not hate the diseased. We should hate, or despise, the disease, because every living creature is our brother or sister — this includes all creatures… even a tiny insect. They are all nice brothers and sisters. If we cannot love even the most violent, cruel-hearted, demoniac, hateful and envious people, then we cannot love anyone. Just as iron is naturally attracted to a magnet, the soul of every living being is naturally attracted to love, god, who is like the Supreme Magnet. Then, why are so many people not attracted to god? Why do they engage in ungodly activities? Just as a metal covered by dirt, dust or rust, is not attracted to a magnet, the soul covered by lust, greed, envy, pride, anger and illusion is not attracted to god. When people are diseased, we should detest the disease, but we should love the one who is suffering from the disease. People are ruining their lives because their pure consciousness is obscured by illusion and ignorance. When it is night, it is difficult to see what is what, who is who, or where we are. Ignorance means you do not know. Ignorance is due to darkness, but as soon as the sun rises, everything is revealed as it is. Similarly, when that light which is within us is allowed to shine, all ignorance is dispelled. The world we are living in is a world of night. It is night-time… even during dawn. The sun of knowledge, god, is within our hearts. Then why are we in darkness? This is simply because we cannot perceive His presence. Just like when there

are dark clouds, you can also not see the sun. So the cloud of ignorance, which is the basic ‘root-cause’ of disease which creates all the symptoms of unwanted activities, unwanted thoughts and unwanted everything within this world, is covering the pure light of the divine within us. This is where yoga comes in. Yoga means to dissipate the cloud and allow the sun of love, the sun of peace, the pure light of the divine presence of the Lord within our hearts to shine and give light to everyone. The supreme occupation of all humanity is to give light to the world, not simply contribute to the darkness of this world. Of course, if you are not part of the solution, you are part of the problem. It is the duty of every human being — the highest expression of love — to purify our own hearts. If you do not have something, what can you give to others? You can only give what you have. What this world needs is not mere technology, or more scientific research. This world doesn’t need more food. There’s plenty of food, but it’s being dumped, wasted, hoarded, or buried under the ground. What this world needs is love. If we do not have love, what can we give? We simply remain a part of the problem. The purification of the heart is the most divine responsibility of every human being. When our hearts are pure like the sun, our love will shine in all directions for everyone. Does the sun discriminate that this is a dragonfly, a dog, a Native American, an Indian, a businessman, and the President of some country? No. The pure heart shines love in the same way as the sun. When we purify our hearts, we transcend all the boundaries of sectarianism, of selfishness. We can, in the process, be the well-wisher and friend of every living being.

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 | OCTOBER 2014

LIFe COACH

WHAt It tAKES to WEAR YoUR AttItUdE When you are at peace with who you are and want to be such, you repeat your typical and routine behaviours. If you want to be a better person, you choose better behaviours. When you want to be a happier person, you choose happier behaviours. The choice is yours.

By VINESH SUKUMARAN

ehaviour is defined as a response to some sort of stimulus, a range of actions, or mannerisms, of being or system and related behaviour to the natural way of doing things.

behave, the world gets a glimpse of your attitude. All the world sees is your behaviour and different people might interpret your behaviour differently based on their own attitudes, backgrounds and baggage.

1. What is your behaviour? One of the best definitions that I have come across in recent times is “A behaviour is anything you do.” If you stand erect, that’s behaviour. If you slouch when you sit down, that’s behaviour, If you brush your teeth every morning, that’s behaviour. The point is that behaviour is not just confined to anything you do physically; it also refers to anything you do mentally. If you say, “Oh my god” to yourself whenever you face anything difficult, that’s behaviour and if you go inward or get lost in thought when someone’s talking to you, that’s behaviour too.

4. You can choose your behaviour. One of the beautiful phenomena in life is that, with a little bit of effort, human beings can actually choose their behaviour. Even during intense periods of stress and uncertainty, you can choose to relax, provided you have practiced the behaviour of relaxation often enough. Even when people around you are screaming in excitement, you can choose to be composed and grounded.

2. Behaviour breeds behaviour. This means a couple of things. Firstly, if you do something once, it is easy to do it again. If you smoke once, it is easy to smoke again. If you fast once, it is easy to fast again. Secondly, if you do something with a person once, it is easy to repeat that behaviour with that person again. If you tell someone a secret and build trust once, you are likely to share more with that person. Finally, your behaviour may influence the behaviour of people around you and vice versa. For example, if you hang out with a group of fitness enthusiasts, your own alignment towards fitness is likely to increase. 3. Your behaviour mirrors your attitude. Your attitude is a mental evaluative statement about the world around you. For the most part, nobody gets to see what’s running in your head. However, the moment you

5. You can use your behaviour. The next best step for anyone who has realised that they can choose their behaviour is to work towards using it wisely. You certainly don’t want to choose the wrong behaviours of the past and, in turn, ruin the quality of your life. In fact, there’s an entire industry of personality and self-development based on the fact that you can choose your behaviour. It is nearly impossible to change your attitude and, at a deeper level, your entire personality directly. The door to such deeper levels of transformation is your behaviour. By demonstrating a new and desirable behaviour even just once, you increase the possibility and ease of being able to repeat that behaviour. And, if such behaviour is repeated often enough, your outlook towards situations where that behaviour is required will change — this is your new-found attitude. Several such attitude changes eventually change who you are as a person — this bids fair to your improved personality.

Vinesh Sukumaran is a Bengaluru-based applications specialist in behavioural dynamics and neurolinguistic psychology. A writer and coach, Sukumaran’s principal area of work is keyed to helping organisations and individuals apply neuropsychology to perform better at work and live more fulfilling lives.

HOMEOPATHY & YOU | OCTOBER 2014

POISE & BALANCE

TRANSCENDENT HARMONY Ajna chakra, the sixth chakra, represents the union of mind, body and spirit. Its importance is more spiritual than physical, associated as it is with imagination, visualisation, perception of light, transcendence, awareness and harmony, including direct mind-to-mind communication between two people.

communicates with the outside world. The tenth he ajna chakra is the last chakra that will be is ajna or agya chakra, which leads ‘upwards.’ It discussed in this series in H&Y. Ajna chakra represents the highest of the psychic centres is the tenth sense that leads directly to sahasrara, in human beings. Above this level are bindu and the source of all things. The first nine doors lead out to the material realms of being, whereas sahasrara, which are not chakras — they really the tenth door, ajna, leads more into the subtle come into the realm of the not describable. This chakra represents the union of mind, body realms. It is the gateway to the fountainhead of By PREETI MANDAWEWALA life. and spirit. Its importance is more on the spiritual level than on the physical level. It is associated INNER SHRINE & GLOW with imagination, visualisation, perception of light and The Sanskrit word, ajna, means ‘command,’ because it transcendence. This chakra is free from karmic factors and its activation helps us deal with factors which are represents the level of awareness and harmony where both personal and of group origin. The power to affect and it is possible for direct mind-to-mind communication alter others’ karma is enhanced by this chakra. The chakra between two people. It is the stage of sensitivity where individual minds can meet. It is the centre through which is also the only chakra that merges directly with cosmic the guru communicates with his disciples and gives them energy. commands. It is for this reason that the ajna chakra is The human framework is considered to be endowed with ten doors of perception. The first nine are the two called the guruchakra too. It is the doorway to the inner eyes, two ears, two nostrils, mouth, anus and sexual temple of subtle initiation. organs. These are the gateways through which a person This chakra has other names. It is called the ‘eye of

HOMEOPATHY & YOU | OCTOBER 2014

intuition,’ where the awakened aspirant can perceive events in the outer and psychic realms. The most common name is the ‘third eye’ — the psychic eye located between the two physical eyes. This is the eye that looks inwards instead of outwards. It is the eye that everyone has, yet few people know about and fewer actually ‘open’ and use. In a sense, most people are blind, since the third eye is never utilised to view the inner and deeper levels of being. It lies dormant. It is also known as divya chakshu [divine eye] in India — jnana chakshu or netra [eye of knowledge], for it is the channel through which the spiritual aspirant receives revelation and insight into the underlying nature of existence. It is even known as the ‘Eye of Shiva,’ because ajna chakra is the means through which consciousness [Shiva] filters down to individuality. Also Shiva is the epitome of meditation — this is directly associated with awakening of the ajna chakra. The ajna chakra is situated in the region of our invisible third eye, at the meeting place of all the three nadis — the bhrumadhaya [eyebrow centre]. Ajna lies directly and horizontally behind the bhrumadhya. Bhrumadhya is the centre where ida and pingla [nadis] end and merge with sushumna, which runs along the spinal cord in the centre. For this reason, the bhrumadhya is also called triveni. ASANAS All forward bending poses where the head is lower than the heart brings attention and energy to the third eye. Asanas, such as balasana, dwikonasana, vpareet karnee

mudra, yogmudra etc., help to awaken this chakra. Anulom-vilom and meditation are effective for this chakra. Trataka, the shatkarma, is also a powerful technique to awaken ajya chakra. TRATAKA Preparation. Light a candle and place it on a small table so that the flame is exactly at eye level when sitting. Sit in any meditation asana with the head and spine erect. Adjust the position so that the candle is at arm’s length away from the body. Technique. Close the eyes and relax the whole body, especially the eyes. Now open the eyes and gaze steadily at the tip of the wick. Try not to blink or move the eyeball in any way. The awareness should be so completely centred on the wick that the ‘body awareness’ is lost. After a minute or two, when the eyes become tired or begin to water, close them gently. Gaze at the after-image of the flame in the space in front of the closed eyes. If the image moves up or down, or from side-to-side, observe it and try to stabilise it. When the image can no longer be retained, gently open the eyes and gaze at the tip of the wick once more. Continue in this way 3-4 times. After completing the final round, practice palming 2-3 times. Time of practice. Trataka may be performed at any time, but the best time is dawn or dusk when the stomach is empty. Benefits. The practice makes the eyes clear and bright. It improves memory and helps to develop good concentration and a strong willpower. It activates the ajna chakra and is an excellent preparation for meditation.

COLOUR THERAPY & CHAKRA BALANCE All of us know how colours affect our moods and emotions. This is not just an everyday observation, but a view that has been well-documented by way of scientific studies. Sensitivity to colour is a major component of colour healing, or therapy. This form of treatment uses our sensitivity to colour to identify and correct imbalances in our internal bodily energy patterns that colour therapists relate to. Colour therapy, in essence, aims to harmonise and enhance our body’s energy centres, or chakras in Sanskrit, by using the seven colours of the light spectrum, which are said to stimulate our body’s own healing process. Ancient wisdom also suggests that each of the seven colours reverberates with one of the seven chakras. Colour therapists believe that since all matter is a form of energy, the application of energy to the body will have certain effects — both good and bad. Light, as all of us know, is a form of energy. Since it can be split into colours, it is possible for therapists to deliver this energy

at precise levels, and in easily controlled doses. Colour therapy is said to balance the chakras of the body. In simple terms, each of the spectrum colours is basically light of varying wavelengths. This means that each colour has its own particular energy — where each of the spectrum colours vibrates with the energy of each of the seven chakras in the body. Therapists also observe that a sick person is lacking in one or more of the colour types. By restoring the correct energy balance by way of appropriate colours to the body, therapists note, will correct physical and/or mental imbalance. You may think of energy or chakra centres as a set of cogs in the wheel, where each cog or wheel needs to move smoothly, and at identical speed for the engine to work appropriately. You get the point. Good, or optimal, health and well-being are achieved by a balance of all energies in the body — in other words, the smooth running of the wheels.

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. She lives in Mumbai.

HOMEOPATHY & YOU | OCTOBER 2014

MIXED BAG

‘THAT’ SOMETHING IN A NAME It is not just a question of what’s in a name, as Shakespeare said, for the best job in the world. There goes the sound, or ‘alarm bell,’ for the wrong name — ‘housewife.’

job. I cannot think of a more fundamentally ames are essential for the construction important job than a housewife’s. No job is of reality because, without a name, it more essential to decent human existence and is difficult to accept the existence of less likely to be replaced by the computer. There a person, an object, event, even a feeling, or are never any redundancies, only shortages. It is emotion. One such name is ‘housewife.’ a job performed for love, not money. I went to school in the 1950s, when we were The dictionary defines a housewife as ‘a almost brainwashed into believing that, for girls, By RUBY woman who keeps a house’ and an executive as being housewife was the ultimate aim in life. LILAOWALA a ‘person responsible for administration of an None of us wanted to become air hostesses or office, project, business or some other activity.’ fashion models, which in any case, was a new trend. Most of us were pushed into matrimony by parents The former implies a simple job; the latter an important position. Which of the two would you trust to bring up while we were still in college. I married while in college your children? too and my elder daughter arrived only a few days before I sometimes ponder whether it’d be appropriate to I received my law degree — first class. But, while other elevate the word ‘housewifery’ to a new political and girls were changing boyfriends, I was changing pampers. economic status, or the importance of an executive, While other girls talked of Western movies depicting outand describe your bargaining skills with the grocer laws, I talked of in-laws. Out-laws kill people with guns, as a ‘business meeting?’ Scolding your grandson as in-laws can sometimes ‘kill’ you slowly with emotional ‘disciplinary and grievance handling?’ Putting medicines abuse. Well, when you are young you tend to often out of reach of children, as ‘workplace safety audit?’ Or, internalise your pain for years — this could manifest in by the way, why don’t husbands say, ‘Oh, I don’t work.’ ‘I the form of health issues later in life. consult.’ ‘I am a lawyer,’ or ‘I’m a doctor?’ Remember, you are just a housewife. Can you imagine a day when you open the newspaper But, I digress. The pages of the calendar flip over to scan the housewife’s appointment page? But, sadly, and we are in 2014. My eldest grandson is married; life they are taken for granted. Some society ladies of ‘Pagehas ‘come’ full circle ever since he arrived on my 41st 3 fame’ raise their eyebrows up to their hairlines [or, may birthday. Also, since my college days, I wrote daily in be wig-lines] and exclaim through their ‘botoxed’ faces, my diary. Today, I write columns for Indian and foreign “What? You’re just a housewife?” newspapers on a freelance basis. But, I am still just a Names are human inventions, all right. But, the big housewife. question is — why does the best job in the world sound Times have changed. Today, most girls do not want like a wrong name? You tell me, because I’m just a to be just a housewife, but all boys want one, full time, housewife. or one who is moonlighting from her regular 9 to 5 paid Ruby Lilaowala, a former special correspondent for Gulf Times, is a writer, columnist, life-coach and counsellor. She lives in Mumbai.

HOMEOPATHY & YOU | OCTOBER 2014

THE WAY WE WERE & ARE

THE VEGGIE-MEAT CROSSOVER Hindu scriptures cite that ‘who should eat and who should not eat meat’ depends on the occupation of the person. There is more to the tenet than what ‘meets’ the palate.

any Indians, especially Hindus, do not eat meat on particular days. They also eat nonvegetarian foods like fish, chicken, mutton etc, but not beef. Furthermore, there are some people who are complete vegetarians and do not eat any meat. People who do not follow either practice often wonder why only a few days are selected for not eating non-vegetarian meals, or why eat all kinds of nonvegetarian food, but not beef. Let’s begin with the idea of vegetarianism first. For vegetarianism, the idea is of ahimsa, or non-violence. This is, for them, the ideal to be held in high regard. This means that one should not cause violence without need. So, killing animals for eating when you can survive without meat is seen by some as causing violence without any need. This is also the simple logic for one to be a complete vegetarian. ONE MAN’S MEAT IS... Hindu scriptures cite that who should eat and who should not eat meat depends on the occupation of the person. Most doctors today suggest that meat is not the only source of vital nutrients and should be consumed only by those who need more calories or do a lot of physical labour. If your occupation is of the sedentary type and you eat a lot of high-calorie food, you are bound to gain weight and invite illness or disease related to obesity. The mediaeval caste system of India was based upon the occupation of a person. Therefore, people from a particular sect who did more physical labour were allowed to eat meat. For example, the job of the Kshatriyas [warriors] was to fight the enemy and protect people. This required a lot of energy and, therefore, Kshatriyas were allowed to eat meat. Similarly, the farmer who performs a lot of physical work was allowed to eat meat. On the other hand, Brahmins who performed pujas, did prayers and other work requiring less hard labour were restricted from eating meat. It is also suggested that non-vegetarian products like meat and chicken are hard to digest. If you do not have enough body movement, it will be hard for you to digest the food — an invitation to several ailments. Now the topic ‘why non-vegetarian meal only on a few days’ a week. We, human beings, need only a small amount of meat to fulfil the nutritional needs

of our body, such as iron, vitamin B12 and other vital nutrients. But, we often get addicted to eating meat, which is not good for health, as too much of meat consumption can cause health problems like piles [haemorrhoids], kidney stones, colon cancer etc. HIDDEN DANGERS Studies show that people who eat too much meat are 20 per cent more likely to develop cancer, especially if they eat a lot of red meat. Pancreatic cancer, in particular, has been linked to heavy meat consumption. Meat also contains a lot of saturated fat and cholesterol, which can trigger heart disease. Processed meats often contain nitrate, a preservative that may be carcinogenic when heated to high temperatures during the cooking process. All meats may form carcinogenic heterocylic amines, or HCAs, during high-temperature cooking. Moreover, your kidneys work overtime to remove excess protein from your body, so eating too much protein can stress them out, leading to damage and even contributing to renal failure in some cases. High dietary protein levels cause your body to excrete more calcium, which can contribute to osteoporosis. Our ancients placed certain restrictions by assigning days to particular deities. The simple reason being human beings tend to follow rules more strictly when there are religious sentiments attached to it. Therefore, the consumption of meat only on a few days during the week was prescribed to ensure that one consumed a limited quantity and did not go overboard with meat consumption. When it comes to not eating beef, there are two tenets. The idea that cows — or, Mother Cow — are sacred comes from the fact that Lord Krishna was a cowherd and loved cows dearly. The people of His village loved Lord Krishna and, therefore, they did not harm His favourite animal out of respect for Him. This is being followed by Krishna’s followers till today. The more logical explanation comes from the benefits cows offer to mankind. They produce milk, and in ancient India [as is the case today] milk, apart from its consumption for nutrient value, was also utilised for the preparation of curd [dahi], ghee, butter, and other food stuffs. The idea of killing cows, therefore, for their meat is viewed as wasteful and inhuman.

HOMEOPATHY & YOU | OCTOBER 2014

SAVE MONEY, TIME AND EFFORT! It’s your prescription to good health and wellness... all through the year! ... Or, gift it to a loved one for good health and wellness all through the year!

Vol 1. Issue 12.

October 2014

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FITNESS EQUIPMENT

VERSATILE, YET EQUAL EFFECT The Lebert equaliser is a simple, portable, yet multi-purpose and versatile piece of strength training equipment. Suitable for all fitness levels — from the beginner to the advanced user — it has been designed for safe, effective workout at home, or gym.

ebert equaliser is a piece of equipment with two portable bars that enable users to do a variety of full body-weight exercises, such as a range of push-up variations, dips, chin-ups, rows, core work, or exercises that strengthen your back, lunges and squats. When the creator of this equipment, Marc Lebert, and his business partner noticed that the two bended bars standing side-by-side looked like an equal sign [=], they decided to name the product ‘Lebert equaliser.’ The name also sounds appropriate considering the two bars help you to exercise body parts equally. Each bar of the Lebert equaliser weighs about 3.6kg. They are 28.5 inches high by 25 inches wide and can support a load of up to 180kg of body weight. The bars can also be stacked together. Wherever, or anywhere, you need to have a strong supportive bar to rest upon or to push against, this is the equipment for you. The bars are versatile enough to be modified to suit any fitness level –– from the beginner to the advanced user. The equipment is used for cardiovascular training, muscle strength, endurance and stretching. Over 75 exercises can be performed on the Lebert equaliser.

THINGS TO DO • Warm-up before you workout • Make sure you are in the correct position for each exercise • Protect your back by maintaining good alignment at all times • When using the equaliser for the first time, consult a trainer for workouts suitable for you • Make note of the correct position for each exercise on a workout card

• Adjust the equipment properly • Start at a fairly easy level. In general, perform 3 sets of 10 repetitions for each exercise. Depending on the ease of execution, you can increase or decrease the resistance • Move your body through the entire range of motion. Lift and lower your body slowly and smoothly • Do not ‘lock’ your knees or elbows when extending your arms or legs • Exhale as you lift your body; inhale as you lower it. Keep your breathing even and smooth throughout the entire range of motion • T ry doing the moves to music. Not only does this set the rhythm and length for each exercise, but the melody you choose can help motivate and push you through the challenge • Stop if you feel any pain during your workout [A ‘burning’ sensation in the working muscle is fine, but joint pain is not] • Cool down after your workout. Stretching at this time is particularly effective, since the muscles are warm. After regular workouts with the Lebert equaliser, you will gradually notice an increase in strength for each exercise, both in the number of repetitions and the ability to perform the exercise slowly and with full range of motion. Other benefits include increased muscle tone, enhanced cardiovascular conditioning and flexibility. The only precaution you need to take is to make sure that you tighten the unit properly to ensure a stable and safe workout. You can achieve fabulous results from this tool. Besides, it is likely that you will use it for almost every purpose — be it weight loss, abs workout, or enhanced purpose for your triceps. HOMEOPATHY & YOU | OCTOBER 2014

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Top OF MIND

EASE YOUR ‘FREEZE’ WITH EXERCISE The exact cause of frozen shoulder agony is unknown, albeit the pain is suggested to be essentially due to increased ‘wear and tear’ of the joint. While medical treatment may be useful, exercise forms an integral part for effective recovery from the distressing condition. By EUSEBIO JASON FERNANDES

he shoulder is the most mobile joint in the body, while the collar bone [clavicle] forms the only bony link between the arm and the body. The shoulder is formed by the articulation between the shoulder blade [glenoid fossa of the scapula] and the arm bone [head of the humerus]. It is supported by various muscles and ligaments. While the shoulder joint forms the most mobile joint in the body, its mobility, however, comes at a ‘price.’ The shoulder is subject to varying forces of the muscles around it. This not only leads to increased ‘wear and tear’ at the joint, but also increased chances for impingement and instability at the joint. As a result, pain may be felt initially with movement, especially at the extremes, or all the time [resting pain]. The exact cause of the ‘frozen’ agony at the shoulder is unknown, albeit the pain is suggested to be primarily due to increased ‘wear and tear’ of the joint. This causes the capsule of the shoulder joint to thicken and form adhesions. Hence, the name: adhesive capsulitis. Adhesive capsulitis, also ‘popularly’ known as frozen shoulder, is a hallmark sign. It is represented by certain classical symptoms — inability to move the shoulder, along with pain, stiffness and swelling. Frozen shoulder presents with the following three stages: Freezing. A gradual increase in pain with movement — this may last for 6-9 weeks, so much so there is a visible decrease in movement due to pain.

Frozen. Pain may gradually improve, leaving behind a stiff shoulder. This phase may last up to six months, during which performing daily activities may be difficult, especially getting the hand behind the back. Thawing. The shoulder movements may normalise without treatment after two years. Apart from the use of appropriate medical treatment for pain and stiffness, exercise forms an integral part for recovery from frozen shoulder. Effective exercises would range from gradual stretching techniques to strengthening the shoulder muscles. Heat application to the shoulder before and after exercise also helps to combat pain. The following exercises often help to improve your shoulder movement, or concern: Shoulder forward flexion. This exercise can be done in standing or lying down on your back. The technique involves supporting the affected arm with the unaffected arm and slowly lifting both the arms as high as you can, while maintaining the elbows in a straight position. Hold the arms for up for 15-20 seconds and slowly lower them. Repeat 5-10 times. Cross over stretch. Lift the affected arm to about 90 degrees and gently pull it across the chest. Repeat 1520 times. Shoulder external rotation. This may be done while standing in the doorway with the arm by the side and elbow bent 90 degrees. Place the hand along the door and rotate the body away from the hand. Hold the stretch for 15-20 seconds. Repeat 5-10 times.

Eusebio Jason Fernandes is a graduate in physiotherapy with a master’s degree in applied physiotherapy from Sheffield Hallam University, UK. He is currently working with children having special needs. He lives in Goa.

HOMEOPATHY & YOU | OCTOBER 2014

HOME[O]PATHY

THE GOODNESS OF LITCHI Lychee, or litchi, is a delicious and juicy fruit. It has the goodness of hearthealthy polyphenols — nearly 15 per cent more polyphenols than the amount found in grapes, which is considered a top-notch polyphenol powerhouse.

weet, succulent and nutritious, litchi berries bring cooling effect on the human body and protect against several ailments. Litchi means ‘gift for loyal life.’ It surely lives up to its name. It has no saturated fats or cholesterol, but has good amounts of dietary fibre, vitamins, and antioxidants. Research suggests that oligonol, a low molecular weight polyphenol, is found abundantly in litchi — 66 calories per 100gm. Like other citrus fruits, litchi is an excellent source of vitamin C. 100gm of fresh litchi fruits provide 71.5mg or 119 per cent of the daily-recommended value. Litchi is also a good source of B-complex vitamins, such as thiamin, niacin, and folates. Litchi has a good amount of minerals, like potassium and copper. Potassium is an important component of cell and body fluids; it helps to control heart rate and blood pressure. Copper is required in the production of red blood cells [RBCs] Aids digestion. Litchi aids in digestion, improves appetite and cures heartburn [hyperacidity] as well as burning sensation in the stomach. It helps keep the stomach healthy; its astringent properties also make it effective for intestinal tract problems. Maintains healthy bones. Litchi is a rich source of phosphorus, magnesium, copper and manganese, which strengthen the bones. Fights cancer. Litchi has anti-cancer properties. The flavonoids present in its pulp help to fight cancer and other major diseases. It also contains flavones, quercetin and kaemferol, which are powerful compounds in reducing the proliferation of cancer cells. Litchi fruit provides remarkable anti-breast cancer properties too. Eases heart disease. Litchi normalises blood pressure and heart rate and protects against strokes and

HOMEOPATHY & YOU | OCTOBER 2014

coronary heart disease [CHD]. One glass of litchi juice daily normalises heartbeat. Litchi also contains good amounts of polyphenols, which promote heart health. The antioxidants present in litchis improve immunity, slow down the advancement of cataracts and alleviate cardiovascular diseases. Aids weight loss. Litchi is low in calories; it contains no saturated fats or cholesterol and is rich in dietary fibre which is imperative for people who want to lose weight. Nourishes skin. Litchi helps to nourish the skin oils and prevents acne [pimples]. It also refines the skin and eases dark spots. Hair benefits. A balanced diet is vital for good hair. Litchi, a good source of vitamin C, niacin and thiamin, is beneficial for your hair’s health. THE NUTRIENT DYNAMO Litchi is an excellent source of vitamin C, a vitamin that the body does not produce naturally. Consumption of foods rich in vitamin C helps the body to develop resistance against infectious agents and scavenge harmful pro-inflammatory free radicals. Litchi relieves colds, fever and sore throats. Vitamin C is good for the skin, bones and tissues too. Oligonol, the low molecular weight polyphenol, found abundantly in litchi has several antioxidant and anti-influenza actions. It also helps to improve blood circulation, reduces weight and protects the skin from harmful UV rays. Oligonol decreases post-exercise exhaustion, improves stamina and reduces facial aging lines and brown spots. Litchi, an excellent source of B-complex vitamins, also helps the body to metabolise carbohydrates, protein and fats. Litchi has a high level of beta-carotene too — it strengthens the immune system and improves liver function.

HEALTH HAPPENINGS between allergy and intolerance and, thus, help avoid incorrect diets which, under certain circumstances, may cause malnutrition. One of the most important milk allergens, the socalled beta-lactoglobulin, belongs to the protein family of lipocalins. Lipocalins possess molecular pockets which are able to accommodate iron complexes. Iron is bound to the protein by so-called siderophores. Lead author Franziska Roth-Walter and her colleagues show that an ‘empty’ milk protein, one without iron and siderophores, helps to activate Th2 lymphocytes. As a consequence, the production of IgE antibodies against the milk protein is stimulated. The patient gets sensitised and may develop an allergic reaction to milk. “Knowledge of the molecular structure of allergens,” as Roth-Walker notes “has contributed significantly to our conclusion about milk allergy. This is of enormous practical relevance.” As another investigator Erika Jensen-Jarolim explains, “One of the most burning questions we want to answer is: ‘Why are these milk proteins loaded to a greater or lesser extent with iron?’ The manner of keeping and feeding cows may be a factor involved in the phenomenon. Iron loading may depend on whether the milk is produced organically, or conventionally. This will be one of our major interests in the future. Lipocalins exist in all mammals. We assume that our conclusions will be applicable to the milk of other mammals as well.” COW MILK ALLERGEN IS REALLY ALLERGENIC Cow milk allergy occurs in children and adults. Scientists at Messerli Research Institute at the Vetmeduni Vienna, the Medical University of Vienna, and the University of Vienna, Austria, investigated what actually makes milk allergenic. A specific protein in milk known as beta-lactoglobulin is able to initiate an allergy only when being devoid of iron. When loaded with iron, the protein is harmless. The scientists discovered the same mechanism recently with regard to birch pollen allergy. Their findings, published in the journal PLOS One, help to decipher allergic reactions. Milk allergy is frequently confused with lactose intolerance — the two are entirely different mechanisms that occur in the body. People with lactose intolerance do not digest lactose properly because they lack an enzyme known as lactase. In the case of the potentially much more dangerous cow milk allergy, however, the body’s immune system attacks milk proteins, with its own IgE antibodies. According to statistics, about 2-3 per cent of children suffer from a genuine milk allergy. The formation of socalled Th2 lymphocytes is initiated in such individuals. Th2 lymphocytes contribute in great measure to the production of IgE antibodies to milk proteins. Hence, people develop an allergic reaction to milk. Not many adults are diagnosed with the disease. The allergy may cause swelling of the mouth and mucous membranes, diarrhoea, neurodermatitis [a type of eczema], and, in rare cases, even allergic shock. Precise diagnostic investigations help to differentiate

WOOD SMOKE POLLUTANTS & CVD Air pollution not only leads to regional climate changes in certain parts of the world, but it is also a major health risk factor. A new study suggests that black carbon pollutants from wood smoke may increase cardiovascular disease [CVD] in women. The study, published in The Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences [PNAS], was led by Prof Jill Baumgartner of McGill University’s Institute for the Health and Social Policy in Canada. China, in particular, has air pollution that exceeds health guidelines. Industrial emissions, motor vehicles and household use of biomass and coal fuels contribute to the excessive particulate matter in the atmosphere there. Nearly 50 per cent of Chinese homes use biomass and coal fuels for daily cooking and heating. Prof

HOMEOPATHY & YOU | OCTOBER 2014

HEALTH HAPPENINGS Baumgartner and her colleagues studied the effects of black carbon pollutants on women cooking with traditional wood stoves by measuring the daily exposure to air pollutants. 280 women from China’s rural Yunnan province took part. “China’s unprecedented economic growth is fuelling massive increases in industrial and motor vehicle pollution,” says Baumgartner. She adds, “700 million Chinese homes still cook with wood and coal fuels.” Though the Chinese government has set new air quality targets, Baumgartner says she and her team “wanted to identify the pollution sources that most impact human health to help inform these pollution control efforts.” To investigate, the team had the study participants wear air samplers that collected small particulate matter, which is linked to adverse health effects. The researchers then analysed the samples to identify the different pollutant types. In addition, the team measured the women’s blood pressure, salt intake, physical activity, body mass index [BMI] and proximity to highways. Baumgartner and her team found that black carbon pollutant exposure had the biggest impact on the women’s blood pressure — a major effect on cardiovascular risk. The team also found that the women who lived close to highways and were exposed to both wood smoke and traffic emissions had blood pressure three times higher than those who lived away from highways. REJUVENATING AGING IMMUNE CELLS Researchers from UCL [University College London] have demonstrated how the relationship between nutrition, metabolism and immunity is involved in the process of aging. Two new studies, supported by the Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council [BBSRC], as experts suggest, may help to enhance our immunity to disease through dietary intervention and help make existing immune system therapies more effective.

HOMEOPATHY & YOU | OCTOBER 2014

As we age our immune systems decline. Older people suffer from increased incidence and severity of both infections and cancer. In addition, vaccination becomes less efficient with age. In previous BBSRC funded work, Professor Arne Akbar’s group at UCL showed that aging in immune system cells known as T-lymphocytes was controlled by a molecule called ‘p38 MAPK’ that acts as a brake to prevent certain cellular functions. They found that this braking action could be reversed by using a p38 MAPK inhibitor, while suggesting the possibility of rejuvenating old T-cells using drug treatment. In a new study published in Nature Immunology the group showed that p38 MAPK is activated by low nutrient levels, coupled with signals associated with age, or senescence, within the cell. It has been suspected for a long time that nutrition, metabolism and immunity are linked. The new study provides a prototype mechanism of how nutrient and senescence signals converge to regulate the function of T-lymphocytes. The research was conducted at UCL, alongside colleagues from Complejo Hospitalario de Navarra, Pamplona, Spain. The study also suggests that the function of old T-lymphocytes could be reconstituted by blocking one of several molecules involved in the process. In a second study, published in The Journal of Clinical Investigation, researchers showed that blocking p38 MAPK boosted the fitness of cells which had shown signs of aging, while improving the function of mitochondria [cellular batteries] and enhancing their ability to divide. Extra energy for the cell to divide was generated by the recycling of intracellular molecules, a process known as autophagy. This highlights the existence of a common signalling pathway in old/senescent T-lymphocytes that controls their immune function as well as metabolism. It further underscores the intimate association between aging and metabolism of T-lymphocytes. As Professor Akbar says, “Our life expectancy at birth is now twice as long as it was 150 years ago and our lifespans are on the increase. Healthcare costs associated with aging are immense and there will be an increasing number of older people in our population who will have a lower quality of life [QoL] due in part to immune decline. It is, therefore, essential to understand reasons why immunity decreases and whether it is possible to counteract some of these changes.” The professor adds, “An important question is whether this knowledge can be used to enhance immunity during aging. Many drug companies have already developed p38 inhibitors in attempts to treat inflammatory diseases. One new possibility for their use is that these compounds could be used to enhance immunity in older subjects. Another possibility is that dietary, instead of drug, intervention could be used to enhance immunity since metabolism and senescence are nothing but the two sides of the same coin.”

fitness. They also found links between vascular health and brain function, aerobic fitness and brain function.

EXERCISE FOR THE HEART GOOD FOR THE MIND It would appear that aerobic exercise may do more than just preserve our cardiovascular health. It may also keep our minds sharp as we age. This was the conclusion of a recent study from Canada that found links between aerobic fitness and brain function in older adults. The findings were published in Neurobiology of Aging by researchers Dr Claudine Gauthier and others from the University of Montreal, Canada. As Dr Gauthier explains, “Our body’s arteries stiffen with age, and the vessel hardening is believed to begin in the aorta, the main vessel coming out of the heart, before reaching the brain. The hardening may contribute to cognitive changes that occur during a similar time frame.” Dr Gauthier and her fellow researchers studied a group of older adults and found the ones whose aortas were in better condition and who were aerobically fitter did better on a cognitive test. The researchers studied two groups of physically and mentally healthy participants: 31 younger people aged 18-30, and 54 older adults aged 55-75. They were interested in comparing not only the younger to the older group, but also making comparisons within each age group. All participants underwent physical and mental tests. For the physical tests, they worked hard on workout machines while researchers measured their maximum oxygen intake over 30-second periods. As for the mental test, they performed a Stroop effect task — a scientifically validated test used to measure cognitive ability. In the Stroop effect test, the participant is shown the names of different colours, such as red, yellow, blue, and so on, with each word printed in a colour that is not the colour meant by the word. Thus, red might be printed in blue, and yellow might be printed in red. The participant has to shout out the colour of the print, and not the printed word. The participants also underwent three MRI scans: one measured blood flow to the brain, another measured brain activity during the Stroop task, and the third measured the stiffness of the aorta. The researchers found evidence of age-related declines in brain executive function, elasticity of the aorta and cardiorespiratory

COGNITIVE IMPAIRMENT & STROKE Researchers from the US, Taiwan, and South Korea have found that the risk of future stroke is 39 per cent higher among patients with cognitive impairment than those with normal cognitive function. The study, published in The Canadian Medical Association Journal [CMAJ], reports that individuals experiencing mild impairment may begin to notice changes in cognitive functions, but can continue to go about their daily tasks. Severe impairment, however, can result in losing the ability to understand the meaning or significance of something and the faculty to speak or write. This may lead to the inability to live independently. Cognitive impairment is not caused by any one particular disease or condition, or limited to a specific age group. Alzheimer’s disease and other dementias — in addition to conditions such as stroke, traumatic brain injury, and developmental disabilities — can cause cognitive impairment. Indicators that a person has cognitive impairment include: memory loss, trouble learning new things, loss of concentration, frequently asking the same question or repeating the same story, not recognising people and places, having issues exercising judgment, such as knowing what to do in an emergency, changes in mood or behaviour, vision problems, struggling with making decisions that affect their everyday life, difficulty planning and carrying out tasks, such as following a recipe, or keeping track of monthly bills. Millions of people across the globe are living with cognitive impairment — a major contributor to disability and dependence. Stroke is the leading cause of longterm disability among adults. It is also the second leading cause of death.

HOMEOPATHY & YOU | OCTOBER 2014

SUPER FOODS

OF ORANGES & LEMONS The health benefits of oranges and lemons are immense. The tangy fruits are not only packed with the power of antioxidants, but also a host of beneficial wellness nutrients.

he tangy orange is more than a popular fruit. It not only tastes good, it is also succulent. There are different types of oranges — sweet, bitter and sour, so make sure to buy the variety you want. The sweet variety of orange is usually more fragrant than the others. The orange is an excellent source of vitamin C and flavonoids. One orange provides almost 100 per cent of the recommended daily dietary intake of vitamin C. When you eat a whole orange, it provides good dietary fibre, along with valuable bioflavonoids and anti-cancer agents. In addition, oranges are a good source of vitamin A, the B vitamins, beta-carotene, amino acids, pectin, potassium, folic acid, calcium, iodine, phosphorus, sodium, zinc, manganese and iron. A power-packed fruit, oranges have over 170 different phytonutrients [nutraceuticals] and 60 flavonoids — most of which have been shown to have anti-inflammatory, anti-tumour and blood clot-inhibiting properties, as well as strong antioxidant effects. A combination of high amounts of antioxidants and flavonoids in oranges makes them one of the best fruits to promote optimal health and well-being. FACT-FILE • The optimal intake of vitamin C [1,000-2,000mg/day] is known to halve the risk of heart disease • Studies have shown that a flavonoid, called hesperidin, in oranges lowers high blood pressure • Vitamin C stimulates white cells to fight infection, while building a good immune system • Drinking orange juice daily can significantly reduce the risk of calcium oxalate stones in the kidneys • Antioxidants in oranges help to protect the skin from free radical damage; they also delay the signs of aging • Oranges lower the incidence of peptic ulcers and, in turn,

HOMEOPATHY & YOU | OCTOBER 2014

the risk of stomach cancer • The abundance of polyphenols in oranges has been shown to provide protection against viral infections. Who does not love the piquant freshness of lemon? Lemon is not only an indispensable part of our everyday culinary needs, it is also a part of a wide canvas — right from juice, lemonade to pickles, to name just a few of its all-encompassing delights. The health benefits of lemon are immense. Lemon soothes throat infections, constipation, dental problems, cholera and fever, including internal bleeding, joint pain, burns, obesity, respiratory disorders, and high blood pressure. Its use in hair care, especially for dandruff, and skin care is well-known. Lemon, thanks to its antioxidant effects, also helps to strengthen our immune system, cleanse the stomach [detox], and is evidenced to be an effective blood purifier in popular parlance • Lemon juice is suggested to be effective against kidney stones. The American Urological Association reports that lemonade, or lemon juice, could possibly reduce the occurrence of kidney stones, by forming urinary citrate, which prevents the formation of crystals. It is also believed to reduce strokes • A refreshing drink, lemonade keeps us calm and cool in the wake of stressful or emotional storms of everyday life. Lemon is packed with good amounts of vitamin C, vitamin B, phosphorous, proteins, and carbohydrates. It contains flavonoids, which have antioxidant and cancerfighting properties. Lemon is also said to prevent diabetes, constipation, high blood pressure, fevers, indigestion and other health problems. Drinking lemon juice with olive oil is said to ease gallstones too. New research suggests that lemon provides a protective cover, or ‘insurance,’ against inflammatory disorders, such as arthritis. Lemon is also used as a ‘stain-cleaner,’ thanks to its ability to eliminate stains on clothes. The aroma of lemon can repel mosquitoes and other insects, no less.

READ. WATCH. LISTEN. EXPLORE SIMPLE STEPS TO POSITIVITY Confident people are positive, focused, motivated, resilient, willing to take risks and eager to stretch. The Confidence Factor is a practical, no-nonsense guide to building self-confidence. It may not transform your life overnight, but aims to give you the tools you need in your quest to achieve success. The book engages the reader for personal and professional effectiveness; focus on strengths; be more assertive; maximise potential; ‘up’ one’s confidence and self-worth; develop ‘courage’ muscles; communicate effectively with difficult people; and, become more productive and strategically enabled.

The Confidence Factor Annie Ashdown Jaico Publishing House pp 252 Price: `250.00

KNOW THYSELF Atmajnana Yajna is a set of 4 DVDs. It is enriched by a running commentary [with sub-titles] and an introductory audio book, which presents the broad framework for the yajna. Atma is the imperceptible inner self. Jnana is perfect understanding, or realisation. Atmajnana is selfknowing and self-realisation. Yajna means self-sacrifice, or self-abnegation — a means to realising the atma. A great intro — to know oneself from the inside-out.

Atmajnana Yajna [4 DVDs + Audio Book] Sankara Bhagavadpada Yogi Impressions Price: `1,800.00

THE LEISURE-PLEASURE ADDRESS The Kovalam Beach Hotel is located on the famed Kovalam Beach, Kerala, God’s Own Country. It overlooks the clear azure waters of the Arabian Sea and is enveloped by a unique historic architectural style. The hotel caters to leisure travellers with its classy accommodation, designed with sublime creativity and elegance, juxtaposed by shades of brown and

white, laced with natural wood facets. Call: +91-47124 83200. E: info@kovalambeachhotel.com

BENGALI DELIGHT Bhojohori Manna in Kolkata is named after a Bengali song rendered by the legendary singer Manna Dey. The song is about a mythical cook who travels the world to hone his culinary skills. The restaurant, which has branches in Mumbai, Bengaluru and Pune, is well-spread-out with indoor and outdoor dining areas. The interiors are pretty and laced with the classy Kolkata mosaic, and replete with kantha table tops, including

pictures of Baul singers draping the wall. The menu features a fine blend of Ghoti and Bangal dishes, among other delights. A meal for two costs approximately `1000.00. Website: www.bhojohorimanna.com

HOMEOPATHY & YOU | OCTOBER 2014

CELEB FITNESS

SOHA ALI KHAN’S WELLNESS MANTRA

g about writing a book — “How to have a well-toned body without starving yourself.”

“I do 100 suryanamaskaras,” says actress Soha Ali Khan, who maintains a well-toned body by doing yoga, playing badminton and climbing the stairs when she’s bored of the gym. We bring you the pretty actress’ fitness regimen, by courtesy of celebfitness.blogspot.in. HER EXERCISE REGIMEN My exercise regime is not fixed. Whenever I get bored, I change my form of workout. However, I maintain an active lifestyle, so I can afford not to hit the gym every day. Usually, I head to the gym for about two weeks daily for an hour. Since I have always been fit, I don’t stress too much on cardio. Moreover, I get bored running on the treadmill. Instead, I prefer doing light weights and, sometimes, use the elliptical machine. During the other two weeks of the month, I keep fit by playing badminton, climbing stairs for 20 minutes and doing yoga. I do 100 suryanamaskaras. HER STRENGTHS Many people say that I have a flat stomach. I don’t do any crunches, or go on a diet for it. My upper body is fine. I, therefore, pay more attention to my lower body. I believe I have good arms. Also, I do not have weight issues as my weight has been almost constant, fluctuating from 49-50kg for the past 15 years! HER WEAKNESS I think I have these Bengali cheeks. Since I have a petite frame, my cheeks tend to stand out. No matter

HOMEOPATHY & YOU | OCTOBER 2014

how much body weight I lose, I can’t lose weight on my cheeks! I have tried doing facial exercises and making funny faces in front of the mirror, but it hasn’t really helped. HER DIET I’m a non-vegetarian who doesn’t eat red meat. I eat a lot of fish and chicken, besides soups, vegetables and fruits, like papayas, strawberries etc. I don’t believe in dieting, but I eat a balanced meal. Also, I’m not one of those folks that totally avoids carbs. I have carbs in the form of whole grains and such products. But, I have two vices: I’m addicted to diet cola and chocolates. I’m not into protein shakes, but I do take vitamin supplements for three months and again after a gap of another three months. I do this because taking too many vitamins can strain the kidneys. HER FITNESS ROLE MODEL I don’t have a fitness role model because everybody has a different body and metabolism. I believe in competing with myself. HER IDEAL CELEB BODY [MALE] If I were a man, I’d like to have a body like Brad Pitt in the movie, Fightclub. HER IDEAL CELEB BODY [FEMALE] Shilpa Shetty and Bipasha Basu.

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